The Janome 3160 QDC sewing machine was built with quilters in mind. All the best quilting needs are built right in! Want to do other types of sewing? No problem.
Beautiful stitches are a given with Janomes but you’re also going to get an extra long extension table, the latest feed dog system, complete button operation for all functions and the whole thing is packed into a full-size machine that weighs just over 12 pounds.
Table of Contents
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Stitch Count / Presser Feet / Functionality / Accessories / Customer Reviews / Pros, Cons & Manual
REVIEW SUMMARY
MODEL: Janome 3160QDC Sewing Machine
REVIEWED BY: Erin
RATING: 4.5 
LAST UPDATED: April 9, 2015
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Check out these Stitches
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There are a total of 60 built in stitches including six different 1-step buttonhole styles. Utility stitches that secure, attach, and connect fabrics, buttons, and zippers are all included.
Decorative stitches, satin stitches, heirloom designs, popular quilting stitches – they’re here, too.
You know those ice cream places where you get to pick your own toppings and get them mixed in? This machine is kind of like that – some fruit, some nuts, some cookie dough…enough variety to keep you occupied for a long time.
Stitch length is adjustable to 5mm and stitch width is adjustable to 7mm.
Stitch selection is accomplished through the four arrow keys on the front of the sewing machine. Those four keys are also used to set choose the settings for each stitch.
This image shows you samples of each stitch.
Nice Assortment of Presser Feet
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Moving from one stitch type to another is a breeze with snap-on presser feet that are incredibly easy to snap on and off. You get the following presser feet:
- Satin Stitch Foot
- Zipper Foot
- Automatic Buttonhole Foot
- Overedge Foot
- Blind Hem Foot
- ¼” Presser Foot
- Custom Crafted Zigzag Foot (acts as a general presser foot but with a wider toe for a better view of the stitches as they’re being laid down)
Features and Functionality
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Even basic setup tasks are automated and use the most updated technology so getting this machine up and running is goof proof.
Easy Set Up
- Automatic needle threader
- Automatic bobbin winder
- Drop in bobbin
Computerized Automation Buttons
The computerized operations are well marked and easy to see. Buttons on the front of the machine control almost anything you need including snipping the top and bottom threads when you’re done sewing:
- Start/stop button (sew without the foot pedal!)
- Speed control slider
- Reverse button
- Auto-lock button
- Needle up/down
- Thread cutter
Thread Control
If you haven’t sewn before, it can be kind of intimidating. You may have heard horror stories from your friends or family about sewing machines that eat fabric or snarl thread. Janome machines are great at eliminating these kinds of problems. You can actually sew right off the fabric and your thread won’t jam. Other thread and fabric features include:
- Horizontal thread delivery
- Easy threading
- Superior Feed System PLUS – like having a walking foot built into the sewing machine, the superior 7 piece feed dogs with boxed feed pattern are enhanced with additional feed support so your fabric moves smoothly through the machine. No skipped stitches.
Enhanced Sewing Functions
- Adjustable presser foot pressure
- Drop feed dog lever
- Adjustable top thread tension
- Free arm sewing
Machine Design
This unique needle plate they mention actually has a patent pending. There are more lines than previous needle plates as well as angled lines to help with cornering and creative projects.
- Extra long free arm
- Extra long extension table to support your larger quilting projects
- Backlit LCD
- Maximum speed of 820 stitches per minute
- Horizontal retractable type spool pin
- LED lamp
- Horizontal rotary hook
- Skeleton type body constructions
- Folding carry handle
- Additional spool pin can be used to wind bobbin thread without unthreading the top thread.
Lots of time saving features mean you can focus more on sewing and less on finicky machine operations.
Dimensions: TBD
Weight: 12.56 pounds
Accessories
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This has the coolest accessory tray. Rather than removing the extension table to reach inside for accessories, just flip down the storage tray on the front of the machine. All of your presser feet and sewing notions can be kept readily accessible even if you’re in the middle of some stitch work.
Accessories include:
- 3 bobbins
- 1 spool pin felt
- 3 extra needles
- Additional spool pin
- Seam Ripper
- Screwdriver (key style)
- Lint brush
- 2 spool holders (large and small)
- Spool stand for oversized thread spools
- Hard cover
Customer Reviews
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There aren’t a lot of reviews online as this machine is still relatively new, however, those that I’ve found are clearly divided. Some LOVE this machine. Some complain of a problem with tangled threads. This is interesting (frustrating would probably be the word others would use…) because this is not the sort of thing you hear about Janomes.
My guess (and it’s just a guess at this point) is that the combination of adjustable presser foot pressure and adjustable thread tension AND the SFS+ feed dog system may mean that settings, thread, and needle need to be just right for each type of fabric. If you’re new to sewing, this might not be the best machine. However, if you’re looking for a a sewing machine that will let you fine-tune settings for different fabrics and threads and are comfortable doing so, this is a tempting choice.
Average Rating: 4.5
Pros, Cons & Manual
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Pros: Pressure foot pressure, easily accessible accessory storage tray, Superior Feed System, speed control slider, drop feed dog lever.
Cons: Not sure about the light weight of the machine standing up to really large quilt projects. Some users have reported issues with the bobbin and having to have the case replaced.
Manual available online here: Manual
Manufacturer’s Warranty: In the US, as of this date, the Janome JNH1860 sewing machine comes with a 20 year warranty on parts, 2 years on electrical, 1 year on labor and may be voided by certain activities.
This machine is only available through a dealer. To find the nearest dealer check the link below.
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Features Summary Review:
Is there a more powerful work light available for this machine? I love the machine and have a well lit work space, but a close work light that is brighter would help.
Linda – I don’t think you can replace the bulb with one that is more powerful but you might try something like the Fulcrum Multi-Flex LED Task Light. You could attach it to a nearby book or stand and then position the neck just where you need it most. Also helpful for close-work done off of the machine. 😉
Sincerely,
Erin
I just opened my box. I have a brand new 3160 machine. Is there a carrying case for this machine, and does it need a walking foot, and a darning or quilting foot for quilting? I have a 660 with all these extras, but no way to drop the feed dogs. I am a sewer, but do a lot of quilting.
I am just considering buying this machine too. The case comes with it. It fits over top and the handle is on the machine. Good luck with it new toy
I bought this machine and it’s a great machine. So much lighter than my 830 Bernina to haul for sewing groups. It’s quite, and smooth.. If you sew you’ll understand.. I love mine hope if you get one you’ll love it also..
I bought my QDC from a local small shop and they gave training for Janome machines. They said that the carrying case should not be used for long term storage, since it is not vented which can cause moisture to accumulate and damage the machine. Other than that, I have used it for a few lightweight projects and am very pleased with it.
I bought this machine several months ago and LOVE IT! Very easy to use, light weight for class. Very nice machine!
I have had this machine for almost two years. I struggle each time I have to change a needle. I cannot easily slip the new needle into the correct slot. First time I have ever had this problem.
Any help?
Thanks,
Lynn