Janome Harmony 1017 Sewing Machine Manual

The Janome Harmony 1017 is a versatile mechanical sewing machine featuring 17 built-in stitches, 4-step buttonhole, drop feed for free-motion sewing, built-in needle threader, top loading bobbin system, and adjustable stitch length/width. Suitable for beginners and intermediate sewers, it handles various fabrics from lightweight to medium-weight materials. 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 Guide 7. Threading & Bobbin Winding 9. Maintenance & Cleaning 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Mechanical sewing machine with 17 stitches, built-in needle threader, top loading bobbin, free arm, accessory storage, and foot pedal control.

FeatureDescription
Built-in stitches17 stitches including straight, zigzag, stretch, and decorative
4-step buttonholeEasy buttonhole creation with precise sizing
Drop feedFree-motion sewing capability
Built-in needle threaderAutomatic needle threading assistance
Top loading bobbinEasy bobbin access and threading
Free armConvenient for sewing sleeves and cuffs
Stitch length controlAdjustable from 0-4mm
Stitch width controlAdjustable up to 5mm
Reverse stitch leverReinforce stitching at beginning and end
Accessory storageBuilt-in compartment for feet and accessories

Installation & Setup

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

  1. Remove machine from packaging: Remove all protective materials and tape.
  2. Install foot pedal: Connect foot pedal cord to machine port.
  3. Power connection: Plug power cord into machine and wall outlet.
  4. Install needle: Loosen needle clamp screw, insert needle with flat side to back.
  5. Wind bobbin: Follow bobbin winding instructions in threading section.

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

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; follow basic setup procedures.

  1. Thread machine: Follow threading path indicated on machine.
  2. Insert bobbin: Place bobbin in bobbin case with thread pulling counterclockwise.
  3. Select stitch: Turn stitch selection dial to desired pattern.
  4. Adjust settings: Set stitch length and width as needed.
  5. Test sew: Use scrap fabric to test stitch quality and tension.

CAUTION! Always start with needle in highest position. Use proper needle for fabric type.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Main controls: Stitch selection dial, stitch length dial, stitch width dial, reverse stitch lever.

Stitch Selection: Turn dial to select from 17 built-in stitches. Stitch Length: Adjust from 0 (darning) to 4mm (basting). Stitch Width: Adjust zigzag and decorative stitch width. Reverse Stitch: Hold lever to sew in reverse for reinforcement.

Tension Control: Upper thread tension dial (0-9). Presser Foot Pressure: Adjustable for different fabric weights. Feed Dogs: Lower for free-motion sewing, raise for regular sewing.

Stitch Selection Guide

Reference guide for selecting appropriate stitches for different sewing tasks.

Stitch NumberStitch TypeRecommended Use
1Straight StitchBasic sewing, seams
2Zigzag StitchFinishing edges, appliqué
3-4Stretch StitchesKnits and stretch fabrics
5-8Decorative StitchesEmbellishment, topstitching
9-17Utility StitchesVarious sewing applications

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

Threading & Bobbin Winding

Proper threading ensures smooth operation and quality stitches.

  1. Raise needle to highest position using handwheel.
  2. Place spool on spool pin and follow threading path marked on machine.
  3. Use built-in needle threader: Push lever down, hook thread through needle eye.
  4. Bobbin winding: Place empty bobbin on winder, guide thread through tension disc.
  5. Insert bobbin: Drop bobbin into case with thread pulling counterclockwise.
  6. Pull up bobbin thread: Hold upper thread, turn handwheel to bring up bobbin thread.

WARNING! Ensure machine is unplugged during threading. Keep thread path clear.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

  1. Daily: Brush out lint from bobbin area and feed dogs.
  2. Weekly: Oil machine according to lubrication points in manual.
  3. Monthly: Clean race hook and surrounding mechanism.
  4. Needle replacement: Change needle after 8-10 hours of sewing.

CAUTION! Unplug machine before cleaning. Use only Janome recommended oil.

Regulatory Information

UL Listed: Complies with UL safety standards. FCC Part 15: Class B digital device. Copyright © Janome America, Inc. For technical support and service, contact authorized Janome dealers or visit www.janome.com. Made for household use.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Thread breakingIncorrect threading/tensionRethread machine; adjust tension; check for burrs on needle
Skipped stitchesWrong needle/damaged needleReplace needle; ensure correct needle for fabric
Uneven stitchesPoor threading/tensionRethread completely; clean race hook; adjust tension
Machine jamsThread buildup/poor bobbinRemove bobbin; clean race area; reinsert bobbin properly
Noise during operationLack of lubrication/lintClean and oil machine; check for loose parts
Fabric not feedingFeed dogs loweredRaise feed dogs; check presser foot pressure

Service: Contact authorized Janome service center. 1-800-631-0183

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