Janome 5812 Manual

The Janome 5812 is a versatile mechanical sewing machine featuring 12 built-in stitches, 4-step buttonhole, drop feed for free-motion sewing, built-in thread cutter, adjustable stitch length and width, front-loading bobbin system, built-in light, 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. Basic Operation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Stitch Selection 7. Buttonhole Function 8. Maintenance & Cleaning 9. Regulatory Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Mechanical sewing machine with 12 stitches, stitch selection dial, reverse stitch lever, stitch width/length controls, built-in thread cutter, free arm, drop feed mechanism.

FeatureDescription
Built-in stitches12 utility and decorative stitches
4-step buttonholeEasy buttonhole creation in 4 simple steps
Drop feedLower feed dogs for free-motion sewing
Built-in thread cutterConvenient thread cutting on machine face
Free armRemovable extension table for cylindrical sewing
Reverse stitchReinforce seams with reverse sewing lever
Stitch length controlAdjustable from 0-4mm
Stitch width controlAdjustable up to 5mm
Built-in lightIlluminates sewing area
Front-loading bobbinEasy bobbin access and threading

Installation & Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable surface at comfortable working height.

  1. Remove machine from packaging: Lift carefully from carrying case.
  2. Position machine: Place on sturdy table with adequate workspace.
  3. Connect foot control: Plug into machine front port.
  4. Connect power: Plug machine into standard electrical outlet.
  5. Install needle: Loosen needle clamp screw, insert needle with flat side to back.
  6. Wind bobbin: Follow bobbin winding instructions in manual.

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

Basic Operation

Power on machine; follow threading diagram for proper setup.

  1. Thread upper thread: Follow numbered threading path from spool to needle.
  2. Insert bobbin: Place bobbin in case with thread unwinding counterclockwise.
  3. Select stitch: Turn stitch selection dial to desired pattern.
  4. Adjust settings: Set stitch length and width as needed.
  5. Begin sewing: Place fabric under presser foot, lower foot, press foot control.
  6. Reverse stitching: Hold reverse lever to reinforce seam ends.

CAUTION! Always raise needle to highest position before removing fabric.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Main controls located on machine front and right side. Stitch Selection Dial: Turn to select from 12 stitch patterns. Stitch Length Dial: Adjust from 0 (darning) to 4 (basting). Stitch Width Dial: Adjust zigzag width from 0-5mm. Reverse Stitch Lever: Hold down for reverse sewing.

Additional Features: Built-in thread cutter on machine face, drop feed lever for free-motion work, free arm capability, built-in light switch, handwheel for manual control, presser foot lever, bobbin winder spindle.

Stitch Selection

12 built-in stitches for various sewing applications:

  1. Straight stitch: Basic sewing, forward and reverse
  2. Zigzag stitch: Overcasting, appliqué, decorative work
  3. Blind hem stitch: Nearly invisible hems
  4. Stretch stitch: For knit fabrics
  5. Decorative stitches: Multiple pattern options
  6. Buttonhole stitch: 4-step process for perfect buttonholes

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

Buttonhole Function

Create perfect buttonholes in 4 simple steps:

  1. Step 1: Zigzag left side - position fabric, lower presser foot
  2. Step 2: Bar tack forward - creates buttonhole end
  3. Step 3: Zigzag right side - mirror of step 1
  4. Step 4: Bar tack backward - completes buttonhole

Use buttonhole foot for consistent results. Measure button and mark fabric for accurate placement.

WARNING! Always use the proper presser foot for buttonhole function.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance. Unplug machine before cleaning.

  1. Remove lint: Use small brush to clean bobbin area and feed dogs
  2. Oil machine: Apply sewing machine oil as indicated in manual
  3. Clean exterior: Use soft, dry cloth only
  4. Needle replacement: Change needle regularly, especially after hitting pins
  5. Storage: Cover machine when not in use to prevent dust accumulation

CAUTION! Never use compressed air; it can force lint deeper into mechanism.

Regulatory Information

UL Listed: Complies with US safety standards. CE Marked: Meets European Union requirements. Copyright © Janome America, Inc. For technical support and service, contact authorized Janome dealers. Warranty registration required for 25-year limited warranty coverage. Keep original receipt for warranty validation.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Thread breakingIncorrect threading/tensionRethread completely; check needle condition; adjust tension.
Skip stitchesBent needle/wrong needleReplace needle; ensure correct needle type for fabric.
Machine jamsThread buildup/bobbin issuesRemove upper thread and bobbin; clean bobbin area; rethread.
Uneven stitchesTension problemsAdjust upper tension; check bobbin threading; clean machine.
No powerPower connectionCheck power cord connections; ensure outlet is working; check foot control.
Fabric not feedingFeed dogs loweredCheck drop feed lever position; raise feed dogs for normal sewing.

Service: Contact authorized Janome service center for repairs. Do not attempt to repair electrical components.

Support: Visit www.janome.com or contact customer service at 1-800-631-0183

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