Janome Harmony 1017 Sewing Machine Manual

The Janome Harmony 1017 is a versatile mechanical sewing machine designed for beginners and home sewers, featuring 17 built-in stitches, 4-step buttonhole, drop feed for free-motion sewing, built-in needle threader, top-loading bobbin system, stitch length/width adjustment, reverse sewing, and free arm capability. 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. First-Time Operation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Functions 6. Stitch Selection 7. Threading & Bobbin 8. Maintenance & Cleaning 9. Accessories 10. Safety Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Mechanical sewing machine with 17 stitches, free arm, built-in needle threader, top-loading bobbin system, stitch selection dial, and reverse lever.

FeatureDescription
Built-in stitches17 utility and decorative stitches including straight, zigzag, and stretch stitches
4-step buttonholeEasy buttonhole creation in four simple steps
Drop feedFree-motion sewing capability for quilting and darning
Built-in needle threaderAutomatic needle threading for easy setup
Top-loading bobbinEasy bobbin insertion with clear cover
Stitch length adjustmentAdjustable from 0-4mm for different fabric types
Stitch width adjustmentAdjustable up to 5mm for zigzag and decorative stitches
Reverse sewing leverReinforce stitches at beginning and end of seams
Free armConvertible for sewing sleeves and cuffs
Power and light switchConvenient front-mounted controls

Installation & Setup

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

  1. Remove packaging: Carefully remove all protective materials and tape.
  2. Position machine: Place on sturdy table with adequate workspace around it.
  3. Connect foot control: Plug foot control into machine front port.
  4. Power connection: Plug power cord into machine and wall outlet (120V AC).
  5. Install needle: Loosen needle clamp screw, insert needle with flat side to back, tighten screw.

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

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; follow threading diagram for proper setup.

  1. Thread upper thread: Follow numbered threading path from spool to needle.
  2. Wind bobbin: Place thread on spool pin, wrap around bobbin winder tension, press foot control.
  3. Insert bobbin: Drop bobbin into case with thread moving counterclockwise.
  4. Select stitch: Turn stitch selection dial to desired pattern.
  5. Test sew: Use scrap fabric to test stitch and tension settings.

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

Specifications

Controls and Functions

Access controls via front panel and dials. Main Controls: Power switch, stitch selection dial, stitch length dial, stitch width dial, reverse lever.

Stitch Selection: Turn dial to select from 17 built-in stitches. Stitch Length: Adjust for fabric thickness (0-4mm). Stitch Width: Adjust zigzag and decorative stitches (0-5mm). Reverse: Hold lever for backstitching. Feed Dog: Lower for free-motion work.

Stitch Selection

17 built-in stitches including straight, zigzag, blind hem, stretch, and decorative stitches.

  1. Straight stitch: For basic sewing and seams (stitch 1)
  2. Zigzag stitch: For finishing edges and appliqué (stitch 2)
  3. Blind hem: Nearly invisible hemming (stitch 3)
  4. Stretch stitches: For knit fabrics (stitches 4-6)
  5. Decorative stitches: For embellishment (stitches 7-17)
  6. Buttonhole: 4-step process for perfect buttonholes

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

Threading & Bobbin

Proper threading ensures smooth operation and quality stitches.

  1. Upper threading: Follow numbered path - spool pin, thread guides, tension discs, take-up lever, needle.
  2. Bobbin winding: Place spool on pin, thread through bobbin winder tension, press foot control.
  3. Bobbin insertion: Drop bobbin into case with thread moving counterclockwise, pull thread through slot.
  4. Needle threading: Use built-in needle threader or thread manually from front to back.
  5. Bring up bobbin thread: Hold upper thread, turn handwheel toward you to catch bobbin thread.

WARNING! Always raise presser foot when threading. Ensure thread passes between tension discs.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

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

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

Accessories

Standard accessories included with Janome Harmony 1017:

Safety Information

Important safety precautions for safe sewing machine operation.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Thread breakingIncorrect threading/tensionRethread completely; adjust tension; check for burrs on needle.
Skip stitchesWrong needle/damaged needleReplace needle; ensure correct needle for fabric type.
Bobbin thread bunchingIncorrect bobbin threadingRethread bobbin; ensure bobbin case is clean.
Machine won't runPower connection/foot controlCheck power cord; ensure foot control is plugged in properly.
Uneven stitchesTension issuesAdjust upper tension; clean tension discs; rethread.
Noise/vibrationLint buildup/needle issueClean bobbin area; check needle installation; oil if needed.

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

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