Are you new to sewing, or are you hoping to upgrade from an older machine to something better? Either way, you may find the perfect match here. Let’s review two popular sewing machines from Brother and Janome to see which one is the best for you and the projects you want to do.
Brother Computerized Sewing Machine CE1008
Brother’s CE1008 has one hundred pre-programmed stitches, more than the average sewer will ever need. Eight of those stitches are one-step auto-size buttonholes, too. There are even more features that reveal that this sewing machine is designed to be very easy to use, even for beginners. But it also has functions that delight advanced sewers, too.
To begin, the CE1008 will help you start your project right away because it has both a top drop-in bobbin and an automatic needle threading system. Plus, stitch selection is clicking the one you want. Then, if you sew clothing, you’ll enjoy the free arm. It makes stitching collars, cuffs, and sleeves straightforward.
But if you love to quilt, you’ll find that the 7-point feed dogs smoothly handle layers of fabric. You can also drop the feed to do free motion quilting. And the built-in LED light will help you see your work in progress.
No matter whether you prefer garment construction or home decoration projects, you’ll find that the CE1008 comes with a variety of presser feet ready to go. It comes with several including a buttonhole foot, zipper foot, button sewing foot, overcasting foot, monogramming foot, blind stitch foot and zigzag foot. Just make use of the onboard storage compartment to keep them handy.
The only downside for beginners using the CE1008 is the foot controller. There is no other way to manage the speed other than this pedal. But with a maximum of 850 stitches per minute, even beginners can quickly master this machine.
More features of the Brother CE1008 Sewing Machine:
- Comes with a 25-year limited warranty
- Includes other accessories like twin needles, bobbins, and more
Janome 15312 Hello Kitty Easy-to-Use Sewing Machine
It’s hard to resist a cute machine like the Janome 15312. The Hello Kitty design calls attention to the fact that it’s made for beginner sewers. And much about its specifications point to the fact that it’s not as advanced as the Brother CE1008. You may also find that it has an unusual mix of user-friendly and advanced features.
For example, there are fifteen built-in stitches, one four-step buttonhole maker, and four presser feet. That’s a lot less than the Brother machine offers, but also a lot less confusing to a novice.
Since there is a 3-piece feed dog system, the Janome 15312 isn’t as well-equipped to handle thick layers, but you can raise the presser foot to an extra high position. You can also adjust the length of the stitches up to 4mm and use the reverse lever to reinforce a seam. There is also a removable free arm that allows you to work on sleeves and cuffs.
When you prepare bobbins for use, the winder automatically prevents overwinding. But do be aware that the front bobbin drawer isn’t see-through. And you’ll also need to control thread tension manually. Combined with the vertical spool holder, a novice sewer will need to stay aware of problems like breakage and running out of thread.
More features of the Janome 15312 Sewing Machine:
- Comes with a 25-year limited warranty
- Top speed is 860 stitches per minute
- Includes zipper foot, blind hem foot, all-purpose foot, and buttonhole foot, plus other accessories like needles and bobbins
Recommendation
While both of these sewing machines are marketed to beginners, the Brother CE1008 seems to have the most user-friendly features like automatic needle threading. It also offers lots more stitches and a more powerful feed dog system. You can also use it for free motion sewing.
Meanwhile, the Janome 15312 is cute but basic. If you want to learn to manage functions like thread tension, buttonhole-making, and needle-threading, it will give you reasons to practice. While it has a free arm and an extra-high presser foot lift, it comes with fewer accessories, fewer stitches, and a weaker feed dog system.