Janome KT-35 Common Problems and Troubleshooting
If you own a Janome KT-35 sewing machine, you might encounter some common issues during its usage. Don’t worry; this article is here to help you troubleshoot and resolve these problems easily. The Janome KT-35 is a remarkable sewing machine designed for convenience and efficiency.
However, even the best machines can face occasional challenges, and we are here to guide you through them. Let’s get started with an overview of the Janome KT-35 and its features.
Janome KT-35 Overview
The Janome KT-35 is a top-notch sewing machine that provides users with excellent performance and reliability. It is a sleek and compact machine that can handle various sewing projects with ease.
The machine features a sturdy metal construction, ensuring its durability and stability during use. With dimensions of 5″D x 11.42″W x 8.98″H and a weight of 2.2 kilograms (4.84 pounds), it’s a portable sewing companion for all your creative endeavors.
Product Details
| Brand | Janome |
| Color | White |
| Material | Metal |
| Product Dimensions | 5″D x 11.42″W x 8.98″H |
| Item Weight | 2.2 Kilograms (4.84 pounds) |
| Power Source | Electric |
| Is Electric | Yes |
| ASIN | B0057UDGF4 |
| Item Model Number | KKT-35 |
Features
- Sturdy metal construction for durability
- Compact and portable design
- Electric power source for easy operation
- Perfect for various sewing projects
- Efficient and reliable performance
Causes of Common Problems with the Janome KT-35
In this section, we will address some possible issues that you may encounter with your Janome KT-35 sewing machine and provide troubleshooting tips to resolve them. Let’s get your sewing machine back to its optimal condition!
Common Problems with the Janome KT-35
While the Janome KT-35 sewing machine is an excellent choice for your creative projects, you might encounter a few common issues during its use. Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered with troubleshooting steps for each problem. Let’s take a look at these problems and how to resolve them:
1. Thread Breakage – Jammed Needle
Description: One of the frequent issues you may face is thread breakage, often accompanied by a jammed needle.
Cause of the Problem: Thread breakage and needle jams can occur due to incorrect threading, using low-quality thread, or a bent or damaged needle.
Troubleshooting:
- Turn off the sewing machine and unplug it for safety.
- Check the threading path and ensure the thread is correctly threaded through the machine.
- Inspect the needle for any bends or damage, and replace it with a new needle if necessary.
- Use high-quality thread suitable for your fabric to reduce the chances of breakage.
- Restart the machine and test with a fabric scrap to ensure the issue is resolved.
2. Uneven Stitches – Tension Problems
Description: Another common problem is getting uneven stitches, where the top and bottom threads do not blend well.
Cause of the Problem: Uneven stitches are often caused by incorrect tension settings.
Troubleshooting:
- Refer to the machine’s manual to understand how to adjust the tension settings.
- Identify whether the issue is with the upper or lower thread tension and make the necessary adjustments.
- Test with different tension settings on a fabric scrap until you achieve balanced stitches.
- Ensure the needle and thread sizes are suitable for your fabric to avoid tension problems.
3. Machine Jam – Bobbin Winding
Description: Sometimes, the sewing machine might jam when winding the bobbin.
Cause of the Problem: The bobbin winding process can be disrupted due to improper bobbin placement or threading errors.
Troubleshooting:
- Turn off the machine and unplug it for safety.
- Check the bobbin winding mechanism to ensure it is correctly placed and engaged.
- Review the bobbin winding instructions in the manual and re-thread the bobbin if needed.
- Restart the machine and try winding the bobbin again to see if the issue is resolved.
4. Skipped Stitches – Needle Issues
Description: Skipped stitches occur when the machine fails to sew in certain areas while working on a project.
Cause of the Problem: Skipped stitches can be caused by a dull or incorrectly inserted needle.
Troubleshooting:
- Turn off the sewing machine and unplug it for safety.
- Replace the current needle with a new one, ensuring it is inserted correctly and facing the right direction.
- Use the appropriate needle size and type for your fabric to avoid skipped stitches.
- Test the machine on a fabric scrap to verify that the issue is resolved.
5. Bobbin Thread Showing on Top – Bobbin Tension
Description: If you notice the bobbin thread appearing on the top side of your fabric, it can be quite frustrating.
Cause of the Problem: This issue is usually caused by incorrect bobbin tension.
Troubleshooting:
- Turn off the sewing machine and unplug it for safety.
- Locate the bobbin tension screw and make slight adjustments as needed.
- Test the machine on a fabric scrap to find the optimal bobbin tension setting.
- Ensure the bobbin thread is properly wound and inserted into the bobbin case.
6. Machine Not Powering On
Description: If your Janome KT-35 is not turning on, it can hinder your sewing plans.
Cause of the Problem: The issue may be related to a loose power cord connection or a blown fuse.
Troubleshooting:
- Ensure the power cord is securely plugged into both the sewing machine and the power outlet.
- Check the fuse, if applicable, and replace it with the correct type if it has blown.
- Try using a different power outlet to confirm if the issue is with the power source.
- If the problem persists, seek professional assistance to inspect the machine’s internal wiring.
7. Uneven Feed Dogs
Description: The feed dogs may not be moving smoothly, leading to uneven fabric feeding during sewing.
Cause of the Problem: The feed dogs might be misaligned or require lubrication.
Troubleshooting:
- Consult the manual to locate the feed dog adjustment mechanism.
- Make adjustments to realign the feed dogs and ensure they move smoothly.
- If needed, clean and lubricate the feed dogs following the manufacturer’s guidelines.
- Test the machine with a fabric scrap to ensure the feed dogs are functioning correctly.
8. Bobbin Thread Tangles
Description: The bobbin thread might get tangled or form loops on the underside of the fabric.
Cause of the Problem: Incorrect bobbin placement, improper threading, or using the wrong bobbin type can lead to thread tangles.
Troubleshooting:
- Remove the bobbin and reinsert it into the bobbin case, ensuring it rotates in the correct direction.
- Double-check the threading path to ensure the bobbin thread is correctly threaded.
- Use the recommended bobbin type and thread for your Janome KT-35 model.
- Adjust the bobbin tension if necessary to prevent thread tangles.
9. Noisy Operation
Description: Unusual noises during machine operation can be disruptive and indicate a problem.
Cause of the Problem: The noise may result from loose parts or inadequate lubrication.
Troubleshooting:
- Identify the source of the noise by listening carefully while the machine is running.
- Tighten any loose screws or components that may be causing the noise.
- Lubricate the moving parts of the sewing machine as recommended in the manual.
- If the noise persists, seek professional servicing to identify and fix the issue.
10. Error Messages on Display
Description: If your Janome KT-35 has a digital display, error messages may appear, affecting functionality.
Cause of the Problem: Error messages can indicate various issues, such as incorrect settings or sensor problems.
Troubleshooting:
- Refer to the machine’s manual to understand the specific error message and its meaning.
- Follow the troubleshooting steps provided in the manual to resolve the issue.
- If the error persists, try resetting the machine to its default settings.
- If the problem remains unresolved, contact Janome customer support for assistance.
11. Skipped Stitches – Fabric Type
Description: Skipped stitches may occur when sewing specific fabric types.
Cause of the Problem: The fabric’s thickness or texture might be incompatible with the needle and thread combination.
Troubleshooting:
- Use a suitable needle size and type for the fabric you are sewing.
- Choose appropriate thread weight and composition for the fabric type.
- Test the stitch on a fabric scrap before starting the actual project to ensure smooth sewing.
- Consider using a walking foot attachment for challenging fabric types to improve stitch quality.
12. Needle Breakage – Sewing Speed
Description: Needles may break while sewing at high speeds.
Cause of the Problem: Sewing too fast or using the wrong needle for the sewing speed can lead to needle breakage.
Troubleshooting:
- Reduce the sewing speed when working with thicker or tougher fabrics.
- Use a needle suitable for high-speed sewing to prevent breakage.
- Ensure the needle is properly installed and tightened before sewing.
- Control the sewing speed to match the fabric and project requirements.
13. Thread Bunching – Incorrect Bobbin Insertion
Description: The thread may bunch up on the underside of the fabric.
Cause of the Problem: Incorrect insertion or positioning of the bobbin can cause thread bunching.
Troubleshooting:
- Remove the bobbin and ensure it is inserted correctly into the bobbin case.
- Check the bobbin winding tension to avoid excessive thread buildup.
- Ensure the bobbin thread is threaded through the machine’s guides properly.
- Adjust the upper thread tension if necessary to balance the stitch formation.
14. Fabric Pulling – Feeding Issues
Description: The fabric may be pulled towards the machine, causing uneven feeding.
Cause of the Problem: Incorrect pressure on the presser foot or uneven fabric tension can lead to fabric pulling.
Troubleshooting:
- Check the presser foot pressure and adjust it according to the fabric thickness.
- Ensure the fabric is evenly fed into the machine without excessive pulling.
- Use the appropriate presser foot for the fabric type, such as a walking foot for challenging materials.
- Hold the fabric with gentle tension as it feeds into the machine to prevent pulling.
15. Uneven Buttonholes – Sensor Calibration
Description: Buttonholes may appear uneven or have inconsistent sizing.
Cause of the Problem: The buttonhole sensor may require calibration or cleaning.
Troubleshooting:
- Refer to the machine’s manual to understand the buttonhole sensor calibration process.
- Follow the steps to calibrate or clean the sensor for accurate buttonhole sizing.
- Test the buttonhole on a fabric scrap to ensure it is now evenly sized and aligned.
- If the issue persists, seek professional service to diagnose and repair the sensor.
16. Bobbin Case Jam – Improper Cleaning
Description: The bobbin case may jam, affecting smooth bobbin thread movement.
Cause of the Problem: Accumulated lint or debris in the bobbin case can cause the jam.
Troubleshooting:
- Turn off the sewing machine and unplug it for safety.
- Remove the bobbin case and clean it thoroughly using a small brush or compressed air.
- Inspect the bobbin case for any signs of damage and replace it if necessary.
- Reassemble the bobbin case and test the machine to ensure smooth bobbin thread movement.
17. Thread Tension Discrepancy – Presser Foot Pressure
Description: The upper and lower thread tension may not match, causing imbalanced stitches.
Cause of the Problem: Inadequate presser foot pressure can lead to thread tension discrepancies.
Troubleshooting:
- Adjust the presser foot pressure according to the fabric thickness and type.
- Ensure the upper thread and bobbin are correctly threaded and tensioned.
- Test the stitch on a fabric scrap to confirm that the upper and lower threads are balanced.
- Make further adjustments as needed to achieve consistent stitch quality.
18. Thread Jam – Thread Path Obstruction
Description: The thread may jam in the machine due to obstructions along its path.
Cause of the Problem: Thread jams can occur when the thread gets caught on a rough surface or foreign object.
Troubleshooting:
- Turn off the sewing machine and unplug it for safety.
- Inspect the thread path, including guides and tension discs, for any obstructions or entangled thread.
- Carefully remove any trapped thread or debris using tweezers or a small brush.
- Ensure the thread moves smoothly along its path before resuming sewing.
19. Jammed Reverse Stitch – Clean and Lubricate
Description: The reverse stitch function may become jammed or unresponsive.
Cause of the Problem: Accumulated dust and lack of lubrication can affect the reverse stitch mechanism.
Troubleshooting:
- Turn off the sewing machine and unplug it for safety.
- Clean the reverse stitch lever or button to remove any dust or debris.
- Apply a small amount of sewing machine oil to the reverse stitch mechanism as per the manual’s instructions.
- Test the reverse stitch function to ensure it works smoothly.
20. Thread Fraying – Needle Size and Quality
Description: The thread may fray or break frequently during sewing.
Cause of the Problem: Using the wrong needle size or poor-quality thread can lead to thread fraying.
Troubleshooting:
- Ensure you are using the correct needle size and type for the fabric you are sewing.
- Use high-quality thread suitable for your sewing projects.
- Check the needle for any burrs or damage and replace it with a new needle if needed.
- Test the machine on a fabric scrap to ensure the thread no longer frays during sewing.
21. Uneven Thread Tension – Thread Guides
Description: The thread tension may vary across different areas of the fabric.
Cause of the Problem: Misaligned or improperly threaded thread guides can lead to uneven tension.
Troubleshooting:
- Check all the thread guides, including those on the machine head and needle area.
- Ensure the thread is correctly routed through each guide and tension disc.
- Make sure the thread flows freely through the guides without snags or loops.
- Test the machine on a fabric scrap to ensure consistent thread tension.
22. Needle Threader Malfunction – Cleaning and Adjustment
Description: The automatic needle threader may not work correctly or get stuck.
Cause of the Problem: Dust or misalignment can affect the needle threader’s functionality.
Troubleshooting:
- Turn off the sewing machine and unplug it for safety.
- Clean the needle threader mechanism carefully using a soft brush or compressed air.
- Check the alignment of the needle threader and adjust it if needed as per the manual’s instructions.
- Test the needle threader on a scrap of fabric to verify it works smoothly.
23. Bobbin Winding Error – Thread Tension
Description: The bobbin winding process may not work correctly, resulting in poorly wound bobbins.
Cause of the Problem: Incorrect bobbin thread tension or threading can cause bobbin winding errors.
Troubleshooting:
- Turn off the sewing machine and unplug it for safety.
- Re-thread the bobbin winding path, ensuring the thread flows smoothly and securely.
- Adjust the bobbin winding tension to achieve properly wound bobbins.
- Test the bobbin winding process to ensure it works without errors.
24. Skipped Stitches – Presser Foot Alignment
Description: The machine may skip stitches or struggle to sew over certain areas of the fabric.
Cause of the Problem: The presser foot might not be correctly aligned with the fabric or the feed dogs.
Troubleshooting:
- Ensure the presser foot is properly attached and aligned with the fabric.
- Check the fabric thickness and adjust the presser foot pressure accordingly.
- Verify that the feed dogs are clean and free from debris, allowing smooth fabric feeding.
- Test the machine on a fabric scrap to ensure it sews smoothly without skipped stitches.
25. Jammed Thread Cutter – Blade Alignment
Description: The thread cutter feature may get jammed or fail to cut the thread properly.
Cause of the Problem: The thread cutter blade may be misaligned or need cleaning.
Troubleshooting:
- Turn off the sewing machine and unplug it for safety.
- Inspect the thread cutter blade for any obstructions or debris and clean it carefully.
- Adjust the blade alignment, if possible, as per the manual’s instructions.
- Test the thread cutter to ensure it functions smoothly and cuts the thread cleanly.
Janome KT-35 Sewing Machine User Reviews
Customer reviews provide valuable insights into the Janome KT-35 sewing machine’s performance, functionality, and overall user experience.
Here, we’ll explore both positive and negative feedback from customers who have used the Janome KT-35 sewing machine. Please note that all information about user reviews is taken from the site Walmart.com.
Positive Reviews from Janome KT-35 Sewing Machine Users
- Some users were satisfied with the compact and cute design of the Janome KT-35 sewing machine. They appreciated its small size, making it easy to store and use without taking up much space.
- Expert users found the Janome KT-35 to be a perfect sewing machine for its price range. It offered a reasonable set of features and performance suitable for experienced sewers.
- Users praised the ease of setup and stationing of the sewing machine, making it convenient to work with.
- Despite being a basic model, customers appreciated the Janome KT-35’s affordability, considering its adorable “hello kitty” design.
- Some users shared positive experiences related to handling thicker fabrics by adjusting the foot pressure and ensuring proper oiling, resulting in smoother sewing without thread breaks.
Negative User Reviews of the Janome KT-35 Sewing Machine
- Some users reported difficulties with the bobbin winding process, with the thread not interlocking correctly and, in some cases, the machine not sewing at all.
- Issues with the thread cutter were also noted, with complaints about jamming and inadequate cutting performance.
- Several users experienced problems with the automatic needle threader, citing jamming and thread interlocking issues.
- Some customers found the sewing machine to be fragile and required careful handling, especially when dealing with the delicate thread bobbin and proper oiling.
- Inexperienced users faced challenges with the sewing machine, particularly with thread tension discrepancies, causing uneven stitches and sewing difficulties.
Please note that the experiences shared in these user reviews are based on individual perspectives and may not be indicative of the overall performance of the Janome KT-35 sewing machine.
Based on the gathered user reviews, the majority of users were satisfied with the Janome KT-35 sewing machine. They appreciated its compact design, affordable price, and functionality for both basic and expert sewing tasks.
However, some users encountered difficulties related to bobbin winding, thread cutter, needle threader, and delicate handling requirements.
While the positive reviews indicate a generally satisfactory user experience, the negative reviews highlight specific areas that might require improvement to enhance customer satisfaction.
It’s essential for potential buyers to consider both positive and negative reviews while making a purchasing decision, taking into account their individual sewing needs and skill levels.
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Janome KT-35 Sewing Machine Manual
The operating instructions and user manual for the Janome KT-35 sewing machine can be found on the manufacturer’s website.
Please visit the official Janome website to access the comprehensive manual, which provides detailed guidance on machine setup, threading, troubleshooting, and maintenance.
Following the manual’s instructions will help ensure proper operation and maintenance of your Janome KT-35 sewing machine.
Janome KT-35 Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: How do I adjust the thread tension on the Janome KT-35 sewing machine?
Answer: To adjust the thread tension, locate the tension dial on the machine. Turning the dial clockwise will increase the tension, while turning it counterclockwise will decrease it. We recommend experimenting with scrap fabric and different thread types to find the ideal tension for your specific sewing project.
Q2: What should I do if my Janome KT-35 sewing machine keeps jamming?
Answer: Frequent jamming can be caused by various factors, such as incorrect threading, using the wrong needle or thread, or having debris in the bobbin case. Refer to the troubleshooting section in the user manual for step-by-step instructions on how to clear jams and prevent them in the future.
Q3: Why is my Janome KT-35 sewing machine skipping stitches?
Answer: Skipping stitches can occur due to various reasons, such as using the wrong needle for the fabric, incorrect needle threading, or a bent needle. Ensure you are using the appropriate needle size and type for your project and that the machine is correctly threaded according to the manual.
Q4: How often should I oil my Janome KT-35 sewing machine?
Answer: Regular oiling is essential for the smooth functioning of your sewing machine. Consult the user manual for specific instructions on how often to oil your Janome KT-35 and the correct oil to use. Generally, the machine should be oiled after every few bobbins or as recommended in the manual.
Q5: What should I do if the thread keeps breaking while sewing?
Answer: Thread breakage can result from several factors, such as using old or low-quality thread, incorrect threading, or a damaged needle. Ensure you are using high-quality thread suitable for your sewing project and that the needle is in good condition. Re-thread the machine carefully, making sure the thread flows smoothly through all guides and tension discs.
Conclusion
For any issues or problems with your Janome KT-35 sewing machine, we advise referring to the user manual, reaching out to Janome customer service, or contacting an authorized service center whenever possible.
The user manual provides valuable information on troubleshooting common problems and ensuring proper maintenance of your sewing machine.
Additionally, professional assistance from customer service or service centers can help resolve more complex issues and ensure the best performance of your Janome KT-35.