Finding the right sewing machine can be hard with so many things to consider when deciding which one responds to your needs. Also, there’s a wide selection of units in the market.
You have to think about bobbin size and if you prefer a built-in bobbin winder. You also have to consider what you will be making. Are you producing clothes with a lot of different knits?
Or you prefer sewing quilts and curtains? Maybe you’re into both. If you’re searching for a solid sewing machine that can handle anything you throw at it, consider the DC5100 machine.
It’s a computerized sewing machine made by Janome, one of the most popular and trustworthy brands on the market. Janome DC5100 is one of the greatest heavy duty sewing machines.
DC5100 is made with heavy-duty tasks in mind. With this computerized model, you can do any work like quilting or home decor. This sewing machine packs a bunch of advanced features.
It’s loaded with a speed control slider, prearranged buttons, a backlit LCD screen, 167 built-in patterns, upper-level feed system, drop feed, reverse stitching and a lot of other capabilities.
5mm is the maximum stitch length and 7mm is the maximum stitch width. If you’re looking for a heavy-duty unit with a hard covering and bobbin winding to disengage a clutch, look no further than this unit. It’s one of the best Janome sewing machines made with avid crafters in mind.
Let’s take a closer look at the features, performance, pros and cons of Janome DC5100 before you make a decision. Without further ado, let’s dive into my objective Janome DC5100 reviews.
Machine Specifications
| Type: | Computerized |
| Dimensions: | 12 x 20 x 17 inches |
| Machine weight: | 24.4 pounds |
| Machine speed: | 820 stitches per minute |
| Automatic needle threader: | Yes |
| Thread cutter: | Manual |
| Built-in sewing stitches: | 167 |
| Reverse stitching: | Yes |
| Maximum stitch length: | 5mm |
| Maximum stitch width: | 7mm |
| Locking stitch button: | Yes |
| Warranty: | 25-year limited warranty |
Table of Contents
Janome DC5100 Reviews
The Janome DC5100 is one of those go-to computerized sewing units after you have improved your skills and outgrown your beginner-level sewing machine.
It’s one of the greatest computerized sewing units which have the greatest features that you can get for the price. It will help you sew with ease and proficiency.
DC5100 is made in such a manner that it can stop automatically. Additionally, it’s loaded with a numeric trackpad and a backlit LCD screen with adjustable lighting.
The Janome DC5100 heavy-duty sewing unit has all the qualities a professional sewer can desire. It’s the features they need to complete all kinds of sewing projects.
You can complete any project with ease including scrapbooking, garment sewing, quilting, home decor, etc. You will get 167 built-in stitches with 5 automatic 1-step buttonholes, memory for 50 patterns, and a locking stitch button. You will enjoy the wide selection of stitches.
This sewing machine packs all of the features you expect only from a high-end unit, enabling sewers to work with coolness and accuracy. Let’s summarize the key features.
The Bobbin System
The full rotary bobbin is made in the sewing machine so that it saves the thread winding time and allows users to complete their sewing projects without any interruptions.
The Built-In Stitches
The Janome DC5100 computerized sewing machine provides 167 built-in stitches that assist in stitching differently such as home decors, fashion and decorative sewing, etc.
The Buttonhole
I like this Janome model because it’s advanced but still easy to use. It’s loaded with convenient features like the 5 1-step buttonholes. You can make them with a single step.
The Needle Threader
The automatic needle threader is one of my favourite things because it prevents eye strain. It also saves time. Automatic threading is perfect for sewers with poor vision like me.
The Free Arm
The free arm capability is also included to allow sewers to make small openings from any type of fabrics. It’s perfect for sewing cuffs, sleeves, and other small, hard-to-reach places.
The Presser Feet
The extra-high presser feet is super useful in stitching stubborn fabrics or multiple layers. Therefore, this unit is suitable for heavy-duty tasks. Moreover, you will get different presser feet.
The Slider
The Janome DC5100 computerized sewing machine comes with a slider which assists the user to control the speed. This is great for absolute beginners who prefer to start at lower speeds.
The Reverse Button
There’s also a reverse button which is the most important of the machine. You can sew backwards and forward at the beginning and end of a seam to prevent the stitching from unravelling.
The LCD Screen
The backlit LCD screen makes stitch selection easy. It’s also perfect for making adjustments to the width and length of your stitches. There’s also an auto-tension system for flawless stitching.
Detailed Review, Usability, Pros and Cons
The Janome DC5100 computerized sewing machine is made with advanced sewers in mind. If you want a high-quality sewing machine, opt for Janome. This brand never compromises on quality.
Most of their sewing machines aren’t budget-friendly but they’re worth every penny. This unit has been present on the market for a while and gained a good reputation among advanced sewers.
It offers 167 built-in stitches including lettering. You will receive 95 decorative and utility patterns, and 5 1-step buttonholes. You will also get 67 letters. The keyboard makes the stitch selection easy.
All you need to do is press the corresponding numbers. There’s a stitch chart situated beneath a hinged cover. DC5100 includes a hardcover. You’re looking at a versatile and feature-rich machine.
The Janome DC5100 is perfect for crafters who want to add a professional touch to their sewing projects and boost their skills. It will tell you what foot to use. It also has a needle up/down feature.
This feature is crucial for quilting. You will also get a fast reverse stitching functionality. The superior box feed system of this sewing unit works like a breeze. It’s something unique to Janome units.
The top drop-in bobbin system and snap-on presser feet make DC5100 ideal for beginners. You will also get a built-in needle threader which makes threading the needle a breeze.
The Janome DC5100 machine has a lever for lowering feed dogs and a locking stitch button to add to the finish. Additionally, you manipulate the speed utilizing the speed control slider.
You can work with a foot pedal. This unit includes a memory capable of memorizing 50 stitch patterns.
If you have a certain stitch and you have adjusted the size to your liking, you can memorize it. This way, you don’t have to adjust the size manually every time you use that stitch.
The Janome DC5100 has LED lights. The extra-high presser foot lift option is helpful when dealing with thicker materials or multiple layers of fabric.
Other features include a carrying handle, auto-declutch bobbin winder, and an automatic thread tension control. DC5100 can provide 820 stitches per minute.
Usability
This is a very quiet machine. It provides smooth operation thanks to the type of motor it has. It’s one of the quietest motors I have ever come across.
A good thing about this unit is that it’s capable of handling any type of fabric without jamming and other problems. It goes through layers of denim quite well.
The stitch quality is impressive. The best thing? This unit is suitable for delicate and thick fabrics. It sews through different types of fabric equally well.
This is what advanced sewers look for in a heavy-duty machine. DC5100 is long-lasting and sturdy but it’s not perfect. Let’s summarize the pros and cons.
Pros
- High-quality stitches
- Stable and sturdy workhorse
- The free arm capability provides the greatest outcome
- The presser feet perform amazingly
- Quiet and smooth operation
- Memory function
- It can handle different types of materials
- You can make customized buttonholes
- You will get different types of built-in stitches
- There’s reverse stitching
- The machine is reasonably-priced
- It includes a lot of high-quality accessories
- You have complete control over the speed
- The LCD screen is intuitive and works amazingly
- The unit is capable of sewing knits, wovens, and materials like denim and canvas
- You have the possibility of utilizing the extension table, free arm, or neither
- The extra-high presser foot lift makes switching feet easy and enables users to have more space when replacing the needle
- There’s a useful stitch chart situated under the hood
- This unit includes a hard case to protect your new sewing buddy
- You will get multiple decorative patterns to boost your creativity
Cons
- Alphabets appear sloppy
- The unit is a little noisy at top speed
- The bobbin system isn’t perfectly designed
- DC5100 isn’t the most durable sewing machine
- Beginners might find this sewing machine hard to use
- The backlit LCD screen and touchpad aren’t self-explanatory
- This Janome model is heavier than most alternatives
- It’s not a budget-friendly sewing machine
- You can’t customize the foot pressure
- There’s a learning curve for newbies
Overall, the Janome DC5100 is a real workhorse. Unlike plastic alternatives, this is a machine created to last. DC5100 provides high performance and the build quality is great.
It’s one of the quietest units in the U.S. market. It will be a perfect choice, especially if you have children at home and you want to work without waking them up. It’s a quiet machine.
Apart from the good stuff, I still have to mention the downsides. This unit isn’t perfect. For starters, it’s a relatively expensive machine. However, it’s worth every single penny.
How to Use Janome DC5100?
Winding the bobbin and threading this sewing machine is easy for any sewer, regardless of skill level and age, to complete with great ease.
Even users with years of experience might need a little help when it comes to these important functions and the board guides that lead you through the whole process.
Or winding and threading the unit. Once your sewing machine is threaded and the bobbin is positioned, the next step is to select a pattern.
This sewing machine has a menu selection switch on the right side of the backlit LCD screen. You have 3 settings including the one for utility stitches, the second for decorative stitches, and the third option for the alphanumeric font.
To choose a utility stitch, push the menu button once for the utility pattern icon to show in the window.
Then, rely on the stitch selection guide and dial up the preferred stitch number on your touchpad. When you want to utilize a decorative or alphanumeric stitch, follow the same steps.
For the sake of these Janome DC5100 reviews, I sampled various decorative and utility stitches and each stitch came out perfect, continuing the Janome’s high standards of performance.
All of the stitch patterns were perfectly made, sturdy and tight. The tension and balance were ideal at all times. The Janome DC5100 is advanced but still easy to use for beginners.
Janome DC5100 Accessories
The Janome DC5100 sewing machine is stylish and powerful. It’s suitable for various sewing tasks thanks to the many features including 5 1-step buttonholes and alphabet.
They ensure that sewers have all the stitch patterns they need for projects. You will get a broad range of user-friendly features including a touchpad and backlit LCD screen.
And a memorized needle up/down. This unit is loaded for a broad selection of sewing applications, with drop feed, automatic thread tension control, and memory capability.
Apart from the features, you will also get basic accessories like large and small spool holders, spool pin, spool stand, bobbins, etc. However, you will also get extra accessories.
The Janome DC5100 comes with a screwdriver for the bobbin customization, a needle set, and a brush. The brush is small but effective. I was impressed by the number of feet.
You will receive a regular zigzag foot which will be set on the unit, overedge foot, darning foot for extra precise alignment of the needle, and satin stitch foot for this type of fabric.
I didn’t count all of the extra foot attachments. However, you will get at least 5, as well as a quilter foot for your decorative work. The Janome DC5100 comes with a lot of extras.
Janome DC5100 Manual
The manual provided with this sewing machine is well-written and detailed. It will be enough for sewers to learn all the basics considering this sewing unit.
Once you learn how to sew with any of the “DC” sewing machine series by Janome, you will be an expert for all of them. The bobbin winding is simple as the bobbin is transparent.
And horizontal. There’s no need for extra tips regarding this procedure. There’s also the bobbin winder stopper. This feature can be customized with a screwdriver.
I have a small tip for you. Don’t take off the screw completely. As usual, I had to play a little and putting it back was annoying and nerve-wracking.
I also want to mention the fabric thread needle mix which is important for the success of your creations. Generally, I utilized 11/75 needle size with this unit.
However, there’s a full chart so that you get the key combination right. There’s also a presentation of all the supporting materials of this computerized sewing machine.
It works with any of the mentioned materials without any flaws. And honestly, Janome was modest and didn’t include all the supporting materials in the chart.
I have also tested this machine with some other materials like canvas, velvet, and silk. And it performed amazingly. The Janome DC5100 is super-versatile.
Janome DC5100 Bobbin
The Janome DC5100 sewing machine utilizes a class 15 A size bobbin. Pretty standard and most generic plastic bobbins work with this model. Utilizing the wrong bobbin might cause issues or damage to your sewing machine. This goes for all sewing machine brands.
Janome DC5100 for Sale
The sewers who’re looking for a quality, budget-friendly computerized sewing machine, should consider the Janome DC5100 computerized sewing machine.
It’s a popular heavy-duty sewing computerized machine that can be utilized to sew a few usable clothes. The unit is indeed easy to use and suitable for beginners.
You can buy DC5100 at Amazon. It’s covered by a great warranty. It’s also available at Sewing Machines Plus.
Janome DC5100 Price
You can find Janome DC5100 for less than $600. It’s a popular computerized model in the sewing world. Therefore, it’s available in both in-person and online stores.
User Feedback
Many of the buyers of this sewing machine feel that it’s easy to use. It doesn’t have a learning curve for beginners. They claim that all of the diagrams and manuals on the machine itself provide help while you learn how to use DC5100.
This unit may be costly when compared to alternatives. However, most users agree that it’s worth every penny. It’s a great compromise between the lower-quality and industrial units.
People around the world agree that DC5100 works great for different sewing tasks. It can handle a lot of fabrics including thicker fabrics for creating curtains or bags and thinner fabrics and knits.
Some users reported issues with broken needles and jamming. They claim that utilizing jersey fabrics got stuck within the feed dogs and jammed but restarting the unit and using the right needle helps.
Some users felt the included instructions weren’t very clear. However, watching YouTube videos helped, as did contact the company and asking for assistance and pointers.
Conclusion
The Janome DC5100 computerized unit is a great choice for sewers of every skill level. It has every stitch you could need whether you’re a professional or beginner.
For beginners, it performs well because it has all of the regular features. You will get all of the common patterns with the foot choices to match. You will also get a lot of accessories.
These accessories make sewing easier. But what I like most about this sewing machine are the automatic needle threader and automatic bobbin winder. It’s ideal for sewing, quilting, etc.
It’s perfect for professionals. You will get every pattern you need, although, you will need to get a rolling foot and walking foot separately. The unit is powerful and versatile.
DC5100 is made with heavy-duty tasks in mind. With this computerized model, you can do any work like quilting or home decor. This sewing machine packs a bunch of advanced features.
It’s loaded with a speed control slider, prearranged buttons, a backlit LCD screen, 167 built-in patterns, upper-level feed system, drop feed, reverse stitching and a lot of other capabilities.
You can make jeans, curtains, bags, ruffled dresses, cloth diapers, etc. The included features will make it easy to complete any project. If you run into problems, don’t worry.
Janome has great customer support that will help you instantly. Keep in mind that it’s a great option for sewing clothes and quilting but can’t handle embroidery projects.
Or a lot of customization job. Overall, it’s a superior sewing machine and makes a great investment. You won’t regret buying this machine. I would recommend DC5100 to any professional and experienced user but beginners can enjoy it as well. It’s advanced but still easy to utilize.
Hopefully, my honest Janome DC5100 reviews can help you determine if this machine responds to your sewing needs. If you have used this unit before, share your experience.
Drop a comment below! Would you recommend this sewing machine to anyone? If no, why? I would like to hear your unpopular opinion on this popular sewing machine.