Janome JEM Gold 2 Manual

The Janome JEM Gold 2 is a compact, lightweight sewing machine designed for quilters and crafters. It features 12 built-in stitches, a 4-step buttonhole, drop feed for free-motion sewing, built-in thread cutter, and easy stitch selection dial. With a maximum sewing speed of 860 stitches per minute and a 5.5" x 4" work area, it's perfect for detailed work and small 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. Maintenance & Cleaning 8. Accessories 9. Safety Information 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Compact sewing machine body, Stitch selection dial, Reverse stitch button, Thread tension dial, Drop feed lever, Built-in thread cutter.

FeatureDescription
Stitch selection dialSelects from 12 built-in stitches including utility and decorative
Reverse stitch buttonFor reinforcing seams at beginning and end
Thread tension dialAdjusts upper thread tension (0-9)
Drop feed leverLowers feed dogs for free-motion sewing
Built-in thread cutterConvenient thread cutting on side of machine
Free armRemovable accessory storage for sewing cuffs and sleeves
LED lightIlluminates sewing area
Foot pressure dialAdjusts presser foot pressure for different fabrics
Bobbin winding systemQuick and easy bobbin winding
Power switchTurns machine on/off

Installation & Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable surface.

  1. Remove machine from packaging: Remove all protective materials and tape.
  2. Attach power cord: Plug into machine and wall outlet (120V AC).
  3. Install foot controller: Connect to machine port.
  4. Wind bobbin: Follow bobbin winding instructions.
  5. Thread machine: Follow threading diagram for upper and lower threading.

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 steps.

  1. Select straight stitch: Turn stitch dial to position 1.
  2. Practice on scrap fabric: Use medium weight cotton for initial testing.
  3. Adjust stitch length: Use stitch length dial for desired stitch length.
  4. Test reverse stitching: Press and hold reverse button while sewing.
  5. Practice thread tension: Adjust tension dial for balanced stitches.

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

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Main controls located on front and side of machine.

Front Panel: Stitch selection dial, Stitch length dial, Reverse stitch button, Power switch, Bobbin winder.

Side Controls: Thread tension dial, Drop feed lever, Foot pressure dial.

Stitch Selection: Turn dial to select from 12 stitches. Stitch Length: Adjust from 0-4mm. Thread Tension: Adjust from 0-9 (4-5 for balanced stitches). Feed Dogs: Lower for free-motion quilting. Presser Foot: Adjust pressure for fabric thickness.

Stitch Selection

12 built-in stitches including:

  1. Straight stitch (left needle position)
  2. Straight stitch (center needle position)
  3. Zigzag stitch
  4. Multiple zigzag stitch
  5. Blind hem stitch
  6. Stretch stitch
  7. Shell stitch
  8. Scallop stitch
  9. Overcast stitch
  10. Basting stitch
  11. Buttonhole step 1
  12. Buttonhole step 2
  13. Buttonhole step 3
  14. Buttonhole step 4

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

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance.

  1. Clean lint regularly: Remove needle plate and clean bobbin area.
  2. Oil machine: Use sewing machine oil on designated points (see diagram).
  3. Change needles: Replace needle after 8-10 hours of sewing.
  4. Check belt tension: Ensure proper motor belt tension.

WARNING! Unplug machine before cleaning or maintenance. Use only Janome recommended oils.

Accessories

Standard accessories included:

AccessoryUse
General Purpose FootStandard sewing
Zigzag FootDecorative stitches
Buttonhole Foot4-step buttonholes
Darning/Quilting FootFree-motion work
Seam RipperRemoving stitches
BrushCleaning lint
Extra BobbinsAdditional thread colors
ScrewdriverNeedle plate removal
Spool CapsThread spool management

Safety Information

Important safety precautions for operation.

CAUTION! Never operate with damaged power cord or foot controller.

Warranty Information

Janome JEM Gold 2 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 warranty service, contact authorized Janome service center.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Thread breakingIncorrect threading/tensionRethread machine; adjust tension; check for burrs on needle.
Needle breakingBent needle/wrong sizeReplace needle; ensure correct size for fabric; don't pull fabric.
Uneven stitchesTension issuesAdjust upper and bobbin tension; rethread completely.
Machine not feedingFeed dogs loweredRaise feed dogs; clean feed dog area.
No powerPower connectionCheck power cord connections; ensure outlet working.
Bobbin issuesIncorrect windingRewind bobbin evenly; check bobbin case for lint.

Service: Contact authorized Janome service center for repairs.

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

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