Janome JFS1821S User Manual

The Janome JFS1821S is a high-performance sewing machine featuring 18 built-in stitches, one-step buttonhole, free arm capability, built-in thread cutter, adjustable stitch length and width, top drop-in bobbin system, built-in needle threader, reverse sewing, and variable speed control. Powered by standard household electrical outlet. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Basic Sewing Operations 7. Stitch Selection 8. Maintenance & Cleaning 9. Regulatory Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 18 built-in stitches, free arm, built-in thread cutter, top drop-in bobbin, needle threader, stitch length/width controls.

FeatureDescription
Built-in stitches18 different stitch patterns including utility and decorative
One-step buttonholeAutomatic buttonhole creation
Free arm capabilityFor sewing sleeves and hard-to-reach areas
Built-in thread cutterConvenient thread cutting on machine
Top drop-in bobbinEasy bobbin loading and viewing
Built-in needle threaderAutomatic needle threading assistance
Stitch length controlAdjustable from 0-4mm
Stitch width controlAdjustable up to 5mm
Reverse sewingReinforce stitches with reverse button
Variable speed controlAdjustable sewing speed

Installation

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

  1. Remove all packaging materials and protective covers.
  2. Attach foot controller to machine and plug into power outlet.
  3. Install needle following arrow direction and tighten screw.
  4. Wind bobbin and insert into bobbin case.
  5. Thread upper thread following numbered guides.

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

First-Time Setup

Prepare machine for first use with proper threading and settings.

  1. Power connection: Plug foot controller into machine and wall outlet.
  2. Needle installation: Loosen needle clamp, insert needle with flat side to back, tighten.
  3. Bobbin winding: Place thread on spool pin, wind bobbin following guide marks.
  4. Bobbin insertion: Drop bobbin into case with thread pulling counterclockwise.
  5. Upper threading: Follow numbered guides from spool to needle.
  6. Test stitching: Use scrap fabric to test stitch formation.

CAUTION! Ensure proper needle installation to prevent breakage and damage.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Main controls located on front and side of machine. Stitch selection dial, stitch length/width controls, reverse button, thread cutter.

Stitch Selection: Turn dial to select desired stitch pattern (1-18). Stitch Length: Adjust for shorter/longer stitches. Stitch Width: Adjust for narrower/wider zigzag. Reverse: Hold button for reinforcement stitching. Thread Cutter: Built-in blade for easy thread cutting.

Accessory storage in free arm compartment includes additional presser feet, needles, bobbins, seam ripper, and cleaning brush.

Basic Sewing Operations

Step-by-step guide for basic sewing tasks.

  1. Fabric preparation: Place fabric under presser foot, lower presser foot lever.
  2. Thread tension: Adjust for different fabric types (normal setting 4-5).
  3. Starting to sew: Press foot controller gently to begin sewing.
  4. Guiding fabric: Guide fabric gently without pulling or pushing.
  5. Reverse stitching: Hold reverse button at beginning and end of seams.
  6. Finishing: Raise needle, lift presser foot, pull fabric to back and cut threads.
  7. Buttonholes: Select buttonhole stitch, place fabric, follow automatic sequence.

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

Stitch Selection

Complete guide to all 18 built-in stitches and their applications.

  1. Straight stitch: Basic sewing, topstitching (length 2.0-2.5)
  2. Zigzag stitch: Seam finishing, appliqué (width 3-4)
  3. Three-step zigzag: Elastic application, mending
  4. Blind hem stitch: Nearly invisible hems
  5. Stretch stitches: Knits and stretch fabrics
  6. Decorative stitches: Embellishment and decoration
  7. Buttonhole stitch: Automatic one-step buttonholes
  8. Satin stitches: Dense zigzag for decorative effects

WARNING! Always match stitch type to fabric weight and type for best results.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

  1. Daily cleaning: Remove lint and dust from bobbin area and feed dogs.
  2. Needle replacement: Change needle after 8-10 hours of sewing or for new project.
  3. Oil application: Light machine oil in bobbin area as needed (refer to manual).
  4. Cover storage: Keep machine covered when not in use to prevent dust accumulation.
  5. Professional service: Annual professional cleaning recommended for heavy use.

CAUTION! Always unplug machine before cleaning or maintenance.

Regulatory Information

UL listed for electrical safety. Complies with international safety standards for household sewing machines. Copyright © 2025 Janome; trademarks of Janome America, Inc. For technical support and service, visit www.janome.com or contact authorized service centers.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Thread breakingIncorrect threading/tensionRethread completely; adjust tension; check for burrs on needle.
Needle breakingBent needle/wrong installationReplace needle; ensure proper installation; check for pulling fabric.
Uneven stitchesThread tension/needle issuesAdjust upper and bobbin tension; replace needle; clean machine.
Machine not feedingFeed dogs lowered/dirtyRaise feed dogs; clean feed dog area; check presser foot pressure.
Bobbin thread bunchingBobbin threading incorrectRemove and rethread bobbin; ensure correct direction of thread.
Machine not runningPower connection/foot controlCheck power cord; ensure foot controller plugged in; check fuse.

Reset: Turn machine off and on to reset electronic controls.

Service: Contact authorized Janome service center for repairs.

Janome JFS1821S User Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025