Janome 659 Mechanical Sewing Machine Instruction Manual

The Janome 659 is a mechanical sewing machine featuring 12 built-in stitches, 4-step buttonhole, free arm capability, drop feed for darning and quilting, built-in thread cutter, stitch length and width adjustment, reverse sewing function, built-in light, and easy threading system. Suitable for beginners and experienced sewers alike. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Mechanical stitch selection dial, free arm, built-in stitches, drop feed mechanism, built-in light, reverse lever.

Installation & Setup

Unpack and inspect all contents. Place on stable, level surface.

1. Remove machine from packaging: Lift machine by base, not handwheel.
2. Attach power cord: Plug into machine and wall outlet (120V, 60Hz).
3. Install foot controller: Connect to machine port, place on floor.
4. Install needle: Loosen needle clamp screw, insert needle with flat side to back, tighten screw.
5. Wind bobbin: Follow bobbin winding instructions in threading section.

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

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; test basic functions.

1. Thread machine: Follow numbered threading path from spool to needle.
2. Insert bobbin: Drop-in bobbin system with clear cover.
3. Select straight stitch: Turn dial to position 1.
4. Test sew: Use scrap fabric to practice stitching.
5. Adjust tension: Start with dial at 4, adjust as needed for fabric.
6. Practice reverse: Use reverse lever to reinforce stitches.

CAUTION! Always start with needle in highest position. Keep hands clear of moving parts.

Specifications

• Stitches: 12 built-in stitches
• Buttonhole: 4-step manual buttonhole
• Stitch Length: 0-4mm adjustable
• Stitch Width: Up to 5mm for zigzag
• Presser Feet: Snap-on system with multiple feet included
• Free Arm: Yes, with removable flat bed
• Feed System: Drop feed with lever control
• Power Source: 120V AC, 60Hz
• Machine Weight: 12.5 lbs (5.7 kg)
• Warranty: 25-year limited warranty

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, bobbin winder, tension dial.

Stitch Selection: Turn dial to select from 12 stitches (straight, zigzag, stretch, decorative). Stitch Length: 0-4mm adjustment for stitch density. Stitch Width: 0-5mm for zigzag width. Tension: 0-9 adjustment for thread tension. Reverse: Lever for backward stitching to secure seams.

Stitch Selection

12 built-in stitches for various sewing applications.

1. Straight Stitch (1): Basic sewing, topstitching
2. Zigzag Stitch (2): Finishing edges, appliqué
3. Three-Step Zigzag (3): Stretch fabrics, mending
4. Blind Hem Stitch (4): Nearly invisible hems
5. Stretch Stitch (5): Knits and stretch fabrics
6. Decorative Stitches (6-12): Various patterns for decoration
7. Buttonhole (B): 4-step process for professional buttonholes

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

Threading & Bobbin

Easy threading system with drop-in bobbin.

1. Raise presser foot and needle to highest position.
2. Place spool on spool pin, follow numbered threading path.
3. Thread through tension discs, take-up lever, and needle.
4. Wind bobbin: Place empty bobbin on winder, thread through bobbin winding tension.
5. Insert bobbin: Drop bobbin into case with thread pulling counterclockwise.
6. Pull bobbin thread up through needle plate.

WARNING! Ensure machine is unplugged during threading. Always use same thread in bobbin and needle.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance.

1. Unplug machine before cleaning.
2. Remove needle plate: Use screwdriver to access bobbin area.
3. Clean lint: Use small brush to remove lint from feed dogs and bobbin area.
4. Oil machine: Apply sewing machine oil to moving parts as specified in manual.
5. Replace needle: Change needle after every 8 hours of sewing or for new project.
6. Store properly: Cover machine when not in use to prevent dust accumulation.

CAUTION! Use only sewing machine oil. Do not use household oils.

Accessories

Standard accessories included with Janome 659.

Safety Information

Important safety precautions for sewing machine operation.

• Always unplug machine when not in use or during maintenance
• Keep fingers away from moving needle and presser foot
• Do not sew over pins - remove them before stitching
• Use proper needle and thread for fabric type
• Ensure adequate lighting in sewing area
• Keep machine clean and free of lint buildup
• Store foot controller out of reach of children
• Do not operate if cord or plug is damaged

EMERGENCY: In case of electrical issues, immediately unplug machine.

Troubleshooting

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