Janome Skyline S9 Instruction Manual

Instruction Book

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

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

This sewing machine is designed and manufactured for household use only.
Read all instructions before using this sewing machine.

To reduce the risk of electric shock:

DANGER

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.

WARNING

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 or 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 ngers away from all moving parts. Special care is required around the sewing machine

needle and/or cutting blade.

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 deect 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.

—

—

To reduce the risk of burns, re, electric shock, or injury to persons:

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS

For Europe only:

This appliance can be used by children aged from 8 years and above and persons with reduced
physical, sensory or mental capabilities or lack of experience and knowledge if they have been given
supervision or instruction concerning use of the appliance in a safe way and understand the hazards
involved. Children shall not play with the appliance. Cleaning and user maintenance shall not be made
by children without supervision.

For outside Europe (except U.S.A and Canada):

This appliance is not intended for use by persons (including children) with reduced physical, sensory or
mental capabilities, or lack of experience and knowledge, unless they have been given supervision or
instruction concerning use of the appliance by a person responsible for their safety.
Children should be supervised to ensure that they do not play with the appliance.

Please note that on disposal, this product must be safely recycled in accordance with relevant
National legislation relating to electrical/electronic products. If in doubt please contact your
retailer for guidance. (European Union only)

1

TABLE OF CONTENTS

ESSENTIAL PARTS

Names of Parts ............................................................4-5

Embroidery unit case .....................................................5

Standard Accessories .................................................6-7

Accessory Storage .........................................................8

Extension Table ..............................................................8

Free-arm sewing ............................................................ 8

GETTING READY TO SEW

Connecting the Power Supply ........................................ 9

Operating Instructions: ...................................................9

Controlling Sewing Speed ............................................ 10

Foot Control .................................................................. 10

Machine Operating Buttons ...........................................11

Touch Panel Keys ......................................................... 12

Winding the Bobbin ..................................................13-14

Inserting the Bobbin ..................................................... 15

Threading the Machine................................................. 16

Built-in Needle Threader .............................................. 17

Drawing up the Bobbin Thread .................................... 18

Replacing Needles ....................................................... 19

Fabric and Needle Chart .............................................. 19

Replacing the Presser Foot .......................................... 20

Removing and Attaching the Foot Holder .................... 21

Attaching the Dual Feed Foot....................................... 22

Attaching the Darning Foot PD-H .................................23

Attaching the Embroidery Foot P ................................. 23

Attaching the Couching Foot PC-1 or PC-2 .................23

Replacing the Needle Plate .......................................... 24

Raising and Lowering the Presser Foot ....................... 25

Knee Lifter ....................................................................25

Dropping the Feed Dog ................................................ 26

ORDINARY SEWING MODE

Ordinary Stitch Patterns ...............................................27

Function Keys in Ordinary Sewing Mode ................28-29

Utility Stitches ...............................................................30

Straight Stitches ...........................................................30

Sewing from the Edge of Thick Fabric ......................... 30

Changing Sewing Direction ..........................................30

Turning a Square Corner .............................................. 30

Securing Seams ........................................................... 31

Cutting Threads ............................................................ 31

Needle Plate Guides .................................................... 31

Variety of Straight Stitches ......................................32-34

Sewing with the Dual Feed Device ............................... 33

Zigzag Stitches .............................................................34

Variety of Overcasting Stitches .................................... 35

Manual Stitch Settings ................................................. 36

Adjusting Thread Tension .............................................37

Adjusting Foot Pressure Control .................................. 37

Foot up for Pivoting ......................................................37

Favorite Stitch Adjustment............................................38

Cloth Guide .................................................................. 39

Other Utility Stitches ................................................40-41

Variety of Buttonholes ..................................................42

B1 Sensor (Square) Buttonhole ...............................43-46

Using the Stabilizer Plate ............................................. 47

B2 Automatic (square) Buttonhole ...........................48-49

Other Buttonholes ........................................................50

B11 Welted Buttonhole (Bound Buttonhole) ............ 51-52

Corded Buttonhole .......................................................53

Speciality Stitches ...................................................54-55

B13 Darning ..................................................................54

B15, B16 Eyelet ............................................................55

Decorative Stitches .................................................56-65

Decorative Stitch Groups ........................................56-60

Quilting(Q) ....................................................................61

Using the Quilting Guide Bar ........................................ 61

Q1-Q3 Patchwork Piecing ............................................ 61

Angle Scales on the Needle Plate ................................61

Q54-Q55 Hand-look quilt stitches ................................ 61

S1-S20 Decorative Satin Stitches ................................ 62

Elongation Ratio ...........................................................62

Tapering........................................................................ 63

Created Stitches(CS) ....................................................64

Twin Needle Sewing .....................................................65

PROGRAMMING A PATTERN COMBINATION

Mirror Image of Patterns ...............................................66

Bridge Stitches .............................................................66

Editing a Pattern Combination...................................... 67

Deleting a Pattern ......................................................... 67

Inserting a Pattern ........................................................67

Startover Key ................................................................ 68

Checking Pattern Combination Length ........................69

Monogramming ............................................................ 70

Function Keys ............................................................... 70

Manual Thread Tension ................................................ 71

Individual Thread Tension Adjustment ......................... 71

Unied Thread Tension Adjustment ............................. 71

Spacing ........................................................................ 71

Reducing the Size of Letters ........................................ 71

Programming a Monogram........................................... 72

Saving a Pattern Combination ...................................... 73

Opening a Pattern Combination ....................................74

SEWING APPLICATION

Sewing Applications ..................................................... 75

Seaming ....................................................................... 76

Overedge ...................................................................... 77

Blind Hem ................................................................78-79

Shell Tuck .....................................................................79

Rolled Hem ...................................................................80

Zipper Sewing .........................................................81-83

Concealed Zipper Sewing (optional) .......................84-85

Gathering ...................................................................... 86

Basting .........................................................................86

Button Sewing .............................................................. 87

Tacking .........................................................................88

Applique .......................................................................89

Patchwork .....................................................................90

Quilting ......................................................................... 91

Straight Stitches (with dual feed) .................................. 91

Clasp Stitches .............................................................. 91

Free Quilting .................................................................92

One Stitch Off ...............................................................92

Foot Height for Free Motion Quilting ............................ 92

Sculpture Stitches ........................................................ 92

Hand-look Quilt Stitches ...............................................93

Variable Zigzag .............................................................93

Maximum Zigzag Width Adjustment .............................93

2

CUSTOMIZING MACHINE SETTINGS

Machine Setting Mode .................................................94

Common Setting Mode ...........................................94-97

Ordinary Sewing Setting Mode ............................. 98-101

Wi-Fi Setting Mode ...............................................102-104

Language Selection Mode ......................................... 105

Correcting Distorted Stitch Patterns ........................... 105

EMBROIDERY MODE

Embroidery Unit .................................................. 106-108

Attaching the embroidery unit .................................. 106

Extending the carriage arm ...................................... 107

Detaching the embroidery unit ................................. 108

Attaching the Embroidery Foot................................... 109

Attaching the Straight Stitch Needle Plate ..................110

Special Bobbin Holder for Embroidery ........................111

Embroidery Hoops ......................................................112

Stabilizers ....................................................................113

Types of the stabilizers ................................................113

Setting the Fabric in an Embroidery Hoop ..................114

Attaching the Embroidery Hoop to the Machine .........115

Thread Holder .............................................................115

Selecting Built-in Embroidery Designs ........................116

Monogramming ...........................................................117

Function keys ............................................................118

Programming a monogram........................................119

Monogram placement ...............................................119

2-Letter monogram ................................................... 120

Editing a monogram ..................................................121

Ready to Sew Window ............................................... 122

Function keys ........................................................... 122

Pattern information ................................................... 122

Stitch back/forward keys .......................................... 123

Jump key .................................................................. 123

Cross mark ............................................................... 123

Color section key ......................................................123

Trace key ............................................................124-125

Thread color/Jog key ................................................ 125

Fine position/angle adjustment key .......................... 126

Rotating a design ..................................................... 126

Moving a design ....................................................... 126

Color list key ............................................................. 127

Adjust key ................................................................. 127

Hoop back key .......................................................... 128

Embroidery foot key ................................................. 129

Starting to Sew Embroidery ....................................... 130

Editing Mode ...............................................................131

Selecting a hoop size ................................................131

Opening the embroidery designs ..............................131

Editing tool bar information ....................................... 132

Selecting a pattern ................................................... 132

Moving a pattern ....................................................... 132

Zooming in the editing window ................................. 133

Duplicating a pattern ................................................ 133

Deleting a pattern ..................................................... 134

Resizing a pattern .................................................... 134

Rotating a pattern ..................................................... 135

Flipping a pattern...................................................... 135

Monogramming in an arc ......................................... 136

Sewing order ............................................................ 137

Center positioning .................................................... 137

Corner layout ............................................................ 137

Customizing the display colors ................................. 138

Grouping patterns..................................................... 139

Color grouping .......................................................... 140

Single color sewing ...................................................141

Embroidery Lace Designs ....................................142-143

Placement guides of “Designs for fabric” ................... 143

Lace Design RE20a-1 ..........................................144-147

Connecting Lace Design RE20a-1 (Designs for water

soluble stabilizer) ................................................145-147

Free Arm Embroidery ................................................. 148

Couching Designs ................................................149-151

CUSTOMIZING EMBROIDERY MODE SETTINGS

Embroidery Mode Settings ...................................152-156

Saving and Opening a File ......................................... 157

Creating a new folder ............................................... 157

Deleting a le or folder ............................................. 158

Opening a le ........................................................... 158

Changing a name of the le or folder ....................... 159

Direct PC-Link ............................................................ 159

CARE AND MAINTENANCE

Cleaning the Hook Area ............................................. 160

Problems and Warning Signals .................................. 161

Troubleshooting ....................................................162-163

STITCH CHART

Ordinary Sewing .................................................. 164-167

DESIGN CHART

Embroidery .......................................................... 168-177

3

!3

q

!2

#7

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!4

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!5

!1

try

!0

@0 @1

!9
!8
!7

!6

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i

@2

u

@6

@3

@7

@4

@5

ESSENTIAL PARTS

Names of Parts

q

Thread take-up lever

w

Reference chart

e

Top cover

r

Touch panel stylus holder

t

Foot storage compartment

y

Bobbin thread cutter B

u

Bobbin winder spindle

i

Bobbin thread cutter A

o

Hole for extra spool pin

!0

Spool pin

!1

Spool holder (large)

!2

Face cover

!3

Thread cutter

!4

Extension table (accessory storage)

!5

Needle plate release lever

!6

Start/stop button

!7

Reverse button

!8

Auto-lock button

!9

Needle up/down button

@0

Presser foot lifter button

@1

Thread cutter button

@2

Feed balancing dial

@3

Knee lifter socket

@4

Speed control slider

@5

Visual touch screen

@6

Lower thread guide

@7

Needle clamp screw

@8

Needle

@9

Zigzag foot A

#0

Needle plate

#1

Hook cover release button

#2

Hook cover plate

#3

Feed dog

#4

Foot holder

#5

Setscrew

#6

Needle threader

#7

Buttonhole lever

#6

#5

#4

#3

#2

#1

@8

@9

#0

NOTE:

To carry the sewing machine, hold the carrying handle
with your hand, and support the sewing machine with
the other hand.

NOTE:

Sewing machine design and specications are subject

to change without prior notice.

4

r

e

t

w

y

u i

q

o

!0

!4

!3

!2

!1

q

Carrying handle

w

Handwheel

e

Dual feed balancing dial

r

Thread cutter switch jack*

t

USB port (type B)

y

USB port (type A)

u

Drop feed lever

i

Machine socket

o

Foot control jack

!0

Power switch

!1

Cover

!2

Presser foot lifter

!3

Dual feed drive

!4

Embroidery unit socket

!5

Embroidery unit

!6

Carriage arm

!7

Carriage arm release lever

* Thread cutter switch is the optional item.

!7

q

!6

!5

w

Embroidery unit case

To use:

Open the aps.

Attach the supporter as shown.
Place the embroidery unit as shown so the supporter
prevents the embroidery unit sways inside the case while
carrying.

q Flaps
w Supporter
e Embroidery unit

e

w

5

q

!6

@4

!0

@8

!8

w

e

r

y

i

u

!7

!2

!9

!3

@0

!4

@2

@1

!1

@5 @6 @7

@9

o

!5

t

#0

@3

Standard Accessories

q

Zigzag foot A (set on the machine)

w

Overedge foot M

e

Satin stitch foot F

r

Blind hemming foot G

t

Zipper foot E

y

Automatic buttonhole foot R

u

Stabilizer plate

i

Rolled hem foot D

o

Open toe satin stitch foot F2

!0

Darning foot PD-H

!1

Free motion quilting closed-toe foot QC

!2

Free motion quilting open-toe foot QO

!3

Free motion quilting zigzag foot QV

!4

Button sewing foot T

!5

1/4˝ seam foot O

!6

Dual feed holder (twin)

!7

Dual feed holder (single)

!8

Dual feed foot AD (twin)

!9

Dual feed foot VD (single)

@0

Dual feed quilt piecing foot OD (twin)

@1

AcuFeed open toe foot UD (twin)

@2

Dual feed zipper foot ED (single)

@3

Embroidery foot P

@4

Couching foot PC-1

@5

Couching foot PC-2

@6

Yarn guide bar

@7

Yarn guide

#2

#6

#3

#9

#7

$0

#4

#8

#1

#5

$3

@8

Straight stitch needle plate

@9

Bobbin x 5 (1 set on the machine)

#0

Needle set

#1

Additional spool pin

#2

Screwdriver

#3

Lint brush

#4

Seam ripper (buttonhole opener)

#5

Quilting guide bar

#6

Spool holder (large) X 2 (1 set on the

machine)

#7

Spool holder (small) X 2

#8

Spool holder (special) X 2

#9

Bobbin holder cleaner

$0

Button shank plate

$1

Scissors

$2

Touch panel stylus

$3

Cloth guide

$1

$2

6

q

e r

w

t

Standard Accessories

q

Embroidery hoop SQ14a (with template)

w

Embroidery hoop RE20a (with template)

e

Embroidery hoop FA10a (with template)

r

Bobbin holder for embroidery

t

Magnetic clamps (X4)

y

Felt

u

Stabilizers

i

Bobbin thread for embroidery

o

USB cable

!0

Power supply cable*

!1

Instruction book

!2

Quick charts

!3

Knee lifter

!4

Foot control

!5

Embroidery unit case

!6

Semi-hard fabric cover

!7

Instructional video DVD

!8

Acutools S CD-ROM

!1

!4

!2

o

y

u

i

!0

!3

!5

!7!6 !8

*The power supply cable included may differ

from the illustration.

7

q

Accessory Storage

The accessories can be conveniently stored in the
compartment of the extension table and the compartment
under the top cover.

To store the accessories in the compartment of the
extension table, push up the cover towards you to open
the accessory storage.

q Presser foot
w Buttonhole stabilizer plate
e Automatic buttonhole foot R
r Dual feed foot AD (twin)
t Straight stitch needle plate　　　　　
y Bobbin
u Extra spool pin

Other accessories can be also stored in the compartment
in the extension table.

w

t

y q

w

e

r

u

Extension Table

The extension table provides an extended sewing area
and can be removed for free-arm sewing.
q Extension table
w Free-arm

To detach:

Draw the table out to the left.

e

q

To attach:

Slide the table on the base and push the table to the

right.

Free-arm sewing

Free-arm sewing is used for stitching sleeves,
waistbands, pant legs or any other tubular garments.
It is also useful for darning socks or mending knees or
elbows.
e Free-arm

8

q

e

w

r

z

c

t

GETTING READY TO SEW

Connecting the Power Supply

z First make sure the power switch q is off.
x Insert the machine plug w of the power supply cable

into the machine socket e.

c Insert the power supply plug r into the wall outlet t,

and turn the power switch q on.
q Power switch
w Machine plug
e Machine socket
r Power supply plug
t Wall outlet

NOTE:

Make sure to use the power supply cable that came
with the machine.
If you turn off the power switch, wait for 5 seconds
before turning it on again.

WARNING:

While in operation, always keep your eyes on the
sewing area, and do not touch any moving parts such
as the thread take-up lever, handwheel or needle.
Always turn off the power switch and unplug the
machine from the power supply:

- when leaving the machine unattended.

- when cleaning the machine.
Do not place anything on the foot control.

c

q

e

t

w

r

z

v

y

u

If you wish to use the foot control, pull out the cord from

the foot control and insert the pin connector into the jack

on the machine.

z First make sure the power switch q is off.
x Insert the machine plug w of the power supply cable

into the machine socket e.
c Draw out the cord from the foot control and insert the

pin connector r into the jack t on the machine.
v Insert the power supply plug y into the wall outlet u,

and turn the power switch q on.

q Power switch
w Machine plug
e Machine socket
r Pin connector
t Jack
y Power supply plug
u Wall outlet

NOTE:

The start/stop button does not work when the foot
control is connected.

Operating Instructions:

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

For the U.S.A. and Canada only

Polarized plug (one blade wider than the other):
To reduce the risk of electric shock, this plug is intended

to t in a polarized outlet only one way. If it does not t
fully in the outlet, reverse the plug. If it still does not t,
contact a qualied electrician to install the proper outlet.

Do not modify the plug in any way.

9

q w

Controlling Sewing Speed

Speed control slider

You can limit the maximum sewing speed with the speed
control slider according to your sewing needs.
To increase the sewing speed, move the slider to the
right.
To decrease the sewing speed, move the slider to the left.

Foot Control

Pressing on the foot control can vary sewing speed.
The harder you press the foot control, the faster the
machine runs.

NOTE:

The machine runs at the maximum speed set by
the speed control slider when the foot control is fully
depressed.

This machine is equipped with an automatic shutdown

safety feature to prevent overheating whenever the
machine is running overloaded. Follow the safety
instructions that appear on the visual touch screen.

e

Cord storage

The cord of the foot control can be conveniently stored in
the cord storage under the base cover of the foot control.

q Base cover
w Cord
e Hooks

Operating Instructions:

Foot control model 21380 is for use with this sewing
machine.

10

i

e Auto-lock button

• When stitch pattern U1, U4, U8-U10, Q1-Q3,
BR1-BR5 or D1 is selected;

t

u

r

e

q

w

y

Machine Operating Buttons

q Start/stop button

Press this button to start or stop the machine.

The machine starts running slowly for the rst few

stitches, it then runs at the speed set by the speed control
slider. The machine runs slowly as long as this button is
pressed.

The button will turn red when the machine is running, and
green when it has been stopped.

Pressing and holding this button while sewing will slow
down the sewing speed and the machine will stop when
the button is released.

NOTE:

• The start/stop button cannot be used when the foot

control is connected to the machine.

• You can select the desired start-up speed from

slow, medium or high (refer to page 98).

w Reverse button

• When stitch pattern U1, U4, U8-U10, Q1-Q3,
BR1-BR5 or D1 is selected;

U: Q: BR:

D:

U: Q: BR:

Press the auto-lock button to sew a locking stitch
immediately. The machine will automatically stop.

When the machine is stopped, press the auto-lock
button to blink the LED signal u. The machine will
immediately sew locking stitches and automatically
stop when the machine is started.

• When any other stitches are selected;

Press the auto-lock button to sew a locking stitch
at the end of current pattern. The machine will
automatically stop.

When the machine is stopped, press the auto-lock
button to blink the LED signal u. The machine will
sew a locking stitch at the end of the current pattern
and automatically stop when the machine is started.

The machine will trim the threads automatically after
locking the stitch when the auto thread cutting is
turned on (refer to page 101).

r Needle up/down button

Press this button to bring the needle bar up or down.
The machine will stop with the needle in down position.
However, you can change the needle stop position in the
machine setting mode (refer to page 98).

t Presser foot lifter button
The presser foot will go up or go down by pressing this

button.
You can also use the presser foot lifter and knee lifter to
raise and lower the presser foot (refer to page 25).

y Thread cutter button

After nish sewing, press this button to trim the threads.

The needle bar automatically rises after trimming the
threads (refer to page 31).
The LED signal i blinks when the machine trims
threads.

D:

The machine will sew in reverse as long as the
reverse button is pressed. Release the button to sew
forward.
When the machine is stopped and foot control is
disconnected, the machine will sew in reverse slowly
as long as the reverse button is pressed. Release the
button to stop the machine.

• When any other stitches are selected;

If you press the reverse button when sewing any other
patterns, the machine will immediately sew locking
stitches and automatically stop.

NOTE:

There will be particular functions of the reverse
button when stitch pattern U2, U3, B2, B13, or B14
is selected. Refer to pages 32, 48, 54 and 88 for
instructions.

NOTE:

The thread cutter button does not function:

- directly after turning on the power.

- when the presser foot is raised with the foot lifter.

- after being pressed 3 times in a row.
Use the thread cutter on the face cover if the thread is

#30 or thicker (refer to page 31).

11

q

Touch Panel Keys

CAUTION:

Do not press the touch panel or visual touch screen

with hard or sharp objects like pencils, screwdrivers

or the like. Use the touch panel stylus included in the
standard accessories.

u i

u

w

e

r

t

y

q Home key

Press this key to enter the category selection of the
selected mode (ordinary sewing mode or embroidery
mode).

w Mode switch key
Press this key to enter into embroidery mode or to return
to ordinary sewing mode.

e Open le key

Press this key and the open le window will open.

You can open pattern combinations, monograms and
embroidery designs saved in the machine’s internal

memory or on a USB ash drive.

r Set mode key
Press this key to enter the setting mode. You can
customize the machine settings to your preference.
The machine settings for common settings, ordinary
sewing, embroidery, Wi-Fi
available in this mode.

t Help key
Press this key to view the step-by-step visual guide about
the essential parts.

®

* and language selection are

y Lockout key
Press this key to lockout the machine when threading the
machine, replacing the accessories etc.

To reduce the risk of injury, all the buttons except the lock

key and presser foot lifter button are deactivated.
To unlock the machine, press this key again.

u Page keys
Press the page key to display the next page or previous
page. Press and hold the page key to turn the pages
continuously.

i Touch bar
Press on the bar and slide to the right or left to display the
next page or previous page.

12

q

Winding the Bobbin

Removing the Bobbin

Slide the hook cover release button to the right, and

remove the hook cover plate.
q Hook cover release button
w Hook cover plate

q

w

e

w

r

Lift out the bobbin from the bobbin holder.
e Bobbin

NOTE:

Use the “J” plastic bobbins for horizontal hook (marked
with “J” r). Using other bobbins, such as pre-wound
paper bobbins, may cause stitching problems and/ or
damage to the bobbin holder.

Setting the spool of thread

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

Attach the large spool holder, and press it rmly against

the spool of thread.
q Large spool holder

Use the small spool holder to hold narrow or small spools
of thread.
w Small spool holder

e

e

e

r

r

t

q

Use the spool holder (special) to hold the specic size of

the spool of threads as shown.
The sizes of the spools of thread are as follows;

The hole diameter of the spool has a range of 3/8˝ to
7/16˝ (9.5 to 10.5 mm)), and the spool length has a range
of 2 3/4˝ to 3˝ (70 to 75 mm).

e Spool holder (special)
r Hole diameter (3/8˝ to 7/16˝)
t Spool length (2 3/4˝ to 3˝)

Firmly insert the spool holder (special) into the hole and
hold the spool as illustrated.

Extra spool pin

Use the extra spool pin when you need to wind a bobbin
without unthreading the machine while working on a

sewing project.

Insert the extra spool pin into the hole as shown.

Place a spool of thread on the extra spool pin and x the

spool with the spool holder.
q Extra spool pin
w Hole for extra spool pin
e Large spool holder

w

NOTE:

The extra spool pin is also used for twin needle
sewing.

13

Winding the bobbin

NOTE:

Set the speed control slider at the fastest position (refer

to page 10).

z x

w

q

e

w

c v

r

t

q

z Pull the thread from the spool.

Hold the thread with both hands and pass the thread

into the guide slot q.

Draw the thread to the left and forward around the

thread guide w.

Draw the thread to the rear and to the right around

and under the guide plate e.

q Guide slot
w Thread guide
e Guide plate

x Firmly pull the thread to the right while holding it with

both hands.

c Put the bobbin r on the bobbin winder spindle t.
r Bobbin
t Bobbin winder spindle

v Pass the thread to the bobbin.

Hold the thread with both hands and wind it around

the bobbin clockwise several times.

b n

u

m

y

,

i

b Insert the thread into one of the slits u of the ange

plate y and pull the thread to cut.

y Flange plate
u Slit

n Push the bobbin to the right. The visual touch screen

will show the bobbin winding sign.

m Start the machine.
Stop the machine when the bobbin is fully wound and

stops spinning.

Return the bobbin winder spindle to its original

position.

, Remove the bobbin. Cut the thread with bobbin thread

cutter B i.

i Bobbin thread cutter B

NOTE:

For safety purposes, the machine will automatically
stop 1.5 minutes after starting bobbin winding.

14

Inserting the Bobbin

z

x

r

z Press the lockout key.

Place a bobbin in the bobbin holder with the thread

ew

q

t

running off counterclockwise as shown on the hook

cover plate.

q Lockout key
w End of thread
e Bobbin holder
r Hook cover plate

x Hold the bobbin with your ngertip so it does not

rotate.
Guide the thread into the front notch of the bobbin

holder.
Pull the thread to the left to pass it under the guide.

t Front notch
y Guide

y

c

v

i

o

!0

Correct

i

u

i

Wrong

c Draw the thread to the left to pass it into the guide

path marked “1”.
Make sure that the thread comes out from the side

notch of the bobbin holder.

u Guide path 1
i Side notch

NOTE:

If the thread does not come out from the side notch,
rethread from step z.

v Continue to draw the thread along the guide path

marked “2” and pull the thread to the right through the

slit. The thread will be cut to a proper length and held

in place.

o Guide path 2
! 0 Slit (Thread cutter)

b

r

b Set the left edge of the hook cover plate into opening.

Push down the hook cover plate to t in place.

NOTE:

Unless otherwise noted, you can start sewing without
drawing up the bobbin thread.
Refer to page 18 for how to draw up the bobbin
thread.

15

b

Threading the Machine

xv

z

CAUTION:

Always make sure to press the lockout key to lockout
the machine before threading the machine.

Press the needle up/down button to raise the take-up
lever to the highest position.
Press the lockout key to lockout the machine. The
presser foot will go down and the upper thread tension

c

disks will open.

q Lockout key

z

x

c

y

n

e

m

r

r

w

v

u

Pass the thread in order z to m.
z Hold the thread with both hands and pass the thread

into the guide slot.

q

w Guide slot

x Hold the thread with both hands and draw the thread

around the corner of the guide.

Firmly pull the thread toward you along the right

channel until the thread snaps.

e Corner of the guide
r Right channel

c Draw the thread down along the right channel and

around the bottom of the thread guide plate. Pull the
thread up along the left channel.

r Right channel
t Thread guide plate
y Left channel

v While holding the thread at the spool, rmly draw the

thread up and to the back of the take-up lever. Draw
the thread forward to draw it into the eye of the take­up lever.

u Eye of the take-up lever

b n m

i

t

o

b Then pull the thread down along the left channel and

through the lower thread guide.

i Lower thread guide

n Slide the thread from the right of the needle bar thread

guide to the left.

o Needle bar thread guide
m Thread the needle with the needle threader (refer to

the next page).

16

z

q

Built-in Needle Threader

NOTE:

• The needle threader can be used with a #11 to #16

needle.

Thread size 50 to 90 is recommended.
Do not use thread size 30 or thicker.

• The needle threader cannot be used with the twin

needle.

x

c

v

e

r

w

z Press the needle up/down button to raise the needle.

Press the lockout key to lock the machine.
q Needle up/down button
w Lockout key

x Draw the thread through the slit e of the needle

threader. The thread should pass under the hook r.
e Slit
r Hook

c Pull the thread up and slip it between the thread cutter

and face plate from behind.
Pull the thread toward you to cut.

v Pull down the needle threader knob as far as it will go.

b

n

b Raise the threader slowly so a loop of the thread is

pulled up through the needle eye.

n Pull the thread loop to take the thread end out through

the needle eye to the rear.

NOTE:

If the thread is caught in the hook and the thread loop
is not formed, remove the thread from the hook and
pull it to take the thread end out through the needle
eye.

17

z

Drawing up the Bobbin Thread

After using auto thread cutting or threading the bobbin
holder, you can start sewing without drawing up the
bobbin thread.
However, you need to draw up the bobbin thread when
sewing gathering stitches etc.

x

w

e

q

z

Remove the bobbin. Insert the bobbin into the bobbin
holder again and rethread the bobbin holder according

to the instructions on page 15, but leave a 10 cm (4˝)

tail of bobbin thread as shown.

q Bobbin thread

NOTE:

Do not cut the bobbin thread with the thread cutter.

w Thread cutter

x

Raise the presser foot. Hold the needle thread lightly
with your left hand.

e Needle thread

c

v

r

c

Press the needle up/down button twice to lower and
raise the needle and pick up the bobbin thread.

r Needle up/down button

v Pull both threads 10 cm (4˝) under and behind the

presser foot.

18

w

Replacing Needles

CAUTION:

Always make sure to press the lockout key to lockout
the machine before replacing the needle.

Raise the needle by pressing the needle up/down button.
Press the lockout key.
q Lockout key

r

e

q

Loosen the needle clamp screw by turning it
counterclockwise.
Remove the needle from the clamp.
w Needle clamp screw

Insert a new needle into the needle clamp with the at

side of the needle to the rear.
e Flat side

When inserting the needle into the needle clamp, push it
up against the stopper pin and tighten the needle clamp

screw rmly with a screwdriver.

To check needle straightness, place the at side of the
needle onto something at (a needle plate, glass etc.).
The gap between the needle and the at surface should

be consistent.
r Gap

Never use a blunt needle.

Fabric Thread Needle

Lawn
Georgette

Fine

Medium

Heavy
weight

NOTE:

1 x twin needle, 2 x blue tip needle (#11/75), 1 x red tip
needle (#14/90) and 1 x purple tip needle (#14/90) are
included in the needle case (Part No. 859856005).

Tricot
Organza
Crepe

Sheeting

Jersey
Broadcloth
Fleece

Denim
Tweed
Coating
Quilting

Silk #80-100

Cotton #80-100

Synthetic #80-100

Silk #50

Cotton #50-80

Synthetic #50-80

Silk #30-50

Cotton #40-50

Synthetic #40-50

Blue tip needle
Universal needle
#9/65-11/75

Red tip needle
Purple tip needle
Universal needle
#11/75-14/90

Red tip needle
Purple tip needle
Universal needle
#14/90-16/100

Fabric and Needle Chart

• For general sewing, use red needle.

• Fine threads and needles should be used for sewing
ne fabrics.

• In general, use the same thread for both needle and

bobbin.

• Use a blue tip needle for sewing ne fabrics, stretch

fabrics, tricot and buttonholes to prevent skipped
stitches.

• Use a purple tip needle for sewing knits, free quilting

and across the hem to prevent skipped stitches.

• Use a stabilizer or interface to stretch or ne fabrics

to prevent seam puckering.

• Always test the thread and needle size on a small

piece of the same fabric you will use for actual
sewing.

For embroidery:

• In general, use a blue tip needle.

• Use a red tip needle or purple tip needle for thicker

fabrics.

• Use a purple tip needle for dense stitch embroidery

and Quilting designs.

• Janome bobbin thread for embroidery is

recommended for bobbin.

19

z

Replacing the Presser Foot

CAUTION:

Always make sure to press the lockout key to before
replacing the presser foot.
Use the proper foot for the selected pattern.
The wrong foot can cause the needle to break.

x

c

e

r

q

w

z Raise the needle by pressing the needle up/down

button.

Press the lockout key.

q Needle up/down button
w Lockout key

x Raise the presser foot lifter.
e Presser foot lifter

c Press the black lever on the back of the foot holder.

The presser foot will drop off.

r Lever

v

y

t

u

CAUTION:

To avoid damaging the lever, do not push it down.

v Place the presser foot so that the pin on the foot lies

just under the groove of the foot holder.

Lower the presser bar to lock the foot in place.

Each foot is marked with an identication letter.

t Pin
y Groove
u Identication letter

20

q

Removing and Attaching the Foot Holder

Remove the foot holder before using the dual feed foot or
darning foot.

CAUTION:

Always make sure to press the lockout key to lockout
the machine before replacing the foot holder.

e

t

w

Removing the foot holder

Raise the needle by pressing the needle up/down button.
Press the lockout key and raise the presser foot with the
presser foot lifter.

q Needle up/down button
w Lockout key
e Presser foot lifter

Loosen the setscrew and remove the foot holder.

r Setscrew
t Foot holder

r

t

r

y

Attaching the foot holder

Attach the foot holder to the presser bar from the rear.
Tighten the thumbscrew securely with the screwdriver.

y Presser bar

21

z x

w

q

e

w

Attaching the Dual Feed Foot

z Attach the dual feed holder to the presser bar.
q Dual feed holder

x Tighten the thumbscrew with your ngers.

Push the dual feed link to engage it with upper feed

drive.

w Dual feed link
e Upper feed drive

c

v

c Lower the presser foot lifter. Lower the needle to the

lowest position by turning the handwheel.

v Tighten the thumbscrew securely with the screwdriver.

w

Detaching and attaching the dual feed foot

Pull the foot toward you to remove it.
Insert the pins of the foot into the slits of the foot holder

and gently push the foot until it snaps into place.
q Pin
w Slit

q

22

q

w

Attaching the Darning Foot PD-H

Attach the darning foot PD-H to the presser bar by
putting the pin on the needle clamp screw.

q Pin
w Needle clamp screw

Tighten the thumbscrew rmly with the screwdriver.

Attaching the Embroidery Foot P

Attach the embroidery foot P to the presser bar from
behind (refer to page 109).

Tighten the thumbscrew rmly with the screwdriver.

Attaching the Couching Foot PC-1 or PC-2

Attach the couching foot PC-1 or PC-2 to the presser bar
from front (refer to page 149).

Tighten the thumbscrew rmly with the screwdriver.

23

z

Replacing the Needle Plate

Use the straight stitch needle plate when sewing with the
dual feed foot.

CAUTION:

Always make sure to press the lockout key to lockout
the machine before replacing the needle plate.

x

q

e

t

w

NOTE:

When the straight stitch needle plate is attached to
the machine, the patterns not suitable for the straight
stitch needle plate cannot be selected.

z Press the needle up/down button to raise the needle.
Press the lockout key.
Press the presser foot lifter button to raise the presser

foot.
q Needle up/down button
w Lockout key
e Presser foot lifter button

x Slide the extension table to the left to remove it.

Push down the needle plate release lever and the

needle plate will snap off.
r Needle plate release lever
t Needle plate

c

v

y

r

c A message will appear warning that the needle plate

is not secured.
Remove the needle plate to the right.
Place the straight stitch needle plate on the machine.

Set the left edge of the needle plate into the opening.

v Push down on the mark of the needle plate until it

locks in place.
Make sure the warning message disappears and the

straight stitch is automatically selected.
Turn the handwheel slowly and make sure that the

needle does not hit the needle plate.
Press the lockout key to unlock.

y Mark

CAUTION:

Never press the needle plate release lever while
running the machine.

24

e

q

Raising and Lowering the Presser Foot

You can raise and lower the presser foot with the presser

foot lifter button, the presser foot lifter or the knee lifter.

q Presser foot lifter button

w Presser foot lifter

e Extra lifted position

You can raise the presser foot about 7 mm (1/4˝) higher

than the normal up position by exerting more pressure

when lifting the presser foot lifter or knee lifter.

This allows for changing the needle plate, and also helps

you to place layers of thick fabrics.

w

e

w

NOTE:

The presser foot cannot be lowered with the presser
foot lifter if the foot was raised with the presser foot
lifter button.

NOTE:

Do not turn the handwheel or press the up/down
needle button when the presser foot is in the extra
lifted position.

Knee Lifter

The knee lifter is extremely helpful when sewing

patchwork, quilting etc, since it allows you to handle the

fabric while your knee controls the presser foot.

Attaching the knee lifter

Match the ribs on the knee lifter with the notches in the

knee lifter socket and insert the knee lifter.

q Knee lifter

w Rib

e Knee lifter socket

q

t

r

Adjusting the knee lifter

The angle of the knee lifter can be adjusted to t you.

Loosen the setscrew and slide the angle bar in or out to

adjust the angle of the knee lifter.

Tighten the setscrew to secure the angle bar.

r Setscrew

t Angle bar

Using the knee lifter

Push the knee lifter with your knee to easily move the

presser foot up and down.

You can control how high the foot rises by the amount of

knee pressure you exert.

25

w

Dropping the Feed Dog

The feed dog can be lowered for sewing on buttons, free

motion quilting etc.

Shift the drop feed lever toward you to lower the feed

dog.

q Drop feed lever
w Feed dog

Shift the drop feed lever away from you to raise the feed

dog, it will return to the up position when you start the
machine.

q

NOTE:

If you start the machine with the feed dog lowered, a
message will appear on the visual touch screen.

26

q

ORDINARY SEWING MODE

Ordinary Stitch Patterns

In the ordinary sewing mode, there are 4 categories

available.

q Utility stitches, Buttonhole and specialty stitches

w Decorative and quilting stitches

e Monogramming

r Sewing applications

Press one of the icon keys to select the category.

NOTE:

In this manual, the pattern number refers to the initial
for each group or category.
For example pattern #15 in the buttonholes and
specialty stitches is referred to as pattern B15.

q Utility stitches, Buttonholes and speciality

stitches

You can select utility stitches (U), buttonholes and

speciality stitches (B) in this category.

w

(A)

(Q)

(BR)

e

(H)

(S)

(D)

(L)

(PL)

(P)

(CS)

w Decorative and quilting stitches

This category consists of the following 10 groups.

Applique stitches (A)

Heirloom stitches (H)

Quilting stitches (Q)

Satin stitches (S)

Bridge stitches (BR)

Decorative stitches (D)

Long stitches (L)

Pictograph stitches (P)

Play stitches (PL)

Created Stitches (CS)

e Monogramming

You can program lettering as well as a combination of

characters.

27

r

r Sewing applications

You can select the appropriate stitch for a specic sewing
project and fabric type from the designated application in

this category.

r

q w

e

Function Keys in Ordinary Sewing Mode

q Foot-up key
If this option is turned on, the needle stops at the down
position and the presser foot will automatically go up
when the machine stops.
Press this key to turn this option on or off (refer to page

37).
w Twin needle key

Press this key to set the stitch width for twin needle
sewing (refer to page 65).

e Dual feed key
Press this key for dual feed sewing (refer to page 33).

r Startover key
If you stop sewing in the middle of a stitch pattern and
wish to sew the pattern again from the beginning, press
this key before you start sewing.
Press this key once to startover from the beginning of the
current pattern, or press this key twice to startover from

the beginning of the rst pattern of the combination (refer

to page 68).

t y

u

t Vertical mirror image key

Press this key to sew a vertical mirror image of the
selected pattern (refer to page 66).

y Horizontal mirror image key
Press this key to sew a horizontal mirror image of the
selected pattern. The key is grayed out if the selected
pattern cannot be turned over (refer to page 66).

u Tapering key
Press this key to open the dialog box for tapering (refer to
page 63).

28