Janome JS1004 Manual

The Janome JS1004 is a versatile mechanical sewing machine featuring 10 built-in stitches, 4-step buttonhole, drop feed for free-motion sewing, built-in thread cutter, adjustable stitch length and width, reverse sewing, 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 & Cleaning 9. Accessories 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Mechanical sewing machine with built-in stitches, stitch selection dial, reverse lever, thread tension dial, presser foot pressure dial, built-in thread cutter, and drop feed mechanism.

FeatureDescription
Built-in stitches10 utility and decorative stitches including straight, zigzag, and stretch stitches
4-step buttonholeEasy buttonhole creation with precise sizing
Drop feed mechanismFor free-motion sewing and darning
Built-in thread cutterConvenient thread cutting on machine bed
Reverse sewing leverFor reinforcing stitches at beginning and end of seams
Stitch length dialAdjustable from 0-4mm
Stitch width dialAdjustable up to 5mm for zigzag stitches
Thread tension dialAdjustable for perfect stitch formation
Presser foot pressureAdjustable for different fabric types
Free armFor sewing cuffs, sleeves, and other tubular items

Setup and Installation

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

  1. Remove machine from packaging: Lift machine by base, not handwheel.
  2. Install foot pedal: Connect to machine and plug into power outlet.
  3. Wind bobbin: Follow bobbin winding instructions in manual.
  4. Thread machine: Follow threading diagram on machine.
  5. Insert bobbin: Place bobbin in bobbin case with thread pulling counterclockwise.

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

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; test stitches on scrap fabric.

  1. Select straight stitch: Turn stitch selection dial to straight stitch position.
  2. Set stitch length: Adjust to medium setting (2.5mm).
  3. Test stitch: Place fabric under presser foot and gently press foot pedal.
  4. Practice reverse: Use reverse lever to reinforce stitches.
  5. Experiment with stitches: Try different built-in stitches on scrap fabric.

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

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Main controls located on right side of machine. Stitch selection dial for choosing stitches, reverse lever for backstitching.

Dial Functions: Stitch selection, stitch length adjustment, stitch width adjustment, thread tension control.

Stitch Selection: Turn dial to desired stitch symbol. Stitch Length: 0-4mm (0 for darning). Stitch Width: 0-5mm for zigzag stitches. Thread Tension: 0-9 with 4-5 as normal setting. Reverse Lever: Hold down for backstitching. Presser Foot Pressure: Adjust for light or heavy fabrics.

Stitch Selection

10 built-in stitches for various sewing applications.

  1. Straight Stitch: For basic sewing, topstitching, and seaming
  2. Zigzag Stitch: For finishing edges, appliqué, and decorative work
  3. 3-Step Zigzag: For stretch fabrics and decorative effects
  4. Blind Hem Stitch: For nearly invisible hemming
  5. Stretch Stitches: For knit fabrics and elastic materials
  6. Decorative Stitches: For embellishment and creative projects
  7. Buttonhole Stitch: 4-step process for perfect buttonholes

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

Basic Sewing Techniques

Fundamental sewing operations for beginners and experienced users.

  1. Starting to Sew: Lower presser foot, gently press foot pedal
  2. Seam Sewing: Guide fabric with even pressure, don't pull
  3. Reverse Stitching: Use reverse lever at beginning and end of seams
  4. Curves and Corners: Slow down, use handwheel for precise control
  5. Zipper Installation: Use zipper foot for invisible and centered zippers
  6. Buttonholes: Follow 4-step process for consistent results
  7. Free Motion Sewing: Drop feed dogs for quilting and darning

WARNING! Never sew over pins. Remove pins before they reach the needle.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

  1. Daily Cleaning: Brush out lint from bobbin area and feed dogs
  2. Oil Machine: Apply sewing machine oil to designated points monthly
  3. Needle Replacement: Change needle after every project or 8 hours of sewing
  4. Bobbin Case: Clean and check for burrs or damage
  5. External Cleaning: Wipe with soft, dry cloth only

CAUTION! Unplug machine before cleaning or maintenance. Use only sewing machine oil.

Accessories

Standard accessories included with Janome JS1004.

AccessoryPurpose
Zigzag FootGeneral purpose sewing
Buttonhole FootCreating buttonholes
Zipper FootInstalling zippers and piping
Bobbin (class 15)Lower thread supply
NeedlesAssorted sizes for different fabrics
Seam RipperRemoving stitches
BrushCleaning lint and debris
ScrewdriverNeedle plate and foot changes

Regulatory Information

UL Listed: Complies with UL safety standards for household sewing machines. Copyright © 2025 Janome; trademarks of Janome Sewing Machine Co., Ltd. For technical support and service, visit www.janome.com or contact authorized Janome dealers. Made for household use in accordance with international safety standards.

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 issuesCheck upper and bobbin thread tension; rethread completely.
Machine not feedingFeed dogs loweredRaise feed dogs; check for lint buildup under throat plate.
No powerPower connectionCheck outlet; ensure foot pedal connected; check power switch.
Skip stitchesNeedle/damaged pointReplace needle; use correct needle type; check needle installation.

Service: Contact authorized Janome dealer or visit www.janome.com for technical support.

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