Janome Harmony 1017 Instruction Manual

The Janome Harmony 1017 is a versatile mechanical sewing machine designed for home use, featuring 17 built-in stitches, 4-step buttonhole, drop feed for free-motion sewing, built-in needle threader, top-loading bobbin system, stitch length/width adjustment, reverse sewing, and free arm capability. 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 Operations 8. Maintenance & Cleaning 9. Accessories 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Mechanical sewing machine with 17 built-in stitches, free arm, built-in needle threader, top-loading bobbin system, stitch selection dial, and reverse lever.

FeatureDescription
Built-in stitches17 utility and decorative stitches including straight, zigzag, and stretch stitches
4-step buttonholeEasy buttonhole creation in four simple steps
Drop feedLower feed dogs for free-motion sewing and darning
Built-in needle threaderAutomatic needle threading for easy setup
Top-loading bobbinEasy bobbin insertion with clear cover
Stitch length adjustmentAdjustable from 0-4mm for different fabric types
Stitch width adjustmentAdjustable from 0-5mm for zigzag and decorative stitches
Reverse sewing leverReinforce stitches at beginning and end of seams
Free arm capabilityConvertible for sewing sleeves and other tubular items
Power and light switchConvenient front-mounted controls

Installation & Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable sewing table.

  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 socket.
  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 in manual.

WARNING! Keep fingers away from needle area during operation. Always turn off power when threading or changing needles.

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; follow setup procedures.

  1. Thread machine: Follow numbered threading path on machine.
  2. Use needle threader: Push down lever to automatically thread needle.
  3. Insert bobbin: Place bobbin in case with thread unwinding counterclockwise.
  4. Select stitch: Turn stitch selection dial to desired pattern.
  5. Test sew: Use scrap fabric to test stitch and tension settings.
  6. Adjust settings: Use stitch length and width dials as needed.

CAUTION! Always start with needle in highest position. Keep work area well-lit.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Main controls located on front and side of machine. Stitch Selection Dial: Rotate to choose from 17 stitches. Stitch Length Dial: Adjust from 0-4mm. Stitch Width Dial: Adjust from 0-5mm for zigzag stitches.

Additional Controls: Reverse Sewing Lever, Drop Feed Lever, Bobbin Winder, Handwheel, Power/Light Switch, Foot Control Pedal.

Thread Tension: Adjust with tension dial (2-6 for most fabrics). Needle Position: Center position standard. Presser Foot Pressure: Spring-loaded for even feeding.

Stitch Selection

17 built-in stitches for various sewing applications:

  1. Straight Stitch: Basic sewing, topstitching
  2. Zigzag Stitch: Seam finishing, appliqué
  3. 3-Step Zigzag: Stretch fabrics, mending
  4. Blind Hem Stitch: Nearly invisible hems
  5. Stretch Stitches: Knits and stretch fabrics
  6. Decorative Stitches: Shell, multiple zigzag patterns
  7. Buttonhole Stitch: 4-step manual buttonhole

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

Basic Sewing Operations

Step-by-step sewing procedures:

  1. Raise presser foot and needle to highest position
  2. Place fabric under presser foot, lower presser foot
  3. Hold thread tails, start sewing slowly
  4. Guide fabric gently, let machine feed fabric
  5. Use reverse lever to reinforce beginning and end
  6. Raise needle, then presser foot to remove fabric
  7. Cut threads using built-in thread cutter

Special Functions: Free-motion sewing (drop feed dogs), button sewing, zipper installation, blind hemming.

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 (use sewing machine oil only)
  3. Monthly: Check needle for damage, replace if bent or dull
  4. As needed: Clean exterior with soft, dry cloth

CAUTION! Unplug machine before cleaning or maintenance. Use only recommended sewing machine oil.

Accessories

Standard accessories included:

Regulatory Information

UL Listed: Complies with UL 1270 standard for household sewing machines. FCC Part 15: Class B digital device. Copyright © 2025 Janome America, Inc. All rights reserved. For technical support and service, contact authorized Janome dealers or visit www.janome.com.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Thread breakingIncorrect threading/tensionRethread completely; reduce tension; check for burrs on needle.
Skip stitchesWrong needle/damaged needleReplace needle; ensure correct needle type for fabric.
Uneven stitchesIncorrect tension/threadingCheck upper and bobbin threading; adjust tension.
Machine jamsThread jam in bobbin areaRemove bobbin case; clean out tangled thread; reinsert properly.
No powerPower connection/fuseCheck power cord connections; verify outlet working; check household fuse.
Needle breaksBent needle/wrong installationReplace needle; ensure flat side faces correct direction; don't pull fabric.

Service: Contact authorized Janome service center for repairs. Customer support: 1-800-631-0183

Janome Harmony 1017 Instruction Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025