Repairing tension on a Janome sewing machine can be a real headache. Many people feel overwhelmed when they lift the top lid and see the tangle of wires, springs, and pulleys. Customers often seek the help of a professional technician to solve the problem because they are not familiar with all of the parts of their machine. Although professionals can help to fix tension on a Janome sewing machine, it is possible to do it yourself.
Managing the tension on your Janome sewing machine is an important part of owning the machine. Without proper tension, the stitches can be off and the edges may not be smooth. To start, you will need to remove the top lid and take off the bobbin case. Be sure to clear the area around the tension regulator before you begin.
The tension regulator is responsible for controlling the tension on the thread. This can be done manually by turning the knob counterclockwise to loosen the tension or clockwise to tighten the tension. You may need to experiment with the tension to see what works best before you move on to the next step.
The bobbin tension must also be checked. The bobbin should have a certain amount of tension to it, in order to be able to sew properly. To check the bobbin tension, hold the bobbin between your fingers and give it a gentle pull. If the bobbin is too loose, you will need to adjust the tension regulator accordingly.
Before you replace the bobbin case, you need to make sure that the machine is threaded properly. Thread the upper thread lightly and make sure that the thread is passed through the tension disks and the take-up lever. Once you have done this, you can place the bobbin case back into the machine and adjust the tension regulator.
You should also check the needle section. The needle should be placed properly and should be secured in the needle clamp. Make sure the needle is in the correct orientation, as well. You may need to replace the needle if it is old or damaged.
The last step is to test your work. Turn the machine on and do a few stitches. If the stitches are even and the tension is correct, your machine is fixed. If the stitches are not even or the tension is still off, you may need to repeat the steps or take the machine to a professional technician.
Basics of Threads
Using the correct threads is essential for optimal machine performance. As the Janome sewing machine is a high-end machine, it’s worth investing in the highest quality threads available. If you want the stitches to hold, ensure that the thread you’re using is compatible with the machine’s tension regulator. Too light a thread can cause the tension to be too tight, while too heavy a thread can result in the tension being too loose. What’s more, try to match the color of the thread to the fabric so that the thread is as invisible as possible.
Winding Bobbins
When winding bobbins, it’s important to wind evenly with the appropriate tension. This can be done by making sure the tension disc on the top of the bobbin is not completely closed. If the disc is slightly open, the thread won’t be wound too tightly and won’t break when in use. Also, be sure to wind the bobbin onto the bobbin winder, as that’s how the thread unwinds when the machine is running, ensuring even distribution of the thread.
Machine Maintenance
A Janome sewing machine is a complex device and over time, it will suffer from regular wear and tear. To ensure that it functions optimally, it’s important to perform regular maintenance on the motor and other components. Make sure to clean the machine once a month, as dust and dirt buildup can have an adverse effect on the tension regulator and other parts of the machine. You should also keep the machine oiled in order to keep the tension regulator working properly.
Understanding Troubleshooting
Troubleshooting your sewing machine can seem daunting, but it’s not as complicated as it sounds. Step-by-step instructions can be found in the Janome manual supplied with the machine. By following these instructions, you’ll be able to test the tension and make sure that the thread path is clear and there are no pollutants blocking it. Additionally, the manual will provide detailed instructions on how to adjust the tension regulator and the tension discs, both of which should be addressed when dealing with a tension issue.
Re-Thread the Machine
It is also important to double-check to verify that the machine has been threaded properly. Additionally, use a seam ripper to remove any knots or tangled thread before re-threading the machine. The thread should be passed through the channel and then secured with the tension dial; however, the tension dial should only be adjusted if necessary. Additionally, ensure that the bobbin case is correctly threaded, as this could also be the source of your tension issue.
Changing Needles Frequently
Sometimes the tension issue may simply be due to a worn-out needle. It’s important to change needles regularly, as a worn-out needle can cause the thread to snag or stretch, which will throw off the machine’s tension. If a worn-out needle is the problem, the tension will be restored once the needle has been replaced. Additionally, make sure the needle is correctly placed in the needle clamp before re-threading the machine.
Run a Test Run
Once all the necessary troubleshooting steps have been completed, the last step is to run a test run to see if the tension has been adjusted. Sew a few test stitches on some scrap fabric and make sure the tension is uniform and the stitches look right. If the stitches look good and the tension is consistent, then you’ve successfully adjusted the tension on your Janome sewing machine.
