Frequently Asked Questions

Unsure about anything?
Read on... you might find your answers here.


If not, send us a message or call 1300 88 11 59.
We're always happy to help.
 

Sections

  
Ordering


Q: How do I order from you?

A: Simply visit our store and add the products you want to cart. When you're ready to checkout please go through the easy steps and your postage will be calculated automatically. It's fast and easy - you can do it on your favouritr devices or even your smart phone!


Q: When do I pay for my order?

A: As soon as possible, so we can send your order out straight away. If you need more time, simply let us know so we can hold you order for you. Orders will be sent out once payment is complete and funds are cleared in our account.


Q: How come I cannot complete checkout? I'm not in Australia.

A: Our system will automatically complete orders with an Australian delivery address. Orders outside of Australia can easily be done via a PayPal invoice. Please contact us to confirm whether the product is suitable for your country, and we will give you an accurate quote on shipping cost too.


Q: I'm not in Australia but I'm having my product delivered to an Australia address. Is that possible?

A: Absolutely! Simply visit our store and add the products you want to cart. When you're ready to checkout please go through the easy steps and fill in the Australian delivery address. Your postage will be calculated automatically.


Q: I'm ordering for my business. Can I have a tax invoice?

A: Sure! While there won't be an invoice inside the parcel, our system sends a tax invoice automatically to the email address supplied. In any case, we can easily email you another copy - just let us know.


Q: Can I place an order over the phone?

A: Yes - if you prefer. Simply call us on 1300 88 11 59. We can take your order over the phone and pay with a Credit / Debit card. Please place your order online you'd like to use Afterpay or ZipPay - because we cannot do them over the phone.


Q: Can I send you an order over email?

A: Definitely - simply email us with product and delivery details and we will send you a PayPal invoice for credit card or PayPal payment. Bank transfer is just as easy - please let us know if you'd like our bank details.


Q: I'm ordering on behalf of a school / club / organisation. What's your procedure?

A: We often do bulk orders for schools / clubs and other organisations. The easiest way is to simply order on our website and complete check out with your company credit card, or select Direct Deposit and transfer funds from your company account. All orders are sent once your payment is completed in full.

Feel free to contact us for bulk pricing - depends on quality, we can sometimes do better in prices.


Q: Do you have a shop / show room that I can visit?

A: No. Sorry. The Sydney warehouse is a working warehouse and there is no shop front there. If you're located within Sydney, it's just as easy to have your order delivered - the cost is very reasonable for local orders.

However, if you'd like to pick up your furniture, we can make arrangments for you as long as you can get to the supplier's warehouse during 9 am to 4 pm, Monday To Friday (excluding Public Holidays).

Pick Up is for furniture ONLY. Please contact us for more details.

 

Prices


Q: Do you have a price-matching policy?

A:  When it comes to price matching it's always a good idea to check with us.

If you have seen any of our products advertised cheaper elsewhere, and can provided us with a link, we are happy to verify our competitor's offer (such as how long their warranty goes).

There may be a chance for price matching if all terms & conditions are identical. We reserve the right to decide whether to price-match or not.

Often, we offer a better service and value-added bonuses.

For example, we provide a 2-year (24 months) warranty for sewing machines which is double of the manufacturer or any sewing store, exclusively to our customers who choose to support our business.


Q: I'd like to buy more than one. Can you give me a better price?

A: Sure - we're happy to do our best with prices if you'd like to order more than one.  Please call 1300 88 11 59 or send a quick email to [email protected] and we will work it all out for you. Easy!


Q: I'm ordering on behalf of a school / club / organisation. Can you give me a better price?

A: Sure - we often do bulk orders for schools / clubs and other organisations. Depends on quality, we can sometimes do better in prices. Please call 1300 88 11 59 or send a quick email to [email protected] and we will work it all out for you.


 
Payment


Q: Can I pay by credit card? How about American Express?

A: Sure! We accept VISA / Master Card / debit card payments. AMEX are taken securely via PayPal - and you don't even need a PayPal account to do this!

When you plan to use AMEX for checkout, please select "PayPal" as your payment option and follow their prompt. Then follow their prompt that goes something like "I don't want to use funds in PayPal". Select that one and you will be taken to a secure screen to continue. Easy!


Q: Can I call you and give you my credit card details over the phone?

A: Yes, Definitely! If you'd like to place an order over the phone, simply call 1300 88 11 59. Please leave us a clear message in case the line is busy. Easy!


Q: I need my item in a hurry. What's the fastest way of paying?

A: The fastest way is PayPal or Credit / Debit Card, as long as you have enough funds at time of check out.

Alternatively you can also deposit cash in our account at any NAB branch near you. On check out select the option for direct deposit so you'll be given our bank details, and let us know as soon as possible so we can keep an eye on the payment and arrange delivery promptly.


Q: Do you offer "Lay-By" or any payment plans?

A: Sure - feel free to use our good ol' fashion Layby if you're happy to wait. Find Out More about our Layby.

You can also use Afterpay or ZipPay - they provide interest-free finance for you to pay by installments, and still receive your order upfront. It's like a Layby you don't need to wait! Find out more about Afterpay, and read here about ZipPay


Q: What's Afterpay? What's ZipPay? What's the difference?

A: Both Afterpay and ZipPay are finance providers that allow you to buy now, get delivery now, and pay over time. They are separate companies to us, and you can read all about Afterpay, and read here about ZipPay. Read here for the Difference between Afterpay & ZipPay.


Q: Do you accept Direct Deposit to transfer funds from my bank account to yours?

A: Yes we do. Account details will be made available in checkout process. Your order will dispatched after funds are cleared in our account. The time taken to clear funds will vary depending on bank processing times.


Q: Do you accept Cash payment?

A: Yes - sort of. Since there is no shop front - cash deposit can be made at any NAB branch near you. On check out select the option for direct deposit so you'll be given our bank details, and let us know as soon as possible so we can keep an eye on the payment and arrange delivery promptly.


Q: Do you accept payment by personal cheque?

A: Generally Not - though contact us if you don't have any other payment options available. Your order will only be sent once the cheque clears. Please contact us before sending a cheque - because we need to give you the correct postal address!


Q: Do you accept payment by money order or bank cheque?

A: Generally Not - though contact us if you don't have any other payment options available. Your order will only be sent once the cheque clears. Please contact us before sending a cheque - because we need to give you the correct postal address!


Q: I've paid via PayPal, why did it come up as "eCheque"? What is it?

A: eCheques are a type of non-instant bank payment via PayPal.

This happens when there aren't enough funds  already in the PayPal account used for payment and some or all fo the funds are drawn by PayPal from a linked bank account instead of a linked credit or debit card.

PayPal quotes 5 working days for funds to clear, but it can often take longer.


 
Lay-by / Payment Plan


Q: I want to buy while the sale is on, but don't have the full amount right now. Can I do a "Lay-By" or any payment plans?

A: Sure - feel free to use our good ol' fashion Layby if you're happy to wait. Find Out More about our Layby HERE.

We can invoice you through PayPal in installments (say, a quarter of the whole amount per fortnight) until the full amount is paid up, then we organise delivery. However PayPal only allow for a maximum duration of 60 days, so that's the maximum duration of any lay-by.


Q: I've heard of Afterpay and ZipPay - what are they? And what's the difference?

A: Both Afterpay and ZipPay are finance providers that allow you to buy now, get delivery now, and pay over time. They are separate companies to us, and you can read all about Afterpay, and read here about ZipPay. Read here for the Difference between Afterpay & ZipPay.


 
Picking Up Your Order


Q: I live close by the warehouse. Can I pick up my order?

A: This depends on what you've ordered. Pick up is for furniture only - by prior arrangment at the Sydney warehouse and they need at least a day's notice please.

All we ask is that all payments are cleared prior to pick up, because the warehouse team are not allowed to accept payments for security reasons.

Most of our products (such as mannequins) are being sent by the distributor directly to you, and because they do not open to the public, pick up isn't possible.

If you're thinking of picking up your furniture instead of having it delivered, please call 1300 88 11 59 or send a quick email to [email protected] and we will sort it all out for you. Easy!


Q: How come most items cannot be picked up?

A: Because we use a secured, commercial warehouse that isn't open to the public. Also, some of our products (such as mannequins) are being sent by the distributor directly to you, that's why pick up isn't possible for anything other than furniture.


Q: Can I pay you when I pick up my furniture?

A: No, sorry. Because the warehouse team are not allowed to receive payments for security reasons. And that's why all payments need to be finalised before we make pick up arrangments.


Q: How do I make funiture pick up arrangments?

A: Easy. Send a quick email to [email protected] or call us on 1300 88 11 59 and we will sort it all out for you.


Q: Where is the furniture pick up location?

A: It's in Kings Park. The exact address will be confirmed once you've placed and order and completed check out. Alternatively, send a quick email to [email protected] or call us on 1300 88 11 59 and we will confirm it for you.


Q: Any special instruction for my furniture pick up?

A: Yes - and these will be sent directly to your email address once your payment clears and you let us know you'd like to pick up. So please check your junk mail or spam folder if you couldn't find it in your inbox because some email providers may put the email in there.


 
Delivery


Q: How long does delivery take within Australia?

A: We quote 2-3 business days from purchase to dispatch, but for most items we are able to have your order dispatched by the next business day. Actual delivery time frame will depend on where you are, the time of year & other factors outside our control like weather/road conditions & industrial actions. Please let us know ASAP if you need your order by a certain date.


Q: Can you send my order to a P.O. Box?

A: For items within Aust Post size limit, YES. Sometimes even sewing machines - but depends on which machine.

Many oversized items (i.e. fruniture) are delivered by couriers, and they are unable to deliver to P.O. boxes. To ensure prompt delivery, please make sure we have a PHYSICAL address (either home or work), and a contact number.


Q: Can someone call me so I can be home for my delivery?

A: While courier companies ALWAYS ask for a contact phone number, and we always ask them to phone ahead, they often just turn up.

In case the delivery driver gets there and you're not home, they will either leave a card so you can contact them to book in a re-delivery, or some couriers will leave your parcel at a safe place by prior arrangement. Alternatively, a business / day time address is a great idea too.


Q: It's been a while - I still haven't received my order yet?

A: While most orders are delivered quickly, occasionally there can be 'hicups' in transit that are outside of our control.

If your order is a bit overdue, please contact us by emailing [email protected] or calling 1300 88 11 59 and we'll get it followed up for you ASAP.

Generally it's just Australia Post or courier being late - or the delivery driver may forget to leave you a card so your parcel may be waiting for collecion or redelivery at a depot.

Whatever the issue, we are happy to follow up for you.


Q: Can I track my order?

A: Most of the time items sent as a parcel will come with tracking number that we can provide you. This allows you to use the tracking system provided by Australia Post or courier.

Sometimes your order is being sent directly from the distributor (like mannequins or sewing furniture), and there may not be a tracking number available. Please let us know if your parcel is overdue and we can follow up for you.

For items sent as Large Letter, Australia Post do not provide tracking for these so no tracking number is available.


Q: What if I don't have a tracking number?

A:  Oftern small / flat items are sent as "Large Letter" to help you save postage. Aust Post does not provide tracking number for these. Their letter service is very reiable though not known to be fast. So please allow a bit more time, and by all means contact us by emailing [email protected] or phoning 1300 88 11 59 if it's been a while.


Q: Why is there no tracking information online?

A:  Sometime delivery drivers are in a hurry to deliver your parcel, that they may not have time to scan each one as they go. That means your parcel is still making its way to you without delay - even if there doens't seem to be much progress shown online. Feel free to contact us if it's been a while. simply by emailing [email protected] or phoning 1300 88 11 59 and we will get our warehouse team to follow up with Aust Post for you.


 
Postage / Shipping / Freight Cost



Q: How much is my postage?

A: This depends on your delivery address and what product you have in mind. Normally your postage is calculated automatically by the system, based on your location, item dimensions, and weight. This is pretty accurate, though if the amount seem odd, please contact us and we can confirm for you.


Q: Do you combine shipping / postage costs for multiple items?

A: Yes, we're happy to combine postage when possible. Generally your postage is calculated automatically by the system, based on your location, item dimensions, and weight. This is pretty accurate, though if the amount seem odd, please contact us and we can confirm for you.


Q: I'm buying this item as a gift. Can it be sent to the recipient's address instead of mine?

A: Of course. Simply put the recipient address as "shipping address", and your own as "billing address". We never include an invoice in the box, though a copy of the tax invoice is sent automatically to the email address provided - so please make sure you've given us your own email address.

Remember also to provide a contact number for either yourself or your recipient- this is just for the delivery driver.

 

Combined Postage


Q: Do you combine shipping / postage costs for multiple items?

A: Yes, we combine postage whenever possible. Generally your postage is calculated automatically by the system, based on your location, item dimensions, and weight. This is pretty accurate, though if the amount seem odd, please contact us and we can confirm for you.


 
Ordering From Overseas


Q: I'm not in Australia - could you ship to my country?

A: Maybe. This depends on which country, and what products. Please contact us for more information.


Q: I'm not in Australia - do you have a distributor in my country?

A: This depends on which country, and what products. Please contact us for more information.


Q: I'm not in Australia - how come shipping is so expensive to my country?

A: That's because our international shipping options are very limited, and everything generally cost a lot to send out of Australia.


Q: I'm not in Australia - how long does it take to receive my order?

A: Depends on which country, what products, and which shipping option. In general, please allow at least 10 to 14 working days. Most of the delay is cause by Customs at the receiver's end - and that's completely outside of our control.


Q: I'm not from Australia - how much is the prodcut / shipping in my currency?

A: As far as the currency exchange rate goes, it changes all the time, so it may be best for you to use an online calculator for the most up-to-date information:

http://www.xe.com/currencyconverter/


Q: I'm not in Australia - how long will it take and what will it cost to ship my Sewing  Machine / Overlocker / Iron / Other Electric Appliance?

A: Before we get into the delivery time or shipping cost, we'd like you to know that ALL of our electronic appliances are made for Australian / NZ standard and voltage and may not be suitable for use in other countries.

While I know most people have no issues buying and selling electronic devices around the world, I have always erred on the cautious side and make it really clear to my customers that all manufacturer's warranty only covers products that are made for particular countries (in our case, Australia and New Zealand).

So we do not feel comfortable sending anything that needs to be plugged in outside of Australia and NZ. We appreciate your understanding on this.


Q: I'm in New Zealand - can I order a Sewing  Machine / Overlocker / Ironing Press from you?

A: Technically, YES. Given that NZ uses the same voltage and appliances are generally made to be compliant to both countries, the product will work perfectly

Your warranty is still provided by us though, and it's a "Return to Base" warranty. That means all warranty claims and repairs are done by the technicians in Australia.

In the rare case where you might raise a warranty claim, the machine needs to be shipping back to Australia with postage covered by you both ways. We appreciate your understanding on this.


Q: I'm in New Zealand - where can I get an Oliso Smart Iron?

A: You can order from us! Our Oliso iron distributor has a warehouse in Auckland, and we are more than happy to organise delivery for you, at local NZ shipping rate. Please contact us by emailing [email protected] for more information.


 
Returns


Q: What if I don't like my item? Do you have a returns policy?

A: Definitely! We have a 60 Days Money Back, No-Questions-Asked policy for most items. If what you bought isn't right, please contact us we will give you more details on how refund or swap works. Easy!


Q: What if the product I bought is faulty?

A: In the unlikely event when it happens, please email us ASAP so we can come up with a solution best suits you - there is ALWAYS something we can do to make you happy.

If it is within 60 days, feel free to take advantage of our 60-Days Money Back Guarantee for most of our items (see individual listings for more details).


Q: What if I receive the wrong item?

A: Our warehouse team are spot on almost all of the time with lots of orders each day. On the rare occasion there can be a mix up and the wrong item gets picked. If this happens with your order, please send us a quick email to hello@sewmucheasier or call us on 1300 88 11 59 and we will get it sorted out for you ASAP.

To return a wrong item won't cost you anything and we are happy to give you more details on how this can be arranged.


 
Repairs / Services / Warranty / After Sales Support



Q: Will I be able to get my Janome serviced by my local sewing machine technicians? Would they know what to do? What about spare parts?

A: Your local service mechanics will know what to do because Janome is one of the most popular makes of sewing machines in Australia.

All the spare parts are standard Janome spare parts, and optional extra accessories are easily available either in Generic or Janome-branded versions.


Q: How do I make a warranty claim? Who does my warranty repairs?

A: We are your warranty provider. Simply contact us when you need to make a warranty claim because we are effectively your "shop" - and you will be looked after for the first two years against any manufacturing faults.

We work with Janome authorised technicians for all our warranty repairs - so make sure you keep the original box and the inner packaging to ensure safe travels for your machine!


Q: What if I need to ask questions or do some troubleshooting? Who do I contact? I can only imagine my local dealers would possibly be unhelpful because I didn't buy it from them....

A: No worries - simply contact us for any after-sale support - such as asking questions or troubleshooting - we are your "shop", and we are here to help answer any questions and provide support just like any physical store.


Q: I am still a little concerned about warranty and support. Is there a physical shop based in a particular state that one could locate or contact?

A: While is it true that online sellers do come and go - and we've seen our competitors disappear - there is also NO guarantee that physical shops won't go out of business and move on either (especially in today's tough retail condition).

When our buying from us, you'll have our full contact details - so any questions, trouble-shooting & concerns are taken care of by us. It can be hard to find this level of care and attention in a chain store or franchised business.


Q: For sewing machines, what's the difference between your warranty and the "Janome" warranty offered by the dealers?

A: Janome Dealers and sewing stores are able to use the term "Manufacturer's Warranty" (12 months, longer for certain parts) because they are physical stores.

As an online seller, we are providing you with a "Seller's Warranty" (also know as "Return-to-Base" warranty) which is 24 months / TWO years.

The actual warranty repair works are still done by Janome authorised technicians. No difference there.


Q: How does "Return-to-Base" warranty work? Do I get the machine back to you?

A: Yes - because we were able to deliver the machine to you in the first place, you can also get the machine back to us the same way. Think of it like returning things to a shop - we are your "shop", and we look after you by getting your warranty repair done for you.

It's most important that you keep the original box and inner packinging - so that your machine can travel safely in the unlikely event of needing a warranty repair.

Please contact us anytime - we're here for you.

 

Sewing Machine Presser Feet / Optional Extras / Spare Parts



Q: Do you sell a Walking Foot / Darning Foot / 1/4 Quarter Inch Foot etc to suit my model?

A: Most likely. The sewing machine presser feet that we sell are generic, universal parts, designed to fit most Janomes and other makes.

Most of the current domestic sewing machine (excluding embroidery machines and overlockers) are Top-Loading (meaning bobbin goes in from above) with 7mm maximum stitch width - and have straight Low Shanks. If you've bought a computerised sewing machine in the last couple of decades, you probably have one of these.

Unless otherwise stated, our presser feet are designed to fit most machines described above. Please feel free to check suitability of your particular model with us.


Q: How do I find my model number? It's an old Janome.....

A: Look for a small metal plaque at the back of your machine. You will find some numbers on the plaque, which Janome Australia calls Approval Number.

The last few digits of the Approval Number is your model number (sometimes it is abbreviated as "APPR. NO."). This number will help you find the right spare parts or user manual.


Q: Do you have an extension table to suit my Janome model?

A: Possibly. We have a few extension tables that are suitable for a variety of models. If those won't fit your model, we can always order it especially for you as long as Janome has stock.


Q: What's the difference between Janome branded parts and Generic (non-branded) parts?

A: Great question. There seem to be Very Little difference, if any.

However, the quality and prices vary a lot between generic parts. Even though you can find a lot of VERY cheap generic parts elsewhere - you do get what you pay for.

The presser feet and spare parts that we stock at Sew Much Easier are made by the same team that makes genuine Janome branded parts for Janome - except we asked them to package in our own brand. And we happily use these for our own sewing.

Our quality is IDENTICAL to Janome-branded equivelants, except for the packaging. We wouldn't risk our reputation or your peace of mind just to save a few dollars - and neither should you.

For more information, here's a behind the scene tour at the factory - which is one of a few remaining certtified by Janome themselves:

Not All Presser Feet Are Made Equal


Q: What's the difference between "screw on" and "snap on" or "clip on" feet?

A: If it doesn't use a screw to attach, then it's a snap-on or clip-on.

Your "screw on" foot needs to be attached by first un-doing the screw and remove the shank adaptor (that "ankle" thing). Then you use the same screw to fix the new foot in place.

As far as "snap on" or "clip on" feet go, they are like those feet that come with your sewing machine. You simply "snap" or "clip" them onto the shank adaptor without having to remove or replace the screw.

Most domestic machines made since 1980 can take snap-on feet (Except Berninas, which have their own style of attaching, and therefore need an adaptor).


Q: How do I tell whether my machine is "Top Loading" or "Front Loading"?

A: Simply look at where the bobbins go in.

If your bobbin goes in from above horizontally, then you are looking at a Top Loading machine. For example, the Janome DC6030 that we sell belongs to this category.

If your bobbin needs to be inserted from the front vertically, then your machine is a Front Loading model. For example, Janome JR1012 - is a front loading Janome.


Q: How do I tell whether my machine is a "7mm" or "5mm"? Is there others?

A: The "7mm" and "5mm" refers to the maximum WIDTH of your sewing machine stitch, when you choose zigzag.

"7mm" is by far the most common - especially for a computerised machine. "5mm" is generally for most basic / budget type of machines. So if your sewing machine costs $200 or less, its maximum width is probably 5mm.

There is also "9mm" which is limited to the upper range of sewing machines, say, Janome Horizon or Skyline S5 / S7 / S9. The Skyline S3 is still a 7mm.


Q: What does "Low Shank" or "High Shank" mean?

It means "shank height" or "shank size".

Most domestic machines have LOW shanks. Just to give you an idea, we sell about 10 low shank presser feet to ONE high shank foot.
 



That means if you don't know what sort of shank your machine has, it's probably a low shank. Because High Shank machines are generally "fancy" embroidery models which are more costly, and those who invest in these models tend to know exactly what shank type it is.


Q: How do I know if my sewing machine has "Low Shank" or "High Shank"?

A: Generally speaking, if your sewing machine is an "embroidery" model (for example, high-end Janome Memory Craft), then it is likely to have High Shank.

Most of the "straight sewing" or "all-purpose" models have Low Shank.

If you are not certain, you can measure using the simple instructions below:

To Measure: have your presser foot in down position, measure the distance from the bottom of foot to screw-hole that holds the foot onto the presser bar.
  • 3 cm or 1 1/4" from the screw to the bottom of the foot = High Shank
  • 2 cm or 3/4" from the screw to the bottom of the foot = Low Shank

Q: My machine is different to the ones mentioned above. Is there another shank type?

A: Yes. There is also another type: Slant Shank.

Some Singers & Pfaff models (amongst other makes) have this type of shank.

If you look at your machine from the side, and see that the the needle shank goes forward in angle that looks like " \ ", then you are looking at a Slant Shank machine.

This type of machines (apart from Bernina) will take most snap-on type feet, but when it comes to screw-on feet, they only take ones that are specially made for slant shank machines.


Q: Would your generic presser foot fit my Bernina?

A: Maybe. Any clip-on foot with the correct Bernina adaptor will work perfectly.

If you have a Bernette, then just about all of the generic foot will work.

Feel free to check with us if you're not sure, or you can alway try it out and send it back within 60 days if it doesn't fit for a swap or refund.


Q: Would your generic presser foot fit my Pffaff / Husquavarna Viking?

A: Maybe. Any screw-on foot with the correct shank height should work perfectly.

Generic clip-on feet will work with one of our screw-on adaptors - which you can simply screw-on in place of the adaptor that comes with your machine. Feel free to check with us if you're not sure.

Feel free to check with us if you're not sure, or you can alway try it out and send it back within 60 days if it doesn't fit for a swap or refund.


Q: Would your generic presser foot fit my Singer?

A: Maybe. Singer machines have a very long history and they vary a lot.

In most cases, a clip-on type foot will work either as-is or with one of our screw-on adaptors.

Some Singer models may have a slightly different needle position to the foot, so remember to check that you CAN alter needle positions on your machine.

Feel free to check with us if you're not sure, or you can alway try it out and send it back within 60 days if it doesn't fit for a swap or refund.


Q: What if the foot I ordered doesn't work with my machine?

A: Easy - simply email us to let us know, then send it back for a swap or refund. It's that simple!


Q: What is a DC motor?

A: It is an electronic controlled direct current motor that provides precision control for starting and stopping.


Q: What is the "hook type" of my machine? How do I know whether it's "rotary" or "oscillating"? What's the difference?

A: The term "hook type" refers to the bobbin driver system.

A rotary hook moves in one direction - round and round.

An oscillating hook goes back & forth, bringing the thread most of the way around the bobbin, then goes back to pick up the thread for the next stitch.

How do you tell which one your machine has? Take a look at the bobbin movements when you machine is in operation: does it go round & round? Or back & forth?

Rotary hook machines tend to be quieter, simply because the machinery does not have to change the direction of the hook.

While there are some exceptions, most domestic sewing machines can be divided into four types.
  1. Top-Loading (Horizontal) Bobbin with Rotary Hook. e.g. Janome DC6030
  2. Top-Loading (Horizontal) Bobbin with Oscillating Hook. 
  3. Front-Loading (Vertical) Bobbin with Rotary Hook. e.g. Janome JR1012
  4. Front-Loading (Vertical) Bobbin with Oscillating Hook (Bernina's CB System belongs to the category)
All other things being equal, the front loading (or vertical bobbin) machines are more suited to taking specialty bobbin threads - such as fine elastic for shirring - because the loop of thread do not get pulled around a corner as the stitch is secured.

Clear as mud? Not to worry.

The golden rule with purchasing a sewing machine is to have a CLEAR idea of what type of project you want to make, and what (if any) specialty materials you will be using.

Then simply buy the BEST machine within your price range at the time, so you can avoid costly upgrades later on. This can save you in the long run.


Q: What is the main difference between a Top Loading Machine and a Front Loading Machine apart from bobbin position?

A: According to Technical Support from Janome, the main differences are in the stitch width.

For example, the Janome JR1012 is a FRONT loading model, and the widest stitch width is 4.5 ~ 5 mm. Commonly known as "5mm" machine.

Whereas a Janome DC6030 (a TOP loading model), the maximum stitch width is 6.5 ~ 7 mm. Because it has a wider throat plate. These machines are the most common, and they are know as "7mm" machines.

You will find most of the computerised models that has "fancier" stitches tend to be TOP loading, because of the advantage of being able to have a wider stitch width.

In comparison, having a narrower width means the basic models have fewer stitch variation and limited functions.


Q: Can I use the same presser feet for both TOP loading models and FRONT loading models?

A: Possibly, but not always.

Most of the feet we sell ARE interchangeable, except for the quarter inch foot.

We do have FRONT loading version (or max. 5 mm width) of quarter inch foot.

Still unsure? We can help.....

The best solution is to just order the foot you want and try it on. That way you will know for sure.

If it does not fit your machine, simply send it back for a refund or swap - just send us a quick email to let us know!


Q: My sewing machine came with plastic bobbins. Can I use metal bobbins?

A: NO. Because most top-loading sewing machines have a magnetic bobbin system - this includes computerised sewing machines. If you use a metal bobbin, chances are you can cause damage by demagnetising the bobbin system, and the repair can be costly.

If you need extra bobbins, please head over to our store and order some. They come in packs of 25 or 50 bobbins - there's even a 500 bulk pack if you'd like to split it with your sewing friends!


 
Specific Items


Q: I'd like a particular product but you don't have it. Can you order it in for me?

A: Yes - as long as we are able to get it within Australia. Please let us know what it is and we will go from there.


Q: Is there another colour / design available for the product I want?

A: If there are more than one colour / design of a certain product, we will usually have it in our store. By all means check with us - you'd never know.


Q: I'm after more of a certain fabric. Do you sell it by the meter?

A: In most cases - NO. However if you'd like a whole roll, we are happy to order it in for you - as long as the Australian supplier has stock, of course.


Q: I've read through all the information on your listing but still have questions. Can I contact you?

A: Of course, we'd love to hear from you. You can email us at hello@sewmucheasier, or simply give us a call on 1300 88 11 59 from within Australia. If we can't get to the phone in time, please leave a clear message with your name and contact number and we will call you back.


 
Other


Q: Is there a phone number I can call to talk to someone?

A: Sure. Simply call 1300 88 11 59. If we can't get to the phone in time, please leave a clear message with your name and contact number and we will call you back.

Or simply send us a message to [email protected].

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