Janome Quilt Maker Pro 20 VERSA ST User manual

USER MANUAL
VERSION 1.0
The information contained in this document is subject to change without notice. If you find any problems
in the manual, please report them to us in writing. This document is not warranted to be error-free.
Janome America, Inc. assumes no responsibility or liability for any errors or inaccuracies that may appear
in the informational content contained in this manual.
© 2023 Janome America, Inc. All rights reserved. Printed in the U.S.A.
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How to Use this Manual
Special Information
NOTE: A NOTE indicates important information that helps you make better use
of your JanomeQuilter product.
ÂIMPORTANT: An IMPORTANT note provides information that is essential to
properly using your Janome product.
UCAUTION: A CAUTION indicates a potential for causing harm to your quilting
machine, the quilt, or to yourself.
QUILTING TIP: Janome Educators share tips to get you started quilting.
Finding Information
What are you looking for? ................................................................................... Find it here
Warranty Information .......................................................................................... User Manual
Safety Information ............................................................................................... User Manual
Regulatory Information ....................................................................................... User Manual
What’s Included with your Machine .................................................................. User Manual
Machine Specifications........................................................................................ User Manual
Table Setup Information................................................................. Table Installation Manual
Machine Setup Information................................................................................. User Manual
How to Thread your Machine..............................................................Quick Reference Card
Needle System for your Machine .......................................................Quick Reference Card
Basic Maintenance................................................................................................ User Manual
Troubleshooting ................................................................................................... User Manual
Training and Education Options ............................................................... www.janome.com
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Contents
How to Use this Manual ..................................................................................... 2
Congratulations on Your Purchase! ................................................................. 5
What’s Included with Your Machine ............................................................................. 5
Important Safety Information........................................................................... 6
About Your Machine ......................................................................................................... 10
Get to Know Your QMP20 Versa ST ............................................................................12
Installation and Setup.......................................................................................15
Installing the Power Cord ................................................................................................15
Installing the Foot Pedal .................................................................................................15
Installing the Thread Mast ...............................................................................................15
Installing the Color Touchscreen ..................................................................................16
Using Your Machine...........................................................................................18
Power Switch........................................................................................................................18
Lighting...................................................................................................................................18
Magnetic Tool Minder Collar ..........................................................................................18
Machine Needle ...................................................................................................................19
Hopping Feet........................................................................................................................21
Bobbin and Bobbin Tension...........................................................................................22
Thread Tension....................................................................................................................24
Tension Quick Start Guide..............................................................................................26
Threading the Machine ...................................................................................................26
Quilting with the Quilt Maker Pro Versa ST.................................................. 28
Preparing to Quilt ..............................................................................................................28
Using the Touchscreen Displays.....................................................................30
Overview of the Main Screen ....................................................................................... 30
Stitching Modes................................................................................................................. 34
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Toolbar Options................................................................................................39
Controlling the Lights ......................................................................................................39
Machine Tools..................................................................................................................... 40
Machine Settings................................................................................................................47
Information Screens..........................................................................................................53
Machine Maintenance ......................................................................................56
Clean and Oil Your QMP20 Versa ST .........................................................................56
Maintenance Schedule.....................................................................................................57
Troubleshooting ............................................................................................... 58
Appendix 1.........................................................................................................65
QMP20 Versa ST Warranty........................................................................66-67
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Quilt Maker Pro 20 Versa ST User Manual | 5
Congratulations on Your Purchase!
You haven’t just purchased a quilting machine; you’ve joined the Janome family, and we
welcome you. You have acquired the most advanced quilting machine available in today’s market.
Janome is committed to innovation, reliability, customer service, and education. Our machines
are designed by Quilters, for Quilters, and we are committed to your quilting success.
Your new quilting friends are already there, waiting for you! Remember, if you ever have
questions, your local Janome retailer can help you.
Keep the carton and packing materials. You will need them if you need to return the machine to
the retailer or send it for repair. If you don’t pack the machine properly or if you don’t use the
correct packaging materials, the machine could be damaged. Janome is not liable for damage
that occurs during return shipping.
ÂIMPORTANT: These packaging materials are designed to prevent the machine from
being damaged. Keep them in case you need to bring this machine to the dealer or send
it for repair.
What’s Included
• Quilt Maker Pro 20 Versa ST Machine
• Bobbins (5)
• Bobbin case
• Needle (134) size 100/16 (pack of 10)
• Needle (134) size 110/18 (pack of 10)
• Thread tray and thread mast
• EZ Pen Oiler
• Power cord
• Screwdriver
• 2 mm hex wrench
• 2.5 mm hex wrench
• 3 mm hex wrench
• 5 mm hex wrench
• Open-toe foot
(closed-toe foot installed)
• Touchscreen display
• Quick Reference Card
• Bobbin Winder
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Important Safety Information
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two
conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept
any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. See the
full Declaration of Conformity in the Appendix.
ÂIMPORTANT: Do not operate your QMP20 Versa ST quilting machine until you have
completely read the information contained in this manual. Please keep all packaging
and order information for warranty purposes.
Important Safety Instructions
Read all instructions before using this machine. When using this machine, basic safety
precautions should always be followed, including the following:
DANGER —To reduce the risk of electric shock:
• A quilting machine should never be left unattended when plugged in. Always unplug the
machine from the electrical outlet immediately after using and before cleaning.
WARNING — To reduce the risk of burns, fire, electric shock, or injury to persons:
• The QMP20 Versa ST is heavy. Never attempt to lift it alone. Always use two people when
lifting. Always lift from the throat of the machine.
• Always unplug the QMP20 Versa ST from the electrical outlet when performing any
maintenance, changing the needle, removing thread locks, or when left unattended.
• Do not unplug by pulling on cord. To unplug, grasp the plug, not the cord.
• Keep fingers away from all moving parts. Use caution around the needle or sharp
external components.
• Change the needle often. Do not use bent or dull needles. “Every quilt deserves
a new needle”.
• Switch the machine to the symbol o, or , position to turn it o when making any
adjustments in the needle area, such as threading needle, changing needle, threading
bobbin, changing hopping foot, and so forth.
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Quilt Maker Pro 20 Versa ST User Manual | 7
• Never drop or insert foreign objects into any opening.
• The QMP20 Versa ST should only be used indoors away from moisture.
• The QMP20 Versa ST should not be stored or used in extreme temperatures.
• Use the QMP20 Versa ST only for its intended use as described in this manual.
• To disconnect from the wall outlet, push the switch to the o position, then remove the
plug from outlet pulling from the plug, not the cord. Never operate the QMP20 Versa ST
if the cord is damaged or not working correctly. If a mechanical or electrical problem is
encountered, return the QMP20 Versa ST to the nearest authorized service center or
the manufacturer for examination, repair, electrical, or mechanical adjustment.
• It is not recommended that the QMP20 Versa ST quilting machine be used with any table
other than those recommended by Janome.
• Use the QMP20 Versa ST only for its intended use as described in this manual. Use only
attachments recommended by the manufacturer as contained in this manual.
• Never operate the machine with any air openings blocked. Keep ventilation openings of the
machine free from the accumulation of lint, dust, and loose cloth.
• Do not operate where aerosol (spray) products or oxygen is being used/administered.
• Do not pull or push the fabric under the machine excessively while stitching. It may deflect
the needle enough to cause it to break.
• Use only needles designed for free motion quilting and recommended by Janome for this
machine. Other types of needles may be break during normal quilting.
• Children shall not play with the machine. Close attention is necessary when this machine is
used by or near children.
• This appliance is not intended for use by persons (including children) with reduced
physical, sensory, or mental capabilities, or lack of experience and knowledge, unless they
have been given supervision or instruction concerning use of the appliance by a person
responsible for their safety.
• Children should be supervised to ensure that they do not play with the appliance.
• Cleaning and user maintenance shall not be made by children without supervision.
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Save These Instructions
This machine is intended for household or commercial use.
Disclaimer
Janome and its Retailers are in no way legally responsible or liable for damage to the QMP20
Versa ST when used improperly or not in accordance with the guidelines stated in this manual
or when used on machine quilting tables not recommended by Janome.
To use the machine safely
1. Carefully watch the needle when sewing. Do not touch the hand wheel, take up lever,
needle, or other moving parts.
2. Turn the machine o and unplug the cord in the following cases:
• when you have stopped using the machine
• when you replace or remove the needle or any other part
• when you check or clean the machine
• when you leave the machine unattended
3. Connect the machine directly to the wall outlet or to a surge protector that connects
directly to the wall outlet. Do not use extension cords.
To increase the life of your machine
1. Do not store this machine in areas exposed to direct sunlight or high humidity. Never use
or store the machine near a heater, an iron, a halogen lamp or other hot things.
2. Use only neutral soaps or detergents to clean the machine. Benzene, solvents and
scouring powders can damage the case and the machine and therefore should never be
used.
3. Do not drop or bump the machine.
4. Always consult the manual to replace or fix the hopping foot, needle or any other part of
the machine. If necessary contact an authorized Janome retailer.
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Quilt Maker Pro 20 Versa ST User Manual | 9
To repair or adjust the machine
If the machine breaks down or needs adjustment, first check the troubleshooting chart in
the appendix to inspect and adjust the machine yourself.
For more product information and updates, visit our website at www.janome.com.
The contents of this manual and product specifications are subject to change without prior
notice. Check for updated manuals at: www.janome.com.
Recommended Use and Storage
1. It is recommended that our products be operated within in a temperature range of
60°F to 90°F.
2. Store products in a climate-controlled environment with the following provisions:
• Store machine in the original packaging, which contains the internal supports
designed specifically to maintain and protect the machine during transport
or storage.
• Detach cables and accessories before packing.
• To best protect your electronics, store them in the original packaging, especially
any that arrived in anti-static containers.
3. Storage or use in an environment other than what is recommended may result in
• Damaging condensation
• Rust
• Premature wear
• Overheating
• Poor performance
• Shortened battery life
4. If the product is stored at a temperature above or below the recommended operating
range, allow the machine to acclimate to the operating environment before use.
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About Your Machine
General Specifications
The Quilt Maker Pro 20 Versa ST machine uses high-tech electronics and an innovative
touchscreen user interface to oer greater functionality and ease of operation to home quilters
than ever before conceived in the quilting industry. The QMP20 Versa ST quilting machine is a
high quality machine that both incorporates robust design features and is easy to service.
Sewing Opening
Dimensions
(228 mm X 521 mm) 9 inches X 20.5 inches
Sewing Speed Manual Mode: from 25 stitches per minute to 2500 stitches per
minute
Regulated Mode: from 0 stitches per minute to full speed
Stitches Per Inch 4 stitches per inch to 24 stitches per inch
Basting mode: one stitch per quarter inch, one stitch per half
inch, one stitch per inch, one stitch every two inches, and one
stitch every four inches
Needle System 134
Needle Sizes
(recommended)
From 80/12 to 130/21
Hook System Rotary, Horizontal Axis, M-class bobbin
Bobbin Type Aluminum, Class M
Bobbin Case Type MF
Motor Type Brushless DC
Needle Positioning Up and down, walking stitch, on-screen hand wheel
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Electrical Power 100-240 VAC, 50-60Hz, 1.5-3.3A
This machine conforms to UL and international safety standards
for sewing machines and US and international laws for
electromagnetic compliance.
Outlet Power 120 watts maximum
Sew Foot Stroke/Lift 5 mm
Needle Bar Stroke 35.3 mm
Take-Up Stroke 73 mm
Lubrication, main
components
Kluber Lube, permanent
Lubrication of hook Velocite 10, Texaco 22
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Get to Know Your Quilt Maker Pro 20 Versa ST
Side View
1. Handwheel
2. Thread Mast
3. Touchscreen Display
4. Front ON/OFF Switch
5. Front Base
6. Rear Base
Close-up View of Needle Area
7. Needle Stop/Sight Hole
8. Needle Bar Clamp Screw
9. Needle
10. Hopping Foot
11. Needle Plate
12
3
4
78
9
10
11
5
6
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Quilt Maker Pro 20 Versa ST User Manual | 13
12
15
13
18
19
20
21
17
22
23
Right Side
12. Magnetic Tool Minder Collar
13. Thread Guide
14. Thread Mast
15. Thread Spools
16. Thread Tray
Close-up of Tension Assembly
17. Thread Take-up Lever
18. Three-hole Thread Guide
19. Thread Guide
20.Top Tension Assembly with Take-up
Spring
21. Thread Stirrup
22. Thread Break Sensor
23. Lower Thread Guide
16
14
ON OPPOSITE SIDE
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Machine Connections
24. Machine rear display connection (not used)
25. Machine auxiliary power connection (not used)
26. Machine to handlebar connection (not used)
27. Machine to Pro-Stitcher communication (not used)
28. Main power connection
29. Main on/o power switch connection
27
24
25
26
28 29
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Quilt Maker Pro 20 Versa ST User Manual | 15
Installation and Setup
Installing the Power Cord
Check that the On/O switch is turned o (the 0
setting). Plug the power cord into the side power
outlet on the back of the machine. Do not plug the
power cord into a power source at this time.
The top power connector is available for powering
future attachments as they are developed.
(Not yet available.)
Installing the Foot Pedal
1. Plug in the foot pedal cord end into the foot pedal connector that is attached
to the table.
2. Place the foot pedal under the table where operator can reach it from the front
of the machine.
Installing the Thread Mast
1. Locate the two small M4x10mm hex button head screws and the thread mast assembly.
2. Align the screws in the thread mast
bracket with the two holes in the side
of the machine (top tension side). Use
a 2.5mm hex tool to tighten the bracket
firmly to the side of the machine.
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Machine Head USB Port (included)
To be used to power accessories, NOT for programming, which is done through the USB port
on the front display.
Installing the Color Touchscreen
The Quilt Maker Pro 20 Versa ST comes with a touchscreen front display.
To install the Front Display
1. For the front display, locate the four 4-40 screws and a small Phillips screwdriver
(not provided). You’ll also need the display with the hinges attached to the bottom
row of connectors on the back of the display.
2. Insert the 4-40 screws into the
openings on the display’s metal hinge.
Align the screws in the hinge with
the holes on the display bracket. Use
the small Phillips screwdriver to fully
tighten the screws.
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Quilt Maker Pro 20 Versa ST User Manual | 17
3. Plug the USB mini B cable (with 90°
connection), coming out of the top
front cover, into the back of the display.
This cable provides power and signal
connection from the machine to the
display.
NOTE: The USB connection on
the right of the display is used
for updating the display and the
machine software.
ÂIMPORTANT: Note the other
connections on the bottom of the
display for power and audio are
not functional. Also the SD card
slot on the left of the display is
not used at this time.
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Using Your Machine
Power Switch
There are two power switches for your machine. The main power switch is at the rear of the
machine and another power switch is at the front of the machine for added convenience.
The machine is turned on when both switches are turned on. The machine is turned o when
both switches are o. However, you may turn o the machine functions by turning o only
the front switch if you will be returning to quilting within a day.
Turn on the back switch first by toggling the switch from the "O" position to the | position.
Then turn on the front switch by pressing it. The front switch will not turn on the machine
unless the back switch is already on.
ÂIMPORTANT: If you will not be using the machine for more than a day, we recommend
you turn o both switches and unplug the power cord from the power source.
ÂIMPORTANT: Refer to the safety instructions.
Lighting
The QMP20 Versa ST includes several lights to make it easy for you to see your quilting area:
two lights under the throat of the machine that provide lighting to the quilting area and a light
ring that illuminates the needle and stitching area. There is also a bobbin area light. Optional
UV lights will be available as an accessory for purchase. UV lights are helpful when you need
to see white thread or white chalk on white fabric.
Turning the lights on and o is done through the touchscreen display. For more information
about turning on the machine lights, see To control the lights on the machine in the Toolbar
Options section of this manual.
Magnetic Tool Minder Collar
Use the left side of the collar to store steel tools, such as mini scissors, close at hand.
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Quilt Maker Pro 20 Versa ST User Manual | 19
Machine Needle
Use only the recommended needle system for your QMP20 Versa ST quilting machine. The
machine was timed to use this specific type of needle (System 134) and it is designed to work
with the high quilting speeds and multi-directional stitching the QMP20 Versa ST oers.
The QMP20 Versa ST uses the 134 needle system. Note that
the needle has a round shank rather than a shank with a flat
side like home sewing machines use.
If you use the recommended needle, you will experience
• Fewer skipped stitches
• Less needle breakage
• Less thread breakage, especially at high speeds
• Less thread splicing or shredding
• Optimum fabric protection
ÂIMPORTANT: Change the needle regularly. We recommend you use a new needle for
each new quilt and any time the needle becomes bent, dull, or burred.
UCAUTION: A damaged needle may result in poor stitching quality or may even damage
the machine or your quilt.
To change the needle
1. Move the needle bar to the up position by pressing the needle up/down control on
the touchscreen.
2. Turn o all power to the machine.
3. Loosen the needle bar clamp screw
with the 2.5mm hex wrench.
Needle bar
clamp
screw
Sight hole
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4. Remove the old needle by pulling it down. Discard the old needle in a safe way.
5. With the scarf of the needle
(indentation at the back of the
needle just above the needle eye)
facing the rear of the machine and
the long groove down the front of
the needle facing the front of the
machine, push the needle all the
way up into the needle bar until it
stops. Check the sight hole in the
needle clamp to verify that the top
of the needle can go no farther up.
UCAUTION: Check the needle to confirm it is fully inserted. The needle bar has a sight
opening above the needle bar clamp screw. Make sure the needle is touching the top
of the sight opening. If it isn’t, the machine timing will be o and it may be possible for
the needle to collide with internal parts, causing damage not covered by warranty.
6. Carefully tighten the needle bar clamp screw.
UCAUTION: Although you can use your fingers to tighten the needle bar clamp screw, we
recommend that after finger-tightening the screw, you use the 2.5mm hex wrench to
tighten it just a bit more. The QMP20 Versa ST runs at very high speeds and this ensures
the needle will not loosen while quilting. However, do not over tighten the needle clamp
screw, as this may strip the threads of the screw. Stripped threads are not covered
under the warranty. It may also become dicult to insert the needle properly into the
needle bar. Once the screw no longer turns freely by hand, gently turn the screwdriver
until the screw is tightened snuggly.
Needle Size Thread Size
12 and 14 monofilament, 100 wt. silk, 60 wt. polyester, mylar
16 monofilament, mylar, 100 wt., 80 wt., 60 wt., 50 wt., 40 wt. silk,
polyester and cotton thread
18 40 wt. cotton and polyester, 30 wt. cotton and polyester
19 and 21 Any thread 30 wt. and heavier such as 12 wt., 19 wt., 30 wt.
QUILTING TIP: A size 16/100 needle will accommodate most threads and fabrics. Heavier
threads, such as top stitch and some decorative threads, require a larger needle such as
18/110 or 21/130. Lofty batts and heavier fabrics such as denim, canvas, or densely woven
fabric may also require a larger needle.
Scarf at back of needle just above eye
Long groove at front of needle - shoulder to eye
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