Janome 525s Review In Detail

In terms of features, Janome 525s comes with 24 built-in stitches including a 1-step buttonhole. 525s is a mechanical sewing machine, so stitch selection is done by turning dials. The stitch chart is provided on the right hand side of the machine. Stitch width can be set to a maximum of 5mm. Stitch length is also adjustable via the dial just below the stitch selection dial (max 4mm). The machine is equipped with an automatic needle threader to save eye strain.

The reverse sewing lever is also placed in an easy to access location. The presser foot pressure is adjustable. It can be adjusted by turning the knob on the side of the machine. This is a feature that you may not find in all beginners' machines. It has a top drop-in bobbin, which makes it easy to change bobbin. The clear cover also lets you keep an eye on bobbin thread supply.

Janome 525s comes with a built-in work light which illuminates the work space reasonably well. There is a built-in storage compartment to store your accessories. You can remove the storage compartment and use the machine for sewing circular areas like cuffs and collars (free arm mode). The snap-on type presser feet is easy to change. Drop feed dog switch can be used to do free-motion works. A manual thread cutter is provided to cut the remaining thread.

Janome 525s weighs close to 15 lbs, which is slightly heavier than most machines in the segment. This is a good thing, the more metal inside, better the durability. The build quality is very good. The machine can do twin needle sewing as well. To make it portable, there is a built-in carry handle. The motor is powerful and can deliver 820 stitches/min. 525s comes with a hard cover as well.

Ease of Use

Janome 525s is a very quiet machine. In fact it is one of the quietest Janome machines we have ever come across. The needle plate markings take out the guess work. While sewing thick fabrics like denim, make sure that you use the right needles. The machine performs very well with multiple layers of fabric. We have sewn up to 6 layers of upholstery fabric and it went through effortlessly. 8 layers of denim won't be a problem as long as you use the right needle. 6 layers of fleece was a breeze. Overall, we are very much impressed with the variety of fabrics it can handle. The stitches are not only tight but also consistent. As we have said earlier, the build quality of this machine is very good. The machine is not too light or not to heavy.

Drawbacks

The automatic needle threader may require couple of attempts to get used to. It is an easy job once you get the hang of it.

Pros

•    Build quality
•    Excellent stitch quality
•    Good performance on multiple layers
•    Quiet machine

Cons

•    Tricky needle threader

Review Verdict

Now we know why Janome 525s became so popular in UK. It is a machine that oozes class.