Replies

1. 
   Jenlin | Sep 27, 2007 10:26pm | #1

   I have a Janome coverstitch 1000 and find it very easy to use, but must admit that I have not sewn much this summer, so hope to give it a better work out when the weather cools here in NC.  It is easy to thread and not much can go wrong as it is a fairly simple machine but does its job well in my opinion.  Jenlin

2. 
   Tnuctip | Dec 03, 2007 02:45pm | #2

   I have one of these. The only problem I had was with the automatic tension release when the foot is raised. The work would not simply pull freely as I expected. After some bad language I worked out that you have to turn the hand wheel slightly to release the tension - but not in the direction a machine sewer would naturally do it - and have now marked the hand wheel with a stick on arrow to remind me which way to turn.

   On jerseys the hem can be a bit awkward to keep from rolling, maybe because the bed of the machine feels very flat compared with my Husq sewing m/c, but that might just be me. I bought the machine to avoid iron on stabilising tapes (and burnt fingers) so perhaps I'm just a lazy sewer.  I also feel like I'm sitting next to the machine rather than in front of it when I'm in line with the needles. Prob just me tho'

   The free arm is not as I would have expected - a little table sort of slots in and out, but it does do the job.

   I am planning on sewing a coverstitch in reverse with a variegated thread as the covering to get a decorative edge on some seasonal tops.

   The most recent Threads has a tip on turning corners with a twin needle which will apply very easily to this machine. I'm going to be trying it out  in the next couple of days and will let you know if it comes out ok. 

3. 
   Tnuctip | Dec 10, 2007 02:01pm | #3

   Hi again.

   Your query was well timed as I had just pulled my machine out for my xmas top.

   If you are thinking of getting one of these machines I highly recommend the 'Cover Hem Guide' attachment. It cost me £15, and gives brilliant results. It has a stepped guide for the cut edge of the hem, a tuck-in finger that runs inside the folded hem as you stitch, a smoothing finger on the top that keeps ripples away from the foot, and a guide plate to run the hem edge against. Its the closest thing to foolproof I've ever used.

   It adjusts from 5/8" to about 1 1/2" hems but narrower are easy enough anyway. Just an ordinary seam guide would be fine for wider hems.

   You can get the attachment from Janome website.

1. 
   Dinna | Dec 10, 2007 05:35pm | #4

   I have the janome 1000 and enjoy it.  I do sometimes get a bit of rippling on t-shirt hems.  Does anyone know the solution for this?

1. 
   Tnuctip | Dec 10, 2007 08:55pm | #5

   On the Janome use the differential control - the lower dial closer to the front -  and adjust the setting on your test piece (cut to the same grain as your hem) to get best results.  Also adjust the stitch length ( the other dial) to give a shorter stitch length and closer coverage on the back for very stretchy fabrics, as the more thread in your seam the less likely the thread will break.

   I've also had good results with Steam a Seam - self adhesive on one side and iron-on the other. I dont like the miles of backing paper, or the clipping round corners much - and I always burn myself.  If you have access to curtain making supplies double sided iron on bias tape is available with a stitched line along the length. Its non sticky to use, but better for heavier weight than t shirtings.

   Your ripples may only be due to the way the hem is pressed up before sewing. I generally blast my hems with the most steam I can get and let it cool. If there is any rolling at the cut edge this can roll up as you sew, particularly if you stretch the edge as you go.

   I seriously would recommend the attachment. Visit a dealer and try one out. 

1. 
   Dinna | Dec 10, 2007 10:10pm | #6

   Thank you very much for your suggestions, they will be helpful.