janome sewing machine model 108 manual

The Janome Sewing Machine Model 108 is a versatile mechanical sewing machine designed for home use, featuring straight and zigzag stitches, built-in buttonhole function, free arm capability, adjustable stitch length and width, built-in needle threader, top drop-in bobbin system, and multiple presser feet. 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 head, built-in stitch patterns, free arm, accessory compartment, foot pedal, power cord.

Feature	Description
Stitch selection dial	Selects straight, zigzag, and decorative stitches
Stitch length control	Adjusts stitch length from 0-4mm
Stitch width control	Adjusts zigzag width from 0-5mm
Built-in buttonhole	One-step automatic buttonhole
Free arm	Removable extension table for sewing sleeves and cuffs
Built-in needle threader	Assists with threading the needle
Top drop-in bobbin	Easy-to-load bobbin system with clear cover
Reverse stitch lever	Reinforces stitching at beginning and end
Presser foot pressure	Adjustable for different fabric types
Power and light switch	Controls machine power and work light

Installation & Setup

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

Remove machine from packaging: Lift machine by base, not handwheel.
Attach power cord: Plug into machine and wall outlet (120V AC).
Install foot pedal: Place on floor in comfortable position.
Install needle: Loosen needle clamp screw, insert needle with flat side to back.
Wind bobbin: Follow bobbin winding instructions.

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

First-Time Operation

Plug in machine; turn on power switch.

Thread machine: Follow threading path marked on machine.
Insert bobbin: Place bobbin in case with thread unwinding counterclockwise.
Select stitch: Turn stitch selection dial to desired pattern.
Adjust settings: Set stitch length and width as needed.
Test sew: Use scrap fabric to test stitch quality.

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

Specifications

Machine Type: Mechanical sewing machine
Stitches: 8 built-in stitches including straight, zigzag, and decorative
Stitch Length: 0-4mm adjustable
Stitch Width: 0-5mm adjustable for zigzag
Buttonhole: One-step automatic
Bobbin: Top drop-in system, Class 15 bobbins
Needle: Standard domestic 130/705 H system
Presser Feet: Multiple included: zigzag, zipper, buttonhole
Power Source: 120V AC, 60Hz
Dimensions: Standard portable sewing machine size

Controls and Settings

Main controls located on front and side of machine.

Front Panel: Stitch selection dial, stitch length control, stitch width control, reverse stitch lever.

Stitch Selection: Turn dial to select straight stitch (1), zigzag (2-3), stretch stitches (4-5), decorative (6-8). Stitch Length: 0 for darning, 1-4 for regular sewing. Stitch Width: 0 for straight stitch, 1-5 for zigzag width. Reverse: Hold lever for backstitching. Tension: Adjust upper thread tension dial (4-6 for normal fabrics).

Stitch Selection

Eight built-in stitches for various sewing applications.

Straight Stitch (1): Basic sewing, topstitching, basting
Zigzag Stitch (2-3): Seam finishing, appliqué, stretch fabrics
Multiple Zigzag (4): Elastic application, decorative work
Blind Hem (5): Nearly invisible hemming
Stretch Stitch (6): Knits and stretch fabrics
Decorative Stitches (7-8): Embellishment and decorative sewing

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

Threading & Bobbin

Proper threading essential for good stitch quality.

Upper Threading: Raise presser foot, follow numbered path, use built-in threader.
Bobbin Winding: Place spool on pin, thread through tension disc, wind evenly.
Bobbin Insertion: Open cover, drop in bobbin with thread clockwise, pull through slot.
Bring Up Bobbin Thread: Hold upper thread, turn handwheel toward you.

WARNING! Ensure machine is off when threading. Keep threads clean and untangled.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance.

Daily: Brush out lint from bobbin area and feed dogs.
Weekly: Oil moving parts with sewing machine oil (2-3 drops).
Monthly: Check needle for burrs, replace if damaged.
Storage: Cover machine when not in use, store in dry area.

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

Accessories

Standard accessories included with machine.

Accessory	Use
Zigzag Foot	General sewing
Zipper Foot	Installing zippers
Buttonhole Foot	Making buttonholes
Bobbin (4)	Extra bobbins for thread colors
Needles (3)	Spare needles
Seam Ripper	Removing stitches
Brush	Cleaning lint
Screwdriver	Needle plate removal

Regulatory Information

UL Listed: Certified for electrical safety. Copyright © Janome America, Inc. For support, visit www.janome.com or contact 1-800-631-0183. Made for household use. Dispose of according to local electronic waste regulations.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Thread breaking	Incorrect threading/tension	Rethread completely; reduce tension; check for burrs on needle.
Skipped stitches	Wrong needle/damaged needle	Replace needle; ensure correct needle type for fabric.
Uneven stitches	Poor threading/tension	Check upper and lower threading; adjust tension.
Machine jams	Thread buildup	Remove needle plate; clean bobbin area; rethread.
No power	Power connection	Check power cord connection; ensure switch is on.
Poor buttonholes	Stabilizer missing	Use stabilizer for lightweight fabrics; check foot attachment.

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