Brother Innov-is 55, Innov-is 55FE, Innov-is 85e Operation Manual

GETTING READY

SEWING BASICS

UTILITY STITCHES

APPENDIX

Operation Manual

Computerized Sewing Machine

Be sure to read this document before using the machine. We recommend that you keep this document nearby for future reference.

Product Code: 888-V14

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IMPORTANT SAFETY 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 in-

jury to persons.

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

in the instruction manual:

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• To unplug the machine, switch the machine to the symbol “O” position to turn it off, then grasp

the plug and pull it out of the electrical outlet. Do not pull on the cord.

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

• Always unplug your machine if the power is cut.

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

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

authorized 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 an odor, heat,

discoloration or deformation, stop using the machine and immediately unplug the power cord.

When transporting the sewing machine, be sure to carry it by its handle. Lifting the sewing

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

cause injuries.

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

otherwise you may injure your back or knees.

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4 Always keep your work area clear:

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

• Do not store objects on the foot controller.

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

• Never drop or insert any object into any opening.

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

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

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

5 Special care is required when sewing:

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

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

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

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

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

6 This machine is not a toy:

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

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

• Do not use outdoors.

7 For a longer service life:

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

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

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

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8 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

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SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS.

This machine is intended for household use.

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.

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.

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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.

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Contents

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

Introduction ........................................................................................................................8

Sewing Machine Features .................................................................................................... 8

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

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

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

Names of Machine Parts and Their Functions ................................................................... 11

Machine..........................................................................................................................................................11

Needle and presser foot section ......................................................................................................................12

Operation buttons...........................................................................................................................................12

Operation panel..............................................................................................................................................13

GETTING READY 15

Turning the Machine On/Off............................................................................................. 16

Power supply precautions ...............................................................................................................................16

Turning on the machine.................................................................................................................................. 17

Turning off the machine..................................................................................................................................17

Understanding the LCD Screens........................................................................................ 18

Changing the Machine Settings .........................................................................................19

Changing the settings ......................................................................................................................................19

Adjusting the brightness of the LCD ................................................................................................................21

Winding/Installing the Bobbin........................................................................................... 22

Bobbin precautions .........................................................................................................................................22

Winding the bobbin ........................................................................................................................................22

Installing the bobbin .......................................................................................................................................26

Upper Threading ...............................................................................................................28

Threading the upper thread .............................................................................................................................28

Threading the needle ...................................................................................................................................... 31

Threading the needle manually (without using the needle threader) ................................................................33

Using the twin needle ..................................................................................................................................... 33

Pulling up the bobbin thread...........................................................................................................................36

Replacing the Needle ........................................................................................................37

Needle precautions.........................................................................................................................................37

Needle types and their uses.............................................................................................................................38

Checking the needle ....................................................................................................................................... 39

Replacing the needle.......................................................................................................................................39

Replacing the Presser Foot ................................................................................................41

Presser foot precautions .................................................................................................................................. 41

Replacing the presser foot...............................................................................................................................41

Removing the presser foot holder.................................................................................................................... 43

Using the optional walking foot ......................................................................................................................44

Sewing Cylindrical or Large Pieces.................................................................................... 46

Stitching cylindrical pieces.............................................................................................................................. 46

Sewing large pieces of fabric........................................................................................................................... 46

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SEWING BASICS 49

Sewing............................................................................................................................... 50

General sewing procedure .............................................................................................................................. 50

Positioning the fabric ......................................................................................................................................51

Starting to sew.................................................................................................................................................52

Securing the stitching......................................................................................................................................54

Cutting the thread ...........................................................................................................................................56

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Adjusting the Thread Tension ............................................................................................ 57

Changing the tension of the upper thread ........................................................................................................ 57

Adjusting the Stitch Width and Length .............................................................................. 58

Adjusting the stitch width................................................................................................................................ 58

Adjusting the stitch length ............................................................................................................................... 59

Useful Functions................................................................................................................60

Changing the needle stop position ..................................................................................................................60

Automatically sewing reverse/reinforcement stitches................................................................................................ 60

Useful Sewing Tips ............................................................................................................ 62

Trial sewing ....................................................................................................................................................62

Changing the sewing direction................................................................................................................................. 62

Sewing curves.................................................................................................................................................62

Sewing thick fabrics ........................................................................................................................................62

Sewing thin fabrics..........................................................................................................................................63

Sewing stretch fabrics......................................................................................................................................63

Sewing an even seam allowance.....................................................................................................................64

Sewing hook-and-loop fastener ....................................................................................................................... 64

UTILITY STITCHES 65

Selecting Stitching .............................................................................................................66

Selecting stitch types and patterns................................................................................................................... 66

Selecting stitching ...........................................................................................................................................67

Overcasting Stitches ..........................................................................................................71

Sewing overcasting stitches using overcasting foot “G” ...................................................................................71

Sewing overcasting stitches using zigzag foot “J”............................................................................................. 72

Sewing overcasting stitches using the optional side cutter ...............................................................................73

Basic Stitching ................................................................................................................... 75

Basic stitching.................................................................................................................................................75

Blind Hem Stitching ..........................................................................................................77

Buttonhole Stitching/Button Sewing.................................................................................. 79

Buttonhole sewing ..........................................................................................................................................80

Button sewing .................................................................................................................................................84

Zipper Insertion................................................................................................................. 86

Inserting a centered zipper ..............................................................................................................................86

Inserting a side zipper .....................................................................................................................................88

Sewing Stretch Fabrics and Elastic Tape ............................................................................ 91

Stretch stitching...............................................................................................................................................91

Elastic attaching ..............................................................................................................................................91

Appliqué, Patchwork and Quilt Stitching ..........................................................................93

Appliqué stitching ...........................................................................................................................................94

Patchwork (crazy quilt) stitching ..................................................................................................................... 95

Piecing............................................................................................................................................................95

Quilting ..........................................................................................................................................................96

Free-motion quilting........................................................................................................................................97

Satin stitching using the sewing speed controller............................................................................................. 98

Reinforcement Stitching .................................................................................................. 100

Triple stretch stitching...................................................................................................................................100

Bar tack stitching...........................................................................................................................................100

Eyelet Stitching ................................................................................................................ 102

Decorative Stitching ........................................................................................................103

Fagoting........................................................................................................................................................104

Scallop stitching............................................................................................................................................105

Smocking......................................................................................................................................................105

Shell tuck stitching ........................................................................................................................................106

Joining ..........................................................................................................................................................107

Heirloom stitching ........................................................................................................................................107

Sewing the Various Built-In Decorative Patterns .............................................................110

Sewing beautiful patterns ..............................................................................................................................110

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Sewing patterns.............................................................................................................................................110

Combining patterns.......................................................................................................................................111

Repeat sewing patterns.................................................................................................................................. 112

Checking the selected pattern ....................................................................................................................... 112

Mirror imaging the pattern ............................................................................................................................ 113

Saving patterns..............................................................................................................................................114

Retrieving a pattern .......................................................................................................................................115

Realigning the pattern ...................................................................................................................................116

APPENDIX 119

Stitch Settings.................................................................................................................. 120

Utility stitches ...............................................................................................................................................120

Other stitches................................................................................................................................................124

Care and Maintenance ....................................................................................................126

Restrictions on oiling.....................................................................................................................................126

Cleaning the machine surface................................................................................................................................ 126

Cleaning the race..........................................................................................................................................126

Removing the needle plate............................................................................................................................127

Troubleshooting ..............................................................................................................128

Frequent troubleshooting topics ....................................................................................................................128

Upper thread tightened up ..................................................................................................................................... 128

Tangled thread on wrong side of fabric .........................................................................................................129

Incorrect thread tension ................................................................................................................................ 131

Fabric is caught in the machine and cannot be removed...............................................................................132

When the thread became tangled under the bobbin winder seat ...................................................................135

List of symptoms ...........................................................................................................................................137

Error messages ..............................................................................................................................................142

Nothing appears in the LCD.......................................................................................................................... 144

Operation beep.............................................................................................................................................144

Cancelling the operation beep ............................................................................................................................... 144

Index ................................................................................................................................ 146

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Introduction

Thank you for purchasing this sewing machine. Before using this sewing machine, carefully read the “Important Safety Instructions” (page 1), 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.

Sewing Machine Features

a Easy upper threading

Since the spool can be installed at the front of the sewing machine, the upper thread can easily be threaded. In addition, the needle can be threaded with a simple operation (page 28).

b One-touch lower threading

You can start sewing without pulling up the bobbin thread (page 26).

c Simple bobbin-winding

The bobbin can quickly and easily be wound with thread (page 22).

d Built-in stitches

You can select from the built-in stitches available, including utility stitches, character stitches and decorative stitches.

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Note

NS85e

Others

NS85e only

Accessories

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

Included accessories

The following items should also be included in the box.

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

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(For U.S.A. only)

z Foot controller: Model T

This foot controller can be used on the machine with product code 888-V14. The product code is mentioned on the machine rating plate.

z The screw for the presser foot holder is available

through your authorized dealer. (Part code: 132730-122)

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

19. 20. 21. 22. 23. 24. 25. 26.

27.

28.

29. * 75/11 2 needles

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

No. Part Name

1 Buttonhole foot “A” XC2691-033 16 Spool cap (large) 130012-024 2 Overcasting foot “G” XE6305-101 17 Spool cap (medium) XE1372-001 3 Monogramming foot “N” XD0810-031 18 Spool cap (small) 130013-124 4 Zipper foot “I” X59370-021 19 Extra spool pin XE2241-001 5

Zigzag foot “J” (on machine) 6 Blind stitch foot “R” XE2650-001 7 Button fitting foot “M” XE2643-001 XC8816-071 (other areas) 8 Seam ripper XZ5082-001 22 Operation manual XE2408-301 9 Bobbin (4) SA156

10 Needle set X58358-021 24 Accessory bag XC4487-021 11 Twin needle X59296-121 25 Disc-shaped screwdriver XC1074-051 12 Cleaning brush X59476-021 26 Stitch pattern plate XE2441-001 13 Eyelet punch XZ5051-001 27

14 Screwdriver (large) XC8349-021 28

15 Screwdriver (small) X55468-021 29 Wide table (NS85e only) SA552

Americas

Part Code

Others

XZ5134-001 20 Spool net XA5523-020

SFB (XA5539-151)

No. Part Name

21 Foot controller

23 Quick reference guide XE2416-001

Stitch pattern plate holder Soft cover (NS85e) XC1103-022 Hard case (Others) XE2446-001

Americas

Part Code

Others

XD0501-121 (EU area)

XE2238-001

WT8 (XE2472-001)

Accessories 9

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Memo

■ Attaching the stitch pattern plate

The stitch pattern plate shows the stitches and the stitch numbers. A letter (A, G, J, N or R) indicating the presser foot that should be used appears below the stitch number. Attach the stitch pattern plate to the stitch pattern plate holder, and then attach the holder to the handle of the sewing machine as shown in the illustration below.

Optional accessories

The following are available as optional accessories to be purchased separately.

1. 2. 3.*

* Included with machine

model NS85e.

4. 5. 6.

8. 9.

No. Part Name

1 Side cutter SA177

2 Quilting guide SA132

3 Wide table SA552

4 Walking foot SA140

5 Quilting foot SA129

6 Adjustable zipper/piping foot SA161

Americas

Part Code

Others

F054 (XC3879-152)

F016N (XC2215-052)

WT8 (XE2472-001)

F033N (XC2214-052)

F005N (XC1948-052)

F036N (XC1970-052)

10.

No. Part Name

7 Non stick foot SA114

8 Open toe foot

9 Stitch guide foot “P” SA160

10 1/4 inch quilting foot SA125

1/4 inch quilting foot with

guide

11.

Americas

SA186

SA147

SA185

z To obtain optional accessories or parts, contact the nearest authorized dealership.

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

notice.

Part Code

Others

F007N (XC1949-052)

F060 (XE1094-101)

F027N (XC1964-052)

F035N (XC1969-052)

F001N (XC1944-052)

F057 (XC7416-252)

z Visit your Brother dealer for a complete listing of optional accessories available for your machine.

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Names of Machine Parts and Their Functions

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

Machine

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a Bobbin winder (page 22)

Use the bobbin winder when winding the bobbin.

b Spool pin (page 22, 28)

Place a spool of thread on the spool pin.

c Thread tension dial (page 57)

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

d Bobbin-winding thread guide and pretension disk (page

22)

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

e Thread take-up lever (page 30)

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

f Thread cutter (page 56)

Pass the threads through the thread cutter to cut them.

g Flatbed attachment (page 46)

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

h Operation buttons (page 12)

Use these buttons and the slider to start the sewing machine and raise and lower the needle.

i Operation panel (page 13)

Use to select stitches and various other stitch settings.

j Handwheel

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

k Main power switch (page 17)

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

l Power supply jack (page 17)

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

m Foot controller jack (page 52)

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

n Feed dog position switch (page 85)

Use this switch to lower the feed dogs.

o Presser foot lever (page 28)

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

p Thread guide (page 24)

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

q Thread guide cover (page 24)

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

r Air vent

This vent allows the air surrounding the motor to circulate.

s Handle

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

Names of Machine Parts and Their Functions 11

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Needle and presser foot section

d Presser foot holder screw

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

e Presser foot

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

f Needle plate cover

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

g Feed dogs

The feed dogs feed the fabric.

h Quick lower threader

Begin sewing without pulling up the bobbin thread.

i Bobbin cover/race

Remove the bobbin cover to insert the bobbin into the race.

j Needle plate

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

k Needle bar thread guide

a Needle threader lever

Use the needle threader to thread the needle.

b Buttonhole lever

Lower the buttonhole lever when sewing buttonholes and bar tacks.

c Presser foot holder

The presser foot is attached to the presser foot holder.

Pass the upper thread through the needle bar thread guide.

l Presser foot lever

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

m Needle clamp screw

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

Operation buttons

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

a Start/stop button

Press the start/stop button to start or stop sewing. The machine sews at a low speed at the beginning of sewing while the button is continuously pressed. When sewing is stopped, the needle is lowered into the fabric. For details, refer to “Starting to sew” (page 52).

b Reverse/reinforcement stitch button

Press the reverse/reinforcement stitch button to sew reverse stitches or reinforcement stitches. Reverse stitches are sewn by keeping the button pressed down to sew in the opposite direction. Reinforcement stitches are sewn by sewing 3 to 5 stitches on top of each other. For details, refer to “Securing the stitching” (page 54).

c Needle position button

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

d Sewing speed controller

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

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1 2

Operation panel

The operation panel, located on the front at the right of the sewing machine, consists of the LCD (liquid crystal display) and keys for specifying various sewing settings.

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a LCD (liquid crystal display)

Settings for the selected stitch and error messages for incorrect operations appear in the LCD. Use keys b and f through n, described below, to display various items and select the settings. For details, refer to “Understanding the LCD Screens” (page 18).

b Settings key

Press this key to select sewing settings, such as for left/ right mirror imaging, or other settings such as the operation beep.

c Needle position key

Press this key to raise or lower the needle.

d Automatic reverse/reinforcement stitch key

Press this key to select the automatic reverse/ reinforcement stitching setting. Press this key again to cancel the setting.

e Needle mode selection key (single/twin)

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

f Stitch width keys

Press or to adjust the stitch width setting.

g Stitch length keys

Press or to adjust the stitch length setting.

■ Stitch mode keys (h-j)

h Preset utility stitch/saved pattern key

Press this key to select the utility stitch assigned to a numeric key or to retrieve a pattern that has been saved. Each time this key is pressed, the machine switches between the preset utility stitch mode and the saved pattern mode.

i Utility stitch key

Press this key to select a straight stitch, zigzag stitch, buttonhole, blind hem stitch, decorative stitch, satin stitch, or cross-stitch. Use the numeric keys to type in the number of the desired stitch.

j Character/utility decorative stitch key

Press this key to select character stitch mode or utility decorative stitch mode, where patterns can be combined. Each time this key is pressed, the machine switches between utility decorative stitch mode and character stitch mode.

k Memory key

Press this key to save stitch patterns, such as combined patterns, in the sewing machine's memory.

l OK key

Press this key to apply the selection or perform the operation.

m Cancel/clear 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.

n Numeric keys

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

Names of Machine Parts and Their Functions 13

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1 GETTING READY

The various preparations required before starting to sew are described in this chapter.

Turning the Machine On/Off .................................................................................. 16

Power supply precautions .................................................................................. 16

Turning on the machine ..................................................................................... 17

Turning off the machine .....................................................................................17

Understanding the LCD Screens..............................................................................18

Changing the Machine Settings ...............................................................................19

Changing the settings ......................................................................................... 19

Adjusting the brightness of the LCD ...................................................................21

Winding/Installing the Bobbin.................................................................................22

Bobbin precautions ............................................................................................ 22

Winding the bobbin ...........................................................................................22

Installing the bobbin ..........................................................................................26

Upper Threading ..................................................................................................... 28

Threading the upper thread................................................................................28

Threading the needle..........................................................................................31

Threading the needle manually (without using the needle threader)..................33

Using the twin needle ........................................................................................33

Pulling up the bobbin thread..............................................................................36

Replacing the Needle ..............................................................................................37

Needle precautions ............................................................................................ 37

Needle types and their uses................................................................................38

Checking the needle........................................................................................... 39

Replacing the needle ..........................................................................................39

Replacing the Presser Foot ......................................................................................41

Presser foot precautions ..................................................................................... 41

Replacing the presser foot .................................................................................. 41

Removing the presser foot holder ...................................................................... 43

Using the optional walking foot .........................................................................44

Sewing Cylindrical or Large Pieces..........................................................................46

Stitching cylindrical pieces.................................................................................46

Sewing large pieces of fabric..............................................................................46

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

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WARNING

CAUTION

Turning the Machine On/Off

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

Power supply precautions

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

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

● Make sure that the plugs on the power cord are firmly inserted into the electrical outlet and the power supply jack on the machine.

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

● Turn off the main power and remove the plug in the following circumstances:

• When you are away from the machine

• After using the machine

• When the power fails during use

• When the machine does not operate correctly due to a bad connection or a disconnection

• During electrical storms

● 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.

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Memo

Note

Turning on the machine

Prepare the included power cord.

Make sure that the sewing machine is turned

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

Insert the plug of the power cord into a

household electrical outlet.

a Main power switch b Power cord

Press the right side of the main power switch

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

Turning off the machine

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

Make sure that the machine is not sewing.

Press the left side of the main power switch on

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

X The sewing light and the LCD go off when

the machine is turned off.

Unplug the power cord from the electrical

outlet.

Grasp the plug when unplugging the power cord.

Unplug the power cord from the power supply

jack.

X The sewing light and the LCD come on

when the machine is turned on.

z When the machine is turned on, the needle

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

z If a power outage occurs while the sewing

machine is being operated, turn off the sewing machine and unplug the power cord. When restarting the sewing machine, follow the necessary procedure to correctly operate the machine. (For U.S.A. only)

z This appliance has a polarized plug (one

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

Turning the Machine On/Off 17

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Understanding the LCD Screens

The LCD screen, located on the front at the right of the sewing machine, displays the settings for the selected stitch and error messages if operations are performed incorrectly. The LCD displays the following information.

a Presser foot that should be used b Stitch mode c Twin needle/needle stop position d Automatic reverse/reinforcement stitches e Selected stitch f Stitch length (mm) g Stitch width (mm)

z For details on the error messages that appear when an operation is performed incorrectly, refer to “Error

messages” (page 142).

Changing the Machine Settings

Various sewing machine operations and sewing settings can be changed.

Press or (Stitch length keys) until the

Changing the settings

The general procedure for changing machine settings is described below.

Turn on the sewing machine.

X The LCD comes on.

Press (Settings key) in the operation

panel.

X The settings screen appears.

stitch or machine attribute that you wish to set

is displayed.

a Stitch length keys

Press or (Stitch width keys) until the

desired setting is selected.

X The setting is changed.

Press (OK key) or (Cancel/clear

key).

X The initial stitch screen appears again.

Changing the Machine Settings 19

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■ List of stitch or machine attributes

The stitch or machine attributes that can be set are listed below. For details on each attribute, refer to the corresponding reference page.

Attribute Icon Details Reference

Check pattern Allows combined patterns to be checked. page 112

Mirror imaging Mirror images patterns along a vertical axis. page 113

Repeated/ single sewing

Initial needle position

Stitch width control

Buzzer

LCD brightness Adjusts the brightness of the LCD. page 21

Vertical pattern adjustment

z The icon shown highlighted above is the default setting.

Specifies whether the pattern will be sewn once or repeatedly.

Select the straight stitch that is automatically selected when the machine is turned on.

Allows the stitch width to be adjusted with the sewing speed controller.

Specifies whether or not a beep is sounded with each operation.

Adjusts the up and down position of the pattern. page 116

page 112

page 98

page 144

Adjusting the brightness of the LCD

The brightness of the LCD can be adjusted.

Press (Settings key) in the operation

panel, and then press or (Stitch length

keys) until is displayed.

X The screen for changing the brightness of the

LCD appears.

To make the LCD brighter, press (Stitch

width key). To make the LCD darker, press

(Stitch width key).

X The brightness of the LCD is changed.

Press (OK key) or (Cancel/clear

key).

X The initial stitch screen appears again.

Changing the Machine Settings 21

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CAUTION

Memo

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

Winding/Installing the Bobbin

This section describes how to wind the thread onto the bobbin, and then insert the bobbin thread.

Bobbin precautions

Be sure to observe the following precautions concerning the bobbin.

● Only use the bobbin (part code: SA156, SFB(XA5539-151)) designed specifically for this sewing machine. Use of any other bobbin may result in injuries or damage to the machine.

● The included bobbin was designed specifically for this sewing 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)).

Winding the bobbin

Wind the thread around the bobbin to prepare the bobbin thread.

a Hook of the bobbin-winding thread guide b Pretension disk c Bobbin winder shaft d Bobbin

z The order that the machine should be threaded for winding the bobbin is indicated by a broken line on

the sewing machine. Be sure to thread the machine as indicated.

CAUTION

Turn on the sewing machine.

Place the bobbin on the bobbin winder shaft so

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

a Notch b Bobbin winder shaft spring

Slide the bobbin winder shaft to the right until

it snaps into place.

Place the spool of thread for the bobbin onto

the spool pin.

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

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

Slide the spool cap onto the spool pin.

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

Remove the spool cap that is inserted onto the

spool pin.

a Spool pin b Spool cap

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

● Three spool cap sizes are available (large, medium and small), 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.

Winding/Installing the Bobbin 23

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Note

Pass the thread under the thread guide cover

from the back to the front.

z When sewing with fine, cross-wound thread,

use the small spool cap, and leave a small space between the cap and the spool.

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

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

z When using thread that winds off quickly,

such as transparent nylon thread or metallic thread, place the spool net over the spool before placing the spool of thread onto the spool pin. If the spool net is too long, fold it to fit the size of the spool. When the spool net is used, the tension of

a Thread guide cover

Pull the thread to the right, pass it under the

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

the upper thread will slightly increase. Be sure to check the thread tension. For details, refer to “Adjusting the Thread Tension” (page 57).

a Spool net b Spool c Spool cap d Spool pin

While holding the spool with your right hand,

pull the thread with your left hand, and then pass the thread under the thread guide.

a Thread guide

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

z Make sure that the thread passes under the

pretension disk.

While using your left hand to hold the thread

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

CAUTION

Memo

Pass the end of the thread through the slit in

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

a Slit in bobbin winder seat (with built-in cutter)

X The thread is cut to a suitable length.

● Be sure to cut the thread as described. If the bobbin is wound without cutting the thread using the cutter built into the slit in the bobbin winder seat, the bobbin may not be wound correctly. In addition, the thread may become tangled in the bobbin or the needle may bend or break when the bobbin thread starts to run out.

Slide the sewing speed controller to the right

(for a faster sewing speed).

When the bobbin winding becomes slow, press

(start/stop button) once to stop the

machine.

When the foot controller is plugged in, remove your foot from the foot controller.

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

Cut the thread, slide the bobbin winder shaft

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

z If the bobbin winder shaft is set to the right

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

a Sewing speed controller

Press (start/stop button) once.

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

X The bobbin starts spinning and the thread is

wound around the bobbin.

a start/stop button

Slide the sewing speed controller back to its

original position.

z When the sewing machine is started or the

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

Winding/Installing the Bobbin 25

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Press (needle position button) once or

Installing the bobbin

Install the bobbin wound with thread.

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

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

●

The bobbin was designed specifically for

a Needle position button

Turn off the sewing machine.

this sewing machine. If bobbins from other models are used, the machine will not operate correctly. Use only the included

Slide the bobbin cover latch to the right.

bobbin or bobbins of the same type (part code: SA156, SFB(XA5539-151)).

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

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

z 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.

a Bobbin cover b Latch

X The bobbin cover opens.

Remove the bobbin cover.

Insert the bobbin with your right hand so that

the end of the thread is on the left, and then, after pulling the thread firmly around the tab with your left hand as shown, lightly pull the thread to guide it through the slit.

a Tab

• Be sure to insert the bobbin correctly.

CAUTION

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

● Be sure to install the bobbin so that the thread unwinds in the correct direction, otherwise the thread may break or the thread tension will be incorrect.

z 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.

a Flat spring

Reattach the bobbin cover.

While lightly holding down bobbin with your

right hand as shown, guide the thread through the slit (1 and 2).

• At this time, check that the bobbin easily rotates counterclockwise.

Then, pull the thread toward you to cut it with the cutter (3).

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

a Slit b Cutter (Cut the thread with the cutter.)

X The cutter cuts the thread.

X The lower threading is finished.

Next, thread the upper thread. Continue with the procedure in “Upper Threading” (page 28).

z 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” (page 36).

Winding/Installing the Bobbin 27

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CAUTION

a Spool pin b Mark on handwheel

Upper Threading

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

Threading the upper thread

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

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

● Use appropriate thread and needle combinations. For details on appropriate needle and thread combinations, refer to “Needle types and their uses” (page 38).

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

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

● If the needle threader cannot be used, refer to “Threading the needle manually (without using the needle threader)” (page 33).

Set the spool of thread on the spool pin, and then thread the machine.

Turn off the sewing machine.

Raise the presser foot lever.

a Presser foot lever

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

Turn on the sewing machine.

z The order that the machine should be

threaded is indicated by a solid line on the sewing machine. Be sure to thread the machine as indicated.

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