Janome 659 Mechanical Sewing Machine Instruction Manual

The Janome 659 is a mechanical sewing machine featuring 15 built-in stitches, 4-step buttonhole, free arm capability, drop feed for darning and quilting, built-in thread cutter, stitch length and width adjustment, reverse sewing, and built-in 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 & Setup 3. First-Time Operation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Functions 6. Stitch Selection 7. Threading & Bobbin 8. Maintenance & Cleaning 9. Safety Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Mechanical stitch selection dial, free arm, built-in stitches, drop feed, reverse lever, stitch length/width controls.

FeatureDescription
Built-in stitches15 utility and decorative stitches including straight, zigzag, stretch
4-step buttonholeEasy buttonhole creation in 4 simple steps
Free arm capabilityRemovable extension table for sewing sleeves and cuffs
Drop feed mechanismFor darning, quilting, and free-motion sewing
Stitch length adjustment0-4mm stitch length control
Stitch width adjustment0-5mm zigzag width control
Reverse sewing leverFor reinforcing seams
Built-in thread cutterConvenient thread cutting on machine
Built-in lightIlluminates sewing area
Power and light switchSeparate controls for machine and light

Installation & Setup

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

  1. Remove machine from packaging: Lift carefully by carrying handle.
  2. Attach extension table: Slide into position until it clicks.
  3. Install foot controller: Plug into machine's foot control port.
  4. Connect power: Plug power cord into machine and wall outlet.
  5. Install needle: Loosen needle clamp screw, insert needle with flat side to back.
  6. Wind bobbin: Follow bobbin winding instructions.

WARNING! Machine is heavy; use proper lifting technique. Ensure stable surface placement.

First-Time Operation

Prepare machine for initial use following these steps.

  1. Thread upper thread: Follow threading path marked on machine.
  2. Insert bobbin: Place bobbin in bobbin case with thread unwinding counterclockwise.
  3. Select stitch: Turn stitch selection dial to desired stitch pattern.
  4. Adjust settings: Set stitch length and width as needed.
  5. Test sew: Use scrap fabric to test stitch quality and tension.
  6. Practice basic stitches: Begin with straight stitch and zigzag.

CAUTION! Keep fingers away from needle area during operation.

Specifications

Controls and Functions

Main controls located on front and side of machine.

Front Panel: Stitch selection dial, stitch length dial, stitch width dial, reverse lever, bobbin winder, handwheel.

Stitch Selection: Turn dial to select from 15 built-in stitches. Stitch Length: 0-4mm adjustment for stitch density. Stitch Width: 0-5mm adjustment for zigzag and decorative stitches. Reverse Lever: Hold down for backstitching. Bobbin Winder: For winding bobbin without threading needle. Handwheel: Manual control of needle position.

Stitch Selection

15 built-in stitches for various sewing applications.

  1. Straight Stitch: Basic sewing, topstitching (positions 1-2)
  2. Zigzag Stitch: Overcasting, appliqué (position 3)
  3. Multiple Zigzag: Elastic application, mending (position 4)
  4. Blind Hem: Nearly invisible hemming (position 5)
  5. Stretch Stitches: For knit fabrics (positions 6-8)
  6. Decorative Stitches: Embellishment (positions 9-15)
  7. Buttonhole: 4-step process using positions A-D

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

Threading & Bobbin

Proper threading essential for quality stitches.

  1. Upper Threading: Raise presser foot, follow numbered path from spool to needle.
  2. Bobbin Winding: Place spool on pin, thread through tension disc, wind bobbin.
  3. Bobbin Insertion: Open bobbin cover, insert bobbin with thread unwinding counterclockwise.
  4. Bring Up Bobbin Thread: Hold upper thread, turn handwheel toward you to catch bobbin thread.
  5. Thread Tension: Adjust tension dial if stitches are too loose or tight.

WARNING! Ensure machine is off during threading. Keep fingers clear of moving parts.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance.

  1. Daily: Brush out lint from bobbin area and feed dogs.
  2. Weekly: Oil hook race and moving parts with sewing machine oil.
  3. Monthly: Clean tension discs with folded fabric or dental floss.
  4. Needle Replacement: Change needle after 8-10 hours of sewing.
  5. Storage: Cover machine when not in use to prevent dust accumulation.

CAUTION! Unplug machine before cleaning or maintenance.

Safety Information

Important safety precautions for machine operation.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Thread breakingIncorrect threading/tensionRe-thread machine; adjust tension; check for burrs on needle
Skip stitchesWrong needle/damaged needleReplace needle; ensure correct needle for fabric type
Bobbin thread bunchingIncorrect bobbin insertionRe-insert bobbin; ensure thread unwinds counterclockwise
Machine won't runPower/controller issuesCheck power connection; ensure foot controller is plugged in
Uneven stitchesTension issuesAdjust upper and bobbin tension; re-thread completely
Needle hitting presser footWrong foot/needle positionEnsure correct presser foot; check needle is inserted properly
Fabric not feedingFeed dogs loweredRaise feed dogs; clean feed dog area of lint

Service: Contact authorized Janome service center for repairs.

Support: Visit www.janome.com or contact customer service.

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