I've been using the 350E for several weeks now, and I LOVE it. It is my first experience with an embroidery machine, and was so easy to learn how to use. I have had a Janome Memory Craft sewing machine for many years now, and have always been pleased with it. So, I wasn't looking to buy a sewing/embroidery machine combination. After looking at many of the other models on the market, and deciding that I wanted an "embroidery only" machine, the Janome 350E won hands down. The quality of the stitching is great. And, it has features that are only offered on some of the more expensive models made by other companies. As mentioned before, it is very easy to use right out of the box. I purchased it from a local dealer, and was given a lesson right there in the shop. I was operating the machine on my own within about 10 minutes.
There are a few quirks that seem to be peculiar to the 350E. One issue is that, while the display screen is very easy to see and user friendly, the setting for it's clarity changes on it's own while I'm embroidering. I have to reset it's brightness/contrast several times in a sitting. The model in the showroom did the same thing and I was told that it's just the way it is. This certainly wasn't a deal breaker for me, but a little irritating that Janome has not been able to get this right.
The other quirk that I found is that the "low bobbin" warning doesn't always work. Again, I have read that this is another issue with the model, in general. Sometimes I get no warning until the bobbin totally runs out. Sometimes I get a brief message on the screen....if I happen to catch it while it is displayed. And, sometimes I get the audible beep along with the message. I'm going to speak with my dealer about this. But, again, I have read that this is a common issue.
Other than those two things, I am completely thrilled with this machine. And, these two issues are the only reason I gave the Janome 350E 4 stars. In every other aspect, I would give it a 10 star rating.
I've now used this machine for about six weeks, and find that I needed to downgrade my 4 star rating to a three star rating. My LED screen has failed. Luckily it is under warranty, and my dealer has ordered a replacement part. But, after being a Janome user for almost 17 years, I am really disappointed to have this issue in just these few weeks of ownership.
NEW DOWNGRADE TO MY REVIEW. It is now October, and I've had my 350E for 8 months. I got a new screen installed in my machine a few months ago. While it is better, it still fades in and out until the machine warms up. I'm not pleased at all with this, but it seems to be the way it is. AND, today, in the middle of sewing some Halloween designs, my machine totally locked up and is in error message mode. I understand it is probably a sensor problem, so back to the shop it goes. I am going to see if they will either give me a new replacement for this machine, or give me my money back. Two major problems in 8 months is totally unacceptable, especially since I hardly used the machine over the summer months. As I stated earlier, I am so disappointed in Janome.
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