John Lewis JL110 Sewing Machine Instruction Manual

The John Lewis JL110 is a versatile mechanical sewing machine featuring 10 built-in stitches, 4-step buttonhole, free arm capability, built-in light, adjustable stitch length and width, reverse sewing, drop feed for darning and quilting, and easy threading system. Suitable for beginners and intermediate sewers, this machine handles various fabrics with included accessories like presser feet, bobbins, needles, and seam ripper. 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. Basic Sewing Techniques 8. Maintenance & Cleaning 9. Accessories 10. Safety Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Mechanical sewing machine with free arm, built-in stitches, reverse function, and included accessories.

FeatureDescription
Built-in Stitches10 different stitches including straight, zigzag, and decorative
4-step ButtonholeEasy buttonhole creation in four simple steps
Free ArmRemovable extension table for sewing cuffs and sleeves
Stitch Length ControlAdjustable from 0-4mm
Stitch Width ControlAdjustable up to 5mm for zigzag stitches
Reverse SewingReinforce seams with reverse stitch button
Drop Feed DogFor darning, quilting, and free-motion sewing
Built-in LightIlluminates sewing area
Bobbin SystemTop-loading bobbin with clear cover
Power Requirements110-120V, 60Hz

Installation & Setup

Unpack and inspect all contents. Place on stable, flat surface.

  1. Remove machine from packaging and all protective materials.
  2. Attach power cord to machine and plug into wall outlet.
  3. Install foot controller and place in comfortable position.
  4. Wind bobbin and thread machine following threading guide.
  5. Install appropriate needle for your fabric type.

WARNING! Keep fingers away from needle area during operation. Always turn off machine when threading or changing accessories.

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; test stitches on scrap fabric first.

  1. Select straight stitch with medium length (2.5-3.0).
  2. Place fabric under presser foot and lower foot lever.
  3. Gently press foot controller to begin sewing.
  4. Practice guiding fabric without pulling or pushing.
  5. Use reverse stitch at beginning and end of seams.

CAUTION! Always disconnect power when not in use. Keep work area clean and well-lit.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Main controls: Stitch selection dial, stitch length dial, stitch width dial, reverse stitch button.

Stitch Selection: Turn dial to choose from 10 built-in stitches. Stitch Length: Adjust from 0 (for darning) to 4mm (basting). Stitch Width: Adjust zigzag width from 0-5mm. Reverse: Hold button to sew backwards for reinforcement. Presser Foot Pressure: Adjustable for different fabric weights.

Stitch Selection

Available stitches and their applications:

  1. Straight Stitch: Basic sewing, topstitching (center needle position)
  2. Zigzag Stitch: Finishing edges, appliqué, stretch fabrics
  3. Blind Hem Stitch: Nearly invisible hems on garments
  4. Elastic Stitch: Sewing elastic, decorative stitching
  5. Shell Stitch: Decorative edge finishing
  6. Multiple Zigzag: Mending, reinforcing seams
  7. Stretch Stitches: 3-step zigzag for knit fabrics

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

Basic Sewing Techniques

Essential techniques for successful sewing:

  1. Threading: Follow numbered guide on machine; ensure presser foot is raised
  2. Bobbin Winding: Wind bobbin evenly without overfilling
  3. Needle Installation: Flat side toward back, tighten securely
  4. Seam Sewing: Guide fabric gently, let feed dogs move fabric
  5. Corners: Stop with needle down, lift presser foot, pivot fabric
  6. Curves: Sew slowly, guide fabric smoothly around curves
  7. Buttonholes: Use 4-step process with buttonhole foot

WARNING! Never sew over pins - remove them as you approach.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance.

  1. Unplug machine before cleaning or maintenance
  2. Remove needle plate and clean lint buildup with brush
  3. Oil moving parts as indicated in manual (use sewing machine oil only)
  4. Wipe exterior with soft, dry cloth
  5. Cover machine when not in use to prevent dust accumulation

CAUTION! Use only recommended sewing machine oil. Never use household oils.

Accessories

Included accessories and their uses:

AccessoryUse
Zigzag FootGeneral sewing, zigzag stitches
Buttonhole FootCreating buttonholes
Zipper FootInstalling zippers, piping
Button Sewing FootAttaching buttons
Extra Bobbins (3)Additional thread colors
Needles (3)Different sizes for various fabrics
Seam RipperRemoving stitches
BrushCleaning lint
ScrewdriverNeedle plate removal

Safety Information

Important safety precautions for sewing machine use:

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Thread breakingIncorrect threading/tensionRethread completely; adjust tension
Needle breakingBent needle/wrong sizeReplace needle; use correct size for fabric
Skipped stitchesDull needle/incorrect needleChange needle; ensure proper installation
Uneven stitchesPoor quality threadUse good quality thread; clean machine
Machine not runningPower issuesCheck power connection; foot controller plugged in
Bobbin issuesIncorrect winding/insertionRewind bobbin evenly; insert correctly
Fabric not feedingFeed dogs loweredRaise feed dogs; clean feed dog area

Service: For technical support, contact John Lewis customer service or authorized service center.

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