Part One: Threading the Machine
Changing feet on a Janome sewing machine is a simple and straightforward process. The foot is held in place with a screw and can be replaced with a different type in just a couple of minutes. This can be useful if you’re looking to sew a specific kind of fabric, such as stretch fabric, leather, or denim.
Before removing the screw and making any changes, the needle should be raised in order to make the situation safer. It’s also a good idea to unplug the machine from the outlet so you won’t accidentally switch it on. Place the machine on its side in order to remove the foot and the screws.
The foot can either have a lever below it for attaching and detaching or come with a screw and/or lever for the same purpose. If it does have a lever, push it towards the back of the machine to release the foot. If it has a screw and leverage, use a screwdriver to loosen it. Depending on the machine, the lever or screw may need to be pushed or pulled in order to remove it from the slot in the machine.
After wheeling it off, all that is left to do is attach the new foot. Start by aligning the holes on the right side of the foot with the hole in the machine and then push it down slightly until it clicks in place. Now use the lever or the screwdriver once again to secure the foot and make sure it won’t be loose.
Part Two: Choosing the Appropriate Foot
Not all Janome sewing machine feet are the same, so it is important to make the right decision when buying additional feet. Different feet are best used for different types of projects; for instance, a zigzag foot is typically used for applying decorative stitching, while a straight stitch foot is used for regular straight stitching. A zipper foot is great for sewing zippers, and a blind hem foot is useful for hemming.
In addition to the feet available in stores, there are also universal presser feet that fit a wide range of Janome machines. The universal presser feet are often cheaper than specific Janome feet and may be appropriate for a large number of projects.
Part Three: Proper Maintenance and Care
Proper care of your Janome sewing machine is important for ensuring that the machine runs smoothly and efficiently. After removing the foot, take time to clean it and make sure the holes are not clogged or full of lint. Always use a soft cloth to clean the foot and try to use as minimal pressure as possible when doing so.
Make sure to remember which way up the foot needs to be placed when you take it out of the packaging, as this will make it easier to install it when needed. Also, it’s important to never force the foot into the machine, as this can damage both the foot and the machine.
When storing the feet, make sure to keep them in a safe place where they won’t be stepped on or knocked over. It’s also important to note that the feet should only be used on the machine they’re intended for, as mixing and matching feet could cause damage to the machine.
Part Four: Knowing When to Replace the Foot
Replacing the foot on your Janome machine can be an important part of the maintenance of your machine. Over time, the thread and fabric may begin to wear down the metal on the foot, and it’s important to replace the foot when this happens. The most common signs that the foot needs to be replaced is when the thread or fabric starts to pull instead of glide and when the edges of the fabric begin to fray.
If the foot is not replaced in time and the thread or fabric is allowed to wear down the metal on the foot, it can cause the machine to become unmovable and inoperable. Replacing the foot regularly can also help to improve the quality of your sewing projects and make them look more professional.
Part Five: Balancing the Tension
When replacing the foot on an older model of Janome sewing machine, it may be necessary to adjust the tension settings in order to make sure the stitch is even and there are no skipped stitches. Doing so is simple, as the tension control knob is easily accessible and located on the right side. It’s important to remember that too much tension can cause the fabric to pucker or pull, so it’s best to experiment with the settings to find the perfect balance.
Also, it’s important to make sure that the bobbin has enough thread, as this can also throw off the tension settings. Start by winding the thread around the tension control knob and then adjusting the tension control knob until the thread is balanced. If necessary, experiment with different settings until the tension is even and the stitches have an even look.
Part Six: Getting the Right Needle
Another important factor to consider when replacing the foot on a Janome sewing machine is the needle. Different feet require specific needles, such as stretch needles for stretch fabric or denim needles for denim. It is important to select the right needle as this can determine the quality of the stitch and the performance of the machine.
Selecting the wrong needle can cause damage to the fabric, decrease the quality of the stitch, or even jam the machine. When replacing the foot, take some time to find a needle that matches the fabric you’re using and that is recommended for the type of foot you’re using. Selecting the wrong needle can have disastrous consequences and should be avoided at all costs.
Part Seven: Choosing the Best Thread
The type of thread you use when replacing the foot on a Janome machine is also important. Not all threads are created equal; some will work better with certain types of fabric, while others may be better suited to a different type of fabric. Generally speaking, heavier threads are better for heavier fabrics, while lighter threads are better suited to lighter fabrics.
Also, it’s important to use a thread that matches the fabric. If you are using stretch fabric, for example, it’s important to select a thread that has an appropriate level of elasticity. Selecting the wrong type of thread can cause the fabric to be pulled when stitching and could result in uneven and poor looking stitches.
Part Eight: Keeping the Machine Well Oiled
In order to ensure that the Janome machine works properly when replacing the foot, it’s important to make sure it is well oiled. Most modern machines come with a special oil for this purpose, but it is possible to find oil that can be used on any machine in stores. Before oiling the machine, unplug it and make sure the machine is turned off.
With the oil in hand, use a brush or cloth to apply the oil to the moving parts of the machine, making sure to focus on the feed dogs, bobbin race, needle plate, and the fly wheel. After applying the oil, use a soft cloth to clean up any excess and make sure the machine is ready to go.