janome 1008 manual

The Janome 1008 is a mechanical sewing machine designed for home use, featuring 8 built-in stitches, 4-step buttonhole, drop feed for free-motion sewing, built-in thread cutter, and easy stitch selection dial. Powered by standard household electrical outlet with foot pedal speed control. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation & Setup 3. First-Time Operation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Stitch Selection 7. Threading & Bobbin 8. Maintenance & Cleaning 9. Safety Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Mechanical sewing machine with 8 built-in stitches, stitch selection dial, reverse stitch lever, bobbin winder, built-in thread cutter, and free arm capability.

FeatureDescription
Stitch selection dialSelects from 8 built-in stitches including straight, zigzag, and decorative
Reverse stitch leverFor reinforcing seams at beginning and end
4-step buttonholeCreates perfect buttonholes in four simple steps
Drop feed leverLowers feed dogs for free-motion sewing and darning
Built-in thread cutterConvenient thread cutting on face plate
Free armRemovable accessory compartment for sewing cuffs and sleeves
Bobbin winderAutomatic bobbin winding system
Stitch length dialAdjusts stitch length from 0-4mm
Stitch width dialAdjusts zigzag width from 0-5mm
Foot pedalControls sewing speed

Installation & Setup

Unpack and inspect all components. Place on stable, level surface.

  1. Remove machine from packaging: Lift machine by base, not handwheel.
  2. Install foot pedal: Connect to machine port, place on floor in comfortable position.
  3. Connect power: Plug power cord into machine and wall outlet.
  4. Install needle: Loosen needle clamp screw, insert needle with flat side to back, tighten screw.
  5. Wind bobbin: Follow bobbin winding instructions in threading section.

WARNING! Machine is heavy; lift with care using both hands. Ensure stable surface to prevent tipping.

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; follow step-by-step threading guide.

  1. Thread upper thread: Follow numbered threading path from spool to needle.
  2. Insert bobbin: Place bobbin in case with thread unwinding counterclockwise.
  3. Select stitch: Turn stitch selection dial to desired pattern.
  4. Adjust stitch length: Set for fabric type (2.5mm for medium weight fabrics).
  5. Test sew: Use scrap fabric to check tension and stitch quality.

CAUTION! Keep fingers away from needle area during operation. Always turn off when not in use.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Main controls located on front and side of machine. Stitch selection dial, stitch length dial, stitch width dial, reverse stitch lever, bobbin winder, and handwheel.

Stitch Selection: Turn dial to select from 8 stitches: straight, zigzag, blind hem, stretch stitches, and decorative patterns.

Stitch Length: Adjust from 0 (for darning) to 4mm (basting). Normal sewing: 2.5mm.

Stitch Width: Adjust zigzag width from 0-5mm. Straight stitch: set to 0.

Reverse Stitch: Hold lever down to sew in reverse for seam reinforcement.

Stitch Selection

8 built-in stitches for various sewing applications.

  1. Straight stitch: For seams, topstitching, quilting
  2. Zigzag stitch: For finishing edges, appliqué, stretch fabrics
  3. Blind hem stitch: For nearly invisible hems
  4. Stretch stitch: For knit fabrics and elastic
  5. Decorative stitches: For embellishment and decorative sewing
  6. 4-step buttonhole: Creates professional buttonholes

Tip: Always test stitch on scrap fabric before sewing project.

Threading & Bobbin

Proper threading ensures smooth operation and quality stitches.

  1. Upper threading: Follow numbered path - raise presser foot, place spool, thread through guides, eye of needle.
  2. Bobbin winding: Place spool on pin, thread through bobbin winder tension, press bobbin onto winder shaft, engage winder.
  3. Bobbin insertion: Open bobbin cover, place bobbin with thread unwinding counterclockwise, pull thread through slot.
  4. Bring up bobbin thread: Hold upper thread, turn handwheel toward you until needle goes down and up, pull upper thread to bring up bobbin thread.

WARNING! Always raise needle to highest position before threading. Ensure presser foot is raised when threading.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

  1. Daily: Brush out lint from bobbin area and feed dogs
  2. Weekly: Oil hook race and moving parts with sewing machine oil
  3. Monthly: Clean and oil bobbin case mechanism
  4. As needed: Replace needle after 8-10 hours of sewing

CAUTION! Unplug machine before cleaning or maintenance. Use only sewing machine oil.

Safety Information

FCC compliant for home use. UL listed electrical components. Always disconnect power when not in use, changing needles, or performing maintenance. Keep hands away from moving parts. Do not operate with damaged cord or plug.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Thread breakingIncorrect threading/tensionRethread completely; check for burrs on needle; adjust tension.
Skipped stitchesWrong needle/damaged needleReplace needle; ensure correct needle for fabric type.
Uneven stitchesIncorrect tension/bobbinCheck bobbin threading; clean bobbin area; adjust tension.
Machine jamsThread buildup/lintRemove bobbin case; clean hook race area; rethread.
No powerPower connection/foot pedalCheck power cord connections; ensure foot pedal is plugged in.

Service: Contact authorized Janome service center for repairs. Warranty: 25-year limited warranty.

Support: 1-800-631-0183; www.janome.com

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