where you can get product support and answers to frequently
“IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS”
When using the sewing machine, basic safety precautions should always be followed,
including the following:
“Read all instructions before using.”
DANGER – To reduce the risk of electric shock:
1. The sewing machine should never be left unattended when plugged in. Always unplug this
sewing 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 15 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 sewing
machine is used by or near children.
2. Use this sewing 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 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.
4. Never operate the sewing machine with any of the air openings blocked. Keep the ventilation
openings of the sewing machine and foot controller free from the accumulation of lint, dust and
loose cloth.
5. Never drop or insert any object into any openings.
6. Do not use this machine outdoors.
7. Do not operate this machine 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 the cord. To unplug, grasp the plug and pull, not the cord.
10. Keep fingers away from all moving parts. Special care is required around the sewing machine
needle.
11. Always use the proper needle plate. The wrong plate can cause the needle to break.
12. Do not use a bent needle.
13. Do not pull or push the fabric while stitching. It may deflect the needle causing it to break.
14. Switch the sewing machine to the off, symbol “O” position when making any adjustments in the
needle area, such as threading the needle, changing the needle, threading the bobbin, or
changing the presser foot.
15. Always unplug the sewing machine from the electrical outlet when removing covers, lubricating,
or when making any other user service adjustments mentioned in this instruction manual.
16. This sewing machine is not intended for use by young children or impaired persons without
supervision.
17. Young children should be supervised to ensure that they do not play with this sewing machine.
“SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS”
“This sewing machine is intended for household use.”
1
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 coloured in accordance with the following code:
BlueNeutral
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.
2
CONGRATULATIONS ON CHOOSING OUR MACHINE
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 handwheel, thread takeup 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
The contents of this manual and specifications of this product are subject to change without notice.
1. KNOWING YOUR SEWING MACHINE ..........................................................6
NAMES OF MACHINE PARTS AND THEIR FUNCTIONS ....................................................6
The main parts .................................................................................................................................................6
Needle and presser foot section ......................................................................................................................8
Flat bed attachment ......................................................................................................................................... 8
USING YOUR SEWING MACHINE ...................................................................................10
Power supply precautions .............................................................................................................................. 10
Power supply .................................................................................................................................................. 10
Steadying the machine ................................................................................................................................... 11
THREADING THE MACHINE ............................................................................................12
Winding the bobbin ........................................................................................................................................ 12
Drawing up the lower thread .......................................................................................................................... 18
REPLACING THE NEEDLE .................................................................................................19
Selecting the needle depending on the thread and fabric types .................................................................... 19
Checking the needle ......................................................................................................................................20
Replacing the needle ..................................................................................................................................... 20
Sewing with a twin needle (Option) ................................................................................................................ 22
REPLACING THE PRESSER FOOT ......................................................................................23
Replacing the presser foot ............................................................................................................................. 23
Removing the presser foot holder .................................................................................................................. 24
General sewing procedure ............................................................................................................................. 25
Starting to sew ............................................................................................................................................... 27
Sewing in reverse ........................................................................................................................................... 28
Changing the sewing direction ....................................................................................................................... 30
Using a free-arm style .................................................................................................................................... 31
Blind hem stitching ......................................................................................................................................... 33
Making the buttonhole .................................................................................................................................... 36
Changing the bulb .......................................................................................................................................... 45
Cleaning the machine surface ........................................................................................................................ 46
Cleaning the shuttle race ............................................................................................................................... 46
Cleaning the feed dogs .................................................................................................................................. 47
Repacking the machine ..................................................................................................................................48
Bobbin case tension adjustment .................................................................................................................... 48
INDEX ...............................................................................................................................53
5
KNOWING YOUR SEWING MACHINE —————————————————————————————————————————————
—
1KNOWING YOUR SEWING MACHINE
NAMES OF MACHINE PARTS AND THEIR FUNCTIONS
The main parts
a Buttonhole fine-adjusting screw (page 38)
Turn the buttonhole fine-adjusting screw to adjust
buttonhole stitching when it is not uniform.
b Pattern selection dial (page 26)
Turn the pattern selection dial to select the number of
the stitch that you want to use.
c Thread take-up lever (page 16)
d Upper tension control dial (page 28)
This controls the tension of the upper thread.
e Flat bed attachment with accessory storage (page 8 and
31)
f Reverse sewing lever (page 28)
Press and hold down the reverse sewing lever to sew in
the opposite direction.
6
1
g Built-in handle
h Spool pin (page 12 and 16)
The spool pin holds the spool of thread.
i Bobbin winder (page 12)
The bobbin winder winds thread onto the bobbin for
use as the lower thread.
j Handwheel
Use the handwheel to manually raise and lower the
needle.
k Main power/sewing light switch (page 10)
Use this switch to turn on and off the main power and
sewing light.
l Foot controller jack/jack
Insert the foot controller plug into the foot controller
jack, which also supplies power to this machine.
m Thread cutter (page 28)
Pass the threads through the thread cutter to cut them.
n Presser foot lever (page 16)
Use the presser foot lever to raise and lower the presser
foot.
o Bobbin winding pre-tension disc/thread guide (page 12
and 16)
The thread guide/bobbin winding pre-tension disc is
used when winding the thread onto the bobbin and
threading the machine.
p Foot controller (page 11)
Use the foot controller to control the sewing speed and
to start and stop sewing.
Part code;
XC7359-021 (110/120V Area),
XC7438-321 (220/240V Area),
XC7456-321 (U.K.),
XE0629-001 (Australia, New Zealand),
XD0852-021 (Korea),
XC7438-321 (Russia)
7
KNOWING YOUR SEWING MACHINE —————————————————————————————————————————————
—
Needle and presser foot
section
a Presser foot holder assembly
The presser foot is installed onto the presser foot holder
assembly.
b Presser foot screw
Use the presser foot screw to hold the presser foot
holder assembly in place.
c Presser foot (Zigzag)
The presser foot applies pressure consistently on the
fabric as the sewing takes place. Attach the appropriate
presser foot for the selected stitching.
d Feed dogs
The feed dogs feed the fabric in the sewing direction.
e Needle plate
The needle plate is marked with guides for sewing
straight seams.
f Shuttle hook
g Shuttle cover
Open the shuttle cover to set the bobbin.
h Bobbin case
i Needle
j Needle bar thread guide
k Needle clamp screw
Use the needle clamp screw to hold the needle in place.
Flat bed attachment
The accessories are stored in a compartment inside
the flat bed attachment.
Lift the bottom of the flat bed attachment
a
toward you, and then pull the flat bed
attachment out to remove it.
a Flat bed attachment
b Storage compartment
Note
● Put the accessories in the bag, and then
store the bag inside the compartment. If the
accessories are not in a bag, they may fall
out, and be lost or damaged.
8
ACCESSORIES
The following accessories are stored in the flat bed attachment. We have designed these accessories to help you
be able to carry out most sewing tasks.
Note
(For U.S.A. only)
● Foot controller: Model KD-1902, N
This foot controller can be used on the following machine models:
LS-2220/2720/1520/2125/2125i.
● The screw of the presser foot holder is available through your authorized dealer. (Part code: 132730-122)
● A replacement for the factory-installed presser foot is available through your authorized dealer.
KNOWING YOUR SEWING MACHINE —————————————————————————————————————————————
—
USING YOUR SEWING MACHINE
Power supply precautions
Be sure to observe the following precautions concerning the power supply.
WARNING
● Use only regular household electricity for the power source. Using other power sources may result in
fire, electric shock, or damage to the machine.
● 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
CAUTION
● Do not use extension cords or multi-plug adapters with many other appliances plugged in to them. Fire
or electric shock may result.
● Do not touch the plug with wet hands. Electric shock may result.
When unplugging the machine, always turn off the main power first. Always grasp the plug to remove it from
●
the outlet. Pulling on the cord may damage the cord, or lead to fire or electric shock.
● Do not allow the power cord to be cut, damaged, modified, forcefully bent, pulled, twisted, or bundled.
Do not place heavy objects on the cord. Do not subject the cord to heat. These things may damage the
cord and cause fire or electric shock. If the cord or plug is damaged, take the machine to your
authorized dealer for repairs before continuing use.
● Unplug the power cord if the machine is not to be used for a long period of time. Otherwise a fire may
result.
Power supply
Insert the foot controller plug, located
a
between the foot controller and the power
supply plug on the cord, into the jack on the
machine. Then, insert the power supply plug
into a wall outlet.
a Foot controller plug
10
Set the main power switch to “I”.
b
X The sewing lamp comes on when the
machine is turned on.
To turn off the machine, set the main power
c
switch to “
{”.
X The sewing lamp goes off when the
machine is turned off.
Foot controller
CAUTION
Note
● If a power outage occurs while the sewing
machine is being operated, turn off the
sewing machine and unplug the power
supply cord. When restarting the sewing
machine, follow the necessary procedure to
correctly operate the machine.
(For U.S.A. only)
● This appliance has a polarized plug (one
blade wider than the other). To reduce the
risk of electric shock, this plug is intended
to fit in a polarized outlet only one way. If
the plug does not fit fully in the outlet,
reverse the plug.
If it still does not fit, contact a qualified
electrician to install the proper outlet. Do
not modify the plug in any way.
● When connecting the foot controller, be sure
to turn off the sewing machine in order to
prevent the machine from accidentally being
started.
When you press the foot controller down lightly, the
machine will run at a low speed. When you press
harder, the machine’s speed will increase. When you
take your foot off the foot controller, the machine
will stop.
Slower
Faster
You should make sure that nothing is placed on the
foot controller when the machine is not in use.
CAUTION
● Do not allow pieces of cloth and dust to build
up on the foot controller. Doing so could
cause a fire or an electric shock.
● A new sewing machine or one that has not
been in use for a long period of time should
be oiled as described on page 45. After oiling,
be sure to wipe off any excess oil.
1
Steadying the machine
If the sewing machine has been placed on an uneven
surface, turn the rubber cushion in the right-front
corner of the base plate to adjust its height until the
sewing machine is stable.
11
KNOWING YOUR SEWING MACHINE —————————————————————————————————————————————
—
THREADING THE MACHINE
Winding the bobbin
This section describes how to wind the thread onto the bobbin.
1 Pulling it in as
far as possible.
a Pre-tension disk
b Bobbin winder shaft
c Bobbin
CAUTION
● Only use bobbins (part code: SA156, SFB: XA5539-151) that have been designed for this sewing
machine. Using other bobbins may cause damage to the machine.
● We designed the bobbin that comes with this machine. If you use bobbins from other models, the
machine will not work properly. Only use the bobbin that comes with this machine or bobbins of the
same type (part code: SA156, SFB: XA5539-151).
Actual size
11.5 mm
(7/16 inches)
This modelOther models
Pull up the spool pin as far as possible, and
a
then put a spool of thread on this pin.
Put the bobbin onto the bobbin winder shaft
d
and slide the bobbin winder shaft to the right.
Turn the bobbin clockwise, by hand, until the
Pass the thread around the pre-tension disk.
b
spring on the shaft slides into the groove of
the bobbin.
CAUTION
● If the spool of thread is not in the right place,
the thread may tangle on the spool pin.
Pass the end of the thread through the hole on
c
the bobbin from the inside of the bobbin.
a Spring on the shaft
b Groove of the bobbin
12
Turn on the sewing machine.
e
While holding the end of the thread, gently
f
press the foot controller to wind the thread
around the bobbin a few times. Then stop the
machine.
Cut the thread, slide the bobbin winder shaft
j
to the left and remove the bobbin.
Memo
● When the sewing machine is started or the
handwheel is turned after winding the
thread around the bobbin, the machine will
make a clicking sound; this is not a
malfunction.
● The needle bar does not move when you
slide the bobbin winding shaft to the right.
CAUTION
1
Trim the excess thread above the bobbin.
g
CAUTION
● Make sure you follow the instructions
carefully. If you do not cut the thread
completely, and the bobbin is wound, when
the thread runs low it may tangle around the
bobbin and cause the needle to break.
Press the foot controller to start.
h
● Winding the bobbin improperly may cause
the thread tension to loosen, breaking the
needle and resulting in injury.
1
a Wound evenly
b Wound poorly
2
When the bobbin seems full and begins
i
spinning slowly, take your foot off the foot
controller.
13
KNOWING YOUR SEWING MACHINE —————————————————————————————————————————————
—
Open the shuttle cover behind the flat bed
b
Lower threading
attachment at the front of the machine.
Install the bobbin wound with thread.
CAUTION
● Winding the bobbin improperly may cause
the thread tension to loosen, breaking the
needle and resulting in injury.
a Flat bed attachment
b Shuttle cover
Remove the bobbin case by pulling its latch
1
a Wound evenly
b Wound poorly
2
c
toward you and pulling it out from the shuttle
race.
● The bobbin was designed specifically for this
sewing machine. If bobbins from other
models are used, the machine will not operate
correctly. Use only the enclosed bobbin or
bobbins of the same type (part code: SA156,
SFB: XA5539-151).
Actual size
11.5 mm
(7/16 inches)
This modelOther models
a Bobbin case latch
Unwind about 10 cm (4 inches) of thread
d
from a full bobbin, and then insert the bobbin
into the bobbin case.
CAUTION
● Make sure you turn the power off while
threading the machine. If you accidentally
step on the foot controller and the machine
starts to sew, you could be injured.
Raise the needle to its highest position by turning
a
the handwheel toward you (counterclockwise)
and raise the presser foot lever.
14
• Only use bobbins that were designed to be
used with this machine.
CAUTION
● Make sure you set the bobbin so the thread
unrolls in the right direction. If the thread unrolls
in the wrong direction, it may cause the thread
tension to be incorrect or break the needle.
Pull the trailing thread through the slot, down
e
and to the left, as shown below, until it enters
the delivery eye under the tension spring.
a Tension spring
Hold the bobbin case by the latch, fully insert
f
the bobbin case into the shuttle race, and then
release the latch.
• Make sure the bobbin case finger fits into the
notch at the top of the shuttle race.
1
a Bobbin case finger
b Notch
Close the shuttle cover.
g
CAUTION
● Make sure that the bobbin case is properly
placed back into the machine. If it is incorrectly
installed, it will fall out from the shuttle when the
machine starts to sew.
15
KNOWING YOUR SEWING MACHINE —————————————————————————————————————————————
—
Upper threading
Set the upper thread and thread the needle.
a Spool pin
b Thread guide (rear)
c Thread guide (front)
d Thread take-up lever
CAUTION
● Make sure you thread the machine properly. Otherwise, the thread could tangle and break the needle.
Raise the presser foot using the presser foot
a
lever.
Pull up the spool pin as far as possible, and
c
then put a spool of thread on this pin.
CAUTION
● If the spool of thread is in the wrong place, or
is set incorrectly, the thread may tangle on
the spool pin and cause the needle to break.
Feed the upper thread through both thread
d
guides: the rear one first, then the front one.
a Presser foot lever
Pull the thread down and around the upper
Raise the needle by turning the handwheel
b
toward you (counterclockwise) to raise the
thread take-up lever to its highest position.
e
tension control dial from the right to the left
so the thread picks up the thread check
spring.
• If the needle is not correctly raised, the
sewing machine can not be threaded. Be
sure to turn the handwheel before threading
the sewing machine.
16
a Upper tension control dial
b Thread check spring
While holding the thread as shown below,
f
pull it between the tension discs.
Guide the thread through the thread take-up
g
lever from right to left.
a Thread take-up lever
Put the thread behind the needle bar thread
h
guide above the needle.
The thread can easily be passed behind the
needle bar thread guide by holding the thread
in your left hand, then feeding the thread with
your right hand.
a Needle bar thread guide
Thread the needle from front to back and pull
i
out about 5 cm (2 inches) of thread.
1
a 5 cm (2 inches)
Note
● If the thread take-up lever is lowered, the
upper thread cannot be wrapped around the
thread take-up lever. Make sure you raise
the presser foot lever and the thread take-up
lever before you feed the upper thread.
● If you incorrectly feed the thread you may
cause sewing problems.
17
KNOWING YOUR SEWING MACHINE —————————————————————————————————————————————
—
Drawing up the lower thread
Lightly hold the end of the upper thread.
a
a Upper thread
While holding the end of the upper thread,
b
raise the needle to its highest position by
turning the handwheel toward you
(counterclockwise).
Pull out about 15 cm (6 inches) of both
d
threads and pull them toward the back of the
machine under the presser foot.
a Upper thread
b Lower thread
Pull on the upper thread to draw up the lower
c
thread.
a Upper thread
b Lower thread
18
REPLACING THE NEEDLE
This section provides information on sewing machine needles.
Needle precautions
Be sure to observe the following precautions concerning the handling of the needle. Failure to observe these
precautions is extremely dangerous. Be sure to read and carefully follow the instructions below.
CAUTION
● Only use home sewing machine needles. Use of any other needle may bend the needle or damage the
machine.
● Never use bent needles. Bent needles can easily break, possibly resulting in injury.
Selecting the needle depending on the thread and fabric types
The sewing machine needle that should be used depends on the fabric and thread thickness. Refer to the
following table when choosing the thread and needle appropriate for the fabric that you wish to sew.
Use the same size thread for the upper (spool) and lower (bobbin) threads.
Sewing fabricsNeedle sizesThread sizes
Cotton: 80
Synthetic/ Polyester Long
Fiber
Fine Mercerized Cotton
Cotton: 60-80
Silk: “A”
Synthetic/ Polyester Long
Fiber
Mercerized 50
Cotton: 50-60
Silk: “A”
Synthetic/ Polyester Long
Fiber
Mercerized 50-60
Cotton: 40-50
Mercerized Heavy Duty
Polyester Long Fiber
Cotton Wrapped
Polyester
Polyester Long Fiber
Very thin
Lightweight
Medium weight
Heavyweight
Knits
Fine tricot, Fine lace,
Thin linen, Silk,
Organza, Chiffon
● The smaller the thread number, the thicker the thread; and the larger the needle number, the thicker the
needle.
● Use the ball point needle when sewing on stretch fabrics or fabrics where skipped stitches easily occur.
● Use a 90/14 to 100/16 needle with transparent nylon threads, regardless of the fabric being sewn.
● A 75/11 needle is already installed when the sewing machine is purchased.
19
KNOWING YOUR SEWING MACHINE —————————————————————————————————————————————
—
CAUTION
● The appropriate fabric, thread and needle
combinations are shown in the table on the
previous page. If the combination of the
fabric, thread and needle is not correct,
particularly when sewing thick fabrics (such
as denim) with thin needles (such as 65/9 to
75/11), the needle may bend or break. In
addition, the stitching may be uneven or
puckered or there may be skipped stitches.
Checking the needle
Sewing with a bent needle is extremely dangerous
since the needle may break while the machine is
being operated.
Before using the needle, place the flat side of the
needle on a flat surface and check that the distance
between the needle and the flat surface is even.
1
2
Replacing the needle
Replace the needle as described below. Use the
screwdriver and a needle that has been determined
to be straight according to the instructions in
“Checking the needle” .
Turn off the sewing machine.
a
CAUTION
● Before replacing the needle, be sure to turn
off the sewing machine, otherwise injuries
may occur if the foot controller is accidentally
pressed and the machine starts sewing.
Raise the needle to its highest position by
b
turning the handwheel toward you
(counterclockwise).
a Flat side
b Needle type marking
■ Correct needle
1
a Flat surface
■ Incorrect needle
If the distance between the needle and the flat
surface is not even, the needle is bent. Do not use
a bent needle.
1
a Flat surface
Lower the presser foot lever.
c
a Presser foot lever
20
Hold the needle with your left hand, and then
d
use a screwdriver to turn the needle clamp
screw counterclockwise to remove the
needle.
While holding the needle with your left hand,
f
use the screwdriver to tighten the needle
clamp screw by turning it clockwise.
Note
● The needle can be removed by simply
loosening the needle clamp screw about
one turn. (If the needle clamp screw is
loosened too much, the needle clamp
(which holds the needle) may fall off.
Therefore, do not loosen the needle clamp
screw too much.)
a Screwdriver
b Needle clamp screw
• Do not apply strong force when loosening or
tightening the needle clamp screw,
otherwise certain parts of the sewing
machine may be damaged.
Install the twin needle in the same way.
CAUTION
● Be sure to insert the needle until it touches
the needle stopper and securely tighten the
needle clamp screw with the screwdriver,
otherwise the needle may break or damage
may result.
■ Installing the needle clamp
If the needle clamp is removed, follow the
procedure below to attach it to the needle bar.
As seen from the front of the machine, slide
a
the needle clamp onto the needle bar so that
the needle clamp screw is on the right side
and the needle bar thread guide is at the
bottom.
1
With the flat side of the needle toward the
e
rear of the machine, insert the needle until it
touches the needle stopper.
a Needle stopper
a Needle clamp screw
b Needle bar thread guide
c Needle bar
Align the bottom edge of the needle holder
b
with the end of the needle bar, and then
tighten the needle clamp screw.
a Needle bar
b Needle holder
c Needle clamp screw
d Align
21
KNOWING YOUR SEWING MACHINE —————————————————————————————————————————————
—
Sewing with a twin needle (Option)
We have designed your machine so you can sew with the optional twin needle and two top threads. You can
use the same color or two different colors of thread for making decorative stitches.
The stitches available for twin-needle sewing are straight stitches 6 through 10 and zigzag stitch 2.
CAUTION
● Use only twin needles that have been made for this machine (part code: X57521-021). Other needles
could break, and damage the machine.
● Do not sew with bent needles. The needle could break and injure you.
● When using the twin needle, be sure to select an appropriate stitch (straight stitches 6 through 10 and
zigzag stitch 2), otherwise the needle may break or the machine may be damaged.
● Slowly turn the handwheel toward you (counterclockwise) and check that the needle does not touch the
presser foot. If the needle hits the presser foot, the needle may bend or break.
● When changing the sewing direction, be sure to raise the needle before turning the fabric. If the fabric is
turned while the needle is lowered, the needle may bend or break.
■ Twin needle threading
Attach the twin needle.
a
Attach the twin needle in the same way as a
single needle (page 20).
Attach the extra spool pin.
b
Put the extra spool pin in the hole on the top of
the machine. Put the second spool of thread
onto the extra spool pin.
a First spool
b Second spool
Use the thread from the first spool to thread
c
the machine to the needle bar thread guide.
The path for threading the machine to the
needle bar thread guide is the same as for
normally threading the machine (for a single
needle). See page 16 for more details.
Thread the right needle from front to back.
f
Do not pass the thread behind the needle bar
thread guide.
a Left needle thread passes through the needle bar
thread guide.
b Right needle thread passes in front of the needle
bar thread guide.
c Needle bar thread guide
Thread the left needle from front to back.
d
Use the thread from the second spool to thread
e
the machine to the thread take-up lever.
The path for threading the machine to the
thread take-up lever is the same as for normally
threading the machine (for a single needle).
See page 16 for more details.
22
REPLACING THE PRESSER FOOT
CAUTION
● Always turn off the power before you change the presser foot. If you leave the power on and step on the
controller, the machine will start and you may be injured.
● Always use the correct presser foot for the stitch pattern you have chosen. If you use the wrong presser
foot, the needle may strike the presser foot and bend or break, and may cause injury.
● Only use presser feet that have been designed to be used with this machine. Using other any presser feet
may cause an accident or injury.
Press the black button at the back of the
d
Replacing the presser foot
Replace the presser foot as described below.
If the sewing machine has been turned on,
a
turn it off.
CAUTION
● Before replacing the presser foot, be sure to
turn off the sewing machine, otherwise
injuries may occur if the foot controller is
accidentally pressed and the machine starts
sewing.
presser foot holder to release the presser foot.
a Black button
b Presser foot holder
Place a different presser foot below the holder
e
so that the presser foot pin is aligned with the
shank in the holder.
Position the presser foot so the letter indicating
the presser foot type (A, I, etc.) is positioned to
be read.
1
Raise the needle to its highest position by
b
turning the handwheel toward you
(counterclockwise).
Raise the presser foot lever.
c
a Presser foot lever
a Presser foot holder
b Shank
c Pin
Slowly lower the presser foot lever so that the
f
presser foot pin snaps into the shank in the
presser foot holder.
a Presser foot lever
X The presser foot is attached.
23
KNOWING YOUR SEWING MACHINE —————————————————————————————————————————————
—
Raise the presser foot lever to check that the
g
presser foot is securely attached.
Removing the presser foot
holder
Remove the presser foot holder when cleaning the
sewing machine or when installing a presser foot that
does not use the presser foot holder, such as the
quilting foot. Use the screwdriver to remove the
presser foot holder.
■ Removing the presser foot holder
Remove the presser foot.
a
• For details, refer to “Replacing the presser
foot” (page 23).
■ Attaching the presser foot holder
Align the presser foot holder with the lower-
a
left side of the presser bar.
a Presser foot holder
b Presser bar
Hold the presser foot holder in place with
b
your right hand, and then tighten the screw
using the screwdriver in your left hand.
Use the screwdriver to loosen the presser foot
b
holder screw.
a Screwdriver
b Presser foot holder
c Presser foot holder screw
a Screwdriver
b Presser foot holder
c Presser foot holder screw
Note
● If the presser foot holder is not correctly
installed, the thread tension will be
incorrect.
24
2SEWING BASICS
SEWING
Basic sewing operations are described below.
Before operating the sewing machine, read the following precautions.
CAUTION
● While the machine is in operation, pay special attention to the needle location. In addition, keep your
hands away from all moving parts such as the needle and handwheel, otherwise injuries may occur.
● Do not pull or push the fabric too hard while sewing, otherwise injuries may occur or the needle may
break.
● Never use bent needles. Bent needles can easily break, possibly resulting in injuries.
● Make sure that the needle does not strike basting pins, otherwise the needle may break or bend.
General sewing procedure
Follow the basic procedures below to sew.
2
Turn on the
1
machine.
2 Select the stitch.
Attach the presser
3
foot.
4 Start sewing.
Turn on the sewing machine.
For details on turning on the machine, refer to “Power supply” (page 10).
p
Select the stitch appropriate for the area to be sewn.
For details on selecting a stitch, refer to “Selecting stitching” (page 26).
p
Attach the presser foot appropriate for the stitch.
For details on replacing the presser foot, refer to “Replacing the presser
foot” (page 23).
p
Position the fabric, and then start sewing. When sewing is finished, cut the
threads.
For details on starting to sew, refer to “Starting to sew” (page 27).
Turning the stitch selection dial in either direction, select the desired stitch.
aPattern selection dial
Number on dialStitch namePatternPage
1
4-step automatic
buttonhole
2Zigzag stitch
3
4
5
6
7
Zigzag stitch
Zigzag stitch
Zigzag (satin) stitch
Straight stitch
(Center needle position)
Straight stitch
(Left needle position)
bacd
Select the desired length.
36
32, 41
33, 35,
40, 43
33
26
8
Stretch blind
Stitch
33
9Shell tuck stitch43
10Elastic stitch44
Starting to sew
Turn on the sewing machine.
a
Raise the needle to its highest position by
b
turning the handwheel toward you
(counterclockwise).
Raise the presser foot lever.
c
While holding the end of the thread and the
e
fabric with your left hand, turn the handwheel
toward you (counterclockwise) with your
right hand to lower the needle to the starting
point of the stitching.
Lower the presser foot lever.
f
2
a Presser foot lever
Place the fabric under the presser foot, pass
d
the thread under the presser foot, and then
pull out about 5 cm (2 inches) of thread
toward the rear of the machine.
a 5 cm (2 inches)
a Presser foot lever
Slowly press down on the foot controller.
g
X The machine starts sewing.
Take your foot off the foot controller.
h
X The machine stops sewing.
Raise the needle to its highest position by
i
turning the handwheel toward you
(counterclockwise).
cutter on the back of the presser foot bar to
cut them.
The thread tension will affect the quality of your
stitches. You may need to adjust it when you change
fabric or thread.
Memo
● Before beginning to change tension
adjustments make sure the upper thread and
bobbin are inserted correctly.
● We recommend you do a test sample on a
scrap of fabric before you start to sew.
■ Correct tension
a Thread cutter
Sewing in reverse
Reverse sewing is used to lock the threads at the end
of the seam or wherever reinforcement is needed.
Press and hold down the reverse sewing lever
a
while sewing.
Correct tension is important as too much or too
little tension will weaken your seams or cause
puckers on your fabric.
1
a Wrong side
2
b Surface
c Upper thread
d Lower thread
3
4
■ Upper tension is too tight
Loops appear on the surface of the fabric.
To sew forward, release the reverse sewing
b
lever.
Note
● If the bobbin thread was incorrectly
inserted, the upper thread may be too tight.
In this case, refer to “Lower threading”
(page 14) and reinsert the bobbin.
1
a Wrong side
b Surface
2
3
5
4
Solution
Reduce the tension by
turning the upper tensioncontrol dial to a lower
number.
c Upper thread
d Lower thread
e Loops appear on
surface of fabric
28
■ Upper tension is too loose
Loops appear on the wrong side of the fabric.
Note
● If the upper thread was incorrectly
threaded, the upper thread may be too
loose. In this case, refer to “Upper
threading” (page 16) and rethread.
1
2
3
Solution
Increase the tension by
turning the upper tensioncontrol dial to a higher
number.
5
a Wrong side
b Surface
c Upper thread
d Lower thread
e Loops appear on
wrong side of
fabric
4
■ Bobbin tension is too loose
Loops may appear on the surface of the fabric
when sewing thin fabric with thin thread.
1
a Wrong side
b Surface
2
3
5
c Upper thread
d Lower thread
e Loops appear on
surface of fabric
4
Solution
Reduce the tension by
turning the upper tensioncontrol dial to a lower
number.
If the problem persists, increase the tension in
the bobbin by turning the screw clockwise
with a small screwdriver.
Be sure not to turn the screw more than one
full turn. In addition, be sure to return the
screw to its original position before the next
time that the machine is used.
2
Note
● The bobbin thread tension has been
adjusted at the factory for general use. For
most sewing applications, no adjustment is
needed.
Various ways to achieve better results for your sewing projects are described below. Refer to these tips when
sewing your project.
Trial sewing
A trial piece of fabric should be sewn since, depending
on the type of fabric and stitching being sewn, the
desired results may not be achieved.
For the trial sewing, use a piece of fabric and thread
that are the same as those used for your project, and
check the thread tension and stitch length and width.
Since the results differ depending on the type of
stitching and the number of layers of fabric sewn,
perform the trial sewing under the same conditions
that will be used with your project.
Changing the sewing
direction
When the stitching reaches a corner, stop the
a
sewing machine.
Leave the needle lowered (in the fabric). If the
needle was raised, lower the needle by turning
the handwheel toward you (counterclockwise).
CAUTION
● When using the twin needle, be sure to raise
the needle before changing the sewing
direction. If the fabric is turned while the
needle is lowered, the needle may bend or
break.
Raise the presser foot lever, and then turn the
b
fabric.
Turn the fabric using the needle as a pivot.
Sewing curves
Stop sewing, and then slightly change the sewing
direction to sew around the curve.
When sewing along a curve while using a zigzag
stitch, select a shorter stitch length in order to obtain
a finer stitch.
Sewing thick fabrics
■ If the fabric does not fit under the presser foot
If the fabric does not fit easily under the presser
foot, raise the presser foot lever even higher to
bring the presser foot to its highest position.
Lower the presser foot lever and continue
c
sewing.
30
CAUTION
● If fabric more than 6 mm (15/64 inches) thick
is sewn or if the fabric is pushed with too
much force, the needle may bend or break.
Sewing thin fabrics
When sewing thin fabrics, the stitching may become
misaligned or the fabric may not feed correctly. If
this occurs, place thin paper or stabilizer material
under the fabric and sew it together with the fabric.
When you have finished sewing, tear off any excess
paper.
a Stabilizer material or paper
Sewing stretch fabrics
First, baste the pieces of fabric together, and then
sew without stretching the fabric.
2
a Basting
Using a free-arm style
Free-arm sewing is convenient for sewing tubular
and hard-to-reach areas.
To change your machine to the free-arm style, lift the
bottom of the flat bed attachment toward you, and
then pull the flat bed attachment out to remove it.
You can use the zigzag stitches to join together
seams and finish them in one operation. They are
also useful for sewing stretch materials.
c
Number
on dial
2
3
4
5
a
b
Stitch nameApplication
Zigzag stitch
Overcasting and
Zigzag stitch
Zigzag stitch
Zigzag (satin)
stitch
Select a stitch.
• For details, refer to “Selecting stitching”
(page 26).
Lower the needle into the fabric at the
beginning of the stitching.
attaching appliqués.
Select the desired
width.
Overcasting and
attaching appliqués
with the decorative
satin stitches.
• For details, refer to “Starting to sew”
(page 27).
Memo
● When sewing with a zigzag stitch, use
straight stitches at the beginning and end of
the zigzag stitch for reinforcement.
When sewing is finished, cut the thread.
d
• For details, refer to “Starting to sew”
(page 27).
CAUTION
● Slowly turn the handwheel toward you
(counterclockwise) and check that the needle
does not touch the presser foot. If the needle
hits the presser foot, the needle may bend or
break.
32
Basic stitching
Blind hem stitching
Straight stitches are used for sewing plain seams.
Two stitches are available for basic stitching.
Number on dialStitch nameApplication
6
7
Baste or pin together the fabric pieces.
a
Select a stitch.
b
• For details, refer to “Selecting stitching”
(page 26).
Lower the needle into the fabric at the
c
beginning of the stitching.
Start sewing.
d
• For details, refer to “Starting to sew”
(page 27).
Straight stitch
(Center needle
position)
Straight stitch
(Left needle
position)
Attaching
zippers, basic
stitching, and
sewing gathers
or darning, etc.
Basic stitching,
sewing gathers
or pintucks, etc.
You can use the Blind Hem Stitch to finish the edge
of a project, like the hem of a pair of trousers,
without the stitch showing.
Number
on dial
8
a
b
Stitch nameApplication
Stretch blind
Stitch
Reverse the skirt or pants.
a Right side of fabric
b Bottom side
Fold the fabric along the desired edge of the
hem, and press.
Blind hem stitching on
stretch fabrics.
3
When sewing is finished, cut the thread.
e
• For details, refer to “Starting to sew”
(page 27).
Buttonholes can be sewn and buttons can be sewn on.
Number on dialStitch nameApplication
1
4-step
automatic
buttonhole
Buttonholes on
medium weight
fabrics.
Buttonholes are sewn from the front of the presser
foot to the back, as shown below.
StepSewn portion
Step a
(Front end
of button hole)
Step b
(Left side)
Step c
(Back end
of button hole)
Step d
(Right side)
Memo
● Before sewing buttonholes, check the stitch
length and width by sewing a trial
buttonhole on a scrap piece of fabric.
● When sewing buttonholes on stretch
fabrics, place stabilizer material under the
fablic.
Use chalk to mark the position and length of
a
the buttonhole on the fabric.
1
a Marks on fabric
Attach buttonhole foot “A” and push the
b
outside frame back until the sliding insert
reaches the front of the outside frame.
a Reinforcement stitching
Making the buttonhole
The names of parts of buttonhole foot “A”, which is
used for sewing buttonholes, are indicated below.
a Presser foot scale
b Pin
c Marks on buttonhole foot
d 5 mm (3/16 inches)
36
Select stitch “a” of the 4-step automatic
c
buttonhole (1).
Position the fabric under the presser foot so
d
that the middle of the front chalk line is
directly in the center of the presser foot and
aligned with the two red lines on the insert.
Pass the upper thread down through the hole
in the presser foot.
a Mark on fabric
b Red marks on the sliding insert
Start sewing. Sew 5 to 6 stitches.
e
Stop sewing when the needle is at the left side
f
of the stitching, and then raise the needle by
turning the handwheel toward you.
Select stitch “b” of the 4-step automatic
g
buttonhole (1).
Start sewing, and then sew the length of the
h
chalk line.
Stop sewing when the needle is at the right
i
side of the stitching, and then raise the needle
by turning the handwheel toward you.
Select stitch “c” (same as “a”) of the 4-step
j
automatic buttonhole (1).
Start sewing. Sew 5 to 6 stitches.
k
Stop sewing when the needle is at the right
l
side of the stitching, and then raise the needle
by turning the handwheel toward you.
Select stitch “d” of the 4-step automatic
m
buttonhole (1).
Insert a pin at the end of the buttonhole
p
stitching to prevent the stitching from being
cut, and then use a seam ripper to cut towards
the pin and open the buttonhole.
2
1
a Seam ripper
b Pin
CAUTION
● When opening the buttonhole with the seam
ripper, do not place your hands in the cutting
path, otherwise injuries may result if the seam
ripper slips. Do not use the seam ripper in any
other way than how it is intended.
3
Start sewing. Sew the right side of the
n
buttonhole until the needle reaches the
stitching sewn in step e.
For reinforcement, turn the fabric 90 degrees
counterclockwise, select the straight stitch (6
through 10) with the desired length, and then
sew to the edge of the front bar tack.
If the stitching on the two sides of the buttonhole is
not uniform, the stitching can adjusted with the
buttonhole fine-adjusting screw.
a Buttonhole fine-adjusting screw
■ If the right side is too loose compared to the
left side
Use the enclosed large screwdriver to turn
the buttonhole fine-adjusting screw in the direction.
Button sewing
Buttons can be sewn on with the sewing machine.
Buttons with 2 or with 4 holes can be attached.
Measure the distance between the holes in the
a
button to be attached, and then select the
appropriate zigzag stitch (2, 3 or 4) according
to the following table.
Distance between holes
1.6 mm (1/16 inches)2
3.2 mm (1/8 inches)3
4.8 mm (3/16 inches)4
Attach the button sewing foot “M”.
b
Place the darning plate on the needle plate as
c
shown below.
Number
of dial
■ If the right side is too tight compared to the
left side
Use the enclosed large screwdriver to turn
the buttonhole fine-adjusting screw in the +
direction.
Place a button between the presser foot and
d
the fabric.
• When attaching four-hole buttons, first sew
the two holes closest to you. Then, slide the
button so that the needle goes into the two
holes toward the rear of the sewing machine,
and then sew them in the same way.
38
Turn the handwheel toward you
e
(counterclockwise) to check that the needle
correctly goes into the two holes of the
button.
If the needle hits the button, return to step
CAUTION
a.
● When sewing, be sure that the needle does
not touch the button, otherwise the needle
may bend or break.
Start sewing.
f
• After sewing for about 10 seconds at a low
speed, press and hold down the reverse
sewing lever to sew a few reinforcement
stitches.
Pull the fabric to the left side of the machine,
g
and then cut the upper and lower threads,
leaving a length of 15 cm (6 inches).
Pull the upper thread at the end of the
h
stitching to the wrong side of the fabric, and
then tie it with the bobbin thread.
Use scissors to cut the upper thread and the
bobbin thread at the beginning of the stitching.
You can use the zipper foot “I” to sew different types of zippers, and can easily position it to the right or left side
of the needle.
When sewing the right side of the zipper, attach the shank to the left pin of the zipper foot. When sewing the left
side of the zipper, attach the shank to the right pin of the zipper foot.
Number on dialStitch nameApplication
6
a Zipper foot “I”
b Right pin for sewing the left side of the zipper
c Left pin for sewing the right side of the zipper
Select the desired length for straight stitch (6).
a
Lower the presser foot lever and fix either the
b
left or right pin of the zipper foot onto the
shank.
Fold the edge of the fabric 2 cm (3/4 inches)
c
and place the zipper under the folded section.
Lower the needle into the notch located either
on the left or right side of the zipper foot.
Straight stitch
(Center needle
position)
Attaching
zippers, basic
stitching, and
sewing gathers
or darning, etc.
Sew from the bottom of the zipper toward the
d
top on both sides. The needle should be
positioned on the zipper side of the foot for
best results.
To sew the opposite side of the zipper, release
e
the foot by pressing the button located at the
back of the presser foot, fit the zipper foot on
the other side of the zipper and continue
sewing using the other side notch.
CAUTION
● Make sure the needle does not hit the zipper
during sewing. If the needle hits the zipper,
the needle may break and you may be injured.
CAUTION
● Turn the handwheel by hand to make sure the
needle does not hit the presser foot before
you start sewing. If you choose a different
stitch, the needle will hit the presser foot and
break the needle. You may also be injured.
40
APPLIQUÉ, MONOGRAMMING AND EMBROIDERING
Zigzag stitches can be used for sewing appliqués, monogramming and embroidering.
Number
on dial
2
3
4
5
Stitch nameApplication
Zigzag stitch
Overcasting and
Zigzag stitch
Zigzag stitch
Zigzag (satin)
stitch
attaching appliqués.
Select the desired
width.
Overcasting and
attaching appliqués
with the decorative
satin stitches.
Appliqués
You can create an appliqué by cutting a different
piece of fabric into a shape and using it as a
decoration.
Baste the cut design to the fabric.
a
Carefully sew around the edge of the design.
c
Memo
● Make reinforcing straight stitches at the
beginning and the end of stitching.
CAUTION
● Be careful that the needle does not hit a pin
during sewing, as the needle can break. You
may also be injured.
Cut away any fabric that is left outside the
d
stitching.
3
Select a stitch.
b
Remove the basting, if necessary.
e
Monogramming and
embroidering
Place the darning plate on the needle plate as
a
shown below, and then remove both the
presser foot and presser foot holder assembly.
design (for embroidering) on the surface of
the fabric.
Put the fabric in the embroidery hoop with
d
the surface of the fabric facing up inside the
well.
Place the project under the needle and lower
e
the presser bar.
Draw up the lower thread through the project
f
at the starting position by turning the
handwheel toward you (counterclockwise),
and then sew a few stitches to reinforce the
stitching.
■ Monogramming
Sew the lettering at a constant speed by
moving the hoop slowly.
■ Embroidering
Sew along the outline of the design by
moving the hoop slowly.
Then, sew to completely fill in the design
with stitches by alternately sewing from the
outline of the design to the inside and from
the inside to the outline.
Grip the hoop with the thumbs and
g
forefingers of both hands while pressing the
fabric with the middle and third fingers, and
support the outside of the hoop with your
little fingers.
Start sewing.
h
CAUTION
● Be sure to keep your fingers away from
moving parts, especially needles.
Memo
● Be sure to keep the stitches close together.
Select the desired length for straight stitch (6)
i
and sew a few stitches for reinforcing.
Memo
● When the hoop is moved quickly, the
stitches are longer. When the hoop is
moved slowly, the stitches are shorter.
42
DECORATIVE STITCHING
Various decorative stitches can be sewn with this sewing machine.
Gathering
Number on dialStitch nameApplication
6
Select the desired length for straight stitch (6).
a
Loosen the tension of the upper thread (to
b
about 2).
• For details, refer to “Thread tension”
(page 28).
Sew a single or multiple parallel rows of
c
stitches.
• Do not sew reverse stitches or cut the thread.
Pull the bobbin threads to create gathers.
d
Smooth the gathers by ironing them.
Straight stitch
(Center needle
position)
Attaching zippers,
basic stitching,
and sewing
gathers or
darning, etc.
Shell tuck stitching
Number
on dial
9
The gathers that look like shells are called “shell
tucks”. They are used to decorate trims, the front of
blouses or cuffs made of thin fabrics.
a
b
Stitch nameApplication
Shell tuck stitch Shell tuck stitching
Fold the fabric along the bias.
Select the shell tuck stitch (9), and increase
the thread tension.
• For details, refer to “Selecting stitching”
(page 26).
The elastic stitch can be used in 3 ways: mending,
sewing elastic or joining fabric. Each is explained
below.
Select the elastic stitch (10).
■ Mending
Stitch nameApplication
Elastic stitching
Place the reinforcement fabric under the tear
to be mended, and then sew over the tear.
Mending, sewing
elastic tape or joining
fabric.
Put the edges of the two pieces of fabric
together, and then place them under the
presser foot with the fabric edges under the
center of the presser foot.
Then, start sewing the edges of the two
fabrics together.
Memo
● Make reinforcing reverse stitches at the
beginning and the end of stitching.
■ Sewing elastic tape
Place the elastic tape on the fabric, and then
sew over the elastic tape while holding the
tape both in front and behind the presser foot.
44
4APPENDIX
MAINTENANCE
Simple sewing machine maintenance operations are described below.
Oiling
Turn off the machine and unplug it.
a
Put 2 to 3 drops of oil at each of the points
b
indicated below.
Be sure to wipe any excess oil off the
machine.
Changing the bulb
CAUTION
● Unplug the power supply cord before
changing the bulb, otherwise injuries or an
electric shock may occur.
Turn off the machine and unplug it.
a
Loosen the face plate screw.
b
Remove the face plate from the machine.
c
4
After oiling, run the machine for a short time
c
at a fast speed without thread.
Memo
● Make sure to oil the machine once a week if
you use it more than an hour a day. If you
use it more often, oil every day.
● Sewing machine oil is available at your
local sewing machine dealer or service
center.
● Do not apply too much oil as it may soil the
thread and fabric.
Note
● Hold the face plate securely while removing
or attaching it.
● Be sure to unplug the machine before
cleaning it, otherwise injuries or an electric
shock may occur.
Turn off the machine and unplug it.
a
Raise the needle and the presser foot, and
b
a bulb
b Loosen
c Tighten
Attach the face plate and fasten the screw
e
again.
then remove the presser foot and the needle.
Remove the flat bed attachment and open the
c
shuttle cover at the front of the free arm.
Remove the bobbin case by pulling its latch
d
toward you and pulling it out from the shuttle
race.
Cleaning the machine
surface
If the surface of the machine is dirty, lightly soak a
cloth in neutral detergent, squeeze it out firmly, and
then wipe the surface of the machine. After cleaning
it once with a wet cloth, wipe it again with a dry
cloth.
CAUTION
● Unplug the power supply cord before
cleaning the machine, otherwise injuries or an
electric shock may occur.
a Bobbin case latch
Slide the latch levers out from the retaining
e
ring to remove it.
a Retaining ring
b Latch lever
46
Remove the hook by grasping its center post
f
and pulling it out.
a Retaining ring
b Hook
c Hook center post
Attach the bobbin case, the presser foot and
k
the needle before using the machine.
Cleaning the feed dogs
CAUTION
● Make sure you unplug the machine before
you clean it. Otherwise, you may get an
electric shock or be injured.
Turn off the machine and unplug it.
a
Use a brush to remove any accumulated lint
g
and thread from the retaining ring, hook,
driver and race body.
a Retaining ring
b Driver
c Race body
Use a cloth dampened with machine oil to
h
wipe the shuttle race in order to remove any
lint.
Keep the carton and packing materials for future use.
When packing up the machine again, pack it
properly as described below.
If it is not packed properly, damage may occur
during shipping.
Note
● Remember to return the screw to its original
setting before starting your next project.
■ Bobbin tension is too loose
Loops appear on the surface of the fabric.
1
a Wrong side
b Surface
2
3
5
c Upper thread
d Lower thread
e Loops appear on
surface of fabric
4
Solution
Reduce the tension by
turning the upper tensioncontrol dial to a lower
number.
Note
● If the loops still appear on the surface of the
fabric after you adjust the upper tension, the
bobbin thread may be too loose. In this
case, turn the screw clockwise, being
careful not to over-tighten the screw,
approximately 30-45 degrees to increase
bobbin tension. After you adjust the bobbin
thread, adjust the upper thread to match the
bobbin thread.
IMPORTANT
● This packing material is designed to prevent
damage in transit.
● Save this packing material in case it is needed
to transport this sewing machine.
Bobbin case tension
adjustment
The bobbin thread tension has already been adjusted
at the factory for general use. For most sewing
applications, no adjustment is needed.
When sewing with thin thread on thin fabrics, the
thread tension may not be adjusted adequately with
the upper tension control dial. Therefore, the thread
tension must be adjusted according to the procedure
described below.
48
a Screw
■ Bobbin tension is too tight
Loops appear on the wrong side of the fabric.
1
2
3
5
a Wrong side
b Surface
c Upper thread
d Lower thread
e Loops appear on
wrong side of
fabric
4
Solution
Increase the tension by
turning the upper tensioncontrol dial to a higher
number.
Note
● If the loops still appear on the wrong side of
the fabric after you adjust the upper tension,
the bobbin thread may be too tight. In this
case, turn the screw counterclockwise being
careful not to over-loosen the screw,
approximately 30-45 degrees to decrease
bobbin tension. After you adjust the bobbin
thread, adjust the upper thread to match the
bobbin thread.
If the machine stops operating correctly, check the following possible problems before requesting service.
You can solve most problems by yourself. If you need additional help, the Brother Solutions Center offers the
latest FAQs and troubleshooting tips. Visit us at [http://solutions.brother.com].
If the problem persists, contact your dealer or the nearest authorized service center.
SymptomPossible causeHow to put it rightReference
The machine is not plugged in.Plug the machine in.page 10
The sewing
machine does
not work.
The needle
breaks.
The upper
thread breaks.
The main power switch is turned off. Turn on the main power switch.page 10
The bobbin winder shaft is pushed to
the right.
You have not used the foot controller properly.
You have not inserted the needle
properly.
The needle clamp screw is loose.
The needle is bent or blunt.Replace the needle.page 20
You have not used the right combination of fabric, thread and needle.
The presser foot you are using is not
appropriate for the type of stitch that
you want to sew.
The upper thread tension is too tight. Loosen the upper thread tension.page 28
You are pulling the fabric too much. Lightly guide the fabric.–
The area around the hole in the needle plate is scratched.
The area around the hole in the
presser foot is scratched.
The bobbin case is scratched.
You have not used a bobbin that has
been designed for this machine.
You have not threaded the upper
thread properly. (for example, you
have not fitted the spool properly, or
the thread has come out of the guide
above the needle.)
There are knots or tangles in the
thread.
The needle is not appropriate for the
thread you are using.
The upper thread tension is too tight. Loosen the upper thread tension.page 28
The thread is tangled, for example,
in the shuttle race.
Move the bobbin winder shaft to the
left.
Use the foot controller properly.page 11
Insert the needle properly.page 20
Use the screwdriver to firmly tighten
the screw.
Choose a thread and needle that are
appropriate for the type of fabric.
Attach the presser foot that is correct
for the type of stitch that you want to
sew.
Replace the needle plate.
Contact your retailer or the nearest
authorized service center.
Replace the presser foot.
Contact your retailer or the nearest
authorized service center.
Replace the bobbin case.
Contact your retailer or the nearest
authorized service center.
Incorrect bobbins will not work
properly. Only use a bobbin that has
been designed for this machine.
Correct the upper threading.page 16
Remove any knots or tangles.–
Choose a needle that is appropriate
for the type of stitch.
Remove the tangle thread. If the
thread is tangled in the shuttle race,
clean the shuttle race.
page 13
page 21
page 19
page 35, 36,
38, 40, 41
–
–
–
page 12
page 19
page 46
50
SymptomPossible causeHow to put it rightReference
The needle is bent or blunt.Replace the needle.page 20
The upper
thread breaks.
The lower
thread is tangled
or breaks.
The thread is
tangled on the
wrong side of
the fabric.
The thread tension is incorrect.
The upper
thread is too
tight.
You have not inserted the needle
properly.
The area around the hole in the needle plate is scratched.
The area around the hole in the
presser foot is scratched.
The bobbin case is scratched, or has
a burr on it.
You have not used a bobbin that has
been designed for this machine.
You have not wound the bobbin
thread properly.
The bobbin is scratched or does not
turn smoothly.
The thread is tangled.
You have not used a bobbin that has
been designed for this machine.
Bobbin is set incorrectly.Reset the bobbin thread correctly.page 14
The upper thread was not threaded
correctly.
You have not threaded the upper
thread properly.
You have not wound the bobbin
thread properly.
You have not used the right
combination of fabric, thread and
needle.
You have not attached the presserfoot holder properly.
The thread tension is incorrect.
You have not used a bobbin that has
been designed for this machine.
Bobbin is set incorrectly.Reset the bobbin thread correctly.page 14
The bobbin thread is incorrectly
installed.
Insert the needle properly.page 20
Replace the needle plate.
Contact your retailer or the nearest
authorised service center.
Replace the presser foot.
Contact your retailer or the nearest
authorised service center.
Replace the bobbin case.
Contact your retailer or the nearest
authorised service center.
Incorrect bobbins will not work
properly. Only use a bobbin that has
been designed for this machine.
Wind the bobbin thread properly.page 12
Replace the bobbin.–
Remove the tangled thread and
clean the shuttle race.
Incorrect bobbins will not work
properly. Only use a bobbin that has
been designed for this machine.
Correct the upper threading.page 16
Correct the upper threading.page 16
Wind the bobbin thread properly.page 12
Choose a thread and needle that are
appropriate for the type of fabric.
Attach the presser-foot holder properly.
Adjust the tension of the upper
thread.
Incorrect bobbins will not work
properly. Only use a bobbin that has
been designed for this machine.