Janome 555 Sewing Machine Manual

The Janome 555 is a versatile electronic sewing machine featuring 55 built-in stitches, one-step buttonhole, automatic needle threader, drop feed for free-motion sewing, adjustable stitch length and width, built-in LED light, top-loading bobbin system, and multiple presser feet. Powered by 120V AC, 60Hz. 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 Techniques 8. Maintenance & Cleaning 9. Accessories 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Electronic control panel, built-in LED light, automatic needle threader, top-loading bobbin system, free arm, multiple presser feet.

FeatureDescription
Built-in stitches55 stitches including utility, decorative, and stretch
One-step buttonholeAutomatic buttonhole sizing and stitching
Automatic needle threaderEasy threading with push-button mechanism
Drop feedFree-motion sewing capability
Top-loading bobbinEasy bobbin insertion and viewing
LED lightBright illumination of sewing area
Stitch length/widthAdjustable for custom sewing
Free armFor sewing cuffs and tubular items
Reverse stitchReinforce seams with reverse sewing
Speed controlAdjustable sewing speed

Installation & Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable surface.

  1. Remove packaging materials and protective covers
  2. Place machine on sturdy table or sewing cabinet
  3. Connect foot control pedal to machine
  4. Plug power cord into machine and wall outlet
  5. Install needle and thread machine
  6. Wind and insert bobbin

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

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; follow setup procedure.

  1. Thread machine: Follow threading guide printed on machine
  2. Insert bobbin: Place bobbin in case with thread unwinding counterclockwise
  3. Select stitch: Choose desired stitch using dial or buttons
  4. Test sew: Practice on scrap fabric to adjust tension and settings
  5. Adjust settings: Modify stitch length and width as needed

CAUTION! Always start with needle in highest position. Use proper needle for fabric type.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Access functions via control panel and dials. Main controls: Power switch, stitch selection dial, stitch length dial, stitch width dial, reverse button.

Control Panel: Stitch selection buttons, automatic needle threader, thread cutter, LED light switch.

Stitch Settings: Length (0-5mm), Width (0-7mm), tension adjustment (0-9). Special Functions: Mirror image, memory stitch, speed control slider. Basic Operations: Reverse stitching, bobbin winding, needle position adjustment.

Stitch Selection

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

  1. Turn stitch selection dial to desired stitch number
  2. Refer to stitch chart for pattern identification
  3. Adjust stitch length and width as needed
  4. Test stitch on scrap fabric before sewing project
  5. Use appropriate presser foot for selected stitch

Tip: Always test stitches on similar fabric before starting your project.

Basic Sewing Techniques

Fundamental sewing operations for beginners and experienced users.

  1. Straight stitching: Basic seam construction
  2. Zigzag stitching: Edge finishing and stretch fabrics
  3. Buttonholes: Automatic one-step process
  4. Zipper insertion: Using zipper foot
  5. Gathering: Adjust tension for fabric gathering
  6. Free-motion: Drop feed dog for quilting
  7. Decorative stitching: Select decorative patterns
  8. Reverse stitching: Secure seam beginnings and ends

WARNING! Keep fingers clear of moving needle. Always watch needle position.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

  1. Unplug machine before cleaning
  2. Remove needle plate and clean lint buildup
  3. Oil moving parts as specified in manual
  4. Clean bobbin area regularly
  5. Check needle for damage and replace regularly
  6. Cover machine when not in use

CAUTION! Use only Janome recommended oil. Do not use compressed air for cleaning.

Accessories

Standard accessories included with Janome 555 sewing machine.

AccessoryPurpose
Zigzag FootGeneral purpose sewing
Zipper FootZipper insertion
Buttonhole FootAutomatic buttonholes
Blind Hem FootInvisible hemming
Overedge FootEdge finishing
Satin Stitch FootDecorative stitching
Extra BobbinsAdditional bobbins
NeedlesAssorted sizes
Seam RipperStitch removal
BrushLint cleaning

Warranty Information

Janome 555 sewing machine comes with 25-year limited warranty covering mechanical parts. Electronic components covered for 2 years. Labor covered for 1 year. Warranty valid only with proof of purchase from authorized dealer. For service, contact authorized Janome service center.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Machine won't startPower connectionCheck power cord; ensure foot control is connected; check outlet.
Thread breakingTension/needleRe-thread machine; check tension; replace needle; use quality thread.
Skipped stitchesNeedle/threadReplace needle; ensure proper threading; check needle size for fabric.
Bobbin issuesInsertion/windingRe-insert bobbin; ensure proper winding; clean bobbin area.
Uneven stitchesTension/fabricAdjust upper and lower tension; use stabilizer for stretch fabrics.

Service: Contact authorized Janome service center. Do not attempt repairs yourself.

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

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