Threading the Bobbin
A Janome sewing machine is sewn with two main types of thread: the upper thread, which is provided by a spool, and the lower thread, which is wound around a bobbin. To get started on a project, set up the bobbin first by threading its thread through the bobbin case. To do this, begin by placing the bobbin in its case, making sure the thread is taut. Pull the thread through one of the slots along the edge of the case and feed it from the inside out. To hold the thread in place, tie a knot. As the thread continues, slip it over the tension spring in the middle of the case, and then lead it toward the right side.
The thread should now pinch the tension spring and pass through the second slot in the side of the case. From the outside, pull the thread until the knot is tight against the side of the case. Finally, gently tug on the thread and make sure that it is neither too loose nor too tight. Once the thread is appropriately tensioned, the bobbin is ready to be placed into the machine.
Loading the Bobbin into the Machine
Before loading the bobbin in the sewing machine, make sure to turn the machine off and remove the thread from the spool. Locate the bobbin and slide it into the bobbin compartment. Use the hand wheel located on the side of the machine to wind the thread onto the bobbin, in the same direction as the arrow. After the thread has been properly wound, turn off the hand wheel and disconnect the thread from the bobbin.
Next, open the machine’s presser foot and place the bobbin in its holder. Move the bobbin so that the tread is evenly distributed and the end of the thread is sticking out from the side of the bobbin. Lastly, guide the thread onto the take-up lever and set the presser foot back in its original position. The bobbin is now ready to be used in conjunction with the upper thread.
Threading the Needle
Once both the upper thread and bobbin are set up, it’s time to thread the needle. Before threading the needle, make sure to adjust the thread tension to a medium setting. To thread the needle, hold the end of the thread and pull it from the spool side of the machine. Gently insert the thread into the needle hole, and then pull it out. To secure the thread, guide it through the thread guide behind the needle and towards the spool holder.
Repeat the same steps with the bobbin thread, starting by guiding the thread towards the spool holder. Next, thread the thread through the lower thread guide and continue on the route alongside the thread wheel. Finally, bring the thread around the wheel and sneak it through the bobbin thread hole. At this point, the needle is properly threaded and both the upper and lower threads are in the correct position.
Setting Up the Presser Foot
The presser foot, which is the metal lever located on the bottom of the machine, should be adjusted to suit the type of fabric that you plan to sew with. To properly adjust the presser foot, set the lever to the appropriate setting that is suitable for the type of fabric you are working with. Generally, a heavier weight such as denim should be adjusted to a more robust setting, while a lighter fabric such as cotton should be adjusted to a more delicate setting. Once the presser foot is adjusted, the sewing machine is now ready for use!
Testing the Machine
Once the machine is set up and read to go, it’s time to test it out. To ensure that everything is working properly, pull a small regular stitch using the foot pedal at a medium speed. If the stitch is coming out correctly, then the machine is functioning properly. If the stitch is too tight or too loose, then adjust the thread tension until the stitch is even. Additionally, make sure to check the stitching pattern, as well as the way the fabric is running on the machine.
Continue testing the machine with a variety of fabric weights and stitch lengths to get a feel for how your Janome sewing machine works. Once you feel comfortable and confident with the machine, you’re ready to begin sewing.
Maintenance
To keep your Janome sewing machine in good condition, regularly clean the lint from the bobbin compartment and other areas of the machine. Additionally, keep an eye on the needle and the thread tension, as well as the way the fabric is running. Finally, perform a yearly service on the machine in order to prevent any major breakdowns or malfunctions.
Safety Precautions
When using a sewing machine, always make sure to utilize the proper safety precautions. Start off by keeping the machine away from children and pets, and make sure not to leave it unattended while in use. Additionally, do not leave the machine plugged in when not in use, and never touch the hot metal pieces of the machine. If ever the need arises to repair the machine, make sure to hire a certified technician to do the job.
Storing the Machine
When not in use, store the Janome sewing machine in a safe and dry environment. Additionally, make sure to keep lint, dust and other debris from seeping into the machine. To protect the machine from dust, cover it with a machine cover or store it in its original case.
Learn with Janome Educators
Janome Educators provide sewing classes and tips on how to properly use their machine. Generally, Educators are independent contractors with expertise in a variety of areas. Whether you are a beginner or a professional Sewer, it is important to take advantage of their knowledge and experience. This will improve your sewing, provide quick problem-solving techniques, and cut down on time spent on projects.
