Janome 11706 Hello Kitty Sewing Machine Review: cute looks & best performance

The Janome 11706 Hello Kitty Sewing Machine is a delightful and compact machine that combines functionality, durability, and an adorable design. This 3/4 size machine is an excellent choice for beginners, children, and even adults who appreciate its portability and ease of use.

Compact and Portable

One of the standout features of the Janome 11706 is its compact size and lightweight design. Weighing only 12 pounds, this machine is easy to carry and store, making it perfect for those who need a portable machine for classes, travel, or quick fixes. The machine also features a convenient carry handle, allowing for effortless transportation.

Performance of The Janome 11706 Hello Kitty Sewing Machine

The Janome 11706 Hello Kitty Sewing Machine delivers a solid performance that caters to the needs of beginner sewers and those seeking a reliable, compact machine. Let’s take a closer look at its performance features:

Smooth and Consistent Stitching

One of the key aspects of the Janome 11706’s performance is its ability to produce smooth and consistent stitches. The machine’s precise stitching mechanism ensures that beginners can achieve neat and even results, boosting their confidence and encouraging them to continue developing their sewing skills.

Durable Construction

Despite its small size, the Janome 11706 is built to last. Known for their quality and durability, Janome machines are designed to withstand the test of time. This Hello Kitty model is no exception, offering a sturdy construction that can handle regular use and the demands of beginner sewers.

Easy to Use

The Janome 11706 is designed with the beginner in mind. Its user-friendly features and straightforward operation make it an excellent choice for those just starting their sewing journey. The machine’s free arm allows for easy sewing of cuffs, sleeves, and other small, circular items, while the simple stitch selection process ensures that even young sewers can quickly choose the desired stitch.

Stitch Options

While the Janome 11706 may not have an extensive array of stitches, it does offer 11 essential stitches, including two stretch stitches and a built-in buttonhole. These stitches cover the basic requirements for most beginner projects, such as simple garments, alterations, and small crafts.

Cute Hello Kitty Design

One of the most appealing aspects of this machine is its adorable Hello Kitty design. The cheerful and friendly character adds a fun and whimsical touch to the machine, making it an attractive option for children and Hello Kitty fans of all ages. The cute design can help to inspire and motivate young sewers as they learn and create.

Consumer Ratings

The Janome 11706 Hello Kitty Sewing Machine has received impressive ratings from a large number of consumers. With an average score of 90.8 out of 100 (approximately 4.5 stars out of 5), this machine has garnered praise from satisfied users.

One of the most notable aspects of these ratings is the substantial sample size. With 404 individual ratings contributing to the overall score, the high level of satisfaction expressed by users carries significant credibility. This large sample size helps to provide a more accurate and representative assessment of the machine’s performance and user experience.

The consistently high ratings across various platforms and retailers demonstrate that the Janome 11706 has met or exceeded the expectations of a wide range of users, from beginners to more experienced sewers. Consumers have likely appreciated the machine’s ease of use, durability, smooth sewing performance, and cute Hello Kitty design.

When compared to other sewing machines in the market, the Janome 11706’s score of 90.8 out of 100 places it among the top-rated machines. This strong performance in consumer ratings suggests that the machine offers excellent value for its price point and target audience.

Source	Consumer Ratings	#Ratings
Amazon	4.4 stars out of 5	127
Joann	4.5 stars out of 5	12
Walmart	5 stars out of 5	7
Target	4.5 stars out of 5	114
Overstock	4.7 stars out of 5	133
Sewing Machines Plus	5 stars out of 5	2
Viewpoints	4.3 stars out of 5	8
QVC	4 stars out of 5	1

KEY FEATURES of the Janome 11706 Hello Kitty Sewing Machine

The Janome 11706 Hello Kitty Sewing Machine comes packed with a range of features that make it an excellent choice for beginners and those seeking a compact, user-friendly machine. Let’s explore these key features in detail:

Stitches and Buttonhole

• 9 built-in stitches, including straight, zigzag, crescent, and multi-stitch zigzag
• 1 four-step buttonhole for creating professional-looking buttonholes

Presser Feet and Feed Dog

• Snap-on presser feet for easy changing and versatility
• 3-piece feed dog system for smooth and consistent fabric feeding

Free Arm and Bobbin Features

• Free arm for sewing cuffs, sleeves, and other small, circular items
• Push-pull bobbin winder for quick and easy bobbin winding
• Vertical oscillating hook bobbin for reliable and consistent stitch formation

Stitch Adjustments

• Extra high presser foot lift for accommodating thicker fabrics or multiple layers
• Stitch selection dial for easy and intuitive stitch choice
• Maximum stitch width of 5mm and maximum stitch length of 4mm for versatility in stitch size

Compact Size

• ¾ size model, perfect for beginners and those with limited space

Needle Plate and Presser Feet

• Three presser feet included for various sewing tasks
• Etched needle plate for precise needle positioning and guidance

Easy Reverse Lever

• Conveniently located reverse lever for locking stitches and reinforcing seams

Tension Dial

• Adjustable tension dial for accommodating different fabric types
• Proper upper thread tension ensures consistent and balanced stitches

What kind of fabrics can a Janome 11706 Hello Kitty sewing machine handle?

Lightweight Fabrics

• Cotton: ideal for garments, quilting, and home décor projects.
• Linen: Suitable for summer clothing and lightweight home décor items.
• Silk: is perfect for delicate garments and accessories.
• Chiffon: Great for lightweight, flowing garments and overlays.
• Organza: Suitable for decorative elements and special occasion wear.

Medium-Weight Fabrics

• Quilting cotton is commonly used for quilting projects and garments.
• Broadcloth: Suitable for shirts, dresses, and home décor items.
• Poplin: Ideal for garments and lightweight upholstery.
• Satin: Perfect for elegant garments and special occasion wear.
• Flannel: Great for cozy garments, blankets, and home décor.
• Lightweight Denim: Suitable for casual wear and accessories.
• Lightweight Wool: is ideal for garments and accessories.

Knit Fabrics

• Jersey Knit: Suitable for t-shirts, dresses, and casual wear.
• Interlock: Perfect for baby clothes, pajamas, and casual wear.
• Tricot: Ideal for lingerie and lightweight activewear.
• Lightweight Fleece: Great for cozy garments and blankets.

Specialty Fabrics

• Lightweight Leather: Suitable for small accessories and light upholstery.
• Lightweight Vinyl: Ideal for bags and accessories.
• Lightweight Canvas: Suitable for bags, home décor, and light upholstery.
• Lightweight Upholstery Fabric: Great for home décor projects.
• Corduroy: Suitable for garments and accessories.
• Velvet: Ideal for elegant garments and home décor.

Tips for Sewing Different Fabrics

• Needle Selection: Use the appropriate needle size and type for the fabric you’re working with. For example, use a fine needle for lightweight fabrics and a heavier needle for medium-weight fabrics.
• Thread Tension: Adjust the thread tension according to the fabric type to ensure balanced and consistent stitches.
• Stitch Length and Width: Customize the stitch length and width based on the fabric and sewing technique to achieve the best results.
• Presser Foot Pressure: Adjust the presser foot pressure if your machine allows, to ensure smooth fabric feeding.

Specification of the Janome 11706 Sewing Machine

Feature	Specification
Model	Janome 11706 Hello Kitty
Type	Mechanical Sewing Machine
Size	3/4 Size
Weight	12 pounds
Stitches	9 built-in stitches
Buttonhole	1 four-step buttonhole
Stitch Width	Maximum 5mm
Stitch Length	Maximum 4mm
Feed Dog	3-piece feed dog
Presser Feet	Snap-on presser feet
Needle Plate	Etched needle plate
Bobbin System	Vertical oscillating hook bobbin
Bobbin Winder	Push-pull bobbin winder
Free Arm	Yes
Presser Foot Lift	Extra high presser foot lift
Stitch Selection	Dial
Reverse Lever	Easy reverse lever
Tension Control	Adjustable tension dial
Carry Handle	Yes
Design	Hello Kitty theme
Power Source	Electric
Accessories Included	Three presser feet, bobbins, needle set, seam ripper, lint brush
Warranty	Varies by retailer and region

Pros and Cons of the Janome 11706 Hello Kitty Sewing Machine

Pros

1. Compact and Lightweight:
   • Weighing only 12 pounds, this 3/4 size machine is easy to transport and store, making it perfect for sewing classes, travel, or small spaces.
2. User-Friendly:
   • The machine is designed with beginners in mind, featuring straightforward controls, a stitch selection dial, and an easy reverse lever.
3. Durable Construction:
   • Despite its compact size, the Janome 11706 is built to last, with sturdy construction that can handle regular use.
4. Cute Hello Kitty Design:
   • The adorable Hello Kitty theme adds a fun and whimsical touch, making it appealing to children and Hello Kitty fans of all ages.
5. Versatile Stitch Options:
   • With 9 built-in stitches, including a four-step buttonhole, the machine offers enough variety for basic sewing projects, mending, and simple garment construction.
6. Extra High Presser Foot Lift:
   • This feature allows you to easily sew thicker fabrics or multiple layers, expanding the range of projects you can tackle.
7. Free Arm:
   • The free arm makes it easy to sew cuffs, sleeves, and other small, circular items, enhancing the machine’s versatility.
8. Quiet Operation:
   • The machine operates quietly, making it suitable for use in shared spaces or during quiet hours.
9. Affordable:
   • The Janome 11706 is reasonably priced, offering good value for its features and performance.

Cons

1. Limited Stitch Options:
   • With only 9 built-in stitches, the machine may not offer enough variety for more advanced sewing projects or decorative stitching.
2. Manual Features:
   • The machine lacks automatic features such as needle threading, thread cutting, and one-step buttonholes, which may be less convenient for some users.
3. Not Ideal for Heavy-Duty Fabrics:
   • While it can handle a variety of fabrics, the machine may struggle with very heavy-duty or thick materials like multiple layers of denim or leather.
4. No Built-In Lighting:
   • The machine does not include built-in lighting, which may make it more challenging to work on detailed or intricate projects in low-light conditions.
5. Limited Advanced Features:
   • The Janome 11706 is a basic machine and may not have the advanced features that some experienced sewers might look for in a more sophisticated model.
6. Potential Limitations for International Buyers:
   • If purchased internationally, the machine may have limitations in terms of warranty, service options, and compliance with local electrical standards.

Conclusion

The Janome 11706 Hello Kitty Sewing Machine is a compact, lightweight, and user-friendly option that is perfect for beginners, children, and Hello Kitty enthusiasts. Its durable construction, versatile stitch options, and fun design make it a great choice for basic sewing projects and mending tasks. While it may have some limitations in terms of advanced features and heavy-duty capabilities, its affordability and ease of use make it an excellent entry-level machine.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the Janome 11706 Hello Kitty Sewing Machine:

Q1: Is the Janome 11706 suitable for beginners?

• A1: Yes, the Janome 11706 is designed with beginners in mind. Its user-friendly features, straightforward controls, and compact size make it an excellent choice for those new to sewing.

Q2: Can children use the Janome 11706?

• A2: Yes, the machine’s simple operation and fun Hello Kitty design make it appealing and suitable for children, with proper adult supervision.

Q3: How many stitches does the Janome 11706 have?

• A3: The Janome 11706 offers 9 built-in stitches, including straight, zigzag, crescent, and multi-stitch zigzag, as well as a four-step buttonhole.

Q4: Can I adjust the stitch length and width?

• A4: Yes, the machine allows you to adjust the stitch length up to 4mm and the stitch width up to 5mm, providing flexibility for different sewing projects.

Q5: Does the Janome 11706 have a free arm?

• A5: Yes, the machine features a free arm, making it easier to sew cuffs, sleeves, and other small, circular items.

Q6: What type of bobbin system does the Janome 11706 use?

• A6: The machine uses a vertical oscillating hook bobbin system, which is reliable and easy to use.

Q7: Does the machine have an automatic needle threader?

• A7: No, the Janome 11706 does not have an automatic needle threader. You will need to thread the needle manually.

Q8: Is there a built-in light on the Janome 11706?

• A8: No, the machine does not have a built-in light, so additional lighting may be needed for detailed work in low-light conditions.

Q9: How much does the Janome 11706 weigh?

• A9: The machine weighs 12 pounds, making it lightweight and portable, ideal for taking to classes or sewing on the go.

Q10: Does the machine come with a carrying handle?

• A10: Yes, the Janome 11706 features a convenient carry handle for easy transportation.

Q11: How do I maintain the Janome 11706?

• A11: Regular maintenance includes cleaning the machine, oiling as recommended in the user manual, and replacing needles as needed. Refer to the instruction manual for detailed maintenance guidelines.

Q12: Does the Janome 11706 come with a warranty?

• A12: Warranty information may vary depending on the retailer and your location. It is best to check with the seller or Janome’s official website for specific warranty details.

Q13: What accessories are included with the Janome 11706?

• A13: The machine comes with several standard accessories, including three presser feet, bobbins, a needle set, a seam ripper, and a lint brush.

Q14: Are there optional accessories available for the Janome 11706?

• A14: Yes, optional accessories such as a 10-pack of bobbins, a logo case with 25 blue bobbins, a black derby tote, a finger guard, a lint brush, a polka-dot derby tote, and a seam ripper are available for purchase.

Q15: Can the Janome 11706 handle heavy-duty fabrics?

• A15: While the machine can handle a variety of fabrics, it may struggle with very heavy-duty or thick materials like multiple layers of denim or leather.

Q16: Is the Janome 11706 quiet during operation?

• A16: Yes, the machine operates quietly, making it suitable for use in shared spaces or during quiet hours.