Brother PC 8500 User Manual

®
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS”
When using this machine, basic safety precautions should always be taken,
including the following:
DANGER – To reduce the risk of electric shock.
1. The machine should never be left unattended while plugged in. Always unplug the machine from the electrical outlet immediately after using and before cleaning.
2. Always unplug before changing the light bulb. Replace bulb with same type rated 12V 5 watts.
WARNING – To reduce the risk of burns, fire, electric shock, or injury to persons.
1. Do not allow this machine to be used as a toy. Close attention is necessary when the machine is used by or near children.
2. Use this machine only for its intended use as described in this manual. Use only accessories recommended by the manufacturer as contained in this manual.
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 dropped into water. Return the machine to the nearest authorized dealer or service center for examination, repair, electrical or mechanical adjustment.
4. Never operate the machine with any air openings blocked. Keep ventilation openings of the machine and foot control free from the accumulation of lint, dust, and loose cloth.
5. Never drop or insert any object into any opening.
6. Do not use outdoors.
7. Do not operate where aerosol (spray) products are being used or where oxygen is being administered.
8. To disconnect, turn the main switch to the symbol “O” position which represents off, then remove plug from outlet.
9. Do not unplug by pulling on cord. To unplug, grasp the plug, not the cord.
10.Keep fingers away from all moving parts. Special care is required around the machine needle.
11.Always use the proper needle plate. The wrong plate can cause the needle to break.
12.Do not use bent needles.
13.Do not pull or push fabric while stitching. It may deflect the needle causing it to break.
14.Switch the machine to the symbol “O” position when making any adjustments in the needle area, such as threading needle, changing needle, threading bobbin, or changing presser foot, and the like.
15. Always unplug the machine from the electrical outlet when removing covers, lubricating, or when making any other user servicing adjustments mentioned in the instruction manual.
16.This sewing machine is not intended for use by young children or infirm persons without supervision.
17.Young children should be supervised to ensure that they do not play with this machine.
“SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS”
“This machine is intended for household use.”
FOR USERS IN THE UK, EIRE, MALTA
AND CYPRUS ONLY.
If this machine is fitted with a three-pin non-rewireable BS plug then please read the following.
IMPORTANT
If the available socket outlet is not suitable for the plug supplied with this equipment, it should be cut off and an appropriate three-pin plug fitted. With alternative plugs an approved fuse must be fitted in the plug.
NOTE
The plug served from the main lead must be destroyed as a plug with bared flexible cords is hazardous if engaged in a live socket outlet. 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.
WARNING DO NOT CONNECT EITHER WIRE TO THE EARTH TERMINAL WHICH IS MARKED WITH THE LETTER ‘E’, BY THE EARTH SYMBOL OR COLOURED GREEN OR YELLOW.
The wires in this main lead are coloured in accordance with the following code:
Blue Neutral
Brown Live
As the colours of the wiring in the main lead of this appliance may not correspond with the coloured markings identifying the terminals in your plug, proceed as follows.
The wire which is coloured blue must be connected to the terminal which is marked with the letter ‘N’ or coloured black or blue.
The wire which is coloured brown must be connected to the terminal which is marked with the letter ‘L’ or coloured red or brown.
1
CONGRATULATIONS ON CHOOSING OUR MACHINE
Your machine is the most advanced computerized home use this machine available. To fully enjoy all the features incorporated we suggest that you study this booklet.
PLEASE READ BEFORE USING THIS MACHINE
For safe operation
1. Be sure to keep your eye on the needle while sewing. Do not touch the pulley, thread take-up, needle, or other moving parts.
2. Remember to turn off the power switch and unplug the cord when:
Operation is completed
Replacing or removing the needle or any other parts
A power failure occurs during use
Maintaining the machine
Leaving the machine unattended.
3. Do not store anything on the foot controller.
4. Plug the machine directly into the wall. Do not use extension cords.
For a longer service life
1. When storing this machine, avoid direct sunlight and high humidity locations. Do not store the machine beside a space heater, iron, or other hot objects.
2. Use only neutral soaps or detergents to clean the case. Benzene, thinner, and scouring powders can damage the case and machine, and should never be used.
3. Do not drop or hit the machine.
4. Always consult the operation manual when replacing or installing any assemblies, the presser feet, needle, or other parts to assure correct installation.
For repair or adjustment
In the event a malfunction occurs or adjustment is required, first follow the troubleshooting table in the back of the operation manual to inspect and adjust the machine yourself. If the problem persists, please consult your nearest authorized Brother service center.
AUTOMATIC REINFORCEMENT STITCHING _38
Cancelling automatic reinforcement stitching_____________________________38
AUTOMATIC THREAD CUTTING ___________39
Cancelling programmed automatic thread
cutting______________________________39 UTILITY STITCH SELECTION ______________40 USEFUL SKILLS_________________________42
The “ ” key______________________42
Sewing corners_______________________43
Sewing thick seams ___________________43
Sewing curves _______________________43
Sewing thick fabric ____________________44
Sewing thin fabric _____________________44
__________________________5
PRINCIPAL PARTS _______________________5 OTHER INCLUDED ACCESSORIES__________7 OPTIONS _______________________________8 POWER SUPPLY _________________________9 SELECTION KEYS_______________________10
Screen messages guide you through each operation____________________________10
OPERATION BUTTONS___________________11
Using the operation buttons _____________11
USING THE SCREEN KEYS _______________12
Examples of the keys on LCD ___________12 About the screen______________________12 If the LCD is hard to see when the power is
turned on____________________________13 Adjusting the brightness of the LCD_______13
HOW TO USE THE LANGUAGE SELECTION KEY___________________________________14
How to clear the language selection_______15 BOBBIN WINDING / BOBBIN THREAD SETTING ______________________________16
Winding the bobbin and setting the bobbin
thread ______________________________16
Setting the bobbin_____________________18 UPPER THREADING _____________________19
Thread according to number and arrow
marks on machine ____________________19
Auto-threading device__________________20
Using the extra spool pin and the net______21 START/STOP ___________________________22
“START/STOP” button _________________22
Foot controller________________________22
Mounting and Using the Knee Lifter _______23 STITCH WIDTH AND STITCH LENGTH ______24
Stitch width __________________________24
Stitch length _________________________25
Quick adjustment reference chart for stitch
width and stitch length _________________27 THREAD TENSION ______________________29
Correct tension _______________________29
Loosen tension by touching “ ” (Weak)___29
Tighten tension by touching “ ” (Strong)__30
Except “UTILITY STITCH” ______________30 CHANGING THE PRESSER FOOT __________31
Change the presser foot according to
the LCD message_____________________31
Installing embroidery foot “Q” ____________31
Changing the embroidery foot ___________32
Feed dog adjustment __________________33 CHANGING THE NEEDLE_________________34
Setting the needle securely _____________34
Checking needle______________________34 MACHINE OPERATION KEYS______________35
Utility
Stitches
Characters
and
Decorative
Stitches
Embroidering
Editing
Embroidery
Patterns
Retrieving
My
Custom
Stitch
TM
Maintenance
Error
Messages
Trouble
shooting
Sewing
Chart
Patterns
(Programmed
in Machine)
Patterns
(Memory
Card)
Sewing
Setting Up
2

CONTENTS

CHAPTER 1
CHAPTER 2
SETTING UP
1. SEWING _________________________36
TRIAL SEWING _________________________36
Sewing by using “UTILITY STITCH”_______36
2. UTILITY STITCHES _________________________45
STRAIGHT STITCHES____________________45
For reinforcement stretching on stretch fabric_______________________________46
Changing the stitch length ______________46 Changing the needle position____________46
ADAPTER FOR LOW SHANK ATTACHMENTS 47
Included accessories __________________47 Installation of walking foot_______________47
ZIGZAG STITCHES ______________________48
Overcasting (using a zigzag stitch)________48 Applique (using a zigzag stitch) __________48 Patchwork (for crazy quilt) ______________48
OVERCASTING _________________________49
When using , or stitches________49
When using , or stitches________49 OVERCASTING (When using the side cutter) __50 BLIND HEM STITCHES ___________________52
Adjusting the needle drop position ________53 BUTTONHOLE STITCHES_________________54
Order of one cycle ____________________56
Sewing stretch fabrics__________________56
Buttons that do not fit into the guide plate
(Odd-shaped buttons)__________________57
Changing the stitch length ______________57
Changing the stitch width _______________57 BAR TACKING __________________________58
Thick fabrics _________________________59
Changing the bar tack stitch length _______59
Changing the bar tack stitch width ________59 DARNING ______________________________60
Changing the length of the darning stitch___61
Changing the bar tack stitch width ________61
Darning stitch cycle____________________61 TAPE ATTACHING_______________________62 EYELET STITCH ________________________63
Size of eyelet (Actual size) ______________63 BUTTON SEWING _______________________64
Attaching buttons with four holes _________65
Attaching a shank to the button __________65 BASTING ______________________________66 ZIPPER INSERTION (CENTERED AND SIDE APPLICATION)_________________67
Centered application___________________67
Side application ______________________68 DART SEAM____________________________70 GATHERING____________________________71
Pulling out the bobbin thread ____________72 PINTUCK ______________________________73
_________________________88
CHARACTER SEWING ___________________88
Combinations of characters _____________89 DECORATIVE STITCHES _________________90 DECORATIVE STITCHES (7 mm) ___________91 SATIN STITCHES________________________92 CROSS STITCHING______________________93 CHARACTER AND
DECORATIVE STITCH ADJUSTMENT _______94
Changing the pattern size (Actual size) ____94
Single/repeat sewing __________________94
Elongation___________________________95
Changing the stitch length and
the stitch width _______________________96
Customize patterns by combining satin
stitches using the “ ” and “ ” keys ____97
Changing Mirror Image [Left and Right (the
” key), and Top and Bottom (the “
key)] _______________________________99
Confirming entry of combined
stitch patterns _______________________100
Saving combined stitch patterns_________100 SEWING ______________________________102
Sewing attractive finishes______________102
Using a pattern sheet _________________102
Sewing ____________________________103 ADJUSTING STITCH PATTERNS __________105
3
Utility
Stitches
Characters
and
Decorative
Stitches
Embroidering
Editing
Embroidery
Patterns
Retrieving
My
Custom
Stitch
TM
Maintenance
Error
Messages
Trouble
shooting
Sewing
Chart
Patterns
(Programmed
in Machine)
Patterns
(Memory
Card)
Sewing
Setting Up
FLAT FELL SEAM _______________________75
Finished flat fell seam__________________76 APPLIQUES ____________________________77
Sewing the applique around corners ______77 APPLIQUE QUILTS ______________________78 SCALLOP STITCH _______________________79 SMOCKING STITCH______________________80 PATCHWORK STITCH____________________81 FAGOTING _____________________________82 DECORATIVE STITCHING ________________83
Decorative stitching ___________________83
Shell tacking _________________________83 HEM-STITCH (HEIRLOOM STITCH) _________84
” hem-stitching ____________________84
” hem-stitching ____________________85 LATERAL SEWING (STRAIGHT/ZIGZAG)_____86
3.
CHARACTERS AND DECORATIVE STITCHES
4. EMBROIDERING ________________________106
PREPARATION BEFORE SEWING_________106
Attaching embroidery foot “Q”___________106 Fitting embroidery unit ________________107 Removing the embroidery unit __________108 Placing the embroidery unit into its case __108 Initializing the embroidery unit __________109
SELECTING AND SEWING PATTERNS _____110
Selecting alphabetical characters________110 Selecting one-point patterns____________111 Selecting frame patterns_______________112 Selecting floral alphabets ______________113 Selecting patterns from a memory card ___114
MEMORY _____________________________116
Saving a pattern combination in memory __116
EMBROIDERING _______________________117
Embroidering attractive finishes _________117 Setting the fabric into the embroidery
frame______________________________117 Fitting the embroidery frame to
the embroidery unit___________________119 Embroidering _______________________120
Embroidering a single color pattern when “MULTI COLOR” is displayed ______122
Changing the stitch density for characters and some frame patterns ______________122
MOVING THE LOCATION (LAYOUT) _______123
Moving the embroidery location _________124 Checking the embroidering area_________124 Embroidering from a specific starting point_125 Changing the pattern direction __________125 Reversing patterns ___________________126 Using the “IMAGE” key________________126 Changing the size of characters, frame
patterns and pattern __________________127
ADJUSTMENTS DURING THE EMBROIDERY PROCESS ____________________________129
If the thread breaks during embroidering __129 Continuing a pattern after the power
has been momentarily turned off ________129
When sewing again from the beginning.......130
EMBROIDERY APPLICATIONS____________131
Linking characters____________________131 Embroidering appliques
(using a frame pattern) ________________132 Embroidering onto small pieces
of fabric or onto corners _______________134
5. EDITING EMBROIDERY PATTERNS ________________________135
EMBROIDERY EDITING CAPABILITIES_____135
Explanation of the Editing Functions _____135
HOW TO EDIT _________________________136
Character Editing ____________________137 One-point Editing ____________________143 Border Pattern Editing ________________145 Editing Patterns on Embroidery Cards
(sold separately)_____________________146 Editing Combinations _________________147
SAVING A PATTERN COMBINATION TO MEMORY _____________________________151
Let's Sew __________________________153
CORRECTING EDITED PATTERNS ________154
Correcting another stitch pattern during editing_____________________________154
Correcting stitch patterns after editing ____155
6. RETRIEVING ________________________156
RETRIEVING CHARACTERS AND PATTERNS____________________________156
RETRIEVING AN EMBROIDERY PATTERN__157 RETRIEVING AN EDITED PATTERN _______158 DELETING A STORED PATTERN__________159
4
Utility
Stitches
Characters
and
Decorative
Stitches
Embroidering
Editing
Embroidery
Patterns
Retrieving
My
Custom
Stitch
TM
Maintenance
Error
Messages
Trouble
shooting
Sewing
Chart
Patterns
(Programmed
in Machine)
Patterns
(Memory
Card)
Sewing
Setting Up
7. MY CUSTOM STITCH
TM
(Function for making own stitch Designs)
________________________160
MAKING THE ILLUSTRATION_____________160 GENERATING THE DATA ________________162 EDITING AN EXISTING “ ” ________164
Moving a point ______________________164 Moving part or all of a pattern___________165 Inserting new points __________________165 Once you have finished editing__________166
STORING THE “ ” WHICH YOU HAVE ENTERED_____________________________167 RETRIEVING A “ ” ______________168
MAINTENANCE
________________________169
CLEANING ____________________________169
Cleaning the screen __________________169 Cleaning the machine surface __________169
Cleaning the shuttle __________________169 CHANGING THE LIGHT BULB_____________171 RELATED CHART OF SEWING FABRICS,
THREAD AND NEEDLE __________________172
ERROR MESSAGES
________________________173
Warning messages___________________173
Instruction messages _________________178
Alarms_____________________________179
TROUBLESHOOTING
________________________180
USING THE “OPERATION GUIDE” KEY _____180
Trouble with threads and stitches________181
Mechanical trouble ___________________182
PATTERNS (MEMORY CARD)
________________________191
One point mark embroidery pattern ______191
PATTERNS (PROGRAMMED IN MACHINE)
________________________186
Utility stitches _______________________186
Character sewing ____________________186
Character embroidering chart___________190
Frame pattern embroidering chart _______190
SEWING CHART
________________________183
*MY CUSTOM STITCHTM is under application for a registered trademark in the United States of America.
SETTING UP CHAPTER 1

PRINCIPAL PARTS

3
2
1
12
C
13
14
B
A
E
11
16
17
10
9
8
6
7
5
4
D
15
1– Handle 2– Spool cap 3– Thread guide for bobbin winding 4– Needle threader lever 5– Thread cutter 6– Buttonhole lever 7– Needle threader 8– Presser foot
9– Feed dog 10– Bobbin cover 11– Feed dog adjustment lever 12– Bobbin winder device 13– Balance wheel 14– Speed range control lever 15– Presser foot lever 16– Knee Lifter Mounting Slot 17– Knee Lifter
A–Main power switch and connectors B–Accessory compartment C–Selection keys (Refer to page 10) D–L.C.D. (Liquid Crystal Display) E–Operation buttons (Refer to page 11)
5
Utility
Stitches
Characters
and
Decorative
Stitches
Embroidering
Editing
Embroidery
Patterns
Retrieving
My
Custom
Stitch
TM
Maintenance
Error
Messages
Trouble
shooting
Sewing
Chart
Patterns
(Programmed
in Machine)
Patterns
(Memory
Card)
Sewing
Setting Up
Utility
Stitches
Characters
and
Decorative
Stitches
Embroidering
Editing
Embroidery
Patterns
Retrieving
My
Custom
Stitch
TM
Maintenance
Error
Messages
Trouble
shooting
Sewing
Chart
Patterns
(Programmed
in Machine)
Patterns
(Memory
Card)
Sewing
Setting Up
6
2
1
3
4
III
III
A. MAIN POWER SWITCH AND CONNECTORS
1 Card slot
Slot for memory card insertion.
2 Main power switch
Use to turn on/off the main power.
3 Controller jack
Insert for foot controller operation.
4 Power cord
Use to connect machine to power supply.
CAUTION – When leaving the machine unattended, the
main switch of the machine must be switched off or the plug must be removed from the socket-outlet.
– When servicing the machine, or when
removing covers or changing bulbs, the machine or the electrical set must be unplugged.
– For U.S.A. only
This appliance has a polarized plug (one blade wider than the other). To reduce the risk of 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.
B. FLAT BED ATTACHMENT WITH
ACCESSORY COMPARTMENT
I Tilt the lid of the accessory compartment
toward you to open. II Each presser foot has a symbol. 1 Presser foot symbol
III ACCESSORY LIST
The location of each accessory is shown in figure
III.
1 Buttonhole foot “A” X57789-101 2 Embroidery foot “Q” XA5891-101 3 Overcasting foot “G” X51162-001 4 Monogramming foot “N” X53840-301 5 Zipper foot “I” X59370-051 6 Zigzag foot “J” 137748-101 7 Blind stitch foot “R” X56409-001 8 Seam ripper X54243-001 9 Button fitting foot “M” 130489-001 0 Bobbin 136492-101 A Needle set X58358-001
No. Part Name Part Code
*
Always use the plastic bobbin which is supplied
with machine or in accessory compartment
.
*
Always use BROTHER accessories recommended
for this machine.
1
J
2
5
3
4
1
2A 1
9
0
876

OTHER INCLUDED ACCESSORIES

Utility
Stitches
Characters
and
Decorative
Stitches
Embroidering
Editing
Embroidery
Patterns
Retrieving
My
Custom
Stitch
TM
Maintenance
Error
Messages
Trouble
shooting
Sewing
Chart
Patterns
(Programmed
in Machine)
Patterns
(Memory
Card)
Sewing
Setting Up
123
456
789
10 11 12
13 14 15
17
16 18
19
21
20 22 23
24
25 26 27
28 29
30
31 32
No.Part Name
1 Bobbin (3) 136492-101 2 Seam ripper X54243-001 3 Screw XA5904-051 4 Scissors 184783-001 5 Chalk pen 184944-001 6 Cleaning brush XA4527-001 7 Eyelet punch 135793-001 8 Screwdriver (Large) X55467-051
9 Screwdriver (Small) X55468-051 10 Spool cap (Small) 130013-003 11 Spool cap (Large) 130012-003 12 Extra spool pin* XA3336-051 13 Spool felt X57045-001 14 Disc-shaped screwdriver XA2005-051 15 Walking foot* X81064-001 16 Side cutter X80943-001 17 Embroidery set (Regular) SA422 X80903-002 18 Embroidery frame (Regular) XA2171-101 19 Embroidery sheet (Regular) XA2212-001 20 Net* 127610-000 21 Embroidery set (Large) SA423 X80902-002 22 Embroidery frame (Large) XA2168-201 23 Embroidery sheet (Large) XA2209-001 24 Embroidery set (Small) SA421 X80904-102 25 Embroidery frame (Small) XA2174-101 26 Embroidery sheet (Small) XA2215-101 27 Screw* XA4813-051 28 Foot controller 234522-001 29 Pattern Sheet XA4595-001 30 Hard case XA1821-106 31 Knee Lifter XA6941-001 32 Embroidery bobbin thread SA-BTS X81164-001
Part Code
U.S.A. Others
* Use the same screw when installing both the
side cutter and the walking foot.
* If using special threads which wind quickly off
the thread spool, place a net on the spool before using.
* If using the walking foot,
please refer to the explanatory sheet which is inserted in the instruction book.
* The extra spool pin which is
provided as an accessory should be attached to the end of the bobbin winder shaft during use.
Note (For U.S.A. only)
Foot controller: Model J2 This foot controller can be used for this machine model PC-8500.
7
1
Brother poly 40 color thread set
SA740 X80928-100
2
Brother poly #60 bobbin thread
SA-BTS X81164-001
3
Backing material (Stabilizer material)
SA519 X81185-001 4 Country bag SA152 X80922-002 5 Grid sheet set SA500 X80948-001
Memory card*
No. 1 Alphabet SA298 X58317-001 No. 2 Flower SA299 X58321-001 No. 3 Dinosaur SA300 X58362-001 No. 6 Moskowitz’s World SA303 X58497-001 No. 7 Country Life SA304 X59322-001 No. 8 Holiday SA305 X59357-001
6 No. 9 Hobby Craft SA306 X59511-001
No. 10 Monogram Emblem
SA307 X59567-001
No. 11 Frame SA311 XA0257-001 No. 12 Transportation SA312 XA0275-001 No. 13 Sports Emblem SA313 XA0517-001 No. 14 Large Floral SA314 XA1223-001 No. 15 Cute Kids SA315 XA1325001 No. 16 Dogs & Cats SA316 XA1406-001 No. 17 Nintendo SA317 XA1434-001 No. 19 Marine SA319 XA2452-001 No. 20 Petite Designs SA320 XA2869-001 No. 21 Needlework SA321 XA2873-001 No. 26 Snoopy SA326 XA3826001 No. 27 Birds SA327 XA4289001 No. 28 Christmas SA328 XA4502001 No. 29 Lace SA329 XA4664001 No. 30 Wildlife animals SA330 XA4771001 No. 31 Large flower II SA331 XA5037001 No. 32 Musical instrument SA332 XA5386001 No. 33 Trees SA333 XA5567001 No. 35 Cats & dogs II SA335 XA5629001 No. 36 Fruits & vegetables SA336 XA5659001 No. 37 Applique alphabet SA337 XA5753001 No. 38 Angel SA338 XA5781001 No. 39 Doll face SA339 XA5978001 No. 40 Sports 3 SA340 XA6111001
Utility
Stitches
Characters
and
Decorative
Stitches
Embroidering
Editing
Embroidery
Patterns
Retrieving
My
Custom
Stitch
TM
Maintenance
Error
Messages
Trouble
shooting
Sewing
Chart
Patterns
(Programmed
in Machine)
Patterns
(Memory
Card)
Sewing
Setting Up
8

OPTIONS

1
2
3
4
5
6
No. Part Name
Part Code
U.S.A. Others
* This unit cannot be used in conjunction with
the memory card S-1.
WARNING – Embroidery Card purchased in foreign
countries may not work with your machine.
9
Utility
Stitches
Characters
and
Decorative
Stitches
Embroidering
Editing
Embroidery
Patterns
Retrieving
My
Custom
Stitch
TM
Maintenance
Error
Messages
Trouble
shooting
Sewing
Chart
Patterns
(Programmed
in Machine)
Patterns
(Memory
Card)
Sewing
Setting Up

POWER SUPPLY

1
WARNING – When leaving the machine unattended or when it is not being used, turn off the main power
switch of the machine or remove the plug from the wall outlet.
CAUTION – Do not use this sewing machine with extension cords or multi-plug adaptors, otherwise a fire or
an electric shock may occur.
– Do not remove the plug from the wall outlet with wet hands, otherwise an electric shock may
occur.
– When unplugging the power cord, turn off the main power switch of the machine, then grasp
the plug and pull to unplug the cord. Pulling on the cord may damage it or cause a fire or an electric shock.
– Do not allow the power cord to be cut, damaged, modified, forcefully bent, pulled, twisted or
bundled. In addition, do not place heavy objects on the cord or subject it to heat, otherwise the cord may be damaged or a fire or an electric shock may occur. If the power cord or plug are damaged, contact your nearest authorized Brother dealer or service center.
– If the machine is not to be used for a long period of time, unplug the power cord, otherwise a
fire may occur.
1. Insert the plug into a wall outlet.
1 Main power switch
2. Set the main power switch to “ I ”.
3. To turn off the machine, set the main power switch to “ O ”.
Utility
Stitches
Characters
and
Decorative
Stitches
Embroidering
Editing
Embroidery
Patterns
Retrieving
My
Custom
Stitch
TM
Maintenance
Error
Messages
Trouble
shooting
Sewing
Chart
Patterns
(Programmed
in Machine)
Patterns
(Memory
Card)
Sewing
Setting Up
10

SELECTION KEYS

Screen messages guide you through each operation
C. SELECTION KEYS
* Depending on the country of destination, the
selection keys may be displayed by means of characters or by illustrations.
1 “UTILITY STITCH” KEY
Use this key when you sew utility stitches such as straight stitches, buttonholes, etc.
2 “CHARACTER/DECORATIVE STITCH” KEY
Use this key to sew alphabetical characters and other decorative stitches.
3 “EMBROIDERY” KEY
Use this key when using a memory card and when embroidering pre-programmed patterns. When you insert or remove the memory card from the machine, the main power switch should always be turned off.
4 “EMBROIDERY EDIT” KEY
Use this key for embroidering patterns which are combinations of other patterns.
5 “OPERATION GUIDE” KEY
Use this key if you would like information on how to use machine functions such as upper threading, bobbin winding and bobbin thread setting.
6 “MEMORY RECALL” KEY
Use this key to retrieve combined patterns which have been saved in memory.
UTILITY STITCH
CHARACTER DECORATIVE
STITCH
EMBROIDERY
EMBROIDERY
EDIT
OPERATION
GUIDE
MEMORY
RECALL
1

OPERATION BUTTONS

Using the operation buttons
D. OPERATION BUTTONS
1 “THREAD CUTTER” BUTTON
When you press this button, both upper and bobbin threads are cut automatically.
2 “NEEDLE POSITION” BUTTON
Press to change the needle position from up to down or from down to up.
3 “REVERSE STITCH” BUTTON
The reverse stitch button is used to secure and end stitching with a reverse stitch or reinforcement stitch. The reverse stitch function stitches backward. The reinforcement stitch function stitches three times in the same position. (See page 38 for full instructions.)
4 “START/STOP” BUTTON
The button illuminates green when the machine is ready to be started and while sewing or embroidering. If starting is not possible, it illuminates red. In addition, it illuminates orange when the bobbin thread is being wound onto the bobbin (when the bobbin winder shaft is to the right).
* Sewing continues at low speed while the
button is pressed.
* The needle will drop to its lowest position
when the machine is stopped.
11
Utility
Stitches
Characters
and
Decorative
Stitches
Embroidering
Editing
Embroidery
Patterns
Retrieving
My
Custom
Stitch
TM
Maintenance
Error
Messages
Trouble
shooting
Sewing
Chart
Patterns
(Programmed
in Machine)
Patterns
(Memory
Card)
Sewing
Setting Up
3
START
4
STOP
2
1
1
4
3
2
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12

USING THE SCREEN KEYS

Examples of the keys on LCD
Touch a key on the screen with your finger to select the pattern which appears inside the key or to start the function or operation indicated inside the key.
CAUTION Be sure to touch the key with your finger only. Never use a pointed instrument such as a sharp pencil or a screwdriver or a hard object to touch the key. Furthermore, do not press down too hard on the screen, otherwise problems may result.
”:
Touch this key to return to the previous page.
”:
Touch this key to move to the next page.
“CHECK”:
If an error message appears, touch this to return to the original screen.
“CLOSE”:
If another screen is being displayed over the top of an advice screen, for example, touch this key to remove the topmost screen.
“RETURN”:
Touch this key to return to the previous screen.
“END”:
Touch this key to stop using the function.
“CONFIRM”:
Touch this key to start a function working.
About the screen
NOTES
– All or parts of the screen may become darker or lighter at times because of changes in the ambient
temperature around the screen. This is normal and is not the sign of a malfunction. Adjust the screen if it is difficult to read.
– The screen may be dark, immediately after the power is turned on. This is a feature of the light which
illuminates the screen, and is not the sign of a malfunction. The screen will return to its normal level of brightness after approximately 10 minutes.
13
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If the LCD is hard to see when the power is turned on
1. While touching the LCD (anywhere is OK), turn the power off and then back on again.
* The START/STOP button will not illuminate at
this time.
UTILITY STITCH
CHARACTER DECORATIVE
STITCH
EMBROIDERY
EMBROIDERY
EDIT
OPERATION
GUIDE
MEMORY
RECALL
2. Touch any one of the lower three selection keys (EMBROIDERY EDIT, OPERATION GUIDE or MEMORY RECALL). The LCD will become darker each time one of these keys is touched. If you would like to make the LCD lighter, touch any one of the upper three selection keys (UTILITY STITCH, CHARACTER/DECORATIVE STITCH or EMBROIDERY).
3. After you have finished adjusting, turn the power off and back on again once more.
Adjusting the brightness of the LCD.
1. Touch the “OPERATION GUIDE” key.
2. Touch the “BRIGHTNESS OF LCD” key.
1 Touch this key to make contrast less (lighter). 2 Touch this key to make contrast greater
(darker).
3 Touch this key to return to the screen which
was previously being displayed.
12
3
UTILITY STITCH
CHARACTER DECORATIVE
STITCH
EMBROIDERY
EMBROIDERY
EDIT
OPERATION
GUIDE
MEMORY
RECALL
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Setting Up
14

HOW TO USE THE LANGUAGE SELECTION KEY

You can use the “ ” key to easily change the display language for all the keys and messages on the LCD screen to the language you need.
1. Touch the “OPERATION GUIDE” key.
2. Touch the “ ” key.
3. The language display screen will then appear. Touch the key which corresponds to the desired language.
Example: To change the display language to
Spanish
1. Touch the “ ” key.
2. Touch “ESPAÑOL (SPANISH). This will change the language setting to Spanish.
3. The display will then return to the screen which was previously being displayed.
Note
* When the “ ” key is used to set the
display language, error messages will also be displayed in the language selected.
* The display language can be selected from a
list of 13 languages (English, German, French, Italian, Dutch, Spanish, Danish, Norwegian, Finnish, Swedish, Portuguese, Turkish and Chinese).
15
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How to clear the language selection
Example: To change the display language
from Spanish back to English
1. Touch the “OPERATION GUIDE” key.
2. Touch the “ ” key.
3. Touch the “ENGLISH” key. This will cancel the Spanish language setting and return all screen displays and error messages to the English language.
CAUTION – This function should not be used as a
translation function.
– If the power supply is turned off, the
current language setting will be retained and will not be cleared.
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Setting Up
16

BOBBIN WINDING / BOBBIN THREAD SETTING

Winding the bobbin and setting the bobbin thread
1. Connect the machine to the power supply and turn on the main power.
2. Place the spool of thread on the spool pin. The thread end should come from the bottom front of the spool. The spool cap closest to the thread spool size should be used to hold the spool securely on the spool pin.
1 Spool cap 2 Spool 3 Spool pin
* The spool cap should be pushed on as far as it will go.
Note
If using a fine thread such as cross wound thread, slightly separate the spool cap (small) from the spool of thread before using it.
1 Cross wound thread 2 Spool cap (small) 3 Gap
3. Steady the spool thread in your right hand, take the end of the thread in your left hand, and pass it through the guides in the order shown by the numbers.
3
2
6
7
9
4, 8
1
5
2
3
3
1
2
1
17
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2
1
2
1
4. Align the groove in the bobbin with the spring on the shaft and place the bobbin on the bobbin winder shaft. Then, push the bobbin winder shaft to the right.
1 Spring on the shaft 2 Groove of the bobbin
5. Wind the thread clockwise around the bobbin four or five times, pass the end of the thread through the slit in the bobbin winder seat, and then pull the thread in the direction shown in the illustration. Use the cutter to cut the thread.
1 Bobbin winder seat
6. Slide the speed range control lever to its maximum (as far to the right as possible).
7. Press the “START/STOP” button. The machine will stop automatically when the bobbin is full.
8. After the bobbin has stopped moving, press the “START/STOP” button to stop the machine.
9. Cut the thread, slide the bobbin winder shaft to the left and remove the bobbin.
1
1
2
3
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18
Setting the bobbin
1. Slide open the bobbin cover.
1 Bobbin cover 2 Bobbin cover release button
2. Insert the bobbin into the shuttle with the thread direction as noted in the diagram.
3. Guide the thread end through the slit, then pull the thread toward you to cut off any excess thread.
1 Built-in thread cutter
1
2
4. Close the bobbin cover by placing the left end in place and pressing down lightly on the right end so that it snaps into place.
* Sewing can begin without pulling out the bobbin thread.
1
1
2
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UPPER THREADING

Thread according to number and arrow marks on machine.
1. Raise the presser foot lever. (If the presser foot is not raised, the upper thread cannot be threaded.)
2. Press the “NEEDLE POSITION” button to raise the needle to the up position.
3. Set the thread spool. The thread end should come from the bottom front of the spool. The spool cap closest to the thread spool size should be used to hold the spool securely on the spool post.
3
4
1
6
5
2
*
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2
1
4. Steady the spool thread in your right hand, take the end of the thread in your left hand, and keep it taut while passing it through the guides in the order shown by the numbers.
Note
Incorrect threading may cause damage.
5. Lower the presser foot.
6. Thread the needle manually or using the auto-threading device.
* You do not need to pull the bobbin thread up before you
start sewing.
7. Pass the thread underneath the presser foot and pull it out from the rear of the machine by about 5 cm.
Note
Always raise the presser foot before removing the upper thread from the machine or damage may occur to the auto thread tension unit.
Threading the take-up lever
1 Thread take-up lever
Auto-threading device
1. Guide the thread through the wire loop and gently pull the thread towards you.
1 Needle threader lever 2 Guide (Large hook) 3 Wire loop
* Lowering the presser foot will engage the automatic tension
and will allow you to grip the thread as you proceed.
2. Lower the needle threader lever all the way down using your left index finger. Check that the thread is held by the guide (large hook) and that the hook on the needle threader has passed through the eye of the needle.
1 Second set of hooks 2 Third hook
3. As you lower the needle threader lever drape the thread to the left and the large hook will catch the thread. When the needle threader lever is in the lowest position, drape the thread across the eye of the needle.
Insert the thread firmly to the bottom of the guide.
4
5
4
1
5
1
2
5
11
2
3
21
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* Rotating your right hand slightly to check that the thread is
engaged.
4. While gently holding the thread, raise the needle threader lever.
5
5. Pull the thread towards the rear to finish the upper threading.
6. Pass the thread underneath the presser foot and pull it out from the rear of the machine by about 5 cm (1-15/16”).
Note
The auto-threading device cannot be used with the combinations shown at left. Transparent nylon thread can be used regardless of the chart providing needle used in 90/14 to 100/16.
Needle Thread (cotton)
65/9 #30, 50, 60 75/11 #30 90/14 #30
100/16 #20
Using the extra spool pin and the net
Extra spool pin
Use when embroidering with metallic thread.
1. Insert the extra spool pin into the end of the bobbin winder shaft.
2. Install the spool felt and the thread spool in that order, and then thread the upper thread.
1 Insert the extra spool pin into the end of the bobbin winder shaft 2 Spool felt 3 Thread spool
* When setting the thread spool, set it so that the thread winds off from the front of
the spool.
* If using metallic thread, we recommend that you use a 90/14 home sewing
machine needle.
Note
This method keeps the thread from twisting as it comes off the spool pin.
Net
If using special threads which wind quickly off the thread spool, attach a net to the spool before using. * Cut the net to match the size of the spool.
1 Net 2 Thread spool 3 Spool pin 4 Spool cap
3
1
2
1
2
34
4
3
5
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22

START/STOP

“START/STOP” button
1 Place the fabric under the presser foot, lower the presser
foot, and then press the “START/STOP” button. This machine starts sewing.
* Hold down the “START/STOP” button to sew at a slow
speed.
2. Press the “START/STOP” button to stop this machine.
Foot controller
Note
Do not allow fabric pieces and dust to collect in the foot controller. Doing so could cause a fire or an electric shock.
1. With this machine turned off, insert the foot controller plug into its jack on this machine.
1 Foot controller 2 Foot controller jack
2. Turn on this machine, then slowly depress the foot controller to start sewing.
* The speed set using the speed range control lever is the
foot controller’s maximum sewing speed.
3. Release the foot controller to stop this machine.
* When the foot controller is being used, the “START/STOP”
button has no effect on the sewing.
Note (For U.S.A. only)
Foot controller: Model J2 This foot controller can be used for this machine model PC-
8500.
1
2
23
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Setting Up
Mounting and Using the Knee Lifter
Align the knee lifter with the mounting slot and insert.
Use your knee to raise the knee lifter to the right in order to free both your hands for other tasks.
24
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Setting Up

STITCH WIDTH AND STITCH LENGTH

Stitch width
Increasing the stitch width
Touch the “ ” stitch width setting key.
The stitch width setting value will increase each time you touch the key.
Decreasing the stitch width
Touch the “ ” stitch width setting key.
The stitch width setting value will decrease each time you touch the key.
Sewing characters and patterns using satin stitches
Touch the “CHARACTER/DECORATIVE STITCH” key from the selection keys in the right side of the machine. Touch the “ ” key on the LCD screen.
* If you touch the “CLOSE” key, the display will return to the
previous screen.
Stitch length
Increasing the stitch length
Touch the “ ” stitch length setting key.
The stitch length setting value will increase each time you touch the key.
25
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Setting Up
26
Utility
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Setting Up
Decreasing the stitch length
Touch the “ ” stitch length setting key.
The stitch length setting value will decrease each time you touch the key.
* When sewing straight stitches, if the fabric thickness is less
than 1 mm, the stitch length is automatically changed to 4.0 mm at the sewing start to prevent gathering, even if you set the length to 5.0 mm.
Sewing characters and patterns using satin stitches
Press the “CHARACTER/DECORATIVE STITCH” key from the selection keys on the right side of the machine. Touch the “ ” key to adjust.
* If you touch the “CLOSE” key, the display will return to the
previous screen.
7.0 3.0–7.0 0.5 0.3–1.0
(1/4) (1/8–1/4) (1/32) (1/64–1/16)
Darning
7.0 2.5–7.0 2.0 0.4–2.5
(1/4) (3/32–1/4) (1/16) (1/64–1/16)
Bar tack
2.0 1.0–3.0 0.4 0.3–1.0
(1/16) (1/16–1/8) (1/64) (1/64–1/16)
Tape attaching
4.0 0.0–7.0 1.0 0.2–4.0
(3/16) (0.0–1/4) (1/16) (1/61–3/16)
Eyelet
7.0 7.0 6.0 5.0 7.0 7.0 6.0 5.0
(1/4) (1/4–3/16) (1/4) (1/4–3/16)
Button sewing
3.5 2.5–4.5
––
(1/8) (3/32–3/16)
Basting
0.0 0.0–7.0 20 5–30
(0.0) (0–1/4) (13/16)
(3/16–1-3/16)
3.5 2.5–5.0 2.5 1.6–2.5
Applique
(1/8) (3/32–3/16) (3/32) (1/16–3/32)
1.5 0.5–3.5 1.4 0.8–4.0
(1/16) (1/32–1/8) (1/64) (1/16–3/16)
Scallop
5.0 2.5–7.0 0.4 0.1–1.0
(3/16) (3/32–1/4) (1/64) (1/64–1/16)
Smocking stitch
5.0 1.5–7.0 1.6 0.2–4.0
(3/16) (1/16–1/4) (1/16) (1/64–1/16)
5.0 2.5–7.0 2.5 1.0–2.5
(3/16) (3/32–1/4) (3/32) (1/16–3/32)
Patchwork stitch
4.0 0.0–7.0 1.2 0.2–4.0
(1/16) (0.0–1/4) (1/16) (1/64–1/16)
5.0 0.0–7.0 1.2 0.2–4.0
(3/16) (0.0–1/4) (1/16) (1/64–1/16)
5.0 0.0–7.0 2.5 2.5–3.0
Fagoting
(3/16) (0.0–1/4) (3/32) (3/32–1/8)
5.0 2.5–7.0 2.5 1.0–2.5
(3/16) (3/32–1/4) (3/32) (1/16–3/32)
Straight [0.0 0.0–7.0 2.5 0.2–5.0
(Left) (0.0)] (0–1/4) (3/32) (1/64–3/16)
Straight
––
2.5 0.2–5.0
(Middle) (3/32) (1/64–3/16)
[0.0 0.0–7.0 2.5 1.5–2.5
Stretch stitch
(0.0)] (0–1/4) (3/32) (1/16–3/32)
1.0 1.0–3.0 2.5 1.0–4.0
(1/16) (1/16–1/8) (3/32) (1/16–3/16)
Zigzag
3.5 0.0–7.0 1.4 0.0–4.0
(1/8) (0–1/4) (1/16) (0–3/16)
5.0 1.5–7.0 1.0 0.2–4.0
Elastic zigzag
(3/16) (1/16–1/4) (1/16) (1/64–1/16)
5.0 1.5–7.0 1.0 0.2–4.0
(3/16) (1/16–1/4) (1/16) (1/64–1/16)
3.5 2.5–5.0 2.0 1.0–4.0
(1/8) (3/32–3/16) (1/16) (1/16–3/16)
5.0 2.5–5.0 2.5 1.0–4.0
(3/16) (3/32–3/16) (3/32) (1/16–3/16)
5.0 0.0–7.0 2.5 0.5–3.0
Overcasting
(3/16) (0.0–1/4) (3/32) (1/32–1/8)
5.0 3.5–5.0 2.5 1.0–4.0
(3/16) (1/8–3/16) (3/32) (1/16–3/16)
5.0 0.0–7.0 2.5 0.5–3.0
(3/16) (0.0–1/4) (3/32) (1/32–1/8)
4.0 0.0–7.0 4.0 1.0–4.0
(3/16) (0.0–1/4) (3/16) (1/16–3/16)
0.0 +3 – –3 2.0 1.0–3.5
Blind hem stitch
(0.0) (1/16) (1/16–1/8)
5.0 3.0–5.0 0.4 0.2–1.0
(3/16) (1/8–3/16) (1/64) (1/64–1/16)
5.0 3.0–5.0 0.4 0.2–1.0
(3/16) (1/8–3/16) (1/64) (1/64–1/16)
5.0 3.0–5.0 0.4 0.2–1.0
(3/16) (1/8–3/10) (1/64) (1/64–1/10)
Buttonhole 5.0 3.0–5.0 0.4 0.2–1.0
(3/16) (1/8–3/16) (1/64) (1/64–1/16)
6.0 3.0–6.0 1.0 0.5–2.0
(1/4) (1/8–1/4) (1/16) (1/32–1/16)
6.0 3.0–6.0 1.5 1.0–3.0
(1/4) (1/8–1/4) (1/16) (1/16–1/8)
5.0 0.0–6.0 2.0 0.2–5.0
(3/16) (0.0–1/4) (1/10) (1/64–3/16)
Quick adjustment reference chart for stitch width and stitch length
STITCH
Stitch width [mm (inch.)] Stitch length [mm (inch.)]
Auto. Manual Auto. Manual
STITCH
Stitch width [mm (inch.)] Stitch length [mm (inch.)]
Auto. Manual Auto. Manual
27
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