Janome 5124 Manual

The Janome 5124 is a 24-stitch sewing machine with built-in stitches, one-step buttonhole, free arm capability, drop feed for darning and free-motion sewing, built-in needle threader, top drop-in bobbin system, stitch length and width adjustment, reverse sewing, and built-in LED light. Powered by 120V AC, 60Hz. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Basic Sewing Operations 7. Advanced Functions 8. Maintenance & Cleaning 9. Regulatory Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 24 built-in stitches, free arm, drop feed mechanism, built-in needle threader, top drop-in bobbin, stitch selection dial, LED work light.

FeatureDescription
Built-in stitches24 stitches including utility, decorative, and stretch
One-step buttonholeAutomatic buttonhole creation
Free armFor sewing cuffs and tubular items
Drop feedFor darning and free-motion sewing
Built-in needle threaderEasy needle threading
Top drop-in bobbinEasy bobbin loading and viewing
Stitch length dialAdjustable stitch length (0-4mm)
Stitch width dialAdjustable stitch width (0-5mm)
Reverse sewing leverFor reinforcing stitches
LED lightIlluminates work area

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable surface.

  1. Remove machine from packaging and all protective materials.
  2. Place machine on sturdy table or sewing cabinet.
  3. Connect foot control to machine and plug into power outlet.
  4. Install needle and thread machine according to threading diagram.
  5. Wind and insert bobbin following instructions.

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

First-Time Setup

Prepare machine for first use with proper threading and bobbin installation.

  1. Raise presser foot and needle to highest position.
  2. Follow threading path indicated on machine.
  3. Use built-in needle threader for easy threading.
  4. Wind bobbin and place in bobbin case.
  5. Pull up bobbin thread.
  6. Select straight stitch for initial testing.
  7. Test sew on scrap fabric to ensure proper operation.

CAUTION! Always use correct needle for fabric type. Ensure proper needle installation.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Main controls: Stitch selection dial, stitch length dial, stitch width dial, reverse lever, presser foot pressure dial.

Stitch Selection: Turn dial to select desired stitch pattern (1-24).

Stitch Length: Adjust for shorter or longer stitches (0-4mm).

Stitch Width: Adjust for zigzag and decorative stitches (0-5mm).

Reverse Sewing: Hold lever down to sew in reverse for reinforcement.

Presser Foot Pressure: Adjust for different fabric thicknesses.

Basic Sewing Operations

Fundamental sewing techniques and operations.

  1. Straight Stitch: Select stitch 1, adjust length as needed.
  2. Zigzag Stitch: Select stitch 2, adjust width and length.
  3. Buttonhole: Select buttonhole stitch, follow markings for perfect buttonholes.
  4. Reverse Stitching: Use reverse lever at beginning and end of seams.
  5. Free Arm Sewing: Remove accessory storage for tubular items.
  6. Drop Feed: Lower feed dogs for darning and quilting.

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

Advanced Functions

Special features and advanced sewing techniques.

  1. Decorative Stitches: Use stitches 3-24 for decorative effects.
  2. Stretch Stitches: Use appropriate stitches for knit fabrics.
  3. Darning: Lower feed dogs and use darning foot.
  4. Free-motion Quilting: Lower feed dogs for creative quilting.
  5. Button Sewing: Use button sewing foot for secure attachment.
  6. Zipper Installation: Use zipper foot for perfect zipper application.

WARNING! Always use correct presser foot for each operation.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

  1. Clean lint and dust from bobbin area regularly.
  2. Oil machine as indicated in maintenance schedule.
  3. Change needles regularly (every 8-10 hours of sewing).
  4. Clean exterior with soft, dry cloth.
  5. Store machine covered when not in use.

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

Regulatory Information

UL Listed: Complies with UL safety standards. FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with interference limits. Copyright © 2025 Janome; trademarks of Janome America, Inc. For support, visit www.janome.com or contact 1-800-631-0183.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Machine not runningPower connectionCheck power cord connection; ensure foot control is plugged in properly.
Thread breakingTension/needle issuesCheck thread tension; replace needle; ensure proper threading.
Uneven stitchesTension/threadingRe-thread machine; adjust tension; check bobbin installation.
Needle breakingInstallation/fabricEnsure needle is properly inserted; use correct needle for fabric.
Bobbin issuesWinding/installationRewind bobbin evenly; ensure bobbin is inserted correctly.
Skip stitchesNeedle/timingReplace needle; check needle size for fabric; service if timing issue.

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

Janome 5124 Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025