Janome JEM Gold 2 Instruction Manual

The Janome JEM Gold 2 is a compact, lightweight sewing machine designed for quilters and crafters, featuring 12 built-in stitches, one-step buttonhole, automatic needle threader, drop feed for free-motion sewing, built-in thread cutter, and easy stitch selection dial. Powered by 120V AC, 60Hz. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Machine Setup 3. First-Time Operation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Functions 6. Stitch Selection 7. Advanced Features 8. Maintenance & Cleaning 9. Accessories 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Compact sewing machine body, stitch selection dial, automatic needle threader, drop feed lever, built-in thread cutter, accessory storage.

FeatureDescription
Stitch selection dialSelect from 12 built-in stitches
Automatic needle threaderEasy threading with push-pull mechanism
Drop feed leverLowers feed dogs for free-motion sewing
Built-in thread cutterConvenient thread cutting on face plate
One-step buttonholeAutomatic buttonhole creation
Reverse stitch leverReinforce stitches with reverse sewing
Stitch length dialAdjust stitch length from 0-4mm
Stitch width dialAdjust stitch width from 0-5mm
Power/light switchTurns machine and work light on/off
Foot pressure dialAdjust presser foot pressure

Machine Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable sewing table.

  1. Remove machine from packaging: Lift carefully from carrying case.
  2. Install foot controller: Plug into machine and power outlet.
  3. Thread machine: Follow threading diagram from spool to needle.
  4. Insert needle: Ensure flat side faces back, tighten screw securely.
  5. Attach presser foot: Lower presser foot lever to snap into place.
  6. Plug into AC power: Use included power cord.

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

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; test basic functions.

  1. Thread machine: Use automatic needle threader for easy threading.
  2. Select straight stitch: Turn dial to straight stitch position.
  3. Test sewing: Place fabric under presser foot, lower foot, press foot controller.
  4. Adjust stitch length: Turn dial for desired stitch length.
  5. Practice reverse stitching: Hold reverse lever for reinforcement.
  6. Try automatic buttonhole: Select buttonhole stitch and follow markings.

CAUTION! Always use proper needle for fabric type. Replace bent or damaged needles immediately.

Specifications

Controls and Functions

Access all functions via front panel controls. Main Controls: Power switch, stitch selection dial, stitch length dial, stitch width dial, reverse stitch lever.

Additional Features: Automatic needle threader, drop feed lever, built-in thread cutter, presser foot pressure dial, bobbin winding mechanism.

Stitch Selection: Straight stitch, zigzag, blind hem, stretch stitches, decorative stitches. Tension Control: Upper thread tension dial (0-9). Bobbin System: Front-loading bobbin with clear cover. Presser Feet: Standard foot, zipper foot, buttonhole foot included.

Stitch Selection

12 built-in stitches for various sewing applications.

  1. Straight Stitch: Basic sewing, topstitching (position 1)
  2. Zigzag Stitch: Appliqué, finishing edges (position 2)
  3. Blind Hem Stitch: Nearly invisible hems (position 3)
  4. Stretch Stitches: For knit fabrics (positions 4-6)
  5. Decorative Stitches: Embellishment (positions 7-12)
  6. Buttonhole Stitch: One-step automatic (special position)

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

Advanced Features

Free-motion sewing and specialty techniques.

  1. Drop Feed: Lower feed dogs for quilting/darning
  2. Automatic Needle Threader: Push-pull mechanism for easy threading
  3. Built-in Thread Cutter: Cut threads without scissors
  4. One-step Buttonhole: Automatic sizing and stitching
  5. Reverse Stitching: Secure seam beginnings and ends
  6. Bobbin Winding: Built-in bobbin winding system
  7. Needle Position: Manual needle up/down control

WARNING! Never force the handwheel. If machine jams, turn power off immediately.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Unplug before cleaning. Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance.

  1. Clean lint buildup: Remove needle plate and clean bobbin area
  2. Oil machine: Use sewing machine oil on moving parts (monthly)
  3. Change needles: Replace after 8-10 hours of sewing
  4. Check belt tension: Ensure proper motor belt tension
  5. Clean exterior: Use soft, dry cloth only

CAUTION! Use only Janome-approved sewing machine oil. Never use household oils.

Accessories

Standard accessories included with Janome JEM Gold 2.

AccessoryPurpose
Standard FootGeneral sewing
Zipper FootInstalling zippers
Buttonhole FootCreating buttonholes
Bobbin (4)Extra bobbins
Needles (3)Assorted needle sizes
Seam RipperRemoving stitches
BrushCleaning lint
ScrewdriverNeedle plate removal
Foot ControllerSpeed control
Power CordElectrical connection

Regulatory Information

UL Listed: Certified for safety standards. Copyright © 2025 Janome; trademarks of Janome America, Inc. For support, visit www.janome.com or contact 1-800-631-0183. Made for household use. Not for commercial applications.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Machine won't startPower connectionCheck power cord; ensure foot controller plugged in; check power switch.
Thread breakingTension/thread qualityRethread machine; adjust tension; use quality thread.
Needle breakingBent needle/wrong sizeReplace needle; ensure correct size for fabric.
Uneven stitchesThreading/tensionRethread completely; clean bobbin area; adjust tension.
Fabric not feedingFeed dogs loweredCheck drop feed lever position; raise feed dogs.
Bobbin issuesWinding/insertionRewind bobbin evenly; ensure inserted correctly.
Noisy operationLint/lack of oilClean lint from bobbin area; oil moving parts.

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

Janome JEM Gold 2 Instruction Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025