BROTHER F410 User Manual

Operation Manual

Sewing Machine

Product Code: 888-F10/H32

Be sure to read this document before using the machine.

We recommend that you keep this document nearby for future reference.

INTRODUCTION

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 Brother dealer 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.

i

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 Operation Manual 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 Brother dealer.

•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 Brother dealer.

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, visit our website at www.brother.com

ii

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 Brother dealer to obtain the correct lead.

iii

ABOUT THIS MANUAL

ABOUT THIS MANUAL

This manual was written for several machine models.

The illustrations of the machine in this manual may differ from the actual design.

In addition, since the specifications differ depending on the model, some functions described in this manual may apply to only some models.

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	Page B-2
To learn the operation of the principal parts and the screens
Chapter 2 STARTING TO SEW	Page B-31
To learn how to prepare for sewing and basic sewing operations
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	Page S-2
Tips for sewing attractive finishes and various fabrics
Chapter 2 UTILITY STITCHES	Page S-6
Sew pre-programmed frequently used stitches

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	Page D-2
The variety of stitches widen your creativity

A Appendix

This section provides important information for operating this machine.	Page A-2
Chapter 1 MAINTENANCE AND TROUBLESHOOTING
The various maintenance and troubleshooting procedures are described.

iv

CONTENTS

CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION..................................................	i
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS .................	i
ABOUT THIS MANUAL ......................................	iv
WHAT YOU CAN DO WITH THIS MACHINE....	iv
B Basic operations
Chapter 1 GETTING READY	2
Names of Machine Parts and Their Functions ......	2
Machine ................................................................................	2
Needle and presser foot section ..................................................	4
Operation buttons ..................................................................	4
Operation panel and operation keys ......................................	5
Using the flat bed attachment ................................................	6
Included accessories ..............................................................	7
Optional accessories ..............................................................	8
Turning the Machine On/Off................................	9
Turning on the machine .......................................................	10
Turning off the machine .......................................................	10
LCD ....................................................................	11
Viewing the LCD .................................................................	11
Adjusting input sensitivity for operation keys .......................	12
Winding/Installing the Bobbin............................	13
Winding the bobbin .............................................................	13
Installing the bobbin ............................................................	16
Upper Threading ................................................	19
Threading the upper thread ..................................................	19
Threading the needle ...........................................................	21
Threading the needle manually (without using the needle
threader) ..............................................................................	22
Pulling up the bobbin thread................................................	23
Using the twin needle ..........................................................	23
Fabric/Thread/Needle Combinations .................	26
Replacing the Needle .........................................	27
Checking the needle ............................................................	27
Replacing the needle ...........................................................	27
Replacing the Presser Foot .................................	29
Replacing the presser foot ....................................................	29
Removing and attaching the presser foot holder ...................	30
Chapter 2 STARTING TO SEW	31
Sewing................................................................	31
Stitch selection methods ......................................................	31
Selecting a stitch pattern ......................................................	32
Sewing a stitch .....................................................................	33
Sewing reinforcement stitches ..............................................	35
Automatic reinforcement stitching .......................................	35
Reinforcement priority .........................................................	37
Setting the Stitch ................................................	38
Setting the stitch width .........................................................	38
Setting the stitch length ........................................................	38
Setting the thread tension .....................................................	39
Useful Functions.................................................	40
Automatically cutting the thread (Only on models with
automatic thread cutting key) ...............................................	40
Adjusting the presser foot pressure .......................................	41
Stitch Setting Chart ............................................	42

S Sewing
Chapter 1 SEWING ATTRACTIVE
FINISHES	2
Sewing Tips ..........................................................	2
Trial sewing............................................................................	2
Changing the sewing direction..................................................	2
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 .................................................	20
Inserting a centered zipper ...................................................	20
Inserting a side zipper ..........................................................	21
Zipper/piping Insertion ......................................	24
Inserting a centered zipper ...................................................	24
Inserting a piping..................................................................	25
Sewing Stretch Fabrics and Elastic Tape.............	26
Stretch stitching....................................................................	26
Elastic attaching ...................................................................	26
Appliqué, Patchwork and Quilt Stitching...........	27
Appliqué stitching ................................................................	27
Patchwork (crazy quilt) stitching...........................................	28
Piecing .................................................................................	28
Quilting................................................................................	30
Free motion quilting .............................................................	31
Satin stitching using the sewing speed controller ..................	32
Reinforcement Stitching.....................................	33
Triple stretch stitching ..........................................................	33
Bar tack stitching..................................................................	33
Darning................................................................................	34
Eyelet Stitching ..................................................	36
Decorative Stitching ..........................................	37
Fagoting ...............................................................................	37
Scallop stitching ...................................................................	38
Smocking .............................................................................	38
Shell tuck stitching ...............................................................	39
Joining..................................................................................	39
Heirloom stitching................................................................	40

v

CONTENTS

D Decorative sewing
Chapter 1 CHARACTER / DECORATIVE
STITCHES	2
Sewing the Various Built-in Decorative Patterns	.... 2
Selecting stitch patterns ..........................................................	2
Deleting a pattern...................................................................	3
Sewing attractive finishes .......................................................	3
Basic sewing ..........................................................................	4
Combining patterns ................................................................	5
Checking the selected pattern.................................................	6
Repeating combined patterns .................................................	6
Saving a pattern......................................................................	6
Retrieving a pattern ................................................................	7
Realigning the pattern ............................................................	7
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
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
If the thread becomes tangled under the bobbin winder seat.....	11
Error message “E06” appears in the LCD ..............................	13
List of symptoms...................................................................	15
Error messages......................................................................	21
Operation beep ....................................................................	22
Index ..................................................................	23

vi

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-31

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 parts and their locations.

Machine

■ Front view

The appearance of the machine differs depending on the model.

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1Top cover

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

2Thread guide plate

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

3Bobbin winding thread guide and pretension disk

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

4Spool cap

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

5Spool pin

Place a spool of thread on the spool pin.

6Bobbin winder

Use the bobbin winder when winding the bobbin.

7LCD (liquid crystal display)

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

8Operation panel

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

9Operation buttons and sewing speed controller

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

0Flat 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.

AThread cutter

Pass the threads through the thread cutter to cut them.

BNeedle threader lever

Use the needle threader lever to thread the needle.

CThread tension dial

Use the dial to adjust the upper thread tension. (page B-39)

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B-2

■ Right-side/rear view

The appearance of the machine differs depending on the model.

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Names of Machine Parts and Their Functions

1Handwheel

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

2Presser foot pressure dial

Adjust the amount of pressure that the presser foot applies to the fabric.

3Handle

Carry the machine by its handle when transporting.

4Presser foot lever

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

5Feed dog position switch

Use the feed dog position switch to raise and lower the feed dogs. (page S-31)

6Main power switch

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

7Power supply jack

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

8Foot controller

Depress the foot controller to control the speed of the machine. (page B-34)

9Air vent

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

0Foot controller jack

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

B

READY GETTING

Basic operations B-3

Names of Machine Parts and Their Functions

Needle and presser foot section

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1Needle bar thread guide

Pass the upper thread through the needle bar thread guide.

2Needle plate

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

3Needle plate cover

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

4Bobbin cover/bobbin case

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

5Feed dogs

The feed dogs feed the fabric in the sewing direction.

6Presser foot

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

7Presser foot holder

The presser foot is attached onto the presser foot holder.

8Presser foot holder screw

Use the presser foot holder screw to hold the presser foot in place. (page B-30)

9Buttonhole lever

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

Operation buttons

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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-31.

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 the bobbin winder shaft is moved to the right side.

2Reverse 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-35)

3Reinforcement 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- 35)

4Needle position button

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

5Thread cutter button (Equipped on some models.)

Press the thread cutter button after sewing is stopped to cut

both the upper and the bobbin threads. For details, refer to step junder “Sewing a stitch” on page B-34.

6Sewing speed controller

Slide the sewing speed controller to adjust the sewing speed.

CAUTION

•(Only on models with (Thread cutter button))

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.

B-4

Operation panel and operation keys

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Names of Machine Parts and Their Functions

0Memory key

Press to save stitch pattern combinations to machine memory. For details, refer to “Saving a pattern” in the “Decorative sewing” section.

AOK key

Press to apply the selection, perform the operation or add a stitch pattern.

BNumeric keys

Use these keys to quickly select one of the ten most often used stitches. When selecting other stitches, use these keys to enter the number of the desired stitch.

CBack key

Press this key to cancel the operation and return to the previous screen.

In addition, pressing this key removes the last pattern added when combining characters or decorative stitches.

DCharacter stitch key

Press to select a character stitch.

EDecorative stitch key

Press to select a decorative stitch.

FUtility stitch key

Press to select a utility stitch.

GPreset utility stitch/saved pattern key

Press to select the utility stitch assigned to a numeric key or to retrieve a pattern that has been saved.

HStitch width keys/Pattern check keys

Press to adjust the stitch width or to check stitch pattern combinations in the LCD.

B

READY GETTING

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1LCD (liquid crystal display)

Settings for the selected stitch and error messages for incorrect operations appear in the LCD.

For details, refer to “LCD” on page B-11

2 Stitch length keys

Press to adjust the stitch length in the LCD.

3Automatic thread cutting key (Equipped on some models.)

Press to select the automatic thread cutting function.

4Automatic reverse/reinforcement key

Press to use the automatic reverse/reinforcement stitching function.

5Initial needle position key

Press to select either “1 Straight stitch (Left)” or “3 Straight stitch (Middle)” as the utility stitch that is automatically selected when the machine is turned on.

6Single/repeat sewing key

Press to choose single pattern or continuous patterns.

7Needle position key

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

8Width control key

Press to allow the stitch width to be adjusted using the sewing speed controller. For details, refer to “Satin stitching using the sewing speed controller” in the “Sewing” section.

9Twin needle key

Press to use the twin needle. For details, refer to “Using the twin needle” on page B-23.

Note

•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 the input sensitivity. (page B-12)

•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

Using the flat bed attachment

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

The shape of the flat bed attachment differs depending on the machine model.

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

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1 Storage space of the flat bed attachment

2 Presser foot accessory tray

B-6

Names of Machine Parts and Their Functions

Included accessories

Included accessories may differ from the table below depending on your model. For more details on included accessories and their part codes of your machine, refer to the Quick Reference Guide.

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

J

N

G

I

R

M

Zigzag foot “J” (on	Monogramming foot “N”	Overcasting foot “G”	Zipper foot “I”	Blind stitch foot “R”	Button fitting foot “M”
machine)
7.	8.	9.	10.	11.	12.

A

Buttonhole foot “A”	Needle set*1	Twin needle*2	Bobbin (4)	Seam ripper	Cleaning brush
			(One is on machine.)
13.	14.	/	15.	16.	17.
Eyelet punch	Screwdriver*3		Disc-shaped screwdriver	Horizontal spool pin	Spool cap (large)
18.	19.	20.	21.	22.	23.

Spool cap (medium) (2)	Spool cap (small)	Thread spool insert (mini	Spool net	Bobbin case	Foot controller
(One is on machine.)		king thread spool)		(on machine)
24.	25.	26.

Accessory bag

Operation Manual

Quick Reference Guide

*1 75/11 2 needles, 90/14 2 needles,

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

*2 2/11 needle

*3 Either of the two is included with this machine.

Note

•(For U.S.A. only) Foot controller: Model T

This foot controller can be used on the machine with product code 888-F10. The product code is mentioned on the machine rating plate.

B

READY GETTING

Basic operations B-7

Names of Machine Parts and Their Functions

Optional accessories

The following are available as optional accessories to be purchased separately. Optional accessories differ depending on your model. For more optional accessories and their part codes, refer to the Quick Reference Guide.

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

Quilting foot	Walking foot	1/4" quilting foot	1/4" quilting foot with guide Quilting guide	Side cutter “S”
7.	8.	9.	10.

O

Roller foot	Free motion open toe	L-shaped screwdriver	Straight stitch foot and
	quilting foot “O”		needle plate set

Memo

•To obtain optional accessories or parts, contact your authorized Brother dealer.

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

•A variety of feet are available to enable different types of stitching and finishes. Visit your nearest authorized Brother dealer for a complete listing of optional accessories available for your machine.

•Always use accessories recommended for this machine.

B-8

Turning the Machine On/Off

Turning the Machine On/Off

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 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

CAUTION

•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 Brother 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.

•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 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 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.

B

READY GETTING

Basic operations B-9

Turning the Machine On/Off

Turning on the machine

aMake 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.

bInsert the plug of the power cord into a household electrical outlet.

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1 Power supply jack

2 Main power switch

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

The light, LCD and the “Start/Stop” button light up when the machine is turned on.

Memo

•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 resume after turning the power on again.

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.

aMake sure that the machine is not sewing.

bPress the main power switch on the right side of the machine in the direction of the “ ” symbol to turn the machine off.

B-10

LCD

LCD

Viewing the LCD

When the power is turned on, the LCD comes on, and the following screen is displayed.

The screen is changed using the keys below the LCD.

■ Utility stitch screen															■ Character/Decorative stitch screen (refer to
															the “Decorative sewing” section)
3 4 567															3							6 7
2															2
1														8	1												8

			B	A 0 9		D	C
	No.	Display	Item Name		Explanation			Page
	1		Stitch category		Shows the category of the currently selected stitch pattern.			B-31
					: Preset utility stitch
					: Utility stitch
					: Decorative stitch
					: Character stitch (Gothic font)
					: Character stitch (Handwriting font)
					: Character stitch (Outline)
					: Character stitch (Japanese font)
	2		Presser foot		Shows presser foot to be used.			B-29
	3		Single/repeat sewing		Shows single or continuous pattern sewing mode setting.			D-6
					: Single sewing mode
					: Repeat sewing mode
	4		Reinforcement priority		Shows that reinforcement priority has been set to “		”.	B-37
	5		Width control		Shows that the stitch width can be adjusted using the sewing speed controller.			S-32
	6		Needle position setting		Shows single or twin needle mode setting, and the needle stop position.			B-5
					: Single needle/down position
					: Single needle/up position
					: Twin needle/down position
					: Twin needle/up position
	7		Initial needle position		Shows either “1 Straight stitch (Left)” or “3 Straight stitch (Middle)” as the utility			B-5
					stitch that is automatically selected when the machine is turned on.
					: Straight stitch (Left)
					: Straight stitch (Middle)
	8	-	Stitch number		Shows the number of the currently selected stitch pattern.			B-42
	9		Automatic thread cutting		Shows automatic cutting for both the upper and the bobbin threads after sewing.			B-40
			(Equipped on some
			models)
	0		Automatic reverse/		Shows automatic reverse or reinforcement stitching after a pattern is sewn.			B-35
			reinforcement stitching
	A		Stitch length		Shows the stitch length of the currently selected stitch pattern.			B-38
	B		Stitch width		Shows the stitch width of the currently selected stitch pattern.			B-38
	C	-	Total number		Shows the total number of characters that are being combined.			D-5
	D	-	Position number		Shows the position of the selected stitch number.			D-5

B

READY GETTING

Basic operations B-11

LCD

Adjusting input sensitivity for operation keys

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

1

1 Operation keys

aTurn off the machine.

bWhile pressing (Reinforcement stitch button) on the operation panel, turn on the sewing machine.

cPress the “-” or “+” key to select “”.

dAdjustkey. the input sensitivity by pressing the “-” or “+”

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

Note

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

ePress any of the operation keys, other than the “-” or “+” key to check the sensitivity. When the key responds, “” blinks.

fTurn off the machine, then turn it on again.

Note

•Before turning off the machine, press any of the keys, other than “-” or “+” key. Otherwise the machine may not save the setting.

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

Turn machine off, then hold down (Needle position button) and turn on the machine to reset the settings. Turn off the machine, and then adjust the settings again.

B-12

Winding/Installing the Bobbin

Winding/Installing the Bobbin

CAUTION

•Only use the Bobbin (part code: SA156, SFB: XA5539-151) 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 (part code: SA156, SFB: XA5539-151). SA156 is Class15 type bobbin.

*Made of plastic

1 This model

2 Other models

3 11.5 mm (approx. 7/16 inch)

Memo

•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.

Memo

•The shape of the bobbin winder guide post will differ depending on your model; however, this should not affect the operating procedure.

This manual describes the procedure for models with a key-shaped bobbin winder guide post.

1

1 Bobbin winder guide post (oval)

1

1 Bobbin winder guide post (key)

aOpen the top cover.

bPlace 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.

1

2

1 Notch

2 Bobbin winder shaft spring

cSlide the bobbin winder in the direction of the arrow until it snaps into place.

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

B

READY GETTING

Basic operations B-13

Winding/Installing the Bobbin

dRemovepin. the spool cap that is inserted onto the spool

1

2

1 Spool pin

2 Spool cap

ePlacepin. the spool of thread for the bobbin onto the spool

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

fSlide 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.

CAUTION

•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. When using mini king thread spool, use the thread spool insert (mini king thread spool).

For details on thread spool insert (mini king thread spool), refer to “Memo” on page B-14.

Memo

•When using the spool as shown below, use the small spool cap, and leave a small space between the cap and the spool.

c b

a

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 2

3

4

1 Spool net

2 Spool

3 Spool cap

4Spool 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).

1 Thread spool insert (mini king thread spool)

2 12 mm (1/2 inch)

3 75 mm (3 inches)

B-14

Winding/Installing the Bobbin

gWhile 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

1 Thread guide cover

hPass the thread under the thread guide plate, and then pull it to the right.

1

1 Thread guide plate

iPass the thread under the hook on the thread guide, and then wind it counterclockwise under the pretension disk.

2

1

3

1 Thread guide

2 Pretension disk

3 Pull it in as far as possible

Note

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

jWhile 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.

Note

•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.

kPass 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

1Guide slit in bobbin winder seat (with built-in cutter)

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 thread may become tangled in the bobbin or the needle may bend or break when the bobbin thread starts to run out.

lSlide the sewing speed controller to the right.

1

1 Speed controller

Note

•Bobbin winding speeds may vary depending on type of thread being wound on bobbin.

B

READY GETTING

Basic operations B-15

Winding/Installing the Bobbin

mTurn on the machine.

nPressbobbin.the “Start/Stop” button once to start winding the When the foot controller is plugged in, press down on the foot controller.

1

1 “Start/Stop” button

Note

•When winding transparent nylon thread on the bobbin, stop bobbin winding when the bobbin is 1/2 to 2/3 full.

If the bobbin is fully wound with transparent nylon thread, the pressure may create fractures to the plastic bobbin. This will lead to irregular stitches or possible breakage to bobbin.

oWhen 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.

CAUTION

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

pUsethe bobbin.scissors to cut the end of the thread wound around

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

Memo

•If the bobbin winder shaft is set to the right side, the needle will not move. (Sewing is impossible.)

rSlide the sewing speed controller back to desired sewing speed position.

sRemovepin. the spool for the bobbin thread from the spool

Memo

•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.

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.

Memo

•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-23.

CAUTION

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

•Before inserting or changing the bobbin, be sure to turn off the machine, otherwise injuries may occur if the “Start/Stop” button or any other button is pressed and the machine starts operating.

B-16

Winding/Installing the Bobbin

aPress (Needle position button) once or twice to raise the needle.

bTurn off the machine.

cRaise the presser foot lever.

dSlide the bobbin cover latch to the right.

1 2

1 Bobbin cover

2 Latch

eRemove the bobbin cover.

fHold 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.

gLightly 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).

1 Tab

CAUTION

•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.

Memo

•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.

hWhile 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.

iWhile 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).

B

READY GETTING

Basic operations B-17

Winding/Installing the Bobbin

Note

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

1

1 Tension-adjusting spring

jReattach the bobbin cover.

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

2

1

The bobbin threading is finished.

Next, thread the upper thread. Continue with the procedure in “Upper Threading” on page B-19.

Memo

•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-23.

B-18

Upper Threading

Upper Threading

CAUTION

•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 needle may break. When using mini king thread spool, use the thread spool insert (mini king thread spool). For more information regarding the choice of spool caps for your thread choice, see page B-14.

•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-26.

Threading the upper thread

When threading the upper thread, carefully follow the instructions.

aTurn on the machine.

bRaise the presser foot lever to raise the presser foot.

1

1 Presser foot lever

The upper thread shutter opens so the machine can be threaded.

a

1 Shutter

Note

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

cPress (Needle position button) once or twice to raise the needle.

1

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

1 Mark on handwheel

dTurn off the machine.

B

READY GETTING

Basic operations B-19

Upper Threading

eRemovepin. the spool cap that is inserted onto the spool

1

2

1 Spool pin

2 Spool cap

fPlace 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.

CAUTION

•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.

gSlide 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.

hWhile 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

1 Thread guide cover

iWhile holding the thread lightly with your right hand, pass the thread under the thread guide plate, and then pull it up.

1 Thread guide plate

jPassshownthebelow.thread through the thread channel in the order

a

1 Shutter

Note

• 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.

B-20

Upper Threading

kSlide 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. Make sure that the thread is passed through to the left of the tab of the needle bar thread guide.

2

1

1 Needle bar thread guide

2 Tab

Threading the needle

Memo

•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-22.

aPull 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.

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

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

a

1

1 Cutter

Note

• 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 c.

• 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 8 cm (approx. 3 inches) of thread after passing it through the threader thread guide disks (marked “7”).

1

1 8 cm (approx. 3 inches) or more

cLower the presser foot lever to lower the presser foot.

1

1 Presser foot lever

B

READY GETTING

Basic operations B-21

Upper Threading

dLower 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.

Note

•If the needle is not raised to its highest position, the needle threader cannot thread the needle. Turn the 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 con

page B-19.

eCarefully pull the end of thread that was passed 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.

CAUTION

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

fRaise 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.

1

1 5 cm (approx. 2 inches)

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.

aThreadneedle. the machine until you reach the eye of the

•For details, refer to “Threading the upper thread” on page B-19.

bLower the presser foot lever.

1

1 Presser foot lever

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

CAUTION

•Make sure you turn the power off while threading the needle manually. Otherwise injuries may occur if the “Start/Stop” button or any other button is pressed and the machine starts operating.

dRaise 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.

B-22