Baby Lock BLMAV Reference Guide

INTRODUCTION

Thank you for purchasing this machine. Before using this machine, carefully read the “IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS”, and then study this manual for the correct operation of the various functions. In addition, after you have finished reading this manual, store it where it can quickly be accessed for future reference.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

Please read these safety instructions before attempting to use the machine.

DANGER - To reduce the risk of electrical shock

1Always unplug the machine from the electrical outlet immediately after using, when cleaning, making any user

servicing adjustments mentioned in this manual, or if you are leaving the machine unattended.

WARNING - To reduce the risk of burns, fire, electrical shock, or injury to

persons.

2Always unplug the machine from the electrical outlet when making any adjustments mentioned in the instruction

manual.

• To unplug the machine, switch the machine to the symbol “O” position to turn it off, then grasp the plug and pull it out of the electrical outlet. Do not pull on the cord.

• Plug the machine directly into the electrical outlet. Do not use an extension cord.

• Always unplug your machine if there is a power failure.

3Electrical Hazards:

• This machine should be connected to an AC power source within the range indicated on the rating label. Do not connect it to a DC power source or converter. If you are not sure what kind of power source you have, contact a qualified electrician.

• This machine is approved for use in the country of purchase only.

4Never operate this machine if it has a damaged cord or plug, if it is not working properly, has been dropped or

damaged, or water is spilled on the unit. Return the machine to the nearest authorized Baby Lock retailer for examination, repair, electrical or mechanical adjustment.

• While the machine is stored or in use if you notice anything unusual, such as an odor, heat, discoloration or deformation, stop using the machine immediately and unplug the power cord.

• When transporting the machine, be sure to carry it by its handle. Lifting the machine by any other part may damage the machine or result in the machine falling, which could cause injuries.

• When lifting the machine, be careful not to make any sudden or careless movements, which may cause a personal injury.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

5Always keep your work area clear:

• Never operate the machine with any air openings blocked. Keep ventilation openings of the machine and foot control free from the build up of lint, dust, and loose cloth.

• Do not store objects on the foot controller.

• Do not use extension cords. Plug the machine directly into the electrical outlet.

• Never drop or insert foreign objects in any opening.

• Do not operate where aerosol (spray) products are being used or where oxygen is being administered.

• Do not use the machine near a heat source, such as a stove or iron; otherwise, the machine, power cord or garment being sewn may ignite, resulting in fire or an electric shock.

• Do not place this machine on an unstable surface, such as an unsteady or slanted table, otherwise the machine may fall, resulting in injuries.

6Special care is required when sewing:

• Always pay close attention to the needle. Do not use bent or damaged needles.

• Keep fingers away from all moving parts. Special care is required around the machine needle.

• Switch the machine to the symbol “O” position to turn it off when making any adjustments in the needle area.

• Do not use a damaged or incorrect needle plate, as it could cause the needle to break.

• Do not push or pull the fabric when sewing, and follow careful instruction when free motion stitching so that you do not deflect the needle and cause it to break.

7This machine is not a toy:

• Your close attention is necessary when the machine is used by or near children.

• The plastic bag that this machine was supplied in should be kept out of the reach of children or disposed of. Never allow children to play with the bag due to the danger of suffocation.

• Do not use outdoors.

8For a longer service life:

• When storing this machine, avoid direct sunlight and high humidity locations. Do not use or store the machine near a space heater, iron, halogen lamp, or other hot objects.

• Use only neutral soaps or detergents to clean the case. Benzene, thinner, and scouring powders can damage the case and machine, and should never be used.

• Always consult the Instruction and Reference Guide when replacing or installing any assemblies, the presser feet, needle or other parts to assure correct installation.

9For repair or adjustment:

• If the light unit is damaged, it must be replaced by an authorized Baby Lock retailer.

• In the event a malfunction occurs or adjustment is required, first follow the troubleshooting table in the back of the Instruction and Reference Guide to inspect and adjust the machine yourself. If the problem persists, please consult your local authorized Baby Lock retailer.

Use this machine only for its intended use as described in the manual.

Use accessories recommended by the manufacturer as contained in this manual.

The contents of this manual and specifications of this product are subject to change without notice.

For additional product information and updates, visit our website at www.babylock.com

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS

This machine is intended for household use.

FOR USERS IN COUNTRIES EXCEPT EUROPEAN COUNTRIES

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.

FOR USERS IN EUROPEAN COUNTRIES

This appliance can be used by children aged from 8 years and above and persons with reduced physical, sensory or mental capabilities or lack of experience and knowledge if they have been given supervision or instruction concerning use of the appliance in a safe way and understand the hazards involved. Children shall not play with the appliance. Cleaning and user maintenance shall not be made by children without supervision.

FOR USERS IN THE UK, EIRE, MALTA

AND CYPRUS ONLY

IMPORTANT

• In the event of replacing the plug fuse, use a fuse approved by ASTA to BS 1362, i.e. carrying the mark,

rating as marked on plug.

• Always replace the fuse cover. Never use plugs with the fuse cover omitted.

• If the available electrical outlet is not suitable for the plug supplied with this equipment, you should contact your

authorized Baby Lock retailer to obtain the correct lead.

iii

TRADEMARKS

IMPORTANT:

READ BEFORE DOWNLOADING, COPYING, INSTALLING OR USING. By downloading, copying, installing or using the software you agree to this license. If you do not agree to this license, do not download, install, copy or use the software.

Intel License Agreement For Open Source Computer Vision Library

Redistribution and use in source and binary forms, with or without modification, are permitted provided that the following conditions are met:

• Redistribution’s of source code must retain the above copyright notice, this list of conditions and the following disclaimer.

• Redistribution’s in binary form must reproduce the above copyright notice, this list of conditions and the following disclaimer in the documentation and/or other materials provided with the distribution.

• The name of Intel Corporation may not be used to endorse or promote products derived from this software without specific prior written permission.

This software is provided by the copyright holders and contributors “as is” and any express or implied warranties, including, but not limited to, the implied warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose are disclaimed. In no event shall Intel or contributors be liable for any direct, indirect, incidental, special, exemplary, or consequential damages (including, but not limited to, procurement of substitute goods or services; loss of use, data, or profits; or business interruption) however caused and on any theory of liability, whether in contract, strict liability, or tort (including negligence or otherwise) arising in any way out of the use of this software, even if advised of the possibility of such damage.

All information provided related to future Intel products and plans is preliminary and subject to change at any time, without notice.

WHAT YOU CAN DO WITH THIS MACHINE

B Basic operations

After purchasing your machine, be sure to read this section first. This section provides details on the initial setup procedures as well as descriptions of this machine’s more useful functions.

Chapter 1 GETTING READY

To learn the operation of the principal parts and the screens

Chapter 2 STARTING TO SEW

To learn how to prepare for sewing and basic sewing operations

Chapter 3 STARTING TO EMBROIDER

To learn how to prepare for embroidering and basic embroidering operations

Page B-2

Page B-35

Page B-52

S Sewing

This section describes procedures for using the various utility stitches as well as other functions. It provides details on basic machine sewing in addition to the more expressive features of the machine, such as sewing tubular pieces and buttonholes.

Chapter 1 SEWING ATTRACTIVE FINISHES

Tips for sewing attractive finishes and various fabrics

Chapter 2 UTILITY STITCHES

Sew pre-programmed frequently used stitches

Page S-2

Page S-6

D Decorative sewing

This section provides instructions on sewing character stitches and decorative stitches as well as on adjusting and editing them.

Chapter 1 CHARACTER / DECORATIVE STITCHES

The variety of stitches widen your creativity

Page D-2

E Embroidering

This section provides instruction on editing embroidery patterns and recalling stored embroidery patterns.

Chapter 1 EMBROIDERY

Embroider artistically; by editing the built-in patterns you can easily create your own original designs.

Page E-2

A Appendix

This section provides important information for operating this machine.

Chapter 1 MAINTENANCE AND TROUBLESHOOTING

The various maintenance and troubleshooting procedures are described.

Page A-2

CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION .................................................. i

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS ................. i

TRADEMARKS ..................................................... iv

WHAT YOU CAN DO WITH THIS MACHINE ..... v

B Basic operations

Chapter 1 GETTING READY 2

Names of Machine Parts and Their Functions....... 2

Machine................................................................................. 2

Needle and presser foot section................................................... 3

Embroidery Unit..................................................................... 4

Operation buttons .................................................................. 4

Operation panel and operation keys....................................... 5

Using the flat bed attachment................................................. 5

Included accessories .............................................................. 6

Optional accessories .............................................................. 7

Using the utility stitch tables in the “Sewing” section ............. 8

Turning the Machine On/Off................................ 9

Turning on the machine ....................................................... 10

Turning off the machine ....................................................... 10

Select machine setting for the first time ................................ 10

LCD Operation ................................................... 11

Viewing the LCD.................................................................. 11

Using the settings key........................................................... 13

Adjusting input sensitivity for operation keys........................ 16

Saving a settings screen image to USB flash drive ................. 17

Checking machine operating procedures.............................. 17

Winding/Installing the Bobbin............................ 18

Winding the bobbin ............................................................. 18

Installing the bobbin............................................................. 21

Upper Threading ................................................ 24

Threading the upper thread .................................................. 24

Threading the needle............................................................ 26

Threading the needle manually (without using the needle

threader)............................................................................... 27

Pulling up the bobbin thread ................................................ 27

Using the twin needle .......................................................... 28

Replacing the Needle.......................................... 30

Fabric/thread/needle combinations....................................... 30

Checking the needle............................................................. 31

Replacing the needle............................................................ 31

Replacing the Presser Foot.................................. 33

Replacing the presser foot .................................................... 33

Removing and attaching the presser foot holder ................... 34

Chapter 2 STARTING TO SEW 35

Sewing ................................................................ 35

Stitch types........................................................................... 35

Sewing a stitch ..................................................................... 35

Sewing reinforcement stitches .............................................. 38

Automatic reinforcement stitching........................................ 38

Setting the Stitch ................................................ 40

Setting the stitch width ......................................................... 40

Setting the stitch length ........................................................ 40

Setting the “L/R Shift” ........................................................... 41

Setting the thread tension ..................................................... 41

Saving stitch settings............................................................. 42

Useful Functions................................................. 43

Automatically cutting the thread........................................... 43

Mirroring stitches ................................................................. 43

Adjusting the presser foot pressure ....................................... 43

Automatic Fabric Sensor System (Automatic presser foot

pressure)............................................................................... 44

Pivoting ............................................................................... 44

Sewing with free motion mode ............................................ 45

Hands-free raising and lifting of the presser foot .................. 46

Stitch Setting Chart ............................................ 47

Chapter 3 STARTING TO EMBROIDER 52

Embroidery Step by Step .................................... 52

Attaching the Embroidery Foot .............................. 53

Attaching the Embroidery Unit .......................... 54

Embroidery Attractive Finishes .......................... 56

Preparing the Fabric........................................... 57

Attaching iron-on stabilizers (backing) to the fabric ............. 57

Hooping the fabric in the embroidery frame ........................ 58

Embroidering small fabrics or fabric edges........................... 60

Attaching the Embroidery Frame ....................... 61

Selecting Embroidery Patterns ........................... 62

Embroidery pattern types ..................................................... 62

Selecting an embroidery pattern .......................................... 62

Confirming the Pattern Position......................... 63

Checking the pattern position .............................................. 63

Previewing the selected pattern ........................................... 63

Embroidering ..................................................... 64

Embroidering a pattern ........................................................ 64

Changing the thread color display ....................................... 65

S Sewing

Chapter 1 SEWING ATTRACTIVE

FINISHES 2

Sewing Tips .......................................................... 2

Trial sewing........................................................................... 2

Changing the sewing direction

Sewing curves........................................................................ 2

Sewing cylindrical pieces ...................................................... 2

Sewing an even seam allowance ........................................... 3

Sewing Various Fabrics ........................................ 4

Sewing thick fabrics............................................................... 4

Sewing thin fabrics ................................................................ 4

Sewing stretch fabrics............................................................ 5

Sewing leathers or vinyl fabrics.............................................. 5

Sewing hook-and-loop fastener tape ...................................... 5

Chapter 2 UTILITY STITCHES 6

Basic Stitching...................................................... 6

Basting................................................................................... 6

Basic stitching........................................................................ 6

Blind Hem Stitching ............................................. 8

Overcasting Stitches .......................................... 11

Sewing overcasting stitches using overcasting foot “G” ........ 11

Sewing overcasting stitches using zigzag foot “J” ................. 12

Sewing overcasting stitches using the side cutter

(sold separately with some models)...................................... 12

Buttonhole Stitching/Button Sewing .................. 14

Buttonhole sewing ............................................................... 14

Button sewing...................................................................... 17

Zipper Insertion ................................................. 19

Inserting a centered zipper................................................... 19

Inserting a side zipper.......................................................... 20

Zipper/piping Insertion ...................................... 23

Inserting a centered zipper................................................... 23

Inserting a piping................................................................. 24

................................................. 2

CONTENTS

Sewing Stretch Fabrics and Elastic Tape ............. 25

Stretch stitching ................................................................... 25

Elastic attaching ................................................................... 25

Appliqué, Patchwork and Quilt Stitching ........... 26

Appliqué stitching ................................................................ 26

Patchwork (crazy quilt) stitching .......................................... 27

Piecing................................................................................. 27

Quilting ............................................................................... 29

Free motion quilting............................................................. 30

Satin stitching using the sewing speed controller.................. 34

Reinforcement Stitching ..................................... 35

Triple stretch stitching.......................................................... 35

Bar tack stitching ................................................................. 35

Darning ............................................................................... 36

Eyelet Stitching................................................... 38

Attaching Patches or Emblems to Shirt Sleeves .. 39

Decorative Stitching ........................................... 41

Fagoting............................................................................... 41

Scallop stitching................................................................... 42

Smocking............................................................................. 42

Shell tuck stitching............................................................... 43

Joining ................................................................................. 43

Heirloom stitching ............................................................... 44

D Decorative sewing

Chapter 1 CHARACTER / DECORATIVE

STITCHES 2

Selecting Stitch Patterns ....................................... 2

Selecting decorative stitch patterns/satin stitch patterns/ 7 mm satin stitch patterns/cross stitch/utility decorative stitch

patterns.................................................................................. 2

Characters.............................................................................. 2

Sewing Stitch Patterns .......................................... 4

Sewing attractive finishes ....................................................... 4

Basic sewing.......................................................................... 4

Making adjustments............................................................... 5

Editing Stitch Patterns .......................................... 7

Changing the size .................................................................. 9

Changing the length (for 7 mm satin stitch patterns only) ....... 9

Creating a horizontal mirror image ........................................ 9

Sewing a pattern continuously ............................................... 9

Changing thread density (for satin stitch patterns only)......... 10

Returning to the beginning of the pattern ............................. 10

Checking the image ............................................................. 11

Combining Stitch Patterns .................................. 12

Before combining ................................................................ 12

Combining various stitch patterns ........................................ 12

Combining large and small stitch patterns ............................ 12

Combining horizontal mirror image stitch patterns............... 13

Combining stitch patterns of different length........................ 13

Making step stitch patterns................................................... 14

Using The Memory Function .............................. 15

Stitch data precautions......................................................... 15

Saving stitch patterns in the machine’s memory ................... 15

Saving stitch patterns to USB flash drive ............................... 16

Retrieving stitch patterns from the machine’s memory.......... 17

Recalling from USB flash drive............................................. 17

E Embroidering

Chapter 1 EMBROIDERY 2

Selecting Patterns................................................. 2

Selecting embroidery patterns/Baby Lock “Exclusives”/floral

alphabet patterns.................................................................... 2

Selecting character patterns.................................................... 2

Selecting frame patterns ......................................................... 4

Editing Patterns .................................................... 5

Moving the pattern ................................................................. 6

Changing the size of the pattern ............................................. 6

Rotating the pattern ................................................................ 6

Changing the thread color...................................................... 7

Creating a horizontal mirror image......................................... 7

Changing the density (alphabet character and frame

patterns only) ......................................................................... 7

Deleting the pattern................................................................ 7

Displaying patterns in the screen magnification...................... 8

After editing ........................................................................... 8

Editing Character Patterns ................................... 9

Changing the colors of alphabet character patterns ................ 9

Switching between text written vertically and horizontally..... 9

Changing the font of entered characters ............................... 10

Changing character spacing ................................................. 10

Reducing character spacing.................................................. 10

Separating combined character patterns............................... 10

Editing single characters ....................................................... 11

Changing the configuration of character patterns.................. 12

Combining Patterns............................................ 13

Editing combined patterns .................................................... 13

Embroidering combined patterns.......................................... 14

Editing All Patterns............................................. 15

Moving the pattern ............................................................... 15

Rotating the pattern .............................................................. 15

Aligning the pattern and the needle...................................... 15

Embroidering linked characters ............................................ 16

Embroidery Applications.................................... 18

Sewing embroidery patterns which use appliqué .................. 18

Using a frame pattern to make an appliqué (1) ..................... 20

Using a frame pattern to make an appliqué (2) ..................... 21

Sewing split embroidery patterns.......................................... 22

Adjustments During the Embroidery Process ..... 23

If the bobbin runs out of thread ............................................ 23

If the thread breaks during sewing ........................................ 24

Restarting from the beginning............................................... 24

Resuming embroidery after turning off the power................. 24

Making Embroidery Adjustments ....................... 26

Adjusting thread tension....................................................... 26

Adjusting the bobbin case (with no color on the screw)........ 27

Using the automatic thread cutting function

(END COLOR TRIM) ............................................................ 28

Adjusting the embroidery speed ........................................... 28

Changing the “Embroidery Frame Display” .......................... 28

Selecting/displaying patterns according to the embroidery

frame size............................................................................. 29

Changing the background colors of the embroidery

patterns ................................................................................ 30

Specifying the size of pattern thumbnails.............................. 30

Using the Memory Function............................... 31

Embroidery data precautions ................................................ 31

Saving embroidery patterns in the machine’s memory .......... 32

Saving embroidery patterns to USB flash drive ..................... 33

Retrieving patterns from the machine’s memory................... 33

Recalling from USB flash drive............................................. 34

vii

CONTENTS

A Appendix

Chapter 1 MAINTENANCE AND

TROUBLESHOOTING 2

Care and Maintenance.......................................... 2

Restrictions on oiling.............................................................. 2

Precautions on storing the machine........................................ 2

Cleaning the LCD Screen ....................................................... 2

Cleaning the machine surface ................................................ 2

Cleaning the race ................................................................... 2

About the maintenance message ............................................ 3

Touch panel is malfunctioning ............................................... 4

Operation beep...................................................................... 4

Troubleshooting.................................................... 5

Frequent troubleshooting topics ............................................. 5

Upper thread tightened up ..................................................... 5

Tangled thread on wrong side of fabric .................................. 6

Incorrect thread tension.......................................................... 7

Fabric is caught in the machine and cannot be removed ........ 8

When the thread became tangled under the bobbin winder

seat ...................................................................................... 11

List of symptoms................................................................... 13

Error messages...................................................................... 19

Specifications ..................................................... 21

Upgrading your machine’s software using

USB flash drive ................................................... 22

Index .................................................................. 23

viii

Basic

operations

This section provides details on the initial setup procedures as well as descriptions of this machine’s more useful functions.

Page number starts with “B” in this section.

Chapter1 GETTING READY....................................................... B-2

Chapter2 STARTING TO SEW................................................. B-35

Chapter3 STARTING TO EMBROIDER................................. B-52

Names of Machine Parts and Their Functions

Chapter 1

GETTING READY

Names of Machine Parts and Their Functions

The names of the various parts of the machine and their functions are described below. Before using the machine, carefully read these descriptions to learn the names of the machine and their locations.

Machine

■ Front view

B Flat bed attachment

Insert the presser foot accessory tray into the accessory compartment of the flat bed attachment. Remove the flat bed attachment when sewing cylindrical pieces such as sleeve cuffs.

C Thread cutter

Pass the threads through the thread cutter to cut them.

D Needle threader lever

Use the needle threader lever to thread the needle.

■ Right-side/rear view

1 Top cover

Open the top cover to place the spool of thread on the spool pin.

2 Thread guide plate

Pass the thread around the thread guide plate when threading the upper thread.

3 Bobbin winding thread guide and pretension disk

Pass the thread under this thread guide and around the pretension disk when winding the bobbin thread.

4 Spool cap

Use the spool cap to hold the spool of thread in place.

5 Spool pin

Place a spool of thread on the spool pin.

6 Bobbin winder

Use the bobbin winder when winding the bobbin.

7 LCD (liquid crystal display)

Settings for the selected stitch and error messages appear in the LCD. (page B-11)

8 Operation panel

From the operation panel, stitch settings can be selected and edited, and operations for using the machine can be selected (page B-5).

9 Knee lifter mounting slot

Insert the knee lifter into the knee lifter mounting slot.

0 Knee lifter

Use the knee lifter to raise and lower the presser foot. (page B-

46)

A Operation buttons and sewing speed controller

Use these buttons and the slide to operate the machine. (page B-4)

B-2

1 Handwheel

Turn the handwheel toward you (counterclockwise) to raise and lower the needle to sew one stitch.

2 Handle

Carry the machine by its handle when transporting.

3 Presser foot lever

Raise and lower the presser foot lever to raise and lower the presser foot.

4 Feed dog position switch

Use the feed dog position switch to lower the feed dogs.

5 Main power switch

Use the main power switch to turn the machine on and off.

6 Power supply jack

Insert the plug on the power cord into the power supply jack.

7 Foot controller

Depress the foot controller to control the speed of the machine. (page B-37)

8 Air vent

The air vent allows the air surrounding the motor to circulate. Do not cover the air vent while the machine is being used.

Names of Machine Parts and Their Functions

9 Foot controller jack

Insert the plug on the end of the foot controller cable into the foot controller jack.

0 USB port (for a USB flash drive)

In order to import patterns from a USB flash drive, insert the USB flash drive directly into the USB port.

Needle and presser foot section

1 Needle bar thread guide

Pass the upper thread through the needle bar thread guide.

2 Needle plate

The needle plate is marked with guides for sewing straight seams.

3 Needle plate cover

Remove the needle plate cover to clean the bobbin case and race.

4 Bobbin cover/bobbin case

Remove the bobbin cover and then insert the bobbin into the bobbin case.

5 Feed dogs

The feed dogs feed the fabric in the sewing direction.

6 Presser foot

The presser foot applies pressure consistently on the fabric as the sewing takes place. Attach the appropriate presser foot for the selected stitch.

7 Presser foot holder

The presser foot is attached onto the presser foot holder.

8 Presser foot holder screw

Use the presser foot holder screw to hold the presser foot in place. (page B-34, B-53)

9 Buttonhole lever

Lower the buttonhole lever when sewing buttonholes and bar tacks or when darning.

Measurements on the needle plate, bobbin cover (with markings) and needle plate cover

The measurements on the bobbin cover are references for patterns with a middle (center) needle position. The measurements on the needle plate and the needle plate cover are references for stitches with a left needle position.

1 For stitches with a middle (center) needle position 2 For stitches with a left needle position 3 Middle (center) needle position <inch> 4 Middle (center) needle position <cm> 5 Middle (center) needle position on the bobbin cover

(with markings) <inch>

6 Left needle position on the needle plate cover <inch>

GETTING READY

Basic operations B-3

Names of Machine Parts and Their Functions

CAUTION

Embroidery Unit

1 Embroidery frame holder

Insert the embroidery frame into the embroidery frame holder to hold the frame in place. (page B-61)

2 Frame-securing lever

Press the frame-securing lever down to secure the embroidery frame. (page B-61)

3 Embroidery unit connection

Insert the embroidery unit connection into the connection port when attaching the embroidery unit. (page B-54)

4 Carriage

The carriage moves the embroidery frame automatically when embroidering. (page B-54)

5 Release button (located under the embroidery unit)

Press the release button to remove the embroidery unit. (page B-55)

• Before inserting or removing the embroidery

unit, turn the main power to OFF.

• After the embroidery frame is set in the frame

holder, be sure the frame-securing lever is correctly lowered.

Operation buttons

bc d e f

1 “Start/Stop” button

Press the “Start/Stop” button to start or stop sewing. The machine stitches at a slow speed at the beginning of sewing while the button is pressed. When sewing is stopped, the needle is lowered in the fabric. For details, refer to “STARTING TO SEW” on page B-35. The button changes color according to the machine’s operation mode.

Green: The machine is ready to sew or is sewing.

Red: The machine can not sew.

Orange: The machine is winding the bobbin thread, or

2 Reverse stitch button

For straight, zigzag, and elastic zigzag stitch patterns that use reverse stitches, the machine will sew reverse stitches at low speed only while holding down the Reverse stitch button. The stitches are sewn in the opposite position. For other stitches, use this button to sew reinforcement stitches at the beginning and end of sewing. Press and hold this button, and the machine sews 3 stitches in the same spot and stops automatically. (page B-39)

3 Reinforcement stitch button

Use this button to sew a single stitch repeatedly and tie-off. For character/decorative stitches, press this button to end with a full stitch instead of at a mid-point. The LED light beside this button lights up while the machine is sewing a full motif, and automatically turns off when the sewing is stopped. (page B-

38)

4 Needle position button

Press the needle position button to raise or lower the needle. Pressing the button twice sews one stitch.

5 Thread cutter button

Press the thread cutter button after sewing is stopped to cut

both the upper and the bobbin threads. For details, refer to

step

l under the “Sewing a stitch” section on page B-36.

6 Presser foot lifter button

Press this button to lower the presser foot and apply pressure to the fabric. Press this button again to raise the presser foot.

7 Sewing speed controller

Slide the sewing speed controller to adjust the sewing speed.

the bobbin winder shaft is moved to the right side.

B-4

• Do not press (Thread cutter button) after the threads have already been cut, otherwise the needle may break, the threads may become tangled or damage to the machine may occur.

Names of Machine Parts and Their Functions

Note

Operation panel and operation keys

1 LCD (liquid crystal display) (touch panel)

Selected pattern settings and messages are displayed. Touch the keys displayed on the LCD to perform operations. For details, refer to “LCD Operation” on page B-11.

2 Previous page key

Displays the previous screen when there are items that are not displayed on the LCD.

3 Next page key

Displays the next screen when there are items that are not displayed on the LCD.

4 Help key

Press to get help on using the machine.

5 Settings key

Press to set the needle stop position, the buzzer sound, and more.

6 Embroidery key

Press this key to sew embroidery.

7 Utility stitch key

Press this key to select a utility stitch or decorative stitch.

8 Back key

Press to return to the previous screen.

9 Presser foot/Needle exchange key

Press this key before changing the needle, the presser foot, etc. This key locks all key and button functions to prevent operation of the machine.

b c

Using the flat bed attachment

Pull the top of the flat bed attachment to open the accessory compartments.

GETTING READY

A presser foot accessory tray is stored in the accessory compartment of the flat bed attachment.

1 Storage space of the flat bed attachment 2 Presser foot accessory tray 3 Embroidery foot “U”

• The operation keys of this machine are capacitive touch sensors. Operate the keys by directly touching them with your finger. The response of the keys varies according to the user. The pressure exerted on the keys does not affect the response of the keys.

• Since the operation keys react differently depending on the user, adjust the setting for “Adjusting input sensitivity for operation keys” on page B-16.

• When using an electrostatic touch pen, make sure that its point is 8 mm or more. Do not use a touch pen with a thin point or a unique shape.

Basic operations B-5

Names of Machine Parts and Their Functions

Included accessories

After opening the carton, check that the following accessories are included. Part code for each item is listed under the part name.

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.

Zigzag foot “J” (on machine) XF9671-001

7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12.

Monogramming foot “N” XD0810-031

Overcasting foot “G” XC3098-031

Zipper foot “I” X59370-021

Blind stitch foot “R” XE2650-001

Button fitting foot “M” XE2643-001

Buttonhole foot “A” XC2691-023

13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18.

Adjustable zipper/piping foot FA9

19. 20. 21. 22. 23. 24.

Cleaning brush X59476-051

25. 26. 27. 28. 29. 30.

Embroidery foot “U” XD0313-051

Needle set X58358-021

Eyelet punch XZ5051-001

Open toe foot FA7

Twin needle

2.0/11 needle X59296-121

Screwdriver (large) XC4237-021

Free motion open toe quilting foot “O” BLSR-FMO

Bobbin (4) (One is one machine.) X52800-120

Screwdriver (small) X55468-051

Non stick foot FA8

Seam rippe r XF4967-001

L-shaped screwdriver XG0918-001

Stitch guide foot “P” FA6

Scissors XC1807-121

Disc-shaped screwdriver XC1074-051

Horizontal spool pin XC4654-151

Spool cap (large) 130012-024

Spool cap (medium) (2) (One is on machine) XE1372-001

Spool cap (small) 130013-124

Thread spool insert (mini king thread spool) XA5752-121

31. 32. 33.* 34. 35.*

Knee lifter XA6941-052

Standard bobb in case (gree n marking on the screw) (on machine) XG2058-001

Alternate bobbin case (no color on the screw) XG2062-001

Foot controller XZ5100-001

Embroider y frame set ( extra large) 26 cm (H) × 16 cm (W) (10-1/4 inches (H) × 6-1/4 inches (W)) EF81/EF86

36.* 37.* 38. 39. 40.

Embroidery frame set (large) 18 cm (H) × 13 cm (W) (7 inches (H) × 5 inches (W)) EF75/EF79

Embroidery bobbin thread (60 weight, white) BBT-W

Accessory bag XC4487-021

Hard case XF8687-001

41. 42. 43. 44. 45. 46.

Bobbin cover (with markings) (on machine) XF0750-101

These accessories are included in the same box as the embroidery unit.

Bobbin cover XE8992-101

Power c ord XC6052-021

Instruction and Reference Guide XF9681-001

Quick Reference Guide XF9682-001

Spool net XA5523-020

Bobbin center pin and instruction sheet XF5048-001

Embroidery Design Guide XG0538-001

B-6

Names of Machine Parts and Their Functions

Note

Memo

• (For U.S.A. only) Foot controller: Model T This foot controller can be used on the machine model:BLMAV.

• The presser foot holder screw is available through your authorized Baby Lock retailer. (Part code: XG1343-001)

• The presser foot accessory tray is available, through your authorized Baby Lock retailer. (Part code: XF8650-001)

Optional accessories

The following are available as optional accessories to be purchased separately. Part code for each item is listed under the part name.

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.

GETTING READY

Free motion echo quilting foot “E” BLSR-FME

Free motion quilting foot “C” BLSO-FMC

Quilting foot FA2

Walking foot BLG-WF

1/4" quilting foot FA1

1/4" quilting foot with guide ESG-QFG

7. 8. 9. 10.

Quilting guide BLG-QG

Side cutter “S” BLG-SCF

Embroidery frame set (medium) 10 cm (H) × 10 cm (W) (4 inches (H) × 4 inches (W)) EF74/EF78

Embroidery frame set (small) 2 cm (H) × 6 cm (W) (1 inch (H) × 2-1/2 inches (W)) EF73/EF77

11. 12. 13. 14.

Border embroidery frame set 18 cm (H) × 10 cm (W) (7 inches (H) × 4 inches (W)) BLSO-BF

Quilt embroidery frame set 15 cm (H) × 15 cm (W) (6 inches (H) x 6 inches (W)) BLMA-150

Embroidery b obbin thread (60 weight) BBT-W (white) BBT-B (black)

Straight stitch foot and needle plate set BLMAC-SS

15. 16. 17. 18. 19.

Extension table BLMAC-ET

• To obtain optional accessories or parts, contact your authorized Baby Lock retailer.

• All specifications are correct at the time of printing. Please be aware that some specifications may change without

• Visit your nearest authorized Baby Lock retailer for a complete listing of optional accessories available for your

• Always use accessories recommended for this machine.

notice.

machine.

Spool stand BLMAC-STS

Narrow hemmer foot ESG-HF

Cording foot (3 cord guide) BLG-CF3

Edge joining foot ESG-EJF

Basic operations B-7

Names of Machine Parts and Their Functions

Using the utility stitch tables in the “Sewing” section

The utility stitch numbers differ depending on the model of your machine. Refer to the column titled “BLMAV” for your machine.

Stitch name Stitch

Basting stitch 1-08 08 07

Straight stitch (Left)

Straight stitch (Middle) 1-03

Triple stretch stitch 1-05

BLMAV

Stitch number

1-01

1-02

BLMAV: Aventura

BLMSP: Soprano

BLMLR: Lyric

BL210A: Katherine

BLMSP/BLMLR

* 01*

* 02*

* 03*

* 05*

BL210A

Presser foot

B-8

Turning the Machine On/Off

WARNING

CAUTION

Turning the Machine On/Off

• Use only regular household electricity for the power source. Using other power sources may result in fire, electric shock, or damage to the machine.

• Make sure that the plugs on the power cord are firmly inserted into the electrical outlet and the power cord receptacle on the machine. Otherwise, a fire or electric shock may result.

• Do not insert the plug on the power cord into an electrical outlet that is in poor condition.

• Turn the main power to OFF and remove the plug in the following circumstances: When you are away from the machine After using the machine When the power fails during use When the machine does not operate correctly due to a bad connection or a disconnection During electrical storms

• Use only the power cord included with this machine.

• Do not use extension cords or multi-plug adapters with any other appliances plugged into them. Fire or electric shock may result.

• Do not touch the plug with wet hands. Electric shock may result.

• When unplugging the machine, always turn the main power to OFF first. Always grasp the plug to remove it from the electrical outlet. Pulling on the cord may damage the cord, or lead to fire or electric shock.

• Do not allow the power cord to be cut, damaged, modified, forcefully bent, pulled, twisted, or bundled. Do not place heavy objects on the cord. Do not subject the cord to heat. These things may damage the cord, or cause fire or electric shock. If the cord or plug is damaged, take the machine to your authorized Baby Lock retailer for repairs before continuing use.

• Unplug the power cord if the machine is not to be used for a long period of time. Otherwise, a fire may result.

• When leaving the machine unattended, either the main switch of the machine should be turned to OFF or the plug must be removed from the electrical outlet.

• When servicing the machine or when removing covers, the machine must be unplugged.

• For USA only This appliance has a polarized plug (one blade wider than the other). To reduce the risk of electrical shock, this plug is intended to fit in a polarized electrical outlet only one way. If the plug does not fit fully in the electrical outlet, reverse the plug. If it still does not fit, contact a qualified electrician to install the proper electrical outlet. Do not modify the plug in any way.

GETTING READY

Basic operations B-9

Turning the Machine On/Off

Memo

Turning on the machine

Make sure that the machine is turned off (the main

power switch is set to “ ”), and then plug the power cord into the power supply jack on the right side of the machine.

Insert the plug of the power cord into a household

electrical outlet.

1 Power supply jack 2 Main power switch

Press the right side of the main power switch on the

right side of the machine to turn the machine on (set it to “I”).

Turning off the machine

When you are finished using the machine, turn it off. In addition, before transporting the machine to another location, be sure to turn it off.

Make sure that the machine is not sewing.

Press the main power switch on the right side of the

machine in the direction of the “ ” symbol to turn the machine off.

Select machine setting for the first time

When you first turn on the machine, select the language of your choice. Follow the procedure below when the settings screen appears automatically.

Press and to select your choice of language.

→ The light, LCD and the “Start/Stop” button light up

when the machine is turned on.

• When the machine is turned on, the needle and

the feed dogs will make a sound when they move; this is not a malfunction.

• If the machine is turned off in the middle of sewing

in the “Sewing” function, the operation will not be resume after turning the power on again.

When the machine is turned on, the opening movie is

played. Press anywhere on the screen.

Press .

B-10

LCD Operation

Viewing the LCD

An opening movie may be displayed when the power is turned on. When the opening movie is displayed, the screen will be displayed if you touch the LCD with your finger. Press a key with your finger to select the stitch pattern, to select a machine function, or to select an operation indicated on the key.

The screen below appears when you press on the operation panel.

This section contains a description of the utility stitch screen, which appears when any of the keys indicated by 1 is pressed.

Pressing any of the keys indicated by 2 displays the character/decorative stitch screen. For details, refer to the “Decorative sewing” section.

GETTING READY

Basic operations B-11

LCD Operation

9876

F E D C

0 G

9876

F E D CJ

H I

■ Utility stitch screen ■ Utility stitch editing screen

No. Display Key Name Explanation Page

1 – Stitches Press the key for the pattern you want to sew. B-35

2 Pattern display size Show the approximate size of the pattern selected.

100%: Nearly the same size as the sewn pattern 50%: 1/2 the size of the sewn pattern 25%: 1/4 the size of the sewn pattern The actual size of the sewn pattern may differ depending on the type of fabric and thread that is used.

3 – Stitch preview Shows a preview of the selected stitch. Approximate size of the pattern selected

shows at the bottom of the stitch preview. When shown at 100%, the stitch appears in the screen at nearly its actual size.

4 Presser foot Shows presser foot to be used. B-33

5 Needle position setting Shows single or twin needle mode setting, and the needle stop position.

: Single needle/down position

: Single needle/up position

: Twin needle/down position

: Twin needle/up position

6 Stitch width Shows the stitch width of the currently selected stitch pattern. B-40

B-35

B-13

–

7 Stitch length Shows the stitch length of the currently selected stitch pattern. B-40

8 L/R Shift Shows the tendency of left/right of the center line for the original zigzag stitch. B-41

9 Thread tension Shows the automatic thread tension setting for the currently selected stitch pattern. B-41

0 Manual adjustment key Press this key to display the following manual adjustment screen.

You can adjust the value of each item by pressing / .

1 Press to save stitch settings to machine memory (Width/Length/L/R Shift/

Tension).

2 Press to return the stitch settings to default.

A Page display Shows additional pages that can be displayed. –

B Edit/stitch switching key Press this key to switch to the utility stitch editing screen. –

C Image key Shows a preview of the sewn image. –

D Automatic thread cutting

key

E Automatic reverse/

F Pivot key Press this key to select the pivot function. B-44

G Single/repeat sewing key Press this key to choose single pattern or continuous patterns. Depending on the

B-12

reinforcement key

Press this key to set the automatic thread cutting function. B-43

Press this key to use the automatic reverse/reinforcement stitch function. B-38

selected stitch, this key may be disabled.

B-42

–

LCD Operation

5 6

9 0

No. Display Key Name Explanation Page

H Back to beginning key When sewing is stopped, press this key to return to the beginning of the pattern. For

details, refer to “Returning to the beginning of the pattern” in the “Decorative sewing” section.

I Mirror image key After selecting the stitch pattern, use this key to create a horizontal mirror image of

the stitch pattern.

J Free motion mode key Press this key to enter free motion sewing mode. B-45

–

B-43

Using the settings key

Press to change the default machine settings (needle stop position, embroidery speed, opening display, etc.). Press or

, after you changed necessary settings.

■ Sewing settings

Page 1 Page 2 Page 3

GETTING READY

1 Select whether to use the sewing speed controller to determine the zigzag width. For details, refer to “Satin stitching using the

sewing speed controller” in the “Sewing” section.

2 Make adjustments to character or decorative stitch patterns. For details, refer to “Making adjustments” in the “Decorative

sewing” section.

3 Set to “ON” when using twin needle. (page B-28) 4 Adjust the presser foot height. (Select the height of the presser foot when the presser foot is raised.) 5 Adjust the presser foot pressure. (The higher the number, the greater the pressure will be. Set the pressure at “3” for normal

sewing.) (page B-43)

6 Select either “1-01 Straight stitch (Left)” or “1-03 Straight stitch (Middle)” as the utility stitch that is automatically selected when

the machine is turned on.

7 Change the height of the presser foot when sewing is stopped when the pivot key is selected. Adjust the presser foot to one of

the three heights (3.2 mm, 5.0 mm and 7.5 mm). (page B-44)

8 Change the height of the presser foot when the machine is set to free motion sewing mode (page B-45). 9 When set to “ON”, the thickness of the fabric is automatically detected by an internal sensor while sewing. This enables the fabric

to be fed smoothly (page B-44).

0 When set “ON”, reinforcement stitches are sewn at the beginning and/or end of sewing for a reinforcement stitch pattern, even

when the reverse button is pressed.

Basic operations B-13

LCD Operation

■ Embroidery settings

Page 4 Page 5 Page 6

A Select the embroidery frame to be used and displayed as a guide. For details, refer to “Changing the “Embroidery Frame

Display”” in the “Embroidering” section.

B When set to “ON”, the embroidery pattern can be selected according to the embroidery frame size that you have selected in

number

A. For details, refer to “Selecting/displaying patterns according to the embroidery frame size” in the “Embroidering”

section.

C Change the thread color display on the “Embroidery” screen; thread number, color name. (page B-65). D When the thread number “#123” is selected, select from six thread brands. (page B-65). E Adjust the maximum embroidery speed setting. For details, refer to “Adjusting the embroidery speed” in the “Embroidering”

section.

F Adjust the upper thread tension for embroidering. For details, refer to “Adjusting thread tension” in the “Embroidering” section. G Select the height of the embroidery foot during embroidering. (page B-57). H Change the color of the background for the embroidery display area. For details, refer to “Changing the background colors of the

embroidery patterns” in the “Embroidering” section.

I Change the color of the background for the thumbnail area. For details, refer to “Changing the background colors of the

embroidery patterns” in the “Embroidering” section.

Page 7

J Press to specify the size of pattern thumbnails. For details, refer to “Specifying the size of pattern thumbnails” in the

“Embroidering” section.

K Change the display units (mm/inch).

B-14

LCD Operation

Memo

M N

■ General settings

Page 8 Page 9 Page 10

L Select the needle stop position (the needle position for when the machine is not being operated) to be up or down. Select the

down position when using the pivot key. (page B-44)

M Select whether to hear the beep operation sound. For details, refer to “Operation beep” in the “Appendix” section. N Select whether to display the opening screen when the machine is turned on. O Select the display language. (page B-16) P Select whether to turn on the light for the needle area and work area. Q Select the level of the input sensitivity for operation keys. (page B-16) R Display the total number of stitches sewn on this machine, which is a reminder to take your machine in for regular servicing.

(Contact your authorized Baby Lock retailer for details.)

S The “No.” is the internal machine number for your machine. T Display the program version of the LCD panel.

GETTING READY

• The latest version of software is installed in your machine. Check with your local authorized Baby Lock retailer or at

“ www.babylock.com flash drive” in the “Appendix” section.

• Press to save the current settings screen image to USB flash drive. (page B-17)

” for available updates. For details, refer to “Upgrading your machine’s software using USB

Basic operations B-15

LCD Operation

Note

■ Choosing the display language

Press .

Display page 8.

Use and to choose the display language.

1 Display language

Press to return to the original screen.

Adjusting input sensitivity for operation keys

Adjust the “Input Sensitivity” by pressing / .

• The higher the setting, the more sensitive the keys will be. The default setting is “3”.

• We recommend selecting the highest setting if an electrostatic touch pen is being used.

You can adjust the sensitivity of the operation keys to five levels. Display the settings screen to set desired level.

1 Operation keys

Press to display the settings screen.

Display page 9 by pressing / .

Press “Start”.

Press to return to previous screen.

■ If the machine does not respond when an operation key is pressed

Hold down (Thread cutter button) and turn on the machine to reset the settings. Display the settings screen, and then adjust the settings again.

B-16

→ The adjusting screen is displayed.

Saving a settings screen image to USB flash

4321

5 6 7 8

drive

An image of the settings screen can be saved as a BMP file.

Insert the USB flash drive into the USB port on the

right side of the machine.

1 USB port 2 USB flash drive

Press .

→ The settings screen appears. Select the settings screen

page, make the changes that you want, and then save the screen image.

LCD Operation

Press the item to be displayed.

1 Upper threading 2 Bobbin winding 3 Bobbin installation 4 Needle replacement 5 Embroidery unit attachment 6 Embroidery frame attachment 7 Embroidery foot attachment 8 Presser foot replacement

→ The first screen describing the procedure for the

selected topic appears.

• Pressing , returns you to the item selection screen.

GETTING READY

Press .

→ The image file will be saved to the USB flash drive.

Remove the USB flash drive, and then for future

reference, check the saved image using a computer.

• The files for settings screen images are saved with the name “S######.bmp” in a folder labeled “bPocket”.

Checking machine operating procedures

Turn on the machine.

→ The LCD comes on.

Press anywhere on the LCD screen.

Press on the operation panel.

Press to switch to the next page.

If you press , you return to the previous page.

After you have finished viewing, press two times.

→ The machine help screen appears.

Basic operations B-17

Winding/Installing the Bobbin

CAUTION

Memo

Winding/Installing the Bobbin

• Only use the Bobbin (part code: X52800-120) designed specifically for this machine. Use of any other bobbin may result in injuries or damage to the machine.

• The included bobbin was designed specifically for this machine. If bobbins from other models are used, the machine will not operate correctly. Use only the included bobbin or bobbins of the same type (X52800-120).

X52800-120 is Class15 type bobbin.

Open the top cover.

Place the bobbin on the bobbin winder shaft so that the

spring on the shaft fits into the notch in the bobbin Press down on the bobbin until it snaps into place.

* Actual size

1 This model 2 Other models 3 11.5 mm (approx. 7/16 inch)

• When the foot controller is connected, bobbin

winding can be started and stopped with the foot controller.

Winding the bobbin

This section describes how to wind thread onto a bobbin.

1 Notch 2 Bobbin winder shaft spring

Slide the bobbin winder in the direction of the arrow

until it snaps into place.

• The “Start/Stop” button lights up in orange.

Remove the spool cap that is inserted onto the spool

pin.

1 Spool pin 2 Spool cap

• When winding bobbin for embroidery be sure to

use the recommended bobbin thread for this machine.

B-18

Place the spool of thread for the bobbin onto the spool

CAUTION

Memo

pin.

Slide the spool onto the pin so that the spool is horizontal and the thread unwinds to the front at the bottom.

Winding/Installing the Bobbin

• When sewing with fine, cross-wound thread, use the small spool cap, and leave a small space between the cap and the spool.

• If the spool is not positioned so that the thread unwinds correctly, the thread may become tangled around the spool pin.

Slide the spool cap onto the spool pin.

Slide the spool cap as far as possible to the right, as shown, with the rounded side on the left.

• If the spool or the spool cap is not installed correctly, the thread may become tangled around the spool pin, causing the needle to break.

• Three spool cap sizes are available, allowing you to choose a spool cap that best fits the size of spool being used. If the spool cap is too small for the spool being used, the thread may catch on the slit in the spool or the machine may be damaged.

1 Spool cap (small) 2 Spool (cross-wound thread) 3 Space

• When using thread that winds off quickly, such as transparent nylon thread or metallic thread, place the spool net over the spool before placing the spool of thread onto the spool pin. If the spool net is too long, fold it to fit the size of the spool.

1 Spool net 2 Spool 3 Spool cap 4 Spool pin

• If a spool of thread whose core is 12 mm (1/2 inch) in diameter and 75 mm (3 inches) high is inserted onto the spool pin, use the thread spool insert (mini king thread spool).

GETTING READY

1 Thread spool insert (mini king thread spool) 2 12 mm (1/2 inch) 3 75 mm (3 inches)

Basic operations B-19

Winding/Installing the Bobbin

Note

CAUTION

Note

While holding the thread near the spool with your right

hand, as shown, pull the thread with your left hand, and then pass the thread behind the thread guide cover and to the front.

1 Thread guide cover

Pass the thread under the thread guide plate, and then

pull it to the right.

While holding the thread with your left hand, wind the

thread that was pulled out clockwise around the bobbin five or six times with your right hand.

• Make sure that the thread between the spool and the bobbin is pulled tight.

• Be sure to wind the thread clockwise around the bobbin, otherwise the thread will become wrapped around the bobbin winder shaft.

Pass the end of the thread through the guide slit in the

bobbin winder seat, and then pull the thread to the right to cut it.

1 Thread guide plate

Pass the thread under the hook on the thread guide,

and then wind it counterclockwise under the pretension disk.

1 Thread guide 2 Pretension disk 3 Pull it in as far as possible

• Make sure that the thread passes under the pretension disk.

1 Guide slit in bobbin winder seat

(with built-in cutter)

• Be sure to cut the thread as described. If the bobbin is wound without cutting the thread using the cutter built into the slit in the bobbin winder seat, the thread may become tangled in the bobbin or the needle may bend or break when the bobbin thread starts to run out.

Slide the sewing speed controller to the right.

1 Speed controller

• Bobbin winding speeds may vary depending on

type of thread being wound on bobbin.

Turn on the machine.

B-20

Press the “Start/Stop” button once to start winding the

CAUTION

Memo

CAUTION

bobbin. When the foot controller is plugged in, press down on the foot controller.

1 “Start/Stop” button

When the bobbin winding becomes slow, press the

“Start/Stop” button once to stop the machine. When the foot controller is plugged in, remove your foot from the foot controller.

Winding/Installing the Bobbin

Installing the bobbin

Install the bobbin wound with thread. You can begin sewing immediately without pulling up the bobbin thread by simply inserting the bobbin in the bobbin case and guiding the thread through the slit in the needle plate cover.

• For details on sewing after pulling up the bobbin thread, for example, when making gathers or with free motion quilting, refer to “Pulling up the bobbin thread” on page B-27.

• Use a bobbin that has been correctly wound with thread, otherwise the needle may break or the thread tension will be incorrect.

GETTING READY

• When the bobbin winding becomes slow, stop the machine, otherwise the machine may be damaged.

Use scissors to cut the end of the thread wound around

the bobbin.

Slide the bobbin winder shaft to the left, and then

remove the bobbin from the shaft.

• If the bobbin winder shaft is set to the right side,

the needle will not move. (Sewing is impossible.)

• Before inserting or changing the bobbin, be sure to press on the operation panel to

lock all keys and buttons, otherwise injuries may occur if the “Start/Stop” button or any other button is pressed and the machine starts.

Press (Needle position button) once or twice to

raise the needle.

Press .

• When the message “OK to automatically lower the presser foot? ” appears on the LCD screen, press

to continue.

→ The screen changes, and all keys and operation

buttons are locked (except ).

Slide the sewing speed controller to desired sewing

speed position.

Remove the spool for the bobbin thread from the spool

pin.

• When the machine is started or the handwheel is turned after winding the bobbin, the machine will make a clicking sound; this is not a malfunction.

Raise the presser foot lever.

Slide the bobbin cover latch to the right.

1 Bobbin cover 2 Latch

Basic operations B-21

Winding/Installing the Bobbin

CAUTION

Memo

Note

Remove the bobbin cover.

Hold the bobbin with your right hand with the thread

unwinding to the left, and hold the end of the thread with your left hand. Then, with your right hand, place the bobbin in the bobbin case.

Lightly hold down the bobbin with your right hand

(1), and then guide the end of the thread around the tab of the needle plate cover with your left hand (2).

While lightly holding down the bobbin with your right

hand (1), guide the thread through the slit in the needle plate cover (2) and lightly pull it with your left hand (3).

• The thread enters the tension spring of the bobbin case.

While lightly holding down the bobbin with your right

hand (1), continue guiding the thread through the slit with your left hand (2) Then, cut the thread with the cutter (3).

1 Tab

• Be sure to hold down the bobbin with your finger and unwind the bobbin thread correctly, otherwise the thread may break or the thread tension will be incorrect.

• The order that the bobbin thread should be

passed through the bobbin case is indicated by marks around the bobbin case. Be sure to thread the machine as indicated.

• If the thread is not correctly inserted through the tension-adjusting spring of the bobbin case, it may cause incorrect thread tension.

1 Tension-adjusting spring

B-22

Reattach the bobbin cover.

Memo

Insert the tab in the lower-left corner of the bobbin cover, and then lightly press down on the right side.

→ The bobbin threading is finished.

Next, thread the upper thread. Continue with the procedure in “Upper Threading” on page B-24.

• You can begin sewing without pulling up the bobbin thread. If you wish to pull up the bobbin thread before starting to sew, pull up the thread according to the procedure in “Pulling up the bobbin thread” on page B-27.

Press to unlock all keys and buttons.

Winding/Installing the Bobbin

GETTING READY

Basic operations B-23

Upper Threading

CAUTION

Note

Upper Threading

• When threading the upper thread, carefully follow the instructions. If the upper threading is not correct, the thread may become tangled or the needle may bend or break.

• Never use a thread weight of 20 or lower.

• Use the needle and the thread in the correct combination. For details on the correct combination of needles and threads, refer to “Fabric/thread/needle combinations” on page B-30.

Raise the presser foot lever to raise the presser foot.

1 Presser foot lever

→ The upper thread shutter opens so the machine can

be threaded.

• If the presser foot is not raised, the machine cannot be threaded.

Press (Needle position button) once or twice to

raise the needle.

Threading the upper thread

Turn on the machine.

1 Needle position button

→ The needle is correctly raised when the mark on the

handwheel is at the top, as shown below. Check the

handwheel and, if this mark is not at this position, press (Needle position button) until it is.

1 Mark on handwheel

Remove the spool cap that is inserted onto the spool

pin.

1 Spool pin 2 Spool cap

B-24

Upper Threading

CAUTION

Note

Place the spool of thread onto the spool pin.

Slide the spool onto the pin so that the spool is horizontal and the thread unwinds to the front at the bottom.

• If the spool or the spool cap is not positioned correctly, the thread may become tangled around the spool pin or the needle may break.

Slide the spool cap onto the spool pin.

Slide the spool cap as far as possible to the right, as shown, with the rounded side on the left.

While using your right hand to lightly hold the thread

passed under the thread guide plate, pass the thread through the guides in the order shown below.

• If the presser foot has been lowered and the shutter is closed, the machine cannot be threaded. Be sure to raise the presser foot to open the shutter before threading the machine. In addition, before removing the upper thread, be sure to raise the presser foot to open the shutter.

• This machine is equipped with a window that allows you to check the position of the take-up lever. Look through this window and check that the thread is correctly fed through the take-up lever.

GETTING READY

While holding the thread lightly with your right hand,

pull the thread with your left hand, and then pass the thread behind the thread guide cover and to the front.

1 Thread guide cover

Pass the thread under the thread guide plate, and then

pull it up.

1 Thread guide plate

Press .

• When the message “OK to automatically lower the presser foot? ” appears on the LCD screen, press

to continue.

→ The screen changes, and all keys and operation

buttons are locked (except ).

Slide the thread behind the needle bar thread guide.

The thread can easily be slid behind the needle bar thread guide by holding the thread in your left hand, then feeding the thread with your right hand, as shown.

1 Needle bar thread guide

Basic operations B-25

Upper Threading

Memo

Note

Raise the presser foot lever.

Threading the needle

• The needle threader can be used with machine needles 75/11 through 100/16.

• The needle threader cannot be used with the wing needle or the twin needle.

• When thread such as transparent nylon monofilament or specialty threads are used it is not recommended to use the needle threader.

• If the needle threader cannot be used, refer to “Threading the needle manually (without using the needle threader)” on page B-27.

Pull the end of the thread, which has been passed

through the needle bar thread guide, to the left, then pass the thread through the notch of the threader thread guide a, and then firmly pull the thread from the front and insert it into the slit of the threader thread guide disk marked “7” all the way b.

• Make sure that the thread passes through the notch of the threader thread guide.

• If the thread is pulled through and cannot be cut correctly, lower the presser foot lever so that the thread is held in place before cutting the thread. If this operation is performed, skip step

• When using thread that quickly winds off the spool, such as metallic thread, it may be difficult to thread the needle if the thread is cut. Therefore, instead of using the thread cutter, pull out about 80 mm (approx. 3 inches) of thread after passing it through the threader thread guide disks (marked “7”).

1 80mm (approx. 3 inches) or more

Lower the presser foot lever to lower the presser foot.

B-26

1 Notch of the threader thread guide 2 Threader thread guide disk

Cut the thread with the cutter on the left side of the machine.

1 Cutter

1 Presser foot lever

Lower the needle threader lever on the left side of the

machine until it clicks, and then slowly return the lever to its original position.

1 Hook 2 Needle threader lever

→ The hook is rotated and passes the thread through the

eye of the needle.

• If the needle is not raised to it's highest position, the needle threader cannot thread the needle. Turn handwheel counterclockwise until the needle is at its highest position. The needle is correctly raised when the mark on the handwheel is at the top, as shown under step

c on

page B-24.

Carefully pull the end of thread that was passed

CAUTION

through the eye of the needle.

If the needle was not completely threaded, but a loop in the thread was formed in the eye of the needle, carefully pull the loop through the eye of the needle to pull out the end of the thread.

• When pulling out the thread, do not pull it with extreme force, otherwise the needle may break or bend.

Raise the presser foot lever, pass the end of the thread

through and under the presser foot, and then pull out about 5 cm (approx. 2 inches) of thread toward the rear of the machine.

Upper Threading

Pulling up the bobbin thread

When making gathers or before free motion quilting, first pull up the bobbin thread as described below.

Refer to “Threading the upper thread” (page B-24) to

thread the machine with the upper thread and thread the needle.

Follow steps d to f in “Installing the bobbin”

(page B-21) for installing the bobbin to insert the bobbin into the bobbin case.

Pass the bobbin thread through the slot.

Do not cut the thread with the cutter.

While lightly holding the upper thread with your left

hand, press (Needle position button) twice to raise the needle.

GETTING READY

1 5 cm (approx. 2 inches)

Press to unlock all keys and buttons.

Threading the needle manually (without using the needle threader)

When using specialty thread, such as transparent nylon thread, a wing needle or a twin needle which cannot be used with the needle threader, thread the needle as described below.

Thread the machine to the needle bar thread guide.

• For details, refer to “Upper Threading” on page B-24.

Insert the thread through the eye of the needle from

front to back.

→ The bobbin thread is looped around the upper thread

and can be pulled up.

Carefully pull the upper thread upward to pull out the

end of the bobbin thread.

Pull up the bobbin thread, pass it under the presser

foot and pull it about 10 cm (4 inches) toward the back of the machine, making it even with the upper thread.

Raise the presser foot lever, pass the end of the thread

through and under the presser foot, and then pull out about 5 cm (approx. 2 inches) of thread toward the rear of the machine.

Press to unlock all keys and buttons.

Basic operations B-27

Upper Threading

Memo

CAUTION

Reattach the bobbin cover.

Insert the tab in the lower-left corner of the bobbin cover, and then lightly press down on the right side.

Using the twin needle

With the twin needle, you can sew two parallel lines of the same stitch with two different threads. Both upper threads should have the same thickness and quality. Be sure to use the twin needle, the horizontal spool pin and the appropriate spool caps.

For details on the stitches that can be sewn with the twin needle, refer to “Stitch Setting Chart” beginning on page B-47.

Manually thread the left needle with the upper thread.

Pass the thread through the eye of the needle from the front.

Insert the horizontal spool pin onto the bobbin winder

shaft.

Insert the spool pin so that it is perpendicular to the bobbin winder shaft.

• Traditionally a twin needle is also used for creating

pintucks. Contact your nearest authorized Baby Lock retailer to obtain the optional pintuck foot for your machine (ESG-PF).

• Only use the twin needle (2.0/11 needle, part code: X59296-121). Use of any other needle may bend the needle or damage the machine.

• Never use bent needles. Bent needles can easily break, possibly resulting in injuries.

• The needle threader cannot be used with the twin needle. If the needle threader is used with the twin needle, the machine may be damaged.

Install the twin needle.

• For details on installing a needle, refer to “Replacing the needle” on page B-31.

1 Bobbin winder shaft

Swing the spool pin toward the left so that it is

horizontal.

Place the upper thread spool for the needle on the right

side onto the spool pin, and then secure it with the spool cap.

The thread should unroll from the top front of the spool.

1 Spool cap 2 Spool

Thread the upper thread for the left needle eye.

• For details, refer to steps “Threading the upper thread” on page B-24.

B-28

a through k of

Upper Threading

CAUTION

Note

CAUTION

Thread the upper thread in the same way that the

upper thread for the left side was threaded.

1 Thread guide cover

• For details, refer to steps g through i of

“Threading the upper thread” on page B-24.

Without passing the thread through the needle bar

thread guide, manually thread the right needle.

Insert the thread through the eye of the needle from the front.

Press .

• When using the twin needle, be sure to select the twin needle setting, otherwise the needle may break or the machine may be damaged.

Start sewing.

• For details on starting to sew, refer to “STARTING TO SEW” on page B-35.

→ Two lines of stitching are sewn parallel to each other.

GETTING READY

• The needle threader cannot be used with the twin needle. If the needle threader is used with the twin needle, the machine may be damaged.

Attach zigzag foot “J”.

• For details on changing the presser foot, refer to “Replacing the presser foot” on page B-33.

• When using the twin needle, be sure to attach zigzag foot “J”. If bunched stitches occur, use presser foot “N” or attach stabilizer material.

Turn on the machine and select a stitch.

• For stitch selection see “Sewing a stitch” on page B-

35.

• See “Stitch Setting Chart” on page B-47 for stitches that use a twin needle.

• When using the twin needle, be sure to select an appropriate stitch, otherwise the needle may break or the machine may be damaged.

• When changing the sewing direction, press (Needle position button) to raise the needle from the fabric, and then raise the presser foot lever and turn the fabric.

• Do not try turning the fabric while the twin needle is down in the fabric, otherwise the needle may break or the machine may be damaged.

Press to display the settings screen.

Set “Twin Needle” to “ON.”

Basic operations B-29

Replacing the Needle

CAUTION

Note

CAUTION

Replacing the Needle

Be sure to observe the following precautions concerning the handling of the needle. Failure to observe these precautions is extremely dangerous, for example, if the needle breaks and fragments are dispersed. Be sure to read and carefully follow the instructions below.

• Only use recommended home machine needles. Use of any other needle may bend the needle or damage the machine.

• Never use bent needles. Bent needles can easily break, possibly resulting in injuries.

Fabric/thread/needle combinations

The machine needle that should be used depends on the fabric and thread thickness. Refer to the following table when choosing the thread and needle appropriate for the fabric that you wish to sew.

Fabric Type/Application Thread Size of Needle

Type Size

Medium weight

fabrics

Thin fabrics Lawn Cotton thread

Heavy fabrics Denim

Stretch fabrics Jersey

Easily frayed fabrics

For top-stitching

• Never use thread of 20 weight or lower. It may

cause the machine to malfunction.

Broadcloth Cotton thread

Taffeta Synthetic thread

Flannel, Gabardine Silk thread 50

Georgette Synthetic thread

Challis, Satin Silk thread 50

Corduroy Synthetic thread

Tweed Silk thread

Thread for knits 50–60

Tr ic ot

Synthetic thread 30 100/16

60–90

Cotton thread

Silk thread 50

Silk thread 50–90 90/14–100/16

30 100/16

50–60

50–90

75/11–90/14

65/9–75/11

90/14–100/16

Ball point needle

75/11–90/14

(gold colored)

65/9–90/14Synthetic thread

■ Embroidery needles

Use a 75/11 home machine needle. When embroidering on heavier fabrics such as denim, use a 90/14 or 100/16 home machine needle.

■ Thread and needle number

The lower the thread number is, the heavier the thread; the higher the needle number, the larger the needle.

■ Ball point needle (gold colored)

To avoid skipped stitches use ball point needles (75/ 11–90/14) with stretch fabrics.

■ Transparent nylon thread

Use a 90/14 to 100/16 needle, regardless of the fabric or thread.

B-30

• The appropriate fabric, thread and needle combinations are shown in the table above. If the combination of the fabric, thread and needle is not correct, particularly when sewing heavy fabrics (such as denim) with thin needles (such as 65/9 to 75/11), the needle may bend or break. In addition, the stitching may be uneven or puckered or there may be skipped stitches.

Checking the needle

CAUTION

Note

Sewing with a bent needle is extremely dangerous since the needle may break while the machine is being operated.

Before using the needle, place the flat side of the needle on a flat surface and check that the distance between the needle and the flat surface is even.

1 Flat side 2 Needle type marking

• If the distance between the needle and the flat surface is not even, the needle is bent. Do not use a bent needle.

Replacing the Needle

Press .

• When the message “OK to automatically lower the presser foot? ” appears on the LCD screen, press

to continue.

→ The screen changes, and all keys and operation

buttons are locked (except ).

Hold the needle with your left hand, and then use a

screwdriver to turn the needle clamp screw toward you (counterclockwise) to remove the needle.

• The needle clamp screw can also be loosened or tightened with the L-shaped (or disc-shaped) screwdriver.

GETTING READY

1 Flat surface

Replacing the needle

Use the screwdriver and a needle that has been determined to be straight according to the instructions in “Checking the needle”.

Press (Needle position button) once or twice to

raise the needle.

Place fabric or paper under the presser foot to cover

the hole in the needle plate.

• Before replacing the needle, cover the hole in the needle plate with fabric or paper to prevent the needle from falling into the machine.

1 Screwdriver 2 Needle clamp screw

• Do not apply a strong force when loosening or tightening the needle clamp screw, otherwise certain parts of the machine may be damaged.

With the flat side of the needle toward the rear of the

machine, insert the needle until it touches the needle stopper.

1 Needle stopper

While holding the needle with your left hand, use the

screwdriver to tighten the needle clamp screw by turning it clockwise.

Basic operations B-31

Replacing the Needle

CAUTION

• Be sure to insert the needle until it touches the needle stopper and securely tighten the needle clamp screw with the screwdriver, otherwise the needle may break or damage may result.

Press to unlock all keys and buttons.

B-32

Replacing the Presser Foot

CAUTION

Replacing the Presser Foot

Place a different presser foot below the holder so that

the presser foot pin is aligned with the notch in the holder.

• Use the presser foot appropriate for the type

of stitch that you wish to sew, otherwise the needle may hit the presser foot, causing the needle to bend or break.

• Only use presser feet designed specifically for

this machine. Use of any other presser foot may result in injuries or damage to the machine.

Replacing the presser foot

Press (Needle position button) once or twice to

raise the needle.

Press .

• When the message “OK to automatically lower the presser foot? ” appears on the LCD screen, press

to continue.

→ The screen changes, and all keys and operation

buttons are locked (except ).

1 Presser foot holder 2 Notch 3 Pin 4 Presser foot type

Slowly lower the presser foot lever so that the presser

foot pin snaps into the notch in the presser foot holder.

GETTING READY

Raise the presser foot lever.

Press the black button at the back of the presser foot

holder in order to remove the presser foot.

1 Black button 2 Presser foot holder

1 Presser foot lever 2 Presser foot holder 3 Notch 4 Pin

→ The presser foot is attached.

Raise the presser foot lever to check that the presser

foot is securely attached.

1 Presser foot lever

Press to unlock all keys and buttons.

Basic operations B-33

Replacing the Presser Foot

Note

CAUTION

Note

■ Attaching the presser foot holder

• When a stitch is selected, the icon for the presser foot that should be used appears in the screen. Check that the correct presser foot is attached before starting to sew.

Zigzag foot “J”

Monogramming foot “N”

Overcasting foot “G”

Buttonhole foot “A”

Blind stitch foot “R”

Button fitting foot “M”

Side cutter “S”

Raise the presser foot lever.

Align the presser foot holder with the lower-left side of

the presser bar.

Hold the presser foot holder in place with your right

hand, and then tighten the screw using the screwdriver in your left hand.

Turn the screw toward you (clockwise).

• For details on the presser foot that should be used with the selected stitch, refer to “Stitch Setting Chart” beginning on page B-47.

Removing and attaching the presser foot holder

Remove the presser foot holder when cleaning the machine or when installing a presser foot that does not use the presser foot holder, such as the walking foot and quilting foot. Use the screwdriver to remove the presser foot holder.

Remove the presser foot.

• For details, refer to “Replacing the presser foot” on page B-33.

Use the screwdriver to loosen the presser foot holder

screw.

Turn the screw toward the back of the machine (counterclockwise).

• The presser foot holder screw can also be loosened or tightened with the L-shaped (or disc-shaped) screwdriver.

1 Screwdriver

• Be sure to securely tighten the presser foot holder screw, otherwise the presser foot holder may fall off and the needle may strike it, causing the needle to bend or break.

• If the presser foot holder is not correctly

installed, the thread tension will be incorrect.

1 Screwdriver 2 Presser foot holder 3 Presser foot holder screw

B-34

Sewing

CAUTION

7 8 9

Chapter 2

STARTING TO SEW

Sewing

• While the machine is in operation, pay special attention to the needle location. In addition, keep your hands away from all moving parts such as the needle and handwheel, otherwise injuries may occur.

• Do not pull or push the fabric too hard while sewing, otherwise injuries may occur or the needle may break.

• Never use bent needles. Bent needles can easily break, possibly resulting in injuries.

• Make sure that the needle does not strike basting pins, otherwise the needle may break or bend.

Sewing a stitch

Turn the main power to ON and press (Needle

position button) to raise the needle.

→ The screen of appears. If you want to sew any

stitch in category, proceed to step 4.

Press on the operation panel.

STARTING TO SEW

Stitch types

1 Utility stitches

You can select from utility stitches, including straight line stitching, overcasting, buttonhole and basic decorative stitches. For details on the various stitches, refer to “Stitch Setting Chart” beginning on page B-47.

2 Decorative stitches 3 Satin stitches 4 7 mm satin stitches 5 Cross stitch stitches 6 Utility decorative stitches 7 Character stitches 8 Patterns stored in the machine's memory

Patterns recalled from machine's memory can be sewn.

9 Patterns stored in USB flash drive

Patterns recalled from the USB flash drive can be sewn.

• For details on sewing and storing the stitches 2 through 9, refer to “Decorative sewing” section.

Select the stitch type.

Press the stitch selection.

displays the previous screen, and displays the

next screen.

• For details on the key functions, refer to “Viewing the LCD” on page B-11.

Basic operations B-35

Sewing

Note

CAUTION

Memo

If necessary, specify the setting for automatic reverse/

reinforcement stitching and adjust the stitch length, etc.

• For details on adjusting the stitch width and length, refer to “Setting the stitch width” on page B-40 and “Setting the stitch length” on page B-40.

Install the presser foot.

• For details on changing the presser foot, refer to “Replacing the presser foot” on page B-33.

• When a stitch is selected, the icon for the presser foot that should be used appears on the screen. Check that the correct presser foot is attached before starting to sew.

• Always use the correct presser foot. If the wrong presser foot is used, the needle may strike the presser foot and bend or break, possibly resulting in injury. Refer to page B-47 for presser foot recommendations.

Adjust the sewing speed with the sewing speed

controller.

You can use this controller to adjust sewing speed during sewing.

1 Fast 2 Slow

Press the “Start/Stop” button to start sewing.

Guide the fabric lightly by hand.

Set the fabric under the presser foot. Hold the fabric

and thread with your left hand, and rotate the handwheel counterclockwise or press (Needle position button) to set the needle in the sewing start position.

• The black button on the left side of presser foot

“J” should be pressed only if the fabric does not feed or when sewing thick seams. For details, refer to “Sewing thick fabrics” in the “Sewing” section. Normally, you can sew without pressing the black button.

• When the foot controller is being used, you cannot start sewing by pressing the “Start/Stop” button.

Press the “Start/Stop” button again to stop sewing.

Press (Thread cutter button) to trim the upper and

lower threads.

Lower the presser foot.

You do not have to pull up the bobbin thread.

B-36

1 Thread cutter button

→ The needle will return to the up position

automatically.

CAUTION

• Do not press (Thread cutter button) after

Note

Memo

CAUTION

Memo

the threads have been cut. Doing so could tangle the thread or break the needle and damage the machine.

• Do not press (Thread cutter button) when there is no fabric set in the machine or during machine operation. The thread may tangle, possibly resulting in damage.

Turn off the machine.

Insert the foot controller plug into its jack on the

machine.

Sewing

STARTING TO SEW

• When cutting thread such as nylon monofilament

thread, or other decorative threads, use the thread cutter on the side of the machine.

When the needle has stopped moving, raise the presser

foot and remove the fabric.

• This machine is equipped with a bobbin thread

sensor that warns you when the bobbin thread is almost empty. When the bobbin thread is nearly empty, the machine automatically stops. However, if the “Start/Stop” button is pressed, a few stitches can be sewn. When the warning displays, replace with a wound bobbin immediately.

1 Foot controller jack

Turn on the machine.

Slowly depress the foot controller to start sewing.

• The speed that is set using the sewing speed controller will be the foot controller’s maximum sewing speed.

Release the foot controller to stop the machine.

■ Using the foot controller

You can also use the foot controller to start and stop sewing.

• Do not allow fabric pieces and dust to collect in the foot controller. Doing so could cause a fire or an electric shock.

• When the foot controller is being used, you

cannot start sewing by pressing the “Start/Stop” button.

• Bobbin winding can be started and stopped with

the foot controller.

• The foot controller cannot be used when

embroidering.

Basic operations B-37

Sewing

Memo

Sewing reinforcement stitches

Reverse/reinforcement stitches are generally necessary at the

beginning and end of sewing. You can use (Reverse stitch button) to sew reverse/reinforcement stitches. Refer to “Stitch

Setting Chart” under the column for “Reverse/ Reinforcement stitching” on page B-47.

While pressing will sew 3 to 5 reinforcement stitches at that point and then

stop.

1 Reverse stitch button 2 Reinforcement stitch button

If the automatic reinforcement stitch is selected on the screen, reverse stitches (or reinforcement stitches) will be sewn automatically at the beginning of sewing when the “Start/

Stop” button is pressed. Press (Reverse stitch button) or

(Reinforcement stitch button) to sew reverse stitches or

reinforcement stitches automatically at the end of sewing.

(Reinforcement stitch button), the machine

1 2

Automatic reinforcement stitching

After selecting a stitch motif, turn on the automatic reinforcement stitching function before sewing, and the machine will automatically sew reinforcement stitches (or reverse stitches, depending on the stitch motif) at the beginning and end of sewing. Refer to the table on page B-39.

Select a stitch pattern.

Press to set the automatic reinforcement stitching

function.

→ The key will display as .

• Some stitches, such as buttonholes and bar tacks, require reinforcement stitches at the beginning of sewing. If you select one of these stitches, the machine will automatically turn on

this function (the key appears as when the stitch is selected).

1 Reverse stitch 2 Reinforcement stitch

The operation performed when the button is pressed differs depending on the selected pattern. Refer to the table in “Automatic reinforcement stitching” on page B-38.

• While pressing (Reinforcement stitch button) when sewing character/decorative stitch pattern, you can end sewing with a completed motif instead of at the midpoint of a stitch motif.

• The green light on the left of (Reinforcement stitch button) lights up while the machine is sewing a full motif, and it automatically turns off when the sewing is stopped.

Set the fabric in the start position and begin sewing.

1 Reverse stitches (or reinforcement stitches)

→ The machine will automatically sew reverse stitches

(or reinforcement stitches) and then continue sewing.

• When selecting the stitches below, the machine will automatically sew reverse stitches at the beginning of the stitch.

• If you press the “Start/Stop” button to pause sewing, press it again to continue. The machine will not sew reverse/reinforcement stitches again.

B-38

Sewing

Memo

Press (Reverse stitch button) or (Reinforcement

stitch button).

1 Reverse stitches (or reinforcement stitches)

→ The machine will sew reverse stitches (or

reinforcement stitches) and stop.

• To turn off the automatic reinforcement stitching

function, press again, so it appears as .

The operation performed when the button is pressed differs depending on the selected pattern. Refer to the following table for details on the operation that is performed when the button is pressed.

When the automatic reinforcement stitching function is not active while selecting character/ decorative stitches

When the automatic reinforcement stitching function is active while selecting character/decorative stitches

Reverse stitch

button

Machine starts sewing and then sews reinforcement stitches while holding the Reverse stitch button.

Machine sews reinforcement stitches at the beginning and sews reinforcement stitches when the Reverse stitch button is pressed.

Reinforcement

stitch button

Machine starts sewing at the beginning, then completes the pattern and sews reinforcement stitches at the end of sewing.

Machine sews reinforcement stitches at the beginning, then completes the pattern and sews reinforcement stitches at the end of sewing.

* If “Reinforcement Priority” on page 3 of the settings screen

is set to “ON”, reinforcement stitches are sewn instead of reverse stitches.

STARTING TO SEW

When the automatic reinforcement stitching function is not active while selecting utility stitches like examples shown below

When the automatic reinforcement stitching function is active while selecting utility stitches like examples shown below

Reverse stitch

button

Machine starts sewing the stitches and only sews reverse stitches while holding the Reverse stitch button.

Machine starts sewing the stitches and only sews reverse stitches while holding the Reverse stitch button.*

Machine sews reverse stitches at the beginning and end of sewing.

Reinforcement

stitch button

Machine starts sewing the stitches and sews 3 - 5 reinforcement stitches while holding the Reinforcement stitch button.

Machine sews reverse stitches at the beginning and reinforcement stitches at the end of sewing.

When the automatic reinforcement stitching function is active while selecting utility stitches like examples shown below

Machine sews reinforcement stitches at the beginning and reverse stitches at the end of sewing.*

Machine sews reinforcement stitches at the beginning and end of sewing.

Basic operations B-39

Setting the Stitch

Note

Memo

CAUTION

Memo

Setting the Stitch

This machine is preset with the default settings for the stitch width, stitch length, “L/R Shift”, and upper thread tension for each stitch. However, you can change any of

the settings by pressing in the utility stitch screen, then following the procedure described in this section.

• Press to return the setting to its default.

• If the straight stitch (left needle position or triple stretch stitch) was selected, changing the stitch width changes the needle position. Increasing the width moves the needle to the right; reducing the width moves the needle to the left.

• means the setting cannot be adjusted.

After changing the settings, press to return to the utility stitch screen.

• Stitch settings return to their defaults if they are changed, when the machine is turned off or a different stitch is selected before the stitch setting is saved, refer to “Saving stitch settings” on page B-42.

Setting the stitch width

The stitch width (zigzag width) can be adjusted to make the stitch wider or narrower.

• After adjusting the stitch width, slowly turn the handwheel toward you (counterclockwise) and check that the needle does not touch the presser foot. If the needle hits the presser foot, the needle may bend or break.

Setting the stitch length

The stitch length can be adjusted to make the stitch coarser (longer) or finer (shorter).

Each press of

makes the stitch finer (shorter).

Each press of makes the zigzag stitch narrower.

Each press of

B-40

makes the zigzag stitch wider.

Each press of makes the stitch coarser (longer).

• Press to return the setting to its default.

• means the setting cannot be adjusted.

Setting the Stitch

Memo

CAUTION

Note

Setting the “L/R Shift”

Follow the steps below when you want to change the placement of the zigzag stitch pattern by moving it left and right.

Press to shift the pattern to the left.

→ The value in the display appears with a minus sign.

Press to shift the pattern to the right side of the left needle position.

Setting the thread tension

You may need to change the thread tension, depending on the fabric and thread being used.

■ Correct thread tension

The upper thread and the bobbin thread should cross near the center of the fabric. Only the upper thread should be visible from the right side of the fabric, and only the bobbin thread should be visible from the wrong side of the fabric.

1 Wrong side of fabric 2 Right side of fabric 3 Upper thread 4 Bobbin thread

STARTING TO SEW

→ The value in the display appears with a plus sign.

• Press to return the setting to its default.

• means the setting cannot be adjusted.

• After adjusting the “L/R Shift”, slowly rotate the handwheel toward you (counterclockwise) and check that the needle does not touch the presser foot. If the needle hits the presser foot, the needle may bend or break.

• If the stitches are bunched together, increase the stitch length. Continuing to sew with the stitches bunched together may result in the needle bending or breaking.

■ Upper thread is too tight

If the bobbin thread is visible from the right side of the fabric, the upper thread is too tight.

• If the bobbin thread was incorrectly threaded, the upper thread may be too tight. In this case, refer to “Installing the bobbin” on page B-21 and rethread the bobbin thread.

1 Wrong side of fabric 2 Right side of fabric 3 Upper thread 4 Bobbin thread 5 The bobbin thread is visible from the right side of the

fabric.

Each press of makes the thread tension looser.

Basic operations B-41

Setting the Stitch

Note

■ Upper thread is too loose

If the upper thread is visible from the wrong side of the fabric, the upper thread is too loose.

• If the upper thread was incorrectly threaded, the upper thread may be too loose. In this case, refer to “Upper Threading” on page B-24 and rethread the upper thread.

1 Wrong side of fabric 2 Right side of fabric 3 Upper thread 4 Bobbin thread 5 The upper thread is visible from the wrong side of the

fabric.

Each press of makes the thread tension tighter.

• If the upper thread is not threaded correctly or the bobbin is not installed correctly, it may not be possible to set the correct thread tension. If the correct thread tension cannot be achieved, rethread the upper thread and insert the bobbin correctly.

Press .

• To reset the selected stitch pattern back to its default settings, press , and then press .

Press .

→ The original screen is displayed.

• The next time that the same straight stitch is selected, the stitch length is set to 2.0 mm.

• All stitch settings (stitch width (zigzag width), stitch length, L/R shift, thread tension) are saved, not just the setting that was changed. When the same stitch pattern is selected, the last settings saved are displayed even if the machine was turned off. If the settings are changed again, or if

is pressed to reset the setting to its default, the new settings are not saved unless is pressed another time. Even if is pressed, the settings for programmed thread cutting and automatic reverse/reinforcement stitching cannot be reset.

Saving stitch settings

If you wish to save specific settings for a stitch so that they can

be used later, press after changing the settings to save the new settings with the selected stitch. This feature can be used only with utility stitches.

 To use a stitch length of 2.0 mm for the straight stitch

Select a straight stitch.

Press .

Set the stitch length to 2.0 mm.

B-42

Useful Functions

Memo

Useful Functions

Automatically cutting the thread

The machine can be set to automatically cut the threads at the end of the stitching. This is called “programmed threadcutting”. If programmed thread-cutting is set, automatic reverse/reinforcement stitching is also set.

Turn on the machine.

Select a stitch.

• For details on selecting a stitch, refer to “Sewing a stitch” on page B-35.

Press on the screen.

→ You get

programmed thread-cutting and automatic reverse/ reinforcement stitching.

• To turn programmed thread cutting off, press .

, and the machine is set for

• Programmed thread-cutting will not be performed if the “Start/Stop” button is pressed while sewing.

Press (Reverse stitch button) or (Reinforcement stitch button) at the end of the stitching.

• If the power is turned off, programmed threadcutting will be turned off.

Mirroring stitches

You can sew the mirror image of a stitch horizontally (left and right).

Turn on the machine.

Select a stitch.

• For details on selecting a stitch, refer to “Sewing a stitch” on page B-35.

Press , and then on the screen.

STARTING TO SEW

Set the fabric in place, and press the “Start/Stop”

button once.

→ Stitching will begin after reverse stitches or

reinforcement stitches are sewn.

Once you have reached the end of the stitching, press

(Reverse stitch button) or (Reinforcement stitch

button) once.

If stitching, such as buttonholes and bar tacking, that includes reinforcement stitching has been selected, this operation is unnecessary.

→ After the reverse stitching or reinforcement stitching

has been done, the machine stops, and the thread is cut.

1 The point where the “Start/Stop” button was pressed.

2 The point where (Reverse stitch button) or

(Reinforcement stitch button) was pressed.

3 The thread is cut here.

→ It turns to , and the pattern displayed at the top of

the screen is mirrored.

• To turn the mirrored stitching off, press .

• Mirroring is not possible when the mirroring icon is grayed out on the editing screen. Certain stitches, such as buttonholes, etc., cannot be mirrored.

• When the machine is turned off, the mirroring setting is cancelled.

Adjusting the presser foot pressure

You can adjust the presser foot pressure (the amount of pressure applied to the fabric by the presser foot) on the settings screen. The higher the number, the greater the pressure will be. Set the pressure at “3” for normal sewing.

Press to display the settings screen.

Display page 2.

Basic operations B-43

Useful Functions

CAUTION

Memo

Note

Adjust the “Presser Foot Pressure” by pressing / .

Automatic Fabric Sensor System (Automatic presser foot pressure)

The thickness of the fabric is automatically detected and the presser foot pressure is automatically adjusted with an internal sensor while sewing, to insure that your fabric is fed smoothly. The fabric sensor system works continuously while sewing. This function is useful for sewing over thick seams or quilting. For details, refer to the “Sewing” section.

Pivoting

If the pivot key is selected, the machine stops with the needle lowered (in the fabric) and the presser foot is automatically raised to an appropriate height when the “Start/Stop” button is pressed. When the “Start/Stop” button is pressed again, the presser foot is automatically lowered and sewing continues. This function is useful for stopping the machine to rotate the fabric.

• When the pivot key is selected, the machine will begin stitching when the “Start/Stop” button is pressed or the foot controller is pressed down even if the presser foot has been

raised by pressing (Presser foot lifter button). Be sure to keep your hands and other items away from the needle, otherwise injuries may occur.

Press to display the settings screen.

Display page 3.

Set “Automatic Fabric Sensor System” to “ON”.

Press to return to the original screen.

• When the pivot key is selected, the height of the

presser foot when sewing is stopped can be changed according to the type of fabric being

sewn. Press to display “Pivoting Height” in

the settings screen. Press or to select one of the three heights (3.2 mm, 5.0 mm or 7.5 mm). Generally 3.2 mm is the preferred setting.

• The “Needle Position - Up / Down” in the

settings screen, must be set to the down

position When “Needle Position - Up / Down” is set in the

raised position, appears as light gray and cannot be used.

• The pivot function can only be used with stitches

where presser foot J or N is indicated in the upper-left corner of the screen. If any other stitch

is selected, appears as light gray and is not available.

• Use (Presser foot lifter button) to make sure

the presser foot is lowered, and then press the “Start/Stop” button to continue sewing.

• If the pivot key is selected, and beside

“Presser Foot Height” in the settings screen are not available and the setting cannot be changed.

for the pivot function to be used.

B-44

Useful Functions

Memo

CAUTION

Select a stitch.

Press to select the pivot function.

→ The key appears as .

Place the fabric under the presser foot with the needle

at the starting point of the stitching, lower presser foot and then press the “Start/Stop” button. The machine will begin sewing.

Rotate the fabric, and then press the “Start/Stop”

button.

→ The presser foot is automatically lowered, and

sewing continues.

Sewing with free motion mode

In free motion mode, the presser foot is raised to the necessary height for free motion sewing. When starting to sew, the internal sensor detects the thickness of the fabric, and the quilting foot is raised to the height specified in the machine settings screen.

In this mode, lower the feed dogs (using the feed dog position switch) so that the fabric can be moved freely in any direction.

STARTING TO SEW

• If you press the “Start/Stop” button to pause sewing, press it again to continue, reverse stitches (or reinforcement stitches) will not be sewn.

Press the “Start/Stop” button to stop the machine at

the point where the sewing direction changes.

→ The machine stops with the needle in the fabric, and

the presser foot is raised.

• With free motion quilting, control the feeding speed of the fabric to match the sewing speed. If the fabric is moved faster than the sewing speed, the needle may break or other damage may result.

■ Adjusting free motion presser foot height

Select a stitch.

Press to display editing screen.

Press .

→ The key appears as .

Press to display the settings screen.

Basic operations B-45

Useful Functions

Memo

Note

CAUTION

Display page 3.

Adjust the “Free Motion Foot Height” by pressing /

to select the height that the quilting foot is raised

above the fabric.

• Increase the setting by pressing , for example, when sewing very stretchy fabric, so that it is easier to sew.

• In order to sew with a balanced tension, it may be necessary to adjust the upper thread tension. For details, refer to “Setting the thread tension” on page B-41. Test with a sample piece of quilting fabric.

Hands-free raising and lifting of the presser foot

Using the knee lifter, you can raise and lower the presser foot with your knee, leaving both hands free to handle the fabric.

• If the knee lifter is not fully inserted into the mounting slot, it may fall out while the machine is operating.

■ Using the knee lifter

Stop the machine.

• Do not use the knee lifter while the machine is operating.

With your knee, press the knee lifter to the right.

Keep the knee lifter pressed to the right.

→ The presser foot is raised.

Release the knee lifter.

■ Installing the knee lifter

Turn off the machine.

Insert the knee lifter into the mounting slot on the front

of the machine in the lower-right corner.

Align the tabs on the knee lifter with the notches in the mounting slot, and then insert the knee lifter as far as possible.

→ The presser foot is lowered.

• While sewing, keep your knee away from the knee lifter. If the knee lifter is pressed while the machine is operating, the needle may break or the machine may be damaged.

B-46

Stitch Setting Chart

Memo

Note

Stitch Setting Chart

Applications, stitch lengths and widths and whether the twin needle can be used are listed for utility stitches in the following table.

• The stitches shown in the table below may differ slightly from the stitch patterns displayed in the LCD.

For free motion quilting, use free motion open toe quilting foot “O”.

For free motion quilting, use free motion quilting foot “C” (sold separately with some models) or free motion open toe quilting foot “O”.

When the Automatic reverse/reinforcement key is activated, the stitch will begin with reinforcement stitch. If “Reinforcement Priority” on page 3 of the settings screen is also set to “ON”, the machine will sew reinforcement stitches at the end of stitching and then stop.

• Do not sew reverse stitching when using the walking foot.

Stitch

number

1-01

1-02

1-03

1-04

1-05

1-06

1-07

1-08

1-09

1-10

1-11

1-12

1-13

1-14

Stitch name

Straight stitch (Left)

Straight stitch (Middle)

Triple stretch stitch

Stem stitch

Decorative stitch

Basting stitch

Zigzag stitch

Zigzag stitch (Right)

Zigzag stitch (Left)

2 steps elastic zigzag stitch

3 steps elastic zigzag stitch

Presser

foot

Stitch width

Applications

General sewing, gather, pintuck, etc.

General sewing for reinforcement and decorative topstitching Reinforced stitching, sewing and decorative applications Decorative stitching, top stitching

Basting 0.0 (0)

For overcasting, mending. 3.5 (1/8)

Start from right needle position, zigzag sew at left. Start from left needle position, zigzag sew at right. Overcasting (medium weight and stretch fabrics), tape and elastic Overcasting (medium, heavyweight and stretch fabrics), tape and elastic

[mm (inch)]

Auto.

Manual

0.0 (0)

0.0 - 7.0 (0 - 1/4)

0.0 (0)

0.0 - 7.0 (0 - 1/4)

3.5 (1/8)

0.0 - 7.0 (0 - 1/4)

3.5 (1/8)

0.0 - 7.0 (0 - 1/4)

0.0 (0)

0.0 - 7.0 (0 - 1/4)

1.0 (1/16)

0.0 - 7.0 (0 - 1/4)

0.0 (0)

0.0 - 7.0 (0 - 1/4)

3.5 (1/8)

2.5 - 5.0

(3/32 - 3/16)

3.5 (1/8)

2.5 - 5.0

(3/32 - 3/16)

5.0 (3/16)

0.0 - 7.0 (0 - 1/4)

5.0 (3/16)

0.0 - 7.0 (0 - 1/4)

Stitch length

[mm (inch)]

Auto.

Manual

2.5 (3/32)

0.2 - 5.0

(1/64 - 3/16)

2.5 (3/32)

0.2 - 5.0

(1/64 - 3/16)

2.5 (3/32)

0.2 - 5.0

(1/64 - 3/16)

2.5 (3/32)

0.2 - 5.0

(1/64 - 3/16)

2.5 (3/32)

0.4 - 5.0

(1/64 - 3/16)

2.5 (3/32)

0.4 - 5.0

(1/64 - 3/16)

2.5 (3/32)

0.4 - 5.0

(1/64 - 3/16)

20 (3/4)

5 - 30

(3/16 - 1-3/16)

1.4 (1/16)

0.0 - 5.0

(0 - 3/16)

1.4 (1/16)

0.0 - 5.0

(0 - 3/16)

1.4 (1/16)

0.3 - 5.0

(1/64 - 3/16)

1.4 (1/16)

0.3 - 5.0

(1/64 - 3/16)

1.0 (1/16)

0.2 - 5.0

(1/64 - 3/16)

1.0 (1/16)

0.2 - 5.0

(1/64 - 3/16)

Twin

needle

OK ( J )

Reverse/

Reinforce-

ment

stitching

Reverse NO

Reverse

Reverse NO

Reinforce-

ment

Reinforce-

ment

Reinforce-

ment

Reinforce-

ment

Reinforce-

ment

Reverse NO

Reverse

STARTING TO SEW

Walking

foot

Basic operations B-47

Stitch Setting Chart

Stitch

number

1-15

1-16

1-17

1-18

1-19

1-20

1-21

1-22

1-23

1-24

1-25

1-26

1-27

1-28

1-29

1-30

1-31

1-32

1-33

1-34

1-35

2-01

Stitch name

Presser

foot

Overcasting stitch G

Overcasting stitch

Single diamond

overcast stitch Single diamond

overcast stitch With side cutter S

With side cutter S

Piecing stitch (Right)

Piecing stitch (Middle)

Piecing stitch (Left)

Hand-look quilting stitch

Quilting appliqué

zigzag stitch Quilting appliqué stitch

Quilting stippling stitch

Blind hem stitch R

Applications

Reinforcing of light and medium weight fabrics

Reinforcing of heavyweight fabric

Reinforcing of medium, heavyweight and easily

friable fabrics or decorative stitching. Reinforced seaming of

stretch fabric

Reinforcing of medium stretch fabric and

heavyweight fabric, decorative stitching Reinforcement of stretch

fabric or decorative stitching Stretch knit seam 5.0 (3/16)

Reinforcement and

seaming stretch fabric

Reinforcement of stretch

fabric

Straight stitch while cutting fabrics

Zigzag stitch while cutting fabrics

Overcasting stitch while cutting fabrics

Piecework/patchwork 6.5

mm (approx. 1/4 inch) right seam allowance Piecework/patchwork

Piecework/patchwork 6.5

mm (approx. 1/4 inch) left seam allowance Quilting stitch made to

look like hand quilting stitch Zigzag stitch for quilting

and sewing on appliqué quilt pieces Quilting stitch for invisible

appliqué or attaching binding Background quilting 7.0 (1/4)

Hemming woven fabrics

Stitch width

[mm (inch)]

Auto.

Manual

3.5 (1/8)

2.5 - 5.0

(3/32 - 3/16)

5.0 (3/16)

2.5 - 5.0

(3/32 - 3/16)

5.0 (3/16)

3.5 - 5.0

(1/8 - 3/16)

5.0 (3/16)

0.0 - 7.0 (0 - 1/4)

5.0 (3/16)

0.0 - 7.0 (0 - 1/4)

4.0 (3/16)

0.0 - 7.0 (0 - 1/4)

6.0 (15/64)

0.0 - 7.0 (0 - 1/4)

6.0 (15/64)

0.0 - 7.0 (0 - 1/4)

0.0 (0)

0.0 - 2.5

(0 - 3/32)

3.5 (1/8)

3.5 - 5.0

(1/8 - 3/16)

3.5 (1/8)

3.5 - 5.0

(1/8 - 3/16)

5.0 (3/16)

3.5 - 5.0

(1/8 - 3/16)

5.0 (3/16)

3.5 - 5.0

(1/8 - 3/16)

5.5 (7/32)

0.0 - 7.0 (0 - 1/4)

—

1.5 (1/16)

0.0 - 7.0 (0 - 1/4)

0.0 (0)

0.0 - 7.0 (0 - 1/4)

3.5 (1/8)

0.0 - 7.0 (0 - 1/4)

1.5 (1/16)

0.0 - 7.0 (0 - 1/4)

3← - →3

Stitch length

[mm (inch)]

Auto.

Manual

2.0 (1/16)

0.4 - 5.0

(1/64 - 3/16)

2.5 (3/32)

0.4 - 5.0

(1/64 - 3/16)

2.5 (3/32)

0.4 - 5.0

(1/64 - 3/16)

2.5 (3/32)

0.4 - 5.0

(1/64 - 3/16)

2.5 (3/32)

0.4 - 5.0

(1/64 - 3/16)

4.0 (3/16)

0.4 - 5.0

(1/64 - 3/16)

4.0 (3/16)

0.4 - 5.0

(1/64 - 3/16)

3.0 (1/8)

0.4 - 5.0

(1/64 - 3/16)

1.8 (1/16)

0.4 - 5.0

(1/64 - 3/16)

2.5 (3/32)

0.2 - 5.0

(1/64 - 3/16)

1.4 (1/16)

0.0 - 5.0

(0 - 3/16)

2.0 (1/16)

0.4 - 5.0

(1/64 - 3/16)

2.5 (3/32)

0.4 - 5.0

(1/64 - 3/16)

2.5 (3/32)

0.4 - 5.0

(1/64 - 3/16)

2.0 (1/16)

0.2 - 5.0

(1/64 - 3/16)

2.0 (1/16)

0.2 - 5.0

(1/64 - 3/16)

2.0 (1/16)

0.2 - 5.0

(1/64 - 3/16)

2.5 (3/32)

0.4 - 5.0

(1/64 - 3/16)

1.4 (1/16)

0.0 - 5.0

(0 - 3/16)

1.8 (1/16)

0.4 - 5.0

(1/64 - 3/16)

1.6 (1/16)

0.4 - 5.0

(1/64 - 3/16)

2.0 (1/16)

0.4 - 5.0

(1/64 - 3/16)

Twin

needle

( J )

Reverse/

Reinforce-

ment

stitching

Reinforce-

ment

Reinforce-

ment

Reinforce-

ment

Reinforce-

ment

Reinforce-

ment

Reinforce-

ment

Reinforce-

ment

Reinforce-

ment

Reinforce-

ment

Reinforce-

ment

Reinforce-

ment

Reinforce-

ment

Reinforce-

ment

Reinforce-

ment

Reverse

Reinforce-

ment

Reverse

Reinforce-

ment

Reinforce-

ment

Reinforce-

ment

Walking

foot

B-48

Stitch Setting Chart

Stitch

number

2-02

2-03

2-04

2-05

2-06

2-07

2-08

2-09

2-10

2-11

2-12

2-13

2-14

2-15

2-16

2-17

2-18

2-19

3-01

3-02

3-03

3-04

Stitch name

Blind hem stretch stitch R

Blanket stitch

Shell tuck edge stitch

Satin scallop stitch

Scallop stitch

Patch work jo in stitch

Patchwork double overlock stitch Couching stitch

Smocking stitch

Feather st itch

Fagoting cross stitch

Tap e a tt ac hi ng stitch

Ladder stitch

Rick-rack stitch

Decorative stitch

Serpentine stitch

Decorative stitch

Decorative stippling stitch

Hemstitching

Hemstitching zigzag

Hemstitching

Presser

foot

Applications

Hemming stretch fabric

Appliqués, decorative

blanket stitch

Shell tuck edge finish on

fabrics

Decorating collar of

blouse, edge of handkerchief Decorating collar of

blouse, edge of handkerchief Patchwork stitches ,

decorative stitching

Patchwork stitches ,

decorative stitching

Decorative stitching,

attaching cord and

couching Smocking, decorative

stitching

Fagoting, decorative

stitching

Fagoting, bridging and

decorative stitching

Attaching tape to seam in

stretch fabric

Decorative stitching 4.0 (3/16)

Decorative top stitching 4.0 (3/16)

Decorative stitching 5.5 (7/32)

Decorative stitching and

attaching elastic

Decorative stitching and

appliqué

Decorative stitching 7.0 (1/4)

Decorative hems, triple

straight at left

Decorative hems, triple

straight at center

Decorative hems, top

stitching

Decorative hems, lace

attaching pin stitch

Stitch width

[mm (inch)]

Auto.

Manual

3← - →3

3.5 (1/8)

0.0 - 7.0 (0 - 1/4)

4.0 (3/16)

0.0 - 7.0 (0 - 1/4)

5.0 (3/16)

0.0 - 7.0 (0 - 1/4)

7.0 (1/4)

0.0 - 7.0 (0 - 1/4)

4.0 (3/16)

0.0 - 7.0 (0 - 1/4)

5.0 (3/16)

0.0 - 7.0 (0 - 1/4)

5.0 (3/16)

0.0 - 7.0 (0 - 1/4)

5.0 (3/16)

0.0 - 7.0 (0 - 1/4)

5.0 (3/16)

0.0 - 7.0 (0 - 1/4)

5.0 (3/16)

0.0 - 7.0 (0 - 1/4)

4.0 (3/16)

0.0 - 7.0 (0 - 1/4)

5.0 (3/16)

0.0 - 7.0 (0 - 1/4)

6.0 (15/64)

0.0 - 7.0 (0 - 1/4)

1.0 (1/16)

0.0 - 7.0 (0 - 1/4)

3.5 (1/8)

0.0 - 7.0 (0 - 1/4)

6.0 (15/64)

0.0 - 7.0 (0 - 1/4)

3.5 (1/8)

0.0 - 7.0 (0 - 1/4)

Stitch length

[mm (inch)]

Auto.

Manual

2.0 (1/16)

0.4 - 5.0

(1/64 - 3/16)

2.5 (3/32)

0.4 - 5.0

(1/64 - 3/16)

2.5 (3/32)

0.2 - 5.0

(1/64 - 3/16)

0.5 (1/32)

0.1 - 5.0

(1/64 - 3/16)

1.4 (1/16)

0.4 - 5.0

(1/64 - 3/16)

1.2 (1/16)

0.2 - 5.0

(1/64 - 3/16)

2.5 (3/32)

0.4 - 5.0

(1/64 - 3/16)

1.2 (1/16)

0.2 - 5.0

(1/64 - 3/16)

1.6 (1/16)

0.4 - 5.0

(1/64 - 3/16)

2.5 (3/32)

0.4 - 5.0

(1/64 - 3/16)

2.5 (3/32)

0.4 - 5.0

(1/64 - 3/16)

1.0 (1/16)

0.2 - 5.0

(1/64 - 3/16)

3.0 (1/8)

0.4 - 5.0

(1/64 - 3/16)

2.5 (3/32)

0.4 - 5.0

(1/64 - 3/16)

1.6 (1/16)

0.4 - 5.0

(1/64 - 3/16)

1.0 (1/16)

0.2 - 5.0

(1/64 - 3/16)

1.0 (1/16)

0.2 - 5.0

(1/64 - 3/16)

1.6 (1/16)

0.4 - 5.0

(1/64 - 3/16)

2.5 (3/32)

0.4 - 5.0

(1/64 - 3/16)

2.5 (3/32)

0.4 - 5.0

(1/64 - 3/16)

3.0 (1/8)

0.4 - 5.0

(1/64 - 3/16)

2.5 (3/32)

0.4 - 5.0

(1/64 - 3/16)

Twin

needle

OK ( J )

Reverse/

Reinforce-

ment

stitching

Reinforce-

ment

Reinforce-

ment

Reinforce-

ment

Reinforce-

ment

Reinforce-

ment

Reinforce-

ment

Reinforce-

ment

Reinforce-

ment

Reinforce-

ment

Reinforce-

ment

Reinforce-

ment

Reinforce-

ment

Reinforce-

ment

Reinforce-

ment

Reinforce-

ment

Reinforce-

ment

Reinforce-

ment

Reinforce-

ment

Reinforce-

ment

Reinforce-

ment

Reinforce-

ment

Reinforce-

ment

Walking

foot

STARTING TO SEW

Basic operations B-49

Stitch Setting Chart

Stitch

number

3-05

3-06

3-07

3-08

3-09

3-10

3-11

3-12

3-13

3-14

3-15

3-16

3-17

3-18

3-19

3-20

3-21

3-22

4-01

4-02

4-03

Stitch name

Hemstitching

Honeycomb stitch

Hemstitching

Narrow rounded buttonhole stitch Tapered round ended buttonhole stitch Round ended buttonhole stitch

Presser

foot

Stitch width

Applications

[mm (inch)]

Auto.

Manual

Decorative hems 3.0 (1/8)

0.0 - 7.0 (0 - 1/4)

Decorative hems, daisy stitch

6.0 (15/64)

0.0 - 7.0 (0 - 1/4)

Heirloom, decorative hems

5.0 (3/16)

0.0 - 7.0 (0 - 1/4)

Heirloom, decorative hems

5.0 (3/16)

0.0 - 7.0 (0 - 1/4)

Heirloom, decorative hems

5.0 (3/16)

0.0 - 7.0 (0 - 1/4)

Heirloom, decorative hems

5.0 (3/16)

0.0 - 7.0 (0 - 1/4)

Heirloom, decorative hems

4.0 (3/16)

0.0 - 7.0 (0 - 1/4)

Heirloom, decorative hems

5.0 (3/16)

0.0 - 7.0 (0 - 1/4)

Heirloom, decorative hems

6.0 (15/64)

0.0 - 7.0 (0 - 1/4)

Heirloom, decorative hems

6.0 (15/64)

0.0 - 7.0 (0 - 1/4)

Heirloom, decorative hems

6.0 (15/64)

0.0 - 7.0 (0 - 1/4)

Heirloom, decorative hems

6.0 (15/64)

0.0 - 7.0 (0 - 1/4)

Heirloom, decorative hems

4.0 (3/16)

0.0 - 7.0 (0 - 1/4)

Heirloom, decorative hems

5.0 (3/16)

0.0 - 7.0 (0 - 1/4)

Decorative hems and bridging stitch

6.0 (15/64)

0.0 - 7.0 (0 - 1/4)

Decorative hems. Fagoting, attaching ribbon

5.0 (3/16)

0.0 - 7.0 (0 - 1/4)

Decorative hems, smocking

6.0 (15/64)

0.0 - 7.0 (0 - 1/4)

Decorative hems, smocking

5.0 (3/16)

0.0 - 7.0 (0 - 1/4)

Buttonhole on light to medium weight fabrics

5.0 (3/16)

3.0 - 5.0

(1/8 - 3/16)

Reinforced waist tapered buttonholes

5.0 (3/16)

3.0 - 5.0

(1/8 - 3/16)

Buttonholes with vertical bar tack in heavyweight fabrics

5.0 (3/16)

3.0 - 5.0

(1/8 - 3/16)

Stitch length

[mm (inch)]

Auto.

Manual

3.5 (1/8)

0.4 - 5.0

(1/64 - 3/16)

3.0 (1/8)

0.4 - 5.0

(1/64 - 3/16)

3.5 (1/8)

0.4 - 5.0

(1/64 - 3/16)

3.5 (1/8)

0.4 - 5.0

(1/64 - 3/16)

3.5 (1/8)

0.4 - 5.0

(1/64 - 3/16)

4.0 (3/16)

0.4 - 5.0

(1/64 - 3/16)

2.5 (3/32)

0.4 - 5.0

(1/64 - 3/16)

2.5 (3/32)

0.4 - 5.0

(1/64 - 3/16)

3.5 (1/8)

0.4 - 5.0

(1/64 - 3/16)

1.6 (1/16)

0.4 - 5.0

(1/64 - 3/16)

3.0 (1/8)

0.4 - 5.0

(1/64 - 3/16)

4.0 (3/16)

0.4 - 5.0

(1/64 - 3/16)

2.5 (3/32)

0.4 - 5.0

(1/64 - 3/16)

2.0 (1/16)

0.4 - 5.0

(1/64 - 3/16)

2.0 (1/16)

0.4 - 5.0

(1/64 - 3/16)

3.0 (1/8)

0.4 - 5.0

(1/64 - 3/16)

1.6 (1/16)

0.4 - 5.0

(1/64 - 3/16)

1.6 (1/16)

0.4 - 5.0

(1/64 - 3/16)

0.4 (1/64)

0.2 - 1.0

(1/64 - 1/16)

0.4 (1/64)

0.2 - 1.0

(1/64 - 1/16)

0.4 (1/64)

0.2 - 1.0

(1/64 - 1/16)

Twin

needle

( J )

Reverse/

Reinforce-

ment

stitching

Reinforce-

ment

Reinforce-

ment

Reinforce-

ment

Reinforce-

ment

Reinforce-

ment

Reinforce-

ment

Reinforce-

ment

Reinforce-

ment

Reinforce-

ment

Reinforce-

ment

Reinforce-

ment

Reinforce-

ment

Reinforce-

ment

Reinforce-

ment

Reinforce-

ment

Reinforce-

ment

Reinforce-

ment

Reinforce-

ment

Automatic

reinforce-

ment

Automatic

reinforce-

ment

Automatic

reinforce-

ment

Walking

foot

B-50

Stitch Setting Chart

Stitch

number

4-04

4-05

4-06

4-07

4-08

4-09

4-10

4-11

4-12

4-13

4-14

4-15

5-01

5-02

5-03

5-04

5-05

5-06

5-07

5-08

Stitch name

Narrow squared buttonhole stitch Stretch buttonhole stitch Heirloom buttonhole stitch Bound buttonhole stitch Keyhole buttonhole stitch

Tap er ed keyhole buttonhole stitch Keyhole buttonhole stitch

Darning stitch

Bar tack stitch

Button sewing stitch M

Eyelet stitch

Reverse (Straight stitch) Sideways to left (Straight stitch) Sideways to right (Straight stitch) Forward (Straight stitch) Sideways to left (Zigzag stitch) Sideways to right (Zigzag stitch) Forward (Zigzag stitch) N

Reverse (Zigzag stitch) N

Presser

foot

Stitch width

Applications

Buttonholes for light to medium weight fabrics

Buttonholes for stretch or

woven fabrics

Buttonholes for heirloom

and stretch fabrics

The first step in making

bound buttonholes

Buttonholes in heavyweight or thick

fabrics for larger flat buttons Buttonholes in medium to heavy weight fabrics for

larger flat buttons

Buttonholes with vertical bar tack for reinforcement

in heavyweight or thick fabrics Darning of medium weight

fabric

Darning of heavyweight

fabric

Reinforcement at opening

of pocket, etc.

Attaching buttons 3.5 (1/8)

For making eyelets, holes on belts, etc.

For attaching appliqué on

tubular pieces of fabric and mitering corners For attaching appliqué on

tubular pieces of fabric ——NO

For attaching appliqué on

tubular pieces of fabric ——NO

For attaching appliqué on

tubular pieces of fabric and mitering corners For attaching appliqué on

tubular pieces of fabric ——NO

For attaching appliqué on

tubular pieces of fabric ——NO

For attaching appliqué on tubular pieces of fabric and mitering corners For attaching appliqué on tubular pieces of fabric and mitering corners

[mm (inch)]

Auto.

Manual

5.0 (3/16)

3.0 - 5.0

(1/8 - 3/16)

6.0 (15/64)

3.0 - 6.0

(1/8 - 15/64)

6.0 (15/64)

3.0 - 6.0

(1/8 - 15/64)

5.0 (3/16)

0.0 - 6.0

(0 - 15/64)

7.0 (1/4)

3.0 - 7.0

(1/8 - 1/4)

7.0 (1/4)

3.0 - 7.0

(1/8 - 1/4)

7.0 (1/4)

3.0 - 7.0

(1/8 - 1/4)

7.0 (1/4)

2.5 - 7.0

(3/32 - 1/4)

7.0 (1/4)

2.5 - 7.0

(3/32 - 1/4)

2.0 (1/16)

1.0 - 3.0

(1/16 - 1/8)

2.5 - 4.5

(3/32 - 3/16)

7.0 (1/4)

7.0 6.0 5.0 (1/4 15/64

3/16)

——NO

Stitch length

[mm (inch)]

Auto.

Manual

0.4 (1/64)

0.2 - 1.0

(1/64 - 1/16)

1.0 (1/16)

0.5 - 2.0

(1/32 - 1/16)

1.5 (1/16)

1.0 - 3.0

(1/16 - 1/8)

2.0 (1/16)

0.2 - 4.0

(1/64 - 3/16)

0.5 (1/32)

0.3 - 1.0

(1/64 - 1/16)

0.5 (1/32)

0.3 - 1.0

(1/64 - 1/16)

0.5 (1/32)

0.3 - 1.0

(1/64 - 1/16)

2.0 (1/16)

0.4 - 2.5

(1/64 - 3/32)

2.0 (1/16)

0.4 - 2.5

(1/64 - 3/32)

0.4 (1/64)

0.3 - 1.0

(1/64 - 1/16)

— NO

7.0 (1/4)

7.0 6.0 5.0 (1/4 15/64

3/16)

Twin

needle

Reverse/

Reinforce-

ment

stitching

Automatic

reinforce-

ment

Automatic

reinforce-

ment

Automatic

reinforce-

ment

Automatic

reinforce-

ment

Automatic

reinforce-

ment

Automatic

reinforce-

ment

Automatic

reinforce-

ment

Automatic

reinforce-

ment

Automatic

reinforce-

ment

Automatic

reinforce-

ment

Automatic

reinforce-

ment

Automatic

reinforce-

ment

Reinforce-

ment

Reinforce-

ment

Reinforce-

ment

Reinforce-

ment

Reinforce-

ment

Reinforce-

ment

Reinforce-

ment

Reinforce-

ment

Walking

foot

STARTING TO SEW

Basic operations B-51

Embroidery Step by Step

Step 3

Step 1, 2

Step 5

Step 6

Step 4

Step 7, 8

Step 9

Chapter 3

EMBROIDER

Embroidery Step by Step

Follow the steps below to prepare the machine for embroidery.

STARTING TO

Step # Aim Action Page

1 Presser foot attachment Attach embroidery foot “U”. B-53

2 Checking the needle Use needle 75/11 for embroidery. * B-30

3 Embroidery unit attachment Attach the embroidery unit. B-54

4 Bobbin thread setup For the bobbin thread, wind embroidery bobbin thread and set it in place. B-21

5 Fabric preparation Attach a stabilizer material to the fabric, and hoop it in the embroidery frame. B-57

6 Embroidery frame attachment Attach the embroidery frame to the embroidery unit. B-63

7 Pattern selection Turn the main power to on, and select an embroidery pattern. B-62

8 Checking the layout Check and adjust the size and position of the embroidery. B-63

9 Embroidery thread setup Set up embroidery thread according to the pattern. B-56

* It is recommended that a 90/14 needle should be used when embroidering on heavy weight fabrics or stabilizing products (for example;

denim, puffy foam, etc.). Ball point needle (golden colored) 90/14 is not recommended for embroidery.

B-52

Attaching the Embroidery Foot

CAUTION

• Be sure to use embroidery foot when doing embroidery. Using another presser foot may cause the needle to strike the presser foot, causing the needle to bend or break and possibly cause injury.

Press (Needle position button) to raise the needle.

Press .

• When the message “OK to automatically lower the presser foot? ” appears on the LCD screen, press

to continue.

→ The screen changes, and all keys and operation

buttons are locked (except ).

Attaching the Embroidery Foot

Use the included screwdriver to loosen the presser foot

holder screw, and then remove the presser foot holder.

• The presser foot holder screw can also be loosened or tightened with the L-shaped (or disc-shaped) screwdriver.

1 Screwdriver 2 Presser foot holder 3 Presser foot holder screw

Attach embroidery foot “U” so that the presser foot

holder screw fits into the notch in the foot.

STARTING TO EMBROIDER

Raise the presser foot lever.

Press the black button on the presser foot holder to

remove the presser foot.

1 Black button 2 Presser foot holder

• Make sure that embroidery foot “U” is vertical when it is installed.

Hold the embroidery foot in place with your right

hand, and then use the included screwdriver to securely tighten the presser foot holder screw.

• Use the included screwdriver to firmly tighten the screw of the embroidery foot. If the screw is loose, the needle may strike the presser foot and possibly cause injury.

Press to unlock all keys and buttons.

Basic operations B-53

Attaching the Embroidery Unit

CAUTION

Note

CAUTION

Note

Attaching the Embroidery Unit

• Do not move the machine with the embroidery unit in place. The embroidery unit may be dropped and cause injury.

• Keep your hands and other objects away from the embroidery carriage and frame. Otherwise injury may result.

Slide the tab on the cover of the connection port in the

direction of the arrow to open the cover.

• Do not touch the connector in the embroidery

unit connector slot. The connector could be damaged, and it may cause malfunctions.

• Do not lift up on the embroidery carriage, and do

not forcefully move it. It may cause malfunctions.

Turn off the machine.

• Be sure to close the cover of the connection port when the embroidery unit is not being used.

Insert the embroidery unit connector into the

connection port, and then lightly push in the embroidery unit until it snaps into place.

1 Connection port 2 Embroidery unit connector

• Make sure that there is no gap between the embroidery unit and the machine, otherwise the embroidery pattern may not be sewn correctly. Be sure to fully insert the connector into the connection port.

• Do not push on the carriage when attaching the embroidery unit to the machine, otherwise damage to the embroidery unit may result.

• Before attaching the embroidery unit, be sure to turn off the machine. Otherwise, injuries may occur if one of the operation buttons is accidentally pressed and the machine starts sewing.

Pull the flat bed attachment off to the left.

B-54

Turn on the machine.

→ A message appears in the screen.

Be sure that no objects or hands are near the

embroidery unit and press .

→ The carriage moves to its initial position.

CAUTION

Note

Memo

CAUTION

1 Carriage

• Keep your hands and foreign objects away

from the embroidery carriage and frame when the machine is embroidering. Otherwise, injury may result.

• If the machine was not initialized correctly, the initial screen may not appear. This is not a sign of a malfunction. If this occurs, turn the machine off, then on again.

• A confirmation message to lower the framesecuring lever after the carriage moves to its initial position is displayed. Continue with pattern selection and remember to lower the framesecuring lever when the embroidery frame is attached.

Attaching the Embroidery Unit

Press , and then press .

→ The embroidery carriage moves into a position

where it can be stored.

Turn off the machine.

• Always turn off the machine before removing the embroidery unit. It may cause malfunctions if removed when the machine is turned on.

Hold the release button on the bottom left of the

embroidery unit, and slowly pull the embroidery unit to the left.

STARTING TO EMBROIDER

→ The screen for selecting the embroidery pattern type

is displayed.

• For details on the embroidery patterns, refer to “Selecting Embroidery Patterns” on page B-62.

• Utility stitches cannot be selected when the embroidery unit is attached.

■ Removing the embroidery unit

Make sure that the machine is completely stopped and follow the instructions below.

Remove the embroidery frame.

• For details on removing the embroidery frame, refer to “Attaching the Embroidery Frame” on page B-61.

1 Release button

• Do not carry the embroidery unit by holding the release button compartment.

Basic operations B-55

Embroidery Attractive Finishes

Note

Memo

CAUTION

Note

Embroidery Attractive Finishes

There are many factors that go into beautiful embroidery. Using the appropriate stabilizer (page B-57) and hooping the fabric in the frame (page B-58) are two important factors mentioned earlier. Another important point is the appropriateness of the needle and thread being used. See the explanation of threads below.

■ Thread

Upper thread Use embroidery thread intended for use with

this machine. Other embroidery threads may not yield optimum results.

Bobbin thread Use embroidery bobbin thread intended for

use with this machine.

• Before embroidering, check that there is enough thread in the bobbin. If you start to sew your embroidery project without enough thread in the bobbin, you will need to rewind the bobbin in the middle of the embroidery pattern.

• If you use threads other than those listed above, the embroidery may not sew out correctly.

■ Bobbin case

Two types of bobbin cases are included with this machine. When embroidering, use the appropriate bobbin case depending on the bobbin thread that will be used. See the explanation of bobbin case types below.

Standard bobbin case (recommended for sewing and for embroidering with included 60 weight bobbin thread)

Alternate bobbin case (for prewound or other embroidery bobbin threads such as 90 weight bobbin thread)

2 Alternate bobbin case

(no color on the screw)

The alternate bobbin case with no color on the tension adjustment screw is set with tighter tension for embroidery with different weights of bobbin threads and a variety of embroidery techniques. This bobbin case is identified with a dark colored mark on the inside of the bobbin cavity. The tension screw on this case can be adjusted if necessary. For details on adjusting thread tension, refer to “Adjusting thread tension” in the “Embroidering” section.

• See “Cleaning the Race” in the “Appendix” section for how to remove the bobbin case.

• When embroidering on large garments (especially jackets or other heavy fabrics), do not let the fabric hang over the table. Otherwise, the embroidery unit cannot move freely and the embroidery frame may strike the needle, causing the needle to bend or break and possibly cause injury. Place the fabric so that it does not hang off the table or hold the fabric to keep it from dragging.

1 Standard bobbin case

(green marking on the screw)

The standard bobbin case originally installed in the machine has a green marking on the tension adjustment screw. We recommend using the included embroidery bobbin thread with this bobbin case. Do not adjust the tension screw on this bobbin case with the green marked screw.

B-56

• Do not leave objects in the range of motion of the

embroidery frame. The frame may strike the object and cause a poor finish to the embroidery pattern.

• When embroidering on large garments

(especially jackets or other heavy fabrics), do not let the fabric hang over the table. Otherwise, the embroidery unit cannot move freely, and the pattern may not turn out as planned.

Preparing the Fabric

CAUTION

Note

CAUTION

Memo

• Use fabrics with a thickness of less than 3 mm (approx. 1/8 inch). Using fabrics thicker than 3 mm (approx. 1/8 inch) may cause the needle to break.

• When using layers with thicker batting etc., you can sew more attractive embroidery by adjusting the embroidery presser foot height in the embroidery settings screen (see below).

• In the case of thick terry cloth towels we recommend that you place a piece of water soluble stabilizer on the top surface of the towel. This will help to reduce the nap of the toweling and result in more attractive embroidery.

Preparing the Fabric

• Always use a stabilizer material for embroidery when sewing stretch fabrics, lightweight fabrics, fabrics with a coarse weave, or fabrics which cause pattern shrinkage. Otherwise, the needle may break and cause injury. Not using a stabilizer material may result in a poor finish to your project.

Use a piece of stabilizer which is larger than the

embroidery frame being used.

STARTING TO EMBROIDER

• Press . In the “Embroidery Foot Height”

display, use and in the settings screen. Adjust the presser foot height for thick or puffy fabrics.

• To increase the space between the presser foot and the needle plate, set the embroidery foot height to a larger number, 1.5 mm setting is used for most embroidery.

Attaching iron-on stabilizers (backing) to the fabric

For best results in your embroidery projects, always use stabilizer material for embroidery. Follow the package instructions for the stabilizer being used.

When using fabrics that cannot be ironed (such as terry cloth or fabrics that have loops which expand when ironed) or in places where ironing is difficult, position the stabilizer material under the fabric without fusing it, then position the fabric and stabilizer in the embroidery frame, or check with your authorized Baby Lock retailer for the correct stabilizer to use.

1 Size of the embroidery frame 2 Iron-on stabilizer (backing)

Iron the iron-on stabilizer material to the wrong side of

the fabric.

1 Fusible side of stabilizer 2 Fabric (wrong side)

• When embroidering on thin fabrics such as organdy or lawn, or on napped fabrics such as terry cloth or corduroy, use water soluble stabilizer (sold separately) for best results. The water soluble stabilizer material will dissolve completely in water, giving the project a more attractive finish.

Basic operations B-57

Preparing the Fabric

CAUTION

Note

1 2

Hooping the fabric in the embroidery frame

■ Types of embroidery frames

The types and numbers of supplied embroidery frames will differ depending on the machine model.

Extra Large

Embroidery field 26 cm × 16 cm (10 - 1/4 inches × 6 - 1/4 inches) Use when embroidering connected or combined characters or patterns, or when embroidering large patterns.

Other optional embroidery frames can be used. When choosing frames that do not appear on the screen, be sure to check the design size of the embroidery field of the optional frame. Check with your authorized Baby Lock retailer for frame compatibility. Select a frame that is slightly larger than the pattern size. Included frame options are displayed on the screen.

1 Highlighted: Can be used 2 Shaded: Cannot be used

Large

Embroidery field 18 cm × 13 cm (7 inches × 5 inches) Use when embroidering patterns between 10 cm × 10 cm (4 inches × 4 inches) and 18 cm × 13 cm (7 inches × 5 inches).

Medium (sold separately with some models)

Embroidery field 10 cm × 10 cm (4 inches × 4 inches) Use when embroidering patterns under 10 cm × 10 cm (4 inches × 4 inches).

Small (sold separately with some models)

Embroidering field 2 cm × 6 cm (1 inch × 2 - 1/2 inches) Use when embroidering small sized patterns, such as name tags.

• If you use a frame that is too small, the presser foot may strike the frame during sewing and cause injury or may damage your machine.

■ Inserting the Fabric

• If the fabric is not securely held in the embroidery

frame, the embroidery design will sew out poorly. Insert the fabric on a level surface, and gently stretch the fabric taut in the frame. Follow the steps below to insert the fabric correctly.

Lift-up and loosen the frame adjustment screw and

remove the inner frame.

1 Frame adjustment screw 2 Inner frame

B-58

Lay the fabric right side up on top of the outer frame.

Memo

Re-insert the inner frame making sure to align the inner

frame’s with the outer frame’s .

1 Inner frame’s

2 Outer frame’s 3 Frame adjustment screw

Slightly tighten the frame adjustment screw, and then

remove the slack in the fabric by gently pulling on the edges and corners. Do not loosen the screw.

Preparing the Fabric

• After stretching the fabric, lightly tapping it should produce a drum-like sound.

• Stretch the fabric from all four corners and all four edges. While stretching the fabric, tighten the frame adjustment screw.

Return the frame adjustment screw to its initial

position.

• You can use the included screwdriver when you loosen or tighten the frame adjustment screw.

STARTING TO EMBROIDER

Gently stretch the fabric taut, and tighten the frame

adjustment screw to keep the fabric from loosening after stretching.

• After stretching the fabric, make sure the fabric is taut.

• Make sure the inside and outside frames are even before you start embroidering.

■ Using the embroidery sheet

When you want to embroider the pattern in a particular place, use the embroidery sheet with the frame.

With a chalk pencil, mark the area of the fabric you

want to embroider.

1 Embroidery pattern 2 Mark

1 Outer frame 2 Inner frame 3 Fabric

Basic operations B-59

Preparing the Fabric

Place the embroidery sheet on the inner frame. Align

the guide lines on the embroidery sheet with the mark you made on the fabric.

1 Inner frame 2 Guide line

Gently stretch the fabric so there are no folds or

wrinkles, and press the inner frame into the outer frame.

Embroidering small fabrics or fabric edges

Use an embroidery stabilizer to provide extra support. After embroidering, remove the stabilizer carefully. Attach the stabilizer as shown in the following examples. We recommend using a stabilizer for embroidery.

■ Embroidering small fabrics

Use a temporary spray adhesive to adhere the small piece of fabric to the larger piece in the frame. If you do not wish to use a temporary spray adhesive, attach the stabilizer with a basting stitch.

1 Inner frame 2 Outer frame

Remove the embroidery sheet.

1 Fabric 2 Stabilizer

■ Embroidering edges or corners

Use a temporary spray adhesive to adhere the small piece of fabric to the larger piece in the frame. If you do not wish to use a temporary spray adhesive, attach the stabilizer with a basting stitch.

1 Fabric 2 Stabilizer

■ Embroidering ribbons or tape

Secure with double-sided tape or a temporary spray adhesive.

B-60

1 Ribbon or tape 2 Stabilizer

Attaching the Embroidery Frame

Note

CAUTION

• Wind and insert the bobbin before attaching the embroidery frame making sure to use the recommended bobbin thread.

Press (Presser foot lifter button) to raise the presser

foot.

Raise the frame-securing lever.

1 Frame-securing lever 2 Carriage

Attaching the Embroidery Frame

Lower the frame-securing lever to be level with the

frame to secure the embroidery frame in the embroidery frame holder.

• If the frame-securing lever is not lowered, the following message appears. You cannot start sewing until you lower the frame-securing lever.

STARTING TO EMBROIDER

Align the embroidery frame guide with the right edge

of the embroidery frame holder.

1 Embroidery frame holder 2 Embroidery frame guide

Slide the embroidery frame into the holder, making

sure to align the embroidery frame’s arrow mark with the one on holder.

■ Removing the embroidery frame

Press (Presser foot lifter button) to raise the presser

foot.

Raise the frame-securing lever.

Pull the embroidery frame toward you.

1 Arrow mark

Basic operations B-61

Selecting Embroidery Patterns

The patterns stored in the machine are intended for private use only. Any public or commercial use of copyrighted patterns is an infringement of copyright law and is strictly prohibited.

Embroidery pattern types

There are many character and decorative embroidery patterns stored in the machine's memory (see the “Embroidery Design Guide” for a full summary of patterns in the machine's memory). You can also use patterns from USB flash drive (sold separately).

Press or to display the desired pattern on the

screen. Press 4 times in this procedure.

1 Baby Lock “Exclusives” 2 Embroidery patterns 3 Floral alphabet patterns 4 Character patterns 5 Frame patterns 6 Press this key to position the embroidery unit for storage 7 Patterns saved in the machine's memory 8 Patterns saved in USB flash drive

Selecting an embroidery pattern

Select a simple pattern built-in your machine and embroider for testing purposes. You can try various selection of patterns and pattern editing in the “Embroidering” section.

Press in the pattern type selection screen.

• Once the machine has finished the initialization and the carriage has moved to the start position, the pattern type selection screen will display. If another

screen is displayed, press to display the screen below.

Press , and then .

→ Pattern editing screen appears.

Press .

• For details on pattern editing screen, refer to “Editing Patterns” in the “Embroidering” section.

→ Embroidery settings screen appears.

Press .

• For details on embroidery settings screen, refer to “Editing Patterns” in the “Embroidering” section.

• Confirm the pattern position to be sewn, referring to “Confirming the Pattern Position” on page B-63.

B-62

→ Embroidering screen appears.

Confirming the Pattern Position

Memo

Note

The pattern is normally positioned in the center of the embroidery frame. If the pattern needs to be repositioned for better placement on the garment, you can check the layout before starting embroidery.

Checking the pattern position

The embroidery frame moves and shows the pattern position. Watch the frame closely to make sure the pattern will be sewn in the right place.

Press on the embroidery settings screen.

Confirming the Pattern Position

• Needle should be in the raised position before pressing otherwise the following error message will appear “The needle is down. Press the needle position button to raise the needle.” When needle is raised this message will then disappear.

Press .

Previewing the selected pattern

Press .

STARTING TO EMBROIDER

From , press the key for the position that you

want to check.

1 Selected position

→ The needle will move to the selected position on the

pattern.

• To see the entire embroidering area, press . The embroidery frame moves and shows the embroidery area.

→ An image of the pattern as it will be embroidered

appears.

Press to select the frame used in the

preview.

• Frames displayed in light gray cannot be selected.

• Press to enlarge the image of the pattern.

• The pattern can be sewn as it appears in the following display.

■ Frame sizes displayed on screen

Display Frame type and embroidering area

Extra large embroidery frame

26 cm × 16 cm (10-1/4 inches × 6-1/4 inches)

Large embroidery frame

18 cm × 13 cm (7 inches × 5 inches)

Medium embroidery frame (sold separately with some models)

10 cm × 10 cm (4 inches × 4 inches)

Small embroidery frame (sold separately with some models)

2 cm × 6 cm (1 inch × 2-1/2 inches)

Press to return to the original screen.

Basic operations B-63

Embroidering

Note

CAUTION

Embroidering

After the preparations are done, you can try embroidering. This section describes the steps for embroidering and appliquéing.

Embroidering a pattern

Embroidery patterns are embroidered with a change of thread after each color.

Prepare embroidery thread of the color shown on the

screen.

1 Embroidery color order

• The thread color number set displayed for the thread colors can be changed. Press , and then change

the setting in the settings screen. For details, refer to “Changing the thread color display” on page B-65.

Lower the presser foot, then press the “Start/Stop”

button to start embroidering. After 5-6 stitches, press the “Start/Stop” button again to stop the machine.

Trim the excess thread at the end of the seam. If the

end of the seam is under the presser foot, raise the presser foot, then trim the excess thread.

Set the embroidery thread, and thread the needle.

• Refer to “Threading the upper thread” on page B-24 and “Threading the needle” on page B-26.

• Before using the needle threader, be sure to lower the presser foot.

Pass the thread through the embroidery foot hole, and

hold it lightly in your left hand.

Give the thread a little slack.

• If the thread is left at the beginning of the stitching, it may be sewn over as you continue embroidering the pattern, making it very difficult to deal with the thread after the pattern is finished. Trim the thread at the beginning.

Press the “Start/Stop” button to start embroidering.

→ Stitching stops automatically with reinforcement after

one color has been completed. When automatic thread cutting is set, the thread is cut.

• If the thread is pulled too tight, the needle may break or bend.

• Do not let hands or objects hit the carriage while sewing. The pattern may misalign.

B-64

Embroidering

Memo

Remove the thread for the first color from the

machine. Thread the machine with the next color.

Repeat the same steps for embroidering the remaining

colors.

→ When the last color is sewn, the message informing

that the embroidering is finished will appear on the

display. Press , and the display will return to the initial screen.

• For the automatic thread cutting setting, refer to “Using the automatic thread cutting function (END COLOR TRIM)” in the “Embroidering” section.

Cut the excess thread jumps within the color.

Thread color name

Thread number

When the thread number “#123” is displayed, use

or to select from six embroidery thread brands

pictured below.

STARTING TO EMBROIDER

Changing the thread color display

You can display the name of the thread colors or embroidery thread number.

• Colors on the screen may vary slightly from actual spool colors.

Press .

Use or on operation panel to display the thread

color selections.

Use or to select the name of the thread colors

or the embroidery thread number.

Embroidery (polyester thread)

Country (cotton thread)*

Madeira Poly (polyester thread)

Madeira Rayon

Sulky

Robison-Anton (polyester thread)

* Depending on the country or area, cotton-like polyester

thread is sold.

Press .

Basic operations B-65

Embroidering

B-66

Sewing

CAUTION

This section describes procedures for using the various utility stitches as well as other functions. It provides details on basic sewing in addition to the more expressive features of the machine, such as sewing tubular pieces and buttonholes. Page number starts with “S” in this section.

Chapter1 SEWING ATTRACTIVE FINISHES......................... S-2

Chapter2 UTILITY STITCHES................................................... S-6

• Before replacing the presser foot, be sure to press (Presser foot/Needle exchange key) on the operation panel to lock all keys and buttons, otherwise injuries may occur if the “Start/Stop” button or any other button is pressed and the machine starts. For details on changing the presser foot, refer to “Replacing the Presser Foot” in the “Basic operations” section.

Sewing Tips

Chapter 1

SEWING ATTRACTIVE FINISHES

Sewing Tips

Trial sewing

After you have set up the machine with the thread and needle appropriate for the type of fabric being sewn, the machine automatically sets the stitch length and width for the stitch that is selected. However, a trial piece of fabric should be sewn since, depending on the type of fabric and stitching being sewn, the desired results may not be achieved.

For the trial sewing, use a piece of fabric and thread that are the same as those used for your project, and check the thread tension and stitch length and width. Since the results differ depending on the type of stitching and the number of layers of fabric sewn, perform the trial sewing under the same conditions that will be used with your project.

Changing the sewing direction

Sewing curves

Stop sewing, and then slightly change the sewing direction to sew around the curve. For details on sewing with an even seam allowance, refer to “Sewing an even seam allowance” on page S-3.

When sewing along a curve while using a zigzag stitch, select a shorter stitch length in order to obtain a finer stitch.

When the stitching reaches a corner, stop the machine.

Leave the needle lowered (in the fabric). If the needle

remains up when the machine stops sewing, press (Needle position button) to lower the needle.

Raise the presser foot lever, and then turn the fabric.

Turn the fabric using the needle as a pivot.

Lower the presser foot lever and continue sewing.

Sewing cylindrical pieces

Removing the flat bed attachment allows for free-arm sewing, making it easier to sew cylindrical pieces such as sleeve cuffs and pant legs.

Pull the flat bed attachment off to the left.

Slide the part that you wish to sew onto the free arm,

and then sew from the top.

S-2

When you are finished with free arm sewing, install the

flat bed attachment back in its original position.

Sewing Tips

Sewing an even seam allowance

To sew an even seam, start sewing so that the seam allowance is to the right of the presser foot, and the edge of the fabric is aligned with either the right edge of the presser foot or a marking on the needle plate.

■ Aligning the fabric with the presser foot

Sew while keeping the right edge of the presser foot a fixed distance from the edge of the fabric.

1 Seam 2 Presser foot

■ Aligning the fabric with the stitch guide foot (sold separately with some models)

Sew while keeping the right edge of the fabric aligned with a desired position of markings on the stitch guide foot.

■ Aligning the fabric with a needle plate marking

The markings on the needle plate show the distance from the needle position of a seam sewn with the straight stitch (left needle position). Sew while keeping the edge of the fabric aligned with a marking on the needle plate. The distance between the markings in the upper scale is 1/8 inch (3 mm) and the distance between the markings in the grid is 5 mm (3/16 inch).

For stitches with a left needle position (Stitch width: 0.0 mm)

SEWING ATTRACTIVE FINISHES

1 Seam 2 Presser foot 3 Centimeters 4 Inches 5 Needle plate 6 1.6 cm (5/8 inch)

1 Seam 2 Stitch guide foot 3 Markings

Sewing S-3

Sewing Various Fabrics

Memo

CAUTION

Sewing Various Fabrics

Sewing thick fabrics

■ If the fabric does not fit under the presser foot

If the fabric does not fit easily under the presser foot, raise the presser foot lever even higher to bring the presser foot to its highest position.

■ If thick seams are being sewn and the fabric does not feed at the beginning of stitching

The fabric may not feed when thick seams are being sewn and the presser foot is not level, as shown below. In this case, use the presser foot locking pin (black button on the left side of zigzag foot “J” so that the presser foot remains level while sewing, allowing the fabric to be fed smoothly.

Release the presser foot locking pin (black button).

→ The presser foot remains level, allowing the fabric to

be fed.

→ After the seam is sewn, the presser foot will return to

its original angle.

• You may find adjusting the “Presser Foot Pressure” in the settings screen helpful on some thick fabrics.

• (For models equipped with Automatic Fabric Sensor System) When “Automatic Fabric Sensor System” in the settings screen is set to “ON”, the thickness of the fabric is automatically detected by the internal sensor so the fabric can be fed smoothly for best sewing results. For details on the automatic fabric sensor system, refer to “Automatic Fabric Sensor System (Automatic presser foot pressure)” in the “Basic operations” section.

1 Sewing direction

Raise the presser foot lever.

Align the beginning of stitching, and then position the

fabric.

While holding zigzag foot “J” level, hold the presser

foot locking pin (black button on the left side) pressed in, and lower the presser foot lever.

1 Presser foot holding pin (black button)

• If fabric more than 6 mm (15/64 inch) thick is sewn or if the fabric is pushed with too much force, the needle may bend or break.

Sewing thin fabrics

When sewing thin fabrics, the stitching may become misaligned or the fabric may not feed correctly. Move the needle (be sure to use a fine needle) to the furthest left or right hand position so that the fabric does not get pulled down into the feed dog area. If this occurs, place thin paper or stabilizer material under the fabric and sew it together with the fabric. When you have finished sewing, tear off any excess paper.

1 Stabilizer material or paper

S-4

Sewing Various Fabrics

Note

CAUTION

Note

Sewing stretch fabrics

First, baste the pieces of fabric together, and then sew without stretching the fabric.

1 Basting

For best results when sewing on knit fabrics use the stretch stitches. Also be sure to use a needle for knits. The recommended stitches and their stitch numbers are indicated below.

Stitch

BLMAV 1-05 1-06 1-13 1-14 2-13

BLMSP/BLMLR

BL210A

* Stitch patterns can be selected directly by pressing the

numeric keys on the machine during preset utility stitch mode. Refer to “Basic operations” section.

* 06*

Sewing hook-and-loop fastener tape

• Use only the adhesive-free hook-and-loop

fastener tape which is designed for sewing. When the glue adheres to the needle or the bobbin hook race, it may cause malfunction.

• If the hook-and-loop fastener tape is sewn with

the thin needle (65/9-75/11), the needle may bend or break.

• Before sewing, baste together the fabric and the hook-and-loop fastener tape.

Make sure that the needle passes through the hook-and-loop fastener tape by turning the handwheel and lower the needle into the hook-and-loop fastener tape before sewing. And then, sew the edge of the hook-and-loop fastener tape at a slow speed.

If the needle does not pass through the hook-and-loop fastener tape, replace the needle with the needle size for thicker fabrics. For details, refer to “Fabric/thread/needle combinations” in the “Basic operations” section.

SEWING ATTRACTIVE FINISHES

Sewing leathers or vinyl fabrics

When sewing fabrics that may stick to the presser foot such as leathers or coated fabrics, change the presser foot to the non stick foot*. The walking foot* is also suitable for sewing some leathers or vinyl fabrics.

* Sold separately with some models.

1 Leather

• The walking foot can only be used with straight or zigzag stitch patterns with reinforcement stitches. For details, refer to “Stitch Setting Chart” in the “Basic operations” section.

• When using the walking foot, test sew on a scrap piece of leather or vinyl that is to be used in project to make sure foot does not leave any marks.

1 Edge of the hook-and-loop fastener tape

Sewing S-5

Basic Stitching

Chapter 2

UTILITY STITCHES

Basic Stitching

Straight stitches are used for sewing plain seams.

• Using the table below, refer to “Using the utility stitch tables in the “Sewing” section” in the “Basic operations” section.

Stitch name Stitch

Basting stitch 1-08 08 07

Straight stitch (Left)

Straight stitch (Middle) 1-03

Straight stitch (Middle) 1-04

BLMAV

Stitch number

1-01

1-02

BLMSP/BLMLR

* 01*

* 02*

* 03*

04* 04*

Basic stitching

Baste or pin together the fabric pieces.

Attach zigzag foot “J”.

BL210A

Presser foot

Select a stitch.

Lower the needle into the fabric at the beginning of the

stitching.

Lower the presser foot lever, and then start sewing.

When sewing is finished, cut the thread.

Triple stretch stitch 1-05

* Stitch patterns can be selected directly by pressing the

numeric keys on the machine during preset utility stitch mode. Refer to “Basic operations” section.

* 05*

Basting

Sew basting with a stitch length between 5 mm (3/16 inch) and 30 mm (1-3/16 inches).

Attach zigzag foot “J”.

Select stitch .

Start sewing.

S-6

■ Changing the needle position

0.0 2.0 5.5 7.0

34 5

The needle position used as the baseline is different for the straight stitch (left needle position) and the straight stitch (center needle position).

1 Straight stitch (left needle position) 2 Straight stitch (center needle position)

When the stitch width of the straight stitch (left needle position) is set to its standard setting (0.0 mm), the distance from the needle position to the right side of the presser foot is 12 mm (1/2 inch). If the stitch width is changed (between 0 and 7.0 mm (1/4 inch)), the needle position will also change. By changing the stitch width and sewing with the right side of the presser foot aligned with the edge of the fabric, a seam allowance can be sewn with a fixed width.

Basic Stitching

UTILITY STITCHES

1 Stitch width setting 2 Distance from the needle position to the right side of the

presser foot

3 12.0 mm (1/2 inch) 4 10.0 mm (3/8 inch) 5 6.5 mm (1/4 inch) 6 5.0 mm (3/16 inch)

• For details, refer to “Setting the stitch width” in the “Basic operations” section.

Sewing S-7

Blind Hem Stitching

Memo

Blind Hem Stitching

Secure the bottoms of skirts and pants with a blind hem.

• Using the table below, refer to “Using the utility stitch tables in the “Sewing” section” in the “Basic operations” section.

Stitch name Stitch

Blind hem stitch 2-01 36 31

Blind hem stretch

stitch

BLMAV

BL210A

BLMSP/BLMLR

Stitch number

2-02 37 32

• When the size of cylindrical pieces is too small to slide onto the arm or the length is too short, the fabric will not feed and desired results may not be achieved.

Turn the skirt or pants wrong side out.

1 Wrong side of fabric 2 Right side of fabric 3 Edge of fabric 4 Bottom side

Fold the fabric along the desired edge of the hem, and

press.

1 Wrong side of fabric 2 Right side of Fabric 3 Edge of fabric

4 Desired edge of hem

Presser foot

Use a chalk to mark on the fabric about 5 mm (3/16

inch) from the edge of the fabric, and then baste it.

1 Wrong side of fabric 2 Right side of fabric 3 Edge of fabric 4 Desired edge of hem 5 5 mm (3/16 inch)

6 Basting

Fold back the fabric inside along the basting.

1 Wrong side of fabric 2 Right side of fabric 3 Edge of fabric 4 Desired edge of hem 5 5 mm (3/16 inch) 6 Basting 7 Basting point

Unfold the edge of fabric, and position the fabric with

the wrong side facing up.

1 Wrong side of fabric 2 Right side of fabric

5 2

3 Edge of fabric 4 Desired edge of hem 5 Basting point 6 Basting

Attach blind hem foot “R”.

S-8

Select or .

Remove the flat bed attachment to use the free arm.

Slide the item that you wish to sew onto the free arm,

Memo

make sure that the fabric feeds correctly, and then start sewing.

Blind Hem Stitching

• Blind hem stitches cannot be sewn if the left needle drop point does not catch the fold. If the needle catches too much of the fold, the fabric cannot be unfolded and the seam appearing on the right side of the fabric will be very large, leaving an unattractive finish. If you experience either of these cases, perform the following instructions to solve the problem.

1 Free arm

Position the fabric with the edge of the folded hem

against the guide of the presser foot, and then lower the presser foot lever.

1 Wrong side of fabric 2 Fold of hem 3 Guide

Adjust the stitch width until the needle slightly catches

the fold of the hem.

■ If the needle catches too much of the hem fold

The needle is too far to the left. Decrease the stitch width so that the needle slightly catches the fold of the hem.

 Example: Thick fabric

 Example: Normal fabric

1 Wrong side of fabric 2 Right side of fabric

UTILITY STITCHES

1 Needle drop point

When you change the needle drop point, raise the needle, and then change the stitch width.

1 Thick fabric 2 Normal fabric

Sewing S-9

Blind Hem Stitching

Note

■ If the needle does not catch the hem fold

The needle is too far to the right. Increase the stitch width so that the needle slightly catches the fold of the hem.

 Example: Thick fabric

 Example: Normal fabric

1 Wrong side of fabric 2 Right side of fabric

Sew with the fold of the hem against the presser foot

guide.

Press the “Start/Stop” button to stop sewing when you

are finished, and raise the presser foot and needle to remove the fabric by pulling it back.

• Be sure to pull the fabric backward after finished sewing. If you pull the fabric toward side or forward, the presser foot may be damaged.

Remove the basting stitching and reverse the fabric.

1 Wrong side of fabric 2 Right side of fabric

S-10

Overcasting Stitches

CAUTION

Overcasting Stitches

Sew overcasting stitches along the edges of cut fabric to prevent them from fraying.

Sewing overcasting stitches using overcasting foot “G”

• Using the table below, refer to “Using the utility stitch tables in the “Sewing” section” in the “Basic operations” section.

Stitch name Stitch

Overcasting stitch

BLMAV

BLMSP/BLMLR

Stitch number

1-15

1-17 17 15

* 13*

BL210A

Sew with the edge of the fabric against the presser foot

guide.

UTILITY STITCHES

1 Needle drop point

Presser foot

G1-16 16 14

• After the stitch width is adjusted, rotate the handwheel toward you (counterclockwise). Check that the needle does not touch the presser foot. If the needle hits the presser foot, the needle may break and cause injury.

* Stitch patterns can be selected directly by pressing the

numeric keys on the machine during preset utility stitch mode. Refer to “Basic operations” section.

Attach overcasting foot “G”.

Select a stitch.

Position the fabric with the edge of the fabric against

the guide of the presser foot, and then lower the presser foot lever.

1 Guide

1 The needle should not touch the center bar

• If the presser foot is raised to its highest level, the needle may strike the presser foot.

Press the “Start/Stop” button to stop sewing when you

are finished, and raise the presser foot and needle to remove the fabric by pulling it back.

Sewing S-11

Overcasting Stitches

Note

Sewing overcasting stitches using zigzag foot “J”

• Using the table below, refer to “Using the utility stitch tables in the “Sewing” section” in the “Basic operations” section.

1 Needle drop point

Stitch name Stitch

Zigzag stitch 1-09

Zigzag stitch (Right) 1-11 11 10

2 steps elastic zigzag

stitch

3 steps elastic zigzag

stitch

Overcasting stitch

Single diamond

overcast stitch

BLMAV

BLMSP/BLMLR

Stitch number

* 08*

1-13 13 11

1-14

1-18 18 16

1-19 19 17

1-20 20 18

1-21 21 19

1-22 22 –

1-23 23 –

* 12*

BL210A

* Stitch patterns can be selected directly by pressing the

numeric keys on the machine during preset utility stitch mode. Refer to “Basic operations” section.

Attach zigzag foot “J”.

Presser foot

Sewing overcasting stitches using the side cutter (sold separately with some models)

Using the side cutter, seam allowances can be finished while the edge of the fabric is cut off. Five utility stitches can be used to sew overcasting stitches with the side cutter.

• Using the table below, refer to “Using the utility stitch tables in the “Sewing” section” in the “Basic operations” section.

• Thread the needle manually when using the side cutter, or only attach the side cutter after

threading the needle using the needle threader.

Stitch name Stitch

With side cutter

BLMAV

BLMSP/BLMLR

Stitch number

1-24 24 20

1-25 25 21

1-26 26 22

1-27 27 23

BL210A

Presser foot

Select a stitch.

Sew along the edge of the fabric with the needle

dropping off the edge at the right.

1 Needle drop point

S-12

1-28 28 24

 Side cutter

Overcasting Stitches

Note

Memo

Remove the presser foot.

Hook the connecting fork of the side cutter onto the

needle clamp screw.

1 Connecting fork 2 Needle clamp screw

Position the side cutter so that side cutter pin is aligned

with the notch in the presser foot holder, and then slowly lower the presser foot lever.

Select a stitch.

Make a cut of about 2 cm (3/4 inch) long in the fabric

at the beginning of the stitching.

1 2 cm (3/4 inch)

Position the fabric in the side cutter.

The cut in the fabric should be positioned over the guide plate of the side cutter.

1 Guide plate

• If the fabric is not positioned correctly, the fabric will not be cut.

UTILITY STITCHES

1 Notch in presser foot holder 2 Pin

• When it is hard to set under the presser foot holder, fit the pin on the side cutter into the notch of the presser foot holder raising up the presser foot lever higher.

Raise the presser foot lever to check that the side

cutter is securely attached.

Pass the upper thread under the side cutter, and then

pull it out toward the rear of the machine.

Lower the presser foot lever, and then start sewing.

→ A seam allowance is cut while the stitching is sewn.

• If the stitching is sewn in a straight line , the seam

allowance will be about 5 mm (3/16 inch).

1 5 mm (3/16 inch)

• The side cutter can cut as much as one layer of 13-oz. denim.

• After using the side cutter, clean it by removing any lint or dust.

• If the side cutter can no longer cut fabric, use a piece of cloth to apply a small amount of oil to the cutting edge of the cutter.

Sewing S-13

Buttonhole Stitching/Button Sewing

• Using the table below, refer to “Using the utility stitch tables in the “Sewing” section” in the “Basic operations” section.

Stitch name Stitch

Narrow rounded

buttonhole stitch

BLMAV

BL210A

BLMSP/BLMLR

Stitch number

4-01 77 57

Buttonhole sewing

The maximum buttonhole length is about 28 mm (1-1/8 inches) (diameter + thickness of the button).

Buttonholes are sewn from the front of the presser foot to the back, as shown below.

Presser foot

Tapered round ended

buttonhole stitch

Round ended

buttonhole stitch

Narrow squared

buttonhole stitch

Stretch buttonhole

stitch

Heirloom buttonhole

stitch

Bound buttonhole

stitch

Keyhole buttonhole

stitch

Tapered keyhole

buttonhole stitch

Keyhole buttonhole

stitch

Button sewing stitch 4-14 90 70 M

4-02 78 58

4-03 79 59

4-04 80 60

4-05 81 61

4-06 82 62

4-07 83 63

4-08 84 64

4-09 85 65

4-10 86 66

1 Reinforcement stitching

The names of parts of buttonhole foot “A”, which is used to create buttonholes, are indicated below.

S-14

1 Button guide plate 2 Presser foot scale 3 Pin 4 Marks on buttonhole foot 5 5 mm (3/16 inch)

Buttonhole Stitching/Button Sewing

Use chalk to mark on the fabric the position and length

of the buttonhole.

1 Marks on fabric 2 Buttonhole sewing

Pull out the button guide plate of buttonhole foot “A”,

and then insert the button that will be put through the buttonhole.

Select a stitch.

Position the fabric with the front end of the buttonhole

mark aligned with the red marks on the sides of the buttonhole foot, and then lower the presser foot lever.

1 Mark on fabric (front) 2 Red marks on buttonhole foot

Pass the upper thread down through the hole in the presser foot.

• When lowering the presser foot, do not push in the front of the presser foot.

UTILITY STITCHES

■ If the button does not fit in the button guide plate

Add together the diameter and thickness of the button, and then set the button guide plate to the calculated length. (The distance between the markings on the presser foot scale is 5 mm (3/16 inch).)

1 Presser foot scale 2 Length of buttonhole (diameter + thickness of button) 3 5 mm (3/16 inch)

Example: For a button with a diameter of 15 mm (9/16 inch) and a thickness of 10 mm (3/8 inch), the button guide plate should be set to 25 mm (1 inch) on the scale.

1 Do not reduce the gap.

Pull down the buttonhole lever as far as possible.

1 Buttonhole lever

The buttonhole lever is positioned behind the bracket on the buttonhole foot.

1 Buttonhole lever 2 Bracket

1 10 mm (3/8 inch) 2 15 mm (9/16 inch)

→ The size of the buttonhole is set.

Attach buttonhole foot “A”.

Sewing S-15

Buttonhole Stitching/Button Sewing

Memo

CAUTION

Memo

Gently hold the end of the upper thread in your left

hand, and then start sewing.

→ Once sewing is completed, the machine

automatically sews reinforcement stitches, then stops.

Press (Thread cutter button) once.

Raise the presser foot, and then remove the fabric.

• If the automatic thread cutting setting was selected before sewing, the machine will automatically cut the threads at the end of the stitching. For details, refer to “Automatically cutting the thread” in the “Basic operations” section.

• When using the thread cutter on the left side of the machine or scissors to cut the threads, press

(Needle position button) to raise the needle, raise the presser foot, and then pull out the fabric before cutting the threads.

For keyhole buttonholes, use the eyelet punch to make a hole in the rounded end of the buttonhole, and then use the seam ripper to cut open the buttonhole.

1 Eyelet punch

• When using the eyelet punch, place thick paper or some other protective sheet under the fabric before punching the hole in the fabric.

• When opening the buttonhole with the seam ripper, do not place your hands in the cutting direction, otherwise injuries may result if the seam ripper slips.

• Do not use the seam ripper in any other way than how it is intended.

■ Changing the density of the stitching

Adjust the stitch length.

Raise the buttonhole lever to its original position.

Insert a pin along the inside of one bar tack at the end

of the buttonhole stitching to prevent the stitching from being cut.

1 Pin

Use the seam ripper to cut towards the pin and open

the buttonhole.

1 Seam ripper

• For details, refer to “Setting the stitch length” in the “Basic operations” section.

• If the fabric does not feed (for example, if it is too thick), decrease the density of the stitching.

■ Changing the stitch width

Adjust the stitch width.

• For details, refer to “Setting the stitch width” in the “Basic operations” section.

• Before sewing buttonholes, check the stitch length and width by sewing a trial buttonhole on a scrap piece of fabric.

S-16

■ Sewing buttonholes on stretch fabrics

When sewing buttonholes on stretch fabrics, use a gimp thread.

Buttonhole Stitching/Button Sewing

Hook the gimp thread onto the part of buttonhole foot

“A” shown in the illustration.

It fits into the grooves, and then loosely tie it.

Attach buttonhole foot “A”.

Select stitch or .

Adjust the stitch width to the thickness of the gimp

thread.

Lower the presser foot lever and the buttonhole lever,

and then start sewing.

Raise the presser foot lever, and then slide the feed dog

position switch, located at the rear of the machine on the base, to (to the left as seen from the rear of the machine).

1 Feed dog position switch (as seen from the rear of the

machine)

Attach button fitting foot “M”.

Select stitch .

• Since the end of the thread will be tied off later, do not set the machine for programmed-thread cutting.

Adjust the stitch width so that it is the same as the

distance between the holes in the button.

Place the button in the position where it will be sewn,

and lower the presser foot lever.

UTILITY STITCHES

When sewing is finished, gently pull the gimp thread to

remove any slack.

Use a handsewing needle to pull the gimp thread to the

wrong side of the fabric, and then tie it.

Button sewing

Buttons can be sewn on with the machine. Buttons with two or with four holes can be attached.

Measure the distance between the holes in the button

to be attached.

1 Button

• When attaching four-hole buttons, first sew the two holes closest to you. Then, slide the button so that the needle goes into the two holes toward the rear of the machine, and then sew them in the same way.

Sewing S-17

Buttonhole Stitching/Button Sewing

CAUTION

Memo

Turn the handwheel toward you (counterclockwise) to

check that the needle correctly goes into the two holes of the button.

If it seems as if the needle will hit the button, remeasure the distance between the holes in the button. Adjust the stitch width to the distance between the buttonholes.

• When sewing, be sure that the needle does not touch the button, otherwise the needle may bend or break.

Start sewing.

Set the sewing speed controller to the left (so that the speed will be slow).

■

Attaching a shank to a button

To sew the button with a shank, attach the button with space between it and the fabric, and then wind the thread by hand. This attaches the button securely.

Place the button into button fitting foot “M”, and then

pull the shank lever toward you.

1 Shank lever

After sewing is finished, cut the upper thread with

plenty of excess, wind it around the thread between the button and the fabric, and then tie it to the upper thread at the beginning of the stitching.

Tie together the ends of the bobbin thread at the end and at the beginning of the stitching at the wrong side of the fabric.

→ The machine automatically stops after sewing

reinforcement stitches.

• Do not press (Thread cutter button).

Use scissors to cut the upper thread and the bobbin

thread at the beginning of the stitching.

Pull the upper thread at the end of the stitching to the wrong side of the fabric, and then tie it with the bobbin thread.

When you are finished attaching the button, slide the

feed dog position switch, to (to the right as seen from the rear of the machine) and turn the handwheel to raise the feed dogs.

Cut off any excess thread.

• The feed dogs come up when you start sewing

again.

S-18

Zipper Insertion

• Using the table below, refer to “Using the utility stitch tables in the “Sewing” section” in the “Basic operations” section.

Stitch name Stitch

Straight stitch (Middle) 1-03

* Stitch patterns can be selected directly by pressing the

numeric keys on the machine during preset utility stitch mode. Refer to “Basic operations” section.

BLMAV

BLMSP/BLMLR

Stitch number

* 03*

BL210A

Presser foot

J, I

Inserting a centered zipper

Stitching is sewn on both pieces of fabric butted against each other.

Press open the seam allowance from the wrong side of

the fabric.

1 Wrong side of fabric

Align the seam with the center of the zipper, and then

baste the zipper in place.

1 Wrong side of fabric 2 Basting stitching 3 Zipper

UTILITY STITCHES

1 Right side of fabric 2 Stitching 3 End of zipper opening

Attach zigzag foot “J”.

Sew straight stitches up to the zipper opening.

With the right sides of the fabric facing each other, sew reverse stitches after reaching the zipper opening.

Using a basting stitch, continue sewing to the edge of

the fabric.

Remove about 5 cm (2 inches) from the end of the

basting on the outside.

1 Wrong side of fabric 2 Zipper basting 3 Outside basting 4 5 cm (2 inches)

Attach the presser foot holder to the right pin of zipper

foot “I”.

1 Pin on the right side 2 Needle drop point

1 Basting stitching 2 Reverse stitches 3 Wrong side of fabric 4 End of zipper opening

Sewing S-19

Zipper Insertion

CAUTION

Select stitch .

• When using zipper foot “I”, be sure to select the straight stitch (center needle position), and slowly turn the handwheel toward

counterclockwise)

(

to check that the needle

you

does not touch the presser foot. If a different stitch is selected or the needle hits the presser foot, the needle may bend or break.

Topstitch around the zipper.

Inserting a side zipper

Stitching is visible on only one piece of fabric. Use this type of zipper application for side openings and back openings.

1 Stitching 2 Right side of fabric 3 End of zipper opening

The following procedure will describe how to stitch on the left side, as shown in the illustration.

Attach zigzag foot “J”.

Sew straight stitches up to the zipper opening.

With the right sides of the fabric facing each other, sew reverse stitches after reaching the zipper opening.

1 Stitching 2 Right side of fabric 3 Basting stitching 4 End of zipper opening

• When sewing, be sure that the needle does not touch the zipper, otherwise the needle may bend or break.

Remove the basting stitching.

Using a basting stitch, continue sewing to the edge of

the fabric.

1 Basting stitching 2 Reverse stitches 3 Wrong side of fabric 4 End of zipper opening

Press open the seam allowance from the wrong side of

the fabric.

S-20

1 Wrong side of fabric

Zipper Insertion

CAUTION

Press the seam allowance so that the right side (the side

that will not be stitched) has an extra 3 mm (1/8 inch).

1 Wrong side of fabric 2 3 mm (1/8 inch)

Align the zipper teeth with the pressed edge of the

fabric having the extra 3 mm (1/8 inch), and then baste or pin the zipper in place.

1 Zipper teeth 2 Basting stitching

Sew the zipper to the piece of fabric with the extra 3

mm (1/8 inch), starting from the base of the zipper.

• When sewing, be sure that the needle does not touch the zipper, otherwise the needle may bend or break.

When you are about 5 cm (2 inches) from the end of

the zipper, stop the machine with the needle lowered (in the fabric), raise the presser foot lever.

Open the zipper and continue sewing.

UTILITY STITCHES

Attach the presser foot holder to the right pin of zipper

foot “I”.

If the stitching will be sewn on the right side, attach the presser foot holder to the left pin of the zipper foot.

1 Pin on the right side 2 Needle drop point

Select stitch .

• When using zipper foot “I”, be sure to select the straight stitch (center needle position), and slowly turn the handwheel toward you

counterclockwise)

(

to check that the needle does not touch the presser foot. If a different stitch is selected or the needle hits the presser foot, the needle may bend or break.

Close the zipper, turn over the fabric, and then baste

the other side of the zipper to the fabric.

1 Basting stitching

Attach the presser foot holder to the other pin of

zipper foot “I”.

If the presser foot holder was attached to the right pin in

g, change it to the left pin.

step

1 Pin on the left side 2 Needle drop point

Sewing S-21

Zipper Insertion

CAUTION

Topstitch around the zipper.

Sew reverse stitches at the end of the zipper opening and align the zipper teeth with the side of the presser foot.

1 Right side of fabric 2 End of zipper opening 3 Reverse stitches 4 Beginning of stitching 5 Basting stitching

• When sewing, be sure that the needle does not touch the zipper, otherwise the needle may bend or break.

When you are about 5 cm (2 inches) from the end of

the zipper, stop the machine with the needle lowered (in the fabric), and then raise the presser foot lever.

Remove the basting stitching, open the zipper, and

then continue sewing.

S-22

Zipper/piping Insertion

Note

CAUTION

Left sewing position

Right sewing position

Zipper/piping Insertion

A zipper and piping can be sewn in place.

• Using the table below, refer to “Using the utility stitch tables in the “Sewing” section” in the “Basic operations” section.

Stitch name Stitch

Straight stitch (Left) 1-01

* Stitch patterns can be selected directly by pressing the

numeric keys on the machine during preset utility stitch mode. Refer to “Basic operations” section.

**Adjustable zipper/piping foot (sold separately with some

models)

BLMAV

BLMSP/BLMLR

Stitch number

* 01***

BL210A

Inserting a centered zipper

Presser foot

Slide the presser foot over either the left or right feed

dog.

Change the needle position so that the needle does not

touch the presser foot.

For details, refer to “Setting the stitch width” in the “Basic operations” section.

1 Needle drop point

UTILITY STITCHES

Refer to step a–f of “Inserting a centered zipper”

on page S-19.

Remove the presser foot and presser foot holder to

attach the screw-on adjustable zipper/piping foot (sold separately with some models).

• For details on removing the presser foot holder, refer to “Removing and attaching the presser foot holder” in the “Basic operations” section.

• Make sure that the thread between the spool and the bobbin is pulled tight.

Select stitch .

Loosen the positioning screw on the back of the presser

foot.

• After adjusting the needle position, slowly turn the handwheel toward you (counterclockwise) and check the needle does not touch the presser foot. If the needle hits the presser foot, the needle may bend or break.

Securely tighten the positioning screw.

1 Positioning screw

Sewing S-23

Zipper/piping Insertion

CAUTION

Topstitch around the zipper.

1 Stitching 2 Right side of fabric 3 Basting stitching 4 End of zipper opening

After sewing, turn them over.

• When sewing, be sure that the needle does not touch the zipper, otherwise the needle may bend or break.

Remove the basting stitching.

Inserting a piping

Place the piping between two fabrics inside out, as

shown below.

1 Fabric 2 Piping 3 Fabric

Refer to the steps of attaching the adjustable zipper/

piping foot on the previous page.

Sew along the piping.

S-24

Baby Lock BLMAV Reference Guide

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual