Janome 555 Manual

The Janome 555 is a versatile sewing machine designed for home use with advanced features including multiple stitch patterns, automatic needle threading, adjustable stitch length and width, built-in buttonholer, free arm capability, and easy bobbin winding system. Suitable for beginners and experienced sewers alike, offering reliable performance for various fabric types. 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. Maintenance & Cleaning 8. Accessories 9. Regulatory Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Sewing machine head, foot pedal, power cord, accessory kit, instruction manual.

FeatureDescription
Automatic needle threaderEasy threading with push-button mechanism
Built-in stitch patterns55 built-in stitches including utility, decorative, and stretch
One-step buttonholerAutomatic buttonhole sizing and stitching
Free arm capabilityConvertible for sewing cuffs and sleeves
Drop feedFor free-motion sewing and quilting
Stitch length/width controlAdjustable settings for different fabrics
Reverse stitch leverFor reinforcing seams
Bobbin winding systemQuick and easy bobbin preparation
LED work lightBright illumination of sewing area
Power/light switchConvenient front-mounted controls

Installation & Setup

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

  1. Remove packaging materials and protective covers from machine.
  2. Attach foot pedal to machine and plug into power outlet.
  3. Install needle according to manual instructions (flat side to back).
  4. Wind bobbin and insert into bobbin case following threading diagram.
  5. Thread upper thread through automatic needle threader system.

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

First-Time Operation

Plug in machine and turn on power switch.

  1. Test machine on scrap fabric to ensure proper threading.
  2. Select basic straight stitch for initial testing.
  3. Practice controlling speed with foot pedal - start slow.
  4. Adjust stitch length and tension as needed for fabric type.
  5. Experiment with reverse stitching for seam reinforcement.

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

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Main control panel includes stitch selection dial, stitch length dial, stitch width dial, and reverse stitch button.

Stitch Selection: Turn dial to choose from 55 built-in stitches. Stitch Length: Adjust from 0-4mm for different fabric types. Stitch Width: Adjust from 0-5mm for zigzag and decorative stitches. Tension Control: Dial adjusts upper thread tension (4-6 for most fabrics).

Special Functions: Automatic needle threader - push lever down and pull thread through. Drop feed - lever lowers feed dogs for free motion work. Free arm - remove accessory storage to access free arm.

Stitch Selection

Machine offers 55 built-in stitches including:

  1. Basic stitches: Straight, zigzag, triple stretch
  2. Decorative stitches: Scallop, honeycomb, diamond patterns
  3. Buttonhole stitches: One-step automatic buttonhole
  4. Blind hem stitches: For invisible hemming
  5. Overcast stitches: For seam finishing
  6. Elastic stitches: For knit and stretch fabrics
  7. Quilting stitches: For patchwork and quilting projects

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

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

  1. Unplug machine before any cleaning or maintenance.
  2. Remove needle plate and clean lint buildup with brush provided.
  3. Oil machine according to manual instructions (use sewing machine oil only).
  4. Wipe exterior with soft, dry cloth - no harsh chemicals.
  5. Store machine with cover when not in use to prevent dust accumulation.

CAUTION! Never use compressed air to clean machine as it can force lint deeper into mechanism.

Accessories

Standard accessories included with Janome 555:

AccessoryPurpose
All-purpose footGeneral sewing
Zipper footInstalling zippers
Buttonhole footAutomatic buttonholes
Blind hem footInvisible hemming
Overedge footSeam finishing
Bobbin (4)Extra bobbins
Needles (assorted)Different sizes for various fabrics
Seam ripper/brushFor corrections and cleaning
ScrewdriverFor needle plate removal

Regulatory Information

UL Listed: Certified for safety standards in United States and Canada. FCC Compliance: Meets electromagnetic interference requirements. Copyright © Janome America, Inc. All rights reserved. Manufactured under strict quality control standards. For technical support or service, contact authorized Janome dealers or visit www.janome.com.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Machine not runningPower connectionCheck power cord connection; ensure foot pedal is plugged in properly
Thread breakingTension/thread qualityAdjust tension; use better quality thread; check for rough spots on needle
Uneven stitchesThreading/tensionRe-thread both upper and bobbin threads; adjust tension settings
Needle breakingNeedle installation/fabricEnsure needle inserted correctly; use proper needle for fabric type
Bobbin issuesWinding/insertionRewind bobbin evenly; ensure bobbin inserted in correct direction
Skip stitchesNeedle type/wearReplace needle; use correct needle type for fabric being sewn

Service: Contact authorized Janome service center for repairs. Customer support: 1-800-631-0183

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