Janome 311PG

Janome 311PG Sewing Machine Instruction Manual

Model: 311PG | Brand: Janome

Introduction

Experience the perfect blend of tradition and innovation with the Janome 311PG Anniversary Edition Sewing Machine. This commemorative model celebrates Janome's 100-year history with a feature-rich design ideal for beginner sewists. Boasting 15 built-in stitches, including a four-step buttonhole, and a dial for easy stitch selection, the 311PG offers versatility in every project. Its front-loading vertical oscillating hook bobbin ensures smooth operation, while the manual thread tension control dial ensures precision. The 311PG also features a free arm for easy pant hems and shirt sleeves, a push-pull bobbin winder for convenience, and an extra high presser foot lift for effortless fabric feeding. Measuring 15.2" x 11.6" x 6", this compact machine is perfect for any sewing space, weighing just 13 lbs for easy portability. With its user-friendly design and robust features, the Janome 311PG Anniversary Edition is an excellent choice for anyone looking to start or expand their sewing journey.

Key Features

  • Versatile Stitching: Enjoy 15 built-in stitches, including a four-step buttonhole, allowing you to tackle a wide range of sewing projects with ease.
  • User-Friendly Design: The dial pattern selection with adjustable stitch width and length ensures simple and intuitive operation, perfect for beginners.
  • Front Loading Bobbin System: Experience hassle-free bobbin changes with the convenient front loading vertical oscillating hook bobbin system.
  • Free Arm Sewing: Remove the storage compartment to transform your sewing machine into a free arm, ideal for sewing pant hems, shirt sleeves, and other cylindrical projects.
  • Manual Thread Tension Control: Fine-tune your stitches with the manual thread tension control dial, ensuring consistent results every time.
Janome 311PG Anniversary Edition Sewing Machine
Figure 1: Front view of the Janome 311PG Anniversary Edition Sewing Machine.

Setup

Unpacking and Initial Inspection

Carefully remove the sewing machine from its packaging. Retain all packaging materials for future transport or storage. Inspect the machine for any signs of damage.

Power Connection

Connect the foot controller plug to the machine's power socket. Insert the power supply plug into a suitable electrical outlet.

Spool Pin and Thread Placement

Raise the spool pin to its upright position. Place your thread spool onto the spool pin.

Janome 311PG Sewing Machine with thread spool
Figure 2: Top view of the Janome 311PG, showing the spool pin in use.

Operating Instructions

Bobbin Winding

  1. Place an empty bobbin onto the bobbin winder spindle.
  2. Guide the thread from the spool pin through the bobbin winding tension disc.
  3. Wind the thread a few times manually around the bobbin.
  4. Push the bobbin winder spindle to the right.
  5. Press the foot controller (or start/stop button if available) to begin winding. Stop when the bobbin is full.
  6. Cut the thread and return the spindle to the left.

Threading the Machine

  1. Raise the presser foot lever.
  2. Guide the thread from the spool pin through the upper thread guide.
  3. Follow the numbered threading path down the right channel, around the tension discs, and up the left channel to the take-up lever.
  4. Thread the take-up lever from right to left.
  5. Continue guiding the thread down to the needle bar, passing it through any guides.
  6. Thread the needle from front to back.

Inserting the Bobbin

The Janome 311PG features a convenient front-loading vertical oscillating hook bobbin system.

  1. Open the bobbin cover located on the free arm.
  2. Insert the full bobbin into the bobbin case, ensuring the thread unwinds in the correct direction (usually counter-clockwise).
  3. Pull the thread through the tension spring of the bobbin case.
  4. Close the bobbin cover.
Janome 311PG Sewing Machine with free arm removed, showing bobbin area
Figure 3: The free arm removed, revealing the bobbin compartment and accessory storage.

Stitch Selection

Use the stitch selection dial to choose one of the 15 built-in stitches, including the four-step buttonhole. Refer to the stitch guide on the machine for visual reference.

Adjusting Stitch Length and Width

Use the stitch length and width dials to fine-tune your chosen stitch. The manual thread tension control dial allows for precise tension adjustments.

Janome 311PG Sewing Machine with stitch selection dials
Figure 4: Close-up of the stitch selection and adjustment dials on the Janome 311PG.

Basic Sewing

  1. Place your fabric under the presser foot.
  2. Lower the presser foot.
  3. Slowly press the foot controller to begin sewing. Guide the fabric gently.
  4. To secure stitches, use the reverse sewing lever for backstitching at the beginning and end of seams.

Maintenance

Cleaning

Regularly clean the bobbin area and feed dogs using the brush provided. Remove any lint or thread buildup.

Needle Replacement

Replace the needle regularly, especially if it becomes bent, dull, or if you notice skipped stitches. Always use the correct needle type and size for your fabric.

Troubleshooting

Skipped Stitches

  • Ensure the needle is inserted correctly and is not bent or dull.
  • Check that the machine is threaded properly.
  • Use the correct needle type for your fabric.

Thread Breaking

  • Verify correct upper and bobbin thread tension.
  • Check for burrs on the needle plate or bobbin case.
  • Ensure the thread is not old or of poor quality.

Specifications

FeatureDetail
BrandJanome
Model Number311PG
Built-in Stitches15 (including 4-step buttonhole)
Bobbin SystemFront-loading vertical oscillating hook
Arm TypeFree Arm
Dimensions15.2" x 11.6" x 6"
Weight13 lbs
UPC732212412325

Warranty and Support

Warranty Information

The Janome 311PG Sewing Machine comes with a 25-year limited warranty. Please refer to the warranty card included in your packaging for full details and terms.

Customer Support

For further assistance, troubleshooting, or to purchase accessories, please visit the official Janome website or contact their customer support.

You can also visit the Janome Store on Amazon for more products and information.