Janome N190 Sewing Machine Manual

The Janome N190 is a versatile household sewing machine featuring 19 built-in stitches, 4-step buttonhole, drop feed for free-motion sewing, built-in needle threader, top drop-in bobbin system, adjustable stitch length and width, free arm capability, and multiple presser feet. Powered by 120V AC, this mechanical sewing machine is ideal for basic sewing, mending, and creative projects. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 19 built-in stitches, 4-step buttonhole, free arm, drop feed, built-in needle threader, top drop-in bobbin system, stitch length/width controls, reverse stitch button, presser foot pressure adjustment.

Installation & Setup

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

1. Remove machine from packaging: Lift machine by carrying handle, remove all protective materials.
2. Attach extension table: Slide onto free arm until it clicks into place.
3. Connect foot control: Plug into machine front socket.
4. Connect power: Plug power cord into machine and wall outlet (120V AC).
5. Install needle: Loosen needle clamp screw, insert needle with flat side toward back, tighten screw.

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 setup steps for initial use.

1. Wind bobbin: Place thread on spool pin, guide through tension disc, wind bobbin evenly.
2. Insert bobbin: Drop bobbin into case with thread counterclockwise, pull thread through slot.
3. Thread upper thread: Follow numbered guides, use built-in needle threader for easy threading.
4. Raise bobbin thread: Hold upper thread, turn handwheel toward you to bring up bobbin thread.
5. Select stitch: Turn stitch selection dial to desired pattern.
6. Test sew: Use scrap fabric to test stitch and tension settings.

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

Specifications

• Stitches: 19 built-in stitches including straight, zigzag, stretch, and decorative
• Buttonhole: 4-step manual buttonhole
• Stitch Length: Adjustable 0-4mm
• Stitch Width: Adjustable 0-5mm
• Bobbin: Top drop-in, Class 15 transparent bobbin
• Needle: Standard household sewing machine needles (HAx1)
• Presser Feet: Snap-on system with multiple included feet
• Free Arm: Yes, with removable extension table
• Power Source: 120V AC, 60Hz
• Machine Weight: Approximately 11 lbs (5 kg)

Controls and Settings

Main controls: Stitch selection dial, stitch length dial, stitch width dial, reverse stitch button, handwheel, power switch, foot control pedal.

Stitch Selection: Turn dial to select from 19 built-in stitches. Stitch Length: Adjust for shorter/longer stitches (0-4mm). Stitch Width: Adjust zigzag and decorative stitch width (0-5mm). Reverse: Hold button for reverse sewing to secure seams. Handwheel: Manual control for precise needle positioning.

Tension: Upper thread tension dial (0-9), bobbin tension preset at factory. Presser Foot Pressure: Adjustable dial for different fabric thicknesses.

Stitch Selection

Stitch patterns include: Straight stitch (left/center/right needle positions), zigzag stitch, multiple stretch stitches for knits, blind hem stitch, overcast stitch, decorative stitches.

1. Straight stitch: For basic sewing, topstitching, basting
2. Zigzag stitch: For finishing edges, appliqué, stretch fabrics
3. Stretch stitches: For knit fabrics and elastic materials
4. Blind hem: Nearly invisible hems on garments
5. Overcast: Prevents fabric fraying
6. Decorative: For creative projects and embellishments

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

Basic Sewing Operations

Step-by-step guide for common sewing tasks.

1. Straight seam: Select straight stitch, align fabric edges, lower presser foot, sew with consistent speed.
2. Zigzag finish: Select zigzag stitch, sew along raw edges to prevent fraying.
3. 4-step buttonhole: Mark button position, follow four-step sequence for perfect buttonholes.
4. Free-motion sewing: Drop feed dogs, use darning foot for quilting or embroidery.
5. Gathering: Use longer straight stitch, pull bobbin thread to gather fabric evenly.
6. Blind hem: Fold hem as directed, use blind hem foot for invisible hems.

WARNING! Never pull fabric through machine - let feed dogs move fabric automatically.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

1. Daily: Brush out lint from bobbin area and feed dogs after each project.
2. Weekly: Oil hook race and moving parts with sewing machine oil (2-3 drops).
3. Monthly: Clean tension discs with folded fabric or dental floss.
4. As needed: Replace needle after 8-10 hours of sewing or if damaged.

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

Accessories

Standard accessories included with Janome N190:

• General Purpose Foot
• Zipper Foot
• Buttonhole Foot
• Blind Hem Foot
• Darning/Embroidery Foot
• Class 15 Bobbins (4)
• Needles (assorted sizes)
• Seam Ripper/Lint Brush
• Screwdriver
• Spool Pin Felt
• Instruction Manual

Safety Information

Important safety precautions for sewing machine operation.

• Always turn off power when threading needle or changing accessories
• Keep fingers away from moving needle and feed dogs
• Disconnect power cord when not in use or during cleaning
• Use proper lighting to see sewing area clearly
• Keep work area clean and free of obstructions
• Do not use damaged or bent needles
• Supervise children and beginners closely
• Use only Janome-approved accessories and parts

Troubleshooting

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