I am new to sewing although my machine isn't. I have a Janome Mod 692 all mechanical, no computers, machine which will zig zag fine if i turn the wheel by hand or sew very slowly; as soon as I speed up the width narrows to almost nothing. Another possibly related problem is the stitch length seems to be too short i.e. maximum setting gives only about 3 mm. minimum about 1/2 mm!
The machine hasn't been use for ages, but seems to be OK and all the bits I can see are well lubricated. Any ideas? A service may be the answer, but would cost me $89 and as a pensioner this is an expense I would rather not pay if the machine has to be replaced.
Thanks in advance for any advice, cheers from Coffs Harbour in Australia.
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Stitch length wouldn't make that much of a difference - but stitch WIDTH would - that needs to be set for a wider width than for straight stitching. Also, the upper tension (NOT the bobbin!) needs to be loosened to get a good z-z stitch.
Your user guide should walk you through the correct settings (on some models there might be 4 different settings that want adjusting). If you don't have the user guide, you can usually download a free copy from the Janome website.
If none of the above helps resolve the problem, you will either have to give up on machine sewing, or take the machine for that servicing. $89AUD is bad enough but if the repair tech finds a part that wants replacing, that $89AUD can turn into far more - vintage machines become 'money pits' and at a certain point retirement is the wiser course.
For around $100AUD you can purchase a new, under warranty, simple sewing machine. Janome makes several fine entry level machines; other good brands for beginners are Singer, and Elna - but be sure to look for one with the 'top drop-in bobbin system' whichever brand you choose. The top drop-in system is by far the easiest to learn, use, and maintain.
Wish I could tell you something more helpful. Cheers from NE Scotland:)
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