Janome sewing machine problems and fixes

Janome problems at a glance

Bobbin winding problems

On many Janome machines, the bobbin winds only when the thread passes through the bobbin winding guide, sometimes called the pre-tension disc, on top of the machine. If the thread skips that guide, the bobbin winds loose and lumpy, which causes tension trouble later.

Push the bobbin winder spindle fully to the right until it clicks. On many models the bobbin stops winding on its own when full. When you finish, push the spindle back to the left. On many Janome machines the needle will not move while the spindle is still in the winding position, and computerized models may show a message about it.

1. 1

   Place the spool on the spool pin with the right size spool cap.

2. 2

   Guide the thread through the bobbin winding guide as shown on the machine.

3. 3

   Thread the end through a hole in the bobbin from the inside out and set the bobbin on the spindle.

4. 4

   Push the spindle to the right, hold the thread end and start winding.

5. 5

   After a few turns, stop and trim the tail close to the bobbin, then finish winding.

6. 6

   Push the spindle back to the left before sewing.

Bobbin insertion and bobbin type

Janome drop-in bobbins must sit in the bobbin holder so the thread unwinds in the direction shown on the diagram near the bobbin cover. On many Janome drop-in models, the thread runs counterclockwise. Then the thread must be pulled through the slot and under the spring of the bobbin holder. If it misses the spring, there is no bobbin tension and stitches will be loose or loop.

Use the bobbins your manual lists. Many bobbins look alike but differ slightly in height or shape, and a bobbin that does not fit properly can rattle, cause uneven stitches or jam. The sewing machine bobbin size chart explains the main types, but your manual is the final word.

Note.Do not mix metal and plastic bobbins in a machine designed for one type. Some drop-in systems are made for plastic bobbins only.

Thread nests, loops and tension

A wad of thread under the fabric is almost always a top threading problem. If the top thread is threaded while the presser foot is down, the tension discs are closed and the thread sits outside them. Raise the presser foot, raise the needle to its highest point, remove the top thread and thread it again through every guide and the take-up lever.

Hold both thread tails lightly toward the back for the first few stitches of a seam. That prevents the start of the seam from being pulled down into the bobbin area.

If stitches still look unbalanced, adjust the top tension dial one step at a time and test on scrap. Many Janome machines have an automatic or default tension setting marked on the dial; check your manual. Full tension diagnosis is in sewing machine tension problems and thread bunching underneath.

Skipped stitches, broken needles and jams

If a jam has stopped the machine, turn it off, cut the tangled thread, remove the needle plate and bobbin holder and lift out the thread. Do not force the handwheel. See sewing machine keeps jamming, skipping stitches and needle keeps breaking.

1. 1

   Put in a new needle. Use Ballpoint or Stretch for knits, Jeans for denim and Universal for most wovens; see the needle size chart.

2. 2

   Make sure the needle is pushed all the way up with the flat side to the back and the clamp screw is tight.

3. 3

   Check that the presser foot matches the stitch. A straight-stitch foot or plate used with a zigzag will cause the needle to strike it.

4. 4

   Remove the needle plate and clean lint from the feed dogs and around the bobbin holder with a brush.

5. 5

   Check the bobbin holder is seated correctly and has no nicks or burrs.

6. 6

   Sew slowly over thick seams, or walk the handwheel over them.

Reverse, feeding and machine will not sew

On many computerized Janome machines, the reverse button behaves differently depending on the stitch. With straight and some zigzag stitches it sews backward while you hold it. With some decorative and stretch stitches it sews locking stitches in place and stops. If reverse seems broken, try it on a basic straight stitch first and check the stitch chart in your manual.

If fabric does not move, check that the feed dogs are raised, the stitch length is not at zero and the presser foot is down. Packed lint between the feed dog teeth can also stop feeding.

If the machine will not run at all, check the power and foot control plugs, the bobbin winder spindle position, and any message on the screen, such as a request to lower the presser foot or the buttonhole lever. If the machine stops because of a safety cutoff after a jam, switch it off, clear the jam and wait before restarting. Persistent electrical faults need a Janome dealer or technician.

When to get service or replace

Book a service if the needle hits the hook area, the machine makes new grinding or knocking sounds, or stitches stay poor after all the checks above. Those can mean timing or internal wear. See how often to service a sewing machine.

If you are weighing a new machine, read is Janome a good sewing machine brand and see the best Janome sewing machines. For a comparison with another popular brand, see Janome vs Brother sewing machines.

See the best Janome machines →

Frequently asked questions

Why is my Janome not sewing even though the motor runs? On many models, the needle will not move while the bobbin winder spindle is pushed to the right. Push it back to the left.

Why does my Janome make a nest of thread under the fabric? The top thread was most likely threaded with the presser foot down, so it is not in the tension discs. Raise the foot and rethread.

Which way does the bobbin go in a Janome? Follow the diagram near the bobbin cover. On many Janome drop-in models the thread unwinds counterclockwise and must pass under the bobbin holder spring.

Can I use generic bobbins in a Janome? Use the bobbin type your manual specifies. A bobbin that looks similar but differs in size or material can cause loose stitches or jams.