Janome Four-DLB Serger Review
Pros
- User Friendly: For a manual machine, the Janome Four-DLB is relatively easy to thread and operate.
- Lay-in Tension Dials: This feature makes adjusting thread tensions easier.
- Quiet Operation: For a lightweight serger, there’s very little noise or vibration when in use.
Cons
- Limited Power: This lightweight model does not handle heavier fabrics or multiple layers well.
- Limited Work Area: The area to the right of the needles is very small, which can affect control.
Where to Find the Best Value
| Janome Four-DLB |
|---|
|
Review
For a basic compact serger, the Janome Four-DLB is a well-made, efficient machine. This serger might not include any of the bells and whistles of other machines in the Janome line, but it produces clean, even stitches and is not overly frustrating to thread. The color-coded guide inside the looper cover and informative owner’s manual are clear and concise.
Stitch Options
In addition to regular and wide 3- and 4-thread overlock stitches, the Four-DLB offers you the options of choosing 3-thread rolled and narrow hem stitches, a flatlock stitch and a decorative picot edging stitch. Stitch length is easily adjusted between 1 mm and 4 mm.
Specifications
Speed: 1,300 stitches per minute
Threads: 3-4
Color-Coded: Yes
Light: Bulb
Weight: 14.3 lbs.
Dimensions: 15.5 inches by 14.5 inches by 12.75 inches
Product Features
Built-in Dual-Purpose Needle Plate
The innovative needle plate included on the Four-DLB allows you to quickly move from using a straight stitch into a rolled hem stitch by simply flipping a switch located conveniently on the side of the machine. By changing the setting to the ‘R’ position, you’ll hardly skip a beat as you instantly move into producing perfect rolled or narrow hem stitches.
Adjustable Differential Feed
Nothing makes serging easier than being able to adjust the differential feed. By choosing the right setting that controls the feed dogs, you have complete control over how smoothly the finest or heaviest fabrics move under the needles. This feature also helps you produce beautifully even gathers and perfectly smooth flat stitches. The feed ratio is adjustable between 0.5 mm and 2.25 mm.
Adjustable Presser Foot Pressure
This great feature works with the differential feed to give you the highest level of control over every type of fabric you’re working on. By adjusting how much pressure the presser foot applies to the fabric, you can ensure that all the stitches are tight, smooth and even. You’ll have excellent control over even the sheerest of fabrics.
Retractable Upper Knife
Being able to easily retract the upper cutting blade comes in very handy when wanting to work on a project that doesn’t require any fabric cutting. Disengaging the upper knife is as easy as turning the release knob toward you while pushing it to the right, then locking it into the ‘down’ position.
Warranties
Purchase of the Janome Four-DLB includes a 25-year warranty on mechanical parts, a 5-year warranty on electrical components and a 1-year warranty on labor.
Click Here to See Janome Four-DLB Serger Pricing, Pictures and Reviews on Amazon!
Verdict
The Janome Four-DLB is a very basic starter serger that does exactly what the company says it will. While the cost is slightly higher than sergers in the same class, it operates smoothly at its top speed of 1,300 stitches per minute. It consistently produces crisp, even stitches and cuts the fabric cleanly. The tension dials are easy to adjust, as are the differential feed and the presser foot pressure. If you’re looking for a good beginner serger, be sure to consider you’ll be investing in Janome quality with the purchase of this machine.