Jolson Sewing Machine Manual

The Jolson Sewing Machine is a versatile household sewing machine designed for various fabric types, featuring multiple stitch patterns, adjustable stitch length and width, built-in needle threader, automatic bobbin winding, free arm capability, LED lighting, and easy tension control. Powered by 110-120V AC, 60Hz. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Unpacking and Setup 3. First-Time Operation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Stitch Selection Guide 7. Threading and Bobbin 9. Maintenance & Cleaning 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Sewing machine head, foot pedal, power cord, accessory box with presser feet, bobbins, needles, and seam ripper.

FeatureDescription
Stitch Selection DialSelects from 20 built-in stitch patterns
Stitch Length ControlAdjusts stitch length from 0-4mm
Stitch Width ControlAdjusts stitch width for zigzag and decorative stitches
Built-in Needle ThreaderAssists with easy needle threading
Automatic Bobbin WinderWinds bobbin automatically when engaged
Free ArmRemovable extension table for cylindrical sewing
LED Work LightIlluminates sewing area
Reverse Stitch ButtonReinforces stitching at beginning and end
Thread Tension DialAdjusts upper thread tension (0-9)
Power/Speed ControlFoot pedal controls sewing speed

Unpacking and Setup

Carefully unpack all components and place on stable surface.

  1. Remove machine from packaging: Lift from carrying case, remove protective materials.
  2. Attach power cord: Plug into machine and wall outlet (110-120V).
  3. Install foot pedal: Connect to machine port, place on floor.
  4. Set up accessory box: Keep all accessories organized and accessible.
  5. Install needle: Loosen needle clamp screw, insert needle with flat side toward back.

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

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; follow setup steps for initial use.

  1. Thread the machine: Follow threading guide from spool to needle.
  2. Wind bobbin: Place empty bobbin on winder, engage mechanism.
  3. Insert bobbin: Open bobbin case, insert with thread pulling counterclockwise.
  4. Select basic stitch: Turn dial to straight stitch position.
  5. Test on scrap fabric: Practice stitching on fabric scrap before projects.

CAUTION! Always use correct needle for fabric type. Keep work area well-lit.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Main controls located on front and top of machine.

Front Panel: Stitch selection dial, stitch length dial, stitch width dial, reverse stitch button, thread tension dial.

Stitch Selection: Turn dial to select desired stitch pattern (marked with icons). Stitch Length: Adjust for shorter/longer stitches. Stitch Width: Control zigzag width. Tension: Adjust for different fabric types (4-5 for medium weight fabrics). Reverse: Hold button for backstitching. Built-in Needle Threader: Lower lever, hook thread, pull up.

Stitch Selection Guide

Choose appropriate stitch for your sewing project.

  1. Straight Stitch: Basic sewing, seams (length 2.0-2.5mm)
  2. Zigzag Stitch: Finishing edges, stretch fabrics (width 2-4mm)
  3. Blind Hem Stitch: Nearly invisible hems
  4. Stretch Stitches: For knit and stretch fabrics
  5. Decorative Stitches: Embellishment and topstitching
  6. Buttonhole: Automatic one-step buttonhole

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

Threading and Bobbin

Proper threading ensures smooth operation.

  1. Upper Threading: Raise presser foot, follow numbered guide from spool pin to needle.
  2. Needle Threader: Lower threader lever, hook thread, pull up through needle eye.
  3. Bobbin Winding: Place spool on pin, thread through guide, wrap around bobbin, push bobbin winder.
  4. Bobbin Insertion: Open cover, place bobbin with thread pulling counterclockwise, pull thread through slot.
  5. Bring Up Bobbin Thread: Hold upper thread, turn handwheel toward you until bobbin thread appears.

WARNING! Always raise needle to highest position before threading. Use quality thread.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance.

  1. Daily: Brush out lint from bobbin area and feed dogs.
  2. Weekly: Oil moving parts with sewing machine oil (2-3 drops).
  3. Monthly: Clean tension discs with soft brush.
  4. As needed: Replace needle after 8-10 hours of sewing.

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

Regulatory Information

UL Listed: Certified for household use in North America. Copyright © 2024 Jolson Sewing Products; all rights reserved. For technical support and warranty service, contact Jolson Customer Service at 1-800-555-JOLSON or visit www.jolsonsewing.com.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Thread breakingIncorrect threading/tensionRethread completely; reduce tension; check for burrs on needle.
Skipped stitchesWrong needle/damaged needleReplace needle; ensure correct type for fabric; rethread.
Machine jamsThread buildup/lintRemove bobbin case; clean lint; rethread carefully.
Uneven stitchesTension issuesAdjust upper and bobbin tension; check threading.
No powerPower connectionCheck wall outlet; ensure power cord fully inserted; check foot pedal connection.
Needle breaksWrong needle/bent needleReplace needle; ensure inserted fully; check for pulling fabric.

Reset: Unplug for 5 minutes to reset electronic components.

Service: 1-800-555-JOLSON; www.jolsonsewing.com

Jolson Sewing Machine Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025