Janome 500 Sewist Manual

The Janome 500 Sewist is a compact, user-friendly sewing machine designed for beginners and hobbyists. It features 12 built-in stitches, a 4-step buttonhole, easy stitch selection dial, built-in thread cutter, free arm capability, and adjustable stitch length and width. Powered by standard household electricity with a built-in LED light for enhanced visibility. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Compact sewing machine body, stitch selection dial, reverse stitch button, built-in thread cutter, free arm, accessory compartment, and foot pedal.

Installation & Setup

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

1. Remove machine from packaging: Lift machine by handle, remove all protective materials.
2. Install foot pedal: Connect to machine port, place on floor in comfortable position.
3. Connect power: Plug power cord into machine and wall outlet.
4. Install needle: Loosen needle clamp screw, insert needle with flat side to back, tighten screw.
5. Wind bobbin: Follow bobbin winding instructions in manual.

WARNING! Keep fingers away from needle area during operation. Always turn off and unplug when not in use.

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; follow setup steps for threading and basic operation.

1. Thread upper thread: Follow numbered threading path from spool pin to needle.
2. Insert bobbin: Place bobbin in case with thread unwinding counterclockwise.
3. Select stitch: Turn stitch selection dial to desired stitch pattern.
4. Adjust settings: Set stitch length and width according to fabric type.
5. Test sew: Use scrap fabric to test stitch quality and tension.

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

Specifications

• Machine Type: Compact Mechanical Sewing Machine
• Built-in Stitches: 12 stitches including utility and decorative
• Buttonhole: 4-step automatic buttonhole
• Stitch Length: Adjustable 0-4mm
• Stitch Width: Adjustable 0-5mm
• Presser Feet: Includes zigzag foot, buttonhole foot, zipper foot
• Bobbin: Top-loading, class 15 transparent bobbin
• Needle: Standard domestic sewing machine needle system 130/705 H
• Power Source: 120V AC, 60Hz
• Weight: 13.2 lbs (6 kg)
• Warranty: 25-year limited warranty

Controls and Settings

Main controls located on front and side of machine body.

Front Panel: Stitch selection dial, stitch length dial, stitch width dial, reverse stitch button, built-in thread cutter.

Stitch Selection: Turn dial to select from 12 built-in stitches. Stitch Length: Adjust for fabric thickness (shorter for delicate, longer for heavy). Stitch Width: Adjust zigzag and decorative stitch width. Reverse: Hold button to reinforce stitching. Thread Tension: Adjust dial for balanced stitches (4-5 for normal fabrics).

Stitch Selection

12 built-in stitches for various sewing applications.

1. Straight Stitch: Basic sewing, topstitching (position 1)
2. Zigzag Stitch: Seam finishing, appliqué (position 2)
3. Three-Step Zigzag: Stretch fabrics, mending (position 3)
4. Blind Hem: Nearly invisible hems (position 4)
5. Elastic Stitch: Sewing elastic, decorative (position 5)
6. Shell Stitch: Decorative edge finishing (position 6)
7. Multiple Zigzag: Decorative, satin stitching (positions 7-12)

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

Basic Sewing Techniques

Fundamental sewing operations for beginners.

1. Starting to Sew: Place fabric under presser foot, lower foot, press pedal gently.
2. Straight Seams: Guide fabric evenly, use seam guide lines on needle plate.
3. Turning Corners: Stop with needle down in fabric, lift presser foot, pivot fabric.
4. Reverse Stitching: Hold reverse button at beginning and end of seams.
5. Zigzag Finishing: Use zigzag stitch along raw edges to prevent fraying.
6. Buttonholes: Mark position, attach buttonhole foot, follow 4-step process.
7. Free Arm Sewing: Remove accessory compartment for circular sewing.

WARNING! Never pull fabric while sewing - let feed dogs move fabric.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

1. Daily: Brush out lint from bobbin area and feed dogs.
2. Weekly: Oil hook race and moving parts (use sewing machine oil only).
3. Monthly: Clean tension discs with unwaxed dental floss.
4. Needle Replacement: Change needle after every project or 8 hours of sewing.
5. Storage: Cover machine when not in use, store in dry area.

CAUTION! Always unplug machine before cleaning or maintenance.

Accessories

Standard accessories included with Janome 500 Sewist.

Safety Information

Important safety precautions for sewing machine operation.

• Always disconnect power when changing needles, cleaning, or not in use
• Keep fingers away from moving needle and feed dogs
• Do not sew over pins - remove before needle reaches them
• Use proper lighting to avoid eye strain
• Keep hair and loose clothing away from moving parts
• Supervise children and beginners closely
• Use only Janome-approved accessories and parts

Troubleshooting

Service: For technical support, contact Janome at 1-800-631-0183 or visit www.janome.com