Janome 3160qdc Review & Buying Guide
When I first saw the Janome 3160qdc sewing machine, I thought it might be a good basic sewing machine, but when I really took the time to look at it, I noticed the large stitch selection panel on the right-hand side, the multiple function buttons, the backlit LCD display panel, the bright LED work light and extra large needle plate with etched seam guides, and easy to follow threading guide. That’s when the Janome 3160qdc sewing machine really got my attention.
Preparing the Janome 3160qdc sewing machine for sewing is as easy as it could be. Clear, easy-to-follow guides take you through each step in winding the bobbin and threading the machine.
A clear plastic cover makes it easy to determine when the bobbin thread is running low and the oversized needle plate has easy-to-read etched seam guides.
The stitch selection process is easy to master. With the stitch selection guide mounted right on the front panel, all the user has to do is find the appropriate stitch number and use the directional buttons on the upper panel to lock it in.
For this review, I tested the chain stitch for definition and durability as well as a few of the decorative stitches. Each and every stitch option I attempted came out flawlessly. The stitch definition in even the dense decorative stitches was perfect.

The straight chain stitches produced by the Janome 3160qdc computerized sewing machine had a delicate yet sturdy quality reminiscent of the much admired beautiful stitchwork produced by vintage sewing machines… the type of stitchwork that many of today’s sewing machine manufacturers strive for, but are unable to fully achieve.
Janome 3160qdc review & Features
Key Features
- Extended free arm
- Simplified navigation keys
- LCD screen with backlight
- Adjustable foot pedal pressure
- Superior Plus Feed System with 7-piece feed dog
- Drop feed dog
- Extended needle plate
- Start/stop button
- Built-in, one-hand needle threader
- Speed adjustment (slider)
- Memorized needle up/down
- Auto lockstitch button
- Numbered threading path
- Adjustable pressure dial
- Onboard accessories storage compartment
- Needle up/down button
- Start/stop button
- Reverse button
- Auto-lock button
- Free arm / flat bed convertible
- Fold down carrying handle
Janome 3160qdc Review & Specs
Specs
- Weight: 12.6 lbs.
- Dimensions: 15 x 8.4 x 6.9 inches.
- Stitches: 60 built-in stitches.
- Speed: 820 spm.
- Computerized/Mechanic: Computerized.
- Bobbin: Drop-in bobbins.
- Warranty: 25-year warranty.
Janome 3160qdc review & Accessories
Accessories
- 7 Presser feet.
- Satin stitch foot.
- Zipper foot.
- Automatic buttonhole foot.
- Overedge foot.
- Blind hem foot.
- ¼-inch seam foot.
- Custom-crafted zigzag foot.
- Extra bobbins.
- Spool pin felt.
- Needle set.
- Additional spool pin.
- Seam ripper.
- Screwdriver key.
- Lint brush.
- Small spool holder.
- Large spool holder.
- Spool stand.
- Extension table.
- Hardcover.
- Instruction manual.
Janome 3160qdc review & Product Features
60 Built-In Stitches
The Janome 3160qdc computerized sewing machine comes with 60 built-in stitches. These include basic straight stitches, zigzag stitches, decorative stitches, and six different buttonholes. This collection isn’t excessive but does provide you with a handy range that will serve hemming projects or a more complicated quilt.
Bobbin
Janome 3160qdc computerized sewing machine has a drop-in bobbin system. This means your bobbins are loaded at the top, as such, there’s no need to remove a compartment at the front of the machine; the bobbin is right near the needle plate. Once you have it threaded, you can just slide open the door, slide in the bobbin, and you’re all set. If something goes wrong, you can see to it right away and access it without effort.
LCD Screen
Because the Janome 3160qdc sewing machine is computerized, it features an LCD screen. With it, you can view what stitch is selected, the stitch length and width, and any other options you’ve picked with the controls. The screen makes it incredibly easy to determine your options and double-check on your progress. Even better, it’s easy to read and very clear.
Needle Threader
The Janome 3160qdc computerized sewing machine also has an automatic needle threader. While this may seem like a small addition it saves a ton of time. No more hassle threading your sewing machine and no need to dig out your reading glasses!
Controls
The controls on the Janome computerized sewing machine are very simple to use. With just a few buttons, you can change your stitch selection, start or stop the machine, cut the thread, change the stitch length or width, or choose the reverse or lock stitch functions.No need to adjust dials or press levers; just press a button and get your sewing project done in no time!
Easy to Set Up

This Janome could not be easier to set up – and that’s partly credited to the LCD screen and the automatic needle threader. The machine handles the routine details you’d rather ignore, and keeps your status clear on the computerized screen. You won’t have to have knowledge of sewing machines before jumping in, Janome makes it easy for crafters of all types to get sewing. You can easily unbox the machine, have the automatic threader ready for the Janome for a project, and then immediately select your stitch details. After that, you can dive in!
Easy to Use
Testers also noted this machine as simplistic to operate. Just press the foot pedal, or click the “on” and “off” buttons, and you can begin sewing. If you need to cut a thread after a stitch, just press a button! If you need to do a reverse stitch, there’s a button for that too. You can also adjust the speed of the machine by pressing the foot pedal or by using the slider on the front. It’s that simple! Whether you’re just starting out, or have been sewing for some time, Janome ensures that this machine won’t be a complicated feat.
Versatile
With so many different stitches, feet you can add on, and a range of features, there are very few limitations with this Janome. Whether you’re tackling simple projects or creating an entirely new wardrobe, this sewing machine has everything you need. The extension table allows sewers to not be limited by the size of this compact machine. It can just as easily assist with larger projects too. Chances are, with the number of features this machine has, you’ll be inspired to let your creativity shine.
Great for Beginners
Since this machine is easy to set up and a breeze to use, the Janome 3160qdc sewing machine is great for those just starting out. A number of customers purchased this as a gift for the budding sewer in their life and loved that they were easily able to use and fall in love with this machine. The automatic features are incredibly helpful, and the bobbin system is jam-proof, so new users are less likely to make a mistake. Since it’s portable, beginners are easily able to carry this with them to classes or wherever they’re learning their new skills. It can be daunting to start a new hobby with a large learning curve, fortunately, Janome makes it easy to adjust.