Magnifier to attach to machine
 

Hi All, I searched this site before asking, couldn't find an answer except what was specific for Bernina. I can't see to thread my machine and even the needle threader doesn't help because the little hooks are so tiny I can't see where to place the thread. I already wear glasses. Do you know of a magnifier that I can attach that will work for that specific area? Many thanks!

Long ago i got one that stuck to my machine and it helped a lot. maybe Nancy's notions, or keepsakequilting or even Annie's attic which used to be Clotilde's. My eyes were changing and I wasn't ready for bi-focals yet. Good luck.

What kind of machine do you have? I have an Ott lamp that has an adjustable magnifying glass. Maybe that would work for you.

Janome 7700. The lighting on the machine is good, just need magnification. Thanks ladies, I'll check out your suggestions.

I may look a little silly but I like the headband that has a light and swivel down magnifier glass on it. Keeps your hands free and works great when my eyes are getting tired. Get them at hobby stores or small tool shops.

i have a set of magnifiers for my horizon 8900....they're janome branded so you might check and see if they fit the 7700..it's the same basic body---they attach to the back near the needle of the machine......

Thank you gshalom - I was hoping if there was something particular for Janome, someone would know. That is exactly what I need, something near the needle.

Darn, I just read about the magnifier for the 8900 and it won't fit the 7700. Ok, off to google everyone's suggestions!

I have a magnifying glass with a big lite. Got it at Walmart about 10 years ago. Not sure if they have them now. Worth a shot to google magnifiers.

I have the same machine and wanted a magnifier fitted. The ones at my LQS were awesum, on a bendy arm held onto the harp of the machine with a clamp. Alas my machine is wayyyy too chunky, no way it would fit!! Yet to find a solution other than I've placed an LED lamp to the left of my sewing table for extra light on the needle area. Also, you'll get more light and much easier to see if you open up the side case thingy first.

The Janome optic magnifier is not available for your machine, only the models in the 8000 and up series. Magnistitch carries a magnifier that you can mount on your machine. You can see it here:

http://optelec.lowvision.com/magnist...magnifier.html

And there is also this one:

http://www.magnifyingaids.com/Deluxe...67d157c9d65c68

One thing you might try while you search for a magnifier is to place a small white object (paper, cardstock, material) down under the needle area or just behind it when you thread the needle. The hole of the needle becomes more visible making this job far less of a challenge.

I am also starting to have the occasional problem thread my Bernina. THANKS for all these helpful hints!!

If you want help threading the machine, I have to say- I don't recommend the Bernina magnifying set. I've taken to removing mine to thread the needle, as it kind of gets in the way of the thread path through the tension disks and stuff. I guess you could take it off for that part and then put it back on... (It is possible to thread with the glass on, just a pain in my opinion)

Does your machine not have a needle threader? I don't need to be able to see the eye on the needle to thread mine.


I will recommend the magnifier for quilting. I don't know why I went so long without it- it is going to save my back, my posture is so much better now! I just wish Bernina sold them as singles, as I don't really need a set of 3.

I can still thread the needle on mine. Of course I use big eye needles also. What I have trouble with is getting the needle in the right place while paper piecing. Just started this night before last, but I think its going to be a winner.

A long time ago I purchased a package of sewing machine needles. Unknown to me I purchased a handicap needle (not sure of the proper name). It had a hole on the top side of the needle hole so that you could just slide the thread down the side and it would be threaded. I've never looked for that needle again but maybe you should. That would definitely solve your threading problem. Good luck!