Janome Sewing Machine Model 3128 Manual

The Janome Sewing Machine Model 3128 is a versatile mechanical sewing machine featuring 8 built-in stitches, 4-step buttonhole, drop feed for free-motion sewing, built-in thread cutter, stitch length and width adjustment, reverse sewing function, free arm capability, built-in light, and easy stitch selection dial. 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. Getting Started 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Functions 6. Stitch Selection 7. Basic Sewing Techniques 8. Maintenance & Cleaning 9. Accessories 10. Safety Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Stitch selection dial, stitch length control, stitch width control, reverse button, free arm, built-in light, foot pedal, power cord, accessory compartment.

FeatureDescription
Built-in stitches8 utility stitches including straight, zigzag, and stretch stitches
4-step buttonholeEasy buttonhole creation in 4 simple steps
Drop feedLower feed dogs for free-motion sewing and darning
Built-in thread cutterConvenient thread cutting on the machine
Free armRemovable flat bed accessory for sewing sleeves and cuffs
Stitch length controlAdjustable from 0-4mm
Stitch width controlAdjustable up to 5mm for zigzag stitches
Reverse sewingReinforce seams with reverse stitch button
Built-in lightIlluminates sewing area
Power switchTurns machine on/off

Installation & Setup

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

  1. Remove machine from packaging: Remove all protective materials and tape.
  2. Position machine: Place on sturdy table with adequate workspace around it.
  3. Connect foot pedal: Plug into machine port on right side.
  4. Connect power: Plug power cord into machine and wall outlet.
  5. Install accessories: Attach standard presser foot and needle.

WARNING! Keep fingers away from needle area during setup. Ensure stable surface to prevent tipping.

Getting Started

Power on machine; follow basic threading and bobbin winding procedures.

  1. Wind bobbin: Place thread on spool pin, guide through tension disc, and wind bobbin.
  2. Insert bobbin: Place bobbin in bobbin case with thread pulling counterclockwise.
  3. Thread upper thread: Follow numbered threading guide on machine.
  4. Select stitch: Turn stitch selection dial to desired pattern.
  5. Test sew: Practice on scrap fabric to check tension and stitch quality.

CAUTION! Always turn power off when threading needle or changing accessories.

Specifications

Controls and Functions

Access controls via front panel and side dials. Front Panel: Power switch, stitch selection dial, stitch length control, stitch width control, reverse button.

Additional Features: Built-in thread cutter, drop feed lever, free arm conversion, bobbin winder, tension control dial.

Stitch Selection: Turn dial to select from 8 stitches including straight stitch, zigzag, blind hem, stretch stitches. Tension: Adjust upper thread tension (0-9). Feed Dogs: Lower for free-motion work. Reverse: Hold button for backstitching.

Stitch Selection

8 built-in stitches for various sewing applications.

  1. Straight Stitch: Basic sewing, topstitching (stitch length 2.0-2.5mm)
  2. Zigzag Stitch: Finishing edges, appliqué, decorative work
  3. Blind Hem Stitch: Nearly invisible hemming
  4. Stretch Stitches: For knit fabrics and elastic materials
  5. Multiple Zigzag: Mending and reinforcing
  6. Decorative Stitches: Pattern variations for creative projects

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

Basic Sewing Techniques

Fundamental sewing operations for beginners and experienced users.

  1. Starting to Sew: Lower presser foot, gently press foot pedal.
  2. Straight Lines: Use seam guides on needle plate for consistent seams.
  3. Curves: Sew slowly, guiding fabric with hands on both sides.
  4. Corners: Stop with needle down in fabric, lift presser foot, pivot fabric.
  5. Reverse Stitching: Hold reverse button at beginning and end of seams.
  6. Free-Motion: Lower feed dogs for quilting and decorative stitching.
  7. Buttonholes: Use 4-step process with buttonhole foot.

WARNING! Never pull fabric while sewing; let feed dogs move the fabric.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

  1. Daily: Brush out lint from bobbin area and feed dogs.
  2. Weekly: Oil moving parts as indicated in manual (use sewing machine oil only).
  3. Monthly: Clean tension discs and check needle plate for burrs.
  4. Needle Replacement: Change needle after every 8 hours of sewing.
  5. Cover: Use dust cover when not in use.

CAUTION! Unplug machine before cleaning or maintenance. Use only recommended oils.

Accessories

Standard accessories included with Janome 3128.

AccessoryPurpose
Standard Presser FootGeneral sewing
Zipper FootInstalling zippers
Buttonhole FootCreating buttonholes
Darning/Embroidery FootFree-motion work
Seam RipperRemoving stitches
BrushCleaning lint
Additional BobbinsExtra bobbins for thread colors
ScrewdriverNeedle plate removal

Safety Information

Important safety precautions for sewing machine operation.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Thread breakingIncorrect threading/tensionRethread completely; adjust tension; check for burrs on needle plate
Skip stitchesWrong needle/damaged needleReplace needle; ensure correct needle type for fabric
Uneven stitchesTension issuesAdjust upper tension; rethread both upper and bobbin threads
Machine not runningPower/pedal issuesCheck power connection; ensure pedal is plugged in; check power switch
Fabric not feedingFeed dogs loweredRaise feed dogs; clean feed dog area; check presser foot pressure
Noisy operationLint/lack of oilClean and oil machine; check for loose parts

Service: For technical support, contact Janome customer service at 1-800-631-0183 or visit www.janome.com

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