Janome New Home 124 Manual

The Janome New Home 124 is a versatile sewing machine designed for home use, featuring multiple stitch patterns, adjustable stitch length and width, built-in buttonholer, free arm capability, drop feed for darning and quilting, built-in needle threader, top drop-in bobbin system, and variable speed control. Powered by 120V AC, 60Hz. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation & Setup 3. First-Time Operation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Stitch Selection 7. Threading & Bobbin 8. Maintenance 9. Accessories 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Sewing head with built-in stitch patterns, Free arm, Bobbin system, Thread tension dial, Stitch length/width controls, Reverse stitch button, Foot pedal.

FeatureDescription
Stitch patternsMultiple built-in stitches including straight, zigzag, decorative
Stitch length controlAdjustable from 0-4mm
Stitch width controlAdjustable from 0-5mm
ButtonholerOne-step automatic buttonhole
Free armFor sewing sleeves and cuffs
Drop feedFor darning, quilting, and free-motion sewing
Needle threaderBuilt-in automatic needle threader
Bobbin systemTop drop-in bobbin with clear cover
Reverse stitchButton for reinforcing stitches
Speed controlVariable speed via foot pedal

Installation & Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable surface.

  1. Remove machine from packaging: Lift carefully from carrying case.
  2. Set up work area: Ensure adequate lighting and space around machine.
  3. Install foot pedal: Connect to machine port, place on floor.
  4. Plug into AC power: Use provided power cord.
  5. Install needle: Loosen needle clamp screw, insert needle with flat side to back.

WARNING! Machine is heavy; lift with care to avoid injury. Ensure stable placement.

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; follow setup procedure.

  1. Thread machine: Follow threading guide printed on machine.
  2. Wind bobbin: Place empty bobbin on winder, thread through tension disc.
  3. Insert bobbin: Drop bobbin into case with thread pulling counterclockwise.
  4. Select stitch: Turn pattern dial to desired stitch.
  5. Test sew: Use scrap fabric to test stitch quality and tension.

CAUTION! Keep fingers away from needle during operation. Always turn off when threading.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Main controls located on front and side of machine.

Front Panel: Stitch pattern dial, Stitch length dial, Stitch width dial, Reverse stitch button, Thread tension dial.

Stitch Selection: Turn pattern dial to select stitch (straight, zigzag, stretch, decorative). Stitch Length: Adjust for fabric thickness (0-4mm). Stitch Width: Adjust for zigzag and decorative stitches (0-5mm). Thread Tension: Adjust for different fabrics (lower numbers for lighter fabrics). Reverse: Hold button for backstitching at beginning/end of seams.

Stitch Selection

12 built-in stitches for various sewing applications.

  1. Straight stitch: For basic sewing (positions 1-3)
  2. Zigzag stitch: For finishing edges and appliqué
  3. Blind hem stitch: For nearly invisible hems
  4. Stretch stitches: For knit fabrics
  5. Decorative stitches: For embellishment
  6. Buttonhole: Automatic one-step buttonhole

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

Threading & Bobbin

Proper threading essential for quality stitches.

  1. Raise presser foot and needle to highest position.
  2. Follow numbered threading guide on machine.
  3. Use built-in needle threader for easy needle threading.
  4. Wind bobbin: Place thread on spool pin, guide through tension disc.
  5. Insert bobbin: Drop into case, pull thread through slot.
  6. Pull up bobbin thread: Hold needle thread, turn hand wheel toward you.

WARNING! Ensure machine is off during threading. Keep fingers clear of needle.

Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance.

  1. Clean lint: Remove needle plate and clean bobbin area regularly.
  2. Oil machine: Use sewing machine oil on moving parts as directed.
  3. Change needle: Replace needle after every project or if damaged.
  4. Check tension: Test on scrap fabric before each project.

CAUTION! Unplug machine before cleaning or maintenance.

Accessories

Included accessories for various sewing tasks.

AccessoryUse
All-purpose footGeneral sewing
Zipper footInstalling zippers
Buttonhole footMaking buttonholes
Darning/embroidery footFree-motion work
Seam ripperRemoving stitches
Bobbins (4)Extra bobbins
NeedlesAssorted sizes
ScrewdriverNeedle plate removal

Regulatory Information

UL Listed: Complies with UL safety standards. Copyright © 2025 Janome; trademarks of Janome America, Inc. For support, visit www.janome.com or contact 1-800-631-0183. Made for household use only.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Thread breakingIncorrect threading/tensionRethread machine; adjust tension; check for burrs on needle.
Skipped stitchesWrong needle/damaged needleReplace needle; ensure correct needle for fabric.
Uneven stitchesTension issuesAdjust thread tension; rethread top and bobbin.
Machine not runningPower/pedal issuesCheck power connection; ensure pedal is plugged in.
Bobbin thread bunchingIncorrect bobbin threadingRemove and rethread bobbin; check bobbin case.
Needle hitting plateWrong needle positionEnsure needle is inserted correctly; check for bent needle.

Service: 1-800-631-0183; www.janome.com

Janome New Home 124 Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025