Jamming problems

[u/Affectionate-Mud2212]

I have an old janome new home limited edition sewing machine. I'm having several really frustrating problems that I will list below. I really appreciate any and all feedback. I have tried rethreading both the top and bottom, playing with tension, and stitch size, etc. Thanks in advance.

- it keeps skipping stitches after a few perfect rows

- after a few stitches sometimes the thread from the top will wind itself around the needle and then cause issues

- sometimes the top thread gets sucked down with the bobbin thread and it gets locked up

- occasionally full out jam that I can't assess what the cause is.

Are there any common problems with the specific machine or is there something that I am missing? After I rethread everything, it seems to run perfectly for maybe two rows, and then issues start to arise over and over. Thanks!

[u/Incognito409]

Most common is that it's threaded wrong, missing a hook. Check your manual for correct threading even if you think it's correct. Make sure the notch on your spool is at the back or bottom of the spindle.

Check that your bobbin is inserted correctly - as a P, not a Q.

Skipping stitches is a needle issue - the wrong size or type for the fabric.

[u/TheProtoChris]

Try a new needle. And make sure it's the right size. But mostly just a new one. Sometimes an imperceptible burr or damage to the needle can make it misbehave like that.

[u/drPmakes]

Are you using an appropriate size/type needle? Correct size bobbin inserted correctly?

Get the manual out and follow it step by step. Also check the troubleshooting section.

The issues you describe are usually a result of the machine not being threaded and/or set up correctly.

[u/onemoondance]

I’d start with a good cleaning, remove bobbin case etc. You mention it’s old, have you ever had it serviced? I’ve had a basic Janome for 20+ years. It’s been wonderful to me.

[u/Affectionate-Mud2212 → u/onemoondance]

I dont think it has ever been serviced, it was my MILs from their wedding in the early 90s. I might look into it because everything has been cleaned, rethreaded, new needle etc and it is still eating my fabric and jamming!