Best Spare Parts for Tajima Embroidery Machine – Expert Review

You’re in the middle of a production run when the thread snaps — not because of tension, but because the movable knife is dull. You pull the part, squint at the etched number, and start searching. Five tabs open, three forum threads, and one vague eBay listing later, you still don’t know which knife fits your Tajima. That’s the frustrating reality of buying spare parts for Tajima embroidery machines: part numbers look alike, compatibility is unclear, and the wrong purchase means downtime.

The right spare part does more than just fit. It holds its edge longer, matches OEM tolerances, and keeps your machine running at production speed. Whether you need a movable knife, a fixed knife, hoop screws, or a rotary hook, the key differences come down to part number accuracy, material quality, and which machine generation you own. After sorting through the options, a few parts stand out for reliability and common fit.

This roundup covers five essential spare parts — from the everyday movable knife to the diamond-coated rotary hook. We’ll look at what each one does, who it’s best for, and where it falls short. If you’re replacing a worn knife on a standard Tajima, start with the Baludan 050320880010. For SWF machines, the Baludan fixed/moving knife set is a solid choice. And if you’re chasing long rotary hook life, the Koban DLC is worth the extra cost. Let’s get into the details.

Here’s a quick comparison of the key specs for each product to help you narrow down your choice.

Baludan 050320880010

This is the movable knife you’ll reach for most often. Part number 050320880010 is one of the most common knife replacements on standard Tajima machines. If your multi-head is snapping thread or leaving uncut tails, this part is the first suspect.

Baludan makes a straight-ahead replacement. It matches the original dimensions, so installation is a direct swap — no filing or shimming. The edge is sharp out of the box, and for a standard movable knife, it holds up well through thousands of stitches. It’s best for production shops that need a reliable, no-surprises part for their routine maintenance cycle.

The trade-off? No special coating. Uncoated blades dull faster in high-volume acrylic or metallic thread runs. You’ll also want to check your machine’s generation — some newer Tajima heads use a slightly different knife mount. Verify your part number before ordering.

• Part number 050320880010
• Movable knife only (no fixed knife included)
• Brand: Baludan
• Compatible with Tajima embroidery machines
• In stock at time of writing

Best for: Technicians who need a direct OEM-style replacement for the most common Tajima movable knife.

Baludan 050320920000

Here’s the cousin of the first pick. This movable knife carries three different part numbers on one listing: 050320920000, 050320920T12, and 050320920001. That labeling suggests it fits multiple Tajima machine models or revisions that share the same knife geometry.

The versatility is its main draw. If you service a mix of older and newer Tajima heads, this one knife may cover both without needing to stock two SKUs. The build quality looks identical to the 050320880010 — same Baludan packaging, same blade profile from what we can see.

But that flexibility comes with a catch. Because it lists multiple numbers, you have to be certain your machine actually uses one of them. Mistaking a 92-series for an 88-series could mean a knife that doesn’t seat properly. Cross-reference your existing part before buying.

• Part numbers: 050320920000, 050320920T12, 050320920001
• Movable knife
• Brand: Baludan
• Intended for Tajima machines
• Single piece (not a set)

Best for: Shops that maintain multiple Tajima models and want a single part that might cover several generations.

Baludan SWF Pair Set

3rd Pick

Baludan

TAJIMA SWF Fixed Moving Knife Embroidery Machine Parts Cutter #AC0516000000/#AC0517000000(Pairs)

Movable Knife AC0516000000; Fixed Knife AC0517000000

Buy on Amazon

This isn’t a single knife — it’s a matched pair: movable knife AC0516000000 and fixed knife AC0517000000. The listing is specifically for Tajima SWF machines, which use a different knife geometry than standard Tajima heads.

A matched set makes sense because knives wear together. Replacing only the movable side can leave the fixed side with a worn edge, leading to poor cutting. This pair ensures both faces are fresh. The price is for one set, so order per head. Stock is marked scarce, so if your SWF machine is down, don’t delay.

Limitation: it only fits SWF models. If you run a standard Tajima (non-SWF), these knives won’t work. Also, availability may be inconsistent — we saw scarce stock indication, which means you might wait for restock.

• Includes movable knife AC0516000000 and fixed knife AC0517000000
• Designed for Tajima SWF embroidery machines
• Sold as one set (two pieces)
• Brand: Baludan
• Stock limited — check current availability

Best for: SWF machine owners who want a perfectly matched knife pair without ordering two separate parts.

Fbshicung Hoop Screws 12pc

Small parts can stop production just as fast as a big one. These hoop screws from Fbshicung measure 22mm in length and 3.5mm in diameter, and they’re made of copper rather than steel. The pack gives you a dozen screws — enough to re-dress several hoops or keep spares handy.

Copper is a smart choice here. It’s softer than steel, so the screw threads are less likely to damage the hoop itself if overtightened. And on a busy production floor, hoop screws walk away or strip over time. Having twelve in one pack means you’re not hunting for that one missing screw mid-run.

The catch: these are aftermarket, not Tajima branded. While they fit many Tajima and Chinese-manufactured hoops, the thread pitch or head shape could differ slightly. If your hoop uses an unusual screw, you might need to test one before committing. Also, copper is softer, so the screw head can deform if you use too much torque.

• 12 screws per pack
• Size: 22mm length, 3.5mm diameter
• Material: copper
• Compatible with Tajima and Chinese embroidery machines
• Replacement for worn or lost hoop screws

Best for: Anyone who has stripped hoop screws and needs a bulk replacement that fits both Tajima and generic hoops.

Koban DLC Rotary Hook

This is the premium option. Made by Koban of Japan, this rotary hook features a Diamond Like Carbon (DLC) coating. The part number is ME0505010AMQ, and it’s designed for Tajima and SWF machines.

DLC coating reduces friction between the hook and the bobbin case. Less friction means less heat buildup, longer hook life, and smoother stitching at high speeds. For shops running 24/7 or pushing through heavy materials like denim or leather, this hook can outlast a standard uncoated hook by a noticeable margin.

The downsides: price is higher than a standard hook, and this is a generic-brand listing (not OEM Tajima). While Koban is a reputable Japanese manufacturer, the exact fitment tolerances may not be identical to a factory Tajima hook. If your machine is under warranty, an aftermarket hook could void coverage. Also, DLC coatings can chip if the hook takes a hard impact during installation.

• Original Japan Koban brand
• DLC (Diamond Like Carbon) coating
• Rotary hook for Tajima and SWF machines
• Part number ME0505010AMQ
• Single hook, no bobbin case included

Best for: Operators who want maximum durability from their rotary hook and are willing to pay more for a coated version.

How We Chose These Products

We started with the parts that cause the most production downtime: knives, screws, and the rotary hook. Movable knives wear fastest, so they dominate the list. We prioritized parts with clear, specific part numbers because Tajima machines are finicky about compatibility — a one-digit mismatch can mean a non-functional replacement.

We also looked at availability. A great part does you no good if it’s backordered for weeks. Baludan’s two single knives were shown in stock, while the SWF pair had scarce stock — we noted that honestly. Material and coating mattered: copper screws offer real advantages for hoop longevity, and DLC coating is a genuine upgrade for hooks. Finally, we considered whether the part serves a distinct need — the hoop screws fill a different gap than the knives, making the list useful for a wider range of repairs.

Buying Guide: What Really Matters

Part number accuracy is the single most important factor. Tajima embroidery machines use a dense numbering system that varies by machine generation and region. The 050320880010 and 050320920000 look similar, but they fit different head assemblies. Always pull your existing part and compare the etched number. When in doubt, measure the knife length and mounting hole spacing — sometimes the number is worn off.

Material and coating affect how long the part lasts. Standard steel knives are cheap but dull quicker, especially with abrasive threads like metallics. DLC-coated hooks reduce friction but cost more. Copper hoop screws are softer than steel, which protects your hoops but can wear faster. Think about your typical workload: high-volume acrylic thread work justifies a coated knife; light-duty cotton work doesn’t.

Don’t forget the difference between movable and fixed knives. They’re often sold separately, but they wear together. If your movable knife is chipped, the fixed knife likely has damage too. The SWF pair set solves that by selling both together. For standard Tajima machines, consider ordering both halves at the same time.

Our Top Recommendation

For most shops, the Baludan 050320880010 is the smartest buy. It’s the most common movable knife on standard Tajima machines, it’s in stock, and it does the job without fuss. Pair it with a fixed knife of the same number and you have a solid maintenance kit for any five-head or six-head production line.

If you run SWF machines, the Baludan SWF Pair Set is the obvious choice — one order gives you both halves. For those with mixed machine fleets, the Baludan 050320920000 offers a wider compatibility net, just verify your model first. And if you’re tired of replacing rotary hooks every few months, the Koban DLC hook is a legitimate upgrade that pays for itself in reduced downtime.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I tell which movable knife part number fits my Tajima machine?
Look at the existing knife. The part number is stamped into the metal near the blade edge. If it’s worn off, remove the knife and measure the length from the mounting hole to the tip, plus the hole diameter. Cross-reference those dimensions with known Tajima knife specs online. Your machine’s serial number can also help narrow the generation.

Are these parts OEM or high-quality aftermarket?
Baludan and Fbshicung are aftermarket brands, not Tajima OEM. Koban is an independent Japanese manufacturer known for precision parts. None of these come in Tajima-branded packaging. In our experience, Baludan parts match OEM dimensions well, but if your machine is under warranty, check with your dealer first.

Can I use Tajima parts on a SWF embroidery machine?
Standard Tajima part numbers usually do not cross to SWF machines. The knife mounts and rotary hook designs differ. The SWF-specific knives (AC0516000/AC0517000) and the Koban DLC hook (ME0505010AMQ) are explicitly listed as compatible with SWF. Always verify with your machine’s manual.

How often should I replace the rotary hook in my Tajima?
There is no fixed schedule — it depends on stitch count and material. A standard hook typically lasts 6 to 12 months in a single-head running 8 hours a day. Signs of wear include skipped stitches, frayed thread on the bobbin, or a rough feeling when turning the hook by hand. The DLC-coated hook can last two to three times longer under similar conditions.