Janome Jem Gold 660 Mechanical Sewing Machine

Pros: lightweight, portable, powerful, free-arm sewing

Cons: brief instructions, can't lower feed dogs

The Bottom Line: This is an excellent machine at a terrific price -- a true gem! (Review updated January 26, 2008)

Review: A quilting friend told me about the Janome Jem sewing machine. I own a Bernina 1260QPE, which is a terrific machine ... but it’s heavy! The Janome Jem is lightweight at only 11 pounds and is easy to carry to sewing workshops. I’ve owned ...

Pros: Perfect stitches, great bobbin winder, sturdy & compact

Cons: None

The Bottom Line: If you want a machine that makes creativity nearly effortless, buy the Janome Jem. It's plain and sturdy but you will fall in love with it.

Review: I love this machine because it is small, simple to operate and as dependable as a loyal dog. I bought it for quilting and the 1/4 inch quilt foot is marvelous--but it's great for every other kind of sewing. Sometimes the simplest machines are the best...

Pros: Easy to thread, lightweight (it weighs 11 pounds, less than my purse), great price.

Cons: It is a bit loud, but who cares...it does exactly what I need!

Review: A friend has the Janome Jem 660 and has happily used it for 4 years. I wanted a lightweight mechanical sewing machine to take to Project Linus blanket-making sessions, and also being able to store it in my car and not worry about weather conditions. I ...

Pros: Lightweight & easy to use

Cons: Won't do heavy duty work

Review: Janome Jem sewing machine: I got this little machine as a gift from my mom, who is an experienced seamstress and I'm sure she did a lot of research before buying. It's a very easy machine to use and seems to work great, except that I have major...