Well, about a year ago, I purchased a Janome 1600P. This sewing machine is not fancy, it isn't computerized, and it only stitches a straight stitch. That's right, no zig-zags, no pretty border or quilting stitches, just a plain old boring straight stitch with 3 buttons, a speed lever and a reverse bar. And since it is a mechanical machine, it requires lots of attention.....oiling almost every time I change the bobbin, constant cleaning and it weighs a whole lot too. The machine is boring, bulky and heavy....but let me tell you - I LOVE this machine like no other.
Why?
Let me tell you....
Because she is a workhorse. A simple machine that demands to be taken very seriously (hence her name "The Beast"). And I call her that with the utmost respect. This machine is my go-to when I have a lot of work to do and time is limited. With a sewing speed of 1600 stitches per second, this machine can plow through a pile of sewing like this....
So much quicker than any of my other machines. This machine is the closest home-sewing machine you can get before moving into the commercial models which have a separate motor.
I typically keep The Beast tucked away under a table and pull it out when I have a super large pile of work lying in front of me. Since I do have to switch it out with my regular machine I choose to only use it when I really need it.
So how fast is 1600 stitches per minute? Let me show you.....
Fast, no? I have to tell you, it took a bit of time to get used to that speed. It actually scared me a bit the first time I used it!
Another great feature of this machine is the pure power. By power, I mean this baby sews through layer upon layer like butter. My regular machine struggles a bit when sewing through something like this:
4 layers of cotton, 2 layers of hi loft batting (inclusive of the seam allowance on the interior) and 4 layers of interfacing
The Beast doesn't hesitate in the least. Take a look:
Impressive.
Oh, and did I mention the stitch quality? Since her only purpose is to stitch straight, she does it very, very well.
And that is why I love "The Beast". She has gotten me through some tight spots. And today I wanted to celebrate her in all her simple glory. Thank you Beast, for being the best at what you do!
Now THAT'S a machine!
ReplyDeleteThanks Sue!
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