janome model 124 manual

The Janome Model 124 is a versatile mechanical sewing machine designed for home use, featuring straight and zigzag stitches, built-in buttonholer, free arm capability, stitch length and width adjustments, reverse stitching, drop feed for darning and quilting, built-in light, and accessory storage. Powered by 110V AC, 60Hz. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Mechanical sewing head, free arm, stitch selection dial, tension control, bobbin winder, built-in light, accessory compartment.

Feature	Description
Stitch selection dial	For straight and zigzag stitch patterns
Stitch length control	Adjusts stitch length from 0-4mm
Stitch width control	Adjusts zigzag width from 0-5mm
Reverse stitch lever	For reinforcing stitches
Free arm	For sewing sleeves and cuffs
Drop feed	For darning and free-motion quilting
Built-in buttonholer	One-step buttonhole function
Tension control dial	Adjusts upper thread tension
Bobbin winder	Automatically winds bobbin
Built-in light	Illuminates work area

Installation & Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable surface at comfortable height.

1. Remove machine from packaging: Lift carefully from carrying case.
2. Position machine: Place on sturdy table with adequate workspace.
3. Connect foot control: Plug into machine and power outlet.
4. Install needle: Loosen needle clamp screw, insert needle with flat side to back.
5. Connect power: Plug into 110V AC outlet.

WARNING! Keep fingers away from needle area during operation. Unplug when not in use.

First-Time Operation

Prepare machine for initial use with practice fabric.

1. Wind bobbin: Place thread on spool pin, guide through bobbin winder tension.
2. Insert bobbin: Drop into bobbin case with thread pulling counterclockwise.
3. Thread upper thread: Follow numbered threading path from spool to needle.
4. Select stitch: Turn dial to straight stitch position.
5. Test sew: Place fabric under presser foot, lower foot, and press foot control.

CAUTION! Always raise needle to highest position before changing settings.

Specifications

• Machine Type: Mechanical free-arm sewing machine
• Stitches: Straight, zigzag, stretch stitches, blind hem
• Stitch Length: 0-4mm adjustable
• Stitch Width: 0-5mm adjustable
• Buttonhole: One-step automatic
• Presser Feet: Standard, zipper, buttonhole, button sewing
• Needle System: HAx1 standard domestic needles
• Bobbin: Class 15 transparent
• Power Source: 110V AC, 60Hz
• Motor: 0.5 Amp energy efficient

Controls and Settings

Main controls located on front and right side of machine.

Front Panel: Stitch selection dial, stitch length control, stitch width control, reverse stitch lever, bobbin winder, tension control dial.

Stitch Selection: Turn dial to desired stitch pattern. Stitch Length: Adjust for shorter/longer stitches. Stitch Width: Control zigzag width. Tension: Adjust for balanced stitches (normal setting 4-5). Reverse: Hold lever for backstitching. Bobbin Winder: Push bobbin to right to engage winding.

Stitch Selection

Available stitches and their applications.

1. Straight Stitch: Basic sewing, topstitching (length 2.0-2.5mm)
2. Zigzag Stitch: Seam finishing, appliqué (width 3-4mm)
3. Blind Hem: Nearly invisible hemming
4. Stretch Stitch: For knit fabrics
5. Buttonhole: Automatic one-step function
6. Decorative: Multiple zigzag patterns

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

Threading & Bobbin

Proper threading ensures smooth operation.

1. Upper Threading: Follow numbered path - spool pin, thread guide, tension discs, take-up lever, needle.
2. Bobbin Winding: Place thread on spool pin, through guide, around tension spring, to bobbin.
3. Bobbin Insertion: Open bobbin cover, drop in bobbin with thread counterclockwise.
4. Thread Drawing: Hold upper thread, turn hand wheel to bring up bobbin thread.

WARNING! Ensure presser foot is raised when threading upper thread.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance.

1. Daily: Brush out lint from bobbin area and feed dogs.
2. Weekly: Oil hook race and moving parts with sewing machine oil.
3. Monthly: Clean tension discs with folded fabric or dental floss.
4. Needle: Replace after 8-10 hours of sewing or if damaged.

CAUTION! Unplug machine before cleaning or maintenance.

Accessories

Included accessories and their uses.

Accessory	Use
Standard Presser Foot	General sewing
Zipper Foot	Installing zippers
Buttonhole Foot	Making buttonholes
Button Sewing Foot	Attaching buttons
Darning/Quilting Foot	Free-motion work
Seam Ripper	Removing stitches
Brush	Cleaning lint
Additional Bobbins	Thread storage
Screwdriver	Needle replacement

Regulatory Information

UL Listed: Complies with UL safety standards. CE Certified: Meets European safety requirements. Copyright © Janome; trademarks of Janome Sewing Machine Co., Ltd. For support, visit www.janome.com or contact authorized service centers. Made for household use.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Thread breaking	Incorrect threading/tension	Re-thread completely; reduce tension; check for burrs on needle.
Skip stitches	Wrong needle/damaged needle	Replace needle; ensure correct needle type for fabric.
Bobbin thread bunching	Improper bobbin insertion	Remove and reinsert bobbin; check bobbin case.
Machine won't run	Power connection/foot control	Check power cord; ensure foot control is plugged in properly.
Uneven stitches	Tension issues	Adjust upper and bobbin tension; re-thread both.
Noisy operation	Lint buildup/needs oiling	Clean lint from bobbin area; oil moving parts.

Service: Contact authorized Janome service center for repairs.

Support: www.janome.com or local authorized dealer