Here’s my Janome quilting machine review.
Late to the party, but still in June! So, Happy National Sewing Machine Day! 🎉
Today, I’m sharing a long-overdue love letter (and honest review) to my sewing room workhorse—the Janome Horizon Memory Craft 8200QC, which I’ve owned since 2013. 11 Years In and Still Going Strong. If you’re a quilter thinking about upgrading your sewing machine, especially for free-motion quilting or working on large quilts, this post is for you.
✨ Why I Upgraded to the Janome Horizon
Before getting the Janome Horizon Memory Craft 8200QC, I was quilting on a much smaller domestic machine, also a Janome, Janome DC4020 – which you can see in my earlier posts and in the photo below. And while I could finish a quilt on it (and did, many times), it was never easy. Wrestling a large quilt through a small throat space can be exhausting—and honestly frustrating.
But I loved it too. We work with what we can afford and have right?
So when I upgraded to this machine for the larger throat space, it felt like stepping into a whole new quilting world. Suddenly, quilting large projects didn’t feel like a workout anymore. There was room—room to move the quilt around freely, room to see what I was doing, room to breathe.
Besides the large throat space, the overall build and smoothness of this machine continues to impress me. It hums along so quietly and feels like it glides through fabric. There’s very little vibration, even when I’m moving quickly with free motion quilting. It was quite a challenge when I quilted with the smaller machine that the machine will move around as I push through the large quilts.
🧵 The Large Throat Space: A Game Changer for Quilters
Let’s talk about throat space, because if you quilt, this matters more than you might think.
The Janome Horizon has an 11-inch throat space, and for anyone quilting anything larger than a baby quilt, that extra space is everything. It allows for easier maneuvering, smoother free-motion quilting, and less bunched-up frustration. I’ve quilted large throw quilts, twin quilts, and even queen-sized ones on this machine—and it makes the process so much easier.
For any quilter doing free-motion quilting or even just quilting large bed-size quilts, this is such a GAME-CHANGER! I can confidently say that it made me enjoy the quilting process more—and not just the piecing part.
If you’ve ever said “I love piecing but dread the quilting,” this might be the machine that changes your mind.
🪡 Free Motion Quilting Is a Dream on This Machine
One of my favorite features is the convertible free-motion quilting (FMQ) foot that came with the Janome Horizon. It’s sturdy, easy to see through, and super smooth. I’ve used it for everything from gentle meandering to loops and feather designs, and it always performs reliably.
Another bonus? The interchangeable needle plate system. I often switch to the single-hole plate to prevent my fabric from being “eaten” at the beginning of seams—especially when working with thinner fabrics or small patchwork pieces. If you’ve dealt with this, you know what a relief this is.
🧷 Built-in Stitches, Alphabets & Features I Love
This machine comes packed with hundreds of built-in stitches, and while I haven’t used them all, I do have a few decorative favorites that I use for quilting.
The alphabet stitches are another gem. They’re simple to program, and I love using them to make quilt labels—a personal and professional touch that adds meaning to every quilt.
💬Janome Quilting Machine Review: Is the Janome Horizon Worth It for Quilters?
In short: Absolutely. I highly recommend it.
If you’re passionate about quilting, this is the kind of upgrade that can completely transform your workflow. After 11 years, this machine is still going strong—and I’ve never once wished I’d chosen something else.
Whether you’re tackling large quilts, diving into FMQ, or just want a reliable, high-quality machine that will grow with your skills, the Janome Horizon delivers.
Back in 2013, this was a big purchase for me. But looking back now, I can confidently say—it was absolutely worth every penny. Ny the way, the price is not as expensive as I bought it in 2013, but I bet you the quality remains.
Check out the price of Janome Horizon Memory Craft 8200 today HERE>
I never felt the need to keep upgrading because this machine has continued to serve me well for over a decade.
If you’re someone who:
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Quilts regularly (especially large quilts),
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Wants to explore or improve your free-motion quilting,
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Is tired of cramped throat spaces and muscle aches,
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Or simply wants a solid, reliable machine that grows with you…
…then I highly recommend considering a machine with a larger throat like the Janome Horizon, or similar models. I’ll be linking to some affiliate options I’ve researched or personally tried, so feel free to check those out if you’re in the market for an upgrade.
🔍 FAQs: Janome Quilting Machine Review: Janome Horizon for Quilters
Q: Is the Janome Horizon good for free-motion quilting?
Yes! It comes with a convertible FMQ foot, smooth stitching, and generous throat space—making it ideal for beginners and experienced free-motion quilters.
Q: What makes the Janome Horizon better than basic machines for quilting?
Mainly: throat space, precision, quiet operation, and bonus features like the needle plate system and stitch memory.
Q: Is the Janome Horizon worth the investment?
If quilting is your passion or business—it’s a solid yes. Mine has lasted over a decade and still runs like a dream.
🛒 Ready to Upgrade Your Quilting Game?
If you’re considering investing in a machine with more space and features, I’ve curated a list of sewing machine options that are perfect for quilters—from reliable models for beginners to more advanced picks.
👉 Click here to browse my top sewing machine picks for quilters
Whether you quilt for fun, therapy, or income—having the right machine makes all the difference. My Janome Horizon has not only saved me time and frustration, but it’s also brought more joy into my creative process.
Happy National Sewing Machine Day, and happy quilting!
Comment down below what’s your favourite part of your machine!
💛
Amira
