Janome 605 Sewing Machine Manual

The Janome 605 is a versatile mechanical sewing machine featuring 15 built-in stitches, 4-step buttonhole, drop feed for free-motion sewing, built-in needle threader, stitch length and width adjustment, reverse sewing, and easy stitch selection dial. Powered by 120V AC, this reliable machine is perfect for beginners and experienced sewers alike. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Built-in needle threader, stitch selection dial, stitch width and length controls, reverse sewing lever, drop feed lever, free arm, built-in accessory storage.

Installation and Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable surface.

1. Remove machine from packaging: Lift machine by base, not handwheel.
2. Install foot controller: Plug into machine and power outlet.
3. Thread machine: Follow threading diagram on machine.
4. Insert needle: Flat side toward back, tighten screw securely.
5. Wind bobbin: Use built-in bobbin winder with thread guide.
6. Insert bobbin: Drop-in bobbin system with clear cover.

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

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; test basic functions.

1. Select straight stitch: Turn stitch selector to position 1.
2. Set stitch length: Adjust to 2.5 for medium-weight fabric.
3. Practice sewing: Use scrap fabric to test machine operation.
4. Test reverse: Hold reverse lever to sew backwards.
5. Try zigzag: Select zigzag stitch and adjust width as needed.
6. Create buttonhole: Follow 4-step buttonhole procedure.

CAUTION! Always start with needle in highest position. Keep work area clear of loose threads and fabric.

Specifications

• Stitches: 15 built-in stitches including straight, zigzag, stretch, and decorative
• Buttonhole: 4-step manual buttonhole
• Stitch Length: Adjustable 0-4mm
• Stitch Width: Adjustable 0-5mm
• Needle System: HA-1, 15x1
• Bobbin: Class 15 transparent
• Presser Feet: 4 included: zigzag, zipper, buttonhole, button sewing
• Max Sewing Speed: 860 stitches per minute
• Power Source: 120V AC, 60Hz
• Machine Weight: 12.5 lbs (5.7 kg)

Controls and Settings

Main controls located on front and side of machine. Stitch Selection Dial: Rotate to select desired stitch pattern. Stitch Length Dial: Adjust from 0 (darning) to 4 (basting). Stitch Width Dial: Adjust zigzag width from 0-5mm.

Additional Controls: Reverse Sewing Lever, Drop Feed Lever, Bobbin Winder, Handwheel, Power/Light Switch, Foot Controller.

Thread Tension: Adjust dial for balanced stitches (usually 4-5 for straight stitch). Needle Position: Center position for most sewing. Presser Foot Pressure: Fixed for general sewing.

Stitch Selection Guide

Use stitch selector dial to choose from 15 built-in stitches.

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

Basic Sewing Techniques

Follow these steps for successful sewing projects.

1. Thread machine: Follow numbered threading path exactly.
2. Wind bobbin: Place thread on spool pin, wind evenly.
3. Insert bobbin: Drop into case, pull thread through slot.
4. Raise needle: Turn handwheel to highest position.
5. Lower presser foot: Always sew with foot lowered.
6. Start sewing: Begin with reverse stitches to secure.
7. Guide fabric: Let machine feed, don't pull fabric.
8. Finish seams: End with reverse stitches.
9. Raise presser foot: Before removing fabric.

WARNING! Never sew over pins. Remove pins before they reach needle.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance.

1. Daily: Brush out lint from bobbin area and feed dogs.
2. Weekly: Oil hook race and moving parts (use sewing machine oil only).
3. Monthly: Clean tension discs with folded fabric or dental floss.
4. As needed: Replace needle after 8-10 hours of sewing.
5. Storage: Cover machine when not in use to prevent dust.

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

Accessories

Standard accessories included with Janome 605.

• Presser Feet: Zigzag foot, zipper foot, buttonhole foot, button sewing foot
• Needles: Assorted sizes for different fabrics
• Bobbins: 4 Class 15 transparent bobbins
• Tools: Screwdriver, lint brush, seam ripper
• Additional: Spool pins, darning plate, instruction manual

Optional Accessories: Walking foot, quilting guide, edge stitching foot, rolled hem foot.

Safety Information

Important safety precautions for machine operation.

• Always unplug machine when not in use or during maintenance
• Keep fingers away from moving needle and parts
• Do not operate with damaged power cord
• Use proper needle size and type for fabric
• Keep work area well-lit and organized
• Do not place objects on foot controller
• Supervise children near operating machine
• Disconnect power during electrical storms

Emergency: Turn power switch OFF immediately if machine malfunctions.

Troubleshooting

Service: For persistent issues, contact authorized Janome service center at 1-800-631-0183 or visit www.janome.com