The performance of Janome FM725 is satisfactory, even though there are slight issues like needle breaking.
Janome FM725 Needle Felting Machine Features
- 5 needle punching unit
- Finger guard
- See through presser foot
- Free arm
- Easy clean lint box
Janome FM725 Review
Sewing Machine Reviews Recommendation Level : MODERATE
First of all, let me be very clear about one thing. Janome FM725 is not a sewing machine, it is a felting machine which fuses one type (or more types) of fabric into another cloth. This creates unique color combinations and texture which cannot be achieved by embroidery or applique. Hand-felting requires a lot of time, but a felting machine cuts the time into half, as it uses multiple needles simultaneously. FM725 uses 5 barbed needles to mesh fabrics together. The machine does not use any thread or bobbin.
Along with the standard 5 needle unit, you will also get a single needle unit (corresponding needle plates are also included). There is an optional changeable needle unit with which you can use needles between 1 and 5. However, it is a separate purchase. You can change the needle in a flash. Janome has given due importance to safety as well. FM725 is equipped with a needle guard to protect your fingers. The free arm capability gives you the much needed flexibility. The free arm removable unit has a built-in storage compartment as well.
The lint box on the front of the machine is very easy to clean. Just open the box and remove the lint, that’s it. The see through adjustable presser foot is a good addition. You can see your project without any difficulty. The height of the presser foot can be adjusted to accommodate multiple layers of fabrics. Bright working light is provided for working in the dark. The powerful motor can punch 900 stitches per minute. Janome FM725 is a lightweight machine. It just weighs 10.1 lbs. The workspace measures to W 6.5″ x H 4.7″. It has 25 year limited warranty.
Usability
The performance of Janome FM725 is good. However, you will break the needle somewhere down the line. So you must get the optional changeable needle unit, so that you can change the individual broken needles. If you are really careful you won’t break any.
Limitations
The light needs to be brighter, until then exterior lighting is the way to go.
The price is slightly on the higher side, especially when you consider that there are only 5 needles max.
Is It Worth Buying?
Overall, Janome FM725 is a good felting machine. An alternative you can look at is the Simplicity Deluxe, which has 12 needles and is much more cheaper than this machine. Simplicity Deluxe is one of the popular models in US (among felting machines).