Tajima embroidery machines work really well, but sometimes small problems still show up. And when you’re a beginner, even tiny issues can feel very stressful. Don’t worry, we’re here with you, and we’ll guide you through every problem step by step. In this guide, we’ll explain everything in simple words so you can fix thread breaks, skipped stitches, tension issues, and more without confusion. By the end, you’ll feel confident and your Tajima will run smoothly again.
Beginner’s Guide to Tajima Embroidery Machine Problems and Quick Fixes
7 Most Common Tajima Embroidery Machine Errors
When you’re working with Tajima commercial embroidery, a few common issues show up again and again, especially for beginners..
These Tajima machine problems can stop your work, affect stitch quality, or cause the machine to freeze. But don’t worry, most of these Tajima embroidery machine errors are simple to understand and even easier to fix once you know what to check.
Here are the seven errors beginners report the most:
- Connection & Communication Error
- Invalid Stitch Code Format
- Excessive Stitch Length Issue
- Upper Thread & Bobbin Tension Problem
- Motor & Belt Encoder Issue
- Main Shaft Rotation Problem
- Bobbin Setup & Winding Error
1. Connection & Communication Error
This is one of the first issues beginners face with a Tajima embroidery machine, and it can stop your whole workflow. It usually appears as Error Code 2B1. When the machine fails to connect with your computer, you can’t load designs, the screen may freeze, or the machine may reject files.
It slows down production, affects your Tajima embroidery setup, and sometimes makes you think something is seriously wrong, but don’t worry, this problem is usually very easy to fix without heavy Tajima embroidery repair or technical help.
How to Fix it?
- Check and tighten all cables connected to the machine and computer.
- Restart both devices to refresh the system and clear communication errors.
- Make sure your USB, LAN, or serial cable is not damaged or loose.
- Resend the design using proper format after fixing the connection.
- If needed, perform a simple reboot to learn how to reset Tajima machine safely.
2. Invalid Stitch Code Format
This issue normally appears as Error 2B4, and it happens when your design file has stitch commands that don’t match Tajima’s required format.
When this error shows up, the machine refuses to load the design, stops mid-process, or shows repeated Tajima error codes. For beginners, it feels confusing because everything looks fine on the screen, but the real problem is inside the file.
This is where the right Tajima embroidery software and proper exporting settings make all the difference. With a few simple checks, you can fix this without any heavy Tajima machine service or technical intervention.
Easy Solutions
- Re-export the design using a proper Tajima-compatible format (.DST or .TBF).
- Make sure your software uses the correct stitch commands.
- Remove extremely tiny or unsupported stitch types before saving.
- Simplify complicated sections of the design where the error may be triggered.
- If errors repeat, try a fresh export; this often gives clean Tajima embroidery solutions.
3. Excessive Stitch Length Issue
This problem usually appears as Error 2B5, and it happens when your design includes stitches longer than the Tajima limit of 5.1 mm. When this occurs, your Tajima embroidery machine may stop, skip sections, or refuse to run the design.
Many beginners think the machine is faulty, but actually, the design is too heavy for smooth stitching. Long stitches also pull the fabric, which leads to embroidery thread looping and tension problems.
The good thing is, this issue is very easy to fix with a few simple adjustments and a light Tajima tension adjustment.
Quick Solutions
- Reduce long stitches so they stay under the 5.1 mm limit.
- Simplify heavy or dense areas in the design.
- Minimize unnecessary jump stitches for smoother sewing.
- Make a small tension adjustment based on your fabric type.
- Save and re-export the design; a fresh export often fixes everything.
4. Upper Thread & Bobbin Tension Problem
This issue is very common and usually shows up as error 291 on a Tajima embroidery machine. When this happens, you may see thread breaks, uneven stitches, or loose tension, and it feels confusing because the design itself looks fine.
Sometimes, even a clean Tajima DST file won’t stitch properly if the tension is off. Don’t worry, this is one of the easiest issues in Tajima embroidery troubleshooting, and a few small checks can fix it quickly.
Easy Fixes
- Rethread the machine from start to finish.
- Make sure the bobbin is placed in the correct direction.
- Clean lint from the hook and bobbin area.
- Adjust upper tension slowly until stitches look balanced.
- Test on scrap fabric before starting your real design.
5. Motor & Belt Encoder Issue
This problem usually appears as error 311, and it happens when your Tajima embroidery machine cannot read the belt movement correctly.
Beginners often get worried because the machine may stop suddenly or run unevenly, but most of the time, it’s just dust or a loose belt. With a little cleaning and checking, you can fix it easily without buying extra Tajima embroidery parts.
Simple Solutions
- Check the belt; it should not be too tight or too loose.
- Clean the encoder wheel so it reads clearly.
- Restart the machine to reset the motor.
- Add light lubrication where needed.
- Make sure nothing is blocking motor movement.
6. Main Shaft Rotation Problem
This issue often shows as error 314, and it makes the main shaft stop rotating smoothly inside a Tajima machine. When this happens, the stitching freezes, and beginners think the machine is damaged.
In reality, the shaft just needs cleaning, proper oiling, or small adjustments. Even the best Tajima embroidery models face this if maintenance is ignored.
Fast Fixes of This Error
- Clean the rotary hook and remove stuck threads.
- Lubricate the shaft and hook area properly.
- Check the belts for slipping or wear.
- Remove anything blocking the shaft path.
- Restart the machine for smoother rotation.
7. Bobbin Setup & Winding Error
This problem appears when the machine detects a bobbin issue, often shown as a general bobbin error during stitching on a Tajima machine.
A badly wound or wrongly placed bobbin causes loose stitches, thread nests, or sudden stops. Fixing this is simple and helps you get cleaner results, especially when working on Tajima industrial embroidery jobs.
Beginner-Friendly Solutions
- Wind the bobbin evenly, not too loose or too tight.
- Place the bobbin in the correct direction in the case.
- Clean lint from the bobbin area before starting.
- Trim thread tails before stitching.
- Test a few stitches on scrap fabric to check balance.
General Maintenance Tips for Tajima Embroidery Machines
Here are some simple and important maintenance steps that keep your Tajima running smoothly and prevent many common issues:
- Keep your machine covered when not in use so dust doesn’t settle inside moving parts.
- Use high-quality thread and needles to reduce stress on the machine’s internal parts.
- Check hoop tightness regularly so the fabric doesn’t slip and strain the machine.
- Inspect your thread path weekly to make sure no guides or springs are worn out.
- Keep your machine in a temperature-controlled room to avoid moisture damage.
- Make sure the machine stands on a stable table or stand to prevent vibration issues.
- Save your designs in a clean, correct format to avoid unnecessary machine load.
- Run a weekly deep-clean session, including thread cutters, sensors, and vents.
- Rotate all needles if you do multi-head or high-volume jobs to maintain consistency.
- Check the power supply to ensure voltage is stable; embroidery machines hate sudden drops.
Conclusion
Once you learn how to handle the common issues and basic fixes, working with a Tajima machine becomes easier and far more reliable.
Good maintenance, clean digitized files, and the right settings help your machine deliver smooth, professional stitching every time.
And whether you’re checking the Tajima embroidery machine price, planning to buy Tajima embroidery machine, remember that great results always depend on the quality of your digitizing. Even the best machines can struggle if the file isn’t prepared correctly. That’s why choosing the right embroidery digitizing services matters, a properly digitized file means cleaner stitching, fewer interruptions, and more confidence in every order you deliver.
ZDigitizing helps you achieve this by creating fully manual, high-quality files designed to run perfectly on your machine.
Every detail is crafted with care, from density to underlay to fabric type, so your designs stitch smoothly from the start. You also get fast delivery, free minor revisions, and 24/7 support whenever you need help.
And to make it even better, your first order comes with a 50% discount, a great way to upgrade your embroidery results with professional embroidery digitizing you can rely on.
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FAQs
Yes, Tajima is beginner-friendly, especially models like the Tajima SAI. It comes with a simple touch panel, built-in tutorials, auto-trimming, and laser alignment to help new users learn quickly. Beginners can start embroidering confidently without feeling stressed.
In the U.S., Hirsch Solutions is the exclusive distributor of Tajima machines. They offer official sales, service, and support, making them the most reliable source for Tajima commercial embroidery equipment.
Several machines are known for reliability, such as Brother Stellaire 2, Brother PR680W, Baby Lock Aurora, Janome Memory Craft 500E, Bernette 70 DECO, and Bernina models like the 540 and E16 Pro. These options consistently perform well for home and small business use.
Tajima embroidery machines are made in Japan by Tajima Industries. There is also production by Shanghai Tajima in China, but the original brand and core manufacturing come from Japan.
Tajima stands out for its strong build, advanced features, and reliable software. Compared to many entry-level and commercial brands, Tajima offers better stitch accuracy, faster speed, and greater long-term value.
Turn off the machine and unplug it. Press and hold the Needle Up/Down and Auto Trim buttons together. While holding them, plug the machine back in, turn it on, and then release the buttons to complete the reset.
