Janome JEM 639 Manual

The Janome JEM 639 is a compact, lightweight sewing machine designed for beginners and portable sewing projects. It features 9 built-in stitches, easy stitch selection dial, built-in thread cutter, free arm capability, automatic bobbin winding, and adjustable stitch length and width. Powered by standard household electrical outlet, this machine is ideal for basic sewing, mending, and craft projects. 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. Safety Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Compact sewing machine body, stitch selection dial, thread tension dial, stitch length dial, free arm, built-in thread cutter, accessory compartment.

FeatureDescription
Stitch selection dialSelects from 9 built-in stitches
Thread tension dialAdjusts upper thread tension
Stitch length dialControls stitch length (0-4mm)
Free armRemovable extension table for sewing sleeves and cuffs
Built-in thread cutterConvenient thread cutting on machine
Automatic bobbin windingEasy bobbin preparation
Reverse stitch leverFor reinforcing stitches
Presser foot pressure dialAdjusts pressure for different fabrics
Drop feedFor free-motion sewing
Light switchControls work area illumination

Installation & Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable, level surface.

  1. Remove machine from packaging: Carefully lift machine from box.
  2. Attach power cord: Plug into machine and electrical outlet.
  3. Install foot controller: Connect to machine port.
  4. Set up accessories: Place accessory box nearby for easy access.
  5. Install needle: Follow threading diagram for proper installation.

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

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; follow step-by-step threading guide.

  1. Thread upper thread: Follow numbered threading path marked on machine.
  2. Wind bobbin: Use automatic bobbin winding system.
  3. Insert bobbin: Place in bobbin case with thread pulling counterclockwise.
  4. Select stitch: Turn stitch selection dial to desired pattern.
  5. Test sew: Use scrap fabric to test stitch quality and tension.

CAUTION! Always start with practice fabric. Ensure proper needle installation to prevent damage.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Main controls located on front and side of machine. Stitch selection dial, stitch length dial, thread tension dial, reverse stitch lever.

Dial Functions: Stitch selection (1-9 positions), stitch length (0-4mm), thread tension (0-9), presser foot pressure adjustment.

Stitch Settings: Straight stitch, zigzag, blind hem, stretch stitches, decorative stitches. Tension: Adjust for different fabric types and thread weights. Feed Dogs: Drop feed lever for free-motion work. Light: Separate switch for work area illumination.

Stitch Selection

9 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 Stitch: Knits and stretch fabrics
  6. Decorative Stitches: Various patterns for embellishment
  7. Buttonhole Stitch: 4-step buttonholes
  8. Basting Stitch: Long stitches for temporary sewing
  9. Reinforcement Stitch: Extra strong seams

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

Basic Sewing Operations

Step-by-step guide for common sewing tasks.

  1. Straight Seams: Guide fabric evenly under presser foot
  2. Zigzag Edges: Finish raw fabric edges to prevent fraying
  3. Hemming: Use blind hem stitch for professional results
  4. Buttonholes: Follow 4-step process for perfect buttonholes
  5. Free Arm Sewing: Remove extension table for sleeves and cuffs
  6. Reverse Stitching: Use reverse lever to secure seam ends
  7. Thread Changing: Always re-thread with presser foot up
  8. Bobbin Replacement: Check bobbin thread regularly

WARNING! Never pull fabric while sewing. Let feed dogs move fabric automatically.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

  1. Daily: Brush out lint from bobbin area and feed dogs
  2. Weekly: Oil moving parts as per manual instructions
  3. Monthly: Clean entire machine, check for wear
  4. Needle Replacement: Change needle after every project
  5. Professional Service: Annual check-up recommended

CAUTION! Always unplug machine before cleaning or maintenance.

Accessories

Standard accessories included with Janome JEM 639.

AccessoryPurpose
All-purpose footGeneral sewing
Zipper footInstalling zippers
Buttonhole footMaking buttonholes
Bobbin (extra)Additional bobbins
NeedlesReplacement needles
Seam ripperRemoving stitches
BrushCleaning lint
ScrewdriverNeedle plate removal

Safety Information

Important safety precautions for sewing machine operation.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Thread breakingIncorrect threading/tensionRe-thread machine; adjust tension
Skip stitchesBent needle/wrong needleReplace needle; check installation
Uneven stitchesTension issuesAdjust upper and bobbin tension
Machine not runningPower connectionCheck power cord and outlet
Fabric not feedingFeed dogs loweredRaise feed dogs; clean area
Noisy operationLint buildupClean and oil machine
Bobbin issuesIncorrect windingRewind bobbin properly

Service: Contact authorized Janome service center for repairs.

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

Janome JEM 639 Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025