Janome 5812 Sewing Machine 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 needle threader, stitch length/width adjustment, reverse sewing, free arm capability, and built-in accessory storage. 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. Threading & Bobbin 8. Maintenance & Cleaning 9. Accessories 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 12 built-in stitches, free arm, drop feed, built-in needle threader, reverse sewing, stitch length/width controls.

FeatureDescription
Built-in stitches12 utility and decorative stitches including straight, zigzag, stretch
4-step buttonholeEasy one-step buttonhole creation
Free armFor sewing cuffs, sleeves, and other tubular items
Drop feedFor free-motion sewing and darning
Built-in needle threaderAutomatic needle threading system
Stitch length controlAdjustable from 0-4mm
Stitch width controlAdjustable up to 5mm
Reverse sewing leverFor reinforcing stitches
Built-in storageAccessory compartment in free arm
Power switchOn/off control with built-in light

Installation & Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable surface.

  1. Remove machine from packaging and remove all protective materials.
  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 following threading diagram.
  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; test basic functions.

  1. Select straight stitch (position 1 on dial).
  2. Place scrap fabric under presser foot.
  3. Lower presser foot lever.
  4. Press foot control gently to begin sewing.
  5. Practice basic stitching and reverse sewing.
  6. Experiment with different stitch settings.

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

Specifications

Controls and Settings

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

Stitch Selection: Turn pattern dial to select desired stitch (1-12). Stitch Length: Adjust from 0 (darning) to 4 (basting). Stitch Width: Adjust zigzag and decorative stitch width. Reverse: Hold lever for backstitching. Presser Foot Pressure: Fixed for general sewing.

Stitch Selection

Pattern dial positions 1-12 correspond to different stitches:

  1. Straight stitch (center needle position)
  2. Zigzag stitch
  3. Multiple zigzag stitch
  4. Blind hem stitch
  5. Stretch stitch
  6. Decorative stitch 1
  7. Decorative stitch 2
  8. Elastic stitch
  9. Shell stitch
  10. Scallop stitch
  11. Overcast stitch
  12. Buttonhole position

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

Threading & Bobbin

Proper threading ensures smooth operation.

  1. Raise needle to highest position using handwheel.
  2. Place spool on spool pin.
  3. Follow numbered threading path on machine.
  4. Use built-in needle threader for easy needle threading.
  5. Wind bobbin using bobbin winding system.
  6. Insert bobbin with thread rotating counterclockwise.
  7. Pull bobbin thread up through needle plate.

WARNING! Ensure presser foot is raised when threading. Lower when sewing.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance.

  1. Unplug machine before cleaning.
  2. Remove needle plate and clean lint buildup.
  3. Oil moving parts as indicated in manual (use sewing machine oil only).
  4. Wipe exterior with soft, dry cloth.
  5. Check needle regularly for damage.
  6. Replace needle after 8-10 hours of sewing.

CAUTION! Never use compressed air to clean machine. Avoid getting oil on rubber parts.

Accessories

Standard accessories included:

AccessoryUse
All-purpose footGeneral sewing
Zipper footZippers and piping
Buttonhole footCreating buttonholes
Darning/embroidery footFree-motion work
Seam ripperRemoving stitches
BrushCleaning lint
Additional needlesVarious fabric types
Bobbins (4)Extra thread colors
ScrewdriverNeedle plate removal

Regulatory Information

UL Listed: Complies with UL safety standards. FCC Part 15: Class B digital device. Copyright © Janome America, Inc. For support, visit www.janome.com or contact 1-800-631-0183. Made in Taiwan. 25-year limited warranty applies to mechanical parts.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Machine won't runPower connectionCheck power cord; ensure foot control is connected; check power switch.
Thread breakingThreading/tensionRethread machine; check for rough spots; adjust tension.
Needle breakingNeedle/bobbinReplace bent needle; ensure proper needle installation; check bobbin area.
Uneven stitchesThreading/tensionRethread both top and bobbin threads; clean lint; adjust tension.
Fabric not feedingFeed dogsCheck feed dog position; clean under needle plate; check presser foot pressure.
Machine skipping stitchesNeedle/threadReplace needle; use correct needle type; check thread quality.

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

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