Sewing machines are complex pieces of equipment, with a range of settings and parts that need to be adjusted and regulated to achieve the desired results. The feed dogs on a Janome sewing machine are one of those parts and they’re used to help guide the fabric as you’re sewing. But how do you adjust the feed dogs on a Janome sewing machine? This article will explain the process step-by-step.
The first step is to locate the feed dog lever. This lever will be found near the needle on the face of the machine. Depending on the model of Janome sewing machine you’re using, the lever may be located slightly to the left or right of the needle.
The next step is to raise the presser foot. This can be done by pressing the presser foot lever located at the back of the machine. On some models of Janome machines, the foot lever is located on the side of the machine.
After raising the presser foot, the feed dogs should be visible and the next step is to adjust the lever. Push the lever up to lower the feed dogs, or down to raise them. Depending on the fabric you’re working with, lowering the feed dogs can help it glide smoother across the fabric.
For fabrics that require more stability, such as knitted fabrics, raising the feed dogs can help to grip the fabric a little better. It’s important to note however that the type of stitch being used for the fabric should also be taken into consideration when adjusting the feed dogs. For example, some stitches require the feed dogs to be lowered, while others may require them to be raised.
It’s also important to note that the feed dogs should only be adjusted when the machine is turned off. This is to prevent the needle from becoming damaged and to avoid potential accidents. Once the desired setting has been achieved, the machine can be turned back on and the stitches can be tested.
Maintenance
In order to keep the feed dogs of a Janome sewing machine in the best condition, regular maintenance of the machine is required. This should involve cleaning the machine, including the feed dogs and adjusting any loose parts. It’s also important to ensure that the needle is sharp and able to penetrate the fabric with ease.
It’s important to also change out the needle as often as recommended by the manufacturer and to check that it is suited for the fabric that’s being used. Additionally, it’s important to ensure that the tension is set correctly for the fabric and thread being used.
Finally, regularly check the working parts of the Janome sewing machine to ensure that they are not worn out or damaged. If any parts seem to be damaged or worn out, it’s best to replace them in order to ensure that the machine is able to perform at its best.
Choosing the Right Fabric
When adjusting the feed dogs on a Janome sewing machine, it’s important to consider the type of fabric that’s being used. Different fabrics require different feeds, so it’s important to consider the fabric’s thickness and weave when making adjustments.
For example, lightweight and delicate fabrics such as chiffon and silk can require a fine feed setting. This is to help prevent the fabric bunching and to allow it to move smoothly across the machine. On the other hand, heavier fabrics such as denim and tweed may require a coarser feed setting in order to prevent the fabric from slipping or sagging as it is being stitched.
It’s also important to note that the machine’s feed dogs can only help to guide the fabric, they cannot hold it in place. It’s advisable to use the machine’s built in needle and foot controls to help position the fabric as it’s stitched, rather than relying solely on the feed dogs.
Different Feed Dogs
The feed dogs on a Janome sewing machine may vary in size, depending on the model. Generally, there will be either three or four feed dogs located on the bottom of the machine. The larger the feed dogs, the more grip they have on the fabric. It’s important to adjust the feed dogs when the machine is turned off, so that the needle won’t move and potentially damage the fabric.
On some models of Janome machines, there may also be an additional feed dog located in the needle plate. This can help to grip the fabric as it’s being stitched, as well as providing an extra layer of stability as the fabric is moved across the machine.
When adjusting the feed dogs, it’s important to think about the fabric you’re working with and the stitch and tension settings. Uneven tension can cause the fabric to bunch or wrinkle and the feed dogs should be adjusted accordingly. If the feed dogs are too low, the fabric may slip or move too quickly, and if they’re too high, the fabric may be pulled too tightly and stretched as it is stitched.
Selecting the Right Stitch
While the type of stitch being used usually doesn’t affect the feed dogs, it can play a key role in achieving the desired results. It’s important to select a stitch that is best suited for the fabric being worked with. For example, for knit fabrics, a zig-zag stitch may be more effective than a straight stitch.
Additionally, the stitch length and width should be adjusted depending on the fabric. Sewing on a tighter stitch may help to grip the fabric slightly better and create a neater stitch. However, stitches that are too tight can cause the fabric to stretch and distort as it is stitched.
Finally, when selecting a stitch, it’s important to consider the type of thread being used. If the thread is too light for the fabric, the stitching may be easily pulled out or pulled apart. On the other hand, using a too heavy thread can cause it to stretch and break.
Using the Right Pressure
When adjusting the feed dogs on a Janome sewing machine, it’s also important to consider the pressure being used to guide the fabric. If the pressure is too light, the fabric may tend to slip, whereas if it’s too heavy, the fabric may bunch or be stretched as the feed dogs move it across the machine.
It’s important to use the right amount of pressure to ensure that the feed dogs are gripping the fabric but not pulling or pushing it too much. Generally, the pressure should be light and even, but firm enough to keep the fabric in place.
Additionally, it’s important to ensure that the sewing machine is correctly oiled and adjusted. This will help to ensure that the machine is running smoothly and that the feed dogs are able to grip the fabric correctly.
Friction-less Feeding
Finally, when adjusting the feed dogs on a Janome sewing machine, it’s important to ensure that the fabric is moving friction-less across the machine. This can be done by using a lubricant such as a non-stick silicone foot. This helps to reduce the friction on the fabric as it is being stitched, allowing it to move smoothly across the machine.
It’s also important to ensure that the needle is correctly adjusted, as an incorrectly adjusted needle can cause the fabric to bunch or wrinkle. Additionally, if the fabric is not moving smoothly, it’s best to adjust the tension. If the tension is too tight, the fabric may be stretched as it is stitched, whereas if the tension is too loose, the fabric may move too quickly.
When adjusting the feed dogs on a Janome sewing machine, it’s important to take into account the fabric being used, the stitch, the tension and the pressure. By understanding the correct settings for each, it’s possible to achieve professional results every time.
