Janome JEM Gold Sewing Machine Manual

The Janome JEM Gold is a compact, lightweight sewing machine designed for portability and ease of use. Featuring 12 built-in stitches, a 4-step buttonhole, free arm capability, and easy stitch selection dial. Perfect for beginners and sewing on-the-go with dimensions of 12.6" x 7.5" x 8.7" and weighing only 11 pounds. 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 Operations 8. Maintenance and Care 9. Accessories 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Compact sewing machine with free arm, stitch selection dial, built-in stitches, buttonhole function, and accessory storage.

FeatureDescription
Built-in Stitches12 utility and decorative stitches
Buttonhole4-step easy buttonhole function
Free ArmRemovable flat bed for sewing cuffs and sleeves
Stitch LengthAdjustable stitch length control
Stitch WidthAdjustable stitch width for zigzag stitches
Reverse SewingBuilt-in reverse stitch lever
Bobbin SystemTop drop-in bobbin with clear cover
Thread TensionAdjustable thread tension control
Presser FeetMultiple snap-on presser feet included
LightingBuilt-in LED work light

Setup and Installation

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

  1. Remove machine from packaging and remove all protective materials.
  2. Attach power cord to machine and plug into standard 120V outlet.
  3. Install foot controller and connect to machine.
  4. Wind bobbin and thread machine according to threading diagram.
  5. Install appropriate presser foot for your sewing project.

WARNING! Keep fingers away from needle area during operation. Always turn off and unplug when not in use.

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; familiarize yourself with basic controls.

  1. Thread machine: Follow numbered threading path on machine.
  2. Wind bobbin: Place thread on spool pin, wind bobbin using bobbin winder.
  3. Insert bobbin: Drop bobbin into bobbin case with thread pulling counterclockwise.
  4. Select stitch: Turn stitch selection dial to desired stitch pattern.
  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 located on front and side of machine.

Front Panel: Stitch selection dial, stitch length dial, stitch width dial, reverse stitch lever.

Basic Settings: Stitch selection (turn dial to desired stitch), stitch length (0-4mm), stitch width (0-5mm for zigzag), thread tension (adjust for fabric type), presser foot pressure (automatic adjustment).

Special Functions: Reverse stitching (reinforce seams), free arm conversion (remove accessory storage), drop feed (for darning and quilting).

Stitch Selection

12 built-in stitches for various sewing applications.

  1. Straight Stitch: Basic sewing, topstitching (position 1)
  2. Zigzag Stitch: Seam finishing, appliqué (position 2)
  3. Multiple Zigzag: Elastic application, decorative work
  4. Blind Hem: Nearly invisible hemming
  5. Stretch Stitches: For knit fabrics
  6. Decorative Stitches: Shell stitch, honeycomb, etc.
  7. Buttonhole: 4-step process for perfect buttonholes

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

Basic Sewing Operations

Step-by-step guide for common sewing tasks.

  1. Straight Seam: Select straight stitch, align fabric edges, lower presser foot and sew.
  2. Zigzag Finish: Set to zigzag stitch, sew along raw edge to prevent fraying.
  3. Buttonhole: Mark button position, follow 4-step buttonhole process.
  4. Reverse Stitching: Hold reverse lever to reinforce beginning and end of seams.
  5. Free Arm Sewing: Remove accessory storage for sewing sleeves and cuffs.
  6. Gathering: Use longer stitch length and pull bobbin thread to gather fabric.

WARNING! Never pull fabric while sewing - let feed dogs move the fabric.

Maintenance and Care

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance.

  1. Cleaning: Remove lint and dust from bobbin area regularly.
  2. Oiling: Apply sewing machine oil to designated points as per manual.
  3. Needle Replacement: Change needle after every project or 8 hours of sewing.
  4. Storage: Cover machine when not in use to prevent dust accumulation.

CAUTION! Always unplug machine before cleaning or maintenance.

Accessories

Standard accessories included with Janome JEM Gold.

AccessoryPurpose
All-purpose FootGeneral sewing
Zipper FootInstalling zippers
Buttonhole FootCreating buttonholes
Sliding Buttonhole FootAutomatic buttonholes
Bobbin (4)Extra bobbins
Needles (3)Assorted needle sizes
Seam RipperRemoving stitches
BrushCleaning lint
ScrewdriverAdjustments and maintenance

Warranty Information

Janome JEM Gold comes with 25-year limited warranty. Warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship. Does not cover damage from misuse, improper maintenance, or commercial use. For warranty service, contact authorized Janome dealer with proof of purchase.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Thread breakingIncorrect threading/tensionRethread machine; adjust tension; check for burrs on needle.
Skip stitchesWrong needle/damaged needleReplace needle; ensure correct needle for fabric type.
Bobbin thread bunchingIncorrect bobbin threadingRemove and reinsert bobbin; check bobbin case.
Machine not feeding fabricFeed dogs lowered/dirtyRaise feed dogs; clean feed dog area.
Uneven stitchesTension issuesAdjust upper and lower thread tension.
Machine won't startPower connection/foot controlCheck power cord; ensure foot control is plugged in properly.

Service: Contact authorized Janome dealer for repairs. Customer service: 1-800-631-0183

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