Janome My Lock Serger Manual

The Janome My Lock Serger is a professional-grade overlock sewing machine designed for creating finished seams, decorative edges, and professional finishes on various fabrics. It features differential feed, adjustable stitch length and width, built-in rolled hem capability, easy threading system, and color-coded threading guides. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation & Setup 3. First-Time Operation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Threading Instructions 7. Stitch Selection & Techniques 9. Maintenance & Cleaning 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Differential feed system, color-coded threading, built-in rolled hem, adjustable stitch length/width, free arm capability, built-in thread cutter.

FeatureDescription
Differential FeedPrevents fabric stretching or puckering
Color-coded ThreadingEasy thread path identification
Built-in Rolled HemQuick conversion for narrow rolled hems
Adjustable Stitch Length1.0mm to 4.0mm range
Adjustable Stitch Width2.0mm to 7.0mm range
Free ArmFor sewing sleeves and hard-to-reach areas
Built-in Thread CutterConvenient thread trimming
LED LightIlluminates work area
Tension DialsIndividual controls for each thread
Presser FeetIncludes standard and specialty feet

Installation & Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable sewing surface.

  1. Remove packaging materials and protective covers
  2. Attach foot controller to machine port
  3. Plug power cord into electrical outlet
  4. Install presser foot according to instructions
  5. Wind and install loopers and needles
  6. Thread machine following color-coded guides

WARNING! Keep fingers away from moving parts during operation. Always unplug when not in use.

First-Time Operation

Power on serger; test on scrap fabric first.

  1. Select basic overlock stitch (3-thread or 4-thread)
  2. Set stitch length to medium (2.5mm)
  3. Set stitch width to standard (5.0mm)
  4. Adjust differential feed to N (normal) position
  5. Test stitch on scrap fabric of similar weight to project
  6. Adjust tensions as needed for balanced stitch

CAUTION! Always start with needle in highest position. Keep work area clean and organized.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Main controls: Stitch length dial, stitch width dial, differential feed dial, tension dials, presser foot lever.

Stitch Length Dial: Controls distance between stitches (1.0-4.0mm). Stitch Width Dial: Adjusts cutting width (2.0-7.0mm). Differential Feed: Prevents stretching (lower than 1.0) or gathering (higher than 1.0). Tension Dials: Individual controls for upper looper, lower looper, and needles.

Threading Instructions

Follow color-coded threading path for each thread.

  1. Raise presser foot and needle to highest position
  2. Follow numbered threading sequence (1-4 or 1-5)
  3. Use color-coded guides: Upper looper (blue), lower looper (green), needles (red/yellow)
  4. Ensure threads are properly seated in tension discs
  5. Pull threads under presser foot toward back
  6. Test thread chain before sewing

Tip: Thread machine with presser foot raised to ensure proper tension disc engagement.

Stitch Selection & Techniques

Various stitches for different fabric types and finishes.

  1. Basic Overlock: For seam finishing on woven fabrics
  2. Rolled Hem: For narrow hems on lightweight fabrics
  3. Flatlock: For decorative seams and joining fabrics
  4. Gathering: Use differential feed above 1.5
  5. Stretchy Seams: Use 4-thread safety stitch for knits
  6. Decorative Edges: Use contrasting thread in loopers

WARNING! Always test stitch on fabric scrap. Adjust tensions for different fabric weights.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance.

  1. Unplug machine before cleaning
  2. Remove lint from feed dogs and loopers with brush
  3. Oil machine according to maintenance schedule
  4. Check needle regularly for damage
  5. Clean tension discs with folded fabric strip
  6. Store covered when not in use

CAUTION! Use only Janome recommended oil and accessories.

Regulatory Information

UL Listed: Complies with UL 1278 standard. FCC Part 15: Class B digital device. Copyright © Janome America, Inc. For technical support, visit www.janome.com or contact 1-800-631-0183. Made in Taiwan.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Thread breakingIncorrect tension or threadingRethread following color codes; adjust tension
Fabric puckeringDifferential feed too highReduce differential feed to 1.0 or lower
Uneven stitchesDull blade or incorrect tensionSharpen/replace blade; balance tensions
Machine jamsLint buildup or thread caughtClean lint; remove tangled thread
Needle breakingWrong needle type or bent needleReplace with correct needle type
Poor rolled hemIncorrect stitch width settingAdjust to rolled hem position; use correct foot

Service: 1-800-631-0183; www.janome.com

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