AcuFil Quilting Embroidery Kit – Accessory of the Month February 2026

 

AcuFil Quilting Embroidery Kit

Have you ever wanted a professional finish to your quilted project but you are not a confident free-motion quilter, then let an embroidery machine do the work using the AcuFilâ„¢ Kit. The kit comes with AcuFil software with built-in quilting and stipple designs plus an AcuFil Hoop.

Download AcuFil Quilting Embroidery Kit brochure here

Summer, set, sew!

 

Did your sewing machine get a heavy workout during the festive season? Or maybe you’re just getting started. Whether it’s finished, unfinished, or wishing it would finish itself kind of project, if you’ve got something under the needle, we want to see it!

Inspire and be inspired by the Janome community by sharing your projects with us. Tag or send us your photos with your name, location and what you’ve made or are making. We will be posting and sharing them every day on our socials!

Email us at social.media@janome.com.au or tag us on Instagram or Facebook.

New Sewing Habits for 2026

As we step into 2026, it’s the perfect time to refresh your sewing routines and introduce new habits that keep your machine running smoothly and your creativity flowing. Whether you’re sewing daily or only when inspiration strikes, these simple practices can make a big difference in your projects, efficiency, and machine longevity.

Change the needle every 8 hours of sewing
A fresh needle ensures clean, precise stitches and prevents skipped threads or fabric snags. Make it a habit to replace your needle regularly.

Clean under your needle plate regularly
Do you know what’s under your needle plate? dust, lint, and stray threads build up quickly. A quick clean with a lint brush—or a bobbin holder cleaner if included—keeps your machine running smoothly and helps prevent stitching issues. Using genuine Janome bobbins also ensures a perfect fit, even spin, and consistent tension to minimise thread jams, uneven stitches, and long-term damage.

Protect your machine with a cover when not in use
A simple cover protects your machine from dust, sunlight, and accidental knocks. It’s an easy habit that helps preserve both performance and appearance.

Service your machine through an authorised Janome dealer
Just like a car, your sewing machine benefits from professional servicing. Annual or semi-annual checks by an authorised Janome technician can catch issues early and keep your machine performing at its best.

Use the right presser foot for each project
Different techniques shine with the correct presser foot. Whether you’re quilting, inserting a zipper, or sewing tricky fabrics, the right foot can make all the difference in accuracy and finish.

Oil your machine
For a smoother, quieter sewing experience, oil your machine as recommended. Some models are self-lubricating, so always follow your manual and apply oil only where and when Janome specifies.

Test stitch on a scrap before starting
A quick test sew lets you confirm stitch length, width, tension, and thread colour before you begin. It’s a simple step that saves time and prevents frustration.

Update your machine’s firmware (if applicable)
Some Janome models receive updates from time to time that improve performance or add new features. Check occasionally to ensure you’re running the latest version.

Give your sewing space a weekly tidy
A quick 5-minute reset helps keep your workspace organised, your tools easy to find, and your creativity uncluttered.

Finish those projects!
We all have those half-done projects tucked away. This year, challenge yourself to finish them, whether it’s a nearly completed quilt or a garment waiting for buttons. There’s nothing quite as satisfying as ticking a long-awaited project off the list.

By building these habits into your sewing routine, you’ll enjoy smoother stitching, fewer hiccups, and more finished projects. A well-maintained machine and tidy workspace make all the difference – giving you more time to do what you love: creating. Here’s to an inspired 2026 in your sewing room!