The Janome N190 is a versatile mechanical sewing machine designed for home use, featuring 19 built-in stitches, 4-step buttonhole, free arm capability, drop feed for darning and quilting, built-in thread cutter, and easy stitch selection dial. Powered by 120V AC, this reliable machine offers straight stitch, zigzag, stretch, and decorative stitches with adjustable stitch length and width. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.
Key components: Mechanical stitch selection dial, free arm, built-in thread cutter, drop feed mechanism, bobbin winder, and reverse stitch lever.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Built-in stitches | 19 stitches including straight, zigzag, stretch, and decorative |
| 4-step buttonhole | Easy buttonhole creation with precise sizing |
| Free arm capability | For sewing sleeves, cuffs, and other tubular items |
| Drop feed mechanism | For darning, quilting, and free-motion sewing |
| Built-in thread cutter | Convenient thread cutting on machine side |
| Stitch length dial | Adjustable from 0-4mm for different fabric types |
| Stitch width dial | Adjustable up to 5mm for zigzag and decorative stitches |
| Reverse stitch lever | For reinforcing seams at beginning and end |
| Bobbin winder | Built-in bobbin winding system |
| Power and light switch | Convenient front-mounted controls |
Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable, level surface.
WARNING! Keep fingers away from needle area during operation. Always turn off power when threading or changing accessories.
Power on machine; test basic functions.
CAUTION! Always start with needle in highest position. Keep work area well-lit and free of obstructions.
Main controls located on front and side of machine. Stitch Selection Dial: Rotate to select desired stitch pattern. Stitch Length Dial: Adjust from 0 (for buttonholes) to 4mm. Stitch Width Dial: Adjust zigzag and decorative stitch width (0-5mm). Reverse Stitch Lever: Hold down for reverse sewing. Bobbin Winder: Located on top of machine. Power/Light Switch: Front-mounted toggle switch.
Thread Tension: Adjust dial for balanced stitches (higher numbers for tighter tension). Presser Foot Pressure: Fixed for general sewing. Feed Dogs: Can be dropped for free-motion work.
Dial positions correspond to specific stitch types and functions.
| Dial Position | Stitch Type | Recommended Use |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Straight Stitch (Left) | General sewing, topstitching |
| 2 | Straight Stitch (Center) | Basic construction seams |
| 3-6 | Zigzag Stitches | Overcasting, appliqué, stretch fabrics |
| 7-10 | Decorative Stitches | Embellishment, decorative seams |
| 11-14 | Stretch Stitches | Knits, elastic fabrics |
| Buttonhole | 4-step Process | Creating buttonholes of various sizes |
Fundamental sewing operations for beginners and experienced users.
Tip: Always test stitches on fabric scrap before starting project.
Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.
CAUTION! Always unplug machine before cleaning or maintenance. Use only recommended sewing machine oil.
Standard accessories included with Janome N190 sewing machine.
Optional Accessories: Walking foot, quilting guide, extension table, additional presser feet.
Janome N190 comes with 25-year limited warranty covering mechanical parts. Electronic components covered for 2 years. Labor covered for 1 year. Warranty valid only with proof of purchase from authorized dealer. Does not cover damage from misuse, improper maintenance, or unauthorized repairs. For warranty service, contact authorized Janome service center with proof of purchase.
| Symptom | Possible Cause | Corrective Action |
|---|---|---|
| Machine won't start | Power connection | Check power cord connection; ensure foot controller is plugged in properly |
| Thread breaking | Tension/needle issues | Check thread tension; replace needle; ensure proper threading |
| Skip stitches | Needle/blunt needle | Replace needle; check needle insertion; use correct needle type |
| Bobbin thread bunching | Bobbin threading | Rethread bobbin; ensure bobbin inserted correctly |
| Uneven stitches | Tension issues | Adjust upper and lower thread tension; check threading path |
| Machine noisy | Lint/lubrication | Clean lint from bobbin area; lubricate according to manual |
| Fabric not feeding | Feed dogs | Check feed dog position; clean feed dogs; check presser foot pressure |
Service: For technical support, contact Janome at 1-800-631-0183 or visit www.janome.com