Janome 108 Free Manual

The Janome 108 Free is a compact, user-friendly sewing machine designed for beginners and hobbyists. It features basic stitching functions, easy threading system, built-in stitches, adjustable stitch length and width, free arm capability, drop feed for free-motion sewing, built-in needle threader, and reverse stitching. Powered by standard household electrical outlet. 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. Free-Motion Sewing 8. Maintenance & Care 9. Regulatory Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Compact sewing machine body, Free arm, Stitch selection dial, Tension control, Bobbin winder, Built-in needle threader, Foot pedal, Power cord.

Feature	Description
Free arm	For sewing cuffs, sleeves, and other tubular items
Stitch selection dial	Selects from built-in stitch patterns
Tension control dial	Adjusts thread tension for different fabrics
Bobbin winder	Automatically winds bobbin with upper thread
Built-in needle threader	Assists with threading the needle
Foot pedal	Controls sewing speed
Reverse stitch button	Reinforces stitching at beginning and end
Drop feed lever	Lowers feed dogs for free-motion sewing
Stitch length dial	Adjusts stitch length from 0-4mm
Power switch	Turns machine on/off

Installation & Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable, flat surface.

Connect power: Plug power cord into machine and wall outlet.
Attach foot pedal: Connect pedal to machine port.
Install needle: Loosen needle clamp screw, insert needle with flat side to back.
Wind bobbin: Place bobbin on winder, thread through tension disc, press pedal.
Thread machine: Follow threading guide printed on machine.

WARNING! Keep fingers away from needle area during operation. Unplug when not in use.

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; test on scrap fabric first.

Select stitch: Turn dial to desired stitch pattern.
Adjust settings: Set stitch length and tension according to fabric.
Thread machine: Use built-in needle threader if needed.
Insert bobbin: Place bobbin in case, pull thread through slot.
Begin sewing: Place fabric under presser foot, lower foot, press pedal gently.

CAUTION! Always use correct needle size for fabric type. Replace bent or dull needles immediately.

Specifications

Machine Type: Compact mechanical sewing machine
Stitches: 8 built-in stitches including straight, zigzag, and decorative
Stitch Length: Adjustable 0-4mm
Stitch Width: Up to 5mm for zigzag stitches
Free Arm: Yes, for tubular sewing
Needle System: HAx1 standard domestic needles
Bobbin: Class 15 transparent bobbin
Power Source: Standard household electrical outlet
Weight: Lightweight for easy portability
Warranty: Limited manufacturer warranty

Controls and Settings

Access all functions via front panel controls. Main Controls: Power switch, Stitch selection dial, Stitch length dial, Reverse stitch button, Bobbin winder.

Adjustment Features: Tension control, Presser foot pressure, Feed dog position, Needle position.

Stitch Selection: Straight stitch, Zigzag stitch, Blind hem stitch, Elastic stitch, Decorative stitches. Tension: Adjust for different fabric weights (lower for lightweight, higher for heavyweight). Maintenance: Oil points marked in manual, regular cleaning required.

Stitch Selection

Built-in stitches for various sewing applications.

Straight stitch: For basic sewing and seams (position 1)
Zigzag stitch: For finishing edges and decorative work (position 2)
Blind hem: For nearly invisible hems (position 3)
Elastic stitch: For stretch fabrics (position 4)
Decorative stitches: For embellishment (positions 5-8)

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

Free-Motion Sewing

Drop feed dogs for quilting and decorative work.

Lower feed dogs: Use drop feed lever at back of machine.
Attach darning foot: Replace standard presser foot.
Adjust tension: May need to reduce tension slightly.
Control movement: Guide fabric manually in any direction.
Return to normal: Raise feed dogs when finished.

WARNING! Keep hands clear of needle area. Practice control on scrap fabric first.

Maintenance & Care

Regular cleaning and oiling for optimal performance.

Daily: Remove lint from bobbin area and feed dogs.
Weekly: Oil designated points with sewing machine oil.
Monthly: Clean tension discs and check needle bar.
Storage: Cover machine when not in use, store in dry area.

CAUTION! Unplug machine before cleaning or maintenance. Use only recommended oils.

Regulatory Information

UL Listed: Certified for electrical safety in North America. CE Certified: Meets European safety standards. Copyright © 2025 Janome; trademarks of Janome America, Inc. For support, visit www.janome.com or contact 1-800-631-0183. Made for household use only.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Machine won't start	Power connection	Check power cord connection; ensure switch is on.
Thread breaking	Tension/needle	Reduce tension; check for burrs on needle; rethread.
Uneven stitches	Threading/tension	Rethread both upper and lower threads; adjust tension.
Fabric not feeding	Feed dogs	Ensure feed dogs are raised; check presser foot pressure.
Needle breaking	Installation/fabric	Ensure needle inserted correctly; use proper needle for fabric.
Bobbin issues	Winding/insertion	Rewind bobbin evenly; ensure inserted in correct direction.

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