Janome RE1306 Sewing Machine Manual

The Janome RE1306 is a versatile computerized sewing machine featuring 30 built-in stitches, one-step auto buttonhole, automatic needle threader, drop feed for free-motion sewing, built-in thread cutter, adjustable stitch length and width, reverse sewing, and easy stitch selection dial. Suitable for beginners and experienced sewers alike, this machine offers reliable performance for various sewing projects. 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. Stitch Selection 7. Basic Sewing Operations 8. Maintenance and Care 9. Accessories 10. Safety Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Computerized control panel, stitch selection dial, automatic needle threader, drop feed lever, built-in thread cutter, reverse button, stitch width/length adjustment.

Feature	Description
Built-in Stitches	30 utility and decorative stitches including stretch stitches
One-Step Buttonhole	Automatic buttonhole creation with consistent results
Automatic Needle Threader	Easy threading with push-button mechanism
Drop Feed	Free-motion sewing capability for quilting and darning
Built-in Thread Cutter	Convenient thread cutting on machine side
Reverse Sewing	Reinforce seams with reverse stitch button
Stitch Selection Dial	Easy stitch pattern selection
Stitch Length/Width	Adjustable settings for customization
Power/Speed Control	Foot pedal with variable speed control
LED Light	Built-in work area illumination

Unpacking and Setup

Remove all packaging materials and inspect contents carefully.

Remove machine from box: Lift using handles on both sides.
Attach accessory box: Slide into designated compartment.
Install foot pedal: Connect to power cord port at machine rear.
Connect power: Plug into standard 120V AC outlet.
Install needle: Loosen needle clamp screw, insert needle with flat side toward back.
Wind bobbin: Follow bobbin winding instructions in manual.

WARNING! Machine is heavy; use proper lifting technique. Ensure stable surface placement.

Getting Started

Basic setup for first-time use.

Thread machine: Follow numbered threading path; use automatic needle threader.
Insert bobbin: Drop-in bobbin system with clear cover.
Select stitch: Turn dial to desired stitch pattern.
Adjust settings: Set stitch length and width as needed.
Test sew: Use scrap fabric to test stitch quality.
Practice basic operations: Straight stitch, zigzag, reverse.

CAUTION! Always turn off power when threading or changing needles.

Specifications

Stitches: 30 built-in stitches
Buttonhole: One-step automatic
Needle Threader: Automatic push-button
Feed System: Drop feed with lever
Stitch Length: Adjustable up to 4mm
Stitch Width: Adjustable up to 5mm
Bobbin: Front-loading drop-in type
Presser Feet: 4 included snap-on feet
Power Requirements: 120V AC, 60Hz
Warranty: 25-year limited warranty

Controls and Functions

Main control panel located on front right side of machine.

Primary Controls: Power switch, stitch selection dial, stitch length dial, stitch width dial, reverse button, thread cutter.

Stitch Selection: Turn dial to select from 30 built-in patterns. Stitch Length: Adjust from 0-4mm for stitch density. Stitch Width: Adjust from 0-5mm for zigzag and decorative stitches. Reverse: Hold button for backward stitching. Thread Cutter: Built-in blade for cutting threads. Drop Feed: Lower feed dogs for free-motion work. Needle Position: Manual wheel for needle positioning.

Stitch Selection

Comprehensive stitch chart with recommended applications.

Straight Stitches: 1-3 for basic sewing and reinforcement
Zigzag Stitches: 4-6 for finishing edges and stretch fabrics
Decorative Stitches: 7-20 for embellishment and special effects
Stretch Stitches: 21-25 for knit fabrics and elastic
Buttonhole: Position 26 for automatic one-step buttonholes
Blind Hem: Position 27 for invisible hemming
Overcast: Position 28-30 for seam finishing

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

Basic Sewing Operations

Step-by-step guide for common sewing tasks.

Straight Stitching: Select stitch 1, guide fabric with even pressure
Zigzag Sewing: Select stitch 4, adjust width as needed
Buttonhole Making: Position 26, follow automatic sequence
Reverse Stitching: Hold reverse button at beginning/end of seams
Free-Motion: Drop feed dogs, use darning foot for quilting
Gathering: Use longer stitch length with tension adjustment
Blind Hem: Use position 27 with blind hem foot
Overcasting: Use position 28 with overcast foot

WARNING! Keep fingers away from moving needle. Always use presser foot.

Maintenance and Care

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 soft brush. As Needed: Replace needle after 8-10 hours of sewing.

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

Accessories

Standard included accessories and their uses.

Accessory	Purpose
All-Purpose Foot	General sewing
Zigzag Foot	Decorative stitches
Buttonhole Foot	Automatic buttonholes
Blind Hem Foot	Invisible hemming
Bobbin (x4)	Thread storage
Needles (assorted)	Different fabric types
Seam Ripper	Stitch removal
Brush	Lint cleaning
Screwdriver	Needle plate removal

Safety Information

Important safety precautions for machine operation.

Electrical Safety: Use only 120V outlet; avoid extension cords. Operation: Keep hands away from moving parts; never sew over pins. Maintenance: Unplug before cleaning; use proper tools. Storage: Cover when not in use; store in dry location. Children: Supervise children near operating machine.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Machine won't start	Power connection	Check power cord; ensure switch is on; test outlet
Thread breaking	Tension/needle issues	Rethread machine; check needle condition; adjust tension
Uneven stitches	Threading/tension	Rethread both top and bobbin; clean tension discs
Fabric not feeding	Feed dogs	Check drop feed lever position; clean feed dogs
Needle breaking	Bent needle/wrong size	Replace needle; ensure correct insertion; check for obstructions
Bobbin issues	Winding/insertion	Rewind bobbin evenly; ensure correct insertion direction
Buttonhole problems	Stabilizer/foot	Use stabilizer; ensure proper foot attachment; test on scrap

Service: Contact authorized Janome service center for repairs. Customer support: 1-800-631-0183