Janome 344 Instruction Manual

The Janome 344 is a versatile sewing machine featuring 34 built-in stitches, 4-step buttonhole, drop feed for free-motion sewing, built-in needle threader, top loading bobbin system, stitch width and length adjustment, reverse sewing, and variable speed control. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation & Setup 3. Basic Operation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Stitch Selection 7. Maintenance & Cleaning 8. Accessories 9. Regulatory Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 34 built-in stitches, 4-step buttonhole, drop feed mechanism, built-in needle threader, top loading bobbin system, stitch width and length adjustment.

Feature	Description
Built-in stitches	34 utility, decorative, and stretch stitches
4-step buttonhole	Easy buttonhole creation in 4 simple steps
Drop feed	Lower feed dogs for free-motion sewing
Built-in needle threader	Automatic needle threading system
Top loading bobbin	Easy bobbin insertion and viewing
Stitch width adjustment	0-5mm width adjustment
Stitch length adjustment	0-4mm length adjustment
Reverse sewing	Reinforce seams with reverse stitch
Variable speed control	Speed adjustment slider
Power switch	Turns machine on/off

Installation & Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable surface.

Remove machine from packaging and place on sturdy table.
Connect foot control to machine and plug into power outlet.
Install needle: Loosen needle clamp screw, insert needle with flat side to back.
Wind bobbin: Place thread on spool pin, follow threading guide.
Insert bobbin: Drop bobbin into case with thread counterclockwise.
Thread upper thread: Follow numbered threading path.

WARNING! Always unplug machine when not in use or during maintenance.

Basic Operation

Power on machine; select desired stitch and settings.

Select stitch: Turn stitch selection dial to desired pattern.
Adjust stitch width: Use width dial for zigzag and decorative stitches.
Adjust stitch length: Use length dial for stitch density.
Thread needle: Use built-in needle threader for easy threading.
Begin sewing: Place fabric under presser foot, lower foot, press foot control.
Reverse stitching: Press reverse button to secure beginning/end of seam.

CAUTION! Keep fingers away from moving needle. Always use proper needle for fabric type.

Specifications

Built-in Stitches: 34 stitches including utility, decorative, and stretch
Buttonhole: 4-step manual buttonhole
Stitch Width: 0-5mm adjustable
Stitch Length: 0-4mm adjustable
Bobbin System: Top loading, class 15 transparent bobbin
Needle System: HAx1 standard domestic needles
Presser Feet: 4 included: zigzag, zipper, buttonhole, button sewing
Power Source: 110V AC, 60Hz
Dimensions: Standard sewing machine size
Weight: Lightweight portable design

Controls and Settings

Main controls: Stitch selection dial, stitch width dial, stitch length dial, reverse button, power switch, foot control.

Stitch Selection: Turn dial to select from 34 built-in stitches. Width Adjustment: 0-5mm for zigzag and decorative stitches. Length Adjustment: 0-4mm for stitch density. Reverse: Press and hold to reinforce seams. Drop Feed: Lever to lower feed dogs for free-motion work.

Stitch Selection

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

Straight Stitch: For basic sewing and seams
Zigzag Stitch: For finishing edges and appliqué
Blind Hem: For nearly invisible hems
Elastic Stitch: For knit fabrics and stretch seams
Decorative Stitches: Various patterns for embellishment
Buttonhole: 4-step process for perfect buttonholes

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

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

Clean bobbin area: Remove bobbin case and brush out lint.
Oil machine: Use sewing machine oil on moving parts as directed.
Change needle regularly: Replace after 8-10 hours of sewing.
Clean feed dogs: Use small brush to remove lint buildup.
Cover machine when not in use to prevent dust accumulation.

CAUTION! Always unplug machine before cleaning or maintenance.

Accessories

Standard accessories included with Janome 344:

Zigzag Foot
Zipper Foot
Buttonhole Foot
Button Sewing Foot
Class 15 Bobbins (4)
Needles (assorted)
Seam Ripper/Lint Brush
Screwdriver
Foot Control
Power Cord

Regulatory Information

UL Listed: Complies with safety standards for household sewing machines. Copyright © 2025 Janome; trademarks of Janome Sewing Machine Co., Ltd. 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 and outlet; ensure power switch is on
Thread breaking	Tension/needle issues	Rethread machine; check needle for damage; adjust tension
Uneven stitches	Threading/tension	Rethread both upper and bobbin threads; clean bobbin area
Fabric not feeding	Feed dogs lowered	Raise feed dogs; check presser foot pressure
Needle breaking	Bent needle/wrong size	Replace needle; ensure correct needle for fabric type
Bobbin issues	Incorrect insertion	Remove and reinsert bobbin; ensure thread direction correct

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