janome limited edition sewing machine model 108 manual

The Janome Limited Edition Sewing Machine Model 108 is a premium mechanical sewing machine featuring 18 built-in stitches, 4-step buttonhole, free arm capability, built-in needle threader, drop feed for free-motion sewing, stitch length and width adjustment, reverse sewing function, built-in LED light, and accessory storage. 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 Settings 6. Stitch Selection 7. Threading & Bobbin 8. Maintenance & Cleaning 9. Accessories 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Mechanical sewing machine with free arm, built-in stitches, accessory compartment, and LED work light.

FeatureDescription
Built-in stitches18 utility and decorative stitches including straight, zigzag, and stretch stitches
4-step buttonholeEasy buttonhole creation with precise sizing
Free arm capabilityFor sewing sleeves, cuffs, and other tubular items
Built-in needle threaderAutomatic needle threading for convenience
Drop feed mechanismFor free-motion sewing and quilting
Stitch length adjustment0-4mm adjustable stitch length
Stitch width adjustment0-5mm adjustable stitch width
Reverse sewing leverFor reinforcing stitches at beginning and end of seams
Built-in LED lightBright illumination of work area
Accessory storageBuilt-in compartment for feet, bobbins, and needles

Installation & Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable sewing table or cabinet.

  1. Remove protective packaging: Remove all foam inserts and tape from machine.
  2. Position machine: Place on flat, stable surface at comfortable working height.
  3. Install foot controller: Connect foot pedal to machine port.
  4. Power connection: Plug power cord into 120V AC outlet.
  5. Install needle: Insert needle with flat side facing back, tighten screw.
  6. Wind bobbin: Follow bobbin winding instructions in threading section.

WARNING! Machine is heavy; lift with care to avoid injury. Ensure stable surface placement.

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; follow initial setup procedures.

  1. Thread machine: Follow numbered threading path on machine.
  2. Insert bobbin: Place bobbin in bobbin case with thread unwinding counterclockwise.
  3. Select stitch: Turn stitch selector dial to desired stitch pattern.
  4. Adjust settings: Set stitch length and width according to fabric type.
  5. Test sew: Use scrap fabric to test stitch formation and tension.
  6. Adjust tension: Fine-tune upper thread tension for balanced stitches.

CAUTION! Keep fingers away from needle area during operation. Always turn off when not in use.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Main controls located on front and side of machine.

Front Panel: Stitch selector dial, stitch length dial, stitch width dial, reverse lever, bobbin winder.

Stitch Selection: Turn dial to select from 18 built-in stitches (straight, zigzag, blind hem, stretch, decorative). Stitch Length: 0-4mm adjustment for different fabric weights. Stitch Width: 0-5mm adjustment for zigzag and decorative stitches. Reverse: Hold lever for backstitching. Tension: Upper thread tension dial (0-9 settings).

Stitch Selection

18 built-in stitches for various sewing applications.

  1. Straight stitch: For basic seams (stitch 1)
  2. Zigzag stitch: For finishing edges and appliqué (stitch 2)
  3. Blind hem stitch: For nearly invisible hems (stitch 3)
  4. Stretch stitches: For knit fabrics (stitches 4-6)
  5. Decorative stitches: For embellishment (stitches 7-18)
  6. Buttonhole: 4-step process using stitches A-D

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

Threading & Bobbin

Proper threading essential for quality stitches.

  1. Upper threading: Follow numbered path; use built-in needle threader.
  2. Bobbin winding: Place spool on pin, thread through bobbin winder tension.
  3. Bobbin insertion: Remove bobbin case, insert bobbin with thread counterclockwise.
  4. Thread drawing: Hold upper thread, turn hand wheel to bring up bobbin thread.
  5. Tension adjustment: Adjust upper tension for balanced stitches on both sides.

WARNING! Always turn power off when threading needle or changing bobbin.

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.

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

Accessories

Included accessories stored in built-in compartment.

Regulatory Information

UL Listed: Complies with UL 859 safety standards. FCC Part 15: Class B digital device. Copyright © 2024 Janome; trademarks of Janome America, Inc. For technical support, visit www.janome.com or contact 1-800-631-0183. Made in Taiwan.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Thread breakingIncorrect threading/tensionRe-thread completely; reduce tension; check for burrs on needle.
Skip stitchesWrong needle/bent needleReplace needle; ensure correct needle type for fabric.
Bobbin thread bunchingIncorrect bobbin insertionRemove and reinsert bobbin; check bobbin case.
Machine not feedingFeed dogs loweredRaise feed dogs; clean feed dog area.
Noisy operationLint buildup/needs oilingClean lint from bobbin area; oil moving parts.
Needle breaksWrong needle size/bent needleUse correct needle size; replace bent needle.

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

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