Brother FS100WT Operation Manual

Operation Manual

Sewing Machine

KNOWING YOUR SEWING MACHINE

Product Code: 888-E30/E31/E37/E38/V61/V63/V65/V67

SEWING BASICS

UTILITY STITCHES

APPENDIX

Be sure to read this document before usingthe machine.

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

IMPORTANTSAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

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

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 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 Electrical 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 inverter. 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.

4 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 dealer 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 and immediately 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, otherwise you may injure your back or knees.

5 Always 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 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 machine on an unstable surface, such as an unsteady or slanted table, otherwise the machine may fall, resulting in injuries.

6 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 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.

1

7 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 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.

8 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.

9 For repair or adjustment:

•If the Light unit (light-emitting diode) is damaged, it must be replaced by authorized 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 this 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 web site at www.brother.com

SAVE THESE

INSTRUCTIONS

This machine is intended for household use.

FOR USERS IN COUNTRIES EXCEPT CENELEC 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 CENELEC 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 dealer to obtain the correct lead.

2

CONTENTS
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS ...............	1
CONTENTS .........................................................	3
1. KNOWING YOUR SEWING MACHINE .....	4
ACCESSORIES .....................................................	4
Included accessories ...............................................	4
Optional accessories ................................................	4
Accessory compartment ..........................................	5
NAMES OF MACHINE PARTS AND THEIR
FUNCTIONS .......................................................	5
The main parts .........................................................	5
Needle and presser foot section ..............................	6
Operation buttons ....................................................	6
Operation panel .......................................................	6
Spool pin ..................................................................	7
USING YOUR SEWING MACHINE ....................	7
Power supply precautions ........................................	7
Power supply ...........................................................	8
Foot controller ..........................................................	8
Sewing speed controller (for models equipped
with the start/stop button) .........................................	9
Changing the needle stop position ...........................	9
Changing the initial needle position .........................	9
Cancelling the operation beep
(for models equipped with the operation beep) ........	9
THREADING THE MACHINE ...........................	10
Winding the bobbin ................................................	10
Lower threading .....................................................	13
Upper threading .....................................................	15
Drawing up the lower thread ..................................	18
REPLACING THE NEEDLE .................................	18
Needle precautions ................................................	18
Needle types and their uses ..................................	19
Checking the needle ..............................................	19
Replacing the needle .............................................	20
Sewing with the twin needle ...................................	21
REPLACING THE PRESSER FOOT .....................	22
Replacing the presser foot .....................................	22
Removing the presser foot holder ..........................	23
2. SEWING BASICS ......................................	24
SEWING ...........................................................	24
General sewing procedure .....................................	24
Selecting a stitch ....................................................	24
Adjusting the stitch length and width ......................	24
Starting to sew .......................................................	25
Thread tension .......................................................	26
USEFUL SEWING TIPS ......................................	27
Trial sewing ............................................................	27
Changing the sewing direction ...............................	27
Sewing curves ........................................................	27
Sewing thick fabrics ...............................................	27
Sewing hook-and-loop fastener .............................	28
Sewing thin fabrics .................................................	28
Sewing stretch fabrics ............................................	28
Stitching cylindrical pieces .....................................	28
3. UTILITY STITCHES ...................................	29
OVERCASTING STITCHES ................................	29

Using zigzag foot ....................................................	29
Using overcasting foot ............................................	29
BASIC STITCHING ...........................................	30
Basic stitching ........................................................	30
BLIND HEM STITCHING ..................................	30
BUTTONHOLE SEWING ..................................	32
Button sewing .........................................................	35
ZIPPER INSERTION ..........................................	36
SEWING STRETCH FABRICS AND ELASTIC
TAPE .................................................................	37
Stretch stitching ......................................................	38
Elastic attaching .....................................................	38
APPLIQUÉ, PATCHWORK AND QUILT
STITCHING ......................................................	38
Appliqués ...............................................................	39
Patchwork (crazy quilt) stitching .............................	39
Piecing ...................................................................	39
Quilting ...................................................................	39
Free-motion quilting ...............................................	40
REINFORCEMENT STITCHING ........................	41
Triple stretch stitching ............................................	41
Bar tack stitching ....................................................	41
DECORATIVE STITCHING ...............................	42
Fagoting .................................................................	43
Scallop stitching .....................................................	44
Smocking ...............................................................	44
Shell tuck stitching .................................................	45
Joining ....................................................................	45
Heirloom stitching ...................................................	45
SEWING CHARACTERS (For models equipped
with character stitches) ....................................	46
Selecting characters ...............................................	46
Checking characters ..............................................	48
Deleting characters ................................................	48
Sewing the character stitches ................................	48
ADJUSTING STITCHES (For models equipped
with character stitches) ....................................	49
4. APPENDIX ................................................	50
STITCH SETTINGS ............................................	50
Utility stitches .........................................................	50
Character stitches (for models equipped with
character stitches) ..................................................	56
MAINTENANCE ................................................	57
Restrictions on oiling ..............................................	57
Precautions on storing the machine .......................	57
Cleaning the machine surface ................................	57
Cleaning the race ...................................................	57
TROUBLESHOOTING ......................................	58
Frequent troubleshooting topics .............................	58
Upper thread tightened up .....................................	59
Tangled thread on wrong side of fabric ..................	59
Incorrect thread tension .........................................	59
Fabric is caught in the machine and cannot be
removed .................................................................	60
List of symptoms ....................................................	63
ERROR MESSAGES ...........................................	68
Operation beep (for models equipped with the
operation beep) ......................................................	68
INDEX ..............................................................	69

3

KNOWING YOUR SEWING MACHINE

1 KNOWING YOUR SEWING MACHINE

ACCESSORIES

Included accessories

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

Note

(For U.S.A. only)

●Foot controller: Model T

This foot controller can be used on the machine with product code 888-E30/E31/E37/E38/V61/V63/ V65/V67. The product code is mentioned on the machine rating plate.

●The screw of the presser foot holder is available through your authorized dealer. (Part code: 132730-122)

●The included accessories vary depending on the machine model.

1.	2.	3.
4.	5.	6.
7.	8.	9.
10.	11.	12.
75/11 1 needle		90/14 1 needle
90/14 1 needle
100/16 1 needle
13.	14.	15.
16.	17.	18.

	No.	Part Name	Part Code
			Americas	Others
	1	Zigzag foot “J” (on machine)	XC3021-031
	2	Buttonhole foot “A”	XC2691-033
	3	Overcasting foot “G”	XC3098-031
	4	Monogramming foot “N”	XD0810-031
	5	Zipper foot “I”	X59370-021
	6	Blind stitch foot “R”	XE2650-001
	7	Button fitting foot “M”	XE2137-001
	8	Seam ripper	XF4967-001
	9	Bobbin (4)	SA156	SFB:
		(One is on machine.)		XA5539-151
	10	Needle set	XC8834-021
	11	Twin needle	131096-121
	12	Ball point needle	XD0360-021
		(gold colored)
	13	Cleaning brush	X59476-051
	14	Disc-shaped screwdriver	XC1074-051
	15	Spool cap (large)	130012-024
	16	Spool cap (medium)	XE1372-001
		(on machine)
	17	Spool cap (small)	130013-124
	18	Extra spool pin	XE2241-001
	19	Foot controller	XD0501-121 (EU area)
			XC8816-071 (Other areas)

Memo

●About zigzag foot “J”;

Press the black button on the left side of the foot when it is difficult for thick seams to be fed, for example, at the beginning of sewing thick fabrics. (page 27)

a Black button

Optional accessories

The following are available as optional accessories to be purchased separately. Depending on the model you purchased, the following accessory may be included with your machine.

1.

2.

3.

4. 5.

19.

4

	No.	Part Name	Part Code
			Americas	Others
	1	Walking Foot	SA140	F033N:
				XG6623-001
	2	Quilting Foot	SA129	F005N:
				XC1948-052
	3	1/4-Inch Quilting Foot	SA125	F001N:
				XC1944-052
	4	Quilting guide	SA132	F016N:
				XC2215-052
	5	Eyelet punch	XZ5051-001

Accessory compartment

The accessories are stored in a compartment inside the flat bed attachment. Slide the flat bed attachment to the left to open it.

aFlat bed attachment

bStorage compartment

Note

●Put the accessories in the bag, and then store the bag inside the compartment. If the accessories are not in a bag, they may fall out, and be lost or damaged.

NAMES OF MACHINE PARTS AND THEIR FUNCTIONS

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

The main parts

1

aBobbin winder (page 10)

bUpper tension-control dial (page 26)

cBobbin-winding thread guide and pretension disc (page 10)

dThread take-up lever (page 16)

eThread cutter (page 26)

fFlat bed attachment with accessory compartment (page 5 and 28)

gOperation buttons (page 6)

hOperation panel (page 6)

iSpool pin (page 7, 10 and 15)

jHandwheel

This is used to manually raise and lower the needle.

kAir vent

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

lMain power and sewing light switch (page 8)

mJack/socket connector (page 8)

nFoot controller (page 8)

oFoot controller jack/socket (page 8)

pFeed dog position lever (page 35 and 41)

qPresser foot lever (page 15)

rThread guide (page 11 and 16)

sThread guide cover (page 11 and 16)

tHandle

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

5

KNOWING YOUR SEWING MACHINE

Needle and presser foot section

aNeedle threader (for models equipped with the needle threader) (page 17)

bButtonhole lever (page 34 and 42)

cPresser foot holder

The presser foot is installed onto the presser foot holder.

dPresser foot holder screw

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

ePresser foot

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

fNeedle plate cover release

Use when removing the needle plate cover.

gNeedle plate cover

hFeed dogs

The feed dogs feed the fabric in the sewing direction.

iQuick-set bobbin (for models equipped with the quick-set bobbin)

You can start sewing without pulling up the bobbin thread.

jBobbin cover

kNeedle plate

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

lNeedle bar thread guide (page 16)

mPresser foot lever

Raise and lower the presser foot.

nNeedle clamp screw

Operation buttons

The operation buttons differ depending on the sewing machine model.

Press the reverse/reinforcement stitch button to sew reverse stitches. Reverse stitches are sewn by keeping the button pressed down to sew in the opposite direction. For details, refer to “Sewing reinforcement stitches” (page 26).

■ Buttons provided on some models

b Start/stop button

Press the start/stop button to start or stop sewing. The machine sews at a slow speed at the beginning of sewing while the button is depressed. When sewing is stopped, the needle is lowered in the fabric. For details, refer to “Starting to sew” (page 25).

cNeedle position button

Press this button to raise or lower the needle.

dSewing speed controller

Slide this controller to adjust the sewing speed.

Operation panel

The operation panel allows you to select a stitch and specify how the stitch will be sewn. The operation panel differs depending on the sewing machine model.

aLCD (liquid crystal display)

The number of the selected stitch (1), the presser foot type to be used (2), the stitch length (mm) (3), and the stitch width (mm) (4) are displayed here.

bStitch selection keys (page 24)

Select the number for the stitch that you wish to use.

cStitch length adjustment key

Press the “–” side to reduce the stitch length; press the “+” side to increase the stitch length.

dStitch width adjustment key

Press the “–” side to reduce the stitch width; press the “+” side to increase the stitch width.

■ Keys and indicators provided on some models

6 5

a Reverse/reinforcement stitch button

8 7

6

eUtility stitch key (page 24)

fUtility stitch indicator

This indicator lights up when the utility stitch key is pressed.

gCharacter stitch key (page 46)

Press this key to sew character stitches.

hCharacter stitch indicator

This indicator lights up when the character stitch key is pressed.

Spool pin

As shown, press down on the spool pin lever with your finger to raise the spool pin.

CAUTION

●Do not grab the bar to raise the spool pin, otherwise, the spool pin may bend or break.

■Storing the spool cap

The included spool cap (large, medium, small) can be stored by attaching it to the spool pin as shown in the illustration.

■Storing the spool pin

When placing the cover on the sewing machine or if the spool pin will not be used, return the spool pin to its storage position.

Press until it clicks.

■ Installing the spool pin

aInsert the tab on the spool pin into the hole.

1

a Hole

b Tab

bPush the spool pin down until it locks into place.

USING YOUR SEWING

MACHINE

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.

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 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

7

KNOWING YOUR SEWING MACHINE

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.

Power supply

aInsert the plug into a wall outlet.

1 2

aMain power switch

bJack/socket connector

bSet the main power switch to “I”.

The sewing lamp comes on when the machine is turned on.

cTo turn off the machine, set the main power switch to “”.

The sewing lamp goes off when the machine is turned off.

Note

●If a power outage occurs while the sewing machine is being operated, turn off the sewing machine and unplug the power supply 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 electric 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.

Foot controller

Insert the foot controller plug into its jack/socket.

a Foot controller jack/socket

CAUTION

●When connecting the foot controller, be sure to turn off the sewing machine in order to prevent the machine from accidentally being started.

Depress the foot controller to start sewing, and adjust the sewing speed by changing the pressing force.

Slower

Faster

You should make sure that nothing is placed on the foot controller when the machine is not in use.

CAUTION

●Do not allow pieces of cloth and dust to build up on the foot controller. Doing so could cause a fire or an electric shock.

8

Note

●When the foot controller is plugged in, the start/ stop button cannot be used to start sewing (only for models equipped with the start/stop button).

Sewing speed controller (for models equipped with the start/stop button)

aSlide the sewing speed controller to select the desired sewing speed.

a Sewing speed controller

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

Changing the needle stop position

Normally, the sewing machine is set to leave the needle in the fabric when sewing is stopped. Instead, the machine can be set to leave the needle raised when sewing is stopped.

aTurn off the sewing machine.

bHold down the “–” side of (a) and turn on the sewing machine.

cAfter turning on the sewing machine, release the “–” side of (a).

The needle stop position changes to the raised position.

Memo

•Perform the same operation to change the needle stop position to the lowered position.

Changing the initial needle position

Normally, the straight stitch (left needle position) is automatically selected when the sewing machine is

turned on. The initial needle position can be changed 1 to the straight stitch (center needle position).

aTurn off the sewing machine.

bHold down the “+” side of (b) and turn on the sewing machine.

cAfter turning on the sewing machine, release the “+” side of (b).

The initial needle position changes to the center needle position.

Memo

●The specified initial needle position is maintained even after the machine is turned off.

●Perform the same operation to change the initial needle position to the left needle position.

Cancelling the operation beep (for models equipped with the operation beep)

When the sewing machine is purchased, it is set to beep each time a key is pressed. This setting can be changed so that the machine does not beep.

aTurn off the sewing machine.

bHold down the “–” side of (c) and turn on the sewing machine.

cAfter turning on the sewing machine, release the “-” side of (c).

The machine is now set so that it will not beep.

Memo

●Perform the same operation to change the setting so that machine beeps.

9

KNOWING YOUR SEWING MACHINE

THREADING THE MACHINE

Winding the bobbin

This section describes how to wind the thread onto the bobbin.

• For details on the fast bobbin winding, see page 12.

aBobbin-winding thread guide

bBobbin winder shaft

cBobbin

CAUTION

●Only use bobbins (part code: SA156, SFB: XA5539-151) that have been designed for this sewing machine. Using other bobbins may cause damage to the machine.

●We designed the bobbin that comes with this machine. If you use bobbins from other models, the machine will not work properly. Only use the bobbin that comes with this machine or bobbins of the same type (part code: SA156, SFB: XA5539-151).

Actual size

11.5 mm (7/16 inch)

This model

Other models

aPress down on the spool pin lever to swing up the spool pin. Then remove the spool cap.

aSpool pin

bSpool cap

CAUTION

●Do not grab the bar to raise the spool pin, otherwise, the spool pin may bend or break.

●Be sure to raise the spool pin when winding the bobbin. The thread may become tangled if the bobbin winder is used without raising the spool pin.

bFully insert the spool of thread for the bobbin, and then slide the spool cap onto the spool pin.

•The thread should be unwound from the bottom to the front.

CAUTION

●If the spool or the spool cap is not positioned correctly, the thread may become tangled around the spool pin or the machine may be damaged.

●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.

Memo

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

c b

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

10

cPass the thread as illustrated bellow.

a Thread guide

b Thread guide cover

c Bobbin-winding thread guide

Make sure that the thread passes under the pretension disk.

dHook

ePretension disk

fPull it in as far as possible.

Note

●Make sure that the thread is pulled as far as possible into the pretension disk, otherwise the bobbin may not be wound cleanly.

Put the bobbin onto the bobbin winder shaft and

1

dslide the bobbin winder shaft to the right. Turn the bobbin clockwise, by hand, until the spring on the shaft slides into the notch in the bobbin.

•Make sure to pull out 7 to 10 cm (3 to 4 inches) of thread from the hole on the bobbin.

aSpring on the shaft

bNotch

c7-10 cm (3 to 4 inches)

CAUTION

●Pull the thread taut and hold the end of the thread straight up. If the thread is too short, not pulled taut or held at an angle, injuries may occur when the thread is wound around the bobbin.

eTurn on the sewing machine.

fWhile holding the end of the thread, gently press the foot controller or press (start/stop button) (for models equipped with the start/stop button) to wind the thread around the bobbin a few times. Then stop the machine and trim the excess thread.

Note

●If the sewing machine is to be operated using the foot controller, connect the foot controller before turning on the machine.

●When the foot controller is plugged in, the start/ stop button cannot be used to start sewing (only for models equipped with the start/stop button).

a 1 cm (3/8 inch)

11

KNOWING YOUR SEWING MACHINE

CAUTION

●Make sure you follow the instructions carefully. If you do not cut the thread completely, and the bobbin is wound, when the thread runs low it may tangle around the bobbin and cause the needle to break.

gSlide the sewing speed controller to the right (to set the speed to fast). (For models equipped with the sewing speed controller.)

a Sewing speed controller

hPress the foot controller or press (start/stop button) (for models equipped with the start/stop button) to start.

iWhen the bobbin seems full and begins spinning slowly, take your foot off the foot controller or

press (start/stop button) (for models equipped with the start/stop button).

jCut the thread, slide the bobbin winder shaft to the left and remove the bobbin.

kSlide the sewing speed controller back to its original position (for models equipped with the sewing speed controller).

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 bar does not move when you slide the bobbin winding shaft to the right.

CAUTION

●Not winding the bobbin properly may cause the thread tension to loosen, and may break the needle.

aWound evenly

bWound poorly

■For models equipped with the fast bobbin winding system

aPlace the bobbin on the bobbin winder shaft so that the spring on the shaft fits into the notch in the bobbin. Then slide the shaft to the right.

aNotch

bSpring

bFollow steps a through c of the procedure in “Winding the bobbin” to pass the thread around the pretension disk (page 10).

cWind the free end of the thread clockwise around the bobbin five or six times.

dPull the thread to the right and pass it through the slit in the bobbin winder seat.

a Slit (with built-in cutter)

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

eSlide the sewing speed controller to the right (to set the speed to fast) (for models equipped with the sewing speed controller).

a Sewing speed controller

12

fTurn on the sewing machine.

gPress the foot controller or press (start/stop button) (for models equipped with the start/stop button) to start.

Note

●If the sewing machine is to be operated using the foot controller, connect the foot controller before turning on the machine.

●When the foot controller is plugged in, the start/ stop button cannot be used to start sewing (only for models equipped with the start/stop button).

hWhen the bobbin begins spinning slowly, take your foot off the foot controller or press (start/stop button) (for models equipped with the start/stop button).

iCut the thread, slide the bobbin winder shaft to the left, and then remove the bobbin from the shaft.

jSlide the sewing speed controller back to its original position (for models equipped with the sewing speed controller).

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 bar does not move when you slide the bobbin winding shaft to the right.

Lower threading

Install the bobbin wound with thread.

• For more details on quick-set bobbin, see page 14.

CAUTION

●Winding the bobbin improperly may cause the thread tension to loosen, breaking the needle and resulting in injury.

1

aWound evenly

bWound poorly

●Make sure you turn the power off while threading the machine. If you accidentally step on the foot controller and the machine starts to sew, you could be injured.

Memo

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

aRaise the needle to its highest position by turning the handwheel toward you (counterclockwise) or press (needle position button) (for models equipped with the needle position button), and raise the presser foot lever.

bTurn off the sewing machine.

cSlide the button and open the cover.

1 2

a Cover

b Slide button

dPut the bobbin in so the thread comes out in the direction shown by the arrow.

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KNOWING YOUR SEWING MACHINE

CAUTION

●Make sure you set the bobbin so the thread unrolls in the right direction. If the thread unrolls in the wrong direction, it may cause the thread tension to be incorrect or break the needle.

eHold the end of the thread, push the bobbin down with your finger, and then pass the thread through the slit, as shown.

•If the thread is not correctly inserted, it may cause incorrect thread tension (page 26).

fReplace the bobbin cover.

•Replace the cover so that the end of the thread comes out from the left side of the cover (as shown by the line in the diagram).

■For models equipped with the quick-set bobbin

Memo

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

aRaise the needle to its highest position by turning the handwheel toward you (counterclockwise) or

press (needle position button) (for models equipped with the needle position button), and raise the presser foot lever.

bTurn off the sewing machine.

cSlide the button and open the cover.

1 2

a Cover

b Slide button

dPut the bobbin in so the thread comes out in the direction shown by the arrow.

CAUTION

●Make sure you set the bobbin so the thread unrolls in the right direction. If the thread unrolls in the wrong direction, it may cause the thread tension to be incorrect or break the needle.

eWhile lightly holding down the bobbin, guide the thread through the slit (a and b).

• At this time, check that the bobbin easily

rotates counterclockwise.

Then, pull the thread toward you to cut it with the cutter (c).

a Slit

b Cutter

Note

●If the thread is not correctly inserted through the tension-adjusting spring of the bobbin case, it may cause incorrect thread tension (page 26).

a Tension-adjusting spring

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fReplace the bobbin cover.

Memo

●You can begin sewing immediately without drawing up the bobbin thread. If you want to draw up the bobbin thread before you start to sew, follow to the procedure in “Drawing up the lower thread” (page 18).

Upper threading

Set the upper thread and thread the needle.

• For details on the needle threader, see page 17.

aSpool pin

bMark on the handwheel

CAUTION

●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 “Needle types and their uses” (page 19).

aTurn on the sewing machine.

bRaiselever.the presser foot using the presser foot

a Presser foot lever

CAUTION

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

cRaise the needle by turning the handwheel toward you (counterclockwise) so that the mark on the wheel points up, or press (needle position button) (for models equipped with the needle position button) once or twice to raise

the needle.

1

or

a Mark

b Needle position button

•If the needle is not correctly raised, the sewing machine can not be threaded. Be sure to turn the handwheel so that the mark on the wheel points up before threading the sewing machine.

dPress down on the spool pin lever to swing up the spool pin. Then remove the spool cap.

aSpool pin

bSpool cap

CAUTION

●Do not grab the bar to raise the spool pin, otherwise, the spool pin may bend or break.

●Be sure to raise the spool pin before use. If the spool of thread is in the wrong place, or is set incorrectly, the thread may tangle on the spool pin and cause the needle to break.

eFully insert the spool for the upper thread onto the spool pin.

Slide the spool cap onto the spool pin.

•The thread should be unwound from the bottom to the front.

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KNOWING YOUR SEWING MACHINE

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.

●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.

Memo

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

c b

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

fPass the thread as illustrated below.

a Thread guide

b Thread guide cover

gFeed the upper thread as illustrated below.

hMake sure to guide the thread through the thread take-up lever from right to left.

a Thread take-up lever

Memo

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

iPutguide.the thread behind the needle bar thread

a Needle bar thread guide

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jTurn off the sewing machine.

CAUTION

●Make sure you turn the power off while threading the machine without using the needle threader (for models equipped with the needle threader). If you accidentally step on the foot controller and the machine starts to sew, you could be injured.

kThread the needle from front to back and pull out about 5 cm (2 inches) of thread.

a 5 cm (2 inches)

Note

●If the thread take-up lever is lowered, the upper thread cannot be wrapped around the thread takeup lever. Make sure you raise the presser foot lever and the thread take-up lever before you feed the upper thread.

●If you incorrectly feed the thread you may cause sewing problems.

■Using the needle threader (for models equipped with the needle threader)

CAUTION

●The needle threader can be used with a 75/11 through 100/16 home sewing machine needle. However, the needle threader cannot be used with a 65/9 home sewing machine needle.

When using special thread such as transparent nylon thread or metallic thread, the needle threader cannot be used.

●Thread with a thickness of 130/120 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 “Upper threading” (page 15).

aFollow steps a through j of the procedure in “Upper threading”.

bLower the presser foot lever.

cWhile lowering the needle threader lever, hook the thread onto the guide.

1

a Needle holder b Needle threader

lever c Guide

dFully lower the needle threader lever.

The hook passes through the eye of the needle, and catch the thread.

aHook

bThread

eRelease the needle threader lever. Then pull the loop of the thread.

a Loop of thread

CAUTION

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

●If the thread does not pass through the eye of the needle, start from step c again.

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KNOWING YOUR SEWING MACHINE

fRaise the presser foot lever.

a Presser foot lever

gPass the end of the thread as illustrated bellow.

a 5 cm (2 inches)

Note

●If you incorrectly feed the thread you may cause sewing problems.

Drawing up the lower thread

aLightly hold the end of the upper thread.

a Upper thread

bWhile holding the end of the upper thread, raise the needle either by turning the handwheel toward you (counterclockwise) so that the mark

on the wheel points up or by pressing (needle position button) (for models equipped with the needle position button) once or twice.

or

a Mark

b Needle position button

cPullthread.on the upper thread to draw up the lower

a Upper thread b Lower thread

dPull out about 10 cm (4 inches) of both threads and pull them toward the back of the machine under the presser foot.

a Upper thread b Lower thread

■For models equipped with the quick-set bobbin

You can begin sewing immediately without drawing up the bobbin thread. When sewing gathers or darts, you can draw up the lower thread by hand so that some thread will be left over. Before you draw up the lower thread, put the bobbin back in.

aPass the thread along the slit in the direction of the arrow, and leave it there without cutting it.

• The bobbin cover should still be removed.

bDraw1 to 4up. the lower thread as described in steps

cReplace the bobbin cover.

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.

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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 injury.

Needle types and their uses

The sewing machine needle that should be used depends on the fabric and thread thickness.

Fabric Type/		Thread			Size of Needle
Application		Type	Size
	Broadcloth	Cotton
Medium		thread	60–90
	Taffeta	Synthetic			75/11–90/14
weight
		thread
fabrics
	Flannel,	Silk	50
	Gabardine	thread
	Lawn	Cotton
		thread
			60–90
Thin	Georgette	Synthetic			65/9–75/11
fabrics		thread
	Challis,	Silk	50
	Satin	thread
	Denim	Cotton	30	100/16
		thread	50
Thick	Corduroy	Synthetic
fabrics					90/14–100/16
		thread	50–60
	Tweed	Silk
		thread
Stretch	Jersey				Ball point
		Thread	50–60		needle
fabrics	Tricot	for knits			75/11–90/14
					(gold colored)
		Cotton
		thread	50–90
Easily frayed fabrics		Synthetic			65/9–90/14
		thread
		Silk	50
		thread
		Synthetic	30	100/16
For top-stitching		thread
		Silk	50–60		75/11–90/14
		thread

Note

●Never use a thread of weight 20 or lower. It may cause malfunctions.

Memo

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

■ Ball point needle

	Use the ball point needle when sewing on stretch
	fabrics or fabrics where skipped stitches easily
	occur.
	Use the ball point needle for best results when
	sewing patterns using monogramming foot “N”.	1
	■ Transparent nylon thread
	Use a 90/14 to 100/16 needle, regardless of the
	fabric or thread.

CAUTION

●The appropriate fabric, thread and needle combinations are shown in the table on the this page. 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

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

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

1

	a Flat side
2	b Needle type marking
	4
3	c Flat surface
	d Even

5

3

e Not even

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KNOWING YOUR SEWING MACHINE

Replacing the needle

aRaise the needle by turning the handwheel toward you (counterclockwise) so that the mark on the wheel points up. (With models equipped

with (needle position button), raise the needle by pressing once or twice.)

or

a Mark

b Needle position button

bTurn off the sewing machine.

CAUTION

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

cLower 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.

dRemove the needle by turning the needle clamp screw counterclockwise.

aDisc-shaped screwdriver

bNeedle clamp screw

Note

●If the needle clamp screw is loosened too much, the needle clamp (which holds the needle) may fall off. Therefore, do not loosen the needle clamp screw too much.

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

eWith the flat side of the needle toward the rear of the machine, insert the needle until it touches the needle stopper.

a Needle stopper

fTightenclockwise.the needle clamp screw by turning it

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 disc-shaped screwdriver, otherwise the needle may break or damage may result.

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