1. Introduction
Welcome to the Janome Artdecor 718a sewing machine. This manual provides essential information for safe operation, setup, maintenance, and troubleshooting to ensure optimal performance and longevity of your machine. The Janome Artdecor 718a features an attractive patchwork design, an optimal set of sewing operations, a built-in threader, and a 3-step fabric foot pressure regulator, making it suitable for a wide range of sewing projects.
2. Important Safety Instructions
Please read all instructions before using this sewing machine to prevent the risk of fire, electric shock, or injury to persons.
- Always unplug the sewing machine from the electrical outlet immediately after using and before cleaning, removing covers, or making any user servicing adjustments.
- Do not allow to be used as a toy. Close attention is necessary when this machine is used by or near children.
- Use this appliance only for its intended use as described in this manual. Use only attachments recommended by the manufacturer.
- Never operate this sewing machine if it has a damaged cord or plug, if it is not working properly, if it has been dropped or damaged, or dropped into water.
- Never drop or insert any object into any opening.
- Do not use outdoors.
- Do not operate where aerosol (spray) products are being used or where oxygen is being administered.
- To disconnect, turn all controls to the off position, then remove plug from outlet.
- Keep fingers away from all moving parts. Special care is required around the sewing machine needle.
- Always use the proper needle plate. The wrong plate can cause the needle to break.
- Do not use bent needles.
- Do not pull or push fabric while stitching. This may deflect the needle causing it to break.
- Wear safety glasses.
3. Machine Components Overview
Familiarize yourself with the main parts of your Janome Artdecor 718a sewing machine.
Key Parts:
- Stitch Selector Dial: Used to choose from 19 available sewing operations.
- Stitch Length Adjustment: Controls the length of your stitches (0 to 4mm).
- Zigzag Width Adjustment: Controls the width of zigzag stitches (0 to 6.5mm).
- Upper Thread Tension Adjuster: Regulates the tension of the upper thread.
- Handwheel: Manually raises and lowers the needle.
- Power Switch: Turns the machine on/off.
- Foot Pedal Connection: Port for connecting the foot controller.
- Needle: The primary tool for stitching.
- Presser Foot: Holds the fabric firmly against the feed dogs.
- Feed Dogs: Moves the fabric under the needle.
- Bobbin Winder: For winding thread onto bobbins.
- Built-in Threader: Assists in threading the needle eye.
- Built-in Thread Cutter: For conveniently cutting threads.
- Reverse Lever: For sewing in reverse to secure stitches.
- Loose Sleeve: Removable part for sewing cylindrical items like cuffs and sleeves.
- Scoreboard with tips: Located on the front of the machine, providing recommended stitch parameters.
- Storage compartment: For accessories, with a dedicated space for feet on the top panel.
4. Initial Setup
4.1 Unpacking and Placement
- Carefully remove the machine from its packaging.
- Place the machine on a stable, flat surface. Ensure there is adequate space for your work.
- Connect the foot controller plug to the machine's jack and the power plug to an electrical outlet.
4.2 Winding the Bobbin
- Place a spool of thread on the spool pin.
- Guide the thread through the thread guide.
- Wrap the thread around the bobbin winder tension disc.
- Place an empty bobbin onto the bobbin winder spindle.
- Wind the thread a few times manually around the bobbin.
- Push the bobbin winder spindle to the right.
- Press the foot controller to start winding. Stop when the bobbin is full.
- Cut the thread and push the bobbin winder spindle back to the left.
4.3 Inserting the Bobbin
- Open the bobbin cover plate.
- Insert the wound bobbin into the bobbin case, ensuring the thread unwinds in the correct direction (usually counter-clockwise).
- Guide the thread through the tension spring and into the thread slot.
- Close the bobbin cover plate.
4.4 Threading the Upper Thread
- Raise the needle to its highest position using the handwheel.
- Raise the presser foot lever.
- Place a spool of thread on the spool pin.
- Guide the thread through the upper thread guides.
- Pass the thread through the tension discs.
- Guide the thread through the take-up lever.
- Continue guiding the thread down to the needle bar.
- Use the built-in threader to thread the needle eye, or thread it manually from front to back.
- Pull about 6 inches of thread through the needle eye.
4.5 Bringing Up the Bobbin Thread
- Hold the upper thread lightly with your left hand.
- Turn the handwheel towards you to lower the needle into the needle plate and then raise it again.
- The upper thread will catch the bobbin thread, forming a loop. Pull the loop to bring the bobbin thread up through the needle plate opening.
- Pull both threads (upper and bobbin) under the presser foot and towards the back of the machine.
5. Operating Instructions
5.1 Stitch Selection and Adjustments
Your Janome Artdecor 718a offers 19 sewing operations. To select a stitch, turn the stitch selector dial. The scoreboard on the front of the machine provides tips for recommended stitch length, stitch width, and top thread tension for each operation.
- Stitch Length: Adjust from 0 to 4mm using the dedicated dial.
- Zigzag Width: Adjust from 0 to 6.5mm using the dedicated dial.
- Upper Thread Tension: Use the tension dial to fine-tune thread tension.
- Stitching Balance Regulator: For adjusting the balance of certain stitches.
- Speed Controller: The foot pedal allows for variable speed control.
- Cloth Foot Pressure Regulator: Adjusts the pressure of the presser foot on the fabric, useful for different fabric thicknesses.
5.2 Basic Sewing Steps
- Place the fabric under the presser foot, aligning the edge with a seam guide on the needle plate.
- Lower the presser foot lever.
- Turn the handwheel towards you to lower the needle into the fabric at the starting point.
- Press the foot controller gently to begin sewing.
- To secure the beginning and end of a seam, use the reverse lever to sew a few stitches backward.
- When finished, raise the needle to its highest position, raise the presser foot, and pull the fabric away from the machine.
- Use the built-in thread cutter to trim the threads.
5.3 Available Sewing Operations
- Working lines (straight stitch)
- Overlock stitching
- Secret stitches (blind hem)
- Knitted stitching
- Decorative stitches
- Automatic buttonhole (one-step)
5.4 Using the Free Arm (Loose Sleeve)
To sew cylindrical items like cuffs, sleeves, or pant hems, remove the accessory storage compartment to expose the free arm. This allows the fabric to fit around the narrow arm for easier sewing.
5.5 Lower Transporter Shutdown Mechanism
This feature allows you to drop the feed dogs, which is useful for free-motion quilting, darning, or embroidery. Consult your machine's specific instructions for engaging and disengaging this mechanism.
6. Maintenance and Care
Regular maintenance ensures your sewing machine operates smoothly and extends its lifespan.
6.1 Cleaning
- Always unplug the machine before cleaning.
- Remove the needle, presser foot, and needle plate.
- Use the provided dust brush to remove lint and dust from the bobbin area, feed dogs, and other accessible parts.
- Wipe the exterior of the machine with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
6.2 Needle Replacement
- Turn off the machine and unplug it.
- Loosen the needle clamp screw.
- Remove the old needle.
- Insert a new needle with the flat side facing the back of the machine, pushing it up as far as it will go.
- Tighten the needle clamp screw securely.
- Always use the correct needle type and size for your fabric.
6.3 Lubrication
Your Janome Artdecor 718a is designed for minimal lubrication. Refer to the full manual for specific oiling points if required, or consult a qualified service technician.
7. Troubleshooting
Here are some common issues and their potential solutions:
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Skipped Stitches | Incorrect needle, bent needle, improper threading, wrong needle size for fabric. | Replace needle with correct type/size, re-thread machine correctly, ensure needle is inserted fully. |
| Thread Breaking | Incorrect tension, poor quality thread, bent needle, improper threading, burrs on needle plate. | Adjust tension, use good quality thread, replace needle, re-thread, check for burrs. |
| Fabric Jamming | Incorrect presser foot pressure, pulling/pushing fabric, tangled threads under fabric. | Adjust presser foot pressure, guide fabric gently, clear tangled threads, ensure proper bobbin insertion. |
| Uneven Stitches | Incorrect tension, wrong needle, inconsistent fabric feeding. | Check and adjust upper and bobbin tension, ensure correct needle, allow feed dogs to move fabric naturally. |
| Machine Not Starting | Not plugged in, power switch off, foot controller not connected, bobbin winder engaged. | Check power connections, ensure switch is on, connect foot controller, disengage bobbin winder. |
8. Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model Number | Artdecor 718a |
| Brand Name | JANOME |
| Type | Household Sewing Machine |
| Condition | New |
| Number of Sewing Operations | 19 |
| Stitch Length Adjustment | 0 to 4mm |
| Zigzag Width Adjustment | 0 to 6.5mm |
| Stitch Formation | Lock Stitch |
| Feed Mechanism | Drop Feed |
| Mechanical Configuration | Off-the-Arm |
| Max. Sewing Speed | 600g/min (Note: This value may indicate a unit conversion or specific measurement, typically sewing speed is measured in stitches per minute.) |
| Power (W) | 55 Wt |
| Weight | 7.9 kg |
| Origin | Mainland China |
| Package Dimensions (L x W x H) | 49 cm x 25 cm x 37 cm |
| Package Weight | 10.8 kg |
| Warranty | 2 years |
9. User Tips
- Sewing Machine Mat: Using a rubberized mat can significantly reduce machine vibration, static stress, and noise during operation. It is also recommended for overlock work.
- Needle Selection: Always choose the appropriate needle for your fabric type.
- Universal Organ Needles: Ideal for silk (including artificial), batiste, chiffon, organza, linen, poplin, and similar fabrics.
- Jersey Needles: Best for thin knitwear, crochet products, and single (one-sided) jersey fabrics due to their medium-rounded tip.
- Jeans Needles: Designed for heavy-duty materials like denim, sails, and artificial leather.
- Accessory Storage: Utilize the removable storage compartment for accessories and the dedicated space for feet on the top panel for organized storage.
10. Warranty Information
The Janome Artdecor 718a sewing machine comes with a 2-year warranty from the date of purchase. This warranty covers manufacturing defects and malfunctions under normal use. Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims. For specific terms and conditions, refer to the warranty card included with your product or contact the seller.
11. Customer Support
If you encounter any issues not covered in this manual or require further assistance, please contact your retailer or the manufacturer's customer service. Have your model number (Artdecor 718a) and purchase information ready when contacting support.
