If you’re looking for a quality entry-level sewing machine that comes at a fantastic price, look no further than Janome 2222. It’s a mechanical unit with 22 built-in stitches.
It also features a 1-step buttonhole, dial pattern selection, and adjustable stitch width and length. Great features like a drop feed and free arm make this unit even more appealing.
I was looking forward to trying this model because many users claimed that it’s versatile and worth the money. And they weren’t wrong. I absolutely loved it. That is why I wrote this review.
Easy to use and lightweight, this machine is perfect for the absolute beginner. However, let’s jump into my Janome 2222 review and learn more about this marvelous user-friendly machine.
Product Specifications
| Dimensions: | 6 x 15.2 x 11.6 |
| Weight: | 13.2 pounds |
| Warranty: | 25-year limited warranty |
| Maximum stitch length: | 4mm |
| Maximum stitch width: | 5mm |
| A built-in needle threader: | Yes |
| Sewing speed: | 860 |
First Impressions
2222 is definitely a sewing unit for absolute beginners.
However, all you need to do is throw one look at the oversized reverse stitch button and the large stitch selection dials to realize that it can be used by people of all skill levels.
The seam guides and clearly defined threading guides on both sides of the needle plate make this model even easier to use. It also features a front-loading bobbin and other interesting features.
The features include an automatic needle threader, free arm, drop feed control lever, bobbin housing, and onboard storage for your machine accessories.
Beginning with the push/pull button and following the simple threading guide and the automatic needle threader, turn the setting up of this machine as easy as possible.
The setup is pretty simple, which means that even a child at the age of 8 can master these processes with just a minimum amount of adult hand.
Winding the bobbin needs pulling the wheel out until it locks. Afterward, you need to push it back into place once the bobbin is threaded.
Once the front loading bobbin is in a spot and the needle threaded, you just need to decide which stitch you want to use. Also, you need to set the stitch width and length.
I tried all of the stitch choices and wasn’t very happy when a couple of them didn’t come out looking like they did on the selection dial.
However, this issue is easy to resolve. All you need to do is play with the stitch width and length dials. If you’re a beginner, you might find this frustrating.
However, issues like this help you build a sewing experience. Patience is key in this practice.
Overall, 2222 delivers secure and tight stitches.
And we all know that Janome is known for amazing stitch quality. This machine is another proof that you can never go wrong with Janome.
Detaching the storage case to get to the free arm is acceptable and understandable. There is something I don’t like about this machine.
You can’t get to the drop feed control if you don’t stop everything from opening the bobbin housing door and removing the accessories storage.
This is a total waste of energy and time, in my opinion.
When you’re in the middle of a project that needs attaching buttons, darning, or free-motion stitching, this can be pretty exhausting.
The Janome 2222 can work with different fabrics, including natural fibers like wool, linen, and cotton, fur, fine fabrics like velvet, taffeta, satin, and silk, and upholstery.
It can also handle knits, synthetic fabrics like polyester, rayon, and blends, canvas, plastic, rubber, super thick fabrics, and multiple layers.
Overall Review
Janome 2222 represents a decent sewing machine for beginners. However, I have a few reservations.
For example, the stitch selection is easy but gets complex when picking a decorative stitch that requires a lot of adjustments of the width and length dials in order to get good results.
Also, having to detach the accessories storage to get to the bobbin is not my favorite thing about 2222. The drop feed placement is also not very wisely done.
Don’t get me wrong. I still like many things about this model, and I honestly believe that it’s a great unit. However, it’s good to know about the downfalls before you buy it.
I have been a seamstress for a long time, and I was used to conveniences like the bobbin access and drop feed being faster and easier to get to.
If you’re a beginner, you will not find this a big problem. However, if you’re a professional sewer like me, it can be a little annoying and difficult to get used to.
The Janome reputation and workmanship outweigh any reservations or hesitation I may have about this unit. Aside from the issues I mentioned, I still believe it’s worth buying.
My honest opinion is that maybe the challenge is because Janome tried to place a little too much on this super-affordable unit while still keeping it budget-friendly for beginners.
I personally give it four out of five stars because of my dissatisfaction with the stitches.
What I like most about this machine is the stitching speed. This affordable workhorse can sew up to 860 stitches per minute, which is not bad for a beginner-friendly unit.
However, it’s still slower than most units made with intermediate or advanced sewers in mind. Still, for the price, the sewing speed isn’t only acceptable but perfect.
You can buy the Janome 2222 for less than $300, which is a great deal. This model definitely brings great value for money. If you want a quality sewing unit for newbies, this is the one.
Having to make small adjustments to receive the desired results for about three stitch choices is a small sacrifice for the superior quality of this budget-friendly mechanical sewing unit.
If you’re looking for a cheap mechanical sewing unit and you’re willing to invest time and effort into the few stitches that require extra adjustments, look no further than Janome 2222.
It’s definitely worth considering when shopping for a cheap, entry-level sewing machine.
Features of Janome 2222
Let’s take a closer look at some of the main features of 2222 that will make you fall in love at first stitch.
22 Built-In Stitches
This is a great element for a dedicated learner to have. The 22 built-in stitches prove to be super useful, especially when you’re investing a lot of time in creating structured designs.
However, if you’re making drapes and pads only, I suggest looking elsewhere. A less difficult unit would be handy and fine.
Each of these stitches will save you a lot of precious time on planning your design. You can make designs without much or any preparation.
You can make different manifestations using these stitches. If you purchase this machine, the sky will be your only limit when it comes to stitches.
This is a great feature for beginners to find their creative side unbounded. Learning how to make perfect stitches even boost a person’s desire to use a sewing unit.
User-Friendly
Making user-friendly sewing machines for beginners is what Janome is known for.
The company is also known for its excellent stitch quality and low-maintenance machines. This machine is no exception. To be honest, you don’t need assistance from anybody to use this machine.
Absolute beginners can begin sharpening their sewing skills the same day they receive their sewing unit. One part that makes it easy to use is the automatic needle threader.
If you’re appreciative of this feature, you will love this machine. Threading this machine is super easy for both beginners and advanced users looking for a backup sewing machine.
Another interesting feature that is worth mentioning is the needle plate. A quick look at the needle plate is enough to realize how to set the different stitches by simply switching the dial.
Lightweight
One of the main reasons why I like this machine is the weight.
If you purchase this machine, you will get a lightweight, travel-friendly sewing buddy that will assist you in your sewing ventures.
It weighs only 13.2 pounds. However, it is still loaded with some of the most important features you can find in advanced Janome sewing machines. The Janome 2222 is easy to carry.
Another feature that adds to the lightweight design is the ergonomic carrying handle.
This handle will make sure that you don’t strain your arm but carry your new sewing friend with ease. If you want a travel-friendly sewing machine, the Janome 2222 might be perfect for you.
Powerful Motor
Another thing I love about this machine is the powerful motor. The Janome 2222 includes a super-strong motor that allows a sewing speed of 860 stitches per minute.
Similar machines in the market have a slower speed. Not only will you get 22 built-in stitches but also a powerful engine that will help you complete your projects faster.
This makes the 2222 time-saver. It’s also worth mentioning that this model can handle any sort of fabric and texture, including denim, which can be a problem for similar units.
Free Arm
A common mistake made by beginners is buying a sewing machine without this feature. A free arm is an important feature you should definitely consider.
Without this feature, working with sleeves and collars can turn into a nightmare. It’s important to check if the sewing machine you want to buy has this feature.
The fact that Janome incorporated this feature in a budget-friendly sewing machine once again proves that it’s focused on making high-quality, beginner-friendly units.
This feature is necessary for completing different projects. However, that is not all that this unit comes with. It also features a drop feed used to make straight lines.
Other impressive features include automated, programmed buttonholes, a manual string stain control, a built-in needle threader, snap-on presser feet, a 3-piece feed dog, and so on.
It also has a selective stitch dial, an extra high presser foot lift, adjustable stitch width and length dials, 2 spool pins, and a protective cover.
Standard Accessories
Some of the standard accessories include different types of feet, such as the following:
Overedge Foot
Thus foot keeps the edges flat and manages your fabric.
It also compensates for the lack of friction when your needle is making the right-most stitch. It’s perfect for finishing medium to heavy-duty projects and projects that include woven fabrics.
Zigzag Foot A
This foot is also known as the general sewing foot or all-purpose foot. It’s standard for all Janome units.
It’s used for utility stitching from zigzag stitch to straight. The black leveling button handles humps when stitching over stocky seams.
Zipper Foot
This foot can be projected to stitch on both sides of the zipper.
This can be performed by adjusting the spot of the foot and tightening the thumbscrew. It’s also useful for stitching closely to the piping.
Specialized Bobbin
The specialized bobbin can be found on both computerized sewing machines and embroidery machines from the Memory Craft line.
A rubber is applied to a transparent resin to improve performance and cancel noise. It’s imprinted with the letter “J.”
Rolled Hem Foot
This foot is often referred to as rolled hemmer. It sews the tape-rolled hems on shirt tails, table linens, and so on. The rolled hem foot on this unit is made with a scroll-shaped feed on top.
Also, there is a straight groove under for settling the width of the completed hem. When working with heavier fabrics, a setting of 4mm or 6mm will be needed.
Buttonhole Foot
This foot is mostly used for creating buttonholes on tight areas such as cuffs and other sections where freedom of movement is required. A sliding buttonhole foot will be needed.
Additional accessories include large and small screwdrivers, a seam ripper, a user guide, an oil dispenser, 4 bobbins, ahem guide, and extra needles.
These accessories will make your work easier and save you time from visiting the local shop to buy accessories. Also, they save you money, which is always welcome.
Advantages of Janome 2222
The biggest advantage of Janome 2222 is the ease of use. This makes the Janome 2222 perfect for kids and beginners.
Beginning with the push/pull button and following the simple threading guide and the automatic needle threader, turn the setting up of this machine as easy as possible.
The setup is pretty simple, which means that even a child at the age of 8 can master these processes with just a minimum amount of adult hand.
Winding the bobbin is also easy. However, it requires hauling the wheel out until it bolts. After that, you should place it again into the proper spot once the bobbin is threaded.
Once the front loading bobbin is in a spot and the needle threaded, you just need to decide which stitch you want to use. Also, you need to set the stitch width and length.
I tried all of the stitch choices and wasn’t very happy when a couple of them didn’t come out looking like they did on the selection dial.
However, this issue is easy to resolve. All you need to do is play with the stitch width and length dials. If you’re a beginner, you might find this frustrating.
However, issues like this help you build a sewing experience. Patience is key in this practice. Overall, 2222 delivers secure and tight stitches.
And we all know that Janome is known for amazing stitch quality. This machine is another proof that you can never go wrong with Janome.
Detaching the storage case to get to the free arm is acceptable and understandable. There is something I don’t like about this machine.
You can’t get to the drop feed control if you don’t stop everything from opening the bobbin housing door and removing the accessories storage.
This is a total waste of energy and time, in my opinion.
When you’re in the middle of a project that needs attaching buttons, darning, or free-motion stitching, this can be pretty exhausting.
The Janome 2222 can work with different fabrics, including natural fibers like wool, linen, and cotton, fur, fine fabrics like velvet, taffeta, satin, and silk, and upholstery.
It can also handle knits, synthetic fabrics like polyester, rayon, and blends, canvas, plastic, rubber, super thick fabrics, and multiple layers.
Overall, 2222 is a great entry-level sewing machine that brings great value for money. If you’re a newbie, you should definitely consider 2222 when shopping for a machine.
Disadvantages of Janome 2222
After doing a lot of research on this machine and trying it out myself, I have come to the conclusion that it is perfect for beginners, and unlike similar models, it’s feature-rich.
However, every sewing machine has its flaws, and Janome 2222 is no exception. One of the biggest cons of this machine includes noise levels. Users complain about the noise.
Apparently, it releases a flying plane-like sound when working. If this isn’t a dealbreaker for you, I kindly suggest that you buy the Janome 2222 before it goes out of stock.
It’s a low-cost, feature-rich sewing machine that shouldn’t be missed. Also, it’s the ideal solution for new sewers who don’t want to spend too much on their first sewing unit.
Although I like to point out that it’s perfect for beginners, people of all skill levels can use this impressive sewing machine. If you’re a professional, you can have it as a backup.
Final Words
From my Janome 2222 review, you can learn all you need to know about this machine before you buy it. It’s the perfect machine for a newbie.
Also, you can never go wrong with the stitches because they’re secured and tight. Even a child at the age of 7 or 8 can use this entry-level sewing machine.
It can sew up to 860 stitches per minute, which is impressive for a household, basic sewing machine. Just think of how many projects you can complete in no time.
The seam guides and threading on both sides of the needle plate are perfectly explained. It’s also worth mentioning that 2222 comes with a bonus sewing kit.
The sewing kit includes different types of feet and other standard accessories that will make your work a lot easier.
Own now this marvelous sewing unit and enjoy all the impressive features it provides.
Have you ever used this machine? If so, what is your opinion on it? Feel free to drop a comment and let me know.