There are many kinds of bobbins, metal, plastic and even the unthinkable – cardboard. In the beginning sewing machines used a single thread (chain stitch), but by the mid 19th century with the invention of the lockstitch, a two thread system was developed. Working beneath the fabric, the bobbin made this possible and revolutionized sewing forever. Let’s take a closer look at bobbins Janome recommends for use with Janome machines.
The Janome Standard: Bobbins are separated by class and material construction. Using the incorrect size and type of bobbin can affect stitch quality or could even damage the machine. Clearly visible, the Standard Janome (Class 15) Bobbin has an embossed letter “J” and are engineered to work with a Janome machine. The addition of a special rubber compound to the resin improves performance and reduces noise. No other bobbin will do.
To better you organize your thread types, Janome bobbins are available in many colours. Look for the letter “J” on the bobbin spindle – Your assurance of Janome quality and performance. More About “J” Bobbin Video
Bobbin Winding Basics
All standard Janome bobbins have a “notch” that is designed to lock the bobbin in place when winding. This notch prevents the bobbin from slipping on the winding spindle. Make sure the bobbin is seated correctly and “locked in” before winding. Available on most Janome models; a built-in three position bobbin thread cutter is located at the base of the bobbin winding unit. Winding techniques vary by machine. To correctly wind the bobbin, follow the instructions in the machine’s manual or use the illustrated diagrams found on the top of the machine.
That’s neat! The bobbin winding stop is used to control the amount of thread on the bobbin and automatically disengages at the desired capacity set position. It’s adjustable but wind with caution! An overfilled bobbin can scrape and bind inside the bobbin case.
Optical Bobbin Sensors: A handy higher end feature on some sewing, embroidery or long arm models, the built-in bobbin sensors reads the bobbin and alerts the user on screen or with an audible beep. This is a very important feature, especial when embroidering or stitching out long quilting patterns or runs. This feature can be found on models like the Continental M17, Skyline S9, MC1000/100E and some Long Arm Models
Independent Bobbin Winder: A dedicated motor can wind the bobbin while you sew. A handy feature found on select models MC6700, MC6650, HD9 Series, Continental M17, and Continental M8
Bobbin Cleaning
Regularly cleaning the bobbin area of your machine is one of the most important steps to keep your machine running smoothly. Included with most machines is a little brush to clean lint from the bobbin case or bobbin holder, and around the hook race which spins around the bobbin to form a stitch. If your stitches look funny, or the machine seems to be struggling while sewing, it’s often a sign you need to clean your machine.
Some machines also include a vile of “Cleaner” to wipe the bobbin holder and bobbin basket. This is NOT oil! Your Instructional Manual details how to use this if it’s included with your machine.
Pro Tip: use a lint-free, soft cloth, like an old T-Shirt scrap left over from a T-Shirt quilt, instead of a paper towel or tissues, which could leave lint behind. For more machine cleaning and maintenance tips, consult the back of your Instruction Manual, and your Janome Dealer/ Janome Authorized Service Technician.
Learn more about Bobbin Maintenance: Top Loading and Front Loading
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Other Video Resources
EZ-Wind (M-Class) Bobbins for Long Arm Quilters: The M-Class bobbin is the industry standard for most quilting frames and sit-down longarm machines. The high-capacity bobbin provides extended sewing times and permits long stitch patterns without the need to stop and refill. Made from metal, it improves stitch tension and prevents backlash.
The Janome Quilt Maker EZ-Wind Bobbin holds nearly twice as much thread as the standard L-Class bobbin and are available in packs of 8 at an authorized Janome retailer.
The Virtues of Independence:
An independent (or stand-alone) portable bobbin winder provides and uninterrupted workflow and consistent thread tension. Prep multiple bobbins in advance and be ready for a quick change over.
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> How to use the QMP Bobbin Winder
Because bobbin spindle sizes vary, the independent bobbin winder is only for use with Quilt Maker EZ-Wind M-Class metal bobbins. Works with the Quilt Maker Pro20, Quilt Maker 15 and Versa 20 models.
Jumbo Bobbins for High Speed Sewing: These high capacity and high speed specialty Janome bobbins hold 40% more thread than standard or traditional (L-Class) metal bobbins. More thread on the bobbin means more uninterrupted creative sewing time.
> Video: Inserting a Jumbo bobbin for the HD9
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What HD9 version do you have?
Jumbo Bobbins are engineered to only work with the corresponding bobbin race and case (bobbin holder) and are not interchangeable with each other. Before you add more bobbins to your sewing kit, locate the serial number on the back of the HD9 to determine your version.
Jumbo Bobbin Version 1
Slightly larger than the V2, the V1 metal bobbin with a flat top and bottom only fits the HD9 (Version 1), or muliti-needle MB4-S and MB7 models.
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DIAMETER: 23.9 mm
WIDE: 9.0 mm
CHARACTERISTIC:
Aluminum Aloy Construction
Flat Top/Bottom
Jumbo Bobbin Version 2
The new Version 2 with a slightly tappered top and bottom fits the HD9 Black Edition, HD9 (Version 2) and Heavy Duty 9 QC Professional.
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DIAMETER: 22.8 mm
WIDE: 9.9 mm
CHARACTERISTIC:
Aluminum Alloy Construction
Slightly Tapered Top/Bottom
Engraved Numbered Top
Metal Bobbins for High Speed Sewing: Small and mighty fast, these L-Class metal bobbins are designed to work with high speed sewing and select multi-needle embroidery machines only. They are similar in size to the standard J-Class bobbin but are not compatible with standard sewing or embroidery machines and should never be substituted with a plastic bobbin. For use with the high speed Memory Craft 1600P series and multi-needle embroidery MB4.
