There are some features I love about Janome 49018 and there are certain things I hate as well. To me, this machine is a mixed bag.

Janome 49018 Computerized Sewing Machine Main Features

• 18 built-in stitches
• Speed control slider
• Programmable needle up/down
• Locking stitch button
• Extra high presser foot lifter

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Janome 49018 Review

Sewing Machine Reviews Recommendation Level : MODERATE

When I first saw Janome 49018, I felt it was quite affordable but it turned out to be not as affordable as it looks. We will talk about the affordability later. Now let us talk about what 49018 packs in features. This is a beginners sewing machine. It has 18 built-in stitches and 3 one-step buttonholes. The backlit LCD screen looks good and is easy to understand. Directional buttons are provided right next to the screen for easy stitch selection and adjustments like stitch width and length. Maximum stitch width that can be set is 7mm and stitch length is 5mm.

Janome 49018 comes with sewing start/stop button and speed control slider which lets you sew without the foot pedal. Programmable needle up/down and locking stitch buttons are the premium features you get on this machine. Programmable needle up/down lets you stop the needle in up/down position depending on whether you want to pivot or remove the fabric. This is a feature that is essential for quilters. With locking stitch button, you can lock the stitches so that they don’t come off quickly. A separate reverse sewing button is also provided.

The auto declutch bobbin winder will stop winding the bobbin once it is full (a nice feature but common in most modern sewing machines). The bobbin is top drop-in type with clear cover, this gives you an additional advantage as you can keep an eye on the bobbin thread supply. The needle plate has measurements and angle markings for accuracy. The automatic needle threader is a huge time saver. Janome 49018 doesn’t come with auto tension, the thread tension needs to be adjusted manually.

For ensuring consistent stitch quality Janome has included a 7-piece feed dog on this machine. Once you remove the storage compartment, the machine is ready to do free arm sewing. This is essential for sewing cuffs and sleeves. Drop feed option is provided for free-motion quilting. Sewing multiple layers of fabrics is not an issue on this machine, thanks to the extra high presser foot lifter. You can categorize Janome 49018 as a lightweight sewing machine, as it weighs just 12.5 pounds. So this machine won’t be a bad choice for those who want to attend sewing classes.

Usability

The easy to understand user manual really helps. The machine is very easy to set up, beginners will find it very easy. The stitch quality is great. The straight stitches are as perfect as you can get. Janome New Home 49018 is one of the quietest machines around. You can easily work on it while your kids are asleep, no issues whatsoever. Even though this is a lightweight machine, it is sturdy enough prevent vibrations at high speed. It doesn’t move around the table.

Limitations

The included softcover is not that great, there is no hardcover as well. So you will have to spend couple of dollars for it.

The bobbin winding motor seems to act up under heavy use. Under normal use, it won’t be an issue.

The biggest bummer of this machine is its price, especially when you can get other Janome machines with few more dollars.

Pros

• Portable
• Easy to set up
• Quiet
• Good stitch quality

Cons

• Slightly notchy bobbin winder
• Expensive

Is It Worth Buying ?

It depends on the price. Currently, it seems to be over priced by at least $25. This is more apparent when you can get computerized  Janome DC1050 with 50 built-in stitches for few extra dollars. I am not trying up sell here. If you feel that 18 built-in stitches are enough for you, then Janome 49018 won’t be a bad choice at all. Even then, I don’t quite feel that it is a machine for heavy use. I feel DC1050 would be a better choice any way.