Baby Lock Grace BL40A Instruction and Reference Guide

CONGRATULATIONS ON CHOOSING

OUR MACHINE

Your machine is the most advanced computerized household sewing machine. To fully enjoy all the features incorporated, we suggest that you study the manual.

PLEASE READ BEFORE USING THIS MACHINE

For safe operation

1. Be sure to keep your eye on the needle while sewing. Do not touch the handwheel, thread takeup lever, needle, or other moving parts.

2. Remember to turn off the power switch and unplug the cord when:

• Operation is completed

• Replacing or removing the needle or any other parts

• A power failure occurs during use

• Maintaining the machine

• Leaving the machine unattended.

3. Do not store anything on the foot controller.

4. Plug the machine directly into the wall. Do not use extension cords.

For a longer service life

1. 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.

2. 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.

3. Do not drop or hit the machine.

4. Always consult the operation manual when replacing or installing any assemblies, the presser feet, needle, or other parts to assure correct installation.

For repair or adjustment

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

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

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

Important Safety Instructions

Please read these safety instructions before attempting to use the machine. This machine is intended for household use.

DANGER - To reduce the risk of electric shock:

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

when 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, electric shock, or injury to persons.

2Always unplug the machine from the electrical outlet when removing covers, lubricating, or

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 the power is cut.

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

been dropped or damaged, or water is spilled on the unit. Return the machine to the nearest

authorized retailer or service center 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 sewing machine, be sure to carry it by its handle. Lifting the sewing

machine by any other part may damage the machine or result in the machine falling, which could

cause injuries.

When lifting the sewing machine, be careful not to make any sudden or careless movements,

otherwise you may injure your back or knees.

4 Always keep your work area clear:

• Never operate the machine with any air openings blocked. Keep ventilation openings of the

sewing 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 any object into 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 sewing machine on an unstable surface, such as an unsteady or slanted table,

otherwise the sewing machine may fall, resulting in injuries.

5 Special 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 sewing 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 freehand stitching

so that you do not deflect the needle and cause it to break.

6 This machine is not a toy:

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

• The plastic bag that this sewing 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.

7 For 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 operation manual when replacing or installing any assemblies, the presser feet,

needle, or other parts to assure correct installation.

8 For repair or adjustment:

• If the Light unit (light-emitting diode) is damaged, it must be replaced by authorized retailer.

• In the event a malfunction occurs or adjustment is required, first follow the troubleshooting table

in the back of the operation manual 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 this manual.

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

Save these instructions.

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

For additional product information, visit our web site at www.babylock.com

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Contents

Important Safety Instructions .............................................................................................. 1

Contents .............................................................................................................................. 4

Introduction ........................................................................................................................ 6

Names of Machine Parts and Their Functions ..................................................................... 6

Machine ............................................................................................................................................................ 6

Needle and presser foot section ...................................................................................................................... 7

Operation buttons ............................................................................................................................................. 7

Operation panel ................................................................................................................................................ 8

Flat bed attachment ......................................................................................................................................... 8

Accessories .......................................................................................................................... 9

Included accessories ........................................................................................................................................ 9

Optional accessories ...................................................................................................................................... 10

1. GETTING READY ..........................................................................................11

Turning the Machine On/Off .............................................................................................11

Power supply precautions .............................................................................................................................. 11

Turning on the machine ................................................................................................................................. 12

Turning off the machine ................................................................................................................................. 12

Preparing for Upper and Lower Threading ........................................................................ 13

Winding the bobbin ........................................................................................................................................ 13

Installing the bobbin ....................................................................................................................................... 16

Threading the upper thread ............................................................................................................................ 18

Using the twin needle ..................................................................................................................................... 23

Replacing the Needle ........................................................................................................25

Needle precautions ........................................................................................................................................ 25

Needle types and their uses ........................................................................................................................... 26

Checking the needle ...................................................................................................................................... 27

Replacing the needle ..................................................................................................................................... 27

Replacing the Presser Foot ................................................................................................ 29

Presser foot precautions ................................................................................................................................ 29

Replacing the presser foot ............................................................................................................................. 29

Removing the presser foot holder .................................................................................................................. 30

Using the optional walking foot ...................................................................................................................... 31

Useful Functions ................................................................................................................33

Changing the needle stop position ................................................................................................................. 33

Changing the initial needle position ............................................................................................................... 34

Sewing Cylindrical or Large Pieces .................................................................................... 35

Stitching cylindrical pieces ............................................................................................................................. 35

Sewing large pieces of fabric ......................................................................................................................... 35

2. SEWING BASICS ...........................................................................................37

Starting to Sew ..................................................................................................................37

Sewing procedure .......................................................................................................................................... 37

Selecting a stitch ............................................................................................................................................ 38

Adjusting the stitch length and width .............................................................................................................. 38

Positioning the fabric ...................................................................................................................................... 39

Starting to sew ............................................................................................................................................... 40

Securing the stitching ..................................................................................................................................... 42

Cutting the thread ........................................................................................................................................... 44

Automatically sewing reverse/reinforcement stitches .................................................................................... 44

Adjusting the thread tension ........................................................................................................................... 45

Useful Sewing Tips ............................................................................................................ 46

Trial sewing .................................................................................................................................................... 46

Changing the sewing direction ....................................................................................................................... 46

Sewing curves ................................................................................................................................................ 46

Sewing thick fabrics ....................................................................................................................................... 46

Sewing thin fabrics ......................................................................................................................................... 47

Sewing stretch fabrics .................................................................................................................................... 47

Pulling up the bobbin thread .......................................................................................................................... 48

3. UTILITY STITCHES ........................................................................................49

Overcasting ....................................................................................................................... 49

Sewing overcasting stitches using zigzag foot “J” .......................................................................................... 50

Sewing overcasting stitches using overcasting foot “G” ................................................................................. 50

Basic Stitching ...................................................................................................................51

Blind Hem Stitching ..........................................................................................................52

Buttonhole Stitching ..........................................................................................................54

Button sewing ................................................................................................................................................. 59

Zipper Insertion ................................................................................................................. 61

Inserting a centered zipper ............................................................................................................................. 61

Inserting a side zipper .................................................................................................................................... 62

Sewing Stretch Fabrics and Elastic Tape ............................................................................ 65

Stretch stitching .............................................................................................................................................. 65

Elastic attaching ............................................................................................................................................. 65

Appliqué, Patchwork and Quilt Stitching ..........................................................................67

Appliqué stitching ........................................................................................................................................... 68

Patchwork (crazy quilt) stitching ..................................................................................................................... 68

Piecing ........................................................................................................................................................... 69

Quilting ........................................................................................................................................................... 69

Free-motion quilting ....................................................................................................................................... 70

Reinforcement Stitching .................................................................................................... 72

Triple stretch stitching .................................................................................................................................... 72

Bar tack stitching ............................................................................................................................................ 73

Decorative stitching ..........................................................................................................75

Fagoting ......................................................................................................................................................... 76

Scallop stitching ............................................................................................................................................. 76

Smocking ....................................................................................................................................................... 77

Shell tuck stitching ......................................................................................................................................... 77

Joining ............................................................................................................................................................ 78

Heirloom stitching ........................................................................................................................................... 78

Using the side cutter (optional) ...................................................................................................................... 81

4. APPENDIX .....................................................................................................85

Stitch settings ....................................................................................................................85

Utility stitches ................................................................................................................................................. 85

Maintenance ......................................................................................................................89

Cleaning the machine surface ........................................................................................................................ 89

Cleaning the race ........................................................................................................................................... 89

Removing the needle plate ............................................................................................................................ 90

Troubleshooting ................................................................................................................91

Error messages ................................................................................................................... 95

Operation beep .................................................................................................................96

Canceling the operation beep ........................................................................................................................ 96

Index ................................................................................................................................. 97

Introduction

Thank you for choosing this product. Before using this sewing machine, carefully read “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.

Names of Machine Parts and Their Functions

Machine

a Bobbin winder (page 13)

Use the bobbin winder when winding the bobbin.

b Spool pin (page 13, 18)

Place a spool of thread on the spool pin.

c Thread tension dial (page 45)

Use the thread tension dial to adjust the tension of the upper thread.

d Bobbin-winding thread guide and pretension disc

(page 13)

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

e Thread take-up lever (page 21)

Slide the thread into the thread take-up lever from the right side of slot to the left side of slot.

f Thread cutter (page 44)

Pass the threads through the thread cutter to cut them.

g Flat bed attachment (page 8, 9, 35)

Store presser feet and bobbins in the flat bed attachment. Remove the flat bed attachment when sewing cylindrical pieces such as sleeve cuffs.

h Operation buttons and sewing speed controller

(page 7)

Use these buttons and the slide to operate the sewing machine.

i Operation panel (page 8)

Use to select stitches and various other stitch settings.

j Pattern selection dial (page 38)

Use to select the pattern to sew.

k Handwheel

Turn the handwheel toward you to sew one stitch or to raise or lower the needle.

l Main power switch (page 12)

Use this switch to turn the sewing machine on and off.

m Power supply jack (page 12)

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

n Foot controller jack (page 41)

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

o Feed dog position switch (page 71)

Use this switch to lower the feed dogs.

p Presser foot lever (page 18)

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

q Thread guide (page 14)

Pass the thread under this thread guide when winding the bobbin thread and threading the machine.

r Thread guide cover (page 14)

Pass the thread under this thread guide when winding the bobbin thread and threading the machine.

s Air vent

This vent allows the air surrounding the motor to circulate.

t Handle

Carry the sewing machine by its handle when transporting the machine.

Needle and presser foot section

a Needle threader lever

Use the needle threader to thread the needle.

b Buttonhole lever

Lower the buttonhole lever when sewing buttonholes and bar tacks.

c Presser foot holder

The presser foot is attached to the presser foot holder.

d Presser foot holder screw

Use the presser foot holder screw to hold the presser foot holder in place.

e Presser foot

The presser foot applies pressure to the fabric during sewing. Attach the appropriate presser foot for the selected stitch.

f Needle plate cover

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

g Feed dogs

The feed dogs feed the fabric.

h Quick-set bobbin

Begin sewing without pulling up the bobbin thread.

i Bobbin cover

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

j Needle plate

The needle plate is marked with guides to help sew straight seams.

k Needle bar thread guide

Pass the upper thread through the needle bar thread guide.

l Presser foot lever

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

m Needle clamp screw

Use the needle clamp screw to hold the needle in place.

Operation buttons

The operation buttons help you to easily perform various basic sewing machine operations.

a Start/stop button

Press the start/stop button to start or stop sewing. The machine sews at a low speed at the beginning of sewing while the button is continuously pressed. When sewing is stopped, the needle is lowered into the fabric. For details, refer to “Starting to sew” (page 40).

b Reverse/reinforcement stitch button

Press the reverse/reinforcement stitch button to sew reverse stitches or reinforcement stitches. Reverse stitches are sewn by keeping the button pressed down to sew in the opposite direction. Reinforcement stitches are sewn by sewing 3 to 5 stitches on top of each other. For details, refer to“Securing the stitching” (page 42).

c Needle position button

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

d Sewing speed controller

Slide the sewing speed controller to the left or right to adjust the sewing speed. Slide the sewing speed controller to the left to reduce the sewing speed, or slide the speed controller to the right to increase the sewing speed.

Operation panel

Flat bed attachment

The operation panel, located on the front of the sewing machine, allows you to select a stitch and specify how the stitch will be sewn.

a LCD (liquid crystal display)

The number of the selected stitch ( to be used ( stitch width (mm) (

b Stitch length key (page 38)

Use to adjust the length of the stitch. (Press the “–” side for a shorter stitch length, or press the “+” side for a longer stitch length.)

c Stitch width key (page 39)

Use to adjust the width of the stitch. (Press the “–” side for a more narrow stitch width, or press the “+” side for a wider stitch width.)

d Automatic reverse/reinforcement stitch key (page 44)

The sewing machine can be set to automatically sew reverse or reinforcement stitches at the beginning and end of the stitching.

e Needle mode selection key (single/twin) (page 23)

Press this key to select the twin needle sewing setting. Each time this key is pressed, the setting switches between that for single needle sewing and for twin needle sewing.

2), the stitch length (mm) (3), and the

4) are displayed here.

1), the presser foot

The accessories are stored in the storage space in the flat bed attachment.

Swing the lid of the flat bed attachment

toward you to open the storage space.

a Flat bed attachment b Accessory compartment

X The bag of accessories is in the storage

space.

Note

● Place the accessories in the bag before storing them in the flat bed attachment. If the accessories are not placed in the accessory bag when stored in the flat bed attachment, accessories may fall out and be lost or damaged.

Accessories

After opening the box, check that the following accessories are included. If any item is missing or damaged, contact your retailer.

Included accessories

The following items should also be included in the box.

Note

(For U.S.A. only)

● Foot controller: Model T This foot controller can be used on this machine model BL40.

● The screw for the presser foot holder is available through your authorized retailer. (Part code: XA4813-051)

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9.

10.* 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18.

19. 20. 21. 22. 23. 24. 25.

26.

No. Part Name Part Code No. Part Name Part Code

1 Buttonhole foot “A” XC2691-033 15 Screwdriver (small) X55648-051 2 Overcasting foot “G” XC3098-031 16 Spool cap (large) 130012-054 3 Monogramming foot “N” XD0810-031 17 Spool cap (medium) XE1372-001 4 Zipper foot “I” X59370-021 18 Spool cap (small) 130013-154 5 Zigzag foot “J” (on machine) XC3021-051 19 Extra spool pin XE2241-001 6 Blind stitch foot “R” X56409-051 20 Spool net XA5523-020 7 Button fitting foot “M” 130489-001 21 Foot controller XC8816-021 8 Seam ripper X54243-051 22 Operation manual XE4568-001

9 Bobbin (4) X52800-120 23 Quick reference guide XE2429-001 10 Needle set X58358-021 24 Accessory bag XC4487-021 11 Twin needle X59296-121 25 Disc-shaped screwdriver XC1074-051 12 Cleaning brush X59476-021 26 Soft cover XC1103-022 13 Eyelet punch 135793-001 27 Power cord XC6052-021 14 Screwdriver (large) XC8349-051

27.

* 75/11 2 needles

90/14 2 needles 90/14 2 needles: Ball point needle (gold colored)

Optional accessories

The following are available as optional accessories.

1. 2. 3.

4. 5. 6. 7.

8. 9. 10. 11.

No. Part Name Part Code No. Part Name Part Code

1 Side cutter FA10 7 Non stick foot FA8

2 Quilting guide FA11 8 Open toe foot FA7

3 Extension table BL40-ET 9 Stitch guide foot “P” FA6

4 Walking foot BLG-WF 10 1/4 inch quilting foot FA1

5 Quilting foot FA2

6 Adjustable zipper/piping foot FA9

1/4 inch quilting foot with

guide

ESG-QGF

Memo

● All specifications are correct at the time of printing. The part codes are subject to change without notice.

● Visit your Baby Lock retailer for a complete listing of optional accessories available for your machine.

1 GETTING READY

Turning the Machine On/Off

This section explains how to turn the sewing machine on and off.

Power supply precautions

Be sure to observe the following precautions concerning the power supply.

WARNING

● 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 supply jack on the machine.

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

● Turn off the main power 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

CAUTION

● Use only the power cord included with this machine.

● Do not use extension cords or multi-plug adapters with many other appliances plugged in to

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 off the main power first. Always grasp the plug to

remove it from the 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 and cause fire or electric shock. If the cord or plug is damaged, take the machine to your authorized dealer 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.

GETTING READY —————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————

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Turning on the machine

Prepare the included power cord.

Make sure that the sewing 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.

a Main power switch b Power cord

Press the right side of the main power switch

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

Turning off the machine

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

Make sure that the machine is not sewing.

Press the left side of the main power switch on

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

X The sewing lamp and the LCD go off

when the machine is turned off.

Unplug the power cord from the electrical

outlet.

Grasp the plug when unplugging the power cord.

Unplug the power cord from the power

supply jack.

X The sewing lamp and the LCD come on

when the machine is turned on.

Note

● If a power outage occurs while the sewing machine is being operated, turn off the sewing machine and unplug the power cord. When restarting the sewing machine, follow the necessary procedure to correctly operate the machine. (For U.S.A. 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 outlet only one way. If the plug does not fit fully in the outlet, reverse the plug. If it still does not fit, contact a qualified electrician to install the proper outlet. Do not modify the plug in any way.

Preparing for Upper and Lower Threading

Winding the bobbin

Wind the thread onto the bobbin.

a Hook of the

bobbin-winding thread guide

b Pretention disk c Bobbin winder

shaft

d Bobbin

CAUTION

● The included bobbin was designed specifically for this sewing machine. The machine will not operate correctly if older model bobbins, which have a different thickness, are used. Use only the enclosed bobbin or bobbins of the same type. Using a bobbin other than the one designed specifically for this machine may result in injuries or damage to the machine.

a This model

Turn on the sewing machine.

Swing up the spool pin, and then remove the

spool cap.

b Other model c 11.5 mm (7/16 inch)

(actual size)

Place the bobbin on the bobbin winder shaft

so that the spring on the shaft fits into the notch in the bobbin.

a Notch b Bobbin winder shaft spring

Slide the bobbin winder shaft to the right until

it snaps into place.

a Spool pin b Spool cap

Fully insert the spool of thread for the bobbin

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.

CAUTION

● 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.

With the slightly rounded side of the spool cap positioned toward the left, slide the spool cap onto the spool pin as far as possible to the right so that the spool is moved to the right end of the spool pin.

Memo

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

a Spool cap (small) b Spool (cross-wound thread) c Space

Pull some thread off the spool, and then pass

the thread under the thread guide.

a Thread guide

Pass the thread under the thread guide cover

from the back to the front.

Hold the thread with your right hand so that there is no slack in the thread that is pulled out, and then pass the thread under the thread guide cover with your left hand.

● 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. When the spool net is used, the tension of the upper thread will slightly increase. Be sure to check the thread tension. For details, refer to “Adjusting the thread tension” (page 45).

a Spool net b Spool c Spool cap d Spool pin

a Thread guide cover

Pull the thread, pass it under the hook of the

bobbin-winding thread guide, and then wind the thread counterclockwise between the discs, pulling it in as far as possible.

a Hook of the bobbin-winding thread guide b Pretension disk

While using your left hand to hold the thread

that was passed through the bobbin-winding thread guide, use your right hand to wind the end of the thread clockwise around the bobbin five or six times.

Press (start/stop button) once.

X The bobbin starts spinning and the

thread is wound around the bobbin.

Pass the end of the thread through the slit in

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

a Slit in bobbin winder seat (with built-in

cutter)

X The thread is cut to a suitable length.

CAUTION

● 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 bobbin may not be wound correctly. In addition, 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

to increase the bobbin winding speed and slide to left to decrease.

a Sewing speed controller

a Start/stop button

When the bobbin winding becomes slow,

press (start/stop button) once to stop the machine.

CAUTION

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

Cut the thread, slide the bobbin winder shaft

to the left, and then remove the bobbin from the shaft.

Memo

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

● The needle cannot move (sewing is not possible) while the bobbin winder shaft is moved to the right.

——

Turn off the sewing machine (set it to “ ”).

Installing the bobbin

Install the bobbin wound with thread.

CAUTION

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

Slide the latch on the right side of the bobbin

cover to the right, and then remove the bobbin cover.

a Bobbin cover b Latch

Insert the bobbin with your right hand so that

the thread unrolls to the left side, and then pull the thread firmly under the tab with your left hand.

a This model b Other model c 11.5 mm (7/16 inch) (actual size)

● Before installing the bobbin or replacing the needle, be sure to turn off the sewing machine, otherwise injuries may occur if the start/stop button is accidentally pressed and the machine starts sewing.

Press (needle position button) once or

twice to raise the needle, and then raise the presser foot lever.

a Needle position button

a Tab

CAUTION

● Be sure to hold down the bobbin with your finger and install the bobbin so that the thread unwinds in the correct direction, otherwise the needle may break or the thread tension will be incorrect.

Lightly hold down the bobbin with your right

hand, and guide the thread through the slot, and then pull it toward you to cut it with the cutter.

Reattach the bobbin cover.

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

a Slot b Cutter

X The cutter cuts the thread.

• Make sure that the thread is correctly passed through the flat spring of the bobbin case. If it is not inserted correctly, reinstall the bobbin.

a Flat spring

Memo

● You can begin sewing without pulling up the bobbin thread. If you wish to pull up the bobbin thread before starting to sew, finish threading the machine, and then pull up the thread according to the procedure in “Pulling up the bobbin thread” (page 48).

Memo

●

The direction for feeding the bobbin thread is indicated by marks around the needle plate cover. Be sure to thread the machine as indicated.

——

Threading the upper thread

In this section, the procedures for installing the spool for the upper thread and threading the needle are described.

a Spool pin

b Mark on handwheel

CAUTION

● When threading the machine, carefully follow the instructions. If the upper threading is not performed correctly, the thread may become tangled and the needle may bend or break.

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

● Use appropriate thread and needle combinations. For details on appropriate needle and thread

combinations, refer to “Needle types and their uses” (page 26).

● Thread with a thickness of 130/20 or thicker cannot be used with the needle threader.

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

● If the needle threader cannot be used, refer to “Manually threading the needle” (page 22).

Turn on the sewing machine.

Raise the presser foot lever.

a Presser foot lever

CAUTION

● If the presser foot is not raised, the sewing machine cannot be threaded correctly.

Press (needle position button) once or

twice to raise the needle.

a Needle position button

• If the needle is not correctly raised, the sewing machine cannot be threaded. Check that the mark on the handwheel points up as shown in the illustration below. If the handwheel is not in this position, be sure to press the needle position button to raise the needle before continuing the procedure.

Fully insert the spool for the upper 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.

CAUTION

● If the spool is not positioned so that the thread unwinds correctly, the thread may become tangled around the spool pin and the thread or needle may break.

● If the spool cap that is used is smaller than the spool, the thread may catch, for example, on the notch in the spool, or the needle may break.

a Mark on handwheel

Swing up the spool pin, and then remove the

spool cap.

a Spool pin b Spool cap

——

Slide the spool cap onto the spool pin.

Memo

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

a Spool cap (small) b Spool (cross-wound thread) c Space

Pull some thread off the spool, and then pass

the thread under the thread guide.

a Thread guide

Pass the thread under the thread guide cover

from the back to the front. Hold the thread with your right hand so that there is no slack in the thread that is pulled out, and then pass the thread under the thread guide cover with your left hand.

a Thread guide cover

Thread the machine by guiding the thread

along the path indicated by the number on the machine.

a Spool net b Spool c Spool cap d Spool pin

Slide the thread into the thread take-up lever

from the right to the left.

a Thread take-up lever

Memo

● If the needle is not raised, the thread takeup lever cannot be threaded. Be sure to press the needle position button to raise the needle before threading the thread take-up lever.

Pass the thread behind the needle bar thread

guide.

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

While lowering the needle threader lever,

hook the thread onto the guide.

a Needle threader b Thread c Guide

Catch the thread on the hook as shown below.

a Needle bar thread guide

Lower the presser foot lever.

a Presser foot lever

a Needle threader lever

Raise the needle threader lever, and then pull

the end of the thread which passed through the eye of the needle.

CAUTION

● Be careful not to pull on the thread with force or it may bend the needle.

——

Raise the presser foot lever, pass the end of

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

a 5 cm (2 inches)

X The upper threading is finished.

■ Manually threading the needle

If the needle threader cannot be used, thread the needle as described below.

Thread the machine to the needle bar thread

guide, as described in steps a through k of “Threading the upper thread”, and then lower the presser foot lever.

Raise the presser foot lever.

a Presser foot lever

Pass the end of the thread through the presser

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

a 5 cm (2 inches)

Turn off the sewing machine.

CAUTION

● Be sure to turn off the sewing machine, otherwise injuries may occur if the start/stop button is accidentally pressed and the machine starts sewing.

Manually pass the thread through the eye of

the needle from front to back.

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 and the extra spool pin. For details on the stitches that can be sewn with the twin needle, refer to “Stitch settings” (page 85).

a Twin needle b Extra spool pin

Insert the extra spool pin onto the end of the

bobbin winder shaft.

a Bobbin winder shaft b Extra spool pin c Thread spool

Install the thread spool and thread the upper

thread.

CAUTION

● Only use the twin 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 sewing machine may be damaged.

Install the twin needle.

• For details on installing a needle, refer to “Replacing the needle” (page 27).

Thread the upper thread for the left needle.

• For details, refer to steps a through j of “Threading the upper thread” (page 18).

Manually thread the left needle with the

upper thread.

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

Memo

● When setting the thread spool, set it so that the thread winds off from the front of the spool.

Thread the upper thread for the right side in

the same way that the upper thread for the left side was threaded.

a Thread guide cover

• For details, refer to step a through j of

“Threading the upper thread” (page 18).

Without passing the thread through the

needle bar thread guide, manually thread the right needle.

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

——

Attach zigzag foot “J”.

• For details on changing the presser foot, refer to “Replacing the presser foot” (page 29).

CAUTION

● When using the twin needle, be sure to attach zigzag foot “J”, otherwise the needle may break or the machine may be damaged.

Turn on the sewing machine.

X The LCD comes on.

Select a stitch.

• For details on selecting a stitch, refer to “Selecting a stitch” (page 38).

• For details on the stitches that can be sewn with the twin needle, refer to “Stitch settings” (page 85).

Start sewing.

• For details on starting to sew, refer to “Starting to sew” (page 40).

X Two lines of stitching are sewn parallel

to each other.

Note

● When using the twin needle, the stitches

may become bunched together, depending on the types of thread and fabric that are used. If this occurs, increase the stitch length. For details on adjusting the stitch length, refer to “Adjusting the stitch length and width” (page 38).

CAUTION

● 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.

Press (Needle mode selection key).

X The twin needle can now be used.

• To return to single needle sewing, press (Needle mode selection key).

• Even after the sewing machine is turned off, the twin needle setting is not cancelled.

CAUTION

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

CAUTION

● 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. Otherwise the needle may break or the machine may be damaged.

● Do not try turning the fabric with the twin

needle left down in the fabric, otherwise the needle may break or the machine may be damaged.

Replacing the Needle

This section provides information on sewing machine needles.

Needle precautions

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.

CAUTION

● Only use home sewing 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.

——

Needle types and their uses

The sewing 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

Broadcloth Cotton thread

Medium

weight fabrics

Gabardine

Thin fabrics

Thick

fabrics

Stretch

fabrics

Easily frayed fabrics

Georgette Synthetic thread

Challis, Satin Silk thread 50

Corduroy Synthetic thread

Thread

Type Weight

Taffeta Synthetic thread

Flannel,

Lawn Cotton thread

Denim Cotton thread 30–50

Tweed Silk thread

Jersey

Tricot

Silk thread 50

Thread for knits 50–60

Cotton thread

60–80

50–60

50–80

Size of Needle

75/11–90/14

65/9–75/11

90/14–100/16

Ball point needle

(golden colored)

75/11–90/14

65/9–90/14Synthetic thread

For top-stitching

Memo

● The smaller the thread number, the thicker the thread, and the larger the needle number, the thicker the needle.

● Use the ball point needle when sewing on stretch fabrics or fabrics where skipped stitches easily occur.

● Use a 90/14 to 100/16 needle with transparent nylon threads, regardless of the fabric being sewn.

● A 75/11 needle is already installed when the sewing machine is purchased.

Silk thread 50

Synthetic thread

50–60 90/14–100/16

Silk thread

CAUTION

● 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 thick 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

Replacing the needle

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.

a Flat side b Needle type marking

a Flat surface

Replace the needle as described below. Use the screwdriver and a correct needle, as described in “Checking the needle”.

Press (needle position button) once or

twice to raise the needle.

a Needle position button

Turn off the sewing machine.

CAUTION

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

a Flat surface

● Before replacing the needle, be sure to turn off the sewing machine, otherwise injuries may occur if the start/stop button is accidentally pressed and the machine starts sewing.

Lower the presser foot lever.

a Presser foot lever

CAUTION

● Before replacing the needle, place fabric or paper under the presser foot to prevent the needle from falling into the hole in the needle plate.

——

Loosen the needle clamp screw and remove

the needle.

Hold the needle with your left hand, and then turn the screwdriver counterclockwise with your right hand.

a Needle clamp screw b Screwdriver

• Do not apply extreme force when loosening or tightening the needle clamp screw, otherwise damage to the machine may result.

While holding the needle with your left hand,

tighten the needle clamp screw.

Turn the screwdriver clockwise.

Install the twin needle in the same way.

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.

With the flat side of the needle toward the

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

a Needle stopper

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