I’d like to try to use the Juki with some leather but I’ve never used it before. I’ve used Singer and Brother sewing machines before but I wouldn’t call myself an expert. Is there an official class or anyone who wants to show me the ropes?
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@ashleighannette is the person who has been playing around with it recently. @Jon also did some work with it not long ago,
It has been serviced recently, and has had its tension and timing corrected. Between recent users and YouTube, you should probably be able to learn enough to get started.
There is sewing machine oil on hand for lubrication before you start - and it needs s drop of oil in quite a few places before you start each session. One quirk - we are waiting for an oil pan to be made for it, so in the short term, expect that some oil will leak onto your pants while you’re working, so either wear something you don’t mind getting dirty, or cover your legs while working.
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I believe it is currently threaded. If you change the thread, just pay close attention as you unthread it so that you can learn the process that way.
There’s a manual on the wiki page that includes grainy but usable diagrams on how to thread it and where to oil. I have to check it every time I use the machine.
(it would probably make sense to post those near the machine, come to think of it).
There are tons of needles in the drawer. I think folks usually buy a 5-pack, use one, and leave the rest behind. No promises you’ll find any size or profile in particular. I found needles at Sew Much More in the “industrial” section - it’s not really in their wheelhouse but they’ve got the basics.
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The drawer is on the left hand side
Hey girl, hey. I’m back in town and will be haunting the space again soon. Happy to show you everything if we can find a time to connect!
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Welcome back Sarah! I hope the shoot went well for you
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For sure Sarah! I just checked out Tandy today and had some fun lasering some stuff I ended up deciding it’ll be easier to hand sew for now. I definitely wanna pick your brain though at some point
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Cool. I can even demo how to use the Juki to make the holes for hand-sewing if you’re using upholstery. But it diamond chisels give a nicer finish for waxed thread. Do you know your saddle stitch? Super simple if not, and YouTube has lots of good videos, but also happy to demo.
Sarah, so glad to hear you’re back! Any chance you’re coming to the Wednesday night get together (May 3). Details in Ashley’s post.
I left a leather-specific needle there for folks to try. It’s got a diamond-shaped point that cuts through 10oz leather like butter. I tried going back and threading it myself, but I am still so much of a noob I couldn’t do it. I would like to spend more time sewing on the Juki with others around. Let me know when you’ll be there next! I have heavy thread also.
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