Imagine being able to join together materials without thread or a bobbin, without feed dogs, and without tension - mechanical or personal. Would it still be sewing? Actually it would be needle punching, also called needle felting. In this process, specially barbed needles blend the fibers of two or more layers of fabric and other fibers.
The Xpression is the first needle punch machine from the Janome Sewing Machine Company, the world's largest manufacturer of home sewing machines. The machine is extremely easy to use and opens up a world of new possibilities for beginning and advanced sewing and craft enthusiasts alike.
Instead of one needle, the Xpression has five needles joined into a single unit, so they move up and down in unison. On the sides of each needle are tiny barbs. As the needles pierce the top layer of material, these barbs catch the individual fibers and push them down into the bottom layer. Five round holes in the needle plate correspond to the five needle points. These holes are slightly larger than those found on other felting machines, allowing penetration through even multiple layers to occur easily, quickly and cleanly, allowing for a better blending of fibers.
The fibers mingle to create new color and texture combinations that simply cannot be achieved with embroidery, appliqué, or any other kind of needlework. In needle felting there is no "right side" or "wrong side." Whether you push the fibers through from the front or back depends on the effect you're trying to achieve. Experimentation is part of the fun.
The Xpression has the same basic shape as a sewing machine. A foot pedal controls the motion of the needles. The sewing bed converts to a free arm for felting on dimensional projects or small items like cuffs. And there's a bright sewing light. What's missing is anything having to do with thread: no upper thread, no bobbin down below, and no feed dogs to move the fabric. A compartment below the needles, where a bobbin mechanism would go on a traditional sewing machine, collects any lint.
Included Accessories
- Screwdriver
- Hexagonal Wrench
- Lint Brush
- Five-hole needle plate with five needle unit (installed on machine)
- Extra 5 Needle Unit
- Spare Replacement Needles
- Single needle unit
- Single-hole needle plate
- Foot Control
- Power Cord
- Instruction Manual
Janome Company Warranty
- 25 Years on Mechanical Parts
- 2 Years on Electrical Parts
- 1 Year Labor
Offer Available On Orders Shipped To United States Destinations Only
