Janome Manual Buttonhole

The Janome Manual Buttonhole feature allows for precise and customizable buttonhole creation on various fabrics. This function provides complete control over buttonhole size and placement, supporting different fabric types from delicate silks to heavy denims. Below are key sections for setup, operation, troubleshooting, and maintenance.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Manual buttonhole foot, stitch length dial, stitch width dial, reverse stitch button, thread tension control.

Installation & Setup

Prepare your Janome sewing machine for manual buttonhole creation.

1. Install manual buttonhole foot: Remove standard presser foot, attach buttonhole foot securely.
2. Thread machine: Follow threading guide with appropriate buttonhole thread.
3. Select manual buttonhole mode: Set stitch selector to manual buttonhole position.
4. Insert needle: Use appropriate needle size for fabric type (size 70-90 recommended).
5. Test on scrap fabric: Always test buttonhole on similar fabric before proceeding.

WARNING! Always turn off machine when changing feet or needles to prevent injury.

First-Time Operation

Follow these steps for your first manual buttonhole creation.

1. Mark buttonhole placement: Use fabric marker to indicate position and length.
2. Set buttonhole length: Measure button diameter and add 1/8 inch for proper fit.
3. Adjust stitch width: Start with medium width (3-4) for standard fabrics.
4. Begin stitching: Lower presser foot and start with forward stitches for left side.
5. Create bar tacks: Use reverse function at beginning and end for reinforcement.
6. Complete right side: Rotate fabric and stitch parallel line to complete buttonhole.

CAUTION! Keep fingers away from needle area during operation.

Specifications

• Buttonhole Length Range: 1/4 inch to 1-1/4 inches adjustable
• Stitch Width: 0-5mm adjustable
• Compatible Needles: Universal, Jeans, Microtex (size 70-110)
• Thread Types: All-purpose, buttonhole twist, polyester, cotton
• Fabric Compatibility: Lightweight to heavy weight fabrics
• Stitch Density: 10-30 stitches per inch adjustable
• Buttonhole Styles: Standard, keyhole, rounded end
• Power Requirements: Standard household electrical outlet
• Machine Compatibility: All Janome manual buttonhole capable models

Controls and Settings

Access manual buttonhole functions through machine controls and settings.

Primary Controls: Stitch length dial, stitch width dial, reverse stitch lever, thread tension dial, presser foot lever.

Stitch Length: Adjust for fabric density (shorter for delicate, longer for heavy). Stitch Width: Control buttonhole width and reinforcement. Thread Tension: Balance upper and bobbin tension for perfect stitches. Presser Foot Pressure: Adjust for fabric thickness and slippage prevention. Needle Position: Fine-tune needle placement for precise stitching.

Fabric Preparation

Proper fabric preparation ensures professional buttonhole results.

1. Stabilize fabric: Use interfacing or stabilizer behind buttonhole area.
2. Mark accurately: Use washable fabric marker or chalk for placement lines.
3. Test stitch: Always create test buttonhole on fabric scrap first.
4. Thread selection: Choose appropriate thread weight for fabric type.
5. Needle choice: Match needle type and size to fabric characteristics.

Tip: Use fray check on cut buttonhole edges for added durability.

Buttonhole Creation Process

Step-by-step manual buttonhole creation procedure.

1. Position fabric: Place under buttonhole foot with marked lines aligned.
2. Set starting point: Lower needle at beginning of left buttonhole line.
3. Stitch left side: Sew forward to end of marked buttonhole length.
4. Create end bar tack: Stitch several reverse stitches for reinforcement.
5. Stitch right side: Rotate fabric 180 degrees and stitch parallel line.
6. Complete beginning bar tack: Reverse stitch at starting point.
7. Cut buttonhole: Use seam ripper or buttonhole chisel to open center.
8. Secure threads: Backstitch or tie off thread ends securely.

WARNING! Always use sharp tools for cutting buttonholes to prevent fabric damage.

Advanced Techniques

Professional techniques for specialized buttonhole applications.

Corded Buttonholes: Insert gimp cord under buttonhole foot for reinforced edges. Keyhole Buttonholes: Use specialized keyhole buttonhole foot for rounded end. Decorative Buttonholes: Experiment with contrasting threads and decorative stitches. Heavy Fabric Adaptation: Adjust tension and use heavier needles for denim or upholstery. Delicate Fabric Handling: Use tissue paper stabilizer for silk and chiffon.

Care & Maintenance

Proper care ensures consistent buttonhole quality and machine longevity.

Clean machine regularly: Remove lint from bobbin area and feed dogs. Oil moving parts: Follow manufacturer's lubrication schedule. Store properly: Cover machine when not in use. Replace needles: Change needles after 8 hours of sewing time. Check tension: Regularly test and adjust thread tension.

CAUTION! Unplug machine before performing any maintenance or cleaning.

Regulatory Information

Janome sewing machines comply with international safety standards including UL, CE, and CSA certifications. All manual buttonhole functions meet industry standards for stitch quality and durability. Copyright © 2025 Janome. For technical support and service, visit www.janome.com or contact authorized Janome dealers.

Troubleshooting

Reset: Consult manual for machine-specific reset procedures.

Service: Contact authorized Janome service center for professional repairs.