Janome Memory Craft 400E Review
The Janome Memory Craft 400E is an embroidery-focused sewing machine that comes packed with powerful features to take your embroidery projects to the next level. As part of Janome’s expansive line of quality sewing machines, the 400E delivers the excellence in construction and ease of use that Janome is known for.
In this detailed review, we will provide a comprehensive look at the Janome Memory Craft 400E based on hands-on use and expert opinions. Read on to learn everything you need to know about this embroidery machine!
Embroidery Capabilities
As an embroidery-only machine, the Janome Memory Craft 400E is dedicated solely to embroidery, unlike combo sewing and embroidery machines. This specialized design allows it to excel at embroidery and provide a robust set of features tailored specifically for embroiderers.
The star of the show is definitely the large 7.9″ x 7.9″ embroidery field. This expansive area allows you to stitch even large, complex designs without having to split them into sections. If you regularly work on embroidery projects for jackets, sweatshirts, blankets, and other large items, you will appreciate being able to load a whole design at once.
In addition to the ample embroidery space, the 400E comes equipped with 160 built-in embroidery designs and 6 lettering fonts. From floral motifs to scrollwork borders, the built-in selection allows you to get started embroidering right out of the box. The machine makes monogramming easy with the included fonts. Whether personalizing gifts, clothing items, or craft projects, you’ll have plenty of designs at your fingertips.
And if 160 options aren’t enough, you can import unlimited designs right to your machine thanks to the built-in USB port. Simply load embroidery patterns you purchased or digitized yourself onto a USB stick and upload them directly to your 400E. With virtually endless design possibilities, you’ll never run out of creative options for your embroidery projects.
Overall, the Janome Memory Craft 400E provides an incredibly robust set of embroidery features. The spacious embroidery field, multitude of built-in designs, and USB connectivity make it a powerhouse embroidery machine.
Recommended product: Cutebee 6-Pack Embroidery Machine Needles allows easy embroidery machine needle changes with an assortment size pack.
LCD Touch Screen
One of the best features of the 400E is the backlit LCD touch screen display. The screen provides an intuitive interface for selecting designs, editing, and operating your embroidery machine.
Unlike displays on older embroidery machines, the LCD touch screen allows you to edit designs right on your machine without needing a computer. Enlarging, reducing, rotating, flipping, duplicating – you can do it all with simple taps and drags on the screen. The display makes it easy to position designs exactly where you want them in the hoop.
Another advantage of the LCD screen is the ability to view embroidery designs in full, realistic color before stitching. You can preview the completed look on-screen and simulate how the design will embroider. Combined with the editing functions, the LCD touch screen gives you complete control over your embroidery projects from start to finish.
The backlit display also makes navigating machine operations and settings simple and straightforward. Whether selecting built-in designs, changing options, or viewing tutorials, the LCD screen provides an intuitive, user-friendly experience. For user-friendly embroidery machine operation, the Janome Memory Craft 400E’s LCD touch screen is a standout feature.
Recommended product: Amadol 10-Pack Embroidery Hoops allow you to easily view and edit designs on the LCD display.
Key Features
In addition to its robust embroidery capabilities, the Janome Memory Craft 400E comes equipped with many convenient features to make your embroidery work faster, easier, and more precise.
One huge time-saving feature is the automatic thread cutter. This cuts both the top and bobbin threads automatically after each design is finished stitching. Say goodbye to manually snipping jump stitches! The automatic needle threader is also invaluable for effortlessly threading the eye of the needle every time.
Several features contribute to a smoother embroidery experience. The easy set bobbin can be popped in and out of its housing quickly for bobbin changes. Bobbins are a cinch to wind with the built-in bobbin winding system. The machine also has a bobbin thread sensor to alert you when bobbin thread is running low.
For precise design placement, the 400E provides adjustable hoop positioning as well as flexibility in stitching movement. You can move the hoop to exactly where you need it for perfect alignment. When stitching, you have control over stitch-by-stitch movement as well as jumping 10 or 100 stitch increments. These features result in professional design alignment and stitching accuracy.
Additionally, the machine includes programmable jump stitch trimming. This automatically trims any jump stitches within a design sequence, saving you time on trimming between color blocks or design sections. This contributes to a professional, polished embroidery finish.
With conveniences like automatic threading and cutting, effortless bobbin handling, and precision stitch placement, the Janome Memory Craft 400E provides everything you need for fast, easy embroidery projects.
Recommended product: Aurubuti 12 Pack Embroidery Bobbin Thread allows you to keep your machine stocked with quality bobbin thread.
Janome Memory Craft 400E Specifications
| Specification | Description |
|---|---|
| Machine Type | Embroidery-only |
| Maximum Embroidery Size | 7.9″ x 7.9″ |
| Built-in Designs | 160 built-in designs, 6 fonts |
| Embroidery Speed | 400 – 860 stitches per minute |
| LCD Touch Screen | 3.7″ backlit color LCD touch screen |
| Needle Threading System | Automatic needle threader |
| Bobbin System | Drop-in bobbin, bobbin winder |
| Embroidery Hoops Included | 7.9″ x 7.9″ hoop, template sheets |
| Connectivity | USB port for design import |
| Warranty | 5 years limited, 10 years limited electronic |
| Machine Weight | 24 lbs |
| Machine Dimensions | 20″ x 11.25″ x 12″ |
Ease of Use
Considering its impressive array of features, you may think operating the Janome Memory Craft 400E involves a steep learning curve. However, many users report finding the machine easy to learn and use overall, even as embroidery beginners.
The machine offers simple setup right out of the box. After quick assembly, you can have the machine threaded, a hoop attached, and a design loaded on the screen in minutes. Janome’s documentation provides clear visual step-by-step instructions on the machine’s basic operation.
Learning how to use editing and machine functions is intuitive with the LCD touch screen interface. All of your design selection, editing, and stitching options are accessible right on the display. Detailed on-screen tutorials walk you through how to use the machine’s features. Even embroidery novices can grasp the basics through the user-friendly design.
While the included manual may not be comprehensive for mastering all embroidery techniques, there are many in-depth video tutorials available online. Janome dealers often include video training with machine purchases as well. With some guidance from tutorials to supplement the manual, both beginners and experts can get the most from this embroidery-only machine.
For those looking to get started with embroidery or upgrade from manual operation, the simplicity and user-friendliness of the Janome Memory Craft 400E makes it easy to learn. With some practice using the machine’s features, even embroidery novices can feel confident creating beautiful designs.
Recommended product: HUIFEE Embroidery Starter Kit provides beginners with threads, needles, and supplies to learn.
Drawbacks
While the Janome Memory Craft 400E excels as an embroidery machine, there are some drawbacks to consider based on your sewing and embroidery needs.
As an embroidery-only machine, it does not offer any built-in sewing capabilities. Janome sells this model as a complement to their sewing machines for quilters and seamstresses who want to add embroidery. For those seeking an all-in-one sewing and embroidery machine, this lack of versatility could be a disadvantage.
The learning curve may also be steep for complete embroidery beginners. As discussed above, new users report the machine is fairly easy to learn. However, the manual itself provides limited guidance on using all its advanced features or mastering embroidery techniques. Taking the time to supplement with online tutorials is highly recommended.
Finally, some users note the machine operates at a high noise level when running at full speed. The 400E can reach up to 400 to 860 stitches per minute, which equates to a good deal of noise. While noisy operation is typical for embroidery machines, it’s something to be aware of, especially if you plan to use it in a quiet setting.
While not dealbreakers for most, these drawbacks are worth considering when deciding if the Janome Memory Craft 400E is the right embroidery machine for your needs. With its specialized design and advanced feature set, it’s ideal for those seeking a high-quality embroidery-focused machine.
Janome Memory Craft 400E Review: Conclusion
After taking an in-depth look at its capabilities, features, and ease of use, it’s clear the Janome Memory Craft 400E is an exceptional embroidery machine. For embroiderers seeking professional results and versatility, it hits all the marks.
The spacious 7.9″ embroidery field, multitude of built-in designs, and nearly unlimited imported design capability make it a embroidery powerhouse. Conveniences like the automatic thread cutter, effortless threading and bobbin features, and the LCD touch screen add convenience to the robust functionality. Despite its array of advanced features, it also offers a reasonable learning curve for beginners.
For dedicated embroiderers who want quality construction and user-friendly operation, the Janome 400E is sure to satisfy. With its combination of premium design focused on embroidery and Janome’s reputation for excellence, the Janome Memory Craft 400E is easy to recommend for any embroidery enthusiast.