Juki Baby lock in blue
Circa late 1970s
I already had a BL-407 before adding this machine. You can see that machine on my Baby lock BL-407 page
3 thread Overlocker/serger.
Made in Japan, all metal machine.
I am creating this page on the 24th October 2024. I am a bit embarrassed to say that I cannot recall when I collected this machine, but looking back it appears I got it for free from FB marketplace in August 2023, just around the corner. I put it away thinking it was a 407 and planned to get to checking it out at some point. I was quite surprised today when I took a close look at it, that it is not a 407, but in fact a 406. I don’t think there is much of a difference between the models and this one is in near perfect condition.
It did not come with a pedal/power supply and I found out after cleaning and threading that the needle had been put in backwards. For whatever reason this machine looks like it has been barely used. Another beauty for my collection. I threaded her, roughly adjusted the tension knobs to what I thought felt right and staight away her stitches were beautiful. I initially thread all my new/old machines with coloured thread, incase anything needs fixing, but in this case the stitches were perfect. I have replaced the temporary cotton spools with overlock thread. I plan to use this machine for a while now, as my current projects only require 3 thread overlock. I’ll let my old faithful machine my Janomelock JL-634D have a rest.
Thanks to the wonderful members at the (1) Vintage Baby Lock/Juki Sergers & Variants | Facebook group, I was able to download a free copy of the manual and I have uploaded to my Google drive, so you too can have the PDF manual for the Babylock BL3-406 free here.
Threading
Hi.
I’ve just stumbled into your website. I have inherited my late mum’s Babylock 406 model. I’m relieved to have found your site.
However, boy! I am at a loss which thread belongs to which.
Thanks!
Hi Rina, Ive just added a simple image to the bottom of the page, that I just drew up. It is a little rough, but it is the best I can do right now. It shows the threading order and the points you need to go through the thread guides. I hope this helps a little. It can be fiddley, but once mastered you will be able to tackle nearly all vintage overlockers and there is a real sense of accomplishment once you have a perfect stitch. Cheers Pat
I need spair parts
I would suggest you locate your local sewing machine technician, they may be able to help you.