Janome 12000 Sewing and Embroidery Machine Review

Janome 12000 provides countless possibilities that the creative adventure never ends.

If you’re looking for embroidery units, the Janome MC12000 is one to consider because of the advanced features. They make the machine capable of handling any challenge.

If you give this machine a chance, you will get over 40 accessories so you won’t need to buy extra things to embroidery your creations onto fabric.

This unit allows users to make or edit designs on the touch screen or your PC in real-time by connecting your machine to your personal computer.

However, what I like most about this model is the ability to make your stitches with the stitch composer.

The Janome 12000 is a combination sewing and embroidery machine that provides you the opportunity to embroider a bigger area than before accurately.

It also provides you the opportunity to make free arm embroidery stitching. Users may pivot their fabric with ease thanks to the automatic presser foot lift.

It lifts the foot whenever the fabric is sliced either automatically or manually without having to lift their hands from the project they’re working on.

I wrote these Janome 12000 reviews because I was impressed by this machine. I was amazed by the four hoops and 91 needle positions. With this unit, you get countless options.

The maximum width of stitches can reach 9mm which allows you to create bolder designs.

Switching your needle plate is also easier with this unit. All you need to do is push one button and switch it right away. Another thing I like about this unit is the motor speed.

12000 has a maximum speed of 1,000 stitches per minute while remaining stable and accurate. If you’re experiencing trouble viewing your work, this unit has 10 LED lights in 5 places.

If this isn’t enough, you also have the AcuView Magnifier which makes it a lot easier to view details. Let’s dive into my Janome 12000 reviews and learn more about this unit.

Product Specifications

General Overview

The Janome Horizon Memory Craft 12000 is a high-end, industrial-grade machine. It’s one of the most recommended models on the market.

You can find this popular unit for less than $7,000. It’s expensive but worth the cost. It’s a multi-purpose machine with a wide selection of features.

These features provide a comfortable, efficient and enjoyable sewing experience. You can use this unit for both embroidery and sewing purposes.

Although it’s a high-end, industrial-grade machine, it’s still easy to operate which is why it’s popular with new users who can afford to splurge as well.

Thanks to the stainless steel bedplate, this unit features a solid and large frame that provides stability while working.

The stable operation consequently delivers precision for a professional result. This can be useful for both sewing and embroidery.

Precision is usually required for this type of project. I like this unit because it has a lot of features. You can’t find features like that on low-end machines.

Some of these features include 13 1-step buttonhole styles, 425 stitch designs, 10 alphabet fonts on the embroidery mode, and 338 built-in embroidery designs.

The biggest flaw of this machine is associated with the computerized function. Not everyone can learn how to use this computerized machine.

It comes with a detailed, completely illustrated instruction manual to help you. However, beginners find the manual hard to understand and follow.

Other than this, Janome 12000 doesn’t have other downfalls and negative reviews. On the contrary, it’s been receiving nothing but 5-star ratings online.

At First Glance

At first glance, the Janome 12000 looks pretty much the same as other sewing machines.

However, once you take a closer look, you will notice it’s nothing like regular machines. For starters, you won’t be able to ignore the magnifying glass over the needle.

There is also a large detachable workspace that hides a series of conventionally placed function buttons, a free arm, and a storage case for accessories.

The conventionally placed function buttons include a needle up/down, start/stop, presser foot up/down, pattern stop, and thread snips.

Right over those buttons, you will notice the speed control slider. When the top of the unit is raised, you get instant access to the bobbin winding and threading mechanism.

You will also notice the quick reference stitch selection guide. Beneath that, on the front of the unit, you will notice a light that brightens up the needle plate and a seam guide.

This light combined with the magnifying glass ensure a clear view of your tasks. You will be able to view even the smallest details without using eyeglasses which is impressive.

Janome sewing machines are known for easy threading. This model is also very easy to thread. The light and magnifying glass make threading even simpler.

The stitch selection process is also simple. You have the choice of simply touching the stitch you want on the touch screen and you’re ready to go.

To access patterns that aren’t visible right away on the LCD touch screen, all you have to do is utilize the digital dial. The stitch quality on this machine is remarkable.

I’m not sure if you have ever witnessed stitch quality this good on a combination machine. It looks like the stitch quality on vintage units that give only zigzag and straight stitches.

You can also save your favorite, most common stitch selections on the unit’s hard drive, your USB stick or send it to your computer.

When saving a stitch selection in the unit’s memory, you can save it with a default name that is assigned or you can give it any name you want.

This machine comes with a lot of presser foot. Honestly, I decided not to mention any of the accessories and feet because if I did, it would take me at least 2 A4 pages.

However, I would like to mention the border guide foot that allows you to make similarly spaced lines of stitches easily.

Pick your pattern, stitch your first line and put the guide channel over your line, centering it between the two red lines.

This foot features guide channels to the right and left side of the needle, proving you endless flexibility in making similarly spaced lines of decorative patterns.

Aside from the 338 embroidery designs, you can also access a lot of embroidery choices via the Digitizer MBX software, clipart choices, photo imaging, and other patterns you can find online.

I don’t know why you would need anything aside from the 338 built-in designs but if you want, you can select from other options as well.

In my opinion, you won’t need additional designs. You can also combine parts from 2 or more designs or apply text with just a couple of clicks.

The original designs can also be changed with the Digitizer MBX software. As you can notice, the choices with this machine are endless.

This technique is made simple by Corel technology. I have never before tried to utilize the Janome 12000 but I believe that mastering the process is super easy.

If you have any experience with bitmap software or Word Art, you will have no problems using the MBX to make your embroidery designs in record time.

As if all these options and features weren’t enough, this machine includes one of the biggest hoops I’ve seen for home use.

In case you didn’t know, Janome was the pioneer of introducing machine embroidery to the home users.

Other brands provide capabilities with the utilization of a separate table that is attached to the machine for embroidery only. Most embroidery & sewing units cannot sew with the embroidery module in place.

However, Janome has a patented embroidery mechanism that doesn’t mess with other functions. This is why I trust Janome with my money.

The patented embroidery arm on this model is super big, allowing you to make embroidery designs until 9.1 x 11.8 inches without worries about shifting or slipping.

12000 can handle many types of fabric including natural fibers like wool, linen, and cotton, knits, suede, fine fabrics like velvet, taffeta, satin, and silk, and upholstery.

It can also handle synthetic fibers like polyester, rayon, and blends, canvas, rubber, plastic, dense fabrics or multiple layers, and so on.

Generally, it’s a great machine that brings great value for money. Honestly, I wouldn’t think twice about buying it.

Features of Janome 12000

The Janome 12000 is packed with a lot of features. If you’re interested in buying this unit, scroll down to take a closer look at the most important ones.

Bonus Bundle

The bonus bundle of this unit comes with MC12000 workbook, Janome thread assortment, six-packs of white pre-wound bobbins, RE18 essential hoop kit, a five-year extended warranty, and a Style J blossom bobbins.

Real-Time PC Connection With Horizon Link

This machine allows users to make and edit designs on the touch screen. However, they can also create or edit their designs in real-time on their computer.

This way, your editing screen is as big as your computer monitor. You can take your laptop with you to edit on the go which is very cool and useful in my opinion.

Acufeed Flex Layered Fabric Feeding System

Passionate quilters like myself love this unit because of the AcuFeed Flex layered fabric feeding system. It removes easily and arrives in 2 widths for all your sewing projects.

Stitch Composer

Thanks to the stitch composer, you can create your stitches and edit the present ones. I appreciate this feature because it allows me to express my creativity.

Linear Motion Embroidery System

This system provides users a larger embroidery space than ever before, with even better accuracy. This unit allows for free-arm embroidery.

4 Embroidery Hoops

The Janome 12000 comes with four hoops with impressive capabilities. The GR hoop provides 9.1 x 11.8 inches of embroidery space and includes magnets to add stability.

The SQ hoop provides 9.1 x 9.1 inches of embroidery space. You will also get a free arm hoop FA10 that is useful for hard-to-reach spots, and a 5.5. x 5.5 square hoops.

Simple Pivoting With the Auto Presser Foot Lift

The auto presser foot loft raises the presser foot after a thread cut automatically. No matter if you have pushed the thread snip switch or a programmed thread slice happened.

9mm Stitch Width

The extra width makes it all your decorative patterns more distinct and bolder. Most of the 424 built-in patterns take complete advantage of the 9mm width.

1-Step Needle Plate Conversion

For light fabric, piecing, and making embroidery, a 1-step needle plate conversion makes a difference.

You can change the needle plate in moments. Just press one lever to detach the plate, then put the new plate in the spot.

Adjustable zigzag

You can change the width of your zigzag while working. With flexible zigzag, you utilize the knee lifter to taper and broaden patterns while working.

High Speed

This machine embroiders up to 1,000 stitches per minute. It’s so stable that you can work at the highest speed with hoops until 9.1 x 11.8 without dropping stitch quality.

Sewing Bed With 15 Inches of Embossed Stainless Steel

The sewing bed with 15 inches of embossed stainless steel crossing 11 inches to the right of the needle provides a lot of space for your largest projects.

Free Motion Quilting

The automatic features, additional decorative choices, and precision stitching make free motion quilting simpler than ever.

You can customize the foot height for your tasks and needs, then save the settings to memory. You can also allow auto height and auto pressure to adjust for you.

10 Built-In Lights in 5 Places

Can you believe that this machine comes with 10 built-in LEDs in 5 different places?

You can also add a better illumination straight under the needle. Simply extend the retractable high light and point it wherever you prefer additional light.

AcuView Magnifier

Last but not least, you will get a brand new feature known as the AcuView Magnifier which allows users to view even the smallest detail under the needle.

Things I Like About Janome 12000

No matter if you sew, embroider, quilt garments and décor or make a combination of everything, this is the perfect machine for the job. It makes all more exciting.

You will be able to complete tasks faster when you have a deadline. It’s so easy to use and provides such powerful features, you can spend hours happily stitching, loving your work.

It’s a machine that expands your horizons.

Only a Janome model provides this ideal blend of advanced technology and user-friendly interface. This unit has everything you need to complete your projects a lot faster.

Let’s take a closer look at some of the positive sides of Janome 12000.

Embroidery Space

You will be glad to learn that this Janome machine is loaded with a large maximum embroidery space of 9.1 x 11.8 inches. It also includes 3 other hoops.

They come in different sizes including 9.1 x 9.1 inches, 5.5 x 5.5 inches, and 3.1 x 1.6 inches. You can pick the one that meets your needs and requirements.

When it comes to the sewing space, this model includes a big stitching plate so you will be able to work with larger and heavier fabrics without a problem.

This is helpful for users who want to engage in quilting. The large workspace is also made to deliver you more precise corners for reaching your fabric.

User-Friendly Interface

The Janome 12000 is super easy to use and comes with all the necessary features to improve your skills and boost your sewing experience.

It’s a fully computerized machine so it’s easy to work through. There is also a built-in needle threader. It will make sure that you thread your unit without straining your eyes.

Thanks to the advanced screen, users can also set up the thread tension simply. It’s not a complicated process. You will also appreciate the built-in memory function and the USB port.

They turn the process of transferring your designs into a breeze. You can transfer as many as you want on your sewing machine using your PC. You will also get an automatic thread cutter.

The automatic thread cutter includes its memory function to simplify your work. You can make the most out of your projects thanks to the auto declutch bobbin winder.

Additional Features

With this machine, you will get 10 alphabet fonts for monogramming. You will also receive 425 sewing stitches and 338 built-in embroidery designs.

If you want to use your unit for quilting, it’s good to know that this model doesn’t include a flexible zig-zag function to boost free motion quilting

However, the memory capacity of this unit is 4MB so you can keep as many embroidery designs as you want in your machine.

It’s also nice to mention that you will get assistance and on-screen tutorials to help you through all your sewing and embroidery projects.

This machine comes with a stitch composer stitch making system to boost your projects. Generally, this machine brings great value for money.

It’s loaded with features and easy to use. It’s one of the best embroidery and sewing machines. Thanks to the smooth and super-fast performance, you will be able to use almost any fabric.

However, what I like most about this machine is the solid construction. Your 12000 will remain stable no matter how fast you sew.

It’s perfect for small businesses because it can be utilized regularly without worrying about it wearing out. It’s suitable for both beginners and experts.

Things I don’t Like About Janome 12000

At first glance, this machine looks flawless. However, some beginners claim that it’s difficult to learn and use. It’s too advanced for absolute beginners but ideal for experts.

Also, some people think it’s overpriced. However, that couldn’t be further from the truth. It brings great value for money and costs less than similar machines on the market.

Whether you’re a quilter, a sewer or both, this unit will take your sewing skills and sewing experience to a whole new level.

If sewing is your passion, you should treat yourself with this machine.

Final Thoughts

The quilting and embroidery projects made with the Janome 12000 look phenomenal.

I have witnessed a lot of projects in my day. However, I have to admit, the quilts made with this machine stand out among all the rest.

This unit works well with metallic threads and almost any specialty thread from popular manufacturers. In my opinion, the Janome 12000 is one of the best embroidery machines.

If you’re looking for an advanced, easy to use, and intuitive embroidery unit, you should consider 12000. It requires a serious investment of money but it’s worth the cost.

The Janome 12000 is so easy to use that users of all skill levels would love it. Professional users won’t be disappointed in this machine. It includes amazing features and accessories.

12000 is one of those high-end, industrial-grade machines. It’s one of the most recommended models on the market.

The biggest flaw of this machine is associated with the computerized function. Not everyone can learn how to use this computerized machine.

Overall, the Janome 12000 would make a great accessory to any sewing station.

Hopefully, my Janome 12000 reviews can help you determine if this is the right embroidery and sewing machine for you. Have you ever used this machine before?

If so, feel free to share your experience and opinion in the comments below.