Janome Artistic Quilter 18 Sit Down Manual

The Janome Artistic Quilter 18 is a professional-grade sit-down quilting machine featuring an 18-inch throat space, built-in stitch regulator, advanced needle threader, knee lifter, and comprehensive quilting functions. Designed for both free-motion and straight-line quilting with adjustable speed control, extension table, and multiple presser feet options. 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. Accessory Connections 7. Quilting Techniques 8. Maintenance Features 10. Care & Cleaning 11. Regulatory Information 12. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 18-inch throat space, Built-in Stitch Regulator (BSR), Automatic Needle Threader, Knee Lifter, Extension Table, LED Work Light, Speed Control Slider.

Feature	Description
Throat Space	18-inch working area for large quilting projects
Built-in Stitch Regulator	Maintains consistent stitch length during free-motion quilting
Automatic Needle Threader	Easy threading with push-button operation
Knee Lifter	Hands-free presser foot lifting
Extension Table	Provides larger work surface for quilting
LED Work Light	Bright illumination of work area
Speed Control Slider	Adjustable sewing speed from 0-1000 stitches per minute
Needle Up/Down	Programmable needle position
Thread Cutter	Built-in automatic thread cutting
Presser Feet	Multiple specialized feet included for quilting

Installation & Setup

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

Assemble extension table: Attach to machine base using provided screws.
Install presser foot: Lower presser foot lever and snap into place.
Thread machine: Follow numbered threading path from spool to needle.
Connect power: Plug into appropriate electrical outlet.
Install bobbin: Wind bobbin and place in bobbin case.

WARNING! Machine is heavy; use proper lifting technique. Ensure stable placement to prevent tipping.

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; test basic functions before beginning projects.

Thread machine: Use automatic needle threader for initial setup.
Test stitch regulator: Engage BSR and practice free-motion movement.
Adjust speed control: Set comfortable maximum speed using control slider.
Practice with scrap fabric: Test various stitches and tension settings.
Set needle position: Program preferred needle up/down position.

CAUTION! Keep fingers away from needle area during operation. Always use proper lighting.

Specifications

Throat Space: 18 inches
Stitch Regulator: Built-in BSR technology
Maximum Speed: 1000 stitches per minute
Needle Positions: Programmable up/down
Work Area: Extension table included
Lighting: LED work light
Threading: Automatic needle threader
Power Source: Standard electrical outlet
Weight: Approximately 35 pounds
Warranty: Limited manufacturer warranty

Controls and Settings

Access functions via control panel and manual adjustments. Front Panel: Power Switch, Speed Control, Stitch Length, Tension Dial.

Advanced Controls: BSR On/Off, Needle Up/Down, Thread Cutter, Knee Lifter sensitivity adjustment.

Stitch Settings: Length adjustment, tension control, BSR sensitivity. Machine Settings: Speed limits, needle position memory, LED brightness. Maintenance: Bobbin warning, oil indicators, error code display.

Accessory Connections

Extension Table: Mounts to machine base. Additional Feet: Snap-on system for quick changes. BSR Module: Built-in connection for stitch regulator.

Turn off machine before changing accessories.
Align accessories properly with mounting points.
Secure all attachments before operation.

Tip: Keep accessory compartment organized for easy access during projects.

Quilting Techniques

Supports free-motion, straight-line, and decorative quilting.

Free-motion with BSR: Engage stitch regulator for consistent stitches.
Straight-line quilting: Use guide bars and walking foot.
Stippling: Practice continuous curve patterns.
Meander quilting: Random patterns for background filling.
Custom designs: Create personalized quilting patterns.
Tension adjustment: Balance upper and bobbin thread tension.
Speed control: Adjust for different techniques and fabric types.
Knee lifter use: Lift presser foot without using hands.

WARNING! Always use proper foot for each technique. Keep work area clear of obstructions.

Maintenance Features

Automatic Maintenance Reminders: Oil change indicators, cleaning alerts. Self-diagnostic: Error code display for common issues. Bobbin Monitoring: Low bobbin warning system.

Care & Cleaning

Unplug before cleaning. Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance.

Daily: Remove lint from bobbin area and feed dogs.
Weekly: Oil moving parts as indicated in manual.
Monthly: Thorough cleaning of internal mechanisms.
As needed: Replace needles and check for wear.

CAUTION! Use only recommended oils and cleaners. Never spray liquids directly on electrical components.

Regulatory Information

UL Listed: Complies with safety standards for household sewing machines. FCC Part 15: Class B digital device compliance. Copyright © 2025 Janome; trademarks of Janome America, Inc. Patent protected technology including BSR system. For support, visit www.janome.com or contact 1-800-631-0183.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Uneven stitches	Tension issues/threading	Re-thread machine; adjust tension; check bobbin.
BSR not working	Connection/settings	Ensure BSR engaged; check foot control; restart machine.
Thread breaking	Needle/thread quality	Replace needle; use quality thread; check threading path.
Machine jams	Lint buildup/timing	Clean bobbin area; check for obstructions; professional service if needed.
No power	Electrical connection	Check power cord; outlet function; circuit breaker.

Reset: Power off/on to clear error codes.

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