The Janome 2212 is a high-quality, beginner-friendly, mechanical sewing machine sold at a great price. It comes with a stitch selection dial and stitches length and width adjustment.
Features like these ensure ease of use. It also has a free arm and drop-feed which make it suitable for all types of sewing. User-friendly and lightweight, 2212 is the ideal unit for beginners.
If you’re looking for a cheap, robust sewing unit that’s priced under $150 at most places, look no further than Janome 2212. It’s small, compact and loaded with 12 built-in stitches.
There’s also a 4-step buttonhole. From setup to finishing your first project, this is a unit which combines control, quality, simplicity and affordability into one compact package.
Already interested in buying this entry-level, reasonably-priced sewing machine? Let’s take a look at the technical specifications before we dive into my detailed Janome 2212 review.
Technical Specifications
| Type: | Mechanical |
| Dimensions: | 14.09 x 11.57 x 5.90 inches |
| Machine weight: | 13.22 pounds |
| Carrying handle: | Folding type |
| Thread take-up a level: | Split type |
| Spool pin: | 2 retractable type (vertical) |
| Hook type: | Vertical oscillating hook |
| Bobbin winder: | Push/pull type |
| Maximum zigzag width: | 5mm |
| Maximum stitch length: | 4mm |
| Warranty: | 25-year limited warranty |
Table of Contents
Janome 2212 Review
Janome 2212 is a simple but elegant sewing machine.
If you’re looking for a basic-looking but powerful sewing machine, look no further than this model. It has a white body with the buttonholes and stitches listed in light green.
The machine is about the size of a toaster oven. It’s also lightweight so you can easily carry it around and take it with you on your travels. It weighs only 13 pounds.
However, don’t let this fool you into thinking that it’s a weak, flimsy sewing machine. On the contrary, it has a heavy plastic exterior and metal interior. Therefore, it’s durable.
When unboxing this sewing machine, the package is loaded with a bunch of accessories that make your work a bit easier. You will get a clear instruction booklet on how to use 2212.
You will also receive a needle set, foot control, bobbins, blind foot, buttonhole foot, seam ripper, zipper foot, and a vinyl dust cover. There’s also a screwdriver intended for maintenance.
However, don’t worry, Janome 2212 doesn’t require high maintenance, just regular cleaning. Let’s take a closer look at some of the key features which make this sewing unit so special.
12 Built-In Stitches
This machine comes with 12 stitches including a buttonhole stitch, a straight stitch, a decorative stitch, a reverse stitch and a zigzag stitch.
All of the stitch patterns can be found on the top of the machines. There’s also a stitch selection dial that allows you to select your desired stitch pattern.
There’s also a dual next to the stitches. This dial allows you to change the width of the stitch up to 5mm, and the length up to 4mm.
Two-Needle Positions
The Janome 2212 sewing machine comes with the possibility to insert the needle in 2 different positions according to the task you’re working on.
Having the ability to insert your needle in one of 2 positions means that the pattern will stay smooth on fabrics of various weaves, thickness, and weights.
Therefore, you won’t jam up or skip a stitch despite the fabrics you’re working on. You can sew on wool or cotton without issues. It’s one of my favourite features.
Drop Feed Dog
This feature allows for free-motion quilting and stitching.
It moves automatically to the upward position when your sewing machine is working and it must remain in position while sewing but should be down when the unit isn’t in use.
To access it, remove the accessories box and open the bobbin door.
Reverse Stitch
You can access the reverse stitch through a button on the top of the machine just above the needle. It’s intended for sewing in reverse but also secures your stitches.
Needle Plate
The needle plate isn’t simply where you put your project when you’re prepared to begin with sewing. It can also assist you in measurements.
The needle plate on 2212 has seam guides and measurements carved on both sides of the needle. This is a very helpful feature for everyone.
Lighting
2212 also comes with a lamp that lights up the whole workspace. It’s pretty bright so you will be able to see what you’re sewing and make sure you’re making a straight line.
Warranty
The Janome 2212 sewing machine is covered by a 25-year limited warranty. It includes a 1-year warranty on replacement parts which doesn’t include electrical parts.
Janome 2212 Pros and Cons
This beginner-friendly, basic machine from Janome isn’t heavy on stitch options or frills. However, it’s an ideal choice for new sewers of all ages. It’s lightweight and compact.
And allows beginners to learn the basics of sewing without being overwhelmed by computerized options or scary speed. The price is reasonable and the construction is sturdy.
It seems as 2212 is the perfect sewing machine for beginners. However, even 2212 has negative sides. Let’s summarize both the positivities and negativities of 2212.
Pros:
Versatile
With this sewing machine, I have tried a lot of different fabrics and concluded that 2212 can handle silk, cotton, satin, linen, velvet, polyester, blends, knits, taffeta, rayon, and upholstery.
No Need to Remove Fabric
If you encounter thread jamming in the sewing unit, there’s no need to take off the fabric. Or whatever material you’re working on to get to the problem.
You can reach the bobbin or the needle, since it’s a front-loader without having to move your material, skipping the opportunity of messing up everything.
Great for Beginners and Professionals
2212 allows newbies to experience adjusting tension manually. It also allows them to experience various functions on a user-friendly but feature-rich unit.
This way, when they move to a more complex or advanced machine, they understand how things work. It will make their progress easier and less time-consuming.
Also, experienced sewers will realize that the Janome 2212 sewing machine comes with enough stitches and extras that they won’t feel constrained or bored.
Easy Installation
Although the set up of this sewing machine is easy, you will also get a user manual on how to install your new sewing buddy properly. Or watch YouTube videos online.
They can help beginners or anyone who’s experiencing a difficult time determining how to set up or use the sewing machine. The user guide is well-written and informative.
It also contains information about matching appropriate sewing needles and threads with fabric weights which is great. This content could be helpful for experts as well.
Built-In Thread Cutter
I adore this feature! It’s one of my favourite features in units along with the automatic needle threader. It’s such a shame that 2212 doesn’t have an automatic needle threader.
The built-in thread cutter isn’t something you can’t find on sewing machines these days. Therefore, it’s a regular but still valuable feature that will save you time and speed work.
Cons:
Difficult Speed Control
A few people complained that the unit can’t be started at a slower speed. While the pedal manipulates the speed, the unit doesn’t start initially without a higher speed.
Therefore, some users find the speed control difficult and uncomfortable to work with. And I completely understand them. If you’re a beginner, this could be a problem.
Can’t Handle Any Fabric
Although Janome 2212 is a super-versatile sewing machine, it can’t handle all the fabrics in the world. If you want to sew fur, leather, twill, canvas, skin, rubber, super-dense fabrics, plastic or multiple layers of fabric, consider other sewing machines on the market.
Jams
People also complained about the machine jamming for many reasons. The thread would get stuck, the bobbin can flop, the fabric can get caught in the feed, or the unit would stall.
Some people found that if they changed the needle position, got the thread tension right or used 2212 a bit, it performed better while others still found this to be a frustrating issue.
Small Workspace
Some people complained about the small workspace. As I already mentioned, 2212 seems ideal. But it’s not. Every sewing unit has its flaws. And the lack of space is one of 2212 flaws.
Small tasks would fit into the unit easily. However, if you were working on something bigger, it wouldn’t fit. You can try to work your way around the small workspace but it can be annoying.
If you’re looking for a sewing machine that allows you to complete basic, smaller projects, 2212 makes a perfect choice for you. Otherwise, you might need to search for other solutions.
No Automatic Needle Threader
If you’re a fan of automatic features like me, you will be disappointed to learn that there’s no automatic needle threader on 2212. This is bad for people with bad eyesight including myself.
How to Use Janome 2212 Sewing Machine?
To make it even simpler to utilize, this sewing machine has a mechanical structure. Meaning, new users won’t have to put effort into finding their way around more complex features.
Most professionals recommend that newbies start with a mechanical sewing machine before moving on to something more complicated such as a modern computerized sewing machine.
With only 12 built-in stitches, this sewing machine has a simple switch feature which will help you switch between the stitch patterns. Just turn the dial until you locate your desired stitch.
The threading of the system is also easy because it has an automatic stitch feature that takes care of this task for you. Just press down on the level and let the unit do the rest of the work.
If you’re a beginner and you’re confused, you can always rely on the user manual included with the unit. It’s well-written and contains all the details you need to get your unit started.
How to Thread a Janome 2212 Sewing Machine?
Made with beginners in mind, this unit makes it as simple as possible to start a sewing project. If you’re a beginner, just put the bobbin fists. This is done with the push/pull bobbin winder.
The vertical oscillating bobbin decreases potential jams as well. As I already mentioned in the cons part of this sewing machine, there’s no automatic needle threader which is a big downfall.
At least for me because I have bad eyesight. If this isn’t an issue for you, you can thread this sewing unit manually. It’s fairly easy to thread and if hams do happen, they’re easy to solve.
The main cause for thread jams isn’t getting the needle in the proper place but once you master how to turn the wheel and put the needle properly, you won’t experience any problems.
Who is Janome 2212 Made for?
The Janome 2212 sewing machine isn’t intended for only one type of sewer. Advanced users won’t get a lot from this machine, especially if they’re focused on more complex projects.
However, newbies and intermediate users will find a lot to love about this sewing machine. For starters, it’s user-friendly, beginner-friendly, and has a powerful motor. It’s also super-versatile.
If you’re a business owner, consider other sewing machines. This particular machine wouldn’t be a smart investment for business owners. It’s not suitable for complex projects as well.
How to Take Care of Janome 2212?
Janome 2212 is the kind of unit that doesn’t require much maintenance.
However, it still requires regular cleaning every once in a while. If you clean the race hook right after you complete your projects, it will perform well always.
Wipe the head of the unit with a dry soft cloth. You won’t have to carry your unit to repair professionals. But you need to oil it. Not always but when it’s needed.
Regular maintenance is needed if you use your sewing machine for long hours.
Regular cleaning and oiling is the key to longevity. Solving the problem of needle breaking, bending, and getting stuck in the fabric is also easy.
This is a type of sewing machine that’s not meant to be utilized in a tough and rough manner. You need to work it properly.
The needle might bend or completely break while working. However, this only occurs when you perform with improper tension.
The needle can get stuck in the fabric if the fabric is too dense and if you’re performing on slow settings. However, it won’t happen if you figure out what fabric this machine can handle.
If you’re a beginner, then this sewing machine is undoubtedly an ideal sewing machine for you. It’s ideal for basic sewing projects.
Where to Buy Janome 2212 Sewing Machine?
Janome is a popular brand that left its mark in the textile industry thanks to the high-quality machines it produces. They’re loved worldwide. Therefore, they can be easily found.
You can find Janome 2211 in supermarkets such as Target or Walmart. However, shopping online has its benefits. If you buy 2212 at Amazon, you will get extra goodies and accessories.
Sewing Machine Plus also has good deals. If you buy this machine online, you will get the warranty with your purchase. Beginner-friendly machines cost less than $400 but you can find 2212 for less than $150.
FAQ
Conclusion
Janome kept 2212 very simple and basic. However, they still decided to include multiple useful features. These features make sewing a pleasant experience, especially for beginners.
The 12 built-in stitches are enough for beginners to experiment but not get overwhelmed. Also, the one 4-step buttonhole is easy to install and utilize. Janome 2212 is beginner-friendly.
The extra-high presser foot lift and free arm can be appreciated by advanced users. Therefore, Janome 2212 is suitable for experienced sewers as their backup sewing machine.
What I like most about this sewing machine is the reasonable price. You can purchase this model for less than $150. It’s great for those who want to take their sewing machine to sewing classes.
If you’re looking for a durable, powerful, and user-friendly sewing machine, look no further than 2212. It makes a great choice for passionate beginners who want to explore the sewing world.
Small inconveniences like jamming can be easily solved. If this isn’t a deal-breaker for you, purchase the Janome 2212 today. Hopefully, you find my Janome 2212 review fun and informative.
Have you ever used this sewing machine or know someone who did? If so, please share your thoughts in the comments below! I would love to hear your opinion on this Janome model.