Threading and Settings
Before starting any buttonhole project, it’s important to make sure that the Janome Sewing Machine’s settings are properly adjusted. First, thread the machine and the bobbin – make sure to use the right thread for the fabric being used. Once the thread is on, check the tension setting. It should be set to 4, which is the default setting for buttonhole stitching. If the fabric being used is very heavy, make sure to adjust the tension setting accordingly.
To create a buttonhole, the Janome Sewing Machine needs to be set on the zigzag stitch setting. This is usually a simple task, just turn the tension dial to the appropriate setting. For the Janome Sewing Machine model 7330, turn the tension dial to the left until the red mark is pointing at the buttonhole symbol.
Creating the Template
To make the buttonhole, a template needs to be created first. Take a piece of scrap fabric that is the same weight and thickness as the fabric that is being used for the project. On the scrap fabric, mark the size of the buttonhole that is going to be created. Mark the points that need to be sewn around to create the buttonhole as well as the center point of the buttonhole. Then, use scissors to carefully cut out the outline of the buttonhole. This will create a template that will be used for the stitching process.
Once the template is created, the scrap fabric template can be transferred onto the actual fabric for the project. To transfer the template, use a Tailor’s Chalk to trace around the template onto the actual fabric. These lines will act as a guide while creating the buttonhole.
Stitching the Buttonhole
Once the template is transferred onto the fabric, the buttonhole can be created. First, place the fabric into the sewing machine with the right side facing up and the buttonhole templates against the machine’s needle plate. Push the start button and the needle will move along the template, creating the buttonhole. The process might seem intimidating at first but with a little practice, it can be perfected.
Once the buttonhole is almost finished, the needle needs to be moved back to the starting position. This is usually done by manually moving the needle to the back of the fabric and pressing the start button. Now, the needle should move back to the starting position and a small gap in the buttonhole should become visible. This gap indicates that the buttonhole is complete and ready to be trimmed.
Trimming the Buttonhole
To secure the sides of the buttonhole, they need to be trimmed with a pair of scissors. The process is fairly straightforward – just hold the thread down with one hand and carefully snip the edges, being careful not to cut through the stitching. Once the edges are properly trimmed, the buttonhole is ready to be inserted with the button.
Adding Buttons
Once the buttonhole is finished, the button can be added. Before threading the needle, make sure to use a thread that is the same color as the fabric. Place the button under the center of the buttonhole and thread the needle through the button. Sew two or three stitches to secure the button before tying a knot, trim the excess threads, and pressing with an iron.
Using Automatic Buttonhole Settings
For novice seamstresses, the Janome 7330 model has automatic settings to help create the perfect buttonhole. To use these settings, set the stitch selection dial to the program buttonhole marker and set the tension dial to the center. The machine will then do all the work, recreating the template, stitching around the template, and cutting the edges of the buttonhole. The only thing left to do is to insert the button and the buttonhole is complete.
Finishing Touches
Once the button is inserted and the buttonhole is complete, press the finished buttonhole with an iron for a neat, professional look. The iron will help secure the buttonhole and ensure that it lasts. Pressing the iron from the wrong side helps to keep the buttonhole as sharp and crisp as possible.
Restitching Buttonholes
Sometimes mistakes happen and buttonholes need to be restitched. To do this, remove the stitches around the buttonhole and replace the template with a slightly bigger one. Make sure to use a template that is larger than the original buttonhole, as the stitching will shrink the size of the buttonhole when pressed. Stitch the new template around the buttonhole, trim the edges and press before adding the button.
Troubleshooting
If the buttonhole turns out too small, do not be worried. Simply replace the template with a larger one and stitch around it as before. If the buttonhole turns out too big, try replacing the template with a smaller one or use stabilizer tape to make the measurement more exact. Stabilizer tape can also be used if the stitches become uneven or when the buttonhole starts to fray. With a little practice and patience, creating perfect buttonholes with the Janome Sewing Machine is achievable.
