It is important to know how to use and operate a Janome Sewing Machine in order to get the most out of your sewing projects. As with any machine, the ability to move the needle position on a Janome sewing machine is an essential part of the sewing process. This article explains the steps to move the needle position on a Janome sewing machine, as well as provide tips and tricks to ensure that the process is smooth and successful.
First of all, the most important thing to do before attempting to change the needle position on a Janome sewing machine is to disengage the needle from the fabric.
To disengage the needle, turn the handwheel to lower the needle into the fabric. This will allow for the needle to move freely and for the machine to handle the positioning process. Once the needle is disengaged, you can start to turn the handwheel in the opposite direction to move the needle position. You may need to move the needle position a few times before you reach the desired position.
Secondly, ensure that the presser foot is raised before attempting to move the needle position. This will help protect the fabric from being puckered or damaged while making an adjustment. Most sewing machines have a foot lift lever and a foot control lever that should both be raised.
Thirdly, use the appropriate tie off method for the fabrics you are working with. For lighter fabrics, such as chiffon and satin, you want to make sure that you tie the thread off to maintain even tension and prevent the fabric from fraying. For heavier fabrics, such as denim and corduroy, you may need to use a stronger method to tie the thread off, such as an overhand knot.
Finally, make sure that you re-engage the needle in the fabric and lower the presser foot before starting to sew. If you do not do this, it can result in damage to the fabric and the machine.
How to maintain the needle position
It is important to maintain the needle position while sewing in order to ensure that the stitches are even and properly aligned. As with any machine, the Janome sewing machine has a number of features that allow you to maintain the desired needle position.
The first is the fabric guide, which is a metal guide that is placed next to the needle. It helps guide the fabric as the needle moves across the presser foot. This allows for the needle to move in a straight line and ensures that the stitches are properly aligned.
The second is the tension dial, which is used to adjust the amount of tension in the thread. If the tension is too tight or too loose, the fabric may be puckered or otherwise misaligned. The tension dial should be adjusted periodically throughout the sewing process to ensure that the tension is consistent.
Finally, the needle up/down button is used to control the needle position while sewing. By pressing the button, you can easily move the needle up and down without having to turn the handwheel.
Tips and tricks
The following tips and tricks can help you to get the most out of your Janome sewing machine when changing and maintaining the needle position:
-Use the tie off method to secure the thread when making adjustments to the needle position. This will help to prevent any fraying or damage to the fabric.
-Make sure that the presser foot is raised when making adjustments to the needle position. This will help to keep the fabric from being puckered or damaged.
-Adjust the tension dial periodically throughout the sewing process. This will ensure that the tension is consistent and will help prevent puckering or misalignment.
-Use the needle up/down button to control the needle position. This will help you to keep the needle in the right spot without having to manually move it by turning the handwheel.
-Always disengage the needle from the fabric before attempting to move the needle position. This will help to ensure that the machine can handle the positioning process without any damage to the fabric or the machine.
Testing the needle position
Once you have adjusted the needle position and have begun sewing, it is important to test the needle position to make sure it is consistent. To do this, you should make a few stitches on a scrap piece of fabric, and then turn the fabric over and look at the back side. If the stitches are even and consistent, then the needle position is correct.
If the stitches are not even or consistent, then the needle position may need to be adjusted. You can make the adjustment by turning the handwheel to move the needle position, or by using the needle up/down button.
It is also a good idea to use a seam ripper or scissor to remove excess threads or fabric from the stitching line after making the adjustment. This will help ensure that the needle is able to move along the fabric without any obstructions.
Sharps needles and delicate fabrics
When working with delicate fabrics, such as chiffon and satin, it is important to use a sharp needle. If a dull needle is used, it may result in puckering or damage to the fabric. If you are using a Janome sewing machine, make sure that the size of the needle corresponds to the weight of the fabric that you are using.
It is also important to use a thinner thread when working with delicate fabrics. A thick thread will be more likely to pucker or damage the fabric, so it is best to use a light or medium weight thread.
Using Janome’s drop feed feature
One of the most useful features on a Janome sewing machine is the drop feed feature. This feature allows you to quickly and easily drop the feed dogs in order to adjust the needle position without having to manually turn the handwheel. To use this feature, simply use the lever on the machine to drop the feed dogs and then turn the handwheel to move the needle position.
This feature is especially useful when working with multiple layers of fabric or when making curved or detailed stitch patterns. By dropping the feed dogs, you will be able to move the needle more freely and accurately, ensuring that the stitches are properly aligned and consistent.
Practice makes perfect
Like anything else, practice makes perfect when it comes to changing and maintaining the needle position on a Janome sewing machine. The more you practice and become comfortable with the process, the easier it will become. Before attempting to sew any project, it is always a good idea to test the needle position out on a scrap piece of fabric.
In addition, it is important to familiarize yourself with the features and controls of the machine, such as the fabric guide, the tension dial, and the needle up/down button. With practice and a little patience, you will be able to get the most out of your Janome sewing machine.
