I know this is totally opposite from what we have been told - but - I find that if I do one stitch before the fabric, it doesn't eat the corner of the fabric. This seems all wrong, but for some reason when it takes a stitch or two before it hits the fabric everything is fine. Go figure! Ann (Janome 11000)

I solved this problem with my Janome by using the straight stitch plate. The zig zag plate is only on the machine for special projects. Also use the leader, all the mess is on the scrap piece of fabric. And a new sharp needle.

I use the leader/ender techigue...and make a postage stamp quilt at the same time...solves my problem with fabric getting stuck and I also use up my scraps and make a quick tabletop or quilt at the same time as my planned quilt.

This is only one of the reasons why I have intensely disliked my Janome 6500. It has been famous for eating fabric at the beginning even though I changed needles and thread, invested $50 in a single hole feed dog plate, used leaders etc. My Juki does not do any of this and I love it as much as I have hated my Janome. I know many quilters who have loved their Janome but I am definitely not one of them!

Yep, I either hold the thread off to the side, not to the back, or use a leader/ender. The bonus with leader and enders is with a little forethought and planning, you end up with another quilt after a while.

I've had 3 Janomes and the feet in front are long. To make sure you don't get fabric eaten you need to make sure you have the fabric far enough under the foot to start it out and it'll work out fine. Once you find that sweet spot, you'll be golden.

I was having that problem with my class machine the other day and it just needed a good cleaning. Since I don't use it a lot, I had forgotten that little task. Ordinarily, I clean after every bobbin. Not having the thread in that little loop at the top of the needle shank can do it to.

All of the above, but maybe the feed dogs need adjusting, too? I need to take my Pfaff in for that. It was cleaned, but it still grabs the fabric if I have layers and/or turn a corner.

I also have the janome , 9000, 4000, same thing , have a juki 98e and bought all new years ago,l also had the same thing happen, was told to use a starter cloth on the janomes .I love the juki for piecing, this machine doesn't do this . So I can relate to you on this , Your not along .

Try stitching on a small piece of fabric, before your quilt fabric, be sure to hold your threads when you start stitching.