The LENA NÄHMASCHINE, also known as the LENA JUNIOR Sewing Machine, is a child-friendly sewing machine designed for basic sewing tasks. It is marketed under the "Sew Nice" brand, indicating its focus on ease of use and enjoyment for young users.
Function Description:
The LENA JUNIOR Sewing Machine allows users to perform simple sewing operations. It is equipped with a presser foot, a needle, and a bobbin system to create stitches. The machine can be operated using either a handwheel or a foot pedal, offering flexibility in control. It is designed to handle lighter fabrics, making it suitable for beginner projects. The primary function is to join two pieces of fabric together with a seam.
Important Technical Specifications:
The machine features a compact and lightweight design, making it portable and easy for children to handle. It operates with a presser foot (8), a needle, and a bobbin (2) for thread management. The tension dial (9) allows for adjustment of thread tension, which is crucial for forming proper stitches. Power is supplied via batteries, and it includes an ON/OFF switch (4) for operation. The handwheel (3) provides manual control over the needle movement, while the foot pedal (5) offers hands-free operation. The machine also has a light (11) to illuminate the sewing area.
Usage Features:
- Power On/Off: The machine is turned on and off using the ON/OFF switch (4).
- Lifting the Presser Foot: The presser foot (8) can be lifted using the presser foot lifter (9) to place or remove fabric.
- Threading: The machine requires careful threading of both the upper thread and the bobbin thread. The upper thread passes through the tension dial (9), thread guides, and the needle eye. The bobbin is placed in a compartment, and its thread is brought up through the needle plate.
- Stitch Formation: Stitches are formed by the interplay of the upper thread and the bobbin thread. The needle (10) carries the upper thread through the fabric, where it catches the bobbin thread to create a lockstitch.
- Operation Modes: Users can operate the machine by turning the handwheel (3) counter-clockwise for a few stitches or by pressing the foot pedal (5) for continuous sewing.
- Fabric Feeding: During sewing, fabric should be gently guided by hand to ensure straight and even stitches.
- Tension Adjustment: The tension dial (9) allows users to adjust the tightness or looseness of the stitches. If stitches are too tight, the tension should be reduced by turning the dial counter-clockwise. If stitches are too loose, the tension should be increased by turning the dial clockwise.
- Fabric Compatibility: The machine is best suited for lighter fabrics. Using overly thick materials may cause the machine to jam or result in poor stitch quality.
- Finishing Stitches: To prevent stitches from unraveling, it is recommended to finish a seam by creating a secure lockstitch or by tying off the threads.
Maintenance Features:
- Battery Replacement: The machine is battery-operated, and batteries need to be replaced when they are dead or low on power. Correct polarity (+/-) must be observed during replacement.
- Cleaning: The machine should be cleaned with a dry cloth. It is important not to use liquid cleaners.
- Troubleshooting:
- Machine not operating: Check if the ON/OFF switch is on and if the batteries are correctly inserted and charged.
- Missing or irregular stitches: Adjust the thread tension using the tension dial (9). Ensure the thread is correctly routed through all guides and the protective cover. Verify that the presser foot (8) is lowered onto the fabric. Use lighter fabrics if the current material is too thick. Re-thread the machine if threading is incorrect.
- Stitches unraveling: Ensure stitches are securely finished at the end of a seam.
- Machine jams: If the machine jams, it often indicates that thread is caught in the lower part of the machine. To resolve this, pull a length of thread through the tension dial (9) to release tension on the needle (10), and turn the handwheel (3) counter-clockwise to free the fabric or thread.
- Disassembly: The manual explicitly states not to disassemble the machine or any of its internal parts, as there are no user-serviceable components inside. Any repairs or internal issues should be handled by a professional, though the manual implies that the machine is not designed for extensive repairs.
The LENA JUNIOR Sewing Machine is a basic, entry-level device, ideal for children to learn the fundamentals of sewing in a safe and accessible manner. Its simple design and clear instructions aim to provide an enjoyable and educational experience.