Janome 8100 Instruction Manual



IMPORTANT SAFETY

INSTRUCTIONS

When using an electrical appliance, basic safety precautions should always be followed, including the following:

Read all instructions before using this appliance.

DANGER – To reduce the risk of electric shock:

1. An appliance should never be left unattended when plugged in. Always unplug this sewing machine

from the electric outlet immediately after using and before cleaning.

2. Always unplug before replacing a sewing machine bulb. Replace bulb with same type rated 13.2 V d.c.,

3 Watts.

WARNING – To reduce the risk of burns, fire, electric shock, or injury to persons:

1. Do not allow to be used as a toy. Close attention is necessary when this sewing machine is used by or

near children.

2. Use this appliance only for its intended use as described in this owner’s manual.

Use only attachments recommended by the manufacturer as contained in this owner’s manual.

3. 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.

Return this sewing machine to the nearest authorized dealer service center for examination, repair,

electrical or mechanical adjustment.

4. Never operate the appliance with any air opening blocked. Keep ventilation openings of this sewing

machine and foot controller free from accumulation of lint, dust and loose cloth.

5. Never drop or insert any object into any opening.

6. Do not use outdoors.

7. Do not operate where aerosol (spray) products are being used or where oxygen is being administered.

8. To disconnect, turn all controls to the off (“O”) position, then remove plug from outlet.

9. Do not unplug by pulling on cord. To unplug, grasp the plug, not the cord.

10. Keep fingers away from all moving parts. Special care is required around the sewing machine needle.

11. Always use the proper needle plate. The wrong plate can cause the needle to break.

12. Do not use bent needles.

13. Do not pull or push fabric while stitching. It may deflect the needle causing it to break.

14. Switch this sewing machine off (“O”) when making any adjustment in the needle area, such as

threading the needle, changing the needle, threading the bobbin or changing the presser foot, and the

like.

15. Always unplug this sewing machine from the electrical outlet when removing covers, lubricating, or

when making any other adjustments mentioned in this owner’s manual.

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS

TABLE OF CONTENTS

SECTION I NAMES OF PARTS

Names of Parts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3–4

Detachable Extension Table . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Standard Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

SECTION II GETTING READY TO SEW

Connecting Machine to Power Supply . . . . . . . . 6

Controlling Sewing Speed. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

• To Use Start/Stop Button . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

• Speed Setting Lever . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

• To Use Foot Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Winding the Bobbin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8–9

• Removing the Bobbin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

• Winding the Bobbin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

• Inserting the Bobbin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Threading the Machine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10–11

• Threading the Machine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

• Needle Threader . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

• Drawing Up the Bobbin Thread . . . . . . . . 11

Presser Foot Lifter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Pressure Dial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

/Down Needle, Auto-Lock and Reverse

Up
Buttons

• Up/Down Needle Button . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

• Auto-Lock Button . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

• Reverse Button . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Selecting Needle and Thread . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Adjust the Top Thread Tension . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

• Choose the Correct Tension . . . . . . . . . . . 14

• Tension is too Tight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

• Tension is too Loose . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

SECTION III STRAIGHT,BUTTONHOLE

AND UTILlTY SEWING

Selecting Patterns (Ordinary Sewing) . . . . . . . . 15

• Changing the Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

• Selecting Patterns . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Language Selection Key . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Straight Seam Sewing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17–20

• Up/Down Needle Key . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

• Starting to Sew . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

• Changing Sewing Direction . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

• Finishing Sewing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

• Seam Allowance Lines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

• Turn a Square Corner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

• Sewing on Heavy Fabrics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

• Setting Stitch Length and Left/Right Needle

Position . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

• Manual Stitch Length . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

• Variable Needle Position . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

Straight Stitches . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Zigzag Stitch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

• Manual Stitch Width and Length . . . . . . . 22

Overcasting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23–24

• Zigzag Stitch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

• Multiple Zigzag . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

• Overcasting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

• Knit Stitch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

• Double Overedge Stitch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

• Overlock Stitch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

Sensor Buttonholes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25–28

• Three Types of Buttonhole . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

• Preparation for Sewing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

• To Sew . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25–27

To Alter Buttonhole Stitch Width and

•

Density . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

• Rounclend and Keyhole Buttonhole . . . . 28

Corded Buttonhole . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

Zipper Sewing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30–31

• To Snap On the Zipper Foot . . . . . . . . . . . 30

• Fabric Preparation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

• To Sew . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30–31

Blind Stitch Hemming . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

• Changing Needle Position . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

Darning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Eyelets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

Shell Stitch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

Appliqué . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

Drawn work . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

Scallop Hems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

Patchwork . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

Fagoting. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

Elastic Stitch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

Smocking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

Pintack . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

Decorative Stitch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

Cross Stitch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

Changing Needles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

To Attach and Remove Presser Feet . . . . . . . . 39

Adjusting Pattern Balance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

27

1

SECTION IV PROFESSIONAL STYLE

EMBROIDERY

Getting Ready to Sew Professional Style
Embroidery

• Interfacing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

• Selecting Needle and Thread . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

• Template . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

Using Built-in Monogramming Mode . . . . . . . 42–44

• To Raise or Lower the Feed Dog . . . . . . . . . 42

• To Attach Embroidery Foot P. . . . . . . . . . . . 42

• To Set the Fabric in the Embroidery Hoop . . 43

• Threading the Machine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

• To Attach the Embroidery Hoop to the
Machine

Sewing Built-in Letters and Numbers . . . . . . . 45–50

• To Select Letter Style . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45

• To Compose Words, Etc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46

• To Sew . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47–48

• If the Thread Breaks While Embroidering . . . 49

• Combining Letters in Script Style

(Upper & Lowercase). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

• European Letters in Block Style

(Lowercase) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

Embroidery with Optional Memory Cards . . 51–54

• To Insert the Memory Card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

• To Eject the Memory Card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

• To Set the Fabric in the Embroidery Hoop . . 52

• Embroidery with Large Pattern Memory

Card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52

• Skipping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

• Embroidery with Large Pattern Memory

Card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54

Embroidery with Blank Memory Card and Scan’n .

Sew, Scan’n SewPC (Optional Accessories) . . . . 54

When Messages Appear on Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

44

SECTION V CARE OF YOUR MACHINE

Care of Your Machine. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55–57

• Replancing the Light Bulb . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56

• Cleaning the Bobbin Holder . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56

• Exposing the Hook Race . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56

• Cleaning the Hook Race . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

• Replacing the Bobbin Holder . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58–60

2

SECTION 1 NAMES OF PARTS

Names of Parts

q

!7

!6

!5

!4

w

e

!3

r

!8

!2

!1

!0

o

t

y

u

i

q Pressure dial
w Flip-top sewing instruction panel
e Thread tension dial
r Spool holder (Large)
t Bobbin winder spindle
y Key pad
u Visual touch screen
i Speed setting lever
o Up/down needle button
!0 Auto-lock button
!1 Reverse button
!2 Start/stop button
!3 Extension table (Accessory box)
!4 Hook cover plate release button
!5 Hook cover plate
!6 Needle threader
!7 Thread cutter
!8 Screen sharpness adjustment dial*
!9 Memory key (see page 33 and 46)
@0 Clear key (see page 46)
@1 Menu key (see pages 15 and 42)
@2 Letter size key (see pages 45 and 48)
@3 Letter style key (see page 45)
@4 Space check key (see page 48 and 49)
@5 Previous page key (see page 15)
@6 Next page key (see page 15)
@7 Return key (see pages 15, 27 and 48)

@2

!9

S

@5

M

M

@3

@0

C

L

A

@6

@1

MENU

a

@7

@4

* Brightness of the screen can be changed by turning

the screen sharpness adjustment dial (located beneath
the flip-top sewing instruction panel).

3

!0

o

!1

!2

i

q

u

w

y

e

r

t

Names of Parts

Carrying handle

q

Thread take-up lever

w

Presser foot lifter

e

Buttonhole lever

r

Drop feed lever

t

Carriage

y

Power switch

u

Machine sockets

i

Card eject button

o

Memory card

!0

Memory card slot

!1

Handwheel

!2

q

w

Detachable Extension Table

For Free Arm Sewing

To remove, lift out the extension table toward you as
illustrated.

Advantages of free arm sewing:

* Avoid fabric bunching around the needle when

bar tacking to reinforce pockets, plackets and
waistlines.

* For stitching sleeves, waistbands, pants legs, or

any circular garment area.

* For darning socks or mending knees, elbows, or

areas of wear in children’s clothes.

For Flat-bed Sewing

Position the tabs on the base grooves and push down
gently.

Extension table

q
w Tabs
e Base grooves

e

4

qwer

t

yu

io

!1

!0

!2

!3

!5

!4

Standard Accessories

q C: Overedge foot

F: Satin stitch foot

w

G: Blind hem foot

e

E: Zipper foot

r
t M: Overcasting foot

P: Embroidery foot

y

R: Automatic buttonhole foot

u

Set of needles

i

Screwdriver

o
!0 Bobbins

!1 Additional spool pin
!2 Spool pin felt
!3 Lint brush
!4 Seam ripper
!5 Embroidery hoop No. 1
!6 Small spool holder
!7 Large spool holder
!8 Foot compartment
!9 Extension table (Accessory Box)
@0 Power supply cord
@1 Foot control
@2 Carrying case

!6

!7

@1

!5

@0

!8

@2

!9

5

w

r

ON

OFF

SECTION II GETTING READY TO SEW

Connecting Machine to Power Supply

Before connecting the power cord, make sure the voltage
and frequency shown on the machine conform to your
electrical power.

¡ To sew using foot control

* Turn off the power switch, and insert the foot

control plug q, machine plug w into the machine
and power supply plug e into the wall in this order.

Foot control plug

q

Power supply plug

e

Power supply cord

t

Machine plug

w

Power switch

r

Foot control

y

y

q

t

e

¡ To sew using start/stop button

* Turn off the power switch, insert only the machine

plug w into the machine and power supply plug
into the wall.

* Turn on the power switch.

Note:

* The foot control cannot be used in embroidery mode.
* If you turn off the power switch, wait 5 seconds

before turning it on again.

* After turning on the power it is not abnormal to

hear a slight humming sound coming from the
internal motor.

For Your Safety

1. While in operation, always keep your eye on the
sewing area, and do not touch any moving parts
such as the thread take-up lever, handwheel or needle.

2. Always turn off the power switch and unplug
from the power supply:
* When leaving the machine unattended.
* When attaching or removing parts.
* When cleaning the machine.

3. Do not place anything on the foot control, except
in use.

e

Operating Instructions:

The symbol “0” of a switch indicates the “off ” position
of a switch.

“For appliances with a polarized plug (one blade wider
than the other ).
To reduce the risk of electric shock, this plug is intended
to fit in a polarized outlet only one way. If the plug does
not fit fully in the outlet, reverse the plug. If it still
does not fit, contact a qualified electrician to install the
proper outlet. Do not modify the plug in any way.”

“Foot Controller Model 21371 or Model 21249 for
use with Sewing Machine Model 8100.”
(For U.S.A. market only).

6

Controlling Sewing Speed

• To Use Start/Stop Button

To use this button you must disconnect the foot
control from the machine.

This button can be used for Professional style
Embroidery. It can be also be used for ordinary
sewing, if you wish. The machine starts running
slowly for the first few stitches, then it runs at the
speed set by the speed setting lever.

* You cannot use the Start/Stop button when the

foot c ontrol is connected to the sewing machine.

• Speed Setting Lever

Sewing speed can be controlled by the speed setting
lever.

To increase sewing speed, slide the lever to the right.

To decrease sewing speed, slide the lever to the left.

• To Use Foot Control

Sewing speed can be varied by the foot control. The
harder you press on the foot control, the faster the
machine runs.

* To use the foot control, slide the speed setting

lever to “High”.

7

w
t
r

c

v

e

w

b

u

n

m

,

y

x

q

z

y

Winding the Bobbin

z Lift up the spool pin. Place the spool of thread on

the spool pin with the thread coming off the spool as
shown.
Attach the large spool holder, and press it firmly

against the spool of thread.
* The small spool holder is used with narrow or

small spools of thread.

* To use the additional spool pin, guide the upper

thread as shown in x, c

x Pass the thread under the thread guide.
c Guide the thread around the thread guide.
v Pass the thread through the thread guide.
b Thread through the hole in the bobbin from the

inside to the outside. Put the bobbin on the bobbin
winder spindle.

n Push the bobbin to the right.
m With the free end of the thread held in your hand,

depress the foot control. Stop the machine when it
has made a few turns, and cut the thread close to the
hole in the bobbin.

, Depress the foot control again. When the bobbin is

fully wound, it will stop automatically. Return the
bobbin winder to its original position by moving the
spindle to the left, and cut the thread as shown.

* The machine will not sew until the spindle is in

the left position.

Spool pin w Spool e Spool holder

q

Additional spool pin t Felt

r

Additional spool pin hole

y

Bobbin winder spindle

u

and then v.

¡ Removing the Bobbin

q

Slide the hook cover plate release button to the right,
and remove the cover plate.

Hook cover plate release button

q

Hook cover plate

w

w

8

¡ Inserting the Bobbin

z

x

q

A

w

z Place the bobbin in the bobbin holder with the

thread running off in the counterclockwise
direction.

End of thread

q

x Guide the thread into the Notch A on the front

side of the bobbin holder.
Draw the thread to the left, sliding it between the
tension spring blades.

w

Notch

A

c

v

e

B

r

c Continue to draw the thread lightly until the thread

slips into Notch B.
Pull out about 15 cm (6" ) of thread.
Notch

e

1/8

3/8

5/8

10

v Attach the hook cover plate.

Check the threading by referring to the chart shown

B

on the hook cover plate.

Threading chart

r

9

x

w

q

c

z

Threading the Machine

¡ Threading the Machine

z Raise the presser foot lifter. Press the up/down

needle button twice to raise the needle (see page 10).
Hold the upper thread as shown and pass the
thread under the thread guide q.

Guide the thread around thread guide w as
shown.

Pull the thread down and around the check spring
holder from right to left, then pull up the thread.

x Firmly draw the thread from right to left into the

eye of the take-up lever.

Then down through the lower thread guide.

c Slide the thread behind the needle bar thread guide

from the left.

Thread the needle from front to back or use the
needle threader.

Thread guide

q

Thread guide

w

z

x

cv

w

q

¡ Needle Threader

z Raise the needle to its highest position. Pull down

the needle threader knob as far as it will go.

x Turn the knob in the direction of the arrow in the

illustration, then insert Hook q into the needle
eye. Lead the thread around Guide w and under
Hook q.

c Turn the knob in the direction of the arrow in the

illustration, drawing the thread loop through the
needle.

v Pull the thread through the needle eye.

* The needle threader can be used with a #11 to

#16 needle or a Janome Blue Tip needle. Thread
size 50 to 100 should also work well.

Hook

q

Guide

w

10

¡ Drawing Up the Bobbin Thread

z

x

q

z Raise the presser foot. Hold the needle thread

lightly with your left hand.

x Press the up/down needle button twice to pick up

the bobbin thread. Draw up the needle thread
together with a loop of bobbin thread.

Up/down needle button

q

c

q

c Slide 10 cm (4" ) of both threads to the back under

the presser foot.

Presser Foot Lifter

The presser foot lifter raises and lowers your presser
foot. You can raise it about 1/4" higher than the
normal up position for easy removal of the presser foot
or to help you place heavy fabric under it.

Presser foot lifter

q

11

q

w

w
e

r

Pressure Dial

The pressure dial should be set at “ 3 ” for regular
sewing. Reduce the pressure to “ 2 ” for appliqué, cut
work, drawn work, basting and embroidery.
Set the pressure to “ 1 ” when sewing chiffon, lace,
organdy and other fine fabrics. Velours and knits with
a lot of stretch may also require a “ 1 ” setting.
Align the number on the dial with the setting mark.

Setting mark

q

Up/Down Needle, Auto-Lock and Reverse Buttons

¡ Up/Down Needle Button

When this button is pressed, the needle bar goes down
and stops in the lowest position. When pressed again,
the needle bar goes up and stops in the highest
position.

Up/down needle button

w

¡ Auto-Lock Button

e

r

When stitches , , or are selected, the
machine will immediately sew locking stitches and
automatically stop when the auto-lock button is
pressed. When sewing all other stitches, the machine
will sew locking stitches at the end of the current
pattern and automatically stop.

Auto-lock button

e

¡ Reverse Button

When stitches , , or are selected, the
machine will sew in reverse while the reverse button
is pressed. If you press the reverse button when
sewing all other stitches, the machine will
immediately sew locking stitches and automatically
stop.

Reverse button

r

12

Selecting Needle and Thread

For general sewing use needle size 11 or 14. A fine thread and needle should be used for sewing lightweight
fabrics, so the fabric will not be marred. Heavy fabrics require a needle large enough to pierce the fabric
without fraying the needle thread.

In the needle case you will find Two size 14s, two size 11s and one blue tipped needle. Use a blue tipped needle
to eliminate skipped stitches when sewing knits and synthetic fabrics.

There are also specialty needles available from your sewing machine dealer. A denim needle with a sharp tip is used
to effectively pierce dense fabrics such as denim and canvas. For topstitching, a special topstitching needle with a
larger eye accommodates heavier weight thread. Leather needles punch small holes in leather and suede allowing
the thread to follow through the hole.

Check your needles frequently for rough or blunt tips. Snags and runs in knits, fine silks and silk-like fabrics are
permanent and are often caused by damaged needles.

Always purchase a good quality thread. It should be strong, smooth and consistent in thickness.

WEIGHT

Very Light

Light

Medium

FABRIC

Chiffon, Georgette, Fine Lace, Organdy, Organdy
Net, Tulle

Batiste, Voile, Lawn, Pure Silk, Crepe de Chine,
Sheer Crepe, Chambray, Handkerchief Linen,
Gingham, Challis, Percale, Wool Crepe, Peau de
Soie, Taffeta, Satin, Silk Surah, Satin-backed
Crepe, Qiana

Single Knits, Jersey, Swimwear, Tricot

Leather, Suede

Flannel, Velour, Velvet, Muslin, Velveteen, Poplin,
Corduroy, Broadcloth, Linen, Chintz, Gabardine,
Felt, Terry, Burlap, Quilted Fabrics

Double Knits, (synthetic and natural) Stretch
Velour,
Stretch Terry,
Sweater Knits

TYPE OF NEEDLE

Universal
Ball Point

Blue Tipped Needle
Universal

Blue Tipped Needle
Ball Point

Wedge Point Leather
Needle

Universal

Ball Point

NEEDLE
SIZE

9 (65)
9 (65)

11 (75)
11 (75)
12 (80)

11 (75)
11 (75)

11 (75)

14 (90)

14 (90)

Heavy

Very Heavy

Leather, Vinyl, Suede

Denim, Sailcloth, Ticking

Double Faced Wool, Heavy Coating, Fake Fur,
Drapery Fabrics

Leather, Suede

Canvas, Duck, Upholstery Fabrics

Topstitching for Special Finish

Wedge Point Leather
Needle

Denim Needle

Universal

Wedge Point Leather
Needle

Universal

Topstitching Needle

14 (90)

16 (100)

16 (100)

16 (100)

18 (110)

11 (75)
14 (90)

13

t

q

w

5

e

Adjust the Top Thread Tension

¡ Choose the Correct Tension

For Straight Stitch:
The ideal straight stitch will have threads locked between

r

4

y

3

the two layers of fabric, as shown left (magnified to show
detail).
If you look at the top and bottom of the seam, you will
notice that there are no gaps; that each stitch is smooth
and even.
When adjusting top thread tension, the higher the
number, the tighter the top thread.
Results depend on;

stiffness and thickness of the fabric

*

number of fabric layers

*

type of stitch

*

Needle thread (Top thread)

q

Bobbin thread (Bottom thread)

w

Right side of fabric

e

Wrong side of fabric

r

To loosen

t

To tighten

y

e

¡ Tension is too tight

w

The bobbin thread shows through on the right side of
the fabric and it will feel bumpy.
Turn the dial to the left to loosen the top thread
tension.

Right side of fabric

q

4

5

3

w

q

Wrong side of fabric

w

To loosen

e

¡ Tension is too loose

The top thread shows through on the wrong side of the
fabric and it will feel bumpy.
Turn the dial to the right to tighten the top thread
tension.

q

4

5

e

3

Right side of fabric

q

Wrong side of fabric

w

To tighten

e

14

z

SECTION III STRAIGHT,BUTTONHOLE AND UTILlTY SEWING

Pattern Selection (Utility Stitches)

M

L

M

S

MENU

C

A

a

• How to scroll the display screen

z When you turn the power switch the MENU

screen is displayed.

x

c

d

d

A

B

C

D

E

d

x Press key.

The display screen shows A .

c You can get the stitch patterns from B to

display screen as shown, when you turn on the
power switch.

Press the key to scroll through screens B to J.

(To return to a previous screen, press the key.)

* Press the or key to go back to the

MENU

main MENU screen.

J

F

G

H

I

J

15

q

w

er

¡ Selecting Patterns

Press the center of a desired pattern on the screen.

Appropriate top thread tension is displayed.

q

A suitable foot is displayed.

w

Stitch Width and Length Key :

e

When the key is pressed, the stitch width
and length can be adjusted (see page 22).

Up/Down Needle Key :

r

When this key is pressed, the needle bar alternates
between up and down position (see page 17).

Language Selection Key

* Press key.

q

* Select the language you need.
* Press the key to memorize the language

M

selected.

The screen will automatically be returned to the
main menu.

q Language selection key

Note:

M

L

A

M

S

MENU

C

a

Regardless of which language is selected on the
machine, any message stored in the Memory Card
is shown on the visual touch screen in English only.

16

/

/

Straight Seam Sewing

¡ Up/Down Needle Key :

Pressing this key toggles back and forth between the
needle up and needle down display.

Needle Up

If you want the needle to be in the up position after
sewing a seam, press this key until the needle up
display appears:

Needle Down

/

/

w

q

If you would like the needle to end in the down
position after sewing a seam, press this key until the
needle down display appears:

¡ Starting to Sew

Raise the presser foot and position the fabric next to
a seam guide line on the needle plate (see page 19).
Lower the needle to the point where you want to
start.
Lower the presser foot and pull the threads toward
the back. Depress the foot control. Gently guide
the fabric along the seam guide line letting the fabric
feed naturally.

¡ Changing Sewing Direction

Stop the machine and bring the needle down into
the fabric by pressing the up/down needle button.
Raise the presser foot.
Pivot the fabric around the needle to change sewing
direction as desired. Lower the presser foot.

Up/down needle button

q

Presser foot lifter

w

17

e

¡ Finishing Sewing

To fasten the ends of seams, press the reverse button
and sew several reverse stitches.

* When pattern is selected, reverse stitches are

sewn automatically at the beginning of the seam,
and forward again.
Raise the presser foot. Remove the fabric, draw the
threads to the back and cut using the thread cutter.
The threads are cut the proper length for starting
the next seam.

Reverse button

q

Thread cutter

w

Fabric

e

w

q

18

e

q

w

¡ Seam Allowance Lines

The seam guides on the needle plate and hook cover
plate help you measure seam width.

* The number indicates the distance between the

middle needle position and the seam allowance
line.

Millimeters Inches

q

r

5/8

6/8

15

20

Marks on
needle plate

q Middle needle position

4/8"

5/8"

w Edge of fabric

6/8"2015

e Needle plate guide lines

• Turn a Square Corner

To turn a square corner 1.6 cm aprox. (5/8˝) from the

w

fabric edge.

1. Stop stitching and lower the needle by pressing the
up/down needle button when the fabric edge facing
you lines up with the cornering guide as shown.

e

2. Raise the presser foot and turn the fabric to line the
edge with the 1.6 cm (5/8˝) seam guide.

3. Lower the presser foot and begin stitching in the
new direction.

q Cornering guide
w Up/down needle button
e Presser foot lifter

q

w

¡ Sewing on Heavy Fabrics

Pressing the black button on Foot A (before lowering)
locks it in a horizontal position. This ensures even
feeding at the beginning of seams and helps when
sewing many layers of fabric. When you reach a point
of increased thickness, lower the needle and raise the
foot. Press in the black button, then lower the foot and
continue sewing. It releases automatically after a few
stitches.

Fabric

q

A: Zigzag foot

w

19

Setting Stitch Length and Left/Right Needle
Position

¡ Manual Stitch Length

* These settings apply only to “straight” stitch patterns

1 through 5.
Press the key to adjust the stitch length
manually. Use the or keys (on the right)
to adjust the stitch length. To decrease, press the
key. To increase, press the key.
The pre-programmed stitch length setting will be
suitable for most of your sewing needs. However,
you can change these settings to accommodate
different fabric characteristics or achieve a desired
effect. Hold down the or key until you
reach the setting you desire.

* The reverse stitch length cannot be set longer than

2.5 mm (3/32" ).
Press the key again to return the visual touch
screen to the former display.

0.0

3.5

7.0

qwe

¡ Variable Needle Position

When stitch patterns 1 through 5 are selected (see
bottom of box on left), you can adjust the left/right
needle position. When the key is pressed, the
needle position will be moved to the left.
When the key is pressed, the needle position will
be moved to the right.

Left

q

Middle

w

Right

e

20

q

w

e

r

Straight Stitches

Basic Straight Stitch

This stitch can be used for sewing regular seams,
zippers, pintucking and rolled hems.

Selected stitch

q

Thread tension

w

Straight Stitch (Left)

This stitch can be used for regular seams, zippers,
topstitching, etc.

Lock-A-Matic

The machine will automatically sew four stitches
forward, four stitches in reverse, then continue sewing
forward. When you reach the end of the fabric, press
the reverse button once. The machine will sew four
reverse stitches, four forward stitches, then stop sewing
automatically.

e A: Zigsag foot
r E: Zipper foot

Locking Stitch

Lower the needle close to the front edge of the fabric.
The machine will sew several locking stitches in place
and continue sewing forward. If you press the Auto­Lock button at the end of the seam, the machine will
sew several locking stitches in place, then stop sewing
automatically.

Triple Stretch Stitch

This strong, durable stitch is recommended where
both elasticity and strength are needed to insure
comfort and durability. Use it to reinforce areas such
as crotch and armhole seams. Also use when
constructing items such as backpacks for extra
strength.

Stretch Stitch

This stitch is a narrow stretch stitch designed to
eliminate puckering on knit fabrics and bias seams,
while permitting the seam to be pressed completely
flat. The stitch can also be used to simultaneously
seam and overcast when sewing on tricot and chiffons
for a narrow, almost invisible seam or seam finish.

21

Zigzag Stitch

A simple zigzag stitch is widely used for overcasting,
appliqué, etc.

* Stabilize with interfacing on stretch fabric.

¡ Manual Stitch Width and Length

z Press the key to change the stitch width and

length manually.

x Pre-programmed stitch settings

/

d

c

wreq

/

x

z

/

y

/

c When the or key is pressed, the width

and the length will be changed accordingly.

Narrower width (smaller number)

q

Wider width (larger number)

w

Denser stitch (smaller number)

e

Coarser stitch (larger number)

r

Width

t

Length

y

22

t

q

q

Overcasting

¡ Zigzag Stitch

This stitch can be used on most woven fabrics.
It's the fastest way to finish an edge, leaving it neat and
flat.
A dense zigzag can also be used for appliqué.

C: Overedge foot

q

Set the stitch width from 0.5 cm (3/16˝) to 0.7cm
(9/32˝) when the overedge foot C is used to prevent

needle breakage or damaging the foot

¡ Multiple Zigzag

This stitch is used to finish the seam allowance on
synthetics and other fabrics that tend to pucker.

The stitch is excellent for darning and mending tears.

q

Place your fabric to allow a 1.5 cm (5/8˝) seam.
Trim the seam allowance after sewing.

Note:

Be careful not to cut the stitches.

A: Zigzag foot

q

¡ Overcasting

This stitch can be used to simultaneously stitch and
overcast seams in one step. Use this stitch when you do
not need to press seams open flat. Test the stitch on the
actual fabric for best results.

C: Overedge foot

q

Guide

w

Edge of fabric

e

e

Set the stitch width at 5.0 cm (3/16˝) to 7.0 cm (9/32˝)
for overcasting.

w

23

q

q

• Knit Stitch

This knit stitch is ideal for sewing swimwear and
stretch velour because it provides the greatest amount
of elasticity and strength.

Place your fabric to allow a 1.5 cm (5/8˝) seam.

Trim the seam allowance after sewing.

Note:

Be careful not to cut the stitches.

A: Zigzag foot

q

• Double Overedge Stitch

This stitch is an excellent stitch for fabrics that tend to
fray extensively such as lines and gabardines. Two rows
of zigzag stitches are simultaneously sewn over the edge
to insure that your seams will not ravel.

C: Overedge foot

q

24

w

q

• Overlock Stitch

This stitch finishes the edges of your seams similar to a
commercial overlocking machine for a professional
look.

Ajust the thread tension dial so that the upper and
lower threads meet at the edge of the fabric.

M: Overcasting foot

q
w Pin

Sensor Buttonholes

q

w

e

q

w

¡ Three types of Buttonhole

Square Buttonhole

q

For buttonholes on shirts and blouses.
Stitch patterns 18 and 19 are intended to be used on
stretch fabrics.

Rounded Buttonhole

w

For buttonholes on shirts and blouses made of fine
fabric.

Keyhole Buttonhole

e

For buttonholes on jackets.

¡ Preparation for Sewing

Attach the automatic buttonhole foot R. Make sure the
groove on the holder catches the pin on the foot, when
lowering the presser foot.

Groove

q

Pin

w

z

q

¡ To Sew

z The size of buttonhole is automatically set by

placing the button in the rear of the automatic
buttonhole foot.
The button holder on the foot takes a button up to

2.5 cm (1" ) in diameter.
Alter the buttonhole width to match the material
and thread (see page 27).
Make a test buttonhole on an extra piece of the
fabric to check your settings.
Use interfacing on stretch fabrics.

Buttonhole double sewing key :

q

If you want to sew double the stitching on a
buttonhole, press this key before selecting a buttonhole

pattern.

25

x

w

Sensor Buttonhole, cont'd

x Pull the button holder to the back, and place the

button in it. Push it together tightly on the
button.

Button holder

w

c

v

b

!1

e

t

r

!3 !4

oi

u

y

!0

!2

!5

c Pull the buttonhole lever downward as far as it

will go.

Buttonhole lever

e

v Draw both threads to the left under the foot.

Insert the garment under the foot, and lower the
needle at the starting point. Then lower the
automatic buttonhole foot.

Mark

r

Needle thread

t

Bobbin thread

y

Starting point

u

b Depress the foot control until the machine stops

by itself.
* The buttonhole will be sewn automatically; the

front bartack and left row first, then the right
row and back bartack. The machine will stop
automatically when the buttonhole is completed.

Remove the fabric and place a pin just before the
bartack at each end to prevent accidentally cutting
bartacks. Cut the opening with the seam ripper.

26

When finished, push the buttonhole lever upward
as far as it will go.

Step 1

i

Step 2

o

Step 3

!0

Square buttonhole

!1

Keyhole buttonhole

!2

Pin

!3

Seam ripper

!4

Eyelet puncher

!5

q

Sensor Buttonhole, cont'd

If the button is extremely thick, make a test

R

buttonhole. If it is difficult to fit the button through
the test buttonhole, you can lengthen the buttonhole
by pulling the carriage on the foot back a little extra.
The length of the hole will be automatically increased.

Gap

q

w

e

Slider

w

There shoud be no gap.

e

Spring holder

r

r

z

x

q

w

e

r

¡ To Alter Buttonhole Stitch Width and Density

z Press the key.

x The pre-programmed stitch setting are shown on

the screen.

Narrow

q

Wide

w

Dense

e

Coarse

r

c

Return Key :

M

L

M

S

MENU

C

A

a

c Press the key to return the display to the

former one.

27

q

• Roundend and Keyhole Buttonholes

q

R: Automatic buttonhole foot

q

w

q

q

0.2 ~ 0.8

w

w

• To sew:

For sewing, use the same procedure as Sensor
Buttonhole.

q Starting point
w Bartack

• Adjust the Stitch Width and Density:

Each time “ – ” or “ + ” is pressed, the width and
length will be changed.

q

Width 2.5

w Width 5.5

You can change the stitch width between 2.5 and 5.5
and the stitch length between 0.2 and 0.8 for pattern

16.

28

er

0.2 ~ 0.8

Width 5.5

e
r Width 7.0

You can change the stitch width between 5.5 and 7.0
and the stitch length between 0.2 and 0.8 for pattern

17.

z

e

q

r

w

Corded Buttonhole

z For sewing, use the same procedure as when the

pattern is selected (see pages 25 – 27).

* Set the stitch width to match the thickness of the

cord used.
With the buttonhole foot raised, hook the filler
cord on the spur at the back of the buttonhole foot.
Bring the ends toward you under the buttonhole
foot, clearing the front end.
Hook the filler cord into the forks on the front of
automatic buttonhole foot R to hold them tight.
Lower the needle into the garment where the
buttonhole will start and lower the foot.

Tension

q

BH foot

w

Needle thread

e

Bobbin thread

r

x

t

x Depress the foot control gently and sew the

buttonhole. Each side of the buttonhole and the
bartacks will be sewn over the cord.
Remove the fabric from the machine and cut the
sewing threads only.
Pull the left end of the filler cord to tighten it.
Thread the end through a darning needle, draw to
the wrong side of the fabric and cut.
* To cut the buttonhole opening, refer to the

instructions on page 26.

Spur

t

29

w

e

r

q

t

Zipper Sewing

Choose Stitch Pattern 1 and attach Foot E.

E: Zipper foot

q

¡ To Snap On the Zipper Foot

Fit the pin on the zipper foot into the groove on the

foot holder.

* To sew the left side of the zipper, attach the zipper

foot on the right-hand side.

* To sew the right side of the zipper, attach the zipper

foot on the left-hand side.

Groove

w

Pin

e

When the left side is sewn.

r

When the right side is sewn.

t

30

z

e

r

q

w

w

q

y

t

2

!0

t

r

e

!3

o

!2

y

!1

u

i

u

¡ Fabric Preparation

Add 1 cm to the zipper size. This is the overall

opening size.

q Right side of fabric
w Opening size
e Zipper size
r 1 cm

t End of opening
y Slider
u Zipper teeth
i Zipper tape

Place right sides of fabric together and sew to the end
of the zipper opening. Reverse stitch to lock the
stitches.
Manually increase the stitch length to 4.5 and sew the
zipper opening.

4.5(Stitch Length)

o

End of opening

!0

Reverse stitch

!1

¡ To Sew

Straight Stitch

!2

2 cm (3/4˝)

!3

z Fold back the left seam allowance. Turn under the

right seam allowance to form a 0.2 to 0.3 cm

(1/8"
fold. Place the zipper teeth next to this fold and
pin in place.
Attach the zipper foot with the pin on the right
hand side.
Lower the zipper foot on the top side at the bottom
of the zipper so that the needle pierces the fabric
next to the fold and the zipper tape.

Fold

q

0.3 cm (1/8˝)

w

Stitch line

e

End of opening

r

Opening size

t

Lower fabric

y

Wrong side of fabric

u

)

x

q

w

Zipper Sewing, cont'd

x Sew through all layers next to fold. Stop just

before the zipper foot reaches the slider on the
zipper tape. Lower the needle slightly into the
fabric. Raise the zipper foot and open the zipper.
Lower the foot and stitch the remainder of the seam.

Slider

q

5 cm (2˝)

w

c

v

e

r

t

t

t

r

t

y

c Close the zipper and spread the fabric flat with the

right side facing up. Baste the opened fabric and
zipper tape together.

Wrong side of upper fabric

e

Basting stitch

r

Right side of fabric

t

Zipper tape

y

v Move the zipper foot to the left pin.

Guide the edge of foot along the zipper teeth and
stitch through the garment and zipper tape.
Stop about 5 cm (2" ) from the top of the zipper.

b

t

t

b Lower the needle slightly into the fabric, raise the

foot, remove the basting stitches and open the
zipper. Lower the foot and stitch the remainder of
the seam, making sure the fold is even.

31

or

w

w

q

e

r

Blind Stitch Hemming

Choose Stitch Pattern or and attach Foot G.

G: Blind hem foot

q

Position the fabric so that the folded edge comes to the

left side of guide. Lower the presser foot.

Adjust the position of needle swing with the stitch
width key so that the needle just pierces the folded
edge of the fabric when the needle comes over to the
left side.

Sew guiding the folded edge along the guide.

For a professional looking hem, fold the fabric
reducing the width to about 0.2 cm(1/8" ).

As you sew, the right hand stitch will fall off the fabric
edge forming a chain stitch.

Wrong side of fabric

w

0.4–0.7 cm (5/32˝–1/4˝)

e

Guide

r

z

¡ Changing Needle Position

z Press the key.

The needle position is moved to the right.

q

The needle position is moved to the left.

w

x

M

L

M

S

MENU

C

A

a

x Press the key to return the display to the

former one.

“ 0.6 ” on the visual touch screen indicates the distance
between the guide and the needle drop point.

Guide

e

* When you choose patterns or the zigzag

e

width cannot be changed. Instead, the needle drop
position moves left and right, as shown.

wq

32

Darning

q

w

t

y

zxc

e

r

u

,

i

,

vb

!0 !5

o

q R: Automatic buttonhole foot

z Pull the button holder to the rear.
x Place the garment under the presser foot. Press the

up/down needle button key twice to pull up the
bobbin thread.
Remove the fabric to the left to draw both threads
under the presser foot and put the fabric under the
foot again.

c Place the needle where you would like to sew and

lower the foot. Press the foot control.
The machine will lock stitch, sew 16 rows of
darning, lock stitch and stop automatically.
The machine will lock stitch, sew 16 rows of
darning, lock stitch again and stop automatically.
* The size of darn cycle is variable. However, the

maximum stitch length is 2 cm (3/4˝) and the
maximum stitch width is 0.7 cm (1/4˝).

w

Button holder

e Foot hole
r Starting point for darning
t 2 cm (3/4˝)
y 0.7 cm (1/4˝)

[For darning a length of less than 2cm (3/4˝),]

v For darning a length of less than 2 cm.

First stop the machine after sewing the desired
length and then press the reverse button. The
required length has now been determined. Now,
restart the machine and continue sewing until the
machine stops automatically.

b Turn the fabric to change the sewing direction for

repeat sewing from step 1 to 3.

u

Reverse key

i Length required
o Starting point for darning

[To memorize darning stitches:]

When you press the memory key after step 3 and 4
you can repeatedly sew the samesize darn to repair a
side rip.

[To adjust the balance of the darning stitches.]

If one side of the darn is higher or lower than the
other, make them even by pressing the “ – ” or “ + ”
key between 1 and 5.

,

,

!1 !2 !3 !4

!0

Stitch width, Stitch length key

!1 When the left side is lower
!2 Select “ 1 ” or “ 2 ” to balance the stitches.
!3 When the right side is lower
!4 Select “ 4 ” or “ 5 ” to balance the stitches.
!5 This indication will be shown when you press the

Memory key.

33

w

q

q

Eyelets

The pattern can be used to sew a small eyelet for
belts passing cord, etc.

Remove the fabric and cut the small eye with the seam
ripper, pointed scissors or awl.

F: Satin stitch foot

q
w Eyelets

Shell Stitch

q F: Satin stitch foot

* Use a lightweight fabric such as tricot.

Fold and stitch on the bias.
Set the stitch width and length as you desire.
You may need to tighten the top thread slightly.
Allow the needle to just clear the folded edge of the
fabric when it zigzags.

2

w

If you sew rows of shell stitches, space the rows 1.5 cm
(5/8" ) apart.
You can sew shell stitches on knits or soft silky wovens
in any direction.

Appliqué

q

F: Satin stitch foot

q

Stitch patterns 24, 25 and 26 can be used for appliqué.
In this type of appliqué raw edges are folded under.
To finish the raw edge, first cut the appliqué design
out of cardboard.
Fuse a lightweight interfacing to the wrong side of the
fabric, then cut the fabric slightly larger than the
cardboard.

1

3

e

Fold the fabric around the cardboard and press to
form a perfectly shaped design.
Tape the appliqué in place and sew, guiding the slit on
Foot F next to the finished edge of the appliqué.

Pressure dial

w

Slit

e

34

q

Drawn work

q F: Satin stitch foot

w

1

2

3

w Pressure dial “ 2 ”

* You can also use stitch pattern .

z

x

c

z Pull out one or two threads beside the both sides

where you would like to sew the drawn work, as
shown.

x Select the pattern . Sew down the left side

where you pulled out the threads.

c Select the pattern . Sew down the right side.

v

v After both sides are sewn where you pulled out

threads, pull out all the remaining threads from the
fabric, as shown.

* After sewing, reset the pressure dial to “ 3 ”.

35

q

Scallop Hems

q A: Zigzag foot
w Wrong side of fabric
e Trimming

Fold fabric with the right sides together. Sew scallops
1cm (3/8˝) from folded edge.

or

w

t

r

w

t

e

Trim close to stitching leaving 0.3 cm (1/8˝) seam
allowance.

Clip seams as shown or trim with pinking shears.
Turn the fabric to right side and press.

• Edging

A: Zigzag foot

r

Some of the craft patterns can be used to attractively
finish the edges of collars, pockets and place mats.

To edge a collar, place interfacing between upper and
under collar and sew the pattern on the seam line.

After sewing, trim fabric close to stitching, taking care
not to cut thread.

Right side of fabric

t

36

w

q

w

Patchwork

q F: Satin stitch foot

Sew seam and press seam allowance open. Sew pattern
stitch on right side of garment centering over the seam
line.

Right side of fabric

w

q

Fagoting

q F: Satin stitch foot

Fold under 1.5 cm (1/2˝) on each fabric edge and
press.

Pin the two edges to paper 0.3 cm (1/8˝) apart.
Sew slowly guiding the fabric so the needle catches the

folded edge on each side.

Elastic Stitch

q

q F: Satin stitch foot

Choose this stitch to attach elastic to garments.
Mark the elastic into quarters and match these to the

center front, center back and side seams.

w

Place the middle of the elastic under the center of the
presser foot and stitch into place, making sure the
elastic is evenly distributed.

Smocking

q

q F: Satin stitch foot

With the manual stitch length at 4.5, sew straight lines
1 cm (3/8˝) apart, across the area to be smocked.

A looser needle thread tension will make gathering
easier. Knot the threads along one edge.

Pull the bobbin threads and distribute the gathers
evenly.

Secure the threads at the other end.
Reduce the tension and pressure if necessary and sew

pattern stitches between the straight seams.
Pull out the gathering stitches.

1.0 cm (3/8˝)

w

37

Pintucking

q

w

e

zx

q G: Blind hem foot

z Fold the fabric with wrong side together. Position

the folded edge next to the fabric guide.

Lower the presser foot. Sew the folded edge,
guiding it along the fabric guide.

x Press the pintucks to one side.

Guide

w

e Folded fabric

Decorative Stitch

q

q F: Satin stitch foot

For a delicate appearance on fabric such as chiffon, use
a single layer with a teat-away backing if necessary.

q

* You can use stitch patterns 43 through 63 for

decorative stitching.

Cross Stitch

q F: Satin stitch foot

You’ll love the beautiful designs you can sew with this
craft stitch pattern, and in half the time it would take
if embroidered by hand.

38

z

c

q

e

x

w

Changing Needles

z Raise the needle by pressing the up/down needle

button and lower the presser foot.
Turn off the power switch.
Loosen the needle clamp screw by turning it
counterclockwise.

x Remove the needle from the clamp.

Insert the new needle into the needle clamp with
the flat side to the rear.
When inserting the needle into the clamp, push it
up as far as it will go and tighten the clamp screw
firmly.

c To find a good needle, put the flat side of the

needle onto something flat (a needle plate, glass,
etc.).
The gap between the needle and the flat surface
should be consistent. Never use a bent or blunt
needle.

Needle clamp screw

q

Pin

w

Needle clamp

e

q

w

e

To Attach and Remove Presser Feet

Press the red button on the back of the foot holder.
The presser foot will drop off.
Place the selected presser foot so the pin on the foot
lies just under the groove of the foot holder. Lower
the presser bar to lock the foot in place.

Red button

q

Groove

w

Pin

e

39

w

e

q

Adjusting Pattern Balance

If stretch stitch patterns are uneven when you sew on a
particular fabric, adjust them with the feed balancing
dial.

Feed balancing dial

q

Standard mark

w

Setting mark

e

r

xz

• To Adjust distorted patterns

z If patterns are compressed, correct by turning the

dial in the direction of “ + ”.

x If patterns are drawn out, correct by turning the

dial in the direction of “ – ”.

Example: Stitch pattern .

r

40

SECTION IV PROFESSIONAL STYLE EMBROIDERY

Getting Ready to Sew Professional Style
Embroidery

¡ Interfacing

Interfacing material for embroidery is available in
adhesive type (iron-on) and non-adhesive type.
Interfacing should be attached to the wrong side of
fabric. (More than one layer may be required).
The non-adhesive type should be used with fabric
which cannot be ironed or on sections which are
difficult to iron. For both types, cut the interfacing
larger than the embroidery frame and set it on the
frame so that the entire piece is fastened in it.
* Note that the ironing temperature varies with the

kind of adhesive interfacing.

Selection of interfacing

To obtain perfectly formed letters, it is important to
use the correct interfacing:

* Adhesive type (iron-on) Use for stretch fabric

* Non-adhesive type Use for firm fabrics

. . . .

(such as knit), thin
fabric and shrinkable
fabric.

. . . . . . . . .

and fabrics which
cannot be ironed.

e

q

w

Note:

In embroidery sewing, the foot control cannot be
used. Please use the start/stop button.

¡ Selecting Needle and Thread

WEIGHT
OF
FABRIC

Light
Medium

Heavy

TYPE OF THREAD

Size 50
Machine Embroidery
Thread
(Janome Embroidery
Thread)

Size 50 to 100
Synthetic

TYPE
OF
NEEDLE

Universal
Ball Point
Blue Tipped
Needle

Universal

NEEDLE
SIZE

11 (75)

14 (90)

* For embroidery sewing, we recommend Janome

embroidery bobbin thread.

¡ Template

The illustration shows various strating points.

Starting point for optional Memory Card #2, #3, etc.

q

Starting point for optional Memory Card #102, #103,

w

etc.
Starting point for Monogramming (see page 43).

e

Thumb hole (see page 43).

r

r

41

z

q

Using Built-in Monogramming Mode

z Turn on the power switch:

When the built-in monogramming mode key is
selected, the carriage will move.

* Make sure nothing is blocking it.

* Before turning off the power switch and covering the

machine, be sure to return to the first menu. This
will return the carriage to its home position.

* Avoid turning the handwheel by hand while the

carriage is moving.

Carriage

q

x

c

x A setting reminder message is displayed for three

seconds. Suitable thread tension level is indicated.
Adjust the top thread tension by turning the
thread tension dial, if necessary. Make sure that the
feed dog is in lowered position.
Attach the embroidery foot P.

Thread tension dial

w

2



3

w

1

Clothsetter Key

e

c Alphabet (block style or script style) can be

selected.

The clothsetter key is for using the
clothsetter (optional).

Press the menu key to return to the menu screen.

Clothsetter Key :

e

r

Raised position

r

Lowered position

t

42

t

¡ To Attach Embroidery Foot P

zx

z Raise the presser foot lifter, loosen the screw and

remove the foot holder .

1

2

3

Attach Embroidery Foot P and securely tighten the
screw with the screwdriver.

x Set the pressure dial at “2”.

Note: After the completion of sewing, return the
dial position “3”.

z

q

ABC

w

¡ To set the Fabric in the Embroidery Hoop

z First, mark the embroidering position on the

fabric with tailor's chalk.

Fabric

q

Reference line

w

x

c

v

y

i

o

e

!0

t

u

r

u

x Second, loosen the tightening screw on the outer

hoop, lay the fabric on it, and press the fabric
down with the inner hoop.

Inner hoop

e

Right side of fabric

r

(Interfacing)

t

Outer hoop

y

Hoop tightening screw

u

c Third, tighten the hoop screw with your fingers.

v Put the template on the fabric, and match the

reference lines on the template and fabric.

Reference lines on the template

i

Reference line on the fabric

o

Template

!0

b

n

Ｒ

Ｌ

b Press them all into the outer hoop taking care that

the reference lines on the fabric and template do
not move away from each other.

n Take out the template by putting your finger in

the thumb hole.

Take off hole (thumb hole)

!1

!1

43

¡ Threading the Machine

q

w

e

q

For threading, refer to the description of ordinary
sewing (see page 10 ).

Pass the needle thread through the hole in the
Embroidery Foot P in the downward direction, and
guide the thread around the thread holder from the
front side. (Leave 2 to 3 cm [1" ] hanging.)

Thread cutter

q

Needle thread

w

Bobbin thread

e

¡ To Attach the Embroidery Hoop to the Machine

Turn the knob so it is parallel with the hoop, and set it
on the carriage.

Attach the outer hoop by fitting the prong into the
carriage, and turning the knob clockwise.

Knob

q

Carriage

w

w

44

Sewing Built-in Letters and Numbers

A

a

L

M

S

¡ To Select Letter Style (Block Style Letters)

z Press the key to select block style letters.

z

q

w

The number next to the symbol indicates which

q

number embroidery hoop may be used.
(Embroidery Hoop 3 is optional.)

Color select key: this (see page 47) key to change

w

the needle thread color.

d

x

d

x When the key is pressed, European letters

(block style) can be selected.

The key returns to the previous screen.

Letter StyleKey :

A

c

a

c The key alternately selects uppercase or

A

a

lowercase each time pressed.

¡ To Select Letter Style (Script Style Letters)

z Press the key to select script style letters.

z

d

x

d

L

M

S

x When the key is pressed, European letters

(script type) can be selected.

Letter Size Key :

L

The size key changes the overall size of letters

M

S

and numbers each time pressed.

L–30 mm
M–18 mm
S–10 mm

45

¡ To Compose Words, Etc.

Example: Block Style “ E-X ”

z Select “ E ” by pressing the key 5 times.

z

x

c

v

b

d

d

d

d

d

M

M

q

x Press the memory key once.

M

“ E ” is memorized and the cursor moves to the
next position.

c Select “ ” by pressing the key twice.

v Press the memory key once.

_

M

b Select “ X ” by pressing the key four times.

n Press the memory key once.

Cursor

q

M

n

M

Memory Key :

M

When this key is pressed after selecting a character,

M

L

A

M

S

C

MENU

a

the character will be memorized as many times as
the key is pressed.
When the key is pressed after selecting another
character, that character will be memorized after
the previous one. (Up to 20 characters can be
memorized.)

Clear Key :

M

L

A

M

S

C

MENU

a

If a wrong character is memorized, pressing this key
will immediately clear it (like a “ backspace ” key).

C

46

w

q

¡ To Sew

Lower the presser foot, press the start/stop button and
sew 5 or 6 stitches.

Then, press the start/stop button again to stop the
machine.

Raise the presser foot, cut off the extra thread at the
starting point close to the beginning and lower the
presser foot.

Start/stop button

q

Cut the extra thread.

w

q

w

d

d

Color Select Key:

Press the key when you want to change the
color of each letter.

This key is released when pressed again.
The machine stops automatically after “ each letter ” is

sewn allowing you to replace the thread with a
different colored one.

Sewing sample

q

Cut the connecting thread.

w

47

Space Check Key :

d

M

L

M

S

MENU

C

A

a

( To Sew a Second Row of Letters/Numbers )

Press the space check key .

Press one of the arrow keys to move to the
desired position. The frame will move.

* Press the key to return to the previous display.

* Press the start/stop button to start sewing after

setting the sewing position.

* The space check key can also be used if the needle

drop position is incorrect.

q

Sewing sample

q

Letter Size Key :

L

M

S

( To Change the Size of Letters/Numbers )

Example: E-X

L

Press the size key before memorizing the letters

M

S

and numbers. The character height is displayed in both

d

M

L

M

S

MENU

C

A

a

millimeters and inches.

Sewing sample

q

q

L

M

S

M

S

M

S

10 mm

L

18 mm

L

30 mm

/

10 mm

/

48

¡ If the Thread Breaks While Embroidering

Stop the machine by pressing the start/stop button.

M

L

M

S

MENU

C

A

a

Raise the presser foot.

Rethread the machine.
Guide the thread end around the thread holder of

the thread cutter from the front side.

Press the key.
Press the key.
Lower the presser foot, and press the start/stop

button. (Don’t cut off the extra thread yet.)

Upon completion of sewing, remove the embroidery
hoop and secure the loose ends of the thread tail
where the break occurred.

Beginning Key :

If you run out of thread in the middle of sewing a
word (or some other pattern), and you want to start
sewing again from the beginning, press the
beginning key .

Frame Return Key :

This key is used to resume sewing where the thread
has been broken. By pressing this key, you can move
the hoop to the point where the thread broke.
* The hoop is moved backward 10 stitches each time

the key is pressed.

Frame Advance Key :

Pressing this key moves the hoop forward without
sewing. The key is used for correction when the hoop
is returned too far.
* The hoop is moved forward 10 stitches each time

the key is pressed.

Note: Before pressing keys,
make sure that the needle is at its highest

position.

49

z

x

c

M

→

¡ Combining Letters in Script Style

(Upper & Lowercase)
Example : A a

z Select “ A ” by pressing the key once.
x Press the memory key once.

M

v

b

n

m

,

.

z

x

c

q

c Change the display by pressing the key.

M

A

a

M

→

→

v Select “ ” by pressing the key twice.
b Press the key.
n Change the display by pressing the key.
m Press the key.
, Select “ a ” by pressing the key once.
. Press the memory key once.

Sewing sample

q

Space of 35 mm

w

M

A

a

M

/

/

A

a

¡ European (Accented) Letters in Block Style

(Lowercase)
Example : zêlo

z Select “ z ” by pressing key six times.
x Press the memory key once.

M

M

w

→

50

v

b

n

m

,

.

⁄0

M

M

M

q

→

→

→

c Chang the display by pressing the key.
v Select “ ê ” by pressing the key three times.
b Press the memory key once.
n Chang the display by pressing the key.
m Select “ l ” by pressing the key twice.
, Press the memory key once.
. Select “ o ” by pressing the key three times.
⁄0 Press the memory key once.

Uppercase or lowercase can be alternately selected by
pressing the upper/lowercase selection key .

Sewing sample

q

M

M

M

A

a

Embroidery with Optional Memory Cards

z

b

c

q

ON

OFF

w

v

O

OFF

To Insert and Eject the Memory Card.

x

¡ To Insert the Memory Card

z Turn off the power switch.
x Insert the card making sure the arrow on the label

is facing you.

c Push the card straight in until it clicks (see

illustration).

v Turn on the power switch. The menu screen

appears.

b Select the pattern by pressing the key.

N

Memory card is correctly inserted.

q

Memory card sticks out about 0.2 cm (1/8" ).

w

Settings reminder message is displayed for about 3

e

seconds.

e

ON

OFF

qw

¡ To Eject the Memory Card

Turn off the power switch.
Upon pressing the card eject button, the memory card
comes out halfway and can be taken out.

No memory card is inserted and the eject button is

q

not sticking out.

Memory card is incorrectly inserted.

w

If the eject button is not sticking out, the memory
card is not pushed in far enough.

51

¡ To set the Fabric in the Embroidery Hoop

w

q

q

e

r

Mark the fabric with reference lines, match them with
those on the template, and set the fabric in the
embroidry hoop.

Then attach the hoop to the carriage.

The pattern can be sewn based on this starting point.

Mark

q

Reference line

w

Template

e

Starting point

r

¡ Embroidery with Large Pattern Memory Card

Example: Memory Card 104

The color of thread and sewing procedure are
indicated.

Upon pressing the start/stop button, the machine sews
the pattern in step 1 and stops automatically.

When doing multi-color embroidering, cut the
connecting thread each time you change colors.

Pattern 1

q

e

r

w

The number next to the display indicates

w

which number embroidery hoop may be used.

The number shown under the thread color is the

e

color code of Janome embroidery thread.

Sewing sample

r

* Use of the keypad is same as for embroidering

letters.

Note: In embroidery sewing, do not sew the same

pattern twice in the same place, as it may

cause skipped stitchs.

52

z

d

d

x

c

¡ Skipping

M

L

A

M

S

C

MENU

a

(Use to sew only part of a design.)
Example : select Design 1.

z Select design 1.

x To sew only the fifth part of the pattern, press the

key previous to it.

c Sew the pattern until the machine stops

automatically.

q

Sewing sample

q

Note:

* When the key is pressed, the screen

C

returns to the previous screen.
Sew the pattern until the machine stops
automatically.

* To cancel Skipping, press the key.

The screen will return to the previous display.

53

¡ Embroidery with Large Pattern Memory Card

Example : Memory Card 8

Total thriteen designs are available on this card.

Select the design by pressing the display.

* The key is displayed only for the patterns

which can be sewn in more than one color.

↓

q

w

↓

Example : Design 3

Press the key to see the suggested thread color
and sewing sequence.

Press the start/stop button. The machine sews the
pattern in Step 1 and stops automatically.

When doing multi-color embroidery, cut the
connecting thread each time you change colors.

* When finished sewing, cut the thread at the end

point.

* Cut the connecting threads on the wrong side of the

fabric (leave about 5 mm).
Use of the keypad is same as for embroidering letters.

Step 1

q

Sewing sample

w

Embroidery with Blank Memory Card and
Scan'n Sew, Scan'n Sew PC (Optional
Accessories)

d

d

Sew patterns in the same way as for normal
embroidery.

54

When Messages Appear on Screen

The visual touch screen shows “Bobbin winding”
condition.
After the bobbin is wound, return the bobbin winder
to its original position by moving the spindle to the
left.

Raise the needle bar by pressing the up/down needle
button.

Turn off the power switch, and insert the Memory
Card again.

Stop operating the machine until this message
disappears (about 15 seconds).

Contact your Janome outlet.

This screen indicates the needle thread has run out or
has broken.
Turn off the power switch and rethread the machine.

SECTION V CARE OF YOUR MACHINE

Care of Your Machine

The Harmony 8100 has been meticulously designed
and manufactured to give you a lifetime of trouble-free
sewing. The machine never needs oiling but the
bobbin area and hook race should be cleaned after
completion of every garment. Do not store the
machine in a high-humidity area, near a heat radiator
or in direct sunlight. Clean the outside of the machine
with a soft cloth and neutral soap. Press the up/down
needle button to raise the needle and unplug the
machine before cleaning.

55

¡Replacing the Light Bulb

How to remove

Open the face plate and pull out the lamp socket, then
gently pull out the lamp.

Face plate

q

Lamp socket

w

Lamp

e

z

c

q

x

w

e

r

To replace

Insert the lamp being careful to match the holes and pins.

Attach the lamp socket and close the face plate.

Pin

r

Note:
To replace the light bulb, turn off the power supply
and remove power the cord from the wall outlet.
Remove the light after it has cooled down.

¡ Cleaning the Bobbin Holder

Loose threads and dust may cause puckered stitches

and thread breakage during stitching. Check for lint

build-up after each garment is completed.

Turn off the power switch or unplug the machine.

z Remove the cover plate by sliding the hook cover

plate release button to the right.

x Take out the bobbin, brush out dust and lint. (You

may also use a small vacuum cleaner.)

c Insert the bobbin and attach the hook cover plate.

zx

c

v

56

¡ Exposing the Hook Race

z Unplug the machine and remove the presser foot

and needle.

x Remove the screw on the left side of the needle

plate with the screwdriver supplied with the
machine.

c Remove the needle plate and take out the bobbin.
v Lift up the bobbin holder and remove it.

¡ Cleaning the Hook Race

Clean the feed dogs, hook race and bobbin holder
with the lint brush and a soft dry cloth.

¡ Replacing the Bobbin Holder

e

r

w

r

q

e

Insert the bobbin holder so that the knob fits next to
the stopper in the hook race.

Stopper

q

Knob

w

Insert the bobbin.

Replace the needle plate, inserting the two needle plate
guide pins into the holes in the needle plate.
Replace the screw.

Needle plate guide pin

e

Guide hole

r

57

Troubleshooting

Problem

The machine is
noisy.

The needle thread
breaks.

The bobbin thread
breaks.

Type of Sewing

All

All

All

All
All

All
All
All

Normal

Embroidery

All

All
All

Cause

Threads have been caught in the hook

q

mechanism.
The feed dog is packed with lint.

w

Slight humming sound coming from internal

e

moter.

The needle thread is not threaded properly.

q

The needle thread tension is too tight.

w

The needle is bent or blunt.

e

The needle is incorrectly inserted.

r

The thread is too heavy for the needle.

t

The needle thread and the bobbin thread are

y

not set properly under (drawn to the rear of)
the presser foot when sewing is starting.

The needle thread is not set in the thread

u

holder when embroidery sewing is starting.

The bobbin thread is not threaded properly in

q

the bobbin holder.
Lint has collected in the bobbin holder.

w

The bobbin is damaged and doesn't turn

e

smoothly.

Reference

See pages 56,57.

See pages 56,57.

See page 6.
Not abnormal

See pages 8-11.

See page 14.
See page 39.

See page 39.
See page 13.
See page 11.

See page 44.

See page 9.

See page 57.

Replace bobbin.

The needle breaks.

Visual touch
screen is not clear.

The embroidery
key doesn’t work.

Key doesn't work.

All
All

All
All

All

Normal

All

Embroidery

Embroidery

The needle is incorrectly inserted.

q

The needle is bent or blunt.

w

The needle clamp screw is loose.

e

The needle thread tension is too tight.

r

The fabric is not drawn to the rear when sewing

t

is finished.
The needle is too fine for the fabric being sewn.

y

The sharpness of visual touch screen is not

q

adjusted properly.

The memory card is not inserted properly.

q

The needle is in the lowered position.

q

See page 39.
See page 39.
See page 39.

See page 14.
See page 18.

See page 13.

See page 3.
Turn the knob to
correct.

See page 51.

See pages 12, 49.
Raise the needle.

58

Problem

Type of Sewing

Cause

Reference

Skipped stitches

All

All
All

All

All

All

Normal

Embroidery
Embroidery

All

All

All

The needle is incorrectly inserted.

q

The needle is bent or blunt.

w

The needle and/or threads are not suitable for

e

the work being sewn.

A blue-tipped needle is not being used for

r

sewing stretch, very fine fabrics and synthetics.
The needle thread is not threaded properly.

t

The wrong needle is used.

y

The presser foot pressure is not strong enough.

u

The embroidery hoop is not set properly.

i

The fabric is not tightly pulled on the

o

embroidery hoop.
Interfacing is not being used with stretch or fine

!0

fabrics.

The needle thread tension is too tight.

q

The needle thread or the bobbin thread is not

w

threaded correctly.

See page 39.
See page 39.

See page 13.

See page 13.

See page 10.
Change the

needle.

See page 12.
See pages 43, 44.

See page 43.

See pages 25,41,43.

See page 14.
See pages 8-11.

Seam puckering

Slipping fabric

The cloth is not
feeding smoothly.

All

Normal

Normal

Embroidery

All

Normal

Normal

Normal

Normal
Normal

Normal
Normal
Normal

The needle is too heavy for the fabric being

e

sewn.
The stitch length is too long for the fabric.

r

The presser foot pressure is not correctly

t

adjusted.

* When sewing extremely lightweight materials,

place stabilizer underneath the fabric.
The fabric is not tightly pulled on the

y

embroidery hoop.

Interfacing is not being used with stretch or fine

u

fabrics.

The presser foot pressure is not correctly

q

adjusted.
The correct presser foot is not being used.

w

The feed dog is packed with lint.

q

The presser foot pressure is too weak.

w

The stitches are too fine.

e

The fabric is not fed when sewing is starting.

r

The feed dog is lowered.

t

The correct presser foot is not used.

y

See page 13.

Make the stitches
denser.

See page 12.

See page 43.

See pages 25, 43.

See page 12.

Use the correct
Presser foot

See pages 56, 57.

See page 12.
Make the stitches

coarser.
See page 19.

See page 42.
Use the correct

Presser foot

59

Problem

Type of Sewing

Cause

Reference

The machine
doesn’t run.

Strange sound
occurs when the
machine is
switched on.

Patterns are
distorted.

All
All

All

Embroidery

All

All

All

All
Normal

Normal
All

Embroidery
Embroidery

Embroidery

Embroidery

Embroidery

The machine is not plugged in.

q

A thread is caught in the hook race.

w

The control circuit is not working correctly.

e

The foot control is plugged in when sewing

r

embroidery.

Something is caught between the carriage and

q

the arm.
The carriage is rubbing against something

w

touching the machine.

The correct presser foot is not being used.

q

The needle thread tension is too tight.

w

The stitch length is not suitable for the fabric

e

being sewn.
The feed balancing dial is not set properly.

r

Interfacing is not used for sewing stretch and

t

very fine fabrics.
The embroidery hoop knob is loose.

y

The carriage has bumped into something near

u

the machine.
The fabric is not pulled tightly on the

i

embroidery hoop.
The end of the fabric is caught or pulled for

o

some reason when sewing embroidery.
The needle thread on the wrong side of fabric

!0

is not cut correctly.

See page 6.
See page 9.

Turn off the machine
and turn it on again.
Then set for desired
pattern.

See page 41.

Remove the object.

See page 42.

Use the correct presser
foot.

See page 14.
See page 20.

See page 40.
See pages 25, 41, 43.

See page 44.
See page 42.

See page 43.

Stop the machine and free
the end of the fabric.
Cut the extra needle

thread on the wrong side
of fabric.

The sensor
buttonhole
stitches are not
balanced.

Pattern
selection keys
don’t work.

60

Normal

Normal
Normal

All

Embroidery

All

All

The stitch length is not suitable for the fabric

q

being sewn.
Interfacing is not used with stretch fabrics.

w

The presser foot is not the correct one.

e

The bobbin winder spindle is in the winding

q

position.
The number of characters is beyond the

w

capacity of memory.
The control circuit is not working correctly.

e

Ordinary sewing or embroidery modes have

r

not been selected properly.

See page 27.

See page 25.
See page 25.

See pages 8-55.

See pages 46.

Turn off the machine and
turn it on again. Then set
for desired pattern.

See pages 15, 42.



834-853-005(E)
Printed in Japan