Janome JEM 639 Sewing Machine Manual

The Janome JEM 639 is a compact, lightweight sewing machine designed for portability and ease of use. Featuring 12 built-in stitches, one-step buttonhole, automatic needle threader, drop feed for free-motion sewing, built-in storage compartment, and easy stitch selection dial. Powered by standard household outlet with foot pedal control. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Setup and Installation 3. First-Time Operation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Stitch Selection 7. Basic Sewing Techniques 8. Maintenance and Care 9. Accessories 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Compact sewing head, stitch selection dial, automatic needle threader, drop feed lever, built-in storage, foot pedal, power cord.

FeatureDescription
Stitch Selection DialSelects from 12 built-in stitches
Automatic Needle ThreaderEasy threading with push-pull mechanism
Drop Feed LeverEnables free-motion sewing and darning
Built-in StorageHolds accessories and foot pedal
Foot PedalControls sewing speed
Power CordStandard household plug
Reverse Stitch ButtonReinforces stitching at beginning/end
Stitch Length DialAdjusts stitch length (0-4mm)
Bobbin WinderAutomatic bobbin winding system
Presser Foot LeverRaises and lowers presser foot

Setup and Installation

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

  1. Remove machine from packaging and place on table.
  2. Connect foot pedal to machine and plug into power outlet.
  3. Install needle: Loosen needle clamp screw, insert needle with flat side to back, tighten screw.
  4. Wind bobbin: Place bobbin on winder, thread through tension disc, press pedal to wind.
  5. Thread machine: Follow numbered threading path on machine.

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

First-Time Operation

Plug in machine and familiarize yourself with controls.

  1. Power on: Plug into outlet, machine is ready when light illuminates.
  2. Select stitch: Turn stitch selection dial to desired pattern.
  3. Adjust stitch length: Turn stitch length dial for longer/shorter stitches.
  4. Practice sewing: Use scrap fabric to test different stitches.
  5. Use reverse: Hold reverse button to reinforce stitches.

CAUTION! Always turn off and unplug when changing needles or performing maintenance.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Main controls located on front and side of machine. Stitch Selection Dial: Turn to select from 12 stitches. Stitch Length Dial: Adjusts stitch length (0-4mm). Reverse Stitch Button: Hold to sew in reverse.

Additional Controls: Power/light switch, presser foot lever, drop feed lever, bobbin winder, automatic needle threader.

Stitch Settings: Straight stitch (position 1), zigzag (position 2-5), blind hem (position 6), stretch stitches (positions 7-12). Tension: Adjust upper thread tension dial (1-9). Presser Foot Pressure: Automatic adjustment for different fabrics.

Stitch Selection

12 built-in stitches for various sewing applications.

  1. Straight Stitch: Basic sewing, topstitching, seaming
  2. Zigzag Stitch: Finishing edges, appliqué, decorative
  3. Blind Hem Stitch: Nearly invisible hemming
  4. Stretch Stitches: For knit and stretch fabrics
  5. Decorative Stitches: Multiple pattern options
  6. Buttonhole: One-step automatic buttonhole

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

Basic Sewing Techniques

Fundamental sewing operations for beginners and experienced users.

  1. Straight Seam: Guide fabric edge along seam guide for consistent seam allowance.
  2. Zigzag Finish: Sew along raw edge to prevent fraying.
  3. Buttonhole: Mark position, select buttonhole stitch, machine sews complete buttonhole.
  4. Free-Motion: Drop feed dogs for quilting and darning.
  5. Reverse Stitching: Hold reverse button at beginning and end to lock stitches.
  6. Gathering: Use longer stitch length and pull bobbin thread.

WARNING! Always keep fingers away from moving needle. Use seam ripper for mistakes.

Maintenance and Care

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

Daily: Clean lint from bobbin area and feed dogs. Weekly: Oil moving parts as per manual instructions. Monthly: Check needle for damage and replace if bent or dull.

CAUTION! Unplug machine before cleaning or maintenance. Use only Janome recommended needles and bobbins.

Accessories

Standard accessories included with Janome JEM 639.

AccessoryUse
All-purpose FootGeneral sewing
Zipper FootInstalling zippers
Buttonhole FootAutomatic buttonholes
Darning PlateFree-motion sewing
Class 15 Bobbins (4)Extra bobbins
Needles (assorted)Different fabric types
Seam RipperRemoving stitches
BrushCleaning lint
ScrewdriverNeedle plate removal

Warranty Information

Janome JEM 639 comes with 25-year limited warranty covering mechanical parts. Electronic components covered for 2 years. Labor covered for 1 year. Warranty valid only with proof of purchase from authorized dealer. For service, contact authorized Janome service center.

Customer Support: 1-800-631-0183 or visit www.janome.com

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Machine won't runPower connectionCheck power cord; ensure foot pedal plugged in; check outlet
Thread breakingTension/thread qualityRethread machine; adjust tension; use quality thread
Uneven stitchesThreading/needleRethread completely; replace needle; check bobbin
Fabric not feedingFeed dogs loweredRaise feed dogs; clean feed dog area
Needle breaksBent needle/wrong sizeReplace needle; ensure correct size for fabric
Bobbin issuesImproper winding/insertionRewind bobbin; ensure inserted correctly

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

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