Semi-Industrial Review Series: Elna ef1 Review and Comparison

Welcome to the grand finale of our semi-industrial sewing machine review series! In this concluding episode, we present the remarkable Elna ef1 sewing machine, a true standout in performance and innovation. Join us as we unpack, put to the test, and share our candid insights on this semi-industrial marvel.
Explore the standout features that make the Elna ef1 shine, including its impeccable motor control, lighted throat space, and expert stitching precision. We'll embark on a sewing journey through various fabrics, from Ottertex waterproof canvas to marine vinyl, examining how it effortlessly handles intricate projects with finesse.
As part of our comprehensive series, we're committed to providing an illuminating overview of semi-industrial sewing machines. We'll also draw a comparison between the Elna ef1 and other machines in the series, such as the Juki TL-2010Q, offering valuable insights to help you make an informed choice aligned with your unique requirements and budget.
Join us now as we unravel the secrets of the Elna ef1 and steer you towards discovering the perfect semi-industrial sewing machine to elevate your crafting endeavors!
IMPORTANT: I purchased this machine with my own money and did not receive a discount or any kind of consideration from Brother, Juki, Elna, or any other company in exchange for doing this video. The contents of this video are my unbiased thoughts and were not influenced in any way.
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[@morganferris2667]

Thank you for this review! Fellow Husqvarna girl (I use the Opal's big sister, Sapphire, for quilting & bag making). I have been looking at an industrial for a while now and this review sold me! There's an EF1 at my local dealer that now has my name on it. :) Thanks again for the video!

[@EmporiumThreads]

How exciting to get a new machine! I hope you love yours as much as I love mine!!

[@debraewing2859]

Very thorough review! Thank you! Sew Steady makes an after market extension table that is custom cut for each machine model. They are wonderful. There is a smaller size at about $79-$89 and a larger size at about$129-$139.

[@lorenpopolis]

I have a used Janome 1600P, circa 2004. It’s white, but otherwise identical to your machine, two lights and all. I think they’re made in the same factory. I paid $375 and got 10 feet, an extension table, plus, so a good deal. I laughed when you were confused about the ‘farump’ sounding thread cutter. Yeah, it’s a feature not a bug, ha ha . I love my machine, it’s a workhorse💪

[@randykoger4646]

You have great, thorough and enjoyable videos. Thank you for all the helpful info.

[@daniellepierson8821]

Thank you for doing all these sewing machine review. Now I want an Elna.

[@EmporiumThreads]

I highly recommend this machine. It has been nothing short of amazing!

[@frankdearr2772]

Great review, thanks 👍

[@saraaronzon4562]

She’s a beauty! Thank you for beautiful and in depth review.

[@EmporiumThreads]

Thanks for the kind words and thanks for watching!

[@LeslieKingcraft]

Thank you! I bought one based on your recommendation and it came today 😊😊

[@EmporiumThreads]

Hope you love it!

[@aggiep0123]

Great review! I had a couple of questions and you answered all of them. I am definitely going right now to look into this machine! You may have made a sale. Thank you so much!

[@EmporiumThreads]

I hope you love it! I adore it!!

[@janicekusaba9517]

I love my EF1 I plan to travel with this for sewing retreats for bag making.

[@PatchworkPirate]

I have this gorgeous machine and the Janome table for it. I have been making bags like a beast on it.

[@annabrown9000]

I have the Elna Expressive 920 and love it thinking I need this sewing machine too, love the way these run.

[@EmporiumThreads]

I truly love how smooth this machine is. I am so glad this was the one I went with :)

[@ceciliaschoff1458]

Thank you for this outstanding review! I was trying to decide between a Juki TL2010Q and the Janome 1600p. I stumbled upon your review and fell in love with the color and machine! I just ordered one!

[@EmporiumThreads]

I hope you love your new machine!! Happy sewing Cecilia :)

[@georgiemeier3966]

The 2 lights is awesome,so surprised more companies don't address this problem

[@duckypam]

Thanks for your reviews. It helped tremendously. I have saved up and picked one up. Can’t wait to start sewing with something with a great deal more quality than my present machine. I don’t have room for a full industrial with a big table at this time and it’s my best option.

[@EmporiumThreads]

I hope you love the machine you picked! I truly enjoy using this machine and it’s been amazing with every bag I’ve sewn, either with foam interfacing! So glad you found the reviews helpful, thanks for watching!

[@bettydanico2959]

Please measure the height of the throat and length. Thank you. Great video😍

[@ji94552]

This must have been a Goldilocks moment for you. Congratulations on your new sewing machine!

[@EmporiumThreads]

Hah! Completely! I’ve been sewing with it for a while now and it’s gone on some getaways too! I just love the machine so much :D no regrets!

[@cindywinkler4172]

I hope you keep this machine, It's beautiful

[@EmporiumThreads]

I did keep the machine. I’ve been using it since well before this video was released and it’s wonderful. I love it! Highly recommend it.

[@marymitchell3792]

I was so tempted to buy this because it’s so pretty! But got a juki TL instead.

[@Nicoya]

I believe this machine shares its chassis and mechanicals with the Janome 1600p, and the thread cutter on that one is only rated for up to #30 thread, so it's not entirely surprising that it failed to cut your Tex 40 industrial thread.

[@mistifaery]

I found this machine refurbished from a dealer for about $1000. I ordered it yesterday with my fingers crossed. I already have a Juki TL-18QVP. I was considering a Juki 8700 industrial, but don’t really have the room at the moment. I have a cylinder arm machine for heavy duty. I need another machine a little beefier than the Juki but not as big as the cylinder arm. This machine looks like the HD9 (parent company is Janome) and it is soooooooo pretty I had to give it a go. Your video not only makes me feel better but I am now even more excited to get the machine! The color really is gorgeous! Thank you for your review!!

[@EmporiumThreads]

What an exciting purchase! I’m so glad you found the video and it eased your mind :) I hope you love it, it really is such a beauty and joy to use! Best ❤️

[@Jesslyn92]

Thanks for the video! Was looking for information about this machine and came across your review for quite awhile. It was a really detailed one. May I know if there is dual voltage for this machine and if you could recommend any shops (especially from Arizona) that sell this machine? Thankyou in advance!

[@jeaninedrylie1499]

I really enjoyed your review of this "new-to-me" semi-industrial machine as a bag-making option. In the few months you've been using it now, I was wondering if you had gotten to test how it handles cork. Thanks for any insight you might have on that.

[@EmporiumThreads]

I myself don’t sew with cork often, so I can’t recall if I specifically did some cork sewing. However, everything I sew is 3x or thicker than cork and since it’s been handling all of that wonderfully, I think that cork would be perfectly fine. I don’t see any reason that it wouldn’t be great with cork and be able to handle it easily.

[@chimknee]

Thanks for this. I would rather have better lighting than a dust cover.

[@EmporiumThreads]

I fully agree, especially since I never use my dust covers. I don’t regret getting the Elna. A year later and I use it all the time, love the motor, the lighting, the space. ❤️ it’s awesome.

[@elsieturoci4404]

By the say, there are two separate motors. You can wind a bobbin while sewing 😊

[@EmporiumThreads]

Huh did not know that! Very cool tip! I don’t think I’m skilled enough to sew and wind at the same time but still a cool thing to know :)

[@user-my3eu2hu1e]

Nice feature because you then do not have to unthread your machine in order to wind a bobbin! I love that!

[@elsieturoci4404]

I have this machine and love it. Do know the thread cutter is loud and one has to press hard on the button. This machine is quite like a truck.😂 I have sewn just about anything on it, but mostly use it for jeans, canvas, cork or other thick materials. Thanks for an excellent review.

[@dorriewatson9929]

Love your reviews! I’m a Juki gal, but feel I need to roll down to an Elna dealership and try for myself. I’m of the understanding bonded poly and bonded nylon threads shouldn’t be cut with a thread cutter…maybe why it was a little grumpy about doing so.😊

[@EmporiumThreads]

Thanks Dorrie! Glad you enjoyed the video :) it’s always fun to experiment and try something new. Nothing wrong with a little “window shopping” at the dealer.

[@claudettehall6538]

This is like the Janome 1600P. The manual said not to use the thread cutter on heavy weight threads. It's a great machine.

[@PatchworkPirate]

You are correct. Janome owns Elna, and they are basically the same machine. The 1600P-QC uses a smaller bobbin, while the Elna elnita ef1 (and Janome HD9) all use the jumbo bobbin. There are a couple of other differences, including a heavier duty threading mechanism for thicker projects, but unless you're bag making or sewing with leather it won't really matter.

[@marcellafisher8317]

I wonder if the thread cutter has trouble with the thicker thread?

[@marionbartley214]

Hello I'm enjoying this review and this sewing machine seems wonderful. except I would like to know the throat space height? I sew quilts and do a lot of piecing. and I realize piecing doesn't require as much height, as quilting a quilt. But throat space height is a very important feature I'm looking for. if you could let me know the height that would be great. Thank you for your time in making this video. looking forward to seeing more of your videos.

[@EmporiumThreads]

So glad this was helpful to you. I just measured and the height from bed to top of throat space is 5 3/4”. The width from the inner wall to needle area (with space for the needle screw, etc) is 8 1/2”. I hope those measurements help you :)

[@mardenechristian2699]

Have you been able to try"the little rebel" by Grace?

[@user-de3lq5tk6i]

Elna is owned by Janome. I have this machine and love it! I've had it about 3 months and it is a pretty beast! Can I buy Janome HD9/1600P accessories for it? Will they work with this machine or do I have to buy Elna brand?

[@debraewing2859]

You can buy Janome parts for it. I work at a Janome/Elna dealership, and the Janome/Elna accessories are the same.

[@EmporiumThreads]

So glad you love this machine also. I love it too! Happy your question was already answered by a helpful viewer. :) hope you find some wonderful accessories! Happy sewing and thanks for watching :)

[@elisabethgill1646]

Hi, I would like to give a try to this machine , so is there a way that the company provides it for a trial if I get to make a youtube presentation as you are doing?

[@EmporiumThreads]

No. I was not compensated in any way or have any affiliation with any company/machine I do a review for. I don’t do paid partnerships or even receive gifts from any company. I purchased each machine with my own money. I will have a new video out soon and that machine is the only exception- it was borrowed from a friend. For this specific series of 3 videos, each machine needed to hit 3 criteria. Be a Semi industrial/straight stitch machine, be available on Amazon since not everyone has the same access to a dealer but most get Amazon, and be under $2000.00usd. If you purchase from Amazon directly and not a 3rd party, you may be able to return a machine if it’s in good working order (or you have an issue). Each listing has its own rules and regulations so be careful buying to return. You don’t want to do that or you could end up with that machine being non returnable. In my case I wasn’t buying to return, I was genuinely looking to buy and I did. Hope that helps :)

[@luisellacherchi4180]

Ciao volevo sapere di più sulla macchina semi industriale Elena ef1 . E dove si acquista è il suo prezzo. Ti ringrazio Luisella

[@Karinlo100]

I have a Janome HD9 (bought 1 month ago). The Janome HD9 just looks the same like the Elna that you Show and also the functions Look exactly the same. only the color is white and not mint. I Reality Like my Janome so I can recommend it definitely.

[@ginapyle8635]

How much is the HD 9. More like $2,000?

[@Karinlo100]

@@ginapyle8635 I paid 1529 EURO in Germany

[@allieq]

Would you recommend for HD9 for bag making? I’ve been debating between it & the Juki TL 18

[@Karinlo100]

@@allieq I would definitely recommend the HD9 for bag making. That was the reason why I bought it and it has Not disappointed me. No skipped Stitches, and when it happened I changed the Needle and it was Perfect again. I made 5 backpacks and around 7 bags with Canvas/Oilskin/Straps, Zippers with it. I Cannot say anything about Vinyl or leather though. I have also gotten the walking foot and made a quilt Panel with it. It worked good. I would buy it again.

[@Karinlo100]

There are also many usefull comments

[@GypsyWomanWindy]

I feel like it's the thicker thread when using the cutter. My Juki 2010 cuts the smaller thread no problems , but when I use TEX45 it does not like cutting , sounds really clunky. So I never use the thread cutter unless I'm using thinner thread.

[@EmporiumThreads]

You are likely right. I still use it from time to time but I’m so used to snips, I don’t even bother. Most of the time it works okay but then it still gets weird. I’ve just given that up. I love everything else about the machine so it’s not a deal breaker for me.

[@GypsyWomanWindy]

@@EmporiumThreads I have 2 Elna machines , yours is beautiful!! I don't really use them anymore , I've jumped to the Juki 2010 and the Juki 1181. If I get back to quilting I'll go back to them. 🪡✂️🧵

[@jeanshep52]

It probably doesn’t like cutting the thicker thread. I only use the cutter on thinner threads on my Juki TL 2000.

[@debraewing2859]

Agree. From my reading and research, it is not good on the cutter to use it on Tex thread. The cutter works well with regular (40 and 50 wt) thread.

[@TheCynedd]

I know that the Elna brand is owned by Janome but I have to go with the Elna company slogan: "Elna Smooth." Given the choice I would rather have an Elna. The mechanical machines last forever and, if you treat them well, they will last at least one lifetime.

[@EmporiumThreads]

That is the perfect slogan to describe this machine. So far, I have absolutely loved this machine and I find I really look forward to using it. IMHO, if you don’t look forward to sewing on the machine and feel relaxed about using it, that just means there is a better option out there. I am so happy with my final choice of machine. Love the Elna!!

[@mardenechristian2699]

Have you evere reviewed EVERSEWN QE? Results?

[@EmporiumThreads]

I haven’t reviewed that brand, no. It’s not one that’s come across my desk.

[@mardenechristian2699]

Thank you for your reply. I have seen the Elna Ef1. I must check it out further as I only seem to need straight stitch. Your honest and through review was most appreciated. Thank you

[@luisellacherchi4180]

34:56

[@orinnoco2919]

It looks a lot like Janome HD9, no kidding!

[@EmporiumThreads]

I’ve heard that :) I know someone who has and HD9 and she said the same thing! I have not been disappointed in this machine yet so I would say as this machine is quite a bit cheaper, it’s a viable option to look at for the same results.

[@PatchworkPirate]

It is the exact same machine as the HD9 v2. Janome owns Elna.

[@orinnoco2919]

@@PatchworkPirate Thank you so much for the info!

[@lauramasonoff8675]

Can you drop feed dogs on this machine?

[@EmporiumThreads]

I don’t see a button or lever to easily do it. Doesn’t mean you can’t but I don’t see it promoted in the manual or listed as a feature either. I’m going to guess no since I don’t see it easily or readily mentioned. There may be a more manual way to do it that I don’t know of though.

[@dalvaserranomondesi]

I love the machine, but the price is way to high, even more than an industrial . I wonder how it does on more vinyl layers??

[@EmporiumThreads]

I’ve been using it for months and months now. It sews splendidly on many layers. I love it and it’s by far the best choice out of all the straight line machines I reviewed, imo. My industrial was on the cheaper side for a fully loaded machine with table, servo motor, lights, and all the kit. It was around 1700.00 so this still comes in cheaper. But the biggest thing is that many don’t have room or want an industrial. And personally, I wanted a machine that I could travel with. I can’t travel with my industrial and while this is heavy, it’s been great on retreats and such. :) I’m so pleased I found this machine!

[@dalvaserranomondesi]

I have the brother PQ 1500, but the height of the presser foot is not that great when sewing many layers ..... I do have the room for an industrial, but hesitant as I have seen that some have the same issues , like skipped stitches even with the powerful ones like the Juki 1181. The other " portable" that I have looked into is the Sailrite walking foot one.... just a $100 cheaper than the one you reviewed.

[@CommunistCommando1]

Hey cutie-pie, I have a second hand Elna 3003. Do you know what year this machine was brought out? Thank you ;)

[@F-M-U]

Hmmm I'm gonna be brutally honest with you and the viewers. Firstly this new machine is actually a rebranded Janome 1600, come on, you didn't see it??? Now, Janome bought out Elna some time ago. You're seeing the connection now. So, what you have there is a nice machine, but, it is an old model, very old model. The HD9 is a much better machine, newer with better controls. I didn't catch you mentioning the price but it would be interesting to hear about the comparison between the 1600 sorry, elna, in regard to the HD9.. it's pretty, it's functional, but is it really new... sorry to burst bubbles but you did seem experienced and yet I don't see the resemblance. You can get a 1600 Janome for a reasonable price. Please do compare... happy sewing...

[@mistifaery]

Why ruin the joy? This is a beautiful and wonderfully built machine. Color and style are actually a really big deal. The color alone brightens the room and the mood. So it’s not the best of the best. That’s not what she is reviewing. Bursting people’s bubbles just makes you feel smarter than the rest of us, but isn’t helpful. We know we have other choices, but this is the prettiest work horse on the market and that brings a lot of joy!

[@F-M-U]

What a load of tosh. That is a knee jerk comment and not terribly useful. My comment was to educate so those considering purchasing an expensive machine so they had the facts, so they can make an informed choice. The review is not complete if all the details are not right. Simple. Not pedantic, not trying to be clever, just honest. I guess you may have bought one based on how pretty it is? Either way, I think you're edited comment is possibly just argumentative rather than useful. Enjoy sewing, be well and try not to take offence to honesty.

[@EmporiumThreads]

I’m not sure whose bubble you thought would be burst. No one made any of the claims you think you’re “debunking” here about “newness” or when someone else bought out who… none of that matters or applies, frankly. The machine is new, to me. I just bought it when this was filmed. It’s a new machine for me. No one claimed it was brand new out on the market. I bought a machine, I reviewed it. All the machines I reviewed for this series fell into the same parameters. They had to be available online (no dealer required), each had to be around the same budget/cost of under 2k and each had to perform well, with lots of features that are useful for bag making. The HD9 cannot be bought except through a dealer, and it’s well over budget for this series. Simple as that. It wasn’t reviewed or tried for that reason. I love this Elna. I’m glad I tried it. I still love it all this time later, it sews magnificently and I don’t regret buying it or recommending it. No sweat if it’s not for you. And yes, the color is just beautiful and that is absolutely a fun feature. Happy sewing!

[@EmporiumThreads]

Whole heartedly agree and very much appreciate your sentiments here. The color does bring a lot of joy and this machine still sews beautifully over a year later. I adore it and I know I made the right choice for me :) Thanks for watching and thank you for your comment. Full bobbins and perfect stitching to you! ❤️❤️❤️

[@F-M-U]

Thank you for your reply. I got a couple of replies that were terribly offended by my honesty and it was just honesty. Nothing meant to offend, rather to help make those thinking of getting one aware. As long as you're happy with it that's all that matters. The enjoyment and art of sewing is a wonderful thing. Happy sewing.

[@Chi9ja]

doesn't this just look like one of those Janomes?

[@PatchworkPirate]

Janome owns Elna, and it's the same machine (w/ a better price point!)