Janome Sewing Machine User Manual

Safety Precautions

Please read and understand this "Safety Precautions" section before using the sewing machine to ensure safe and correct operation. These precautions are essential to prevent harm or damage to yourself and others. Always adhere to them. Keep this manual in a place where users can refer to it at any time. This sewing machine is intended for household use in Japan only.

Explanation of Symbols

⚠️ Warning: Indicates potential hazards that could result in death or serious injury.
? Prohibition: Indicates actions that are forbidden.
ℹ️ Information/Mandatory: Indicates actions that must be performed or important information.

Warnings (⚠️)

• Risk of Electric Shock/Fire:
• Use only with standard household AC 100V power.
• Disconnect the power plug and turn off the switch when:
  • Leaving the vicinity of the machine.
  • Finishing use.
  • The power goes out while the machine is in use.

Cautions (⚠️)

• Risk of Electric Shock, Fire, or Injury:
• Do not attempt to disassemble the machine yourself.
• While the machine is operating, keep your eyes on the needle and do not bring your hands near moving parts such as the needle, handwheel, or tension assembly.
• Do not force or pull the fabric while sewing.
• Do not use a bent needle. ❌
• Ensure the needle and presser foot are securely fastened. Use a presser foot appropriate for the fabric.
• Close covers and guards when operating the machine.
• Exercise extra caution when children are using the machine or are nearby.
• Turn off the power switch when:
  • Replacing the needle, presser foot, or attachments.
  • Setting the upper or lower thread.
  • Replacing the lamp (allow it to cool first).
  • Performing machine maintenance.
• If any of the following abnormalities occur, stop using the machine immediately and contact your dealer for inspection, repair, or adjustment:
  • The machine does not operate normally.
  • The machine has been exposed to water.
  • The machine has been damaged due to dropping or impact.
  • Unusual smells or sounds occur.
  • The power cord or plug is damaged or deteriorated.

*Specifications and appearance are subject to change for improvement without notice.

About Your Sewing Machine

To ensure long-term satisfaction with your sewing machine:

• Before use, wipe off any dust or oil from the fabric with a dry, soft cloth to prevent staining.
• Never use thinner, benzine, or polishing powder.
• Do not expose the machine to direct sunlight for extended periods.
• Avoid humid or dusty environments.
• Do not drop or subject the machine to impact.

Table of Contents

This section lists the various parts and functions of the sewing machine.

1. Names of Each Part
2. Standard Accessories
3. How to Connect Power
4. Start/Stop Button
5. Speed Adjustment
6. Reverse Stitch Lever
7. Presser Foot Lift
8. Presser Foot Replacement
9. Free Arm
10. How to Choose Patterns
11. How to Remove Bobbin Case and Bobbin
12. Preparing Lower Thread
13. Setting Bobbin
14. How to Attach Bobbin Case
15. Preparing Upper Thread
16. How to Use Needle Threader
17. How to Pull Up Lower Thread
18. Straight Stitch Sewing
19. Thread Tension Adjustment
20. Lower Thread Tension Adjustment
21. Zigzag Stitch Sewing
22. Zigzag Stitch Overcasting
23. Tricot Stitch Overcasting
24. Shell Tuck
25. Hemming (Blind Stitch)
26. Buttonhole
27. Handling Needles
28. Sewing Machine Maintenance
29. Lamp Replacement
30. How to Fix Problems When the Machine is Not Working Well

Convenient Features

• Slow Start: Sewing begins slowly, providing peace of mind.
• Reverse Stitch Start: Reverse stitching, which could be rushed, is now effortless.
• Automatic Stop for Reverse Stitch: The machine automatically stops after completing the reverse stitch.
• Safety Device Function: The machine automatically stops if it encounters resistance, such as thread tangling in the bobbin area, preventing damage.

1. Names of Each Part

Diagram showing the main components of the sewing machine.

• Spool Pin: Holds the thread spool.
• Thread Guide: Guides the thread.
• Thread Take-up Lever: Moves up and down to carry the thread.
• Tension Dial: Adjusts the tension of the upper thread.
• Presser Foot: Holds the fabric down.
• Needle: Pierces the fabric.
• Needle Plate: Base plate with needle hole and stitch markings.
• Handwheel: Manually moves the needle up and down.
• Pattern Selection Dial: Selects different stitch patterns.
• Speed Control Dial: Adjusts sewing speed.
• Reverse Stitch Lever: Engages reverse stitching.
• Presser Foot Lifter: Raises and lowers the presser foot.
• Free Arm: Removable section for sewing cuffs, sleeves, etc.
• Accessory Box (for Free Arm): Storage compartment.
• Plug receptacle: Where the power cord plugs in.
• Power Switch: Turns the machine on/off.
• Start/Stop Button: Starts and stops sewing.
• Power Cord: Connects the machine to the power outlet.
• Auxiliary Table: Attaches to the machine for a larger work surface.

Diagram: A line drawing of the sewing machine with labels pointing to each part: Spool Pin, Thread Guide, Tension Dial, Take-up Lever, Presser Foot, Needle, Needle Plate, Handwheel, Pattern Selection Dial, Speed Control Dial, Reverse Stitch Lever, Presser Foot Lifter, Free Arm, Plug receptacle, Power Switch, Start/Stop Button, Power Cord, Auxiliary Table.

2. Standard Accessories

Standard accessories are stored in the auxiliary table.

• Bobbin: Used to hold the lower thread.
• Buttonhole Presser Foot: Specialized foot for sewing buttonholes.
• Needles: Various sizes for different fabrics.
• Screwdriver (Small): For adjustments and needle replacement.
• Seam Ripper: For removing stitches.
• Felt Washer: Used during bobbin winding.
• Auxiliary Table: Provides a larger sewing surface.

Diagram: Line drawings of standard accessories: bobbins, buttonhole presser foot, needles, small screwdriver, seam ripper, felt washer, and auxiliary table.

3. How to Connect Power

Follow these steps to connect the sewing machine to power.

1. Turn the power switch OFF. Plug the power cord into the machine's plug receptacle.
2. Plug the power cord into the wall outlet.
3. Turn the power switch ON.

Note: The power supply is for standard household use (100V, 50/60Hz). Always unplug the power cord when the machine is not in use.

Diagram: Shows the power switch on the machine (labeled "ON" and "OFF"), the plug receptacle, the power plug, and a wall outlet. It illustrates plugging the cord into the machine and then into the wall, followed by turning the switch ON.

4. Start/Stop Button

Press the button to start sewing. The machine will begin sewing a few stitches slowly, then accelerate to the speed set by the speed control dial.

Diagram: Shows the start/stop button on the machine.

5. Speed Adjustment

You can set the sewing speed freely. Adjust the speed control dial to your preferred speed.

Diagram: Shows the speed control dial with markings for "Slow" (おそい) and "Fast" (はやい).

6. Reverse Stitch Lever

When the machine is stopped: Pressing the reverse stitch lever while the machine is stopped will initiate reverse sewing at a low speed. Releasing the lever stops the reverse sewing.

When the machine is running: Pressing the reverse stitch lever while the machine is running will engage reverse sewing as long as the lever is held down. Releasing the lever stops the reverse sewing.

Diagram: Shows the reverse stitch lever and illustrates its operation when the machine is stopped and when it is running.

7. Presser Foot Lift

The presser foot lifter raises and lowers the presser foot.

• Position ① (Lowered): Lower the lifter for sewing.
• Position ② (Raised): Lift the presser foot to remove or insert fabric, or to change the presser foot.
• Position ③ (Further Raised): Use this position for inserting thick fabrics with the auxiliary lift.

Diagram: Shows the presser foot lifter in three positions: lowered, raised, and further raised (with auxiliary lift). Labels indicate the function of each position.

8. Presser Foot Replacement

Follow these steps to replace the presser foot.

1. Raise the needle and presser foot lifter. Press the lever on the presser foot holder to release the current presser foot.
2. Align the pin on the new presser foot with the groove on the presser foot holder. Gently lower the presser foot lifter to secure the new presser foot.

Diagram: Shows the presser foot holder with a lever, the needle, and the presser foot. It illustrates releasing the old foot and attaching a new one.

9. Free Arm

Remove the auxiliary table by pulling it sideways to reveal the free arm. The free arm allows for easier sewing of cylindrical items like sleeves and cuffs. The auxiliary table can also be used as an accessory storage box.

Diagram: Shows the auxiliary table being slid off the sewing machine to expose the free arm. It also shows the auxiliary table being used as an accessory box.

10. How to Choose Patterns

Align the indicator with the desired stitch pattern on the pattern selection dial. Turn the dial with the needle raised. Ensure the needle is not in the fabric when turning the dial to avoid bending or breaking it.

Diagram: Shows the pattern selection dial with various stitch patterns illustrated (straight stitch, zigzag stitches, overcasting stitches). An arrow indicates aligning the dial with a chosen pattern. A warning symbol (⚠️) is shown next to a diagram illustrating a needle in fabric while the dial is turned, indicating this should be avoided.

11. How to Remove Bobbin Case and Bobbin

To remove the bobbin case: Open the needle plate cover. Pull out the bobbin case by its knob.

To remove the bobbin: Tilt the bobbin case with the knob facing down, and the bobbin will fall out.

Diagram: Shows the needle plate cover being opened, the bobbin case being removed by its knob, and the bobbin falling out when the case is tilted.

12. Preparing Lower Thread (Bobbin Winding)

Winding a Bobbin:

• Set the speed control dial to "Fast" (はやい).
• Use only genuine Janome bobbins.
• Pull out the spool pin (it is stored inside the machine). Place the felt washer, then the bobbin onto the spool pin. Ensure the thread end is positioned as shown in the diagram. When storing, remove the bobbin and felt washer, and push the spool pin back in.
• Pull the thread from the spool, guide it through the thread guide, and then through the thread path.
• Insert the thread end into the small hole of the bobbin from the inside. Place the bobbin onto the bobbin winder spindle.
• Push the bobbin towards the right (towards the bobbin winder stopper).
• Hold the thread end and start the machine. Once about 1-2 layers of thread are wound onto the bobbin, stop the machine and cut the thread.
• Restart the machine and wind the bobbin until it is full. Stop the machine, remove the bobbin, and cut the thread.
• Return the bobbin winder spindle to its original position (push it in).

Caution: Always stop the machine before moving the bobbin winder spindle.

Diagrams: Illustrate the process of winding a bobbin: setting up the spool pin, felt washer, and bobbin; guiding the thread; inserting the thread into the bobbin hole; pushing the bobbin to the side; starting the machine; stopping and cutting thread; and returning the spindle.

13. Setting Bobbin

Insert the bobbin into the bobbin case with the thread end coming off in a clockwise direction (as viewed from the top). Pass the thread through the tension groove. Ensure the thread is correctly seated in the tension spring.

Diagram: Shows the bobbin being inserted into the bobbin case, with arrows indicating the direction of insertion and thread path.

14. How to Attach Bobbin Case

Hold the bobbin case by its knob. Align the projection on the bobbin case with the groove in the shuttle race. Insert the bobbin case fully, then release the knob.

Diagram: Shows the bobbin case being inserted into the shuttle race, aligning a projection with a groove.

15. Preparing Upper Thread

Threading the Upper Thread:

• Spool Setup: Pull out the spool pin. Place the felt washer, then the spool of thread.
• Threading Path:
• 1. Guide the thread through the thread guide.
• 2. Pass the thread through the tension discs.
• 3. Guide the thread up and over the take-up lever, then down through the left groove of the take-up lever.
• 4. Pass the thread down through the needle thread guide.
• 5. Thread the needle from front to back using the needle threader or manually. Leave about 10 cm (4 inches) of thread extending from the needle eye.

Ensure the thread is correctly passed through all guides and tension discs.

Diagrams: Illustrate the upper threading process step-by-step, showing the thread path from the spool, through guides, take-up lever, and into the needle.

16. How to Use Needle Threader

Follow these steps to use the automatic needle threader.

1. Raise the needle to its highest position and turn the dial to stop it. Pull the dial down as far as it will go.
2. Turn the dial in the direction of the arrow to guide the hook into the needle eye. Hook the thread onto the guide and the hook.
3. Turn the dial in the direction of the arrow. When the thread forms a loop, push the dial up to pull the loop of thread through the needle eye.
4. Pull the thread end out from the needle eye.

Notes on Needle Threader Use:

• This threader is designed for needles size 11 to 16 and Janome blue needles. It may not work with all needle and thread combinations.

Diagrams: Show the needle threader mechanism, the hook engaging the needle eye, and the thread being pulled through.

17. How to Pull Up Lower Thread

With the presser foot raised, hold the end of the upper thread with your left hand. Turn the handwheel towards you one full rotation. This will pull the upper thread and create a loop of the lower thread. Pull this loop up and out, bringing about 10 cm (4 inches) of both upper and lower threads to the front.

Diagrams: Illustrate holding the upper thread, turning the handwheel, and pulling up the lower thread loop.

18. Straight Stitch Sewing

Notes on Starting and Finishing Sewing:

• Start sewing with the needle pierced into the fabric.
• When finishing and pulling out the fabric, always raise the needle to its highest position first.

Starting to Sew:

Hold the thread and fabric under the presser foot. Turn the handwheel towards you to lower the needle into the fabric at the starting point. Lower the presser foot. Turn the handwheel towards you to lower the needle into the fabric at the starting point. Lower the presser foot. Start sewing slowly, guided by the guideline on the needle plate.

For securing the stitch at the beginning, use the reverse stitch lever.

Using Guidelines: The numbers on the needle plate indicate the distance from the needle hole center, useful for consistent seam allowances.

Changing Sewing Direction: Stop the machine with the needle pierced in the fabric. Raise the presser foot. Rotate the fabric around the needle to change the sewing direction.

Finishing Sewing: Press the reverse stitch lever and sew a few reverse stitches to secure the seam. Stop the machine, raise the needle to its highest position, raise the presser foot, and pull the fabric towards you. Cut the threads using the thread cutter groove on the presser bar.

Diagrams: Show the starting process, the use of guidelines on the needle plate, changing sewing direction, and finishing the seam with reverse stitches and thread cutting.

19. Thread Tension Adjustment

Adjust the thread tension by turning the tension dial. Incorrect tension can result in uneven stitches, puckering, or thread breakage.

Correct Tension: The upper and lower threads should interlock evenly in the middle of the fabric.

• Upper Thread Too Tight: The lower thread will appear on the top surface of the fabric. Turn the tension dial to a lower number.
• Upper Thread Too Loose: The upper thread will appear on the underside of the fabric. Turn the tension dial to a higher number.

Align the indicator on the dial with the desired number.

Diagrams: Illustrate the correct thread tension and the results of the upper thread being too tight or too loose, with arrows showing how to adjust the tension dial.

20. Lower Thread Tension Adjustment

Adjust the lower thread tension by turning the small screw on the bobbin case. Turning the screw clockwise tightens the tension (makes it stronger), and counter-clockwise loosens it (makes it weaker).

Guideline: The bobbin case should drop slowly when held by the thread and gently shaken. This corresponds to approximately 50g of resistance.

Diagrams: Show the bobbin case and the tension adjustment screw. A diagram illustrates the bobbin case being held by the thread and dropping.

21. Zigzag Stitch Sewing

Select the zigzag stitch pattern and adjust the stitch width (Small, Medium, Large) and stitch length (2-5) as needed. The basic presser foot is used.

For elastic fabrics like knits or jerseys, applying a fusible interfacing can improve sewing results.

Diagram: Shows the zigzag stitch pattern selection on the dial and the stitch being formed by the needle.

22. Zigzag Stitch Overcasting

This stitch is useful for finishing fabric edges to prevent fraying. Use zigzag stitch width (Large) and adjust stitch length (3-6).

For best results, use a slightly wider seam allowance and trim excess fabric close to the stitch line.

Diagram: Shows the zigzag overcasting stitch being applied to a fabric edge.

23. Tricot Stitch Overcasting

This stitch is ideal for preventing fraying and curling of stretchy fabrics like knits and tricots. Use a slightly wider seam allowance and trim excess fabric close to the stitch line.

Diagram: Shows the tricot stitch overcasting being applied to a fabric edge, with a close-up of the stitch.

24. Shell Tuck

This stitch creates a decorative tucked effect. Adjust stitch width (6-8) and stitch length (7). The basic presser foot is used.

Adjust thread tension to achieve clean shell tucks.

1. Fold the fabric in half diagonally (bias fold).
2. Sew along the folded edge, ensuring the needle falls on the fold line when it is to the right.

Diagrams: Show the shell tuck stitch pattern and the process of folding fabric and sewing the shell tuck.

25. Hemming (Blind Stitch)

This stitch creates a nearly invisible hem. Adjust stitch width (1-4) and stitch length (2). The basic presser foot is used.

Fabric Folding: Fold the fabric edge by approximately 0.4-0.7 cm.

Sewing:

1. Position the fabric so the needle, when furthest to the left, pierces the folded edge. Lower the presser foot and start sewing.
2. After sewing, unfold the fabric.

Diagrams: Show the blind stitch pattern, fabric folding for hemming, and the sewing process.

26. Buttonhole

Follow these steps to sew buttonholes. It is recommended to practice on a scrap piece of the same fabric. For stretchy fabrics, use a stabilizer.

Standard Buttonhole:

1. Select the buttonhole pattern. Pass the upper thread through the hole in the presser foot and align it with the lower thread. Position the presser foot so the start mark aligns with the fabric mark (A).
2. Start sewing at the marked starting point. Sew the first side of the buttonhole.
3. Raise the needle, select the next pattern (bar tack), and sew about 5 stitches. Stop the machine.
4. Raise the needle, select the next pattern (opposite side), and sew the same length as the first side. Stop the machine.
5. Raise the needle, select the final pattern (bar tack), and sew about 5 stitches.
6. Raise the presser foot lifter, pull the fabric out, leaving about 10 cm of thread. Cut the threads. Pull the upper thread to the back of the fabric and tie the threads.
7. Insert a pin into the buttonhole to prevent cutting the stitches. Use the seam ripper to carefully cut open the buttonhole along the center.

Buttonhole with Stabilizer (for thicker fabrics or stability):

1. Hook the loop of the stabilizer onto the knob behind the presser foot. Pull it forward and secure it in the three-pronged holder.
2. Sew the buttonhole following the same steps as the standard buttonhole.
3. Pull the stabilizer loop to remove slack and trim any excess stabilizer.

Diagrams: Illustrate the buttonhole sewing process, including pattern selection, sewing each side, bar tacks, and opening the buttonhole. Also shows the process for buttonholes with stabilizer.

27. Handling Needles

Needle Replacement: Always turn off the power switch before replacing the needle.

1. Loosen the needle set screw (turn it about 1-2 times counter-clockwise) and remove the needle.
2. Insert the new needle with its flat side facing towards you. Push it up as far as it will go until it touches the pin. Tighten the needle set screw securely.

Checking the Needle: A good needle will have a sharp point that is visible when the needle is placed on a flat surface like the needle plate. Do not use needles that are bent or have blunted tips.

Guide to Selecting Needles and Threads for Fabrics:

Generally, use finer threads and needles for lighter fabrics, and thicker threads and needles for heavier fabrics. Use this table as a guide and test on fabric scraps.

It is generally recommended to use the same type of thread for both upper and lower threads.

For stretchy or easily skipped-stitch fabrics, Janome Blue Needles (sold separately) or similar high-quality needles can provide better results.

The included needle is size #14.

Diagrams: Show how to replace a needle, including loosening the set screw and inserting the new needle. A diagram also illustrates how to check if a needle is straight.

28. Sewing Machine Maintenance

Cleaning the Feed Dogs: Always turn off the power switch before cleaning.

1. Remove the needle and presser foot. Loosen the needle plate screw and remove the needle plate.
2. Use a brush to sweep away lint and debris from the feed dogs towards the front.
3. Replace the needle plate and tighten the screw.

Cleaning the Hook Area:

• Raise the needle and open the bed cover. Remove the bobbin case.
• Open the large hook cover and remove the shuttle hook.
• Use a brush to clean the inside of the hook area. Apply 1-2 drops of sewing machine oil as indicated, and wipe clean with a cloth.
• Wipe the shuttle hook with an oiled cloth and reassemble in reverse order.

Diagrams: Show the feed dog area and the hook area, illustrating the removal of parts and the cleaning process.

29. Lamp Replacement

Turn off the power switch. Wait for the lamp to cool before replacing it.

To Remove:

1. Loosen the set screw and remove the front cover.
2. Turn the lamp counter-clockwise to remove it.

To Install:

1. Turn the new lamp clockwise to install it.
2. Replace the front cover and secure it with the set screw.

Diagrams: Show the lamp housing, the set screw, and the process of removing and installing the lamp bulb.

30. How to Fix Problems When the Machine is Not Working Well

This section provides troubleshooting tips for common issues.

• Needle thread breaking: Check needle insertion, thread path, tension settings, and needle condition.
• Bobbin thread breaking: Check bobbin winding, bobbin case insertion, and lower thread tension.
• Skipped stitches: Ensure correct needle type and insertion, check for bent needles, and verify thread path.
• Uneven stitches: Adjust upper and lower thread tension, check fabric type and needle combination.
• Machine not feeding fabric: Ensure feed dogs are raised, check presser foot pressure, and clean feed dogs.
• Noisy operation: Check for lint buildup, ensure proper lubrication, and check for loose parts.

If problems persist, consult your authorized Janome dealer.