If you've ever snapped a needle on vinyl or had to hand-crank through bulky bag seams, you'll know the struggle. Bagmaking isn't gentle sewing - it demands power.
That's why I got me the Janome HD9 and put it to the test. In this Janome HD9 review, I share my honest experience after nearly a year of sewing with it - plus the practical stuff bagmakers really need to know about the machine, like which extras to get and which to skip) - and a few SNEAKPEEKS of what's coming next 🙂
Here's all you need to know - speed, power, pros, cons, and whether it's the right choice for your sewing.
First, a snippet from my bagmaking life ↑↑ - this is the first bag pattern that I started and finished on my new Janome HD9, after sewing on more basic machines for years. The Elarina bag. - And I swear it practically made it herself! So smooth, so precise, and those topstitching layers? Handled like a dream. - Also, I'm working on a NEXT pattern (see below)
Table Of Contents
SUMMARY
Why I love the Janome HD9 sewing machine
Here's my personal experience with this machine - what makes it a game-changer for my bagmaking:
- Handles thick bag layers with such ease (my dream come true!)
- Smooth, even topstitching (and I mean even!)
- Big work space for large bag panels (and quilting!)
- Fits on my regular sewing desk - no bulky integrated industrial table
A closeup of me topstitching thick, foam-backed faux leather - and my HD9 breezed right through it - a perfect view for anyone wondering if that's the best sewing machine for making handbags!
Spoiler: here I was sewing the small size of a brand-new pattern… and oh my, the cuteness! It's still a while away (from draft to tested and polished, can take months), but I can't wait to share it with you.
And yes - AppleGreen Cottage patterns will always stay home-machine friendly. I love my HD9, but my promise is that every pattern works beautifully on a regular sewing machine too.
Unboxing Video
I've made a quick unboxing video for you, just so you see what you get in the box:
Why I chose the Janome HD9
I did my homework, asked around, and probably overthought it. Took me months, but the Janome HD9 always came out on top.
I've pulled together all the key things I needed to know (you probably too) - so you don't have to search around:
Janome heavy duty HD9 Features
- large throat space (9" by 6", luxury!) and large bed area
- no free arm (no sleeve sewing here!)
- straight stitch only. (true, you won't be sewing jersey with this one.)
- extra high Presser Foot Lift
- needle up and down position (Predetermined Stop Position of the Needle)
- automatic thread cutter is such a fancy feature! (It's loud, don't get scared! 🙂
- Knee-lifter - a lifesaver when both hands are busy wrestling vinyl into a curved gusset (bagmakers, you know the struggle!)
- 1,600 stitches per minute - the fastest home-use machine? I rarely sew at full speed, but if you like it, it's like driving a race car.
- it has a separate heavy weight thread guide, for that thick thread
And I'm sewing with it a lot (see the blue strap? That's for my next bag pattern, but I'm also creating a tutorial with special strap templates - soon to publish!).
Also, the machine's Tech Specs:
- dimensions: 19.6"W x 12.7"H x 7.2"D
- throat space 9" by 6" (so generous!)
- large bed area (12 ¼" by 7")
- 32 lbs - still OK to move around but I use both hands when carrying it
- Needle type: HLx5 (a pack comes with the machine, but for numbers, see table below)
Industrial Strength Without the Bulk!
Also, and this is a biggie for me, it fits on a regular sewing desk - no industrial table needed!
Unlike old-school industrial machines, the Janome HD9 doesn't come with a huge built-in table. Talk about space saving! You still get the power and precision of an industrial machine - all in a compact size that fits your sewing corner, no matter how small. That's priceless!
Standard accessories that come with the machine:
- 5 Jumbo Bobbins
- a lint brush
- a hemmer foot
- a spool cap
- a net and a spool holder for large spools
- two screwdrivers
- a cloth guide
- a pack of HLx5-14 needles
- a bottle of machine oil
- a knee lifter, and
- User Manual
Service history (research!)
I spoke to the repair service manager at my local Janome HD9 dealer before buying the machine. Twice. (It's the biggest seller of Janome machines in the area.) They said that since the Version 2 was introduced, they have NOT yet had a SINGLE repairwork on a Janome HD9 V2. Reassuring to know that.
Cons?
If I had to nitpick… the HD9 v2 comes with jumbo bobbins. They're great (hold 40% more thread!), but at first I wasn't thrilled about not being able to use my regular ones - and the starter 5-pack just wasn't enough. I was wishing for more right away. Thankfully, I found a great workaround (read on!).
Also, no extension table included. (For comparison, the Juki TL machines come with one as standard.) With the Janome HD9 you can buy 2 optional sizes, and I thought I'd need the big one. But honestly? The bed is already so roomy that I never missed it - so I don't really count this as a con. 🙂
The only problem I had with HD9: solved!
I need a bunch of bobbins to hold all sorts of thread, and you possibly too! Version 2 Jumbo Bobbins are fantastic (they hold 40% more thread!), well - they also cost more.
BUT I found the perfect solution: this budget-friendly pack with a case from CKPSMS. Perfect!! It's affordable, organized, and you'll have plenty from the start!
My HD9 Bobbin Fix!
This fixed my only Janome HD9 issue - jumbo bobbins at a great price (with a case!)
But to be honest, even if I sew a lot with the HD9 I still rotate in my Elna (see it in this beginner sewing machines review) and HD1800 when the project calls for it. And I always sew a sample of my new bag pattern on either of the two, just to make sure all my patterns are home-machine friendly.
Sewing vinyl? - Get this foot!
My second purchase (after xtra bobbins) were the teflon feet for vinyl. Smooth!
Specifically, the Janome teflon presser foot is called 'Janome Ultra Glide Foot (High Speed)' - look for Part Number 767404028
You can find it on Janome Junkies too. These folks are amazing - even if I wasn't a customer, they answered my question with such kindness. Gigi, HD, and Boki (you might also know them from JukiJunkies) run a family business in Florida with top-notch service. If you're in the US, you can get the HD9 or HD3000 from them, here.
Should I get the even feed foot for Janome HD9?
Here's one thing not every Janome HD9 user might agree with: the even feed foot on Janome HD9? I feel like I don't need it. I thought I should get it asap, but after getting the super glide foot - well, I haven't had a single issue with layers shifting on me. One deterrent is that the HD9 walking foot does not come with a guide - and it has no spot to install a separately-purchased one. I honestly hope Janome will change that some day.
To be fair, I use a Janome Walking foot all the time on the other machine, HD1800 - but that Janome foot is different from the one for HD9, and way better for me.
What Sewing Needle for Janome HD9?
That's important. The needle you'll use on your HD9 is not the usual one.
You need the HLx5 needle - it still has a flat shank, similar to home sewing machine needles. But, the flat side is turned 90 degree to the side when installing your needle. Good to know!
TIP: get the HLx5 90/14 Schmetz needles on Amazon here, and 100/16 here.
Needle size you need to use depends on the thread thickness and materials used with. Here are some basic guidelines for starters:
| Needle Size | Use Example | Thread thickness |
|---|---|---|
| HLx5 90/14 (come with the machine + Amazon) | Quilting cotton, lightweight canvas, cork, vinyl with lighter interfacing, and Decovil Light | regular home sewing thread or tex 45* |
| 100/16 (Amazon) | Heavier cotton canvas, multiple layers with Decovil Light | tex 45 or tex 70 |
| 110/18 | Thick vinyl, cork + foam + multi-layer seams | tex 70 |
*If you're new to heavy-weight thread, tex 45 and tex 70 are the industrial weight threads used on a Janome industrial sewing machine (not home!). They get you those beautiful, thick and shiny seams, but HD9 works perfectly with the usual, home sewing thread too.
Comparison Janome HD3000 and Janome HD9
I wrote a post about home heavy-duty machines and why I love Janome HD3000. Truth is, both are excellent, but they sit in very different categories. Here's a clear comparison to help you decide which one fits your sewing style and budget best.
Honestly, I sew with both, love them both. But there are a couple of things worth knowing if you're looking for sewing machines for bags.
First thing to know, when comparing raw power, the HD3000 (which I truly enjoy sewig bags with!) actually has the motor strength of a regular domestic machine - likely quite similar to your current one. More:
| Feature | Janome HD3000 | Janome HD9 (v2) |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Domestic heavy-duty | Semi-industrial |
| Stitches | 18 built-in (incl. zigzag + buttonhole) | Straight stitch only |
| Speed | 860 SPM | 1,600 SPM (fastest home-use machine) |
| Motor Power | ~0.5 amp (55W) | ~0.8 amp (95W) |
| Bobbin | Standard top-loading bobbin | side, vertical loading, Jumbo bobbin |
| Weight | ~23 lbs | ~32 lbs |
| Workspace | A bit larger domestic size, 6.5" throat space | Large bed, 9" throat space |
| Price Range | $400-600 USD | $1,000+ USD |
| Best For | Beginners & hobby bagmakers | Advanced sewists & small businesses |
To sum up, the HD9 is in a whole different category. It's a true bagmaking machine. But it does come with a cost: in addition to the janome hd9 price - the parts, specialty feet (you'll definitely need a Teflon foot - around $30 on Amazon, $100 in our local shop), and even the large bobbins cost more. So your budget will play a big part in that decision.
I made 2 bags: one on Janome HD1800, and one on Janome HD9
Just for reference: I sewed one of Elarina bag pattern prototypes on the HD1800 (in short, European version of HD3000), and another one on the HD9. Both handled the thick seams well, though I did have to hand-crank through the bulkiest part on the HD1800, while the HD9 handled it like a breeze - I haven't even come close to pushing it to its limit. (see bag photos in my shop)
I hope this helps clarify things!
What is the difference between Janome 1600P-QC and Janome HD9?
Janome 1600P-QC is the older model on which Janome HD9 is based. They look almost the same, but the HD9 gives you a few key improvements that make a big difference for bagmakers and anyone sewing thick layers.
- Threading - HD9 has a sturdier setup that makes sewing with thick threads feel smooth and easy.
- Bobbins - standard on the 1600P-QC, but the HD9's jumbo bobbins hold 40% more thread (yay for fewer stops to rewind!).
- Extras - a bigger, comfier foot pedal and extra durability make the HD9 a little nicer to sew on.
→ See Janome 1600P-QC on Amazon
My opinion? The 1600P-QC is a solid machine - but HD9 takes it further. I'd pick HD9 again in a heartbeat.
Helpful Tips For Sewing with Janome HD9 - And Questions Answered
Now, as promised, a list of tips and ideas to make it easier for you:
The SCHMETZ HLx5 High-Speed Quilting Needles. This is a specific needle designed for high-speed professional quilting machines - that's Janome HD9 too. It has a Slightly Rounded Special Taper Point
and a regular eye. Small size 75/11 is pink, 90/14 size is blue, 100/16 largest size is purple. I use the blue one.
Have you heard of the Janome Junkies YT channel? Their videos are super helpful, especially when you're starting out with your new machine. That HD9 tension video? Lifesaver! If you only watch one tip from them, watch this one!
It comes with a simple soft white vinyl cover. If you wnat to make it pretty, use this free Janome HD9 machine cover pattern and make it yours - it has side pockets!
Absolutely! I am grateful to be able to work with an HD9, but my main goal is creating bag patterns that everyone can use - and all are also designed to work on regular sewing machines too. This is my promise.
I'll keep adding to this list as new questions about how to sew with HD9 pop up. If there's something you're curious about or a problem you'd like solved, do let me know - your feedback will help me make this post super useful.
FREE HD9 Machine Cover Pattern!
Oh, and one thing more: I designed a free pattern for your new Janome HD9 (and any smaller machines too!) Get the free pattern now, and you'll have it ready once your new HD9 is delivered to your door!
→ Make Your Own Sewing Machine Cover!
So... ready for smoother sewing, stronger stitches, and less hassle with thick layers? The Janome HD9 might just be your perfect machine. Let me know if you decide to get it!
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Erin M says
Love your HD9 review article! It is thorough, detailed, and covers all the main points. I'm delighted to know that you love your HD9 as much as I have, and you were able to articulate the reasons why in this article much better than I did in last year's FB Messenger chats. I'm sure you will help boost the sales of this machine 🙂
Damjana Jakos says
Dear Erin, thank you so much! Your insight as a year-long HD9 user was incredibly helpful when I was deciding. Hearing an honest perspective meant a lot. I’m so grateful - and you were right, this machine is TOP, I absolutely love it!