Janome 1200D Serger Manual

The Janome 1200D is a professional-grade serger/overlock machine designed for high-performance sewing applications. It features differential feed, rolled hem capability, 2/3/4 thread conversion, easy threading system, built-in rolled hem foot, adjustable stitch length and width, free arm capability, and built-in thread cutter. 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. Threading Instructions 7. Stitch Applications 8. Maintenance & Cleaning 9. Accessories 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Differential feed system, color-coded threading, built-in rolled hem, free arm, stitch length/width controls, built-in thread cutter.

Feature	Description
Differential Feed	Prevents stretching or puckering on various fabrics
Rolled Hem	Creates professional narrow rolled hems
2/3/4 Thread Conversion	Versatile stitch options for different applications
Color-coded Threading	Easy threading with numbered guides
Built-in Thread Cutter	Convenient thread cutting at front of machine
Free Arm	Easy access for sleeves and circular items
Stitch Length Control	Adjustable from 1-4mm
Stitch Width Control	Adjustable from 3-7mm
Tension Dials	Individual dials for upper and lower loopers
Presser Feet	Includes standard and rolled hem feet

Installation & Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable sewing table.

Remove packaging materials and protective covers.
Install foot controller: Plug into machine and power outlet.
Position machine: Ensure adequate workspace and lighting.
Install accessories: Attach appropriate presser foot for your project.
Thread machine: Follow color-coded threading guides.

WARNING! Keep fingers away from moving needles during operation. Always disconnect power when threading or changing needles.

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; test on scrap fabric first.

Thread machine: Follow numbered threading sequence.
Select stitch type: Choose 2, 3, or 4 thread configuration.
Adjust tensions: Start with recommended settings for fabric type.
Test stitch: Use scrap fabric to check stitch quality.
Adjust differential feed: Set according to fabric requirements.

CAUTION! Always start with needle in highest position. Keep work area clean and organized.

Specifications

Stitch Types: 2-thread, 3-thread, 4-thread overlock
Stitch Length: 1-4mm adjustable
Stitch Width: 3-7mm adjustable
Differential Feed: 0.7-2.0 ratio
Speed: Up to 1300 stitches per minute
Needles: HAx1 SP system, size 11/80 or 14/90
Presser Feet: Standard overlock and rolled hem included
Power Requirements: 120V AC, 60Hz
Weight: 15.4 lbs (7 kg)
Dimensions: 13.4" x 11.8" x 12.2"

Controls and Settings

Main controls located on front and side panels.

Front Panel: Power switch, stitch length dial, stitch width dial, tension dials (4), presser foot lever, built-in thread cutter.

Side Panel: Differential feed dial, free arm release, handwheel.

Stitch Length: 1-4mm (higher numbers = longer stitches). Stitch Width: 3-7mm (adjusts cutting width). Tension Dials: Upper looper, lower looper, right needle, left needle. Differential Feed: 0.7-2.0 (below 1.0 = compression, above 1.0 = stretching).

Threading Instructions

Follow numbered threading path for each thread.

Raise presser foot and raise needle to highest position.
Follow color-coded guides: Upper looper (blue), lower looper (green), needles (red/yellow).
Thread upper looper first, then lower looper, then needles.
Ensure threads are properly seated in tension discs.
Pull threads under presser foot toward back of machine.

Tip: Use good quality thread and keep machine covered when not in use.

Stitch Applications

Versatile stitching for various fabrics and projects.

4-thread safety stitch: For seams requiring extra strength
3-thread overlock: Standard finishing for most fabrics
2-thread overlock: Lightweight fabrics and decorative edges
Rolled hem: Narrow hem for delicate fabrics and scarves
Flatlocking: Creates decorative flat seams
Gathering: Use differential feed for controlled gathering
Lettuce edge: Stretch fabrics for decorative wavy edge

WARNING! Always test stitch on scrap fabric first. Adjust tensions and differential feed as needed.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance.

Daily: Brush away lint from feed dogs and loopers
Weekly: Oil according to instruction manual
Monthly: Remove throat plate and clean thoroughly
As needed: Replace needles and check for burrs

CAUTION! Always unplug machine before cleaning or maintenance. Use only Janome recommended oil.

Accessories

Standard accessories included with Janome 1200D.

Standard overlock foot
Rolled hem foot
Lint brush
Thread spool caps (4)
Needles (assorted sizes)
Hex wrenches
Power cord and foot controller
Instruction manual
Hard cover

Warranty Information

Janome 1200D comes with limited warranty. 25-year warranty on mechanical parts, 5-year warranty on electrical components, 1-year warranty on labor. Warranty valid only when machine is purchased from authorized Janome dealer. For warranty service, contact authorized Janome service center with proof of purchase.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Thread breaking	Incorrect threading/tension	Rethread completely; adjust tension settings.
Fabric puckering	Differential feed setting	Adjust differential feed; test on scrap fabric.
Uneven stitches	Dull needle/tension	Replace needle; check and adjust tensions.
Machine jams	Lint buildup/thread tangle	Clean feed dogs and loopers; remove tangled threads.
Loops on fabric	Lower looper tension	Increase lower looper tension; check threading.
Poor rolled hem	Incorrect foot/threading	Use rolled hem foot; follow specific threading instructions.

Service: Contact authorized Janome service center for repairs. Customer support: 1-800-631-0183