Brother SE-270D Operation Manual

Name: Brother SE-270D
Brand: Brother
SKU: 1225478
Rating: 4.5 (2 reviews)

4.5 (2)

Easy Thread Cassette System

Operation Manual

CPS5XV[Y

GETTING READY

SEWING BASICS

UTILITY STITCHES

EMBROIDERY

APPENDIX

Cover A

Included Accessories

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

damaged, contact your retailer.

Accessories

Note

(For U.S.A. only)

z Foot controller: Model N5V

This foot controller can be used on this machine model SE-270D.

z The screw of the presser foot holder is available through your authorized dealer.

(Part code: XA4813-051)

1. 2. 3. 4.

6. 7.

10.* 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19.

20.

21. 22.

23.

24. 25.

26. 27. 28. 29.

30.

31.

*75/11 2 needles

90/14 2 needles

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

No. Part Name

Part Code

No. Part Name

Part Code

U.S.A. Others U.S.A. Others

1 Buttonhole foot "A" XC2691-021 19 Foot controller XC6651-121

2 Overcasting foot "G" XC3098-051

Thread cassette set

(on machine)

SA250 TC1:XC4716-0233 Monogramming foot "N" X53840-351

4 Zipper foot "I" X59370-051

5 Zigzag foot "J" (on machine) XC3021-051 21 Needle-changing tool XC4551-020

6 Blind stitch foot "R" XC4051-051 22 Touch pen XA9940-021

7 Button fitting foot "M" X59375-151 23 Operation manual XC8545-021

8 Seam ripper X54243-001 24 Quick reference guide XC8556-021

9 Bobbin (4) SA156 SFB:XA5539-151 25 Spool cap (special) XA5752-021

10 Needle set X58358-051 26 Embroidery foot "Q" XC3829-021

11 Twin needle X59296-151 27

Embroidery set (medium)

H 10 cm X W 10 cm

(H 4 inch X W 4 inch)

SA432 EF62:XA6628-002

12 Cleaning brush X59476-051 28

Embroidery bobbin thread

(white)

SA-

EBT

EBT-CE:X81164-001

13 Eyelet punch 135783-001 29 Scissors XC1807-121

14 Screwdriver XC4237-021 30 Soft cover XC4842-022

15 Spool cap (large) 130012-054 31 Accessory bag XC4487-021

16 Spool cap (small) 130013-154

17 Extra spool pin XC3834-021

18 Spool net XA5523-050

Cover B

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.

Front view

a Thread cassette compartment cover

b Thread cassette compartment

Insert a thread cassette into the thread cassette

compartment.

c Thread cassette eject lever

Press this lever to eject the installed thread cassette.

d Thread tension dial

Use the thread tension dial to adjust the tension of the

upper thread.

e Thread cutter

Pass the threads through the thread cutter to cut them.

f Arm

Plug in the connector for the embroidery unit.

g Embroidery unit connector slot

Plug in the connector for the embroidery unit.

h Flap

Use the flap to create a table. When the sewing

machine is not being used, store the machine with the

flap folded up. Remove the flap to sew cylindrical

pieces such as sleeve cuffs.

i Sliding leg

Pull out the sliding leg during free-arm sewing.

j Operation buttons

Use the operation buttons to start the sewing machine

and raise and lower the needle. (page Cover D)

k Operation panel

Select a stitch from those that appear in the operation

panel. (page Cover E)

l Bobbin winder

Use the bobbin winder when winding the bobbin.

m Bobbin thread spool pin

Place the spool of thread for the bobbin onto this spool

pin in order to wind the bobbin.

n Bobbin storage compartment

Store the bobbins designed specifically for this sewing

machine in this compartment.

o Bobbin winder cover

Open this cover when winding the bobbin.

p Thread guide for bobbin winding

Pass the thread around this thread guide when winding

the bobbin thread.

Cover C

Needle and presser foot section

a Buttonhole lever

Lower the buttonhole lever when sewing buttonholes

and bar tacks.

b Needle bar thread hooks

Pass the upper thread through the needle bar thread

hooks.

c Needle plate

The needle plate is marked with guides for sewing

straight seams.

d Bobbin cover/Shuttle

Remove the bobbin cover, and then insert the bobbin

into the shuttle.

e Feed dogs

The feed dogs feed the fabric in the sewing direction.

f Presser foot

The presser foot applies pressure consistently on the

fabric as the sewing takes place. Attach the appropriate

presser foot for the selected stitching.

g Presser foot holder

The presser foot is installed onto the presser foot holder.

Right-side/rear view

a Handle

Carry the sewing machine by its handle when

transporting the machine.

b Balance wheel

Turn the balance wheel toward you to raise and lower

the needle to sew one stitch.

c Embroidery card slot

Insert the embroidery card.

d Main power switch

Use the main power switch to turn the sewing machine

on and off.

e Power supply jack

Insert the plug on the power supply cord into the power

supply jack.

f Foot controller jack

Insert the plug on the end of the foot controller cable

into the foot controller jack.

g Air vent

The air vent allows the air surrounding the motor to be

exchanged. Do not cover the air vent while the sewing

machine is being used.

h Feed dog position switch

Use the feed dog position switch to lower the feed dogs.

Memo

z Refer to Cover B, C, D or E pages while you

are learning to use your machine.

Cover D

Operation buttons

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

a Thread cassette indicator

The indicator lights up or goes off depending on the

condition of the sewing machine.

b Thread cutter button

Press the thread cutter button after sewing is stopped to

cut both the upper and the bobbin threads. For details,

refer to "Cutting the thread" (page 50).

c Needle position button

Press the needle position button to raise or lower the

needle. Pressing the button twice sews one stitch.

d Start/stop button

Press the start/stop button to start or stop sewing. The

machine sews at a slow speed at the beginning of

sewing while the button is depressed. When sewing is

stopped, the needle is lowered in the fabric. For details,

refer to "Starting to sew" (page 47).

e Presser foot lever

Raise and lower the presser foot lever to raise and lower

the presser foot.

f 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 49).

g Sewing speed controller

Slide the sewing speed controller to adjust the sewing

speed.

CAUTION

Note

z Do not press the thread cutter button if there

is no fabric under the presser foot or while

the machine is sewing, otherwise damage to

the machine may occur.

z When cutting thread thicker than #30, nylon

thread or other special threads, use the

thread cutter on the side of the machine. For

details, refer to "Cutting the thread" (page

50).

Green: A thread cassette can be inserted.

Red: A thread cassette cannot be inserted.

Off: The sewing machine has been turned

off or a thread cassette is already

inserted.

● Do not press the thread cutter button

after the threads have already been cut,

otherwise the needle may break, the

threads may become tangled or damage

to the machine may occur.

Cover E

Operation panel

The front operation panel has an LCD (liquid crystal display) and operation keys.

a LCD (liquid crystal display) (touch panel)

Selected pattern settings and messages are displayed.

Touch the keys displayed on the LCD to perform

operations.

For details, refer to "LCD (liquid crystal display)

operation" (page 12).

b Back key

Press to return to the previous LCD display.

c Previous page key

Displays the previous screen when there are items that

are not displayed on the LCD.

d Next page key

Displays the next screen when there are items that are

not displayed on the LCD.

e Embroidery key

When it is in embroidery, press to return to the initial

embroidery screen.

f Settings key

Press to set the needle stop position, the buzzer sound,

and more.

g Memory key

Press to enter character embroidery into the sewing

machine memory.

h Sewing machine help key

Press to get help on using the sewing machine.

Displays simple explanations of setting upper thread /

bobbin winding / setting bobbin thread / needle

replacement / embroidery unit attachment / embroidery

frame attachment / embroidery foot attachment / presser

foot replacement.

— — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — Introduction

Introduction

Thank you for purchasing this sewing machine. Before using this sewing machine, carefully read the

"Important Safety Instructions" (page 5), 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 Thread cassette

Easily thread the upper thread by loading a spool of thread into the thread cassette. Then, simply insert the thread cassette

into the compartment to thread the needle. (page 22)

b Simple bobbin-winding

The bobbin can quickly and easily be wound with thread. (page 16)

c Built-in stitches

You can select from the built-in stitches available, including utility stitches and decorative stitches. (page 64)

d One-touch lower threading

You can start sewing without pulling up the bobbin thread. (page 19)

e Automatic thread cutting

The thread can be cut automatically after sewing. (page 57)

f Embroidery

You can embroider built-in embroidery patterns, characters, framed decorations, and designs from optional embroidery

cards. (page 111)

— — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —

Contents

Included Accessories ............................................................................................... Cover A

Accessories ............................................................................................................................................ Cover A

Names of Machine Parts and Their Functions ......................................................... Cover B

Front view...............................................................................................................................................Cover B

Needle and presser foot section ............................................................................................................ Cover C

Right-side/rear view .............................................................................................................................. Cover C

Operation buttons..................................................................................................................................Cover D

Operation panel......................................................................................................................................Cover E

Introduction ........................................................................................................................1

Sewing Machine Features ....................................................................................................1

Important Safety Instructions ..............................................................................................5

GETTING READY 9

Turning the Machine On/Off............................................................................................. 10

Power supply precautions ...............................................................................................................................10

Turning on the machine.................................................................................................................................. 11

Turning off the machine..................................................................................................................................11

LCD (liquid crystal display) operation ............................................................................... 12

Viewing the LCD.............................................................................................................................................12

Changing the Machine Settings ....................................................................................................................... 13

Checking machine operating procedures ........................................................................................................15

Winding/Installing the Bobbin........................................................................................... 16

Bobbin precautions .........................................................................................................................................16

Winding the bobbin ........................................................................................................................................16

Installing the bobbin .......................................................................................................................................19

Upper Threading ...............................................................................................................21

About the spool of thread ................................................................................................................................21

Loading the spool into the thread cassette .......................................................................................................22

Threading the needle ...................................................................................................................................... 25

Using the extra spool pin ................................................................................................................................27

Thread the needle manually (without using the needle threader) .....................................................................28

Using the twin needle ..................................................................................................................................... 29

Pulling up the bobbin thread...........................................................................................................................31

Replacing the Needle ........................................................................................................33

Needle precautions.........................................................................................................................................33

Needle types and their uses............................................................................................................................. 34

Checking the needle .......................................................................................................................................35

Replacing the needle.......................................................................................................................................35

Replacing the Presser Foot ................................................................................................38

Presser foot precautions ..................................................................................................................................38

Replacing the presser foot...............................................................................................................................38

Removing the presser foot holder.................................................................................................................... 40

Sewing Cylindrical Pieces.................................................................................................. 41

Free-arm sewing..............................................................................................................................................41

SEWING BASICS 43

Sewing............................................................................................................................... 44

General sewing procedure .............................................................................................................................. 44

Selecting stitching ...........................................................................................................................................45

Positioning the fabric ......................................................................................................................................46

Starting to sew.................................................................................................................................................47

Securing the stitching......................................................................................................................................49

Cutting the thread ...........................................................................................................................................50

— — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —

Adjusting the Thread Tension ............................................................................................ 52

Thread tension ................................................................................................................................................52

Changing the upper thread tension..................................................................................................................53

Adjusting the Stitch Width and Length .............................................................................. 54

Adjusting the stitch width................................................................................................................................ 54

Adjusting the stitch length ...............................................................................................................................55

Useful Functions................................................................................................................56

Automatically sewing reverse/reinforcement stitches.......................................................................................56

Automatically cutting the thread .....................................................................................................................57

Mirroring stitches ............................................................................................................................................58

Useful Sewing Tips ............................................................................................................ 59

Trial sewing ....................................................................................................................................................59

Changing the sewing direction........................................................................................................................59

Sewing curves.................................................................................................................................................59

Sewing thick fabrics ........................................................................................................................................60

Sewing thin fabrics..........................................................................................................................................60

Sewing stretch fabrics......................................................................................................................................60

Sewing an even seam allowance..................................................................................................................... 61

UTILITY STITCHES 63

Stitch Settings.................................................................................................................... 64

Utility stitches .................................................................................................................................................64

Overcasting Stitches .......................................................................................................... 69

Sewing overcasting stitches using overcasting foot "G" ....................................................................................69

Sewing overcasting stitches using zigzag foot "J" ............................................................................................. 70

Sewing overcasting stitches using the optional side cutter ...............................................................................71

Basic Stitching ................................................................................................................... 73

Basting............................................................................................................................................................73

Basic stitching.................................................................................................................................................73

Blind Hem Stitching ..........................................................................................................75

Buttonhole Stitching .......................................................................................................... 77

Buttonhole sewing ..........................................................................................................................................78

Button sewing .................................................................................................................................................82

Zipper Insertion................................................................................................................. 84

Inserting a centered zipper ..............................................................................................................................84

Inserting a side zipper .....................................................................................................................................86

Sewing Stretch Fabrics and Elastic Tape ............................................................................ 89

Stretch stitching...............................................................................................................................................89

Elastic attaching ..............................................................................................................................................89

Appliqué, Patchwork and Quilt Stitching ..........................................................................91

Appliqué stitching ...........................................................................................................................................91

Patchwork (crazy quilt) stitching ..................................................................................................................... 93

Piecing............................................................................................................................................................93

Quilting ..........................................................................................................................................................94

Free-motion quilting........................................................................................................................................96

Satin stitching..................................................................................................................................................97

Reinforcement Stitching .................................................................................................... 98

Triple stretch stitching.....................................................................................................................................98

Bar tack stitching.............................................................................................................................................98

Darning......................................................................................................................................................... 100

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Heirloom stitching ........................................................................................................................................108

EMBROIDERY 111

Embroidering neatly ........................................................................................................112

What to prepare............................................................................................................................................112

Embroidery step by step ................................................................................................................................114

Attaching the embroidery foot ........................................................................................ 115

Attaching the embroidery foot....................................................................................................................... 115

Removing the embroidery foot ...................................................................................................................... 117

Attaching the embroidery unit ........................................................................................118

Embroidery unit precautions ......................................................................................................................... 118

Attaching the embroidery unit....................................................................................................................... 118

Removing the embroidery unit ...................................................................................................................... 120

Preparing the fabric.........................................................................................................122

Attaching a stabilizer material to the fabric ................................................................................................... 122

Setting the fabric in the embroidery frame.....................................................................................................123

Attaching the embroidery frame .....................................................................................126

Attaching the embroidery frame .................................................................................................................... 126

Removing the embroidery frame ................................................................................................................... 127

Selecting embroidery patterns......................................................................................... 128

Copyright Information .................................................................................................................................. 128

Embroidery pattern types...............................................................................................................................128

LCD (liquid crystal display) operation ...........................................................................................................129

Selecting characters ......................................................................................................................................130

Selecting embroidery patterns ....................................................................................................................... 131

Selecting a frame pattern............................................................................................................................... 132

Using an embroidery card ............................................................................................................................133

Embroidering................................................................................................................... 134

Embroidering a pattern.................................................................................................................................. 134

Appliquéing .................................................................................................................................................136

Convenient Functions ...................................................................................................... 138

Adjusting the layout......................................................................................................................................138

Storing characters..........................................................................................................................................139

Adjusting the thread tension.......................................................................................................................... 141

Resewing ......................................................................................................................................................141

Thread runs out partway through a design.....................................................................................................142

Stopping while embroidering ........................................................................................................................142

APPENDIX 145

Maintenance.................................................................................................................... 146

Cleaning the machine surface .......................................................................................................................146

Cleaning the shuttle ......................................................................................................................................146

Troubleshooting ..............................................................................................................148

Error messages ..............................................................................................................................................153

Nothing appears in the LCD.......................................................................................................................... 155

Operation beep.............................................................................................................................................155

Cancelling the operation beep ......................................................................................................................156

Index ................................................................................................................................157

Important Safety Instructions

When using this machine, basic safety precautions should always be taken, including the following:

Read all instructions before using.

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.

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 " " 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 " " 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.

18.If the Light unit is damaged, it must be replaced by authorized dealer.

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 GREEN AND YELLOW.

The wires in this main lead are colored in accordance with the following code:

As the colors of the wiring in the main lead of this appliance may not correspond with the colored

markings identifying the terminals in your plug, proceed as follows.

The wire which is colored blue must be connected to the terminal which is marked with the letter

‘N’ or colored black or blue.

The wire which is colored brown must be connected to the terminal which is marked with the letter

‘L’ or colored red or brown.

Blue Neutral

Brown Live

CONGRATULATIONS ON CHOOSING OUR MACHINE

Your machine is one of the most advanced computerized household sewing machines. To fully

enjoy all the features, we suggest that you study the manual before using the machine.

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 balance wheel, thread

take-up lever, needle, or other moving parts.

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

• Operation is completed

• Replacing or removing the needle or any other parts

• A power failure occurs during use

• Maintaining the machine

• Leaving the machine unattended

3. Do not store anything on the foot controller.

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

For a longer service life

1. When storing this machine, avoid direct sunlight and high humidity locations. Do not use or store

the machine near a space heater, iron, halogen lamp, or other hot objects.

2. Use only neutral soaps or detergents to clean the case. Benzene, thinner, and scouring powders

can damage the case and machine, and should never be used.

3. Do not drop or hit the machine.

4. Always consult the operation manual when replacing or installing any assemblies, the presser

feet, needle, or other parts to assure correct installation.

For repair or adjustment

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

the back of the operation manual to inspect and adjust the machine yourself. If the problem persists,

please consult your local authorized Brother dealer.

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

1 GETTING READY

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

Turning the Machine On/Off .................................................................................. 10

LCD (liquid crystal display) operation .....................................................................12

Winding/Installing the Bobbin.................................................................................16

Upper Threading ..................................................................................................... 21

Replacing the Needle ..............................................................................................33

Replacing the Presser Foot ......................................................................................38

Sewing Cylindrical Pieces........................................................................................41

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

Turning the Machine On/Off

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

Power supply precautions

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

WARNING

CAUTION

● Use only regular household electricity for the power source. Using other power sources may

result in fire, electric shock, or damage to the machine.

● 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

● 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.

Turning the Machine On/Off 11

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 supply cord into the

power supply jack on the right side of the

machine.

Insert the plug of the power supply cord into a

household electrical outlet.

a Power supply jack

Press the right side of the main power switch

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

X The sewing lamp comes on when the

machine is turned on.

Fold the flap at the front of the sewing

machine down toward you.

Turning off the machine

When you are finished using the sewing machine,

turn it off. In addition, before transporting the sewing

machine to another location, be sure to turn it off.

Make sure that the machine is not sewing.

Press the left side of the main power switch on

the right side of the machine (set it to " ").

X The sewing lamp goes off when the machine

is turned off.

Unplug the power supply cord from the

electrical outlet.

Grasp the plug when unplugging the power

supply cord.

Unplug the power supply cord from the power

supply jack.

Note

z If a power outage occurs while the sewing

machine is being operated, turn off the

sewing machine and unplug the power

supply cord. When restarting the sewing

machine, follow the necessary procedure to

correctly operate the machine.

(For U.S.A. only)

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.

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

LCD (liquid crystal display) operation

Selected stitch, pattern settings and messages are displayed on the LCD (liquid crystal display) on the front

of the sewing machine.

Viewing the LCD

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

The LCD display is changed using the keys on the right, and operations

performed by directly touching the LCD.

If it is difficult to press the buttons on the LCD by hand, you can use the touch pen to operate the LCD display.

■ Utility stitch selection screen

a Selected stitch

b Presser foot to be used

c Stitches

d Stitch width (mm)

e Stitch length (mm)

f Automatic reverse/reinforcement

g Automatic thread cutting

h Horizontal mirror image key

i Number of stitches in group

j Number of the selected stitch

k Increase value

l Decrease value

Memo

z A different screen is displayed when the embroidery unit is attached.

z Refer to "Error messages" (page 153) for messages displayed on the LCD.

z Depending on the model of sewing machine, an animation may be displayed when the power is turned

on. When an animation is displayed, the screen above will be displayed if you touch the LCD with

your finger.

LCD (liquid crystal display) operation 13

Changing the Machine Settings

Various sewing machine operations and sewing settings can be changed.

The stitch or machine attributes that can be set are listed below.

Turn on the sewing machine.

X The LCD comes on.

Press (Settings key) on the display panel.

X The settings screen appears.

Attribute Icon Details Settings

Thread color/

needle count

You can switch among thread color/thread

number/needle count when embroidering.

Thread color/Embroidery thread

number/Country Embroidery thread

number/Needle count/Time to

Embroider (after is pressed)

Needle

position

Specifies where the needle is positioned

when the sewing machine is stopped.

Down Up

Twin needle

sewing

Specifies the twin needle.

Normal needle Twin needle

Thread color

index

When embroidery data containing custom

thread colors specified with the PE-DESIGN

Ver.5.0 is saved on a blank card, the stored

custom thread colors are displayed on the

machine, if "ON" is selected for this setting.

Automatic

thread cutting

for embroidery

Press this key to use the automatic thread

cutting function when embroidering.

Stitch width

control

Allows the stitch width to be adjusted with

the sewing speed controller.

Buzzer

Specifies whether or not a beep is sounded

with each operation (page 156).

Opening

screen

Sets whether or not to display the opening

screen when the power is turned on.

(There are models where this cannot be

changed.)

Language

Allows the language used in the screens to

be changed.

English, French, German, Dutch,

Spanish, Italian, Danish,

Norwegian, Finnish, Swedish,

Portuguese, Russian, Japanese,

Korean or others

LCD brightness

Adjusts the brightness of the LCD.

Lighter Darker

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

Press the item to be set.

Switch screens using (Previous page key)

and (Next page key).

• The items shown in reverse highlighting are

the settings at the time of purchase.

 Example: Changing the needle stop position

When settings are complete, press (Back

key).

X The initial screen appears again.

Note

z The "Thread color index" is the color

number display used when embroidery

cards made by "PE-Design" are used.

z The "NO." is the number for the sewing

machine.

z Settings that are changed are not lost when

the power is turned off.

LCD (liquid crystal display) operation 15

Checking machine operating

procedures

Displays simple explanations of setting upper thread /

bobbin winding / setting bobbin thread / needle

replacement / embroidery unit attachment /

embroidery frame attachment / embroidery foot

attachment / presser foot replacement on the LCD.

Turn on the sewing machine.

X The LCD comes on.

Press (Sewing machine help key) on the

display panel.

X The sewing machine help screen appears.

Press the item to be displayed.

a Threading the upper thread

b Winding the bobbin

c Installing the bobbin

d Needle replacement

e Embroidery unit attachment

f Embroidery frame attachment

g embroidery foot attachment

h Replacing the presser foot

X The first screen describing the procedure for

the selected topic appears.

• Pressing (Back key), returns you to the

item selection screen.

Press (Next page key) to switch to the

next page.

If you press (Previous page key), you return

to the previous page.

 Example: Upper threading

After you finish looking, press (Back key)

two times.

X The initial stitch screen appears again.

Note

z For details on each topic, refer to the

corresponding page in this Operation

Manual.

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

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.

CAUTION

Winding the bobbin

Wind the thread around the bobbin to prepare the

bobbin thread.

Turn on the sewing machine.

Open the bobbin winder cover at the top on

the right side of the sewing machine.

Raise until it stops with a click.

Swing up the bobbin thread spool pin.

Move the bobbin thread spool pin up as far as

possible.

a Bobbin thread spool pin

● 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 older 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).

● Please use a transparent bobbin.

11.5 mm

Actual size

This model

Older model

(7/16 inch)

Winding/Installing the Bobbin 17

Place the bobbin on the bobbin winder shaft so

that the spring on the shaft fits into the notch

in the bobbin.

a Notch

b Bobbin winder shaft spring

Slide the bobbin winder shaft to the right.

Place the spool of thread for the bobbin onto

the bobbin thread spool pin.

• Use the special Brother embroidery bobbin

thread when embroidering.

Slide the spool cap onto the bobbin thread

spool pin.

With the rounded side of the spool cap

positioned toward the left, slide the spool cap

onto the bobbin thread spool pin as far as

possible until the right side of the spool touches

the right end of the bobbin thread spool pin.

CAUTION

Note

z If a spool of thread 12 mm (1/2 inch) in

diameter and 75 mm (3 inch) high is inserted

onto the bobbin thread spool pin, use the

special spool cap.

a 12 mm (1/2 inch)

b 75 mm (3 inch)

● Two spool cap sizes are available,

allowing you to choose a spool cap that

best fits the size of spool being used. If the

spool cap is too small for the spool being

used, the thread may catch on the slit in

the spool or the needle may break.

●

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

Memo

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.

a Spool net

b Spool

c Spool pin

d Spool cap

Pull out some thread, and then thread the

thread guide for bobbin winding.

Be sure that the thread is fully in the two thread

guides for bobbin winding.

a Thread guide for bobbin winding

b Two slits

Wind the thread that was pulled out onto the

bobbin.

Wind the thread that was pulled clockwise five

or six times without any slack.

Pull the thread to the right and pass it through

the slit in the bobbin winder seat.

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

X The thread is cut to a suitable length.

CAUTION

Slide the sewing speed controller to the right

(so that the speed will be fast).

a Sewing speed controller

Press (Start/stop button) once.

a Start/stop button

• If it does not start when the start/stop button

is pressed, an animation is displayed on the

LCD. Press the start/stop button after

touching the LCD.

● Be sure to cut the thread as described. If

the bobbin is wound without cutting the

thread using the cutter built into the slit in

the bobbin winder seat, the thread may

become tangled in the bobbin or the

needle may bend or break when the

bobbin thread starts to run out.

Winding/Installing the Bobbin 19

X The bobbin starts spinning and winding the

thread, and "Winding bobbin thread..."

appears on the LCD.

X When winding is complete, the bobbin stops

spinning or spins freely.

When the bobbin either stops spinning or spins

freely, press (Start/stop button).

X The sewing machine stops, and the

"Winding bobbin thread..." display

disappears from the LCD.

Use scissors to cut the end of the thread

wound around the bobbin.

Slide the bobbin winder shaft to the left.

Remove the bobbin from the shaft.

Remove the spool cap and spool.

Swing down the bobbin thread spool pin, close

the bobbin winder cover, and then slide the

sewing speed controller back to its original

position.

Memo

z When the sewing machine is started or the

balance wheel is turned after winding the

bobbin, the machine will make a clicking

sound; this is not a malfunction.

Installing the bobbin

Install the bobbin wound with thread.

CAUTION

Slide the bobbin cover latch to the right.

a Bobbin cover

b Latch

X The bobbin cover opens.

Remove the bobbin cover.

Hold the bobbin with your right hand and hold

the end of the thread with your left.

• Be careful not to drop the bobbin.

● 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

this sewing machine. If bobbins from older

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).

Actual size

11.5 mm

This model Older model

(7/16 inch)

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

Insert the bobbin into the shuttle so that the

thread unrolls to the left.

• Be sure to insert the bobbin correctly.

CAUTION

Memo

z The order that the bobbin thread should be

passed through the shuttle is indicated by

marks around the shuttle. Be sure to thread

the machine as indicated.

Lightly hold down the bobbin with your right

hand, and then guide the thread as shown with

your left hand.

Pass the thread through the slot as shown, and

then pull the thread out toward the front.

a Cutter

X The cutter cuts the thread.

• Make sure that the thread is correctly inserted

through the tension-adjusting spring of the

shuttle. If it is not inserted, re-insert the

thread.

a Tension-adjusting spring

Reattach the bobbin cover.

Insert the tab in the lower-left corner of the

bobbin cover, and then lightly press down on

the right side.

X The bobbin threading is finished.

Next, thread the upper thread. Continue with

the procedure in "Upper Threading" (on the

next page).

Memo

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 31).

● Be sure to hold down the bobbin with

your finger and unroll the bobbin thread

correctly, otherwise the thread may break

or the thread tension will be incorrect.

Upper Threading 21

Upper Threading

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

described.

CAUTION

About the spool of thread

With this sewing machine, a spool of thread can be

loaded into the thread cassette, and then the thread

cassette can be threaded. Information about the

spools of thread is described below.

■ Spools that can be loaded into the thread

cassette

Normally, a spool of thread is loaded into the

thread cassette and used. The spools that can be

loaded must have a diameter smaller than the

orange spool cap and a height shorter than the

mark on the cover of the thread cassette.

a Spool cap (orange)

b Spool

c Mark on thread cassette compartment cover

■ Spools that cannot be loaded into the thread

cassette

When using spools that cannot be loaded into the

thread cassette, use the extra spool pin.

When using the extra spool pin, attach either the

large or small white spool cap, depending on the

size of the spool. Use the spool cap with a

diameter that is slightly larger than the diameter

of the spool.

a Spool cap (large)

b Spool cap (small)

c Spool

Memo

z For details on using the extra spool pin, refer

to "Using the extra spool pin" (page 27).

z When using a spool of cross-wound thread,

install the small white spool cap with some

space between the cap and the spool.

a Spool cap (small)

b Gap

c Spool

● When threading the upper thread, carefully follow the instructions. If the upper threading is

not correct, the thread may become tangled or the needle may bend or break.

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

CAUTION

Loading the spool into the

thread cassette

Load the spool of thread into the thread cassette to

prepare the upper thread.

Memo

z The order for threading the thread cassette is

indicated on the thread cassette. Also check

the markings on the thread cassette while

threading it.

Turn on the sewing machine.

Open the thread cassette compartment cover

at the top on the left side of the machine.

● Two spool cap sizes are available,

allowing you to choose a spool cap that

best fits the size of spool being used. If

the spool cap is too small for the spool

being used, the thread may catch on the

slit in the spool or the needle may break.

Upper Threading 23

Push the thread cassette eject lever on the left

side of the machine toward the back.

a Thread cassette eject lever

X The thread cassette is raised.

• If the sewing machine is turned off, the

thread cassette will not be ejected correctly.

Remove the thread cassette.

Pull the cover of the thread cassette out

toward you, and then pull off the spool cap

that is inserted onto the spool pin.

a Spool cap (orange)

b Spool pin

c Cover

Place the spool for the upper thread onto the

spool pin.

Slide the spool onto the spool pin so that the

thread unwinds from the left, as seen from the

top.

a Spool

Slide the spool cap onto the spool pin.

With the rounded side of the spool cap

positioned toward the top, slide the spool cap

onto the spool pin as far as possible until the

down side of the spool touches the down end

of the spool pin.

• Only the orange spool cap should be placed

on the spool pin in the thread cassette.

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

CAUTION

While holding the end of the thread with your

right hand and the thread cassette with your

left hand, close the cover.

Close until it clicks.

Pass the thread through the slit in the top of

the thread cassette.

Follow arrow 2 indicated on the thread

cassette.

Pull the thread to the left and pass it through

the slit along the left side of the thread

cassette.

Follow arrow 3 indicated on the thread

cassette.

• When using special thread such as metallic

thread, use the thumb of your left hand to

lightly press down on the area indicated in

the illustration to create an opening that

allows for easier threading.

a Push

b Gap

Pass the thread along the bottom of the thread

cassette.

Follow arrow 4 indicated on the thread

cassette.

Pass the thread through the notch in the

lower-right corner of the thread cassette, and

then pull the thread to the left.

Follow arrow 5 indicated on the thread

cassette.

a Notch

● If the spool or the spool cap is not

positioned correctly, the thread may

become tangled around the spool pin or

the needle may break.

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