The Janome sewing machine Skyline S9 is a member of the Janome Skyline S family, which is Janome’s product line for hybrid sewing/quilting machines. The Skyline S9, however, is quite special even among the Skyline S series, because it can also be used as an embroidery machine.
As a Janome sewing machine, we can expect the Skyline S9 to be well-built and rich in features.
In fact, with the 3-in-1 functionality of sewing, quilting, and embroidery machine, the features can be overwhelming. Most hybrid machines, however, often suffer from being a jack-of-all-trade, master of none. So, in this review, we will examine whether that is also the case with the Skyline S9.
Let us begin by first taking a quick look at the key features of the Janome sewing machine Skyline S9.
Key Features of Janome Sewing Machine Skyline S9
Image Credit: Janome
Embroidery Unit
If you are familiar with the Skyline S series, you will notice that the Skyline S9 looks very similar to the Skyline S3 and S7. However, there is an obvious difference in the embroidery unit, which is permanently attached to the Skyline S9. When you use the embroidery mode, the embroidery unit will swing out of the Janome Skyline S9. As a result of this additional unit, the foot of the Skyline S9 is also a bit bigger compared to other Skyline S machine. This is actually a good thing since it provides more stability.
Easy-To-Navigate Controls
As with newer Janome sewing machine products, there is a start/stop button. The start/stop function will be very useful when you want to pause a sewing job, where you can easily resume later. There is also a similar design stop button for embroidery works, which is very useful. Besides those, there are the function buttons, thread tie/off, a variable speed control slider, and presser foot control.
LCD Touch Screen
Along with all those nice control features, there is also an LCD Touch Screen. You can use the touchscreen control for selecting stitches, embroidery designs, and many more. It is fairly easy to use considering the number of stitch selections and embroidery designs the Skyline S9 provides.
Stitch and Embroidery Design Selections
The Janome sewing machine Skyline S9 offers 300 total stitch selections for both utility and decorative stitches. It also features 11 one-step buttonholes and 250 embroidery designs, including 40 exclusive Anna Maria Horner designs. Last but not least, there are 20 available fonts for monogramming. A very rich stitch selections.
Technical Specs
Image Credit:Janome
In summary, here are the technical specifications of the Janome sewing machine Skyline S9
Stitch and Design Options:
- 300 total stitch options (utility and decorative)
- 11 buttonholes (one-step_
- 250 embroidery designs, 40 Anna Maria Horner designs
- 20 fonts for monogramming
Control:
- Locking stitch button
- Start/stop button
- Reverse/lock stitch button
- Automatic thread cutting feature
- Presser foot control
Other Features:
- Free arm embroidery feature
- On-screen editing
- Jump thread trimming, programmable
- Stitch traveling speed selections: 1,10,100 and 500 stitches
- Adjustable hoop position
- 91 needle position
- Very high presser foot
- Drop-in bobbin with rotary hook
- Wi-Fi, USB, direct PC connection for data transfer
- Automatic tension control
- Variable zig-zag stitch feature
- Knee lift function
- AcuFeed™ Flex fabric feeding system
Our Review
Image Credit: Janome
As you can see, there is no shortage of features from the Janome sewing machine Skyline S9. Again, if you are familiar with other Skyline S machines, you will see a lot of similarities in functions. For instance, setting the bobbin in place and winding it is very similar, as also the process to thread the machine.
You can use the enormous stitch or design pattern included onboard. However, if you want to use your own design, you can easily connect the Skyline S9 to your PC or use a USB drive. However, besides those two initial functions, the differences to other Skyline S machines will be seen.
First, let us discuss the embroidery function. To activate it, simply go into the menu of the LCD touch screen and select the embroidery function. Flip a switch on the back of the machine, and the embroidery unit will swing open. Then, you can select the embroidery design you want to use. Select the hoop that will suit your purpose, lock it into place, and you are good to go.
Now, the sewing and quilting mode. The sewing mode of the Janome sewing machine Skyline S9 is just as nice as other Skyline S machines. Even on the highest speed of 1000 stitches per minute, it is fairly quiet. You can definitely feel that the Skyline S9 is very well-built and rigid, allowing very consistent and efficient work.
Our Verdict, Pros, and Cons
After our thorough test of the Janome sewing machine Skyline S9, here are what we liked and disliked about it.
Pros:
- Very durable and well-made
- 3-in-1 sewing, quilting and embroidery machine
- Rich features, a wide range of stitch and design selections
- Easy to use even with all the features
- Easy to maintain and repair
Cons:
- Expensive, not for everyone
- For the price, you can buy better standalone sewing, quilting or embroidery machine
Being a fairly expensive machine, the Janome sewing machine Skyline S9 is worth every penny if you are looking for a machine that can do sewing, embroidery, and quilting. However, if you are looking for only one specific function, you are better off with a standalone machine considering its price.
If you are only looking for the sewing and quilting functionality, we felt that the Skyline S3 is a better overall pick for its affordability.
Leave a Reply