Product · Janome
Janome Skyline S6: 196 stitches, 9 mm width
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The Janome Skyline S6 is a mid-size sewing and quilting machine for people who want wide decorative stitches and less fiddling with settings. Its 9 mm maximum stitch width and auto tension system are the headline features: the first gives bolder satin stitches and decorative borders, and the second keeps stitch quality consistent as you change fabrics.
- Thread cutter
- Automatic, button
- Stitches
- 196
- Sewing space
- Not stated
- Needle threader
- Not stated
- Weight
- 11.3 kg
In its favour
- An automatic thread cutter, a locking stitch button and start/stop are all listed.
- A 9 mm stitch width and 91 needle positions give fine control and bold decorative stitches.
- Auto tension is listed for consistent stitches across fabrics.
Good to know
- The listing describes it as mid size but does not give the sewing space.
- At 11.3 kg it is not one to carry to classes.
Our take
Stitch width and needle positions
Janome lists 196 built-in stitches, 91 needle positions and a 9 mm maximum stitch width. Many domestic machines stop at 5 or 7 mm, so 9 mm is a clear step up for appliqué edges and decorative work. With 91 needle positions, you can move a straight stitch in small steps for precise topstitching and quarter inch piecing.
Auto tension and lighting
The auto tension system adjusts thread tension for consistent stitches across fabrics. For quilters switching from cotton piecing to a thick quilt sandwich, that means fewer test strips. Six ultra-bright LED lights illuminate the sewing area.
Controls
A backlit digital LCD, a start/stop button, an automatic thread cutter, an easy reverse button and a locking stitch button are listed. Together they let you sew a seam without the pedal, lock it neatly at the end and trim the threads with button presses.
The spec table gives 11.3 kg and a metal and plastic build. Sewing space and needle threader are not stated.
The locking stitch button sews a few tiny stitches in place to secure a seam, which looks neater than reverse stitching on topstitched edges and decorative work. Combined with the thread cutter, it makes finishing each seam a two button routine rather than a reach for the scissors.
Against the 5270QDC and Juki HZL-HT740
The Janome 5270QDC has more stitches (270), 12 buttonholes and a knee lifter, with a thread cutter. The Juki HZL-HT740 trims both threads, has a stated 6.4 inch workspace and weighs 7.6 kg. The Skyline S6 is the one to choose for 9 mm width and auto tension.
The Anniversary Edition Skyline S6 AE adds a stated 8.25 by 4.7 inch workspace and 10 one-step buttonholes.
Who should choose differently
If you want a knee lifter, the 5270QDC lists one. If you need a light machine to carry, 11.3 kg is on the heavy side.
Verdict
Choose the Janome Skyline S6 if you want a 9 mm stitch width, auto tension, start/stop and a thread cutter for decorative sewing and quilting. If a knee lifter and more buttonholes matter, the Janome 5270QDC is the alternative, and for a lighter thread trimming machine, the Juki HZL-HT740.
Compared with alternatives in: Best sewing machines with automatic thread cutter, Janome sewing machines compared
Amazon listing title: Janome Skyline S6 Sewing and Quilting Machine with 9mm Stitch Width, Mid-Size, White