Janome Decor Excel 5018 Sewing Machine Instruction Manual

The Janome Decor Excel 5018 is a versatile 18-stitch sewing machine featuring built-in stitches, one-step buttonhole, automatic needle threader, drop feed for free-motion sewing, stitch length/width adjustment, reverse sewing, and built-in accessory storage. Powered by 120V AC, this machine is suitable for beginners and experienced sewers alike. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation and Setup 3. First-Time Operation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Stitch Selection and Functions 7. Maintenance and Cleaning 8. Accessories and Attachments 9. Safety Precautions 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 18 built-in stitches, automatic needle threader, drop feed, reverse sewing, built-in buttonhole, free arm, accessory storage compartment.

Feature	Description
Built-in stitches	18 utility and decorative stitches including stretch stitches
Automatic needle threader	Easy threading with push-pull mechanism
Drop feed	Lower feed dogs for free-motion sewing and darning
Reverse sewing	Reinforce seams with reverse stitch button
One-step buttonhole	Automatic buttonhole creation
Stitch length adjustment	Adjustable from 0-4mm
Stitch width adjustment	Adjustable from 0-5mm
Free arm	Convertible for sewing sleeves and cuffs
Built-in accessory storage	Convenient storage in free arm
Power switch	Main power control with light indicator

Installation and Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable surface.

Remove machine from packaging: Lift carefully from carrying case.
Position machine: Place on sturdy table with adequate workspace.
Connect foot control: Plug into machine front socket.
Connect power: Plug power cord into machine and wall outlet.
Install needle: Loosen needle clamp screw, insert needle with flat side to back.
Wind bobbin: Follow bobbin winding instructions.

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

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; follow basic setup steps.

Thread machine: Follow threading path marked on machine.
Insert bobbin: Place bobbin in bobbin case with thread unwinding counterclockwise.
Select stitch: Turn stitch selection dial to desired pattern.
Adjust settings: Set stitch length and width as needed.
Test sew: Use scrap fabric to test stitch quality.
Practice basic stitches: Straight stitch, zigzag, and buttonhole.

CAUTION! Always start with needle in highest position. Keep work area well-lit.

Specifications

Stitches: 18 built-in stitches
Buttonhole: One-step automatic
Stitch Length: 0-4mm adjustable
Stitch Width: 0-5mm adjustable
Needle Threader: Automatic
Feed System: Drop feed with free-motion capability
Free Arm: Yes, with accessory storage
Power Source: 120V AC, 60Hz
Machine Weight: Approximately 11 lbs (5 kg)
Warranty: 25-year limited warranty

Controls and Settings

Main controls: Power switch, stitch selection dial, stitch length dial, stitch width dial, reverse stitch button.

Stitch Selection: Turn dial to select from 18 built-in stitches. Stitch Length: Adjust from 0 (darning) to 4mm (basting). Stitch Width: Adjust from 0 (straight stitch) to 5mm (zigzag). Reverse: Hold button for reverse stitching. Needle Position: Handwheel adjustment for needle up/down.

Stitch Selection and Functions

Built-in stitches include straight, zigzag, stretch, and decorative patterns.

Straight stitch: Basic sewing, position 1 on dial.
Zigzag stitch: Overcasting, appliqué, position 2-4.
Blind hem: Nearly invisible hems, position 5.
Stretch stitches: For knit fabrics, positions 6-8.
Decorative stitches: Embellishment, positions 9-18.
Buttonhole: One-step automatic, position B.

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

Maintenance and Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance.

Daily: Brush lint from bobbin area and feed dogs.
Weekly: Oil hook race and moving parts (use sewing machine oil only).
Monthly: Clean tension discs with folded fabric strip.
As needed: Replace needle after 8-10 hours of sewing.

WARNING! Unplug machine before cleaning or maintenance. Use only Janome-approved accessories.

Accessories and Attachments

Standard accessories included: All-purpose foot, zipper foot, buttonhole foot, button sewing foot, seam ripper, needles, bobbins, screwdriver, lint brush, spool caps.

Accessory	Use
All-purpose foot	General sewing
Zipper foot	Installing zippers
Buttonhole foot	Creating buttonholes
Button sewing foot	Attaching buttons
Seam ripper	Removing stitches

Safety Precautions

Always follow safety guidelines to prevent injury.

Keep fingers away from moving needle
Unplug when not in use or during maintenance
Use proper lighting in work area
Keep machine clean and free of lint
Use correct needle for fabric type
Do not pull fabric while sewing

CAUTION! Never operate with damaged power cord or foot control.

Regulatory Information

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Needle breaks	Incorrect insertion/bent needle	Replace needle; ensure flat side to back; check for proper insertion
Thread bunching	Incorrect threading/tension	Re-thread machine; check bobbin threading; adjust tension
Skip stitches	Dull needle/wrong needle type	Replace needle; use correct needle for fabric
Machine won't run	Power connection/foot control	Check power cord; ensure foot control plugged in; check power switch
Uneven stitches	Thread tension/fabric feed	Adjust upper tension; clean feed dogs; check presser foot pressure

Service: 1-800-631-0183; www.janome.com