Janome Sewing Machine Skipping Stitches

What Does This Error Mean?

Skipped stitches on a Janome are almost always caused by a dull or bent needle, or the needle not being pushed up all the way into the clamp. Replace the needle first — it costs nothing and fixes the problem most of the time. Also confirm the needle is inserted flat-side to the back.

Affected Models

Janome HD3000
Janome MC9900
Janome 6700P
Janome Skyline S5
Most Janome models

Common Causes

Needle bent, blunt, or damaged
Needle not fully inserted — flat side must face the back
Wrong needle type for the fabric
Upper thread not threaded correctly through the tension discs
Bobbin thread tension too loose
Machine needs timing adjustment after needle breakage

How to Fix It

Replace the needle with a new one.

A needle that has hit a pin or been used for more than 8 hours of sewing is often the culprit. Insert the new needle with the flat side facing the back and push it up as far as it will go.
Re-thread the upper thread completely.

Lift the presser foot before threading — this opens the tension discs. Follow the numbered thread guides in order and ensure the thread seats inside each guide.
Match the needle type to the fabric.

Use a ballpoint needle for knit fabrics, a sharp needle for wovens, and a stretch needle for lycra. Using the wrong needle type causes skipped stitches on specific fabrics.
Check the needle is the correct size for the thread.

Heavy thread through a fine needle causes skipping. Size 14 (90) needles suit most medium-weight fabrics. Use size 16 (100) or 18 (110) for heavy denim or upholstery.
Clean lint from the bobbin area and re-insert the bobbin.

Remove the bobbin and bobbin case, clear lint with a soft brush, and re-insert the bobbin so the thread unwinds in the correct direction (usually anti-clockwise on Janome machines).

When to Call a Professional

If the machine skips on every stitch even with a new needle and correct threading, the hook timing may be off. Take the machine to a Janome dealer for a timing adjustment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my Janome skip stitches only on stretchy fabric?

Skipping on stretch fabric means you need a ballpoint or stretch needle. A regular sharp needle can deflect sideways on knit fabric instead of piercing it cleanly, causing the hook to miss the thread loop.

How often should I change the needle on my Janome?

Janome recommends changing the needle every 8 hours of sewing, when starting a new project, or any time it hits a pin. A bent needle often causes skipping before you can see the damage.