How to zig zag on a janome sewing model 385.4052LX200 what numbers do I set the length dial and the stitch dial on

If the zig zag function on your Elna Carina sewing machine is not working, there could be a few possible causes:

1. Incorrect stitch selector: Make sure you have selected the correct stitch on your machine. Double check that you have selected the zig zag stitch, and not accidentally switched to another stitch.
2. Incorrect stitch width: The stitch width knob on your machine controls the width of the zig zag stitch. Make sure that the stitch width is not set to zero, as this would prevent the zig zag function from working. Adjust the stitch width to the desired size.
3. Tension issues: If the thread tension is too tight or too loose, it can affect the zig zag stitch. Check your thread tension to make sure it is set correctly.
4. Clogged machine: Dust, lint, and debris can accumulate inside your sewing machine and affect its performance. Clean your machine thoroughly, including the bobbin area and the feed dogs.

If none of these solutions work, it may be necessary to have your machine serviced by a professional.

I was able to find this photo on the internet. If your machine looks something like this
http://www.worthpoint.com/worthopedia/strong-vintage-kenmore-sewing-machine

Kenmore sewing machine in cabinet model 117 305 Collectors Weekly

Photo gallery Stitch in Time Must Liquidate EstateSales org

https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=25&ved=0ahUKEwjXk5Gy3ZTMAhXhyIMKHaaSA_w4FBAWCEEwBA&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.searsarchives.com%2Fhistory%2Ffiles%2Fsewing_id.pdf&usg=AFQjCNEavJEwfhMVnix2pT0kwej_RSZ33A&cad=rja

then it most likely has zig-zag. There are a lot of dials and levers on this machine. Most straight stitch machines have only one or two. One dial/lever with numbers from 0-4 or 5 would be the stitch length. The other dial/lever with numbers from 0-4 or 5 would be stitch width, which would make a zig-zag stitch.

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One dial if for the Width.
The other dial is for the Length.
Do you need a manual; what is the Model name and number?

From the pattern selector (the bigger dial), select the zig-zag stitch. Then, using the stitch length dial (the smaller dial), adjust the stitch length. The closer your stitch length is to "0", the more dense will your zig-zag stitch be.

From the pattern selector (the bigger dial), select the zig-zag stitch. Then, using the stitch length dial (the smaller dial), adjust the stitch length. The closer your stitch length is to "0", the more dense will your zig-zag stitch be.

You need to take the width setting up to 4 and length down to 2 or less if you want a close zig zag. You may not want it that wide but usually 4 is the maximum width.

There is probably also a stitch selector if your machine has several stitch patterns it can do. I've looked at an image at http://www.stevekraftrepair.com/uploads/resized-P9200750.JPG and it looks to me like the left hand knob on the front of the machine is the stitch selector and is colour coded in with the images on the front panel. I just can't make out which number is the zig zag, it could be the red number 4??? So you would put this dial onto the zig zag, then turn the other dial up to a wider stitch width and I am guessing that the little blue box lower down the case has the reversing button and the stitch length setting.

Usually it pays to turn the width to zero BEFORE you make changes to the stitch selector, most machines seem to like being treated this way, ie engaging cams inside the works.

Also, it is always a good idea to check what foot you have on before you start sewing a swing needle stitch just to make sure that you don't hit the foot with the needle. Some feet are designed for straight stitch only and have a little hole but obviously this is not going to work for a zigzag stitch.

I hope this is of help and that I have understood your problem.

Generally on most machines you would set the stitch length dial to 2, and stitch width dial to 2. And the stitching selector to the zig zag icon.

If you give your make and model other experts may provide more specific info for your machine.

Is there a stitch width setting and has to be set to a number greater than zero?

The three front dials are as follows....left to right-Stitch width, type of stitch, and stitch length. The dial on the top adjust the top tension.

For straight stitch you want 0 stitch width, straight stitch, 3 for stitch length.

For zig zag you want turn your stitch width to how wide you want the zig zag, choose zig zag stitch, and choose how close you want the stitches to be on the stitch length dial. Practice on a piece of fabric. Usually for zig zag you will want to loosen your top tension a little bit.

Depends on which SU you have, but you need to move the stitch selector to Zig Zag, then set the stitch length to 2.5 and the stitch width to at least 2.

On the earlier models the stitch selector is a wheel inside the flap on the top of the machine, on the air electronics, it is a coloured dial.

If this doesn't help, check if you've inadvertently moved the needle position to the side setting.