Everything You Need to Know About Emdeko JA21 Sewing Machine
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Emdeko JA21 was my very first sewing machine. When this article was first published (2019), there wasn’t any information online about the model. Therefore, I decided to share my knowledge in hopes it would help someone. Note: At the end of this article, there is a parts list for Emdeko JA21.
Emdeko JA21 was made by Toyota in the early 1960’s. As far as I know, there are 3 different version of the Ja21.
Base Model: no movable needle positions and no design cam port. Unknown serial #
Mid-range: design cam port but no movable needle position. Serial # E-18004
Premium version: includes movable needle positions and a design cam port. (Note: This is the machine featured in this article.) Serial # NH-93957
The engine was made to purr.
With a 1.3amp motor, JA21 is robust and able to sew thru just about anything. I’ve sewn thru several layers of denim, quilting, and even layers of fleece. After sewing on the machine for about a year, however, the motor became weak because it just wouldn’t push thru thick layers anymore.
Loss of motor power can mean you need new carbon brushes, motor cleaning, or a new motor.
I opted for a new motor as the old one was already over 50. I didn’t go for an Alphasew motor. As one blogger stated, ” Putting an Alphasew motor in a classic sewing machine is like putting a Honda Prius motor in a Ferrari.” Instead of buying an Alphasew motor, I opted for an AC/DC motor found in a shop on Ebay. Here is a link to the motor. The new motor bracket was too large. I could have purchased another bracket for under $5. However, I decided to cut the included motor bracket down to size and add another screw hole for the perfect fit.
Emdeko JA21 motor is attached to a 13-inch belt.
When my purchased my machine, it was worn and I had to order another. I purchased a the 13 3/4 motor belt
It takes a standard tire.
The sewing machine takes a standard classic sewing machine tire for the bobbin winder. I purchased this standard singer tire from an online seller, but you can pick one up from Hobby Lobby or any other craft store that sells sewing supplies.
It’s a high shank machine with a max stitch width of 4mm.
Presser feet are easy to come by because Emdeko is a standard high-shank machine. I have purchased a zipper foot, invisible zipper foot 
Since the needle plate is off to the side, you cannot sew with twin needles on this puppy.
I know. It’s a bummer because there are two spool pins on top of the machine, one of which is pretty much useless without the ability to use a twin needle. On the bright side, Zig Zag Needle Plate , Slide Plate and Thumb Screw are readily available. I had to purchase both as they were missing from the machine upon purchase. The needle plate and screw were not the only things missing because the design cams were missing too.
Design cams aren’t easy to find, but don’t get upset if you never find them.
I searched Ebay for a year before finding a full set of design cams. Once the design cams arrived, they were a real disappointment because I was never able to create the same patterns found inside the original manual. Instead, I just got ugly variations of a zigzag stitch. Side by side comparisons (book illustrations vs actual stitches from this sewing machine) can be found inside:
Emdeko JA21: The Aftermarket Manual (pdf)
By the way…
The manual isn’t easy to find.
It isn’t worth the time or money for shops to purchase manual copyrights to sewing machines very few people own. For this reason, it is difficult to find an Emdeko JA21 manual. I’ve bypassed potential copyright issues and created an updated manual (see purchase links below).
In the name of safety, don’t use a vintage foot pedal unless you’ve replaced the wiring.
My machine came with a knee control foot pedal, which was attached to an old table. The foot pedal was missing the bottom cover and had no speed control at all. A few weeks after buying the sewing machine off Craigslist, the foot pedal caught fire. *I repaired the foot pedal using a method, which I covered in another blog.
Once the foot pedal repair was done, it worked beautifully. The speed control, however, was still not 100% to my liking. Therefore, I replaced it with a (light and motor block) carbon pile foot pedal
When I put my foot down on the pedal, the sewing machine needle didn’t move. Instead, the motor made a buzzing sound. I had to press the foot pedal and turn the hand wheel to get the machine started. Once in motion, the carbon pile foot pedal worked. In the comments section of Amazon, I found a few customers who also had the same issue with Alphasew carbon pile foot pedal.
Speed control is only wonderful when you upgrade to an electronic foot pedal
.
.I lived with the Alphasew carbon pile foot pedal until it was time to upgrade motors. Once I replaced the motor on my sewing machine, I also replaced the foot pedal with an electronic one. The electronic sewing machine foot pedal allowed Emdeko JA21 to sew with much more precision.
Among other bright things, Emdeko JA21 has some cool features.
It features:
- left, middle, and right needle positions
- includes three different feet dog positions for sewing thru different thicknesses of fabric
- comes with 21 design cams for sewing decorative stitches.
Emdeko JA21 is quite hefty weighing in at 33 pounds.
Overall, I think Emdeko JA21 is a great machine for quilting.
I say this because Emdeko Ja21 has a beautiful stitch and a wide throat space for larger projects. I wouldn’t, however, recommend this sewing machine to any modern-day sewing enthusiasts who makes garments because it has:
1) very sensitive thread tension. You’ll easily spend 15 minutes changing tension to work with rayon challis after you’ve used quilting cotton for making bias binding.
2) a complicated buttonhole unlike any 4-step buttonhole I’ve ever used. It’s more like a 12-step buttonhole.
I’ve listed all of my Emdeko JA21 purchases below. Perhaps this list will make it much easier for you to find the parts you need.
Replacement Parts List (with clickable links)
Universal sewing machine motor
13-3/4 V shaped sewing machine belt
Zig Zag Needle Plate | Slide Plate
Presser Feet: Zig Zag | Straight Stitch |Overcast | Invisible zipper |Blind hem |Darning
Emdeko JA21: The Aftermarket Manual (pdf)
Originally posted February 2019 & Last Updated May 2024
Other Helpful Articles:
3 of the Best Vintage Sewing Machines to Buy Today
124 Comments
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I have a Good Housekeeping model. JA21-195-TW. My model does not look like the pics posted above. I’m lookinv for any assistance. Thank you in advance.
I cannot tell much without a photo. When I do a search for Good housekeeper JA21-195-TW, I find Gimbel ja21-195-TW. Is this similar to your machine? https://sewing.patternreview.com/SewingDiscussions/topic/107417. Wish I could be of further assistance! Hope this helps.
I have one of these machines for over 40 years. All the accessories came with it and it was like brand new. I still use it and have only replaced the foot pedal. It is no longer my primary machine but is a handy back-up.
Awesome!
Where would I find the number of my Emdeko sewing machine
There should be a silver badge on the underside of your sewing machine. If you don’t find a silver badge, look for a number scratched in the underside of your machine.
This is the exact sewing machine my dad bought for me in 1969. I was 14 and I still have it the case finally tore up but it has been good I loved it especially because daddy got it for me.
You have one awesome dad to have bought this for you! Emdeko is one of my favorites.
I’m looking for a manual does anyone know where I can find one for free
I have an Emdeko NH-63282. Where can I download a user manual?
I am not sure where you can find a manual for this one. I am currently doing my research to find out how to get copyrights user manuals. Emdeko is no-longer in business. Therefore, it is super hard to find their manuals or even someone with the rights to sell them. If I were to start selling manuals like this, would that be something you would be interested in?
I would love to buy a copy please.emdeko JA21. pdf version or even jpeg pictures is ok
My needle position stays on the left hand side making it impossible to use any foot other than a zig zag. Can the needle be adjusted to center?
Yes. There is a little door on the creme colored part of the sewing machine used for design cams. Directly below this door, you should see a L M R tag with a lever below it. This lever adjust your machine to Left, Middle, or Right position. Sometimes, this lever will get stuck. To get the lever moving again, unscrew the top part of the machine and place a generous amount of Singer oil in that area. Giggle the lever back and forth, but don’t force it. Eventually, it should shift positions without a problem. Hope this helps!
Thank you. The machine was my mothers. She bought it a month before I was born. July 1962 and still running strong except the old foot pedal broke yesterday.
What a lovely keepsake! I will message you privately to find out the details on the machine. Maybe we can get it working like new again.
I don’t see anything labeled left, center or right, but I found a tab that could be moved over and tightened down that seems to work. I wish I could include a picture.
Well that didnt work
I have the exact machine it doesn’t work I mean the motor runs great can’t get it to sew. Thanks for your information
What happens when you try to sew? Do you not get enough piercing power when you try to sew thru fabric? Or, is there no electricity to the machine?
I borrowed my sister’s Emdeko sewing machine to do a last minute craft project. It won’t sew now unless I manually move the hand wheel. If I press on the foot pedal the motor buzzes as you mentioned earlier and it won’t sew. I thought maybe it was a belt problem since when I used the hand wheel alone it was difficult to move. You still think it is the foot pedal?
If your belt was broken, turning the hand wheel wouldn’t cause anything to happen with the sewing machine. Your hand wheel is difficult to move because the sewing machine needs real good oiling. Do avoid sewing on a machine when it is seized up like this because it can cause it to break. *BTW Emdeko should be oiled at least every two weeks. Yes, if your motor buzzes and nothing happens, the foot pedal does need to be replaced. I would just suggest getting the machine serviced as well as it sounds like the machine hasn’t had regular maintenance.
where can I find a printable manual?
Sorry, the link was not working. Here is another copy of the link https://gum.co/FOZxK.
I need a manual and bobbins
I paid 20 for a J-A21 Sr #38212
I need some help
Your sewing machine is almost identical to the one I reviewed. However, it is a earlier model that does not have the left, right, and middle needle adjustments. If I am thinking correctly, yours also does not take design cams. Your machine still does take a class 15 bobbin case and the class 15 metal bobbins. You won’t be able to find a manual unless you find it somewhere on Ebay. My suggestion would be to get a manual closest to your machine as it will help you to discover the basic functions (like threading the machine) without going crazy. Happy sewing!
what kind of cabinet does this machine fit into?
It fits into a standard Singer cabinet.
Purchased this machine for 100.00 in early 80’s with all the cams. Previous owner took excellent care. I had a knee pedal put in as well as a foot pedal. It sees beautifully and I LOVE IT. Only machine I have found with all metal parts…smooth sewing. So happy to have found a manual as my original has disintegrated from use.
I am glad you were able to get the manual 🙂 Emdeko really is an under rated sewing machine. The stitch quality is beautiful. You are very lucky to have one!
Thank heavens…. a place to find information(and manual) for this wonder piece a machinery!
I was given this machine in 1964 and have loved and used it a lot ever since! I sewed clothes for myself and kids, many drapes, curtains, hundreds of quilts, upholstered couches and recliners, etc. I have all accessories and the manual. I’ve never had it serviced, but oil it and blow out the ‘dust’a lot! My tension dial is now giving me trouble. I finally took it out and cleaned it. It now will not stay firmly in its place. Is that a screw for it in the silver ‘tension guide above the screw that holds the tension on?
Is the dial itself not staying on a specific number? Or, is the dial not staying attached to your machine? If the dial is not staying on a specific number, it could be you need to replace the thread check spring. It’s an an easy fix under $5 to get a new spring. If you’ve got the other problem with dial not staying attached to the machine: 1) Open the door (where the light bulb is) 2) Look to your right by the thread guide and find the tiny hole. Down inside the hole is a small screw keeping the dial attached to the machine. You really need a long screw driver to tighten up the screw enough that the dial will stay in place.Hope this helps! Thanks for sharing about your lovely sewing machine 😉
I was reading about Emdeko machines when I stumbled on your blog. I have had my mom’s machine for years. Im pretty sure it has all of the accessories, tools, cover/tote, an even a instruction poster. Now that I’m almost 60 I’ve been trying to learn how to use it. (Sew) I could go on an on but I’ll stop at…Your article is wonderful! Maybe one day I’ll know what you were talking about.
I don’t think it will take you very long to discover how lovely your mothers machine is 🙂 Thanks for the comment!
The Emdeko really is an underrated machine-I love mine-bought it new in 1969 & have sewn many different fabrics with it-I would buy another one as back up if I could find one!!
Once or twice per year, I run into one for sale. I saw one for sale at my local thread store and later found one on Craigslist. Your right! Emdeko is really underrated 🙂
We were recently given an Emdeko machine and it sews beautifully! I also have 2 Singers that I frequently use. The model for the Emdeko is JA19 and I don’t have a manual. Can you direct me to information on this machine? Thanks!
Does your sewing machine look just like mine minus the LRM needle position lever and the design cam lid? If so, JA19 is an earlier model with less features on it. It would mean JA19 has: 1) a straight and zigzag without the design cams.2)No way to move the needle position aside from just adjusting the stitch width. If my assessment is correct, my JA21 manual will suit you just fine. You’ll just skip over the part about the design cams and skip to part about needle position. Happy sewing 🙂
I learned to sew on this machine, and sadly, inherited when my mom passed. The thing is almost 60 years old and sews better than my high end computerized Elna!
I am sorry to hear about your mother. The machine is wonderful indeed 🙂
I have an older model Endeko, given to me by a friend. It’s my backup all metal Vintage Machine. Had it in my basement until my other machine broke it’s check spring. Trapsed down the basement for the Endeko…it was a hot mess. After two hours of cleaning and oiling I plugged it in and it’s running like a dream. Love my Vintage Metal Machines!
Yes, there is nothing like a vintage sewing machine.
i just got the Emdeko ja21 from a friend. the machine when plugged works beautifully. My question is is there an off on button. I have searched and can’t find one.
Domestic vintage sewing machines do not have on/off buttons. On most vintage machines, your foot pedal and light both plug into a block. Then, you plug the block directly into the wall. Please remember to ALWAYS unplug your vintage sewing machine after use because it is not grounded. BTW congrats on the new machine 🙂
This weekend I was lucky enough to buy an Emdeko zig zag sewing machine and table both in fantastic condition, although it did not come with the cams, (which I really want now) it did have an original manual. I have scanned that as a pdf as will gladly share it. Does this use modern flatback needles that I can find or special older totally round ones?
Welcome to the Emdeko family 🙂 Yes, the sewing machine uses modern flat back needles. Flat side faces tightening screw. It’s great you were able to get the manual. I have the original manual too.Happy sewing!
I also inherited my mom’s Emdeko zig zag machine. It is in very bad shape. I have the owner’ manual and most of the cams. The built in case is awful. Any ideas or suggestions? I need a bobbin case, new belt, motor (probably), and foot pedal. I am still deciding if I will restore it. I did learn to sew on it and I see nearly every day. I just don’t know if it’s worth the it. Hmm
Yes, it is worth getting Emdeko back into great shape. Bobbin Case $10, Motor Belt $8.50, Motor $50, Foot pedal $30. I would also replace the upper tension spring and bobbin tire. Altogether, we are talking about $130 to get your machine back into top shape. You won’t be able to buy another sewing machine of this quality for $130! A new machine would likely cost you $1500. *Also, problems with tension and other minor issues are easily fixed at home by watching simple Youtube videos. You won’t be sorry because the projects you will be able to complete will allow Emdeko to pay for itself many times over 🙂
I recently bought the Emdeko for my daughter as she wants to sew. It looks to be in good condition but I haven’t tried it yet as I need the manual. It looks a lot like my 1970’s signature portable that I still sew on today. Can you help me get a pedi of manual?
Awesome! Your daughter is really going to have a great time with this sewing machine. I carry an aftermarket manual. The manual has all information found inside the original manual, updated photographs, plus more.
I just bought this one at a yard sale for 20 dollars. Sews beautifully but not very fast. Does it need a new belt or motor? The machine looks brand new, though.
Every single time I pick up a yard sale or used sewing machine, I replace the motor belt (as they do crack with age) and check to see if the motor brushes are worn. Motor brushes are like $5 and greatly improve the performance of the motor. Since the machine is not going fast, I would check to see if the foot control is working properly. You can find a brand new foot control for $20 or view my foot control tutorial to fix your existing one. Great find!!!
I was given and older model Emdeko that doesn’t have the LMR lever for needle placement. It is stuck on the left side unless you change it to zigzag. Is there any way that you know of to change the needle position to the middle. I’ve removed the top of the machine and can’t see a way to do it. By the way the machine only needs cleaning and oiling that I can see. It runs great!
Wow! You were given an early Emdeko 🙂 Unfortunately, your machine does not have LRM needle positions. Instead, you’ll have to move the fabric over and use washie tape or a quilting guide to make stitches in the right place. Don’t feel bad! I used to have a Singer 66. It did not have LRM needle positions either. It takes a long time to get used to using a machine without adjustable needle positions. But, once you do get used to it, you’ll love the machine. Happy sewing!
I just pulled out my moms old Emdeko sewing machine. Planning on teaching myself to sew its in immaculate condition, but I need an owner manual to learn how to bob and thread it. Where or how can I get a manual ?..
Your mom had great taste! I have an aftermarket manual available at a reasonable price. It is available on Gumroad via the links provided in the article. You currently have to sign into Gumroad via facebook,twitter, or create an account. I apologize for the hoops to jump thru to download. But, that is getting resolved soon. If you need anymore help, feel free to send me a message via the contact page. ~Stay Blessed
I have just bought my second Emdeko. First one is older zigzag. It didn’t have cams or manual. This newest one is J A 21. It had all cams, attachments, and manual. It looks new, but after oiling it and adjustments it sews OK. Main issue right now is thged bobbin winder. I had to push down on it to get it to wind? I’m trying to figure out what I need to order at this time. Any suggestions about the bobbin winder?
I had this issue with one other vintage sewing machines too. My best advice is to find a thicker bobbin winding tire or go the hardware store and pick up a grommets kit. Try different rubber grommets until you find one that is thick enough to close the gap. The channel in the middle of your rubber grommet won’t hurt anything 😉
I have one I bought in 1964 and it still works like a charm. I do need to get a manual for it. Can’t find one. Where do I get a copy of the one you wrote? Thanks
Select the link within the blog article. It will take you to a Gumroad page. Select I want this. It will prompt you to enter payment info. Hope this helps!
Looking to put a 50mm bias quilting foot and attachment to my mom’s old machine have looked and even bought one that looked right lol won’t work any help on locating one would be great thanks
Type “High shank adjustable bias binder” into Amazon. Long as it is compatible with Singer sewing machines, you are good to go. If you cannot find a 50mm this way, order a high shank snap on adapter and a snap on 50mm quilting foot.
Found a used JA21 without cams, do I need them to sew Zig Zag?
No, you won’t need cams to sew zigzag. Happy sewing!
Have an older emdeko machine it has LMR my problem is that I thread it but it’s busting the top threader and it nested too on my material so I’m threading it wrong I’m following the manual the correct way to thread it help anybody as had the same problem
1) Use a damp microfiber cloth to clean between the disks on your upper threader. 2)Vaccum underneath the needle plate 3) Check the bobbin to make sure it isn’t damaged 3) Change your needle to a fresh one 4) Lower your presser foot and set the top thread tension to four 5) Hold the bobbin thread and do a YOYO test. If the bobbin drops to the ground with zero resistance, your screw needs to be tightened. If the bobbin thread doesn’t move, it needs to be loosened.6)Try sewing again. When upper tension is too tight or bobbin is too loose, thread lays flat on top of the material. When thread lays flat on bottom, the opposite is true. If you are unable to successfully fix this on your own, you need a new bobbin case or you’ve got a timing issue.
My emdeko sewing machine does nit have the needle position lever at the front center top . My needle is postioned to the left of center. How do I center the needle? I can send you pics, plese hepl if you can 🙂
Sorry about previous post, just seen other reply about my machine
I have found a 1963 best built sewing machine that is built in a cabinet. The numbers on this it J-A21-195-TW and J-A21. As I typed this information into the search bar this sight popped up. I don’t know nothing about sewing machines but if you could give me some information on where to look I would be very appreciative. Thank you for your time.
Would this machine happen to be a Gimble? The truth is, many of these vintage Japanese sewing machines are knock offs of Singer sewing machines. If you can find a Singer sewing machine that looks similar to the one you have, you can simply use the manual from it to learn about your machine. Id need to see a photo to give you more info than that. I hope this helps.
I have an EMdeko zig zag and I love it! It was given to me by a friend of my father’s 30 years ago and I just looked at it for the 3rd time a few days ago. This website got me kickstarted. I dove right in to refurbishing it and I love it!!
Awesome!
You were a big help last year when my tension was acting up. Lately, my machine will not sew slowly, but keeps speeding up. If I let up on the control, it stops. How can I get the control to sew more slowly, at an even speed?
No response on the speed control of my machine?
JA21 is not the model number, it’s a manufacturer code. It was not built by Toyota it was most likely built by Soryu.
Thanks for this info. I’ve heard a lot mixed information. Therefore, I was only able to base my post off of what I heard from a person who used to be an Emdeko salesman. Thanks for checking out the blog! 🙂
Hello ,
I recently bought a Emdeko at the thrift shop for $ 5.00 very good find, and in running condition. However is in need of some TLC and some replacement parts . bobbin cover plate, slide plate and needle clamp. I am at a loss as to what to look for as far as parts being compatible with this lovely machine .Any help will be appreciate. By the way my machine has a JC28 on it .
Thank you
JC28 is identical to my JA21 except it doesn’t take design cams and has a fixed needle position oriented to the left. Am I correct? If so, your machine takes the same parts mine does. The only difference is the bobbin cover plate and slide plate. I’d try the sewing parts online for a needle plate that has the same amount of feed dog holes as yours. I wish I could be of better assistance, but a little hard without a photo. Happy sewing! Hopefully, I’m not thinking about the wrong model machine.
We have an Emdeko machine we got new in 1969, and still have all the parts and manuals.
The metal tag on the bottom says it’s model “NH 69744”.
Others say they have model JC28 or JA21.
How can I determine what model I have?
If our manual will work for you, I can scan it into a PDF and email to whoever wants it.
Most Emdeko machines have a model engraved directly into the machine. It’s to the left of the metal tag. Yes, you are welcomed to can the manual into PDF and send to anyone. I’m pretty sure anyone would be grateful to get a manual if they were unable to find a manual for their machine.
I have a late ’60s era Emdeko. I’m having some trouble where my top thread is not looping all the way around the bobbin casing every time. Any suggestions for addressing this? I’ve not had any luck yet with YouTube searches. The hook is catching it just fine, but then the thread travels to about the 6 o’clock position and retreats back the way it came.
If I had this sewing machine in front of me, I could likely fix it right away. But, it is very hard to give you a definitive answer without being able to see the machine. It sounds like you have a hook timing issue. Since industrial sewing machines are very similar to the Emdeko, you may have some luck with these two videos: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EL3hAptse48 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ntLjzMfdtjY
I just got mine and though the motor runs I can’t make it stitch, if it occasionally makes a stitch the next several are just skipped? Not sure if it’s the tension or what? I did put in a new needle. Question what is the correct way to insert the needle, where is the flat side supposed to be?
The flat side of your needle should be facing the thumb screw. Also, make sure you’ve followed the threading directions inside the manual. If it still doesn’t work, you’ve got a timing problem. There are many videos on Youtube about how to fix timing. You’ll want to find one of the videos with a machine with the needle plate to the side like yours. Some of the industrial Juki and Sailrite videos on timing are very helpful.
Ya that might be a problem since I don’t have the manual?? How difficult is it to reset the timing?
I just found a machine today. It was in perfect condition (almost new). Although I did have to put half a can of oil in it. It’s sewing perfect. Is there an off switch? I could only find the light switch.
This machine is wonderful and you are very blessed to have found it! There is no off switch on very vintage sewing machines. Please, make sure you unplug it after use because it is not grounded. Thanks for visiting the blog!
Hi,
I have an Emdeko model machine. When the cords are plugged in, the machine light turns on but no motor. When I switch the cords plugins with the motor and the eletricty cord, the machine motor goes crazy! There is no stopping until I unplug the cords and switch back. Any ideas?? I got the machine serviced over a year ago and haven’t used it. I’m not sure the repair shop fixed it. Hmmm.
It sounds like you’ve got a problem with your carbon pile foot pedal (with age, they do malfunction). Replace the foot pedal with one of the electric light/motor block foot pedals off Amazon or some other online seller. This should fix the problem. Thanks for visiting the blog.
I was wondering why you said “Since the needle plate is off to the side, you cannot sew with twin needles on this puppy. ” If you can move the needle position and can zigzag I do not understand why you couldn’t use a twin needle. As with most twin needle sewing, you could not zigzag very wide. I do know that there are some vintage machines that have more discs in the tension assembly, so that one puts thread between separate discs, but I have another machine that there is only one set of discs, that can sew with a twin needle.
In sewing machines with side oriented needle plates, the needle eye faces (east, west). Twin needles, however, have forward facing needle eyes. So, they won’t work in a sewing machine with a side oriented needle plate. I hope this helps! Thanks for visiting the blog.
I have this machine!! My mother in-law gave it to me when she was about to pitch she had only used it a handful if times. I have used it countless times. I have the manual and all the cams in the plastic case they came in. It has been a great machine. I kind of retired it when it quit winding bobbins and bought my first new singer. It does not even come close to the old machine.
Awesome. I am glad you have enjoyed the Emdeko JA21. It is indeed a good sewing machine. Thanks for visiting the blog.
I have this machine. It was my mom’s. It is in a cabinet. I accidentally pulled the cord out of the plug that is on the inside of the cabinet. Any ideas on how to fix it? I have a picture. Please help. I can’t get rid of this machine.
There are two cords (one light blub & one motor) attached to a two plug power block. This power block is usually screwed into the inside of the cabinet. If you didn’t break of the cord inside of the machine, you can simply find the block and plug the cord back in. If you did break off the cord inside of your machine, it is still a simple fix. Just get a standard cord from the hardware store and re-wire your light blub. Or, if its the motor, you’ll add the new cord onto the old one and secure it with some electrical tape. There is a tutorial for this here http://thimblebook.com/index.php/2018/01/15/sewing-machine-repair-electrical-cords/
Has anyone successfully adjusted the hook timing on an Emdeko machine? I think that may be my problem but can’t seem to adjust it.
I found the timing adjustment video from Sailrite to help with the Emdeko. Although the Sailrite is a walking foot, the mechanics look very similar. I hope this helps https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vt0H8OfxYkU
Did you press the zigzag lock and release lever after you put the cam in? If you do not do that it will not make the decorative cam stitches.
I have the exact same model that you have, and it is in great shape. However, recently, for some unexplained reason, the top of the upper thread guy just snapped off. I’m looking for another one, but I’ve had no luck. Any ideas would be greatly appreciated!
It is best to find someone who knows how to weld. They can weld the 2 pieces back together, then grind it down smooth. I am blessed enough to have 2 welders/fabricators in my family. However, if you aren’t able to find someone to weld the pieces back together, the next best option is to use a product like Loctite Epoxy Weld Bonding Compound to glue to pieces back together. The glue doesn’t work as well but it should get the job done.
Will it sew zig zag without a cam?
I just obtained this machine and the stitch width lever does not move.
Yes, it sews zigzag without cams. You will have to do extra to get that stitch width lever moving again. Just using sewing machine oil might not get it. You may have to use Tri flow and let it sit overnight. Also, you might need some synthetic grease to get the gears rolling smoothly again. Once you get the machine together, you are going to love it. Welcome to the Emdeko club 🙂
Are you sure that all of the cam mechanism is completely free and no binding? As I’m sure you’re aware very old oil can become like varnish and impede free movement of the parts.
Just a thought. 🤞
When I got the machine, the entire thing was covered in a thick layer of tobacco tar. So, the entire machine was taken apart and meticulously cleaned. I don’t think there is anything binding. But, it very well could be. I’ll take a look. Thanks for the suggestion.
I gave an older mid 60’s capri sewing machine. numbers on it are J-A21-195-TW. my needle thread keeps getting tangled in the bobbin when the needle goes down. Any ideas?
You definitely have a bobbin tension problem. Check out the article here http://thimblebook.com/index.php/2018/07/30/thread-loops-under-fabric/. Please, follow all of the steps in the article and see if one of these issues can be the cause for your problem. I hope it helps.
I bought a cabinet and an emdeko came with it serial number NH-87945.
The guy who had it was liquidating his aunt’s estate. The throat and side plates were there but not screwed in. The screws were
My question is the side plate Slide in from the left? If so, it’s not and i can loosen the screws on the bottom.
Or does it set in before the throat plate?
I want to test it before i doing a through Maintenace on it. It looks like an amazing machine and is a piece of mechanical art!
I am not sure if I fully understand your question. On my Emdeko the slide plate slides in from the left. It is always easier to screw in the throat plate before adding int he slide plate. Yes, Emdeko is a wonderful machine.Thanks for checking out the blog!
Thank you so much for posting this! I had purchased this machine at a Goodwill on a whim. Because of your manual, I was able to get her going and now feel good about replacing some of her parts. My regular machine is a 1922 Singer 128-14 handcrank, but it’s nice to know that I’ll have this zigzag machine too. It’s funny, I’ve owned a Designer Ruby and a Bernette B77, but it’s really these vintage machines that give me the best results. Thanks again!
Thanks for checking out the blog.
I would like to know how old my sewing machine is and thank you for the commentary.
Thanks
I have a model JA 21 NH-77958 Emdeko, same the model at the top of the page. I have been an industrial sewing mechanic for 45 yrs, I have 12 various machines from the Brother SE 1900 to my 1918 treadle machine. My favorite s are the Atlas Precision and my Emdeko JA 21 which in pristine condition.
Awesome 🙂
I found this site by accident and was shocked that the EMDEKO name is still around. A little history: I sold EMDEKO products in the mid 60s. EMDEKO stands for the owners names. Eddie, Mike, David, Easy, Kieth & Owen. The company was based in Salt Lake City, UT and was sold on a direct sales basis by appointment. The potential buyer would come to our office, set through a presentation then would be allowed to pick out and buy any 3 of the products. I can’t remember the price, but the customer would have to agree to a $.15 cent down payment and agree to write a letter about how they liked the products. Old fashioned direct sales. The system worked and a lot of units were sold.
Wow. Thank you so much for commenting. I definitely would have written a good review because I love my Emdeko and plan on passing it down someday. This is amazing information to learn.
I inherited the Emdeko JA21 (model NH-140426) sewing machine. The thread take up spring is bent & out of shape. I’ve searched the web, hobby shops, fabric stores, etc., for a replacement with no luck. Unfortunately, there are no sewing repair shops in my area.
Do you have suggestions of an equivalent vintage sewing machine (Singer, Brother, Kenmore etc.), thread take up spring that I may use in the Emdeko JA21 machine?
Thank you for you time.
Patty
It is impossible to get a JA21 thread take up spring. But, you can always buy a new Singer or Brother thread take up spring from eBay. If it doesn’t fit exactly right, you can bend it with a pair of needle nose pliers to get it to fit just right.
My Emdeko show JA21 model number on it but it doesn’t look like the one pictured. I found another site that showed mine but with a JA270 model number. How do I know which one I have and how can I find out the age of it? I only received on foot with it so I am really looking to see if any high foot will work with it.
From my understanding, there are 3 different Emdeko models. One of the older models doesn’t have movable needle positions. High shank presser feet work with the machine. As far as the age is concerned, it is very hard to pinpoint an exact date. However, I did run across someone who sold the Emdeko back in the 1960’s. I hope this helps.
From what I understand, there are 3 different models of the Emdeko JA. One of the models doesn’t have adjustable needle positions. Also, they do take standard high shank presser feet. Dates are very hard to find. One seller of these machines said they were made in the early 1950’s. But, that is as much as I know.
Is there a way to adjust the needle placement on the Emdeko JA21. I ordered the straight stitch foot that is recommended above but the needle hits on the left side of the foot.
There are 3 different versions of the Emdeko (I know of). One of them doesn’t have adjustable needle positions and a needle that sits off to one side. It sounds like you have the non moveable needle version.