janome sewing machine manual rx18s

The Janome RX18S is a versatile sewing machine designed for home use, featuring 18 built-in stitches, one-step buttonhole, free arm capability, drop feed for darning and quilting, built-in needle threader, stitch length and width adjustment, reverse sewing, and built-in LED light. 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 & Setup 3. First-Time Operation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Stitch Selection 7. Maintenance & Cleaning 8. Accessories 9. Safety Information 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Main body with stitch selection dial, bobbin case, needle area, free arm, foot controller, and accessory compartment.

FeatureDescription
Stitch selection dialSelects from 18 built-in stitches
One-step buttonholeAutomatic buttonhole creation
Free arm capabilityFor sewing cuffs and sleeves
Drop feed mechanismFor darning and free-motion quilting
Built-in needle threaderEasy needle threading
Stitch length adjustmentControls stitch length from 0-4mm
Stitch width adjustmentControls stitch width from 0-5mm
Reverse sewing leverFor reinforcing stitches
Built-in LED lightIlluminates sewing area
Foot controllerControls sewing speed

Installation & Setup

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

  1. Remove packaging materials and protective covers
  2. Attach foot controller to machine port
  3. Plug power cord into electrical outlet
  4. Install needle following arrow direction
  5. Wind bobbin and insert into bobbin case
  6. Thread machine following numbered guide

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

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; test basic functions.

  1. Select straight stitch using stitch dial
  2. Place scrap fabric under presser foot
  3. Lower presser foot lever
  4. Press foot controller gently to start sewing
  5. Practice basic stitches and reverse sewing
  6. Test stitch length and width adjustments

CAUTION! Always use correct needle for fabric type. Replace bent or damaged needles immediately.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Main controls located on front and side of machine.

Front Panel: Stitch selection dial, stitch length dial, stitch width dial, reverse lever, presser foot lever.

Stitch Selection: Turn dial to select desired stitch pattern. Stitch Length: Adjust for shorter or longer stitches. Stitch Width: Adjust for narrower or wider zigzag stitches. Reverse: Hold lever for backstitching. Tension: Adjust thread tension dial for balanced stitches.

Stitch Selection

18 built-in stitches for various sewing applications.

  1. Straight Stitch: Basic sewing and seaming
  2. Zigzag Stitch: Overcasting and decorative work
  3. Blind Hem Stitch: Nearly invisible hems
  4. Stretch Stitches: For knit fabrics
  5. Decorative Stitches: Various patterns for embellishment
  6. Buttonhole Stitch: Automatic one-step buttonholes

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

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance.

  1. Unplug machine before cleaning
  2. Remove needle plate and clean lint buildup
  3. Oil moving parts as specified in manual
  4. Wipe exterior with soft, dry cloth
  5. Store in dust-free environment when not in use

CAUTION! Never use compressed air to clean machine as it can force lint into mechanisms.

Accessories

Standard accessories included with Janome RX18S.

AccessoryUse
All-purpose footGeneral sewing
Zipper footInstalling zippers
Buttonhole footCreating buttonholes
Bobbin (extra)Additional bobbin
NeedlesReplacement needles
Seam ripperRemoving stitches
BrushCleaning lint
ScrewdriverNeedle plate removal

Safety Information

Important safety precautions for sewing machine operation.

WARNING! Never operate machine with damaged power cord or foot controller.

Regulatory Information

Complies with international safety standards for household sewing machines. Copyright © 2025 Janome. For technical support and service, visit www.janome.com or contact authorized service centers. Serial number located on machine base.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Machine won't startPower connectionCheck power cord; ensure machine is plugged in; check foot controller connection
Thread breakingTension/needleRe-thread machine; check tension setting; replace needle
Uneven stitchesThreading/tensionRe-thread both upper and lower threads; adjust tension
Needle breaksFabric/needle typeUse correct needle for fabric; don't pull fabric; check needle installation
Fabric not feedingFeed dogsEnsure feed dogs are raised; clean feed dog area
Unusual noiseLint/mechanicalClean machine; check for thread jam; consult service center

Service: Contact authorized Janome service center for repairs. Do not attempt to repair electrical components.

Janome Sewing Machine Manual RX18S © - All Rights Reserved 2025