This machine gave you dozens of decorative stitches before computerization.
Way before web cams and traffic cams there were sewing machine cams. These round devices were what allowed mechanical sewing machines to sew some pretty advanced decorative stitches.
The Janome Model 605 was first released in 1956. It could use 24 different cams to create complex decorative stitches. (A cam is a small, round metal pattern.) You could do a simple zigzag up to a running leaf pattern. You changed the look of the stitch by adjusting its width and length or putting in a twin needle.
To set up a stitch you chose the appropriate cam and set it in the compartment on the top of the machine. Then you went to your sewing manual to find the "recipe" for setting up your stitch. And finally, you did plenty of test stitching before sewing the decorative stitch on your project. (Test sewing on a scrap is still a good idea.)
The Model 605 had other "advanced" features we take for granted today: like a quick switch needle plate for zigzag or straight stitch, a chain stitch, blind hem stitch, a cloth guide, and even free motion embroidery. Available feet included a button sewing foot, yarn application foot, fringe foot, applique foot, and many others we still use today.
In the 1950s and 60s, before computerization, it took many more steps to set up your machine for a zigzag stitch or to do a simple buttonhole. But it was a major improvement over the machines of the 1930s and 40s, which were limited to straight stitches.
Today, for advanced decorative stitching, Janome customers prefer the Horizon Memory Craft 7700QCP. Computerization, technological refinements, and the display screen have made every step of sewing and quilting much easier. And no cams to keep track of.
Find out more about the Horizon 7700
