Janome HD1000 Sewing Machine Review

Recently updated on April 5th, 2023

In the past, we have reviewed Singer and Brother machines around here, but we decided to try Janome after taking a class with a local customer who is in love with her Janome HD 1000.

For a beginner, especially for a young one, having an easy-to-use machine was useful since it prevented any stumbling blocks when it came to projects ranging from personalized t-shirts to small handbags.

This review analyzes the pros and cons of the Janome HD1000 after going through its features. Furthermore, we will compare it with a few of its competitors to see how well it holds up. Check out our review to discover whether this is the right product for you.

Reviewing the specifications and then discussing why we love this machine is a good place to start.

Janome HD1000 Overview

HD1000 is a mechanical heavy-duty sewing machine with 14 built-in stitches. This is not an overwhelming amount of stitches when compared to computerized machines, but it is sufficient to handle most domestic sewing needs. Among the stitches are a 4-step buttonhole, a straight stitch, a zig-zag stitch, a stretch blind hem, a standard blind hem, a stretch stitch, a rick rack, feathers/briars (used in quilting), and overcast and blanket stitches. Hand-operated dials control length and width.

Additionally, the machine has an integrated needle threader and presser feet that can be snapped on.

As a heavy-duty machine, the Janome HD1000 can handle denim and leather, which are heavier and denser fabrics. Having read countless reviews about this machine, it appears that many people have trouble washing heavier fabrics. That wasn’t the case for me. My eye was impressed by how easily it sewed through 8 layers of denim – roughly equivalent to the side seams of blue jeans. The machine has also been used to sew through upholstery fabric (with the proper needle and non-stick foot) without a hitch.

We should take a quick look at Janome HD1000’s specifications and features before we proceed with our review.

Janome HD1000 Specs

Janome HD1000 Features

• 14 Utility Stitches – a simple to use 4 step buttonhole, utility stitches, stretch stitches, and stretch stitches
• There is also a soft cover, bobbins, felt, extra needles, a seam ripper/buttonhole ripper foot, Zipper Foot, Hemmer Foot, Buttonhole Foot, and a Hem Guide.
• It has a built-in needle threader and thread cutter – Needle-threading without straining your eyes
• Lever for reversing stitching
• Manual thread tension control
• Drop feed
• Easily detachable free arm – it can be used to sew pants, cuffs, collars, darning, stippling, attaching buttons, and other free-motion applications
• Adjustable stitch length
• High presser foot
• Automatic bobbin winder

Additional accessories are included with the HD1000. The box also includes a number of extra items in addition to the sewing machine. It also includes several accessories such as bobbins, felt, extra needles, two screwdrivers, a seam ripper, zipper foot, hemmer foot, buttonhole foot, and a hem guide.

There are some options on Amazon that come with a bonus, including extra needles and feet, as well as a pretty carry case, so check what’s available and decide if the “extras” are worth the added cost.

You may also be familiar with the Janome HD1000BE, which stands for Black Edition. Despite its black color, this machine has more of an antique, classic appearance. In terms of features and performance, the Janome HD1000BE is similar to the standard Janome HD1000, except for the sleeker design.

Janome HD1000 Price

When there are numerous computerized sewing machines available, you may wonder why you should purchase a mechanical sewing machine such as the Janome HD1000.

A mechanical sewing machine’s user-friendliness is a major reason to choose it. There are typically many buttons, instructions, and other (overwhelming) features on automated machines. A mechanical sewing machine, such as the HD1000, is well suited to beginners who are looking for a machine that is easy to use. When there are fewer electronics, there is less to learn… and sometimes that also means fewer things to break.

You can use mechanical machines even if you’re a beginner or intermediate sewer. With the Janome HD1000, you can stitch straight lines, zigzags, and buttonholes, which are the most commonly used stitches.

Janome HD1000 Pros

1. Foot presser lift with extra-high feet – HD machines benefit from an extra-high foot presser lift, which is an especially useful feature. Because your presser foot will be lifted higher than normal, you’ll be able to accommodate thicker fabric layers, like the 8 layers of denim I mentioned earlier. Especially if you sew with leather or denim, you will find this feature very useful.
2. Detachable free arm – You’ll be thankful for a free arm if you’re sewing around narrow projects. To access the free arm, simply remove the accessory tray. Hemming sleeves or pants’ bottoms can be done this way. The needle will not catch the fabric and you won’t accidentally sew over other parts of the garment when you use this method.
3. Manual stitch length and thread tension – The Janome HD1000 proves that a manual dial works just as well as preprogrammed buttons on automatic sewing machines, even though it may seem at first glance that automatic sewing machines have a distinct advantage. With these manual controls, you have greater control over your projects, and the machine is very easy to use.
   
   With sliders, knobs, and dials available to adjust the stitch length and thread tension, you can adjust your garments with complete precision.
   
   A dial on top of the machine allows you to control thread tension. The dial can be tightened or loosened as needed.

Janome HD1000 Cons

1. Previously, we discussed the first con. There aren’t a lot of stitch options available on the HD1000. Its stitches cover the basics, but if you want extra decorative options, it will fall short.
2. However, it has difficulty handling emblems or patches despite being a heavy-duty machine. It might be a good idea to take your patches to your local alternations shop where an industrial sewing machine is available.
3. Many Janome HD1000 machines are marketed as all-metal machines. This is not the case. The frame is aluminum, but some parts inside and outside are made of hard plastic. The parts of the machine stand up, but the notion that it is all made of metal is incorrect. We don’t live in a world where there’s no plastic in domestic machines – that’s just the way the world works.
4. In addition, the HD1000 lacks some features that would have made it an excellent choice for beginners.
5. First, there is a slider for controlling the speed. It is always good to have a speed control mechanism in case your foot slips accidentally while using the foot pedal to adjust the stitching speed.
6. For beginners, we usually recommend top-loading bobbins. The bobbins on this machine are front loading. The top-loading option is easier to see and access, but it’s not as obvious.
7. In sum, the “cons” do not justify skipping this machine. With the Janome HD1000, you’ll be able to handle a variety of projects at an affordable price.

Which fabrics can I use with the Janome HD1000?

Fabrics of all types can be used with the HD1000. Lightweight fabrics are a breeze to work with, but the HD is the machine of choice when working with denim, leather, and upholstery. As well as denser fabrics, Janome HD 1000 sews through them as well. It is very important to use a needle that is strong enough for the fabric you are sewing on.

Working with layered fabrics is made easy by the extra-high foot pressure lift. The extra lift of the machine gives it an advantage since it can handle thicker stacks of fabric with more space.

How easy is it to operate the Janome HD1000?

It is easy to learn the HD1000. Even a six-year-old had no problem jumping right in and working with it.

It is great that there are two instruction manuals included. To ensure you’ve familiarized yourself with all your machine has to offer, we always recommend reading through the manual.

Comparison of Janome HD1000 Competitors

Janome HD1000 vs Singer 4423 Comparison

As budget-friendly, entry-level heavy-duty machines, Janome HD1000 and Singer HD 4423 come to mind. Both of these sewing machines are built with a strong metal frame that can handle thick fabrics.

For your quick reference, here are the major differences:

• There are 14 stitches on the Janome model and 23 on the Singer model.
• A 4-step buttonhole is available on the Janome HD 1000 and a 1-step option is available on the Singer 4423.
• It is easier for beginners to load a bobbin on a Janome than a Singer (which has a drop-in top).
• Janome weighs 16.8 lbs, while Singer weighs 14.5 lbs. The slight difference may matter to you if weight and portability are important factors.
• A foot pressure adjustment is available on the Singer 4423 that isn’t available on Janome. In summary, the Singer 4423 has more features that are more beginner-friendly.

Janome HD1000 vs Janome HD3000 Comparison

In comparison to its older sister, the HD 3000, how does the HD 1000 fare?

• In contrast to the HD3000, the HD1000 offers a front-loading bobbin.
• As opposed to the HD3000’s 6.5mm stitch length, the HD1000’s maximum stitch length is 5mm.
• The HD1000’s feed dog system consists of 3 pieces, while the HD3000’s system consists of 5 pieces.
• There are 14 stitches on the HD1000 versus 21 stitches on the HD3000.
• Additionally, the HD3000 weighs about 2 pounds more, which may reduce its portability for some.

Janome HD1000 Final Thoughts

In the end, we give the Janome HD1000 high marks. I rate it highly in terms of user-friendliness and overall ease of use if a kid can use it right away.

Due to its versatility and relative quietness, it is an excellent choice for domestic machines that can handle a range of projects. With the Janome HD1000, I’ve seen jeans hemmed, upholstery sewed, and costumes constructed with ease.

Especially since so many Singer and Brother machines are out of stock, having another brand to consider is great. SewingWithEase highly recommends checking out this model.

You may be interested in our Beginner’s Guide to Embroidery Machines too so make sure to check it out.