Founded in 1921, Janome, which translates to “snake's eye” in Japanese, has woven its way through the fabric of the sewing industry for over a century. Its moniker, inspired by its groundbreaking round bobbin design, hints at the company's commitment to innovation. Yet, like all giants in any industry, the path wasn't always smooth, and the balance between tradition and innovation wasn't always easy to strike. Here, we chart the rise, challenges, and influence of Janome in the sewing machine realm.
Pioneering Days: The Round Bobbin
The shift from the traditional oval bobbin to Janome's round bobbin design was a significant step forward for sewing efficiency. However, skeptics questioned its necessity and longevity. But as history would have it, this design gradually gained traction and is now a standard in many modern machines.
A Legacy of Firsts
Computerization
In 1979, Janome introduced the Memory 7, which was the first computerized sewing machine for home use. This leap made intricate and complicated patterns accessible to the everyday seamstress.
Programmable Functions
In the 1980s, Janome further expanded the horizons of sewing enthusiasts by introducing machines with programmable functions, allowing users to save stitches and patterns, a feature that became a game-changer in the industry.
Embroidery Machines for Home
While embroidery wasn't new, having a machine at home that could do it with such precision was. Janome led this change, bringing professional-quality embroidery to the home sewer.
Robotic Machines
Moving into the 21st century, Janome did not rest on its laurels. It introduced the Memory Craft 10000, a sewing machine that seamlessly integrated sewing, embroidery, and quilting — and it did this with a level of automation that had previously been unheard of.
Diving into the Digital Age: Not Without Controversy
The 1979 introduction of the Memory 7, Janome's first computerized sewing machine for domestic use, was a pivotal moment. This machine brought complex patterns within the reach of everyday users. But it wasn't without its critics. Purists believed that this automation detracted from the art of sewing.
Moreover, the 1980s saw Janome wading deeper into digital waters with programmable functions, allowing users to save and repeat stitch patterns. While many hailed this as revolutionary, others voiced concerns over potential tech glitches and the loss of manual skill.
Embroidery at Home: A Game-Changer?
Janome's commitment to bringing professional features to home users was further highlighted by its foray into domestic embroidery machines. The reception was mostly positive, but there were concerns. Some critics argued that while the machines simplified the process, they couldn't replicate the nuance and artistry of hand embroidery.
The 21st Century and Beyond: Automation and Community Building
With the launch of the Memory Craft 10000, Janome combined sewing, embroidery, and quilting with a degree of automation that many had not seen before. However, the integration of such advanced tech did raise questions about durability and longevity.
Outside the realm of pure machinery, Janome has actively fostered a sense of community. While their machines have often been at the forefront, their investment in workshops, training sessions, and online resources has not gone unnoticed. Still, some argue that while these resources are valuable, they can never replace traditional apprenticeship-based learning.
This was quite interesting. I still own my Janome Memory Craft 8000, my first embroidery machine – and the first embroidery machine by the sound of the article. I now have a Janome Memory Craft 12000 which I love, hopefully it will last me. I can’t afford to update, but the newer ones don’t have enough to tempt me thank goodness
I bought a Janome 3 yrs ago. My biggest mistake ever.After 2 wks, I totally disliked it. I used it, but kept going back to my old faithful Brother. This year I started having trouble with the machine. Took it in to be cleaned,etc, and was told the tension was not good shape. And the back of my sewing would bunch up full of a tangled threads. Took it to another dealer, who sells Janome and the outcome is not good. Told him to try and fix, so I can sell and never see it again. Found out others have had problems with Janome machines after a couple of years.
I love Janome. They are true workhorses with consistently beautiful stitches. My first was a serger in 1992. It still has the prettiest rolled hem of any serger I’ve owned (I currently have 5). In 1993 I got their Memorycraft 5000 with embroidery capabilities. I still keep it as a spare, but have upgraded since.
When I was a home-ec teacher, I silently cursed many other brands in my classroom. Every time a machine was replaced, I always opted for Janome.
I have a Memory Craft 7500 which I bought in the 1992 for £799.00, a huge amount for me at the time. It has been in constant use ever since and never lets me down. I recently had it serviced at my local sewing machine shop and mentioned I was thinking to upgrade to a more modern machine. However the engineer persuaded me to reconsider as the newer machines weren’t so well made or reliable! It has been a very good investment over the years and continues to sew beautifully.