If the machine has seized, don't keep pressing the foot pedal or forcing the handwheel. Continuing to force a jammed machine can cause damage that makes the problem much worse.

• Turn the machine off before doing anything else
• Wait a moment before attempting to clear the jam

A thread nest caught in the looper area is the most common cause of a coverstitch machine jamming.

• Remove the presser foot and needle plate and carefully clear all tangled thread and fabric using small scissors or tweezers
• Never pull thread aggressively - this can damage the looper
• Check around the looper area thoroughly - thread can wrap around the looper shaft and be easy to miss
• Take your time and make sure the area is completely clear before reassembling

A bent needle can catch on the looper and lock the machine. Even if the needle looks straight, replace it - it's quick and rules out a common cause.

• Remove and inspect the needle for any bending or damage
• Fit a fresh ELx705 needle, fully inserted with the flat side to the back and tightened securely

While the machine is open, take a moment to inspect the looper for any damage caused by the jam.

• Look for any visible damage to the looper tip
• A damaged looper will need replacing before sewing again - get in touch and we can advise on the right parts

A threading mistake is often what caused the jam in the first place. Once everything is clear and reassembled, re-thread completely before trying again.

• Raise the presser foot before re-threading so the tension discs open properly
• Always thread the looper before the needles
• Follow your machine's threading path carefully, referring to your manual

Before switching the machine back on, place a piece of scrap fabric under the presser foot and turn the handwheel slowly towards you by hand. It should move freely and smoothly.

• If it turns freely, the jam is cleared and you can proceed
• If it's still stiff or won't turn at all, there may be a deeper mechanical issue that needs a service - don't force it

Once the handwheel moves freely, test on scrap fabric before returning to your project. Run a decent length of stitching and check everything looks and sounds right before continuing with your actual work.