Janome Continental M8 Sewing and Quilting Machine
Janome Continental M8 Sewing and Quilting Machine
Janome
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Janome Continental M8 Sewing and Quilting Machine
Specifications
Accessories Included
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- Flagship professional-grade sewing machine built with a full metal frame for maximum durability, stability, and performance.
- THROAT SPACE: 13.5” workspace — expansive area for quilts, bulky layers, and large projects.
- SPEED: Up to 1,300 stitches per minute — fast, smooth sewing with precision control.
- KEY FEATURES: Accurate Stitch Regulator, one-touch needle plate conversion, automatic presser foot lift, and 7” color touchscreen with intuitive navigation and precision settings.
- PRECISION FEEDING: Designed for accuracy across quilting, bag making, and structured sewing projects.
- FABRIC CAPABILITY: Handles everything from lightweight fabrics to heavy quilts and layered materials with ease.
- Scroll down for the complete list of features, specifications, and included accessories.
Key Features
- A.S.R. (Accurate Stitch Regulator): Included accessory maintains consistent stitch length during free-motion quilting, adjusting automatically in real time as you sew.
- AcuFeed™ Flex Plus System: Dual-feed system moves fabric from the top and bottom layers simultaneously, preventing shifting on quilts, plaids, and multi-layer projects.
- Computerized One-Touch Needle Plate Conversion: A touch-screen release and patented magnetic system swap plates instantly, with no tools required.
- HP Needle Plate Included: The Professional Grade HP plate ships alongside the standard zigzag and straight stitch plates for precision sewing.
- Expansive Work Area: Approximately 13.5” to the right of the needle and 17.81” of total workspace, with a slim needle area design for improved visibility.
- Extra Large Seamless Flatbed: Powder-coated, all-metal flatbed provides a smooth, uninterrupted surface that reduces drag and supports large projects.
- Extension Table Included: Extra-wide table measuring approximately 26.77” x 15.75” adds support for quilts and large projects.
- Convenience Controls at Your Fingertips: Start/Stop, Reverse, Locking Stitch, Needle Up/Down, and Thread Cutter are all positioned for easy access.
- Automatic Presser Foot Lift: Raises and lowers the presser foot without manual effort, making pivoting and repositioning effortless.
- 7" HD Touchscreen: Functions like a tablet, giving intuitive control over settings, stitches, and functions.
- Advanced Lighting: Bright white LED lighting delivers shadow-free illumination, with an optional AcuView™ magnifier available for detailed work.
- Optical Bobbin Monitoring System: Tracks thread supply in real time and issues an early warning before the bobbin runs out.
- Expanded Sewing Applications: Automatically selects settings and recommends the right presser foot for your project, with added functions like zipper insertion and heirloom techniques.
- Quilt Block Advisor: Calculates cutting sizes and seam allowances for popular quilt patterns like Nine Patch and Log Cabin.
- Speed, Strength & Stability: DC brushless motor reaches up to 1,300 stitches per minute, backed by a full metal frame for smooth, vibration-reduced performance.
- Creative Capability: 450 built-in stitches, 3 fonts, and 12 sensor buttonholes (plus one automatic) support both creative and production sewing.
- Everyday Efficiency: Superior Needle Threader 2 and independent bobbin winding motor keep everyday sewing fast and efficient.
- Included Accessories: Zipper foot, blind hem foot, and three free-motion quilting feet are included, along with an accessory box and the extension table's storage drawer.
The Janome Continental M8 is Janome’s flagship sewing machine, built for sewists who want precision, power, and a fully equipped experience from the start. Designed for high-level quilting, garment construction, and structured sewing, the M8 delivers professional performance with control and consistency.
At its core, the M8 is engineered for stability and accuracy. The full metal frame allows the machine to sew smoothly at high speeds while maintaining consistent stitch quality across everything from delicate fabrics to thick, layered projects. Whether you’re working on detailed stitching or larger pieces, the M8 handles it with confidence.
What sets the Continental M8 apart is its advanced technology and included features. The Accurate Stitch Regulator (A.S.R.) maintains consistent stitch length during free motion quilting, giving you precision without needing additional equipment. The AcuFeed Flex™ Plus system ensures even feeding across multiple layers, making it ideal for quilts, bags, and structured projects.
The M8 is designed to streamline your workflow. With one-touch needle plate conversion, an automatic presser foot lift, and a 7" color touchscreen, switching between techniques and adjusting settings is quick and intuitive. Multiple included needle plates and accessories allow you to move from piecing to decorative sewing without interruption.
This is not a machine you outgrow. The Continental M8 is built for sewists who want everything at their fingertips from day one, combining performance, innovation, and long-term capability into one complete sewing system.
We recommend the Janome Continental M8 for serious quilters, garment sewists, and makers who want Janome's most advanced technology, workspace, and included accessories in a single machine.
450
Stitches3
Fonts12
Buttonholes7” LCD Touchscreen
Screen9mm
Max Stitch Width5mm
Max Stitch LengthYes
Thread CutterYes
Needle Threader13.5” W x 5.5” H
Throat SpaceUp to 1,300 SPM
Sewing SpeedAcuFeed Flex
Feed SystemYes
Knee LiftClass 15 (Style A)
Bobbin TypeHAx1 (130/705H)
Needle System38.4 lbs
Machine Weight25.6” x 14.6” x 10”
Machine Dimensions
Zig-Zag Foot
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Zig-Zag Foot
- The Zig-Zag Foot A comes standard on all Janome Sewing machines and is used for most utility sewing, from straight stitch to zig-zag.
- The unique Black Leveling Button on the side will help you over the hump when sewing over thick seams.
- The Zig-Zag Foot A is also called the All-Purpose Foot or General Sewing Foot.

Overcast Foot
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Overcast Foot
- Use with the Overlock stitch to give a professional finish to the edges of your seams.
- Particularly good for finishing off medium to heavyweight, easily frayed woven fabrics such as tweed, gabardine, and linen.
- It has a guide to help you line up your seam.

Satin Stitch Foot
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Satin Stitch Foot
- For sewing dense zig-zag stitching.
- The bottom of the foot is beveled for smooth delivery of thread when sewing decorative or satin stitches.
- Foot is made of clear plastic making it easier to view stitching.

Blind Hem Foot
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Blind Hem Foot
- Blind hemming can sometimes be a little bit tricky so the blind hem foot goes some way to helping improve this technique.
- The foot has a metal guide in the center and three grooves on the underside. During blind hemming, the fold of the fabric fits snugly against the guide in the foot for accuracy while the groove underneath help to prevent unnecessary slipping.
- The needle swings over the metal guide creating slack in the upper tension so that the pick of the stitch is almost invisible.

Zipper Foot
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Zipper Foot
- This foot can be set to sew on each side of the zipper by adjusting the position of the foot and tightening the thumb screw.
- Also great for sewing close to piping.

Concealed Zipper Foot
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Concealed Zipper Foot
- Good quality ready-to-wear garments will often have an invisible zipper fitted. The Concealed Zipper foot can ensure success everytime.
- Invisible zippers are suitable for all fabrics from fine silk jersey through to suit weight wools and tweeds.
- The key is to get the needle as close the fastener as possible, which this foot accomplishes by slightly unrolling the zipper just before the needle. Once fitted, a well sewn invisible zipper will merely look like part of the seam.

Automatic Buttonhole Foot
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Automatic Buttonhole Foot
- For sewing buttonholes on tight areas such as cuffs and other areas where more freedom of movement is required than available with a sliding-type buttonhole foot.

Buttonhole Stabilizer Plate
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Buttonhole Stabilizer Plate
- With Buttonhole Foot R attached to the Buttonhole Stabilizer Plate, the machine feeds various kinds of fabric and uneven layers more smoothly instead of pulling fabric in or causing the needle to stick in position.

Rolled Hem Foot
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Rolled Hem Foot
- The Rolled Hem Foot is used to stitch the narrow rolled hems usually found on shirt tails, table linens and along the edge of frills.
- This foot is designed with a scroll-shaped feeder on top and a straight groove on the underside which determines the width of the finished hem.

Open-Toe Satin Stitch Foot
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Open-Toe Satin Stitch Foot
- The open-toe on this foot allows a better view of the sewing in progress.
- This foot can be used for quilting, monogramming, applique and cutwork.
- This foot can also be referred to as a front open toe satin stitch foot.

Button Sewing Foot
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Button Sewing Foot
- Quick and easy button sewing with the special button sewing foot.
- The collapsible legs make it easy to fold and take with you on the go — perfect for traveling sewists.
- This foot has two bars that attach to the foot shank to provide extra stability and also has a textured, rubber sleeve to hold the button securely in place while sewing.

¼″ Seam Foot
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¼″ Seam Foot
- A popular foot for quilters for that essential ¼″ seam.
- The guide on the foot enables you to sew a perfect ¼″ seam every time.
- The guide can also be used wherever a ¼″ seam is called for but the markings on the needle plate cannot be used, such as when completing a flat seam.

¼″ Seam Foot Without Guide
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¼″ Seam Foot Without Guide
- The ¼″ seam foot without the guide is an incredibly versatile tool for various piecing projects.
- Similar to the standard ¼″ seam foot, it allows you to achieve precise ¼″ seams by aligning your fabric with the edge of the presser foot.
- The wider surface of the foot ensures stable fabric feeding. Constructed from durable metal, this foot offers strength and reliability.

Professional Grade Foot (HP)
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Professional Grade Foot (HP)
- Inspired by the narrow gauge of industrial accessory feet and the ideal conditions of straight stitching from the left needle position, the HP Foot offers superior visibility and control.

Darning Foot Set
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Darning Foot Set
- Sometimes referred to as the embroidery foot, the darning foot is used for “free hand” embroidery and darning to ensure proper stitch formation, minimize skipped stitches and puckering and also protect your fingers while you move your fabric freely under the needle.
- Especially beneficial to those just learning how to do free hand embroidery.
- The open-toe version greatly improves visibility of stitches and is especially popular with quilters.
- Includes both open-toe and closed-toe versions.

AcuFeed Dual Feed Foot and Holder
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AcuFeed Dual Feed Foot and Holder
- Also referred to as the walking foot.
- The Dual Feed Foot for AcuFeed comes standard with all models with the AcuFeed System.
- The foot is specially designed to engage the AcuFeed system, and move the top layer of fabric in sync with the bottom layer.

User Manual
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User Manual
- A paper copy of the user manual is provided and includes several language options.
- We encourage you to take the time to read your manual thoroughly, as every machine has a learning curve — regardless of your sewing experience. After all, technology is always evolving!

AcuFeed Flex Professional Grade Foot (HP2)
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AcuFeed Flex Professional Grade Foot (HP2)
- For use in combination with Professional Grade Needle Plate (HP)
- This foot provides superior visibility with the shape of the slit at the front of the foot.
- Holds fabrics firmly in sync with the feed dogs to achieve professional results.
- Great for curves and precise topstitching due to the narrow foot width.
- Provides smooth feeding of top layer of fabric in sync with bottom layer for quilting and sewing leather or vinyl.
- Matching the edge of the fabric against the edge of the foot will give you a perfect 1/4″ seam allowance.

Free Motion Quilting Set
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Free Motion Quilting Set
- The Free Motion Quilting Foot Set includes the holder and three feet:
- Open-Toe Foot — For general use and extra visibility.
- Closed-Toe Foot — For general use with lace and catchable fabrics.
- Zig-Zag Foot — Used for free motion embroidery, quilting and stippling.

Variable Zig-Zag Open-Toe Foot
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Variable Zig-Zag Open-Toe Foot
- An open type variable zig-zag foot which makes it easy to see how your stitches look as they form.
- Especially useful for detailed areas, layered stitch finishing or thread painting.

Ruler Work Foot
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Ruler Work Foot
- This foot was developed for doing ruler work.
- Installs easily into the machine and is operated by your knee while positioned under the table.
- Guide quilting templates along the edge of the foot to create straight, curved, or repetitious patterns depending on your ruler or quilting template.
- The V-shaped gap in the front enhances visibility.

Button Shank Plate
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Button Shank Plate
- This button shank plate is used when attaching buttons to thicker fabrics.
- When sewing on the button, this plate is placed between the button and the fabric to prevent the button from pulling on the fabric.

Bobbin Set
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Bobbin Set
- Set of five standard Janome bobbins
- There are several types of bobbins on the market. Using the incorrect size and type of bobbin can affect stitch quality and could possibly damage the machine.
- These clear plastic bobbins are compatible with all Janome Sewing and embroidery machines except the 1600P, HD9, MB4, and MB7.

Assorted Needle Set
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Assorted Needle Set
- This set contains: two blue tip needles, one purple tip needle, one red tip needle, and one twin needle.

Lint Brush
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Lint Brush
- Perfect for cleaning around the bobbin, the feed dogs and any other accessible areas.

Seam Ripper
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Seam Ripper
- The standard seam ripper included with most machines.
- Also known as a buttonhole opener.

Quilting Guide Bar
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Quilting Guide Bar
- The quilting guide bar attaches to the walking foot for equal placement of rows of stitches or use to follow a seam.

Large Screwdriver
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Large Screwdriver
- Screwdriver to help remove needles and other accessories from your machine.
- Screwdrivers should be used to tighten or loosen screws when needed gently.
- Never over-tighten, and never use power tools on Janome machines.

Spool Net Set
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Spool Net Set
- Spool nets help to keep your thread in place and prevent it from tangling during your sewing projects.
- This set contains two spool nets.

Large Spool Cap Set
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Large Spool Cap Set
- This set contains two large spool caps.
- Spool caps prevent the leading thread from catching the head of the spool while the machine is running. In general it helps the thread properly unwind.

Small Spool Cap Set
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Small Spool Cap Set
- This set contains two small spool caps.
- Spool caps prevent the leading thread from catching the head of the spool while the machine is running. In general it helps the thread properly unwind.

Special Spool Cap Set
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Special Spool Cap Set
- This set contains two special spool caps.
- Sometimes, a large spool will not fit on your horizontal spool pin with enough room for the spool cap to attach properly.
- This special spool cap allows the spool to be held tight to your spool pin without falling off or creating a gap.

Spool Rest Set
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Spool Rest Set
- This set contains two spool rests.
- Also called spool supporters, these are a specialized accessory designed to hold thread spools securely.

Knee Lifter
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Knee Lifter
- With a full range of adjustment from left to right, you can find the position that fits you best — whatever your size or height.
- You can now sit directly in front of the needle with the knee lift perfectly positioned for free-motion quilting or general sewing.

Touch Panel Stylus
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Touch Panel Stylus
- This stylus is designed to help you navigate the touch screen with ease, providing precision and accuracy when selecting settings or designs.

Zig-Zag Needle Plate
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Zig-Zag Needle Plate
- Large zig-zag stitch needle plate assembly for the Janome Sewing & Quilting Machines.
- Comes set on machine.

Straight Stitch Needle Plate
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Straight Stitch Needle Plate
- Used for straight stitching in the center position.
- The straight stitch plate helps provide a more stable base.
- The smaller opening is great for working on fine fabrics that are prone to getting pulled into the feed dogs.

Hook Cover Plate
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Hook Cover Plate
- Clear plastic for clear visibility to the bobbin so you can see how much thread you have left before it runs out.

Professional Grade Needle Plate (HP)
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Professional Grade Needle Plate (HP)
- Accurate stitches and perfect starts on any type of fabric has gotten easier.
- This straight stitch plate works great in conjunction with the HP foot for curves and precise topstitching.

Hook Cover Plate (HP)
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Hook Cover Plate (HP)
- Clear plastic bobbin cover designed for the Professional Grade Needle Plate (HP)
- Clear plastic for clear visibility to the bobbin so you can see how much thread you have left before it runs out.
- It clips or slides into place and covers the bobbin to stop it jumping out, without this bobbin cover plate the machine will not stitch correctly.

A.S.R. (Accurate Stitch Regulator) Kit
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A.S.R. (Accurate Stitch Regulator) Kit
- The exclusive Janome stitch regulation system kit comes standard with the Continental M8 and includes four feet:
- Closed-Toe Foot — Use for free motion quilting.
- Open-Toe Foot – Use for free motion quilting. The front of the foot is open for better visibility of stitches.
- Clear-View — Use for zig-zag free motion quilting. Use for the bumpy quilt of the echo quilting.
- Ruler Work — Janome Exclusive. Use with quilting rulers to create professional-looking shapes.
- With the added benefit of setting the sensor’s sensitivity, you can adjust the regulation as your skills build.

Cloth Guide
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Cloth Guide
- Cloth guides come in all shapes and sizes – from a piece of tape stuck to your sewing machine to a flange on the side of a foot. But they have one thing in common: they make it easier to sew a consistently even seam width.
- Designed to allow for maximum fabric surface contact and visibility.
- To use just remove the plastic see-through hook cover plate, align the cloth guide with the tabs, and snap it in place. The guide creates a rigid and reliable surface for aligning your fabric as you sew.
- It’s just that easy! Just snap the guide in, set your measurement on the bar, and sew! No need to measure or mark your fabric.

Extra Wide Table
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Extra Wide Table
- This large extension table fits perfectly against the machine giving a much larger work surface and extra support for all your projects.
- Dimensions: 15.7” W x 26.7” L

Semi Hard Fabric Cover
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Semi Hard Fabric Cover
- Rigid and durable, this cover keeps dust off your machine and protects it from scratches.

Accessory Box
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Accessory Box
- Store your Janome presser feet, bobbins, marking tools, and more!
- The top storage tray includes 12 presser foot storage areas and two sections for small items such as packs of needles.
- Below the tray is a compartment with a bobbin area that will store your bobbins snugly so that they won’t unravel, one large compartment for tools such as markers or awls, and two small compartments for other small notions.

Power Supply Cable
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Power Supply Cable
- This power cord is for 120V compatible in both the United States and Canada.

Extra Large Foot Controller
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Extra Large Foot Controller
- The extra large foot controller is bigger and easier to use.
- The larger top surface enables a greater level of control.
- Rubber covers the back surface so it won’t slip and is simple to operate.

Remote Thread Cutter Switch
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Remote Thread Cutter Switch
- Save time and cut thread with your foot! Keep your hands on your quilt and snip the threads by pressing the pedal on the remote thread cutter switch.
- The remote thread cutter switch can be used alongside the extra large foot controller.

Foot Control Base
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Foot Control Base
- This is the base plate that attaches the large white foot petal and the smaller cutter switch on the same platform.

Set Screw A
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Set Screw A
- Comes with 4 screws.

Set Screw B
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Set Screw B
- Comes with 2 screws.

Washer
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Washer
- Comes with 2 washers.
Glide 40wt. Threads
Glide 40wt thread offers a silky sheen without the lint. Made in the USA from 100% polyester, it’s strong, smooth, and ideal for quilts, bags, and more — available in 300+ vibrant colors.
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Sewing Machine Needles
Needle & thread are the most important step to successful sewing. There is more than just one needle style and size. Discover the different style needle tips that can truly elevate your stitches.
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Accessories
With the right sewing machine, you can start a project with confidence; but with the right feet to assist you, you can zoom through it with precision and ease. Explore the dozens of accessories Janome has to offer to elevate your sewing.
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