Janome JEM Gold Sewing Machine Manual

The Janome JEM Gold is a compact, lightweight sewing machine designed for portability and ease of use. Featuring 12 built-in stitches, one-step buttonhole, free arm capability, and easy stitch selection dial. Perfect for beginners and sewing enthusiasts who need a reliable machine for basic sewing projects, repairs, and crafts. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Unpacking and Setup 3. Getting Started 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Functions 6. Basic Stitching 7. Advanced Features 8. Maintenance & Cleaning 9. Accessories 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Compact sewing head, built-in carry handle, free arm, stitch selection dial, reverse stitch lever, bobbin winder, foot pedal, and accessory storage.

FeatureDescription
Built-in Stitches12 utility and decorative stitches
One-Step ButtonholeAutomatic buttonhole creation
Free ArmFor sewing sleeves and hard-to-reach areas
Stitch Length ControlAdjustable stitch length dial
Reverse StitchReinforce seams with reverse stitching
Bobbin SystemTop-loading jam-resistant bobbin
Foot PedalVariable speed control
Carry HandleBuilt-in for easy portability
Accessory StorageBuilt-in compartment for feet and tools
Power Requirements110-120V AC operation

Unpacking and Setup

Carefully unpack all components and inspect for damage.

  1. Remove machine from packaging: Lift by carrying handle, not by accessories.
  2. Attach foot pedal: Connect pedal cord to machine port.
  3. Plug in power: Connect power cord to machine and wall outlet.
  4. Install needle: Loosen needle clamp screw, insert needle with flat side to back.
  5. Wind bobbin: Follow bobbin winding instructions in manual.

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

Getting Started

Basic setup for first-time use.

  1. Thread the machine: Follow threading guide printed on machine.
  2. Insert bobbin: Place bobbin in bobbin case with thread unwinding counterclockwise.
  3. Select stitch: Turn stitch selection dial to desired pattern.
  4. Adjust stitch length: Set appropriate length for fabric type.
  5. Test on scrap fabric: Always test stitches before starting project.

CAUTION! Ensure proper needle installation to prevent breakage and damage.

Specifications

Controls and Functions

Main controls located on front and side of machine.

Front Panel: Stitch selection dial, stitch length control, reverse stitch lever, bobbin winder, handwheel.

Stitch Selection: Turn dial to select from 12 built-in stitches including straight stitch, zigzag, blind hem, stretch stitches, and decorative patterns. Stitch Length: Adjust from 0-4mm for different fabric types. Reverse Stitch: Hold lever to sew backwards for seam reinforcement. Bobbin Winder: Automatic bobbin winding with thread cutter. Free Arm: Convert to free arm by removing accessory storage compartment.

Basic Stitching

Fundamental sewing techniques and operations.

  1. Straight Stitch: Use for seams, topstitching, and basting
  2. Zigzag Stitch: For finishing edges, appliqué, and stretch fabrics
  3. Blind Hem: Nearly invisible hemming for garments
  4. Elastic Stitch: For sewing elastic and knit fabrics
  5. Decorative Stitches: Add decorative touches to projects
  6. Reverse Stitching: Secure beginnings and ends of seams

Tip: Always use appropriate needle and thread for your fabric type.

Advanced Features

Special functions and capabilities.

  1. One-Step Buttonhole: Automatic buttonhole in single operation
  2. Free Arm Sewing: Access hard-to-reach areas like sleeves and cuffs
  3. Variable Speed Control: Foot pedal controls sewing speed
  4. Drop Feed: Lower feed dogs for free-motion sewing (optional)
  5. Needle Threader: Built-in needle threading assistance
  6. Presser Foot Pressure: Adjustable for different fabric thicknesses

WARNING! Always raise needle to highest position before changing presser foot.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance.

  1. Daily: Brush out lint from bobbin area and feed dogs
  2. Weekly: Oil machine according to lubrication points diagram
  3. Monthly: Clean tension discs and check needle plate for burrs
  4. As needed: Replace needle after 8-10 hours of sewing

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

Accessories

Included accessories and optional attachments.

AccessoryPurpose
Zigzag FootGeneral purpose sewing
Zipper FootInstalling zippers and piping
Buttonhole FootAutomatic buttonholes
Button Sewing FootAttaching buttons
Class 15 Bobbins (4)Extra bobbins for thread colors
Needles (3)Various sizes for different fabrics
Seam RipperRemoving stitches
BrushCleaning lint and debris
ScrewdriverNeedle plate and foot changes

Warranty Information

Janome JEM Gold comes with limited warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. 25-year limited warranty on mechanical parts. 5-year limited warranty on electrical components. Warranty registration required within 10 days of purchase. For service, contact authorized Janome dealer or visit www.janome.com. Keep original receipt as proof of purchase.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Thread breakingIncorrect threading/tensionRethread machine; check tension settings; replace needle
Skipped stitchesBent needle/wrong needleReplace needle; ensure correct needle for fabric
Machine not feedingFeed dogs loweredRaise feed dogs; check stitch length setting
Bobbin thread bunchingIncorrect bobbin insertionRemove and reinsert bobbin; check threading
Uneven stitchesPoor quality threadUse high-quality thread; clean tension discs
Machine not runningPower issuesCheck power cord connection; ensure pedal is plugged in

Service: Contact authorized Janome dealer or 1-800-631-0183

Online Support: www.janome.com/support

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