Janome Xpression FM 725 Review
As felting machines like the Janome Xpression FM 725 are no longer available online, needle felting enthusiasts have limited options for purchasing these specialty machines. However, this model remains one of the most popular options for serious hobbyists looking to add mechanized felting capabilities to their crafting arsenal. With the growing interest in needle felting for creating wool art, jewelry, clothing embellishments, and more, many are seeking out used Janome felting machines or finding alternate ways to get their hands on this versatile tool.
In this Janome Xpression FM 725 review, we’ll take an in-depth look at how this machine works, its key features and benefits, felting techniques, recommended projects, and comparisons to other models. Whether you come across a used Janome for sale or are weighing up your felting machine options, read on for the details on this staple tool for needle crafting.
Janome Xpression FM 725 Needle Felting Machine
The Janome Xpression FM 725 is a mechanical needle felting machine designed specifically for the purpose of felting fabric and fiber. It uses a series of barbed needles to tangle and mesh wool roving and fabrics to produce felted material. This fast and precise technique creates a different effect compared to traditional hand needle felting.
Here are some quick facts about the Janome felting machine:
- Produces 900 punctures per minute with 5 felting needles
- Does not require thread, bobbins, or sewing experience
- Suitable for felting wool, silks, felt, denim, and other fabrics
- Adjustable finger guard and presser foot for visibility
- Removable extension table for free arm felting
But what exactly is needle felting, and how does the Janome machine work? The process of felting involves tacking layers of wool roving or fabric with the barbed needles so that the fibers lock together. As the needles punch through the materials, the angled barbs catch the fibers and push them through the layers to mesh everything together. The high speed of the repetitive needling causes friction and compression that causes the fibers to become permanently entangled.
Janome Xpression FM 725 Key Features
- 5-needle fixed punching unit
- 900 punctures per minute
- 5-hole needle plate
- Single hole needle plate
- Interchangeable single needle unit
- Adjustable presser foot and finger guard
- Built-in light
- Removable lint box
- Free arm
| Specification | Description |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 14.5 x 7.5 x 11.5 inches |
| Weight | 25 lbs |
| Power | 120VAC 50/60Hz |
| Speed | 900 punctures/minute |
| Needles | Triangle, 38 gauge |
| Presser foot lift | 3/8 inches |
This felting machine gives fiber artists and crafters the option to speed up the felting process for larger projects or achieve unique textile effects not possible by hand needle felting alone. The adjustability and included accessories allow for versatile applications from felting wool yardage to embellishing garments or crafting jewelry. Next, we’ll look at the benefits of using this mechanized felting tool.
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Benefits and Capabilities of the Janome FM 725
While hand needle felting remains a popular technique for its precise control, the Janome felting machine offers several advantages:
Speed and Efficiency
The fast needle speed allows you to felt fabrics much quicker than by hand. For large yardage, bulky 3D sculptures, or multidimensional shapes, the Janome FM 725 dramatically speeds up the felting process by mechanically punching the fibers together. This can help save time when working on major projects or producing multiple felt pieces.
Ease of Use
The Janome machine is fairly user-friendly for a beginner needle felter. The adjustability of the presser foot and guards allow you to protect your fingers while maintaining visibility on your work. With the included hole plates and needle units, you can easily switch out setups to accommodate different fabric thicknesses.
Creativity and Flexibility
Since it doesn’t require thread or the constraints of stitching, this machine offers creative possibilities beyond regular sewing or embroidery. The Janome allows you to experiment layering fabrics and fibers not possible by hand felting. You can achieve unique color blends, attach appliques, create laminated fabrics, and more.
Felting Variety of Fabrics
While wool is the most common material for needle felting, the Janome felting machine can actually accommodate a wide array of fabrics including silks, felt, denim, alpaca fiber, and recycled materials like sari silk. The adjustability makes it suitable for delicate and dense fabrics alike.
Garment/Craft Embellishing
The removable free arm extension is perfect for sliding over cuffs, sleeves, and pant legs to embellish clothing or linens. The Janome FM 725 can be used to felt custom accents and motifs directly onto finished garments. Crafters can also utilize it to attached felted elements like flowers, animals, or shapes to projects.
For advanced fiber enthusiasts, the Janome FM 725 offers capabilities above and beyond handwork. Next we’ll go over some best practices for getting started with your machine.
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Using the Janome Felting Machine
Learning to use the Janome felting machine takes a little practice but is fairly straightforward once you get the hang of the setup and felting motion. Here are some tips for getting started:
Choosing Your Needle Plate
The included 5-hole needle plate works well for most standard wool felting with some lighter fabrics underneath. Make sure to switch to the open hole plate when working on thicker fabrics like denim or heavily felted wool. This prevents needle breakage from the tension.
Starting Slowly
When first figuring out the felting machine, begin slowly with lighter fabrics. Thinner layers will allow you to practice the motion before moving onto heavier projects. Take your time finding the felting rhythm. Rushing the process can lead to broken needles.
Holding the Fabric
The key is keeping the fabric taut and moving the felting machine over the surface, rather than moving the fabric itself. This prevents needles from snapping. Some people like to use embroidery hoops to hold smaller pieces.
Cleaning the Lint Box
Make sure to periodically clean out the lint box, especially when switching between colors. Built up debris under the needle plate can affect the felting performance. Simply detach and empty out the box.
Changing the Needles
Replace needles once they start to look worn – dull and slightly bent at the tip. When changing fixed needle bars, carefully snap needles close to the base to avoid damaging your project. Use pliers if needed.
Free Arm Felting
Take advantage of the removable extension table to access sleeves, legs, and other narrow spaces. The free arm makes it easy to embellish final projects.
When first getting acquainted with the Janome, go slowly and gradually increase your speed and pressure as you become more comfortable. Patience and taking precautions will help you avoid frustration and maximize your felting enjoyment!
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Felting Machine Accessories
The Janome Xpression FM 725 comes with a few handy accessories. Here’s an overview:
- Extra needles
- Additional 5-needle unit
- Single needle unit
- Open hole needle plate
- Tools like brush, screwdriver, wrench
To expand the versatility of your Janome felting machine, here are some additional accessories worth investing in:
Changeable Needle Unit – This allows you to replace individual needles as they break rather than the whole fixed bar. Highly recommended!
Extra Needles – Have plenty of backup triangle needles on hand for when they inevitably wear out. Can buy affordable ones here.
Variable Speed Foot Pedal – This gives you finer control over the needle speed versus just the on/off switch. Helpful for precision work.
Embroidery Hoops – Great for holding smaller pieces taut while felting. Prevents fabric movement and needle breaks.
Investing in some extras like replacement needles and a variable foot control will give you more creative possibilities and control with your Janome felting machine.
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Felting Materials and Project Ideas
Now that you understand the features and operation of the Janome Xpression FM 725, let’s explore some of the different materials you can felt and project ideas to spark your creativity:
Wool Roving – The most common felting material, wool roving comes in endless colors. Merino blends are great for beginners. Can also use uncarded locks.
Alpaca Fiber – Softer than sheep wool, alpaca is wonderful for jewelry or accessories. The Janome felts the delicate fibers nicely.
Silk Fabrics – Thin silks can be used as a base layer and felted into wool for lightweight scarves.
Recycled Sari Silk – Vibrant silk ribbons upcycle sari fabric for embellishing.
Felt – Wool felt can be laminated together for rigid bags, bowls, etc. Also good as a base.
Denim – Thick denim makes an ideal base for needle felting landscapes, animals, or patterns by machine.
Blended Fabrics – Get creative blending cotton, linen, silk, and wool pieces for unique fabrics.
3D Sculptures – Build up wool roving over foam or wire frames. The Janome speeds up the coverage process.
Wearables – Felt jewelry like earrings, brooches, or flowers on hats, scarves, and jackets.
Accessories – Line bags and purses with lightweight feltusing the Janome. Or add flowers and motifs.
Home Decor – Felt artwork, pillows, placemats, bowls. Embellish canvas tote bags and aprons.
With an endless color palette of wool and creative fabrics to blend, you’re limited only by your imagination. Enjoy the fast felting and embellishing capabilities that the Janome machine offers.
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Comparisons With Other Felting Machines
The Janome Xpression FM 725 is one of the more popular lightweight felting machine options for home crafters. How does it compare to alternatives on the market?
Simplicity Crafter’s Companion – This is another entry-level machine like the Janome. Key differences are the Janome’s superior needle configuration and slightly more power. The open arm Janome is also better for 3D and wearable projects.
Handi Felter – Made of plastic versus the Janome’s metal body, the Handi Felter is extremely lightweight and portable. However, it lacks the power and durability of the Janome for heavy duty projects.
Starlinger P1 – A step up in power and quality, this professional machine outperforms the Janome but comes at a steeper price point. Best suited for production work versus hobbying.
Clover Wanda – This unique tool has a rotating single needle and oscillating motor. It can embellish finished projects but doesn’t have the Janome’s felting surface versatility.
For serious fiber artists and crafters, the Janome FM 725 offers a nice middle ground of professional quality felting combined with budget friendliness. The availability of parts and accessories also makes it a smart choice compared to some competitor models.
While no longer available new online, the Janome remains in high demand for its reputation of quality and versatility. By purchasing used or exploring other avenues, it’s still possible get your hands on this staple felting machine.
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Where to Buy a Janome Felting Machine
Since retailers no longer carry the Janome Xpression FM 725, here are a few options for locating one to purchase:
- Check online marketplaces like eBay and Etsy for used Janome machines
- Search for local sellers in your area through Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace
- Connect with felting groups and forums to find someone selling a used Janome
- Consider buying an alternate felting machine conversion kit to DIY your own
- Look out for estate sales in your area that might have a Janome for sale
Be sure to inspect any used Janome thoroughly before purchasing. Replacement needles are affordable, but repairs to the machine body can be costly if issues arise down the line. With proper care and maintenance though, these felting machines can last for many years of fiber crafting enjoyment!
Current used prices range from $300-$500 based on age and condition. This represents an excellent value given the original $600+ retail cost when new.
The Bottom Line
For needle felting enthusiasts, the Janome Xpression FM 725 offers unmatched quality and capabilities compared to basic hand tools. This workhorse machine can transform the scale and scope of your wool art and fabric embellishment projects thanks to key advantages:
- Fast and consistent mechanized felting
- Adjustable features to accommodate any fabric
- Removable extension table for free arm versatility
- Rugged metal construction built to last
- Affordable used price point vs other machines
While no longer available new online, seeking out a used Janome FM 725 can be well worth it for the creative possibilities this machine unlocks. We hope this comprehensive Janome Xpression review gave you all the details to decide if it’s the right addition for your fiber toolkit!
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