Janome 1560 Instruction Manual

The Janome 1560 is a versatile sewing machine featuring 60 built-in stitches, one-step buttonhole, automatic needle threader, drop feed for free-motion sewing, adjustable stitch length and width, built-in thread cutter, top loading bobbin system, and multiple presser feet. Powered by 120V AC, this machine is suitable for beginners and experienced sewers alike. 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. Basic Sewing Operations 8. Maintenance & Cleaning 9. Accessories Included 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 60 built-in stitches, automatic needle threader, drop feed mechanism, top loading bobbin, built-in thread cutter, LED work light, free arm capability.

FeatureDescription
Built-in stitches60 utility, decorative, and stretch stitches
One-step buttonholeAutomatic buttonhole creation
Automatic needle threaderEasy threading with push-pull mechanism
Drop feedFor free-motion sewing and darning
Top loading bobbinEasy bobbin insertion and monitoring
Built-in thread cutterConvenient thread cutting on machine
LED work lightBright illumination of sewing area
Free armFor sewing sleeves and hard-to-reach areas
Stitch length adjustment0-4mm range
Stitch width adjustment0-5mm range

Installation & Setup

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

  1. Remove packaging materials and protective covers from machine.
  2. Attach power cord to machine and plug into 120V AC outlet.
  3. Install foot controller and connect to machine.
  4. Raise presser foot and install needle securely.
  5. Wind bobbin and thread machine following threading diagram.

WARNING! Keep fingers away from needle area during operation. Always turn off power when threading or changing accessories.

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; familiarize yourself with basic controls.

  1. Thread machine: Follow numbered threading path on machine.
  2. Insert bobbin: Place bobbin in case with thread unwinding counterclockwise.
  3. Select basic straight stitch: Turn stitch selection dial to position 1.
  4. Practice on scrap fabric: Test stitch length and tension settings.
  5. Experiment with different stitches: Try various built-in stitch patterns.

CAUTION! Always start with needle in highest position. Keep work area clean and well-lit.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Main controls located on front and side of machine. Stitch selection dial, stitch length dial, stitch width dial, reverse stitch button.

Basic Controls: Power switch, stitch selection dial, stitch length dial (0-4mm), stitch width dial (0-5mm), reverse stitch button, thread tension dial, bobbin winder, presser foot lever.

Stitch Selection: Turn dial to select from 60 built-in stitches. Stitch Length: Adjust for fabric thickness (shorter for fine fabrics, longer for heavy fabrics). Stitch Width: Adjust zigzag and decorative stitch width. Reverse: Hold button for reinforcement stitching at beginning and end of seams.

Stitch Selection

60 built-in stitches including straight, zigzag, stretch, and decorative patterns.

  1. Straight Stitch: Positions 1-3 for basic sewing and reinforcement
  2. Zigzag Stitch: Positions 4-6 for finishing edges and appliqué
  3. Blind Hem: Position 7 for invisible hemming
  4. Stretch Stitches: Positions 8-12 for knit fabrics
  5. Decorative Stitches: Positions 13-60 for embellishment
  6. Buttonhole: Dedicated position for automatic one-step buttonhole

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

Basic Sewing Operations

Step-by-step guide for common sewing tasks.

  1. Straight Seam: Select straight stitch, position fabric, lower presser foot, sew slowly at beginning.
  2. Zigzag Finish: Select zigzag stitch, sew along raw edge to prevent fraying.
  3. Buttonhole: Mark button position, select buttonhole stitch, place fabric under buttonhole foot.
  4. Free Motion: Drop feed dogs, attach darning foot, move fabric manually for quilting.
  5. Gathering: Use longer straight stitch, pull bobbin threads to gather fabric evenly.
  6. Topstitching: Use longer straight stitch and matching thread for decorative topstitching.

WARNING! Never pull fabric through machine - let feed dogs move fabric naturally.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

  1. Daily: Remove lint from bobbin area and feed dogs with brush provided.
  2. Weekly: Oil hook race and moving parts as per manual instructions.
  3. Monthly: Check needle for damage and replace if bent or dull.
  4. As needed: Clean exterior with soft, dry cloth only.

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

Accessories Included

Standard accessories provided with Janome 1560.

Warranty Information

Janome 1560 comes with limited warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. Warranty period: 25 years for mechanical parts, 5 years for electronic components, 2 years for labor. Registration required within 10 days of purchase. For warranty service, contact authorized Janome dealer with proof of purchase.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Thread breakingIncorrect threading/tensionRethread completely; adjust tension; check for burrs on needle.
Skip stitchesWrong needle/damaged needleReplace needle; ensure correct needle type for fabric.
Bobbin thread bunchingIncorrect bobbin insertionRemove and reinsert bobbin; check threading direction.
Machine not feedingFeed dogs lowered/dirtyRaise feed dogs; clean feed dog area.
Uneven stitchesTension issuesAdjust upper and bobbin tension; check thread quality.
Machine noisyLint buildup/needs oilingClean thoroughly; oil according to manual instructions.

Reset: Turn power off and on to reset electronic functions.

Service: Contact authorized Janome dealer for technical support and repairs.

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