Yeah, some of my issues also. Preset stitches, no speed control or needle up/down. And that darn lift up lever sticking out to the right so my hand hits it all the time. I am trying to win a machine and also plan for a purchase just incase I don't win one. I will look at Janome first but I would so love a Bernina but will not spend the money. I may even look at a Brother at a dealers. But I always check out user reviews no matter what.

Diane in Wyoming

I have what I think is the original Janome Gem. It is basically worthless to me. I have a dial with a choice of three stitch lengths. The smaller is too small, but great for paper piecing, the next is too long, and the third is a basting stitch. It's just too small and clunky for me! I paid $150 for it at Festival a few years ago. It did not come with a case.

I was lucky enough to win a BL9 with a small quilt that I made for a contest at our LQS, and it will replace my Gem. I can adjust my stitch length, and it is a little bigger, so doesn't bounce on the tabletop when I am sewing too fast for it. It will get it's major test drive at retreat in a couple of weeks.

Dawn
In beautiful Northwest Montana

Although my Janome Jem sewed beautifully I opted to get rid of it. It was so small and my hand was constantly flipping up the take up lever. I sew love my Janome 6600 I prefer to take it to classes. I am shopping for a machine that will be good for teaching the granddaughters and have my list of options that I insist on. I have already taught one to sew on my 6600. I use http://www.patternreview.com to read reviews of sewing machine users. I sold my 2002 for 125.00 but didn't advertise much and we live in such a rural area. This machine has the reputation of being a work horse by clothing sewists! My 2 cents.
Diane in Wyoming

Terry, did you google it? There are a couple of different ones on Amazon but I guess they are new ones.

Could you contact a Janome Dealer?

Anybody have an idea of the value of a 2004-2005 Janome Gem? Or, where to look to find the value? Your help is appreciated!!!

I've seen a lot of Janome Sew Mini machines in classes. They do a good job and of course very portable. I think they are excellent for anyone that can't tote/lift a heavier machine.

I have a Janome Sew Mini that I take with me when I travel. I would be embarassed to take it to a class because it looks like a toy, but for paper piecing in a hotel room, it's wonderful!

Chelley

I never thought much about the Gems until some of my students came to class with a Platinum model. Very cool, versatile little machine for a little over $300 or so. When I get a new job and can think about taking classes again I may invest.

Tama

I got the Kenmore version of this (which I too love for piecing) at Sears and saved some money - to buy more fabric, of course. Waiting for Janome to come out with a machine that has a stitch regulator, and then I'm buying yet another machine.

This is an excellent machine for taking to class and for piecing. I find it use it more than my big fancy machine when I'm piecing blocks. I can't do without the Janome 1/4 foot, this foot has changed my accuracy 100% for the better.

Sewbug