Janome QXL605 Instruction Manual

The Janome QXL605 is a professional-grade sewing machine with advanced features including computerized stitch selection, automatic needle threader, built-in needle plate, drop feed for free-motion sewing, adjustable stitch length and width, built-in stitches, one-step buttonhole, speed control slider, start/stop button, reverse stitch button, and LCD display. Powered by standard household electrical outlet. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Connecting Accessories 7. Basic Sewing Operations 8. Advanced Functions 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: LCD display, stitch selection panel, automatic needle threader, bobbin winding system, drop feed mechanism, built-in needle plate, foot pedal, power cord.

FeatureDescription
LCD displayShows selected stitch, stitch length, width and other settings
Automatic needle threaderEasily threads needle with lever mechanism
Built-in stitchesMultiple stitch patterns including utility, decorative and stretch stitches
One-step buttonholeAutomatically creates perfect buttonholes
Drop feed mechanismLowers feed dogs for free-motion sewing and quilting
Speed control sliderAdjusts maximum sewing speed
Start/stop buttonSews without foot pedal
Reverse stitch buttonReinforces stitching at beginning and end of seams
Bobbin winding systemAutomatically winds bobbin with thread
Adjustable stitch length/widthCustomizes stitch dimensions for different fabrics

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable sewing table.

  1. Remove packaging materials and protective covers from machine.
  2. Place machine on flat, stable surface at comfortable working height.
  3. Connect foot pedal to machine and plug into power outlet.
  4. Install needle following arrow direction and tighten screw securely.
  5. Wind bobbin and insert into bobbin case following threading diagram.

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

First-Time Setup

Power on machine; follow initial setup procedures.

  1. Thread machine: Follow numbered threading path from spool to needle.
  2. Wind bobbin: Place thread on spool pin, wind bobbin using bobbin winding system.
  3. Insert bobbin: Place bobbin in case with thread unwinding counterclockwise.
  4. Select basic stitch: Choose straight stitch for initial testing.
  5. Test sew: Use scrap fabric to test machine operation and tension.

CAUTION! Ensure proper needle installation and threading to prevent damage to machine.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Access functions via control panel and LCD display. Front Panel: Power switch, stitch selection buttons, stitch length/width controls, reverse stitch button, needle up/down button.

LCD Display: Shows selected stitch number, stitch length, stitch width, recommended presser foot, and other sewing information.

Stitch Selection: Press stitch category buttons to select stitch type. Stitch Adjustment: Use length and width buttons to customize stitches. Speed Control: Adjust maximum sewing speed with slider. Function Buttons: Reverse stitch, needle position, start/stop, automatic thread cutter.

Connecting Accessories

Various presser feet and accessories included for different sewing techniques.

  1. Turn off machine before changing accessories.
  2. Raise presser foot lever and remove current presser foot.
  3. Align new presser foot with presser foot holder and lower into position.
  4. Lower presser foot lever to secure accessory.
  5. Select appropriate stitch setting for accessory being used.

Tip: Always use the recommended presser foot for each stitch type as indicated on LCD display.

Basic Sewing Operations

Supports various sewing techniques from basic seams to decorative stitching.

  1. Straight Stitch: Select straight stitch for basic seams and construction.
  2. Zigzag Stitch: Choose zigzag for finishing edges and sewing stretch fabrics.
  3. Buttonhole: Use one-step buttonhole function for perfect buttonholes every time.
  4. Decorative Stitches: Select from built-in decorative patterns for embellishment.
  5. Reverse Stitching: Reinforce seams by holding reverse stitch button.
  6. Adjust Tension: Modify thread tension based on fabric type and thickness.
  7. Change Presser Feet: Use appropriate feet for different techniques (zipper, button, etc.)
  8. Free-Motion Sewing: Drop feed dogs for quilting and decorative free-motion work.

WARNING! Always keep fingers away from moving needle. Use hand wheel to manually position needle when necessary.

Advanced Functions

Memory Function: Store frequently used stitch combinations. Mirror Imaging: Create mirror image of selected stitches. Needle Position: Program needle stop position (up or down). Thread Cutter: Automatic thread cutting function.

Care & Maintenance

Unplug before cleaning. Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance.

  1. Clean lint from bobbin area and feed dogs after each project.
  2. Oil machine according to manufacturer recommendations.
  3. Replace needle regularly (after 8-10 hours of sewing).
  4. Cover machine when not in use to prevent dust accumulation.
  5. Use only Janome recommended needles and accessories.

CAUTION! Do not use compressed air to clean machine as it can force lint into mechanisms.

Regulatory Information

UL Listed: Certified for safety standards. Copyright © 2025 Janome; trademarks of Janome America, Inc. This product complies with applicable FCC rules. For technical support, visit www.janome.com or contact 1-800-631-0183. Serial number located on machine base.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Needle breaksIncorrect needle installation or bent needleEnsure needle is fully inserted and straight; replace if bent
Thread bunchingIncorrect threading or tensionRethread completely; check bobbin threading; adjust tension
Machine won't startPower connection or foot pedal issueCheck power cord connection; ensure foot pedal is plugged in properly
Uneven stitchesDirty machine or incorrect needleClean lint from bobbin area; use correct needle for fabric type
Thread breakingOld thread or incorrect tensionUse fresh, quality thread; reduce tension setting
Skip stitchesBlunt needle or incorrect needle typeReplace needle; use appropriate needle for fabric

Reset: Turn machine off and on to reset computerized functions.

Service: 1-800-631-0183; www.janome.com for authorized service centers

Janome QXL605 Instruction Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025