Janome 344 LX Manual

The Janome 344 LX is a versatile sewing machine designed for home use, featuring 34 built-in stitches, one-step buttonhole, automatic needle threader, drop feed for free-motion sewing, built-in thread cutter, and easy stitch selection dial. 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. Basic Sewing Operations 8. Maintenance & Cleaning 9. Regulatory Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Stitch selection dial, automatic needle threader, drop feed lever, built-in thread cutter, reverse stitch button, stitch width/length adjustment, bobbin winding system.

FeatureDescription
Stitch selection dialSelects from 34 built-in stitches including utility, decorative, and stretch stitches
Automatic needle threaderEasily threads needle with lever mechanism
Drop feed leverLowers feed dogs for free-motion sewing and darning
Built-in thread cutterConveniently cuts thread at side of machine
Reverse stitch buttonSecures stitches at beginning and end of sewing
Stitch width adjustmentAdjusts stitch width from 0-5mm
Stitch length adjustmentAdjusts stitch length from 0-4mm
Bobbin winding systemEasy bobbin winding with built-in system
One-step buttonholeCreates perfect buttonholes in one easy step
Power/light switchTurns machine and built-in light on/off

Installation & Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable sewing table.

  1. Remove machine from packaging: Lift machine carefully from box.
  2. Install foot controller: Plug into machine and place on floor.
  3. Connect power: Plug power cord into machine and electrical outlet.
  4. Install accessories: Attach standard presser foot and other accessories.
  5. Wind bobbin: Follow bobbin winding instructions in manual.

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

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; follow basic setup steps.

  1. Thread machine: Follow threading path indicated on machine.
  2. Insert bobbin: Place bobbin in bobbin case with thread unwinding counterclockwise.
  3. Select stitch: Turn stitch selection dial to desired stitch.
  4. Adjust settings: Set stitch width and length as needed.
  5. Test sew: Practice on scrap fabric before starting project.

CAUTION! Always use proper needle for fabric type. Replace bent or damaged needles immediately.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Main controls located on front and side of machine. Stitch selection dial for choosing stitches, stitch width dial, stitch length dial, reverse stitch button, power/light switch.

Additional Features: Automatic needle threader lever, drop feed lever, built-in thread cutter, bobbin winding system, presser foot pressure adjustment (if applicable).

Stitch Settings: Width adjustment (0-5mm), length adjustment (0-4mm), reverse stitching for reinforcement. Special Functions: Drop feed for free-motion work, automatic needle threading, built-in thread cutting.

Stitch Selection

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

  1. Turn stitch selection dial to desired stitch number.
  2. Consult stitch chart for recommended settings.
  3. Adjust stitch width and length as needed for fabric.
  4. Test stitch on scrap fabric before sewing project.

Tip: Use straight stitch (position 1) for basic sewing, zigzag for finishing edges, and stretch stitches for knit fabrics.

Basic Sewing Operations

Follow these steps for basic sewing tasks.

  1. Raise presser foot and position fabric under foot.
  2. Lower presser foot and hold thread tails.
  3. Start sewing slowly, then increase speed as comfortable.
  4. Use reverse stitch at beginning and end to secure stitches.
  5. Use built-in thread cutter or scissors to trim threads.
  6. For buttonholes: Select buttonhole stitch, place button in foot, and follow automatic sequence.
  7. For free-motion: Lower feed dogs and move fabric manually.

WARNING! Never pull fabric while sewing - let feed dogs move fabric. Keep fingers clear of moving needle.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance.

  1. Unplug machine before cleaning or maintenance.
  2. Clean lint from bobbin area and feed dogs regularly.
  3. Oil machine as indicated in manual (if required).
  4. Replace needle regularly (every 8-10 hours of sewing).
  5. Use soft brush to remove dust and lint.

CAUTION! Use only Janome recommended needles and accessories. Do not use compressed air for cleaning.

Regulatory Information

UL Listed for safety standards. Complies with applicable electrical safety regulations. Copyright © Janome America, Inc. For technical support and service, visit www.janome.com or contact authorized Janome dealer. Made for household use.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Machine not runningPower connection/foot controlCheck power cord connections; ensure foot controller is plugged in properly.
Thread breakingThreading/tension issuesRe-thread machine completely; check tension settings; use quality thread.
Needle breakingBent needle/wrong installationReplace needle; ensure needle is inserted correctly and fully up in clamp.
Uneven stitchesThreading/tension/bobbinRe-thread upper and lower threading; check bobbin insertion; adjust tension.
Fabric not feedingFeed dogs lowered/presser footRaise feed dogs; ensure presser foot is lowered; check for lint under feed dogs.
Machine skipping stitchesNeedle/blunt needleReplace needle; ensure correct needle type for fabric; check needle size.

Service: Contact authorized Janome dealer for repairs. Do not attempt to repair electrical components yourself.

Support: www.janome.com or local authorized dealer

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