This household sewing machine is designed to comply with IEC/EN 60335-2-28 and UL1594.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
When using an electrical appliance, basic safety precautions should always be followed, including
the following:
Read all instructions before using this household sewing machine. Keep the instructions at a
suitable place close to the machine. Make sure to hand them over if the machine is given to a third
party.
DANGER –TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK:
• A sewing machine should never be left unattended when plugged in. The electrical socket, to
which the machine is plugged in should be easily accessible. Always unplug this sewing machine
from the electric outlet immediately after using and before cleaning, removing covers, lubricating
or when making any other user servicing adjustments mentioned in the instruction manual.
WARNING –TO REDUCE THE RISK OF BURNS, FIRE, ELECTRIC
SHOCK, OR INJURY TO PERSON:
• Do not allow to be used as a toy. Close attention is necessary when this sewing machine is used
by or near children.
• Use this sewing machine only for its intended use as described in this manual. Use only
attachments recommended by the manufacturer as contained in this manual.
• Never operate this sewing 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 sewing machine to the
nearest authorized dealer or service center for examination, repair, electrical or mechanical
adjustment.
• Never operate the sewing machine with any air openings blocked. Keep ventilation openings of
the sewing machine and foot control free from the accumulation of lint, dust, and loose cloth.
• Keep fingers away from all moving parts. Special care is required around the sewing machine
needle.
• Always use the proper needle plate. The wrong plate can cause the needle to break.
• Do not use bent needles.
• Do not pull or push fabric while stitching. It may deflect the needle causing it to break.
• Wear safety glasses.
• Switch the sewing machine off (“0”) when making any adjustment in the needle area, such as
threading needle, changing needle, threading bobbin, or changing presser foot, etc.
• Never drop or insert any object into any opening.
• Do not use outdoors.
• Do not operate where aerosol (spray) products are being used or where oxygen is being
administrated.
• To disconnect, turn all controls to the off (“0”) position, then remove plug from outlet.
• Do not unplug by pulling on cord. To unplug, grasp the plug, not the cord.
• The foot control is used to operate the machine. Avoid placing other objects on the foot control.
• Do not use the machine if it is wet.
• If the LED lamp is damaged or broken, it must be replaced by the manufacturer or its service
agent or a similarly qualified person, in order to avoid a hazard.
• If the cord connected with the foot control is damaged, it must be replaced by the manufacturer
or its service agent or a similarly qualified person, in order to avoid a hazard.
• This sewing machine is provided with double insulation. Use only identical replacement parts.
See instructions for Servicing of Double-Insulated Appliances.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
FOR CENELEC COUNTRIES ONLY:
This appliance can be used by children aged from 8 years and above and persons with reduced
physical, sensory or mental capabilities or lack of experience and knowledge if they have been given
supervision or instruction concerning use of the appliance in a safe way and understand the
hazards involved. Children shall not play with the appliance. Cleaning and user maintenance shall
not be made by children without supervision.
The noise level under normal operating conditions is less than 80dB(A).
The machine must only be used with foot control of type FR5 manufactured by Shanghai Binao
Precision Mould Co., Ltd.
FOR NON CENELEC COUNTRIES:
This sewing machine is not intended for use by persons (including children) with reduced physical,
sensory or mental capabilities, or lack of experience and knowledge, unless they have been given
supervision or instruction concerning use of the sewing machine by a person responsible for their
safety. Children should be supervised to ensure that they do not play with the sewing machine.
The noise level under normal operating conditions is less than 80dB(A).
The machine must only be used with foot control of type FR5 manufactured by Shanghai Binao
Precision Mould Co., Ltd.
SERVICING OF DOUBLE INSULATED PRODUCTS
In a double-insulated product, two systems of insulation are provided instead of grounding. No
ground means is provided on a double-insulated product, nor should a means for grounding be
added to the product. Servicing of a double-insulated product requires extreme care and knowledge
of the system and should be done only by qualified service personnel. Replacement parts for a
double-insulated product must be identical to those parts in the product. A double-insulated
product is marked with the words ‘DOUBLE INSULATION’ or ‘DOUBLE INSULATED’.
ELECTRIC SHOCK:....................................126
1 Introduction
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
6
11
6
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
Machine Overview
Front
1. Lid
2. Thread tension discs
3. Thread take-up lever
4. Threading slot
5. Thread cutter
6. LED light
7. Needle plate
8. Bobbin cover
9. Bobbin cover release button
10. Base plate
Introduction
11. Function buttons, see Function Buttons, page 11 for
detailed description
12. Knee lifter socket
13. Save
14. Mode switch
15. Home
16. Multi-touch screen
17. Bobbin winding thread slot
18. Auxiliary spool pin
19. Main spool pin
20. Telescopic thread guide
7
Needle Area
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
1
5
4
3
2
1
2
3
1. Automatic needle threader, see Using the Automatic
Needle Threader, page 33
2. Needle bar with needle clamp screw
3. Needle thread guide
4. Presser foot bar
5. IDT™
6. Presser foot ankle
7. Presser foot
Right Side
1. Handwheel
2. Speaker
3. Built-in USB ports
4. Speed control lever
5. ON/OFF switch, sockets for power cord and foot
control. See Connect the Power Cord and Foot
Control, page 21.
Introduction
Rear
1. Handle
2. Accessory socket
3. Free arm
8
Top
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
10
9
1
2
3
4
5
1
6
1. Thread take-up lever
2. Thread tension discs
3. Thread cutter
4. Bobbin winder lever
5. Bobbin winder
6. Pre-tension thread guide
7. Main spool pin
8. Auxiliary spool pin
9. Bobbin winding thread guide
10. Thread tension disc for bobbin winding
Note: The machine is delivered with two red safety catches;
one attached to the presser foot bar and one in the accessory
tray. These should all be removed before sewing.
Introduction
Accessory Tray
The accessory tray features special compartments for
presser feet and bobbins, plus space for needles and
other accessories. Store the accessories in the tray so
they are easily accessible.
1. Space for accessories
2. Space for needle plate
3. Spaces for presser feet
4. Spaces for bobbins
5. Space with hole for 5M Manual Buttonhole Foot
6. Safety catch (remove before sewing)
9
Storing a Needle Plate
B
A
Store the needle plate not in use in the bottom of your
accessory tray.
1. Insert the right side of the plate into spring on the
right side (A), push it slightly. Lay it down (B) so
that the needle plate snaps into place.
2. To remove the plate, place a finger into the hole by
the left side of the plate, push it to the right and then
lift the plate.
Introduction
10
Function Buttons
2
3
4
5
6
8
9
7
1
10
1. Presser foot up and extra lift
2. Presser foot down and pivot
3. Automatic needle threader
4. Cut function
5. Immediate tie-off
6. Stitch restart
7. Needle stop up/down
8. Start/stop
Presser Foot Up and Extra Lift
Touch the presser foot up button once to raise the
presser foot. Touch again and the presser foot will raise
to extra lift position, and the feed teeth will be
automatically lowered to make it easier to get heavy
fabric under the presser foot.
Presser Foot Down and Pivot
The presser foot is lowered automatically when you start
sewing. To lower the presser foot before starting to sew,
touch the presser foot down and pivot button. The
presser foot will be completely lowered and the machine
9. Reverse
10. Indication Light
firmly holds the fabric. Touch presser foot down again to
go to pivot position.
Automatic Needle Threader
See Using the Automatic Needle Threader, page 33 to
learn how to place the thread for automatic needle
threading. When the thread is in place, touch this button
to thread the needle automatically.
To prevent damage to the automatic needle threader,
needle, presser foot or other attached accessories, read
the instructions carefully on how to use the
automatic needle threader before using it.
Introduction
11
Cut Function
Touch the cut function button and your machine cuts
the upper and bobbin threads and raises the presser foot
and needle.
To cut threads at the end of a stitch or stitch sequence,
touch the cut function button while sewing. The
indicator light will intensify, alerting you that a cut is
requested. When the stitch or stitch sequence is
completed, your machine cuts the upper and bobbin
threads and raises the presser foot and needle.
Note: If automatic presser foot lift has been deselected in
temporary session settings the presser foot will not be raised
when using the cut function.
Some optional accessories are attached in the two
small circular holes in the needle plate just above the
bobbin cover. Do not use the cut function when an
accessory is attached in these holes as that may
interfere with the automatic thread cutter located
under the needle plate.
Immediate Tie-Off
Press immediate tie-off while sewing and your machine
sews a few tie-off stitches and stops automatically. By
touching the tie-off button once more while the action
indicator is lit, the function can be turned off.
Stitch Re-Start
When you stop sewing in the middle of a stitch, touch
stitch re-start to begin sewing at the beginning of the
stitch. The stitch or stitch sequence will remember any
Introduction
special settings you made.
Needle Stop Up/Down
Touch needle stop up/down to set the position of the
needle when you stop sewing. The needle will move up
or down when you touch the button. The indicator light
intensifies when needle stop down is set.
Tip: You can also tap the foot control to raise or lower the
needle once you stop sewing. Tapping the foot control does not
change the set stop position.
Start/Stop
Touch the start/stop button to start and stop the
machine sewing without using the foot control. Touch
start/stop to begin and touch again to stop.
Reverse
When reverse is active, the reverse indicator intensifies.
For permanent reverse, touch the reverse button once
before starting to sew. The reverse indicator will
intensify and the machine sews in reverse until you
touch the button again to cancel. If you press the reverse
button while sewing, the machine will sew in reverse for
as long as you keep the button pressed.
Reverse is also used when sewing manual buttonholes,
darning stitches and tapering stitches to step between
the parts of the stitch.
12
Basic Gestures for the Multi-Touch
Screen
Easily navigate on the multi-touch screen with the
gestures described below. For more detailed
information, see Multi-Touch Screen.
Touch
Touch once on a button or setting on the screen to select.
Touch & Hold
Touch once without releasing for a few seconds to touch
& hold. Used on some buttons and screen areas to
access more options.
Pinch/Stretch
Touch with two fingers at the same time and without
releasing increase/reduce the distance between the
fingers to stretch (zoom in) or pinch (zoom out).
Touch and Move
Touch once on e.g a window on your screen and,
without releasing, move your finger to a different
position on the screen.
Swipe
Touch, move and release your finger in a swift gesture
to swipe. Left-right/right-left swipe is used to scroll
between stitch menus. Top-bottom/bottom-top swipe is
used to scroll within a stitch menu.
Introduction
13
Accessories
1234
6
5
7
9
8
10
11
12
13
14
15
2
3
6
Included Accessories
1. Thread net (4)
2. Screwdriver
3. Seam ripper
4. Brush
5. Bobbins (6)
6. Edge/Quilting guide (used attached to presser foot
ankle)
7. Thread cone holder (2)
8. Spool cap, large (2)
9. Spool cap, medium (2)
10. Spool cap, small (2)
11. Large spool holder
12. Bobbin case for straight stitch left (black)
13. Knee lift
14. Straight Stitch Needle Plate
15. Multipurpose tool/Button reed
Included Accessories Not in Picture
Introduction
• Soft cover for machine
• Foot control
• Power cord
• Needles
14
Presser Feet
Note: For the best sewing results, use only presser feet designed for and compatible with your performance icon™ machine.
OA -Standard Presser Foot for IDT™ System
(attached on the machine upon delivery)
This foot is used mainly for straight stitching and zigzag stitching with a stitch
length longer than 1.0 mm.
1A - Fancy Stitch Foot for IDT™ System
This foot is used for decorative stitches. The groove on the underside of the foot
is designed to flow smoothly over the stitches.
2A - Fancy Stitch Foot
When sewing decorative stitches or short zigzag stitches and other utility
stitches with less than 1.0mm stitch length, use this foot. The groove on the
underside of the foot is designed to flow smoothly over the stitches.
3 – Blindhem Foot for IDT™ System
This foot is used for blindhem stitches. The toe on the foot guides the fabric. The
red guide on the foot is designed to ride along the fold of the hem edge.
4 – Zipper Foot for IDT™ System
This foot can be snapped on either the right or the left of the needle, making it
easy to sew close to both sides of the zipper teeth. Move needle position to right
or left to sew closer to zipper teeth.
5A – Sensormatic Buttonhole Foot
When connected to the machine, the buttonhole is sewn in the length that has
been entered into the machine.
5M - Manual Buttonhole Foot
This foot is used for sewing manual buttonholes. Use the markings on the foot
to position the garment edge. The finger on the back of the foot holds cording
for corded buttonhole.
6A – Embroidery/Sensormatic Free Motion Foot
This foot is used for free motion sewing. This foot can also be used for darning.
¼″ Quilting Foot for IDT™ System
This foot is perfect for piecing and patchwork, especially when used in
conjunction with the straight stitch needle plate. The distance from the needle to
the outer edge of the right toe is ¼″ (6mm). The distance from the needle to the
inner edge of the right toe is ⅛″ (3mm).
Introduction
15
8 – Maxi Stitch Foot
This foot is used for side-motion stitches.
Bi Level Guide Foot for IDT™ System
The Bi Level Guide Foot is especially suitable for sewing the exclusive stitch
techniques such as Edge stitches and floating stitches. The underside of the
presser foot is designed to be higher on the right side, and has a guide in the
center, allowing the presserfoot to glide along a folded edge.
Introduction
16
Stitch Overview
Utility Stitches
Stitch
№Name
1.1.1
1.1.2
1.1.3
1.1.4
1.1.5
1.1.6
1.1.7
1.1.8
Straight stitchFor seaming and topstitching.
Stretch triple straight
stitch
Stretch tricot stitchFor sewing seams on stretch fabrics.
Basting stitchFor all types of sewing.
Zigzag stitchFor reinforcing seams, clean finish and stretch sewing.
Stretch triple zigzag
stitch
Three-step zigzag
stitch
Elastic stitchFor stretch sewing, darning, patching and lace insertion.
Description
For reinforced seams and for top stitching.
Elastic stitch for decorative hems or topstitching.
For stretch sewing, darning, patching, edge finishing and decorative
sewing.
Honeycomb stitchDecorative stitch for stretch fabrics and hems. Also used with elastic
thread in the bobbin.
Bridging stitchJoining fabrics and quilt batting, decorative stitch for quilting,
hemstitching.
Foundation elastic
stitch
Crosshem stitchElastic decorative hem for stretch fabrics. Also suitable for joining
Blind hem stitchFor sewing blind hems on woven fabrics.
Elastic blind hem stitchFor sewing blind hems on stretch fabrics.
Closed overlockFor sewing seams and overcasting stretch fabrics in one step.
Joining stitch for undergarments, terry cloth, leather, bulky fabrics
where overlapping the seams.
fabrics and quilt batting.
1.2.2
1.2.3
Elastic overcastFor sewing seams and overcasting stretch fabrics in one step.
OverlockFor sewing seams and overcasting stretch fabrics in one step.
17
Stitch
№Name
Description
1.2.4
1.2.5
1.2.6
1.2.7
1.2.8
1.2.9
1.2.10
1.3.1
1.3.2
Light knit fabric
patching
Closed overlockFor patching, sewing hems, sewing seams and overcasting.
Closed overlock for
stretch
Mock cover hemCreate the look of a serger cover hem for stretch fabrics.
Mock cover hemCreate the look of a serger cover hem for stretch fabrics.
Open overlock blind
hem
Closed overlock blind
hem
Standard buttonholeBasic buttonhole for blouses, shirts and jackets. Also for pillowcases.
Rounded buttonhole
with crosswise tack
For patching and sewing hems in stretch fabrics.
For patching, sewing hems, sewing seams and overcasting in stretch
fabrics.
Create decorative overlock blind hem for woven fabrics.
Create decorative overlock blind hem for stretch fabrics.
Buttonhole for garments.
Introduction
1.3.3
1.3.4
1.3.5
1.3.6
1.3.7
1.3.8
1.3.9
1.3.10
1.3.11
Eyelet buttonhole with
pointed tack
Rounded buttonholeButtonhole for light garments or jackets.
Stretch buttonholeButtonhole for stretch fabrics.
Decorative eyelet
buttonhole
Decorative eyelet
buttonhole
Decorative eyelet
buttonhole
Decorative round
buttonhole
Button sewing
Bound buttonholeFoundation stitch for bound buttonhole.
Tailors buttonhole or decorative buttonhole.
Decorative buttonhole for jackets.
Decorative buttonhole for jackets.
Decorative heirloom buttonhole.
Decorative heirloom buttonhole.
For sewing on buttons or tacking.
18
1.4.1
1.4.2
1.4.3
EyeletFor belts, laces, heirloom sewing, etc.
Decorative EyeletFor belts, laces, heirloom sewing, etc.
Decorative EyeletFor belts, laces, heirloom sewing, etc.
Stitch
№Name
Description
1.4.4
1.4.5
1.4.6
1.4.7
1.4.8
1.4.9
1.4.10
Decorative EyeletFor belts, laces, heirloom sewing, etc.
Programmable darning
stitch
Programmable
reinforced darning
stitch
BartackReinforce pockets, shirt openings, belt loops as well as at lower end of
Denim bartackReinforce pockets, shirt openings, belt loops as well as at lower end of
Decorative bartackReinforce pockets, shirt openings, belt loops as well as at lower end of
Cross bartackReinforce pockets, shirt openings and belt loops.
To darn or mend small holes, begin stitching over hole, touch reverse
for continuous darning and stop.
Darn and mend work clothes, jeans, table cloths and linen towels.
Stitch over hole, touch reverse for continuous darning and auto stop.
a zipper.
a zipper.
a zipper.
Introduction
19
Stitch Menu Overview
There are several different stitch menus with stitches for all purposes. For detailed description of a stitch, use the
quick help function, see Quick Help.
Stitch Menu NameSub Menus
1 — Utility Stitches
See also stitch table for
detailed descriptions.
2 — Quilt Stitches1. Handlook quilt stitches
3 — Needle Art Stitches1. Cross stitches
4 — Satin Stitches1. Scallop edges
5 — Decorative Stitches1. Leaves and flowers
6 — Miscellaneous Stitches1. Bows and hearts
7 — Monogram Stitches
Introduction
1. Essential stitches
2. Overcast stitches
3. Buttonholes
4. Eyelets and darning stitches
2. Stippling stitches
3. Crazy patch stitches
2. Needlework stitches
3. Antique hand embroidery stitches
2. Satin elements
3. Borders
2. Art stitches
3. Ornamental stitches
4. Maxi art stitches
2. Animals
3. Fun stitches
1. Monogram 1
2. Monogram 2
8 — Stitch Techniques1. Single ribbon stitches
2. Double ribbon stitches
3. Triple ribbon stitches
4. Stacking stitches
5. Floating stitches
6. Radiant stitches
7. Lace edge stitches
9 — Additional Stitches1. Optional feet stitches
2. Four direction stitches
Alphabets
Stitch fonts are available in Block, Comic, Cyrillic, Grand,
Outline and Script alphabets.
20
2 Preparations
1
2
3
Unpacking Machine
After lifting the machine out of the box and removing
all packing material and the plastic bag, wipe the
machine, particularly around the needle and needle
plate to remove any oil before sewing.
Note: Your performance icon™ machine is adjusted to
provide the best stitch result at normal room temperature.
Extreme hot and cold temperatures can affect the sewn results.
Connect the Power Cord and Foot
Control
Among the accessories you will find the power cord and
the foot control.
Note: Before plugging in the foot control, check to ensure that
it is type "FR5" (see underside of foot control).
1. Pull out the cord from the foot control. Connect the
foot control cord to the front socket on the bottom
right side of the machine.
2. Connect the power cord to the rear socket on the
bottom right side of the machine. Plug the cord into
the wall socket.
3. Press the ON/OFF switch to "I" to turn on power
and light.
Preparations
For the USA and Canada
This sewing machine 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.
21
Pack Away After Sewing
1. Press the ON/OFF switch to "O".
2. Unplug the cord from the wall socket and then from
the machine.
3. Unplug the foot control cord from the machine. Pull
the cord gently and release. The cord will retract into
the foot control.
4. Place all accessories in the accessory tray. Slide the
tray on to the machine around the free arm.
5. Place the foot control in the space above the free arm.
6. Put on the soft cover.
Tip: The user’s guide and power cord can be stored in the back
pocket of the soft cover.
USB Ports
Your machine has two USB ports for connecting USB
devices such as a memory stick. USB plugs can only be
inserted one way – do not force them into the ports! To
remove, carefully pull the USB device out straight.
Note: Make sure that the USB stick you use has the format
FAT32.
Using a USB device
The external device button in file manager is only active
when a device is connected to a machine USB port.
Note: Do not remove the USB device if a loading spinner is
shown on the screen or while the file manager is shown.
Removing the device at that time can damage the files on your
Preparations
USB device.
22
Getting Started with WiFi and
mySewnet™ Cloud
Follow the steps below to connect your machine.
Connect to a Network with WiFi
Touch the WiFi button in the top left corner of the
screen. Select from the list of available networks. If your
network is password protected, you will be prompted to
enter the password to connect.
For more information, see WiFi Introduction.
Connect to mySewnet™ Cloud
When you have established a WiFi connection, touch the
mySewnet™ tab and touch the Sign in button. A web
view opens where you can log in. If you do not have a
user name and password, select Register to create an
account.
For more information, see mySewnet™ Cloud.
LED Lights
Your machine has LED lights which distribute the light
evenly over the sewing area and eliminate shadows.
You can adjust the brightness of the light in the settings
menu, see Machine Settings .
WiFi icon
mySewnet™ cloud icon
Preparations
Free Arm
To use the free arm, slide off the accessory tray. When
attached, a hook keeps the accessory tray locked to the
machine. Remove the tray by sliding it to the left.
Manual Thread Cutter
There are three manual thread cutters on your machine.
The first one is close to the bobbin winder spindle for
cutting the thread after winding. The thread can be cut
from sides.
The second one is next to the bobbin area for cutting the
bobbin thread after placing the bobbin in the machine.
The third one is on the left side of the machine for
manually cutting top and bobbin threads. Pull both
threads into the cutter from the back to the front and
pull down quickly.
23
Knee-Lift
A
Your machine comes with an electronic knee-lifter that
allows you to lift the presserfoot with your knee. The
knee-lifter is very helpful when sewing, since it allows
you to handle the fabric with your hands while your
knee lifts the presser foot to the desired height.
Match the ribs on your knee-lifter with the notches in
the knee-lifter socket. Adjust the rectangular bar on the
knee-lift until it is positioned at a comfortable height for
you (A).
Move your knee lifter with your knee, and the presser
foot will raise. You can raise the presser foot to three
positions with your knee-lifter; pivot height, up, and
extra lift position. When moving the presser foot to the
extra lift position, the machine drops the feed teeth,
allowing you to easily place thick fabrics underneath the
presserfoot. The feed teeth will raise automatically
when you start to sew.
To remove the knee-lift, just pull it straight out of the
hole.
Speed Control Lever
The speed control lever sets the maximum sewing speed.
To increase sewing speed, slide the lever up, to decrease
sewing speed, slide the lever down.
A pop-up appears on screen when adjusting the slider,
indicating which speed level is set. The speed setting is
also shown in the information area.
Preparations
Thread Sensor
If the needle thread breaks or bobbin thread is running
low, the machine stops and a pop-up appears on the
screen.
If needle thread breaks: Remove the thread completely,
re-thread the machine and touch OK in the pop-up.
If bobbin thread is running low: You can continue
sewing without closing the pop-up before the bobbin
thread runs out completely. This gives you an
opportunity to plan where to stop and change the
bobbin. When the bobbin is replaced with a full one,
touch OK in the pop-up.
24
Telescopic Thread Guide
The telescopic thread guide is always used when
threading your machine for sewing and bobbin winding.
The telescopic thread guide helps straighten the thread,
preventing it from tangling or breaking. The thread
guide together with the vertical spool pins make it
possible to successfully use very large thread cones.
Extending and Retracting the Telescopic Thread Guide
Hold the telescopic thread guide as illustrated and pull
it straight up, turn it until it clicks into place.
To retract, hold the thread guide and push it straight
down.
Preparations
25
Spool Pins
BA
Your machine has two spool pins; a main spool pin and
an auxiliary spool pin. The spool pins are designed for
all types of thread.
Use the main spool pin (A) when threading the upper
thread and for bobbin winding through the needle. For
regular sewing and embroidery thread, use the main
spool pin in vertical position. Place the spool pin in the
horizontal position if you want to keep the machine
threaded and close the lid when you have finished
sewing. Remember to place the spool pin back in the
vertical position when you start to sew again.
Note: Tilting the spool pins is not possible with large thread
spools or cones.
You may get better results if you tilt the spool pin to the
horizontal position when using small spools of specialty
thread. See Threading Tips and Hints, page 34.
Use the auxiliary spool pin (B) when winding a bobbin
from a second spool of thread or for a second spool
when sewing with a twin needle.
Main spool pin (A) and auxiliary spool pin (B)
Spool Caps
Spool caps in three sizes are included with your
machine. For most types of thread spools, no spool cap
is needed except when the thread on the spool is
running low. If the thread is snagging on the top of the
thread spool, place a spool cap on top. Always use a
spool cap slightly larger than the thread spool to
Preparations
prevent the thread from snagging. The flat side of the
spool cap should be pressed firmly against the spool.
There should be no space between the spool cap and the
thread spool.
26
Threads
There are many threads on the market today developed
for different purposes.
Your performance icon™ machine is designed for all
types of threads and spool sizes. See Threading Tips and
Hints, page 34 for information on achieving optimal
results with different types of thread and different
sizes/styles of thread spools.
All Purpose Sewing Thread
All purpose sewing thread is made of synthetic, cotton
or cotton covered polyester. This type of thread is used
for most sewing projects, including garments, home
decor, and quilting.
Decorative Thread
Decorative thread is made from a variety of fibers:
rayon, polyester, acrylic or metallic. These threads
create a smooth glossy appearance for decorative
stitching.
Decorative thread is not typically used in the bobbin
unless both sides of the project will be seen. A light
weight, bobbin thread is often used in the bobbin
instead. The lighter weight thread does not build up
under the stitches.
Note: When using a metallic or a flat film thread, you may
need to use a needle with a larger eye and lower the speed.
Preparations
Transparent Thread
Transparent thread, also called monofilament thread, is
a single clear synthetic thread. It is used for quilting and
other sewing techniques. When winding a bobbin, wind
at half speed and fill the bobbin half full.
27
Needles
The sewing machine needle plays an important role in
successful sewing. Use only quality needles. We
recommend needles of system 130/705H. The needle
package included with your machine contains needles
of the most frequently used sizes.
Be sure to match the needle to the thread you are
using. Heavier threads require a needle with a larger
needle eye. If the needle eye is too small for the
thread the automatic needle threader may not work
properly.
Universal Needle
Universal needles have a slightly rounded point and
come in a variety of sizes. For general sewing in a
variety of fabric types and weights.
Stretch Needle
Stretch needles have a special scarf to eliminate skipped
stitches when there is a flex in the fabric. For knits,
swimwear, fleece, synthetic suedes and leathers.
Embroidery Needle
Embroidery needles have a special scarf, a slightly
rounded point and a slightly larger eye to avoid damage
to thread and materials. Use with metallic and other
specialty threads for decorative sewing.
Denim Needle
Preparations
Denim needles have a sharp point to penetrate tightly
woven fabrics without deflecting the needle. For canvas,
denim, microfibers.
Wing Needle
Wing needles have wide wings on the side of the needle
to poke holes in the fabric when sewing entredeux and
other hemstitches on natural fiber fabrics.
Important Needle Information
Change the needle often. Always use a straight needle
with a sharp point (A).
A damaged needle (B) can cause skipped stitches,
breakage or snapping of the thread. It can also damage
the needle plate.
Do not use asymmetrical twin needles (C), they can
damage your sewing machine.
28
Changing the Needle
A
1. Use the hole in the multipurpose tool to hold the
needle.
2. Loosen the needle screw.
3. Remove the needle.
4. Insert the new needle using the multipurpose tool.
Push the new needle upwards with the flat side
away from you until it will go no further.
It is very important that the needle is inserted
all the way in order for the automatic needle
threader to work properly.
5. Tighten the needle screw carefully.
Preparations
29
Threading
A
Make sure that the presser foot and needle are in the up
position.
Threading the Upper Thread
For most regular thread qualities and spool sizes,
threading the upper thread from the main (left) spool
pin in the vertical position is recommended for optimal
sewing results.
If you experience problems with the thread or sewing
result, there are alternative ways to position the thread
spool. See Threading Tips and Hints, page 34.
1.Hold the telescopic thread guide and pull it straight
up until it clicks into place.
2.Raise both spool pins to vertical position. Place the
thread spool on the main spool pin (left).
Using both hands, place the thread behind the left
clip on the telescopic thread guide (A). The thread
should run from right to left.
Preparations
Note: When using thread cones, place a cone holder on the
spool pin before placing the thread cone. This prevents the
thread cone from wobbling.
Tip: When removing the thread cone from the spool pin, the
cone holder might become stuck inside the thread cone. Push
it out gently from the top.
30
Loading...
+ 100 hidden pages
You need points to download manuals.
1 point = 1 manual.
You can buy points or you can get point for every manual you upload.