Operation Manual
Sewing Machine
Product Code: 888-F00/F10/H32
Be sure to read this document before using the machine.
We recommend that you keep this document nearby for future reference.
INTRODUCTION
i
Thank you for purchasing this machine. Before using this machine, carefully read the “IMPORTANT SAFETY
INSTRUCTIONS”, and then study this manual for the correct operation of the various functions.
In addition, after you have finished reading this manual, store it where it can quickly be accessed for future reference.
Please read these safety instructions before attempting to use the machine.
DANGER - To reduce the risk of electrical shock
1Always unplug the machine from the electrical outlet immediately after using, when cleaning, making any user
servicing adjustments mentioned in this manual, or if you are leaving the machine unattended.
WARNING - To reduce the risk of burns, fire, electrical shock, or injury to
persons.
2Always unplug the machine from the electrical outlet when making any adjustments mentioned in the instruction
manual.
• To unplug the machine, switch the machine to the symbol “O” position to turn it off, then grasp the plug and pull
it out of the electrical outlet. Do not pull on the cord.
• Plug the machine directly into the electrical outlet. Do not use an extension cord.
• Always unplug your machine if there is a power failure.
3Electrical Hazards:
• This machine should be connected to an AC power source within the range indicated on the rating label. Do not
connect it to a DC power source or converter. If you are not sure what kind of power source you have, contact a
qualified electrician.
• This machine is approved for use in the country of purchase only.
4Never operate this machine if it has a damaged cord or plug, if it is not working properly, has been dropped or
damaged, or water is spilled on the unit. Return the machine to the nearest authorized Brother dealer for
examination, repair, electrical or mechanical adjustment.
• While the machine is stored or in use if you notice anything unusual, such as an odor, heat, discoloration or
deformation, stop using the machine immediately and unplug the power cord.
• When transporting the machine, be sure to carry it by its handle. Lifting the machine by any other part may
damage the machine or result in the machine falling, which could cause injuries.
• When lifting the machine, be careful not to make any sudden or careless movements, which may cause a
personal injury.
INTRODUCTION
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
ii
5Always keep your work area clear:
• Never operate the machine with any air openings blocked. Keep ventilation openings of the machine and foot
control free from the build up of lint, dust, and loose cloth.
• Do not store objects on the foot controller.
• Do not use extension cords. Plug the machine directly into the electrical outlet.
• Never drop or insert foreign objects in any opening.
• Do not operate where aerosol (spray) products are being used or where oxygen is being administered.
• Do not use the machine near a heat source, such as a stove or iron; otherwise, the machine, power cord or
garment being sewn may ignite, resulting in fire or an electric shock.
• Do not place this machine on an unstable surface, such as an unsteady or slanted table, otherwise the machine
may fall, resulting in injuries.
6Special care is required when sewing:
• Always pay close attention to the needle. Do not use bent or damaged needles.
• Keep fingers away from all moving parts. Special care is required around the machine needle.
• Switch the machine to the symbol “O” position to turn it off when making any adjustments in the needle area.
• Do not use a damaged or incorrect needle plate, as it could cause the needle to break.
• Do not push or pull the fabric when sewing, and follow careful instruction when free motion stitching so that
you do not deflect the needle and cause it to break.
7This machine is not a toy:
• Your close attention is necessary when the machine is used by or near children.
• The plastic bag that this machine was supplied in should be kept out of the reach of children or disposed of.
Never allow children to play with the bag due to the danger of suffocation.
• Do not use outdoors.
8For a longer service life:
• When storing this machine, avoid direct sunlight and high humidity locations. Do not use or store the machine
near a space heater, iron, halogen lamp, or other hot objects.
• Use only neutral soaps or detergents to clean the case. Benzene, thinner, and scouring powders can damage the
case and machine, and should never be used.
• Always consult the Operation Manual when replacing or installing any assemblies, the presser feet, needle, or
other parts to assure correct installation.
9For repair or adjustment:
• If the light unit is damaged, it must be replaced by an authorized Brother dealer.
• In the event a malfunction occurs or adjustment is required, first follow the troubleshooting table in the back of
the Operation Manual to inspect and adjust the machine yourself. If the problem persists, please consult your
local authorized Brother dealer.
Use this machine only for its intended use as described in the manual.
Use accessories recommended by the manufacturer as contained in this manual.
The contents of this manual and specifications of this product are subject to change without notice.
For additional product information, visit our website at www.brother.com
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
iii
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
This machine is intended for household use.
FOR USERS IN COUNTRIES EXCEPT EUROPEAN COUNTRIES
This appliance is not intended for use by persons (including children) with reduced
physical, sensory or mental capabilities, or lack of experience and knowledge,
unless they have been given supervision or instruction concerning use of the
appliance by a person responsible for their safety. Children should be supervised
to ensure that they do not play with the appliance.
FOR USERS IN EUROPEAN COUNTRIES
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.
FOR USERS IN THE UK, EIRE, MALTA
AND CYPRUS ONLY
IMPORTANT
• In the event of replacing the plug fuse, use a fuse approved by ASTA to BS 1362, i.e. carrying the mark,
rating as marked on plug.
• Always replace the fuse cover. Never use plugs with the fuse cover omitted.
• If the available electrical outlet is not suitable for the plug supplied with this equipment, you should contact your
authorized Brother dealer to obtain the correct lead.
ABOUT THIS MANUAL
iv
ABOUT THIS MANUAL
This manual was written for several machine models.
The illustrations of the machine in this manual may differ from the actual design.
In addition, since the specifications differ depending on the model, some functions described in this manual may apply to
only some models.
WHAT YOU CAN DO WITH THIS MACHINE
B Basic operations
After purchasing your machine, be sure to read this section first. This section provides details on the initial setup
procedures as well as descriptions of this machine’s more useful functions.
Chapter 1 GETTING READY
Page B-2
To learn the operation of the principal parts and the screens
Chapter 2 STARTING TO SEW
Page B-31
To learn how to prepare for sewing and basic sewing operations
S Sewing
This section describes procedures for using the various utility stitches as well as other functions. It provides details on
basic machine sewing in addition to the more expressive features of the machine, such as sewing tubular pieces and
buttonholes.
Chapter 1 SEWING ATTRACTIVE FINISHES
Page S-2
Tips for sewing attractive finishes and various fabrics
Chapter 2 UTILITY STITCHES
Page S-6
Sew pre-programmed frequently used stitches
D Decorative sewing
This section provides instructions on sewing character stitches and decorative stitches as well as on adjusting and editing
them.
Chapter 1 CHARACTER / DECORATIVE STITCHES
Page D-2
The variety of stitches widen your creativity
A Appendix
This section provides important information for operating this machine.
Chapter 1 MAINTENANCE AND TROUBLESHOOTING
Page A-2
The various maintenance and troubleshooting procedures are described.
CONTENTS
v
INTRODUCTION.................................................. i
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS ................. i
ABOUT THIS MANUAL ...................................... iv
WHAT YOU CAN DO WITH THIS MACHINE.... iv
B Basic operations
Chapter 1 GETTING READY 2
Names of Machine Parts and Their Functions ...... 2
Machine ................................................................................ 2
Needle and presser foot section .................................................. 4
Operation buttons.................................................................. 4
Operation panel and operation keys ...................................... 5
Using the flat bed attachment ................................................ 6
Included accessories .............................................................. 7
Optional accessories.............................................................. 8
Turning the Machine On/Off................................ 9
Turning on the machine....................................................... 10
Turning off the machine....................................................... 10
LCD .................................................................... 11
Viewing the LCD ................................................................. 11
Adjusting input sensitivity for operation keys ....................... 12
Winding/Installing the Bobbin............................ 13
Winding the bobbin............................................................. 13
Installing the bobbin ............................................................ 16
Upper Threading ................................................ 19
Threading the upper thread.................................................. 19
Threading the needle ........................................................... 21
Threading the needle manually (without using the needle
threader) .............................................................................. 22
Pulling up the bobbin thread................................................ 23
Using the twin needle .......................................................... 23
Fabric/Thread/Needle Combinations ................. 26
Replacing the Needle ......................................... 27
Checking the needle ............................................................ 27
Replacing the needle ........................................................... 27
Replacing the Presser Foot ................................. 29
Replacing the presser foot .................................................... 29
Removing and attaching the presser foot holder................... 30
Chapter 2 STARTING TO SEW 31
Sewing................................................................ 31
Stitch selection methods ...................................................... 31
Selecting a stitch pattern ...................................................... 32
Sewing a stitch..................................................................... 33
Sewing reinforcement stitches.............................................. 35
Automatic reinforcement stitching ....................................... 35
Reinforcement priority ......................................................... 37
Setting the Stitch ................................................ 38
Setting the stitch width......................................................... 38
Setting the stitch length ........................................................ 38
Setting the thread tension..................................................... 39
Useful Functions................................................. 40
Automatically cutting the thread (Only on models with
automatic thread cutting key)............................................... 40
Adjusting the presser foot pressure ....................................... 41
Stitch Setting Chart ............................................ 42
S Sewing
Chapter 1 SEWING ATTRACTIVE
FINISHES 2
Sewing Tips.......................................................... 2
Trial sewing............................................................................ 2
Changing the sewing direction
.................................................. 2
Sewing curves ........................................................................ 2
Sewing cylindrical pieces ....................................................... 2
Sewing an even seam allowance ............................................ 3
Sewing Various Fabrics ........................................ 4
Sewing thick fabrics ............................................................... 4
Sewing thin fabrics ................................................................. 4
Sewing stretch fabrics............................................................. 5
Sewing leathers or vinyl fabrics .............................................. 5
Sewing hook-and-loop fastener tape....................................... 5
Chapter 2 UTILITY STITCHES 6
Basic Stitching...................................................... 6
Basting ................................................................................... 6
Basic stitching ........................................................................ 6
Blind Hem Stitching ............................................. 8
Overcasting Stitches .......................................... 11
Sewing overcasting stitches using overcasting foot “G” ........ 11
Sewing overcasting stitches using zigzag foot “J”.................. 12
Sewing overcasting stitches using the side cutter
(sold separately with some models) ...................................... 12
Buttonhole Stitching/Button Sewing .................. 14
Buttonhole sewing................................................................ 14
Button sewing ...................................................................... 17
Zipper Insertion ................................................. 20
Inserting a centered zipper ................................................... 20
Inserting a side zipper .......................................................... 21
Zipper/piping Insertion ...................................... 24
Inserting a centered zipper ................................................... 24
Inserting a piping.................................................................. 25
Sewing Stretch Fabrics and Elastic Tape............. 26
Stretch stitching.................................................................... 26
Elastic attaching ................................................................... 26
Appliqué, Patchwork and Quilt Stitching........... 27
Appliqué stitching ................................................................ 27
Patchwork (crazy quilt) stitching........................................... 28
Piecing ................................................................................. 28
Quilting................................................................................ 30
Free motion quilting ............................................................. 31
Satin stitching using the sewing speed controller .................. 32
Reinforcement Stitching..................................... 33
Triple stretch stitching .......................................................... 33
Bar tack stitching.................................................................. 33
Darning................................................................................ 34
Eyelet Stitching .................................................. 36
Decorative Stitching .......................................... 37
Fagoting ............................................................................... 37
Scallop stitching ................................................................... 38
Smocking ............................................................................. 38
Shell tuck stitching ............................................................... 39
Joining.................................................................................. 39
Heirloom stitching................................................................ 40
CONTENTS
CONTENTS
vi
D Decorative sewing
Chapter 1 CHARACTER / DECORATIVE
STITCHES 2
Sewing the Various Built-in Decorative Patterns
.... 2
Selecting stitch patterns .......................................................... 2
Deleting a pattern................................................................... 3
Sewing attractive finishes ....................................................... 3
Basic sewing .......................................................................... 4
Combining patterns ................................................................ 5
Checking the selected pattern................................................. 6
Repeating combined patterns ................................................. 6
Saving a pattern...................................................................... 6
Retrieving a pattern ................................................................ 7
Realigning the pattern ............................................................ 7
A Appendix
Chapter 1 MAINTENANCE AND
TROUBLESHOOTING 2
Care and Maintenance.......................................... 2
Restrictions on oiling.............................................................. 2
Precautions on storing the machine........................................ 2
Cleaning the LCD screen........................................................ 2
Cleaning the machine surface ................................................ 2
Cleaning the race ................................................................... 2
Troubleshooting.................................................... 5
Frequent troubleshooting topics ............................................. 5
Upper thread tightened up ..................................................... 5
Tangled thread on wrong side of fabric .................................. 6
Incorrect thread tension.......................................................... 7
Fabric is caught in the machine and cannot be removed ........ 8
If the thread becomes tangled under the bobbin winder seat
..... 11
Error message “E06” appears in the LCD .............................. 13
List of symptoms................................................................... 15
Error messages...................................................................... 21
Operation beep .................................................................... 22
Index .................................................................. 23
Basic
operations
This section provides details on the initial setup procedures as well as descriptions of this
machine’s more useful functions.
Page number starts with “B” in this section.
Chapter1 GETTING READY....................................................B-2
Chapter2 STARTING TO SEW ..............................................B-31
Names of Machine Parts and Their Functions
B-2
The names of the various parts of the machine and their functions are described below. Before using the machine,
carefully read these descriptions to learn the names of the machine parts and their locations.
Machine
■ Front view
The appearance of the machine differs depending on the
model.
1 Top cover
Open the top cover to place the spool of thread on the spool
pin.
2 Thread guide plate
Pass the thread around the thread guide plate when threading
the upper thread.
3 Bobbin winding thread guide and pretension disk
Pass the thread under this thread guide and around the
pretension disk when winding the bobbin thread.
4 Spool cap
Use the spool cap to hold the spool of thread in place.
5 Spool pin
Place a spool of thread on the spool pin.
6 Bobbin winder
Use the bobbin winder when winding the bobbin.
7 LCD (liquid crystal display)
Settings for the selected stitch and error messages appear in
the LCD. (page B-11)
8 Operation panel
From the operation panel, stitch settings can be selected and
edited, and operations for using the machine can be selected.
(page B-5)
9 Operation buttons and sewing speed controller
Use these buttons and the slide to operate the machine.
(page B-4)
0 Flat bed attachment
Insert the presser foot accessory tray into the accessory
compartment of the flat bed attachment. Remove the flat bed
attachment when sewing cylindrical pieces such as sleeve
cuffs.
A Thread cutter
Pass the threads through the thread cutter to cut them.
B Needle threader lever
Use the needle threader lever to thread the needle.
C Thread tension dial
Use the dial to adjust the upper thread tension. (page B-39)
Chapter 1
GETTING READY
Names of Machine Parts and Their Functions
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Names of Machine Parts and Their Functions
GETTING READY
Basic operations B-3
B
■ Right-side/rear view
The appearance of the machine differs depending on the
model.
1 Handwheel
Turn the handwheel toward you (counterclockwise) to raise and
lower the needle to sew one stitch.
2 Presser foot pressure dial
Adjust the amount of pressure that the presser foot applies to
the fabric.
3 Handle
Carry the machine by its handle when transporting.
4 Presser foot lever
Raise and lower the presser foot lever to raise and lower the
presser foot.
5 Feed dog position switch
Use the feed dog position switch to raise and lower the feed
dogs. (page S-31)
6 Main power switch
Use the main power switch to turn the machine on and off.
7 Power supply jack
Insert the plug on the power supply cord into the power supply
jack.
8 Foot controller
Depress the foot controller to control the speed of the machine.
(page B-34)
9 Air vent
The air vent allows the air surrounding the motor to circulate.
Do not cover the air vent while the machine is being used.
0 Foot controller jack
Insert the plug on the end of the foot controller cable into the
foot controller jack.
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Names of Machine Parts and Their Functions
B-4
Needle and presser foot section
1 Needle bar thread guide
Pass the upper thread through the needle bar thread guide.
2 Needle plate
The needle plate is marked with guides for sewing straight
seams.
3 Needle plate cover
Remove the needle plate cover to clean the bobbin case and
race.
4 Bobbin cover/bobbin case
Remove the bobbin cover, and then insert the bobbin into the
bobbin case.
5 Feed dogs
The feed dogs feed the fabric in the sewing direction.
6 Presser foot
The presser foot applies pressure consistently on the fabric as
the sewing takes place. Attach the appropriate presser foot for
the selected stitch.
7 Presser foot holder
The presser foot is attached onto the presser foot holder.
8 Presser foot holder screw
Use the presser foot holder screw to hold the presser foot in
place. (page B-30)
9 Buttonhole lever
Lower the buttonhole lever when sewing buttonholes and bar
tacks or when darning.
Operation buttons
1 “Start/Stop” button
Press the “Start/Stop” button to start or stop sewing. The
machine stitches at a slow speed at the beginning of sewing
while the button is pressed. When sewing is stopped, the
needle is lowered in the fabric. For details, refer to “STARTING
TO SEW” on page B-31.
The button changes color according to the machine’s
operation mode.
2 Reverse stitch button
For straight, zigzag, and elastic zigzag stitch patterns that use
reverse stitches, the machine will sew reverse stitches at low
speed only while holding down the Reverse stitch button. The
stitches are sewn in the opposite position.
For other stitches, use this button to sew reinforcement
stitches at the beginning and end of sewing. Press and hold
this button, and the machine sews 3 stitches in the same spot
and stops automatically. (page B-35)
3 Reinforcement stitch button
Use this button to sew a single stitch repeatedly and tie-off.
For character/decorative stitches, press this button to end with
a full stitch instead of at a mid-point. The LED light beside this
button lights up while the machine is sewing a full motif, and
automatically turns off when the sewing is stopped. (page B-
35)
4 Needle position button
Press the needle position button to raise or lower the needle.
Pressing the button twice sews one stitch.
5 Thread cutter button
(Equipped on some models.)
Press the thread cutter button after sewing is stopped to cut
both the upper and the bobbin threads. For details, refer to
step
j under “Sewing a stitch” on page B-34.
6 Sewing speed controller
Slide the sewing speed controller to adjust the sewing speed.
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Green: The machine is ready to sew or is sewing.
Red: The machine can not sew.
Orange: The machine is winding the bobbin thread, or
the bobbin winder shaft is moved to the right
side.
CAUTION
• (Only on models with (Thread cutter
button))
Do not press (Thread cutter button) after
the threads have already been cut, otherwise
the needle may break, the threads may
become tangled or damage to the machine
may occur.
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Names of Machine Parts and Their Functions
GETTING READY
Basic operations B-5
B
Operation panel and operation keys
1 LCD (liquid crystal display)
Settings for the selected stitch and error messages for
incorrect operations appear in the LCD.
For details, refer to “LCD” on page B-11
2 Stitch length keys
Press to adjust the stitch length in the LCD.
3 Automatic thread cutting key
(Equipped on some models.)
Press to select the automatic thread cutting function.
4 Automatic reverse/reinforcement key
Press to use the automatic reverse/reinforcement stitching
function.
5 Initial needle position key
Press to select either “1 Straight stitch (Left)” or “3 Straight
stitch (Middle)” as the utility stitch that is automatically selected
when the machine is turned on.
6 Single/repeat sewing key
Press to choose single pattern or continuous patterns.
7 Needle position key
Press to select the needle stop position (the needle position for
when the machine is not being operated) to be up or down.
8 Width control key
Press to allow the stitch width to be adjusted using the sewing
speed controller. For details, refer to “Satin stitching using the
sewing speed controller” in the “Sewing” section.
9 Twin needle key
Press to use the twin needle. For details, refer to “Using the
twin needle” on page B-23.
0 Memory key
Press to save stitch pattern combinations to machine memory.
For details, refer to “Saving a pattern” in the “Decorative
sewing” section.
A OK key
Press to apply the selection, perform the operation or add a
stitch pattern.
B Numeric keys
Use these keys to quickly select one of the ten most often used
stitches. When selecting other stitches, use these keys to enter
the number of the desired stitch.
C Back key
Press this key to cancel the operation and return to the
previous screen.
In addition, pressing this key removes the last pattern added
when combining characters or decorative stitches.
D Character stitch key
Press to select a character stitch.
E Decorative stitch key
Press to select a decorative stitch.
F Utility stitch key
Press to select a utility stitch.
G Preset utility stitch/saved pattern key
Press to select the utility stitch assigned to a numeric key or to
retrieve a pattern that has been saved.
H Stitch width keys/Pattern check keys
Press to adjust the stitch width or to check stitch pattern
combinations in the LCD.
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Note
• The operation keys of this machine are
capacitive touch sensors. Operate the keys by
directly touching them with your finger.
The response of the keys varies according to the
user.
The pressure exerted on the keys does not affect
the response of the keys.
• Since the operation keys react differently
depending on the user, adjust the setting for the
input sensitivity. (page B-12)
• When using an electrostatic touch pen, make
sure that its point is 8 mm or more. Do not use a
touch pen with a thin point or a unique shape.
Names of Machine Parts and Their Functions
B-6
Using the flat bed attachment
Pull the top of the flat bed attachment to open the accessory
compartments.
The shape of the flat bed attachment differs depending on the
machine model.
A presser foot accessory tray is stored in the accessory
compartment of the flat bed attachment.
1 Storage space of the flat bed attachment
2 Presser foot accessory tray
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2
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Names of Machine Parts and Their Functions
GETTING READY
Basic operations B-7
B
Included accessories
Included accessories may differ from the table below depending on your model. For more details on included accessories and
their part codes of your machine, refer to the Quick Reference Guide.
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.
Zigzag foot “J” (on
machine)
Monogramming foot “N” Overcasting foot “G” Zipper foot “I” Blind stitch foot “R” Button fitting foot “M”
7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12.
Buttonhole foot “A”
Needle set
*1
Twin needle
*2
Bobbin (4)
(One is on machine.)
Seam ripper Cleaning brush
13. 14.
15. 16. 17.
Eyelet punch
Screwdriver
*3
Disc-shaped screwdriver Horizontal spool pin Spool cap (large)
18. 19. 20. 21. 22. 23.
Spool cap (medium) (2)
(One is on machine.)
Spool cap (small) Thread spool insert (mini
king thread spool)
Spool net Bobbin case
(on machine)
Foot controller
24. 25. 26.
Accessory bag Operation Manual Quick Reference Guide
*1
75/11 2 needles,
90/14 2 needles,
90/14 2 needles: Ball point needle (gold colored)
*2
2/11 needle
*3
Either of the two is included with this machine.
Note
• (For U.S.A. only) Foot controller: Model T
This foot controller can be used on the machine with product code 888-F00/F10. The product code is mentioned
on the machine rating plate.
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Names of Machine Parts and Their Functions
B-8
Optional accessories
The following are available as optional accessories to be purchased separately. Optional accessories differ depending on your
model. For more optional accessories and their part codes, refer to the Quick Reference Guide.
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.
Quilting foot Walking foot 1/4" quilting foot 1/4" quilting foot with guide Quilting guide Side cutter “S”
7. 8. 9. 10.
Roller foot Free motion open toe
quilting foot “O”
L-shaped screwdriver Straight stitch foot and
needle plate set
Memo
• To obtain optional accessories or parts, contact your authorized Brother dealer.
• All specifications are correct at the time of printing. Please be aware that some specifications may change without
notice.
• A variety of feet are available to enable different types of stitching and finishes. Visit your nearest authorized Brother
dealer for a complete listing of optional accessories available for your machine.
• Always use accessories recommended for this machine.
O
Turning the Machine On/Off
GETTING READY
Basic operations B-9
B
Turning the Machine On/Off
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.
• Make sure that the plugs on the power cord are firmly inserted into the electrical outlet and the power
cord receptacle on the machine. Otherwise, a fire or electric shock may result.
• Do not insert the plug on the power cord into an electrical outlet that is in poor condition.
• Turn the main power to OFF 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
• Use only the power cord included with this machine.
• Do not use extension cords or multi-plug adapters with any other appliances plugged into 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 the main power to OFF first. Always grasp the plug to remove
it from the electrical 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, or cause fire or electric shock. If the cord or plug is damaged, take the machine to your authorized
Brother 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.
• When leaving the machine unattended, either the main switch of the machine should be turned to OFF or
the plug must be removed from the electrical outlet.
• When servicing the machine or when removing covers, the machine must be unplugged.
•(For U.S.A. only)
This appliance has a polarized plug (one blade wider than the other). To reduce the risk of electrical
shock, this plug is intended to fit in a polarized electrical outlet only one way.
If the plug does not fit fully in the electrical outlet, reverse the plug. If it still does not fit, contact a
qualified electrician to install the proper electrical outlet. Do not modify the plug in any way.
Turning the Machine On/Off
B-10
Turning on the machine
a
Make sure that the machine is turned off (the main
power switch is set to “ ”), and then plug the power
cord into the power supply jack on the right side of the
machine.
b
Insert the plug of the power cord into a household
electrical outlet.
1 Power supply jack
2 Main power switch
c
Press the right side of the main power switch on the
right side of the machine to turn the machine on (set it
to “I”).
The light, LCD and the “Start/Stop” button light up
when the machine is turned on.
Turning off the machine
When you are finished using the machine, turn it off. In
addition, before transporting the machine to another location,
be sure to turn it off.
a
Make sure that the machine is not sewing.
b
Press the main power switch on the right side of the
machine in the direction of the “ ” symbol to turn
the machine off.
Memo
• When the machine is turned on, the needle and
the feed dogs will make a sound when they move;
this is not a malfunction.
• If the machine is turned off in the middle of sewing
in the “Sewing” function, the operation will not
resume after turning the power on again.
1
2
LCD
GETTING READY
Basic operations B-11
B
Viewing the LCD
When the power is turned on, the LCD comes on, and the following screen is displayed.
The screen is changed using the keys below the LCD.
LCD
■ Utility stitch screen ■ Character/Decorative stitch screen (refer to
the “Decorative sewing” section)
No. Display Item Name Explanation Page
1 Stitch category Shows the category of the currently selected stitch pattern.
: Preset utility stitch
: Utility stitch
: Decorative stitch
: Character stitch (Gothic font)
: Character stitch (Handwriting font)
: Character stitch (Outline)
: Character stitch (Japanese font)
B-31
2 Presser foot Shows presser foot to be used. B-29
3 Single/repeat sewing Shows single or continuous pattern sewing mode setting.
: Single sewing mode
: Repeat sewing mode
D-6
4 Reinforcement priority
Shows that reinforcement priority has been set to “ ”.
B-37
5 Width control Shows that the stitch width can be adjusted using the sewing speed controller. S-32
6 Needle position setting Shows single or twin needle mode setting, and the needle stop position.
: Single needle/down position
: Single needle/up position
: Twin needle/down position
: Twin needle/up position
B-5
7 Initial needle position Shows either “1 Straight stitch (Left)” or “3 Straight stitch (Middle)” as the utility
stitch that is automatically selected when the machine is turned on.
: Straight stitch (Left)
: Straight stitch (Middle)
B-5
8 - Stitch number Shows the number of the currently selected stitch pattern. B-42
9 Automatic thread cutting
(Equipped on some
models)
Shows automatic cutting for both the upper and the bobbin threads after sewing. B-40
0 Automatic reverse/
reinforcement stitching
Shows automatic reverse or reinforcement stitching after a stitch pattern is sewn. B-35
A Stitch length Shows the stitch length of the currently selected stitch pattern. B-38
B Stitch width Shows the stitch width of the currently selected stitch pattern. B-38
C - Total number Shows the total number of characters that are being combined. D-5
D - Position number Shows the position of the selected stitch number. D-5
8
2
1
B A 9
76543
0
8
2
1
D C
763
LCD
B-12
Adjusting input sensitivity for operation keys
You can adjust the sensitivity of the operation keys to five
levels. Display the settings screen to set desired level.
1 Operation keys
a
Turn off the machine.
b
While pressing (Reinforcement stitch button) on
the operation panel, turn on the sewing machine.
c
Press the “-” or “+” key to select “ ”.
d
Adjust the input sensitivity by pressing the “-” or “+”
key.
• The lower the setting, the less sensitive the keys will
be; the higher the setting, the more sensitive the keys
will be. The default setting is “3”.
e
Press any of the operation keys, other than the “-” or
“+” key to check the sensitivity. When the key
responds, “ ” blinks.
f
Turn off the machine, then turn it on again.
■ If the machine does not respond when an
operation key is pressed
Turn machine off, then hold down (Needle position
button) and turn on the machine to reset the settings. Turn
off the machine, and then adjust the settings again.
1
Note
• We recommend selecting the highest setting if
an electrostatic touch pen is being used.
Note
• Before turning off the machine, press any of the
keys, other than “-” or “+” key. Otherwise the
machine may not save the setting.
Winding/Installing the Bobbin
GETTING READY
Basic operations B-13
B
Winding the bobbin
This section describes how to wind thread onto a bobbin.
a
Open the top cover.
b
Place the bobbin on the bobbin winder shaft so that the
spring on the shaft fits into the notch in the bobbin
.
Press down on the bobbin until it snaps into place.
1 Notch
2 Bobbin winder shaft spring
c
Slide the bobbin winder in the direction of the arrow
until it snaps into place.
• The “Start/Stop” button lights up in orange.
Winding/Installing the Bobbin
CAUTION
• Only use the Bobbin (part code: SA156, SFB:
XA5539-151) designed specifically for this
machine. Use of any other bobbin may result
in injuries or damage to the machine.
• The included bobbin was designed specifically
for this machine.
If bobbins from other models are used, the
machine will not operate correctly. Use only
the included bobbin or bobbins of the same
type (part code: SA156, SFB: XA5539-151).
SA156 is Class15 type bobbin.
* Made of plastic
1 This model
2 Other models
3 11.5 mm (approx. 7/16 inch)
Memo
• When the foot controller is connected, bobbin
winding can be started and stopped with the foot
controller.
Memo
• The shape of the bobbin winder guide post will
differ depending on your model; however, this
should not affect the operating procedure.
This manual describes the procedure for models
with a key-shaped bobbin winder guide post.
1 Bobbin winder guide post (oval)
1 Bobbin winder guide post (key)
1
1
2
1
Winding/Installing the Bobbin
B-14
d
Remove the spool cap that is inserted onto the spool
pin.
1 Spool pin
2 Spool cap
e
Place the spool of thread for the bobbin onto the spool
pin.
Slide the spool onto the pin so that the spool is
horizontal and the thread unwinds to the front at the
bottom.
• If the spool is not positioned so that the thread
unwinds correctly, the thread may become tangled
around the spool pin.
f
Slide the spool cap onto the spool pin.
Slide the spool cap as far as possible to the right, as
shown, with the rounded side on the left.
CAUTION
• If the spool or the spool cap is not installed
correctly, the thread may become tangled
around the spool pin, causing the needle to
break.
• Three spool cap sizes are available, allowing
you to choose a spool cap that best fits the size
of spool being used. If the spool cap is too
small for the spool being used, the thread may
catch on the slit in the spool or the machine
may be damaged. When using mini king thread
spool, use the thread spool insert (mini king
thread spool).
For details on thread spool insert (mini king
thread spool), refer to “Memo” on page B-14.
1
2
Memo
• When using the spool as shown below, use the
small spool cap, and leave a small space between
the cap and the spool.
1 Spool cap (small)
2 Spool (cross-wound thread)
3 Space
• When using thread that winds off quickly, such as
transparent nylon thread or metallic thread, place
the spool net over the spool before placing the
spool of thread onto the spool pin.
If the spool net is too long, fold it to fit the size of
the spool.
1 Spool net
2 Spool
3 Spool cap
4 Spool pin
• If a spool of thread whose core is 12 mm (1/2
inch) in diameter and 75 mm (3 inches) high is
inserted onto the spool pin, use the thread spool
insert (mini king thread spool).
1 Thread spool insert (mini king thread spool)
2 12 mm (1/2 inch)
3 75 mm (3 inches)
a
c
b
2
1
4
3
Winding/Installing the Bobbin
GETTING READY
Basic operations B-15
B
g
While holding the thread near the spool with your right
hand, as shown, pull the thread with your left hand,
and then pass the thread behind the thread guide cover
and to the front.
1 Thread guide cover
h
Pass the thread under the thread guide plate, and then
pull it to the right.
1 Thread guide plate
i
Pass the thread under the hook on the thread guide,
and then wind it counterclockwise under the
pretension disk.
1 Thread guide
2 Pretension disk
3 Pull it in as far as possible
j
While holding the thread with your left hand, wind the
thread that was pulled out clockwise around the
bobbin five or six times with your right hand.
k
Pass the end of the thread through the guide slit in the
bobbin winder seat, and then pull the thread to the
right to cut it.
1 Guide slit in bobbin winder seat
(with built-in cutter)
l
Slide the sewing speed controller to the right.
1 Speed controller
Note
• Make sure that the thread passes under the
pretension disk.
1
1
1
2
3
Note
• Make sure that the thread between the spool and
the bobbin is pulled tight.
• Be sure to wind the thread clockwise around the
bobbin, otherwise the thread will become
wrapped around the bobbin winder shaft.
CAUTION
• Be sure to cut the thread as described. If the
bobbin is wound without cutting the thread
using the cutter built into the slit in the bobbin
winder seat, the thread may become tangled in
the bobbin or the needle may bend or break
when the bobbin thread starts to run out.
Note
• Bobbin winding speeds may vary depending on
type of thread being wound on bobbin.
1
1
Winding/Installing the Bobbin
B-16
m
Turn on the machine.
n
Press the “Start/Stop” button once to start winding the
bobbin.
When the foot controller is plugged in, press down on
the foot controller.
1 “Start/Stop” button
o
When the bobbin winding becomes slow, press the
“Start/Stop” button once to stop the machine.
When the foot controller is plugged in, remove your
foot from the foot controller.
p
Use scissors to cut the end of the thread wound around
the bobbin.
q
Slide the bobbin winder shaft to the left, and then
remove the bobbin from the shaft.
r
Slide the sewing speed controller back to desired
sewing speed position.
s
Remove the spool for the bobbin thread from the spool
pin.
Installing the bobbin
Install the bobbin wound with thread.
You can begin sewing immediately without pulling up the
bobbin thread by simply inserting the bobbin in the bobbin
case and guiding the thread through the slit in the needle
plate cover.
Note
• When winding transparent nylon thread on the
bobbin, stop bobbin winding when the bobbin is
1/2 to 2/3 full.
If the bobbin is fully wound with transparent
nylon thread, the pressure may create fractures
to the plastic bobbin. This will lead to irregular
stitches or possible breakage to bobbin.
CAUTION
• When the bobbin winding becomes slow, stop
the machine, otherwise the machine may be
damaged.
1
Memo
• If the bobbin winder shaft is set to the right side,
the needle will not move. (Sewing is impossible.)
Memo
• When the machine is started or the handwheel is
turned after winding the bobbin, the machine will
make a clicking sound; this is not a malfunction.
Memo
• For details on sewing after pulling up the bobbin
thread, for example, when making gathers or with
free motion quilting, refer to “Pulling up the
bobbin thread” on page B-23.
CAUTION
• Use a bobbin that has been correctly wound
with thread, otherwise the needle may break
or the thread tension will be incorrect.
• Before inserting or changing the bobbin, be
sure to turn off the machine, otherwise injuries
may occur if the “Start/Stop” button or any
other button is pressed and the machine starts
operating.
Winding/Installing the Bobbin
GETTING READY
Basic operations B-17
B
a
Press (Needle position button) once or twice to
raise the needle.
b
Turn off the machine.
c
Raise the presser foot lever.
d
Slide the bobbin cover latch to the right.
1 Bobbin cover
2 Latch
e
Remove the bobbin cover.
f
Hold the bobbin with your right hand with the thread
unwinding to the left, and hold the end of the thread
with your left hand. Then, with your right hand, place
the bobbin in the bobbin case.
g
Lightly hold down the bobbin with your right hand
(1), and then guide the end of the thread around the
tab of the needle plate cover with your left hand (2).
1 Tab
h
While lightly holding down the bobbin with your right
hand (1), guide the thread through the slit in the
needle plate cover (2) and lightly pull it with your left
hand (3).
• The thread enters the tension spring of the bobbin
case.
i
While lightly holding down the bobbin with your right
hand (1), continue guiding the thread through the slit
with your left hand (2) Then, cut the thread with the
cutter (3).
CAUTION
• Be sure to hold down the bobbin with your
finger and unwind the bobbin thread
correctly, otherwise the thread may break or
the thread tension will be incorrect.
2
1
Memo
• The order that the bobbin thread should be
passed through the bobbin case is indicated by
marks around the bobbin case. Be sure to thread
the machine as indicated.
Winding/Installing the Bobbin
B-18
j
Reattach the bobbin cover.
Insert the tab of the bobbin cover into the notch of the
needle plate cover, and then lightly press down on the
right side.
The bobbin threading is finished.
Next, thread the upper thread. Continue with the
procedure in “Upper Threading” on page B-19.
Note
• If the thread is not correctly inserted through the
tension-adjusting spring of the bobbin case, it
may cause incorrect thread tension.
1 Tension-adjusting spring
Memo
• You can begin sewing without pulling up the
bobbin thread. If you wish to pull up the bobbin
thread before starting to sew, pull up the thread
according to the procedure in “Pulling up the
bobbin thread” on page B-23.
1
Upper Threading
GETTING READY
Basic operations B-19
B
Threading the upper thread
When threading the upper thread, carefully follow the
instructions.
a
Turn on the machine.
b
Raise the presser foot lever to raise the presser foot.
1 Presser foot lever
The upper thread shutter opens so the machine can
be threaded.
1 Shutter
c
Press (Needle position button) once or twice to
raise the needle.
1 Needle position button
The needle is correctly raised when the mark on the
handwheel is at the top, as shown below. Check the
handwheel and, if this mark is not at this position, press
(Needle position button) until it is.
1 Mark on handwheel
d
Turn off the machine.
Upper Threading
CAUTION
• Three spool cap sizes are available, allowing
you to choose a spool cap that best fits the size
of spool being used. If the spool cap is too
small for the spool being used, the thread may
catch on the slit in the spool or the needle may
break. When using mini king thread spool, use
the thread spool insert (mini king thread
spool). For more information regarding the
choice of spool caps for your thread choice,
see page B-14.
• When threading the upper thread, carefully
follow the instructions. If the upper threading
is not correct, the thread may become tangled
or the needle may bend or break.
• Never use a thread weight of 20 or lower.
• Use the needle and the thread in the correct
combination. For details on the correct
combination of needles and threads, refer to
“Fabric/Thread/Needle Combinations” on
page B-26.
Note
• If the presser foot is not raised, the machine
cannot be threaded.
1
a
1
1
Upper Threading
B-20
e
Remove the spool cap that is inserted onto the spool
pin.
1 Spool pin
2 Spool cap
f
Place the spool of thread onto the spool pin.
Slide the spool onto the pin so that the spool is
horizontal and the thread unwinds to the front at the
bottom.
g
Slide the spool cap onto the spool pin.
Slide the spool cap as far as possible to the right, as
shown, with the rounded side on the left.
h
While holding the thread lightly with your right hand,
pull the thread with your left hand, and then pass the
thread behind the thread guide cover and to the front.
1 Thread guide cover
i
While holding the thread lightly with your right hand,
pass the thread under the thread guide plate, and then
pull it up.
1 Thread guide plate
j
Pass the thread through the thread channel in the order
shown below.
1 Shutter
CAUTION
• If the spool or the spool cap is not positioned
correctly, the thread may become tangled
around the spool pin or the needle may break.
1
2
1
Note
• If the presser foot has been lowered and the
shutter is closed, the machine cannot be
threaded. Be sure to raise the presser foot to
open the shutter before threading the machine.
In addition, before removing the upper thread, be
sure to raise the presser foot to open the shutter.
• This machine is equipped with a window that
allows you to check the position of the take-up
lever. Look through this window and check that
the thread is correctly fed through the take-up
lever.
a
Upper Threading
GETTING READY
Basic operations B-21
B
k
Slide the thread behind the needle bar thread guide.
The thread can easily be slid behind the needle bar
thread guide by holding the thread in your left hand,
then feeding the thread with your right hand, as shown.
Make sure that the thread is passed through to the left of
the tab of the needle bar thread guide.
1 Needle bar thread guide
2 Tab
Threading the needle
a
Pull the end of the thread, which has been passed
through the needle bar thread guide, to the left, then
pass the thread through the notch of the threader
thread guide a, and then firmly pull the thread from
the front and insert it into the slit of the threader
thread guide disk marked “7” all the way b.
• Make sure that the thread passes through the notch of
the threader thread guide.
1 Notch of the threader thread guide
2 Threader thread guide disk
b
Cut the thread with the thread cutter on the left side of
the machine.
1 Cutter
c
Lower the presser foot lever to lower the presser foot.
1 Presser foot lever
Memo
• The needle threader can be used with machine
needles 75/11 through 100/16.
• The needle threader cannot be used with the wing
needle or the twin needle.
• When thread such as transparent nylon
monofilament or specialty threads are used it is
not recommended to use the needle threader.
• If the needle threader cannot be used, refer to
“Threading the needle manually (without using the
needle threader)” on page B-22.
1
2
2
1
a
b
Note
• If the thread is pulled through and cannot be cut
correctly, lower the presser foot lever so that the
thread is held in place before cutting the thread.
If this operation is performed, skip step
c.
• When using thread that quickly winds off the
spool, such as metallic thread, it may be difficult
to thread the needle if the thread is cut.
Therefore, instead of using the thread cutter, pull
out about 8 cm (approx. 3 inches) of thread after
passing it through the threader thread guide
disks (marked “7”).
1 8 cm (approx. 3 inches) or more
1
a
1
1
Upper Threading
B-22
d
Lower the needle threader lever on the left side of the
machine until it clicks, and then slowly return the lever
to its original position.
1 Hook
2 Needle threader lever
The hook is rotated and passes the thread through the
eye of the needle.
e
Carefully pull the end of thread that was passed
through the eye of the needle.
If the needle was not completely threaded, but a loop in
the thread was formed in the eye of the needle, carefully
pull the loop through the eye of the needle to pull out
the end of the thread.
f
Raise the presser foot lever, pass the end of the thread
through and under the presser foot, and then pull out
about 5 cm (approx. 2 inches) of thread toward the
rear of the machine.
1 5 cm (approx. 2 inches)
Threading the needle manually (without
using the needle threader)
When using specialty thread, such as transparent nylon
thread, a wing needle or a twin needle which cannot be used
with the needle threader, thread the needle as described
below.
a
Thread the machine until you reach the eye of the
needle.
• For details, refer to “Threading the upper thread” on
page B-19.
b
Lower the presser foot lever.
1 Presser foot lever
c
Insert the thread through the eye of the needle from
front to back.
d
Raise the presser foot lever, pass the end of the thread
through and under the presser foot, and then pull out
about 5 cm (approx. 2 inches) of thread toward the
rear of the machine.
Note
• If the needle is not raised to its highest position,
the needle threader cannot thread the needle.
Turn the handwheel counterclockwise until the
needle is at its highest position. The needle is
correctly raised when the mark on the handwheel
is at the top, as shown under step
c on
page B-19.
CAUTION
• When pulling out the thread, do not pull it
with extreme force, otherwise the needle may
break or bend.
1
CAUTION
• Make sure you turn the power off while
threading the needle manually. Otherwise
injuries may occur if the “Start/Stop” button
or any other button is pressed and the machine
starts operating.
1
Upper Threading
GETTING READY
Basic operations B-23
B
Pulling up the bobbin thread
When making gathers or before free motion quilting, first pull
up the bobbin thread as described below.
a
Refer to “Threading the upper thread” (page B-19) to
thread the machine with the upper thread and thread
the needle.
b
Follow steps d to f “Installing the bobbin” (page B-
16) for installing the bobbin to insert the bobbin into
the bobbin case.
c
Pass the bobbin thread through the slot.
Do not cut the thread with the cutter.
d
While lightly holding the upper thread with your left
hand, press (Needle position button) twice to
lower and then raise the needle.
The bobbin thread is looped around the upper thread
and can be pulled up.
e
Carefully pull the upper thread upward to pull out the
end of the bobbin thread.
f
Pull up the bobbin thread, pass it under the presser
foot and pull it about 10 cm (4 inches) toward the back
of the machine, making it even with the upper thread.
g
Reattach the bobbin cover.
Insert the tab of the bobbin cover into the notch of the
needle plate cover, and then lightly press down on the
right side.
Using the twin needle
With the twin needle, you can sew two parallel lines of the
same stitch with two different threads. Both upper threads
should have the same thickness and quality. Be sure to use the
twin needle, the horizontal spool pin and the appropriate
spool cap.
For details on the stitches that can be sewn with the twin
needle, refer to “Stitch Setting Chart” beginning on page B-42.
a
Install the twin needle.
• For details on installing a needle, refer to “Replacing
the needle” on page B-27.
b
Thread the upper thread for the left needle eye.
• For details, refer to steps
a through k of
“Threading the upper thread” on page B-19.
Memo
• Traditionally a twin needle is also used for creating
pin tucks. Contact your nearest authorized
Brother dealer to obtain the optional pin tuck foot
for your machine (SA194, F069: XF5832-001).
CAUTION
• Only use the twin needle (2/11 needle, part
code: X59296-121). 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 injuries.
• The needle threader cannot be used with the
twin needle. If the needle threader is used with
the twin needle, the machine may be
damaged.
Upper Threading
B-24
c
Manually thread the left needle with the upper thread.
Pass the thread through the eye of the needle from the
front.
d
Insert the horizontal spool pin onto the bobbin winder
shaft.
Insert the horizontal spool pin so that it is perpendicular
to the bobbin winder shaft.
1 Bobbin winder shaft
e
Swing the spool pin toward the left so that it is
horizontal.
f
Place the upper thread spool for the needle on the right
side onto the horizontal spool pin, and then secure it
with the spool cap.
The thread should unwind from the front at the bottom
of the spool.
1 Spool cap
2 Spool
g
Thread the upper thread in the same way that the
upper thread for the left side was threaded.
1 Thread guide cover
• For details, refer to steps h through j of
“Threading the upper thread” on page B-19.
h
Without passing the thread through the needle bar
thread guide, manually thread the right needle.
Insert the thread through the eye of the needle from the
front to the back.
• The needle threader cannot be used with the twin
needle. If the needle threader is used with the twin
needle, the machine may be damaged.
i
Attach zigzag foot “J”.
• For details on changing the presser foot, refer to
“Replacing the presser foot” on page B-29.
j
Turn on the machine and select a stitch.
• For stitch selection see “Selecting a stitch pattern” on
page B-32.
• See “Stitch Setting Chart” on page B-42 for stitches
that use a twin needle.
1
12
CAUTION
• When using the twin needle, be sure to attach
zigzag foot “J”. If bunched stitches occur, use
monogramming foot “N” or attach stabilizer
material.
CAUTION
• When using the twin needle, be sure to select
an appropriate stitch, otherwise the needle
may break or the machine may be damaged.
1
Upper Threading
GETTING READY
Basic operations B-25
B
k
Press to turn on the twin needle mode.
Make sure that appears on the LCD.
l
Start sewing.
• For details on starting to sew, refer to “STARTING TO
SEW” on page B-31.
Two lines of stitching are sewn parallel to each other.
CAUTION
• When using the twin needle, be sure to select
the twin needle setting, otherwise the needle
may break or the machine may be damaged.
Note
• When changing the sewing direction, press
(Needle position button) to raise the needle from
the fabric, and then raise the presser foot lever
and turn the fabric.
CAUTION
• Do not try turning the fabric while the twin
needle is down in the fabric, otherwise the
needle may break or the machine may be
damaged.
Fabric/Thread/Needle Combinations
B-26
• Needles that can be used with this machine: Home sewing machine needles (size 65/9 - 100/16)
* The larger the number, the larger the needle. As the numbers decrease, the needles get finer.
• Thread that can be used with this machine: 30 - 90 weight
* Never use thread of 20 weight or lower. It may cause machine to malfunction.
* The smaller the number, the heavier the thread. As the numbers increase, the thread gets finer.
• The machine needle and thread that should be used depends on the type and thickness of the fabric. Refer to
the following table when choosing the thread and needle appropriate for the fabric that you wish to sew.
- The combinations shown in the table provide a general guideline. Be sure to sew trial stitches on the actual number of
layers and type of fabric to be used in your project.
- The machine needles are consumables. For safety and best results, we recommend replacing the needle regularly. For
details on when to replace the needle, refer to “Checking the needle” on page B-27.
• In principle, use a fine needle and thread with lightweight fabrics, and a larger needle and heavier thread with
heavyweight fabrics.
• Select a stitch appropriate for the fabric, and then adjust the stitch length. When sewing lightweight fabrics,
make the stitch length finer (shorter). When sewing heavyweight fabrics, make the stitch length coarser
(longer). (page B-38)
When sewing stretch fabrics, refer to “Sewing stretch fabrics” in the “Sewing” section.
■ Transparent nylon thread
Use a home sewing machine topstitching needle, regardless of the fabric.
Fabric/Thread/Needle Combinations
Fabric Type/Application
Thread
Size of needle
Stitch length
[mm (inch)]
Type Weight
Lightweight
fabrics
Lawn, georgette, challis, organdy,
crepe, chiffon, voile, gauze, tulle,
lining, etc.
Polyester
thread
60 - 90
65/9 - 75/11
Fine stitches
1.8-2.5
(1/16-3/32)
Cotton thread,
Silk thread
50 - 80
Medium weight
fabrics
Broadcloth, taffeta, gabardine,
flannel, seersucker, double gauze,
linen, terry cloth, waffle weave,
sheeting, poplin, cotton twill, satin,
quilting cotton, etc.
Polyester
thread
60 - 90
75/11 - 90/14
Regular stitches
2.0-3.0
(1/16-1/8)
Cotton thread,
Silk thread
50 - 60
Heavyweight
fabrics
Denim (12 ounces or more), canvas,
etc.
Polyester
thread,
Cotton thread
30 100/16
Coarse stitches
2.5-4.0
(3/32-3/16)
Denim (12 ounces or more), canvas,
tweed, corduroy, velour, melton
wool, vinyl-coated fabric, etc.
Polyester
thread
60
90/14 - 100/16
Cotton thread,
Silk thread
30 - 50
Stretch fabrics
(knit fabrics, etc.)
Jersey, tricot, T-shirt fabric, fleece,
interlock, etc.
Cotton thread,
Polyester thread,
Silk thread
50
Ball point needle
75/11 - 90/14
Setting appropriate for
the fabric thickness
For top-stitching
Polyester thread,
Cotton thread
30 90/14 - 100/16
Setting appropriate for
the fabric thickness
50 - 60 75/11 - 90/14
CAUTION
• The appropriate fabric, thread and needle combinations are shown in the preceding table. If the
combination of the fabric, thread and needle is not correct, particularly when sewing heavy 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.
Replacing the Needle
GETTING READY
Basic operations B-27
B
Be sure to observe the following precautions concerning the
handling of the needle. Failure to observe these precautions is
extremely dangerous, for example, if the needle breaks and
fragments are dispersed. Be sure to read and carefully follow
the instructions below.
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 Flat side
2 Needle type marking
Replacing the needle
Use the screwdriver and a needle that has been determined to
be straight according to the instructions in “Checking the
needle”.
a
Press (Needle position button) once or twice to
raise the needle.
b
Turn off the machine.
c
Place fabric or paper under the presser foot to cover
the hole in the needle plate.
d
Lower the presser foot.
Replacing the Needle
CAUTION
• Only use recommended 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 injuries.
CAUTION
• If the distance between the needle and the flat
surface is not even, the needle is bent. Do not
use a bent needle.
1 Flat surface
1
2
1
1
Note
• Replace the needle in cases such as the four
described below:
1 If an unusual sound is produced when the needle
enters the fabric while sewing trial stitches at low
speed. (The tip of the needle may be broken.)
2 If stitches are skipped. (The needle may be bent.)
3 After completing one project, such as a piece of
clothing.
4 After using three full bobbins of thread.
CAUTION
• Before replacing the needle, be sure to turn off
the machine, otherwise injuries may occur if
the “Start/Stop” button or any other button is
pressed and the machine starts operating.
Note
• Before replacing the needle, cover the hole in the
needle plate with fabric or paper to prevent the
needle from falling into the machine.
Replacing the Needle
B-28
e
Hold the needle with your left hand, and then use a
screwdriver to turn the needle clamp screw toward
you (counterclockwise) to remove the needle.
• The needle clamp screw can also be loosened or
tightened with the disc-shaped (or L-shaped)
screwdriver.
1 Screwdriver
2 Needle clamp screw
• Do not apply a strong force when loosening or
tightening the needle clamp screw, otherwise certain
parts of the machine may be damaged.
f
With the flat side of the needle toward the rear of the
machine, insert the needle until it touches the needle
stopper.
1 Needle stopper
g
While holding the needle with your left hand, use the
screwdriver to tighten the needle clamp screw.
Turn the screw toward the back of the machine
(clockwise).
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.
2
1
1
Replacing the Presser Foot
GETTING READY
Basic operations B-29
B
Replacing the presser foot
a
Press (Needle position button) once or twice to
raise the needle.
b
Turn off the machine.
c
Raise the presser foot lever, if necessary.
d
Press the black button at the back of the presser foot
holder.
1 Black button
2 Presser foot holder
e
Place a different presser foot below the holder so that
the presser foot pin is aligned with the notch in the
holder.
1 Presser foot holder
2 Notch
3 Pin
4 Presser foot type
f
Slowly lower the presser foot lever so that the presser
foot pin snaps into the notch in the presser foot holder.
1 Presser foot lever
2 Presser foot holder
3 Notch
4 Pin
The presser foot is attached.
g
Raise the presser foot lever to check that the presser
foot is securely attached.
1 Presser foot lever
Replacing the Presser Foot
CAUTION
• Use the presser foot appropriate for the type
of stitch that you wish to sew, otherwise the
needle may hit the presser foot, causing the
needle to bend or break.
• Only use presser feet designed specifically for
this machine. Use of any other presser foot
may result in injuries or damage to the
machine.
CAUTION
• Before replacing the presser foot, be sure to
turn off the machine, otherwise injuries may
occur if the “Start/Stop” button or any other
button is pressed and the machine starts
operating.
a
b
1
2
3
4
J
2
3
4
1
1
Replacing the Presser Foot
B-30
Removing and attaching the presser foot
holder
Remove the presser foot holder when cleaning the machine or
when installing a presser foot that does not use the presser
foot holder, such as the walking foot and quilting foot. Use
the screwdriver to remove the presser foot holder.
a
Turn off the machine.
b
Remove the presser foot.
• For details, refer to “Replacing the presser foot” on
page B-29.
c
Use the screwdriver to loosen the presser foot holder
screw.
Turn the screw toward the back of the machine
(counterclockwise).
• The presser foot holder screw can also be loosened
or tightened with the disc-shaped (or L-shaped)
screwdriver.
1 Screwdriver
2 Presser foot holder
3 Presser foot holder screw
■ Attaching the presser foot holder
a
Turn off the machine.
b
Raise the presser foot lever.
c
Align the presser foot holder with the lower-left side of
the presser bar.
d
Hold the presser foot holder in place with your right
hand, and then tighten the screw using the screwdriver
in your left hand.
Turn the screw toward you (clockwise).
1 Screwdriver
Note
• When a stitch is selected, the icon for the presser
foot that should be used appears in the screen.
Check that the correct presser foot is attached
before starting to sew. If the wrong presser foot
is installed, turn off the machine, attach the
correct presser foot, turn machine back on and
then select the desired stitch again.
Zigzag foot “J”
Monogramming foot “N”
Overcasting foot “G”
Buttonhole foot “A”
Blind stitch foot “R”
Button fitting foot “M”
Side cutter “S”
• For details on the presser foot that should be
used with the selected stitch, refer to “Stitch
Setting Chart” on page B-42.
13
2
CAUTION
• Be sure to securely tighten the presser foot
holder screw, otherwise the presser foot
holder may fall off and the needle may strike
it, causing the needle to bend or break.
Note
• If the presser foot holder is not correctly
installed, the thread tension will be incorrect.
1
Sewing
Basic operations B-31
STARTING TO SEW
B
Stitch selection methods
A stitch can be selected from the following methods available.
Stitch patterns can be selected through either direct select (by
pressing the designated key for a specific stitch) or number
selection (by entering the number for the stitch pattern).
For details on the types of stitches available, refer to the Quick
Reference Guide.
■ Direct selection
With direct selection, there are two stitch modes listed
below. Each press of switches the modes.
Preset utility stitch
Saved patterns
1 Preset utility stitch/saved pattern key
2 Numeric keys
■ Number selection
After pressing (Utility stitch key), (Decorative
stitch key) or (Character stitch key) to select the stitch
mode, use the numeric keys to type in the number for the
desired stitch.
1 Utility stitch key
2 Decorative stitch key
3 Character stitch key
4 Numeric keys
Utility stitches
There are various utility stitches, including straight
stitches, overcasting stitches and buttonhole stitches.
Decorative stitches
There is one decorative stitch mode.
For details, refer to “Selecting stitch patterns” in the
“Decorative sewing” section.
Chapter 2
STARTING TO SEW
Sewing
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.
The most frequently used utility stitches have been
assigned to the numeric keys.
These stitches can be selected simply by pressing
the designated key.
For details, refer to “Preset utility stitches” on
page B-46.
Frequently used patterns and combined patterns can
be saved in the machine’s memory and easily
retrieved using (Preset utility stitch/saved
pattern key). For details, refer to “Saving a pattern”
and “Retrieving a pattern” in the “Decorative sewing”
section.
1
2
1
4
2
3
Sewing
B-32
Character stitches
There are four character stitch modes:
, Gothic font mode
, Handwriting font mode
, Outline font mode
, Japanese font mode
For details, refer to “Selecting stitch patterns” in the
“Decorative sewing” section.
Selecting a stitch pattern
■ When selecting a utility stitch
a
Press .
is displayed on the LCD screen.
b
Enter the number of the desired stitch using numeric
keys, and then press .
• For number of each stitch, refer to “Stitch Setting
Chart” on page B-42 or the Quick Reference Guide.
• Depending on the stitch number, the stitch may be
selected without pressing .
• When using one-digit numbers and it is entered
incorrectly, press to erase the entered number.
The selected stitch number is displayed on the LCD
screen.
■ When selecting from the preset utility stitches
Since various stitches have been assigned to the numeric
keys, these stitches can be selected simply by pressing the
designated numeric key.
a
Check that appears on the screen.
If a different icon is displayed, press .
b
Press the numeric key on which the desired stitch is
printed.
■ When selecting a character/decorative stitch
After pressing or on the operation panel the
necessary number of times, enter a number.
For more details, refer to “Selecting stitch patterns” in the
“Decorative sewing” section.
Sewing
Basic operations B-33
STARTING TO SEW
B
Sewing a stitch
a
Turn the main power to ON and press (Needle
position button) to raise the needle.
b
Select the desired stitch following the procedure
described in “Selecting a stitch pattern” on page B-32.
c
If necessary, specify the setting for automatic reverse/
reinforcement stitching and adjust the stitch length,
etc.
• For details on adjusting the stitch width and length,
refer to “Setting the stitch width” on page B-38 and
“Setting the stitch length” on page B-38.
d
Install the presser foot.
• For details on changing the presser foot, refer to
“Replacing the Presser Foot” on page B-29.
e
Set the fabric under the presser foot. Hold the fabric
and thread with your left hand, and rotate the
handwheel counterclockwise or press (Needle
position button) to set the needle in the sewing start
position.
f
Lower the presser foot.
You do not have to pull up the bobbin thread.
g
Adjust the sewing speed with the sewing speed
controller.
You can use this controller to adjust sewing speed
during sewing.
1 Fast
2 Slow
h
Press the “Start/Stop” button to start sewing.
Guide the fabric lightly by hand.
i
Press the “Start/Stop” button again to stop sewing.
Note
• When a stitch is selected, the icon for the
presser foot that should be used appears on the
screen. Check that the correct presser foot is
attached before starting to sew. If the wrong
presser foot is installed, turn off the machine,
attach the correct presser foot, turn machine
back on and then select the desired stitch again.
CAUTION
• Always use the correct presser foot. If the
wrong presser foot is used, the needle may
strike the presser foot and bend or break,
possibly resulting in injury.
Refer to page B-42 for presser foot
recommendations.
Memo
• The black button on the left side of zigzag foot
“J” should be pressed only if the fabric does not
feed or when sewing over thick seams. For
details, refer to “Sewing thick fabrics” in the
“Sewing” section. Normally, you can sew without
pressing the black button.
Memo
• When the foot controller is being used, you
cannot start sewing by pressing the “Start/Stop”
button.
b
a
Sewing
B-34
j
Trim the upper and lower threads.
■ When using the thread cutter
When using the thread cutter on the left side of the
machine or scissors to cut the threads, press (Needle
position button) to raise the needle, raise the presser foot,
and then pull out the fabric before cutting the threads.
■ When the thread cutter button is used (only on
models with a thread cutter button)
Press .
1 Thread cutter button
The needle will return to the up position
automatically.
k
When the needle has stopped moving, raise the presser
foot and remove the fabric.
■ Using the foot controller
You can also use the foot controller to start and stop
sewing.
a
Turn off the machine.
b
Insert the foot controller plug into its jack on the
machine.
1 Foot controller jack
c
Turn on the machine.
d
Slowly depress the foot controller to start sewing.
e
Release the foot controller to stop the machine.
CAUTION
• Do not press (Thread cutter button) after
the threads have been cut. Doing so could
tangle the thread or break the needle and
damage the machine.
• Do not press (Thread cutter button) when
there is no fabric set in the machine or during
machine operation. The thread may tangle,
possibly resulting in damage.
1
Note
• When cutting thread such as nylon monofilament
thread, or other decorative threads, use the
thread cutter on the side of the machine.
CAUTION
• Do not allow fabric pieces and dust to collect
in the foot controller. Doing so could cause a
fire or an electric shock.
Memo
• When the foot controller is being used, you
cannot start sewing by pressing the “Start/Stop”
button.
• Bobbin winding can be started and stopped with
the foot controller.
Memo
• The speed that is set using the sewing speed
controller will be the foot controller’s maximum
sewing speed.
1
Sewing
Basic operations B-35
STARTING TO SEW
B
Sewing reinforcement stitches
Reverse/reinforcement stitches are generally necessary at the
beginning and end of sewing. You can use (Reverse stitch
button) to sew reverse/reinforcement stitches (Refer to “Stitch
Setting Chart” under the column for “Reverse button” on
page B-42.).
While pressing
(Reinforcement stitch button), the machine
will sew 3 to 5 reinforcement stitches at that point and then
stop.
1 Reverse stitch button
2 Reinforcement stitch button
If the automatic reinforcement stitch is selected, reverse
stitches (or reinforcement stitches) will be sewn automatically
at the beginning of sewing when the “Start/Stop” button is
pressed. Press (Reverse stitch button) or
(Reinforcement stitch button) to sew reverse stitches or
reinforcement stitches automatically at the end of sewing.
1 Reverse stitch
2 Reinforcement stitch
The operation performed when the button is pressed differs
depending on the selected pattern. Refer to the table in
“Automatic reinforcement stitching” on page B-35.
Automatic reinforcement stitching
After selecting a stitch motif, turn on the automatic
reinforcement stitching function before sewing, and the
machine will automatically sew reinforcement stitches (or
reverse stitches, depending on the stitch motif) at the
beginning and end of sewing. Refer to the table on page B-36.
a
Select a stitch pattern.
b
Press to set the automatic reinforcement stitching
function.
appears on the LCD.
c
Set the fabric in the start position and begin sewing.
1 Reverse stitches (or reinforcement stitches)
The machine will automatically sew reverse stitches
(or reinforcement stitches) and then continue sewing.
Memo
• While pressing (Reinforcement stitch button)
when sewing character/decorative stitch pattern,
you can end sewing with a completed motif
instead of at the midpoint of a stitch motif.
• The green light on the left of (Reinforcement
stitch button) lights up while the machine is
sewing a full motif, and it automatically turns off
when the sewing is stopped.
1 2
Memo
• Some stitches, such as buttonholes and bar
tacks, require reinforcement stitches at the
beginning of sewing. If you select one of these
stitches, the machine will automatically turn on
this function ( appears on the LCD when the
stitch is selected).
Memo
• When selecting the stitches below, the machine
will automatically sew reverse stitches at the
beginning of the stitch.
• If you press the “Start/Stop” button to pause
sewing, press it again to continue. The machine
will not sew reverse/reinforcement stitches again.
Sewing
B-36
d
Press (Reverse stitch button) or (Reinforcement
stitch button).
1 Reverse stitches (or reinforcement stitches)
The machine will sew reverse stitches (or
reinforcement stitches) and stop.
The operation performed when the button is pressed differs
depending on the selected pattern. Refer to the following table
for details on the operation that is performed when the button
is pressed.
* If (Reinforcement priority) in the settings screen
is turned on, reinforcement stitches are sewn instead
of reverse stitches. Refer to “Reinforcement priority”
on page B-37.
Memo
• To turn off the automatic reinforcement stitching
function, press so that in the LCD screen
is no longer displayed.
Reverse stitch
button
Reinforcement
stitch button
When the automatic
reinforcement
stitching function is
not active while
selecting stitches
such as examples
shown below:
Machine starts
sewing the stitches
and only sews
reverse stitches
while holding the
Reverse stitch
button.
Machine sews 3 - 5
reinforcement
stitches while
holding the
Reinforcement stitch
button.
When the automatic
reinforcement
stitching function is
active while selecting
stitches such as
examples shown
below:
Machine sews
reverse stitches at
the beginning and
end of sewing.
Machine sews
reverse stitches at
the beginning and
reinforcement
stitches at the end of
sewing.
When the automatic
reinforcement
stitching function is
not active while
selecting stitches
such as examples
shown below:
Machine starts
sewing the stitches
and only sews
reverse stitches
while holding the
Reverse stitch
button.
*
Machine starts
sewing the stitches
and sews 3 - 5
reinforcement
stitches while
holding the
Reinforcement stitch
button.
When the automatic
reinforcement
stitching function is
active while selecting
stitches such as
examples shown
below:
Machine sews
reinforcement
stitches at the
beginning and
reverse stitches at
the end of sewing.
*
Machine sews
reinforcement
stitches at the
beginning and end of
sewing.
When the automatic
reinforcement
stitching function is
not active while
selecting utility
stitches other than
the straight or zigzag
stitches.
Machine sews 3 - 5
reinforcement
stitches while
holding the Reverse
stitch button.
Machine sews 3 - 5
reinforcement
stitches while
holding the
Reinforcement stitch
button.
When the automatic
reinforcement
stitching function is
active while selecting
utility stitches other
than the straight or
zigzag stitches.
Machine sews
reinforcement
stitches at the
beginning and end of
sewing.
Machine sews
reinforcement
stitches at the
beginning and end of
sewing.
When the automatic
reinforcement
stitching function is
not active while
selecting character/
decorative stitches.
Machine starts
sewing and then
sews reinforcement
stitches while
holding the Reverse
stitch button.
Machine starts
sewing at the
beginning, then
completes the
pattern when the
Reinforcement stitch
button is pressed
and sews
reinforcement
stitches at the end of
sewing.
When the automatic
reinforcement
stitching function is
active while selecting
character/decorative
stitches.
Machine sews
reinforcement
stitches at the
beginning and sews
reinforcement
stitches when the
Reverse stitch
button is pressed.
Machine sews
reinforcement
stitches at the
beginning, then
completes the
pattern when the
Reinforcement stitch
button is pressed
and sews
reinforcement
stitches at the end of
sewing.
Reverse stitch
button
Reinforcement
stitch button
Sewing
Basic operations B-37
STARTING TO SEW
B
Reinforcement priority
When set to “ ”within the settings screen,
reinforcement stitches are sewn at the beginning and/or end of
sewing reinforcement stitch patterns, even if (Reverse
stitch button) has been pressed. For details, refer to
“Automatic reinforcement stitching” on page B-35.
a
Turn off the machine.
b
While pressing (Reinforcement stitch button) on
the operation panel, turn on the sewing machine.
c
Press the “-” or “+” key to select “ ”.
d
Press the “-” or “+” key to set to “ ”.
e
Turn off the machine, then turn it on again.
Setting the Stitch
B-38
This machine is preset with the default settings for the
stitch width and stitch length for each stitch.
However, you can change their settings or adjust them by
following the procedure described in this section.
Setting the stitch width
The stitch width (zigzag width) can be adjusted to make the
stitch wider or narrower.
Each press of “-” makes the zigzag stitch narrower.
Each press of
“+” makes the zigzag stitch wider.
Setting the stitch length
The stitch length can be adjusted to make the stitch coarser
(longer) or finer (shorter).
Each press of “-” makes the stitch length finer (shorter).
Each press of “+” makes the stitch length coarser (longer).
Setting the Stitch
Memo
• If the straight stitch or triple stretch stitch was
selected, changing the stitch width changes the
needle position. Increasing the width moves the
needle to the right; reducing the width moves the
needle to the left.
• When the stitch width is changed from the
standard setting, around disappears.
When the stitch width is reset back to the
standard setting, reappears around .
• means the setting cannot be adjusted.
CAUTION
• After adjusting the stitch width, 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.
Memo
• When the stitch length is changed from the
standard setting, around disappears. When
the stitch length is reset back to the standard
setting, reappears around .
• means the setting cannot be adjusted.
Setting the Stitch
Basic operations B-39
STARTING TO SEW
B
Setting the thread tension
You may need to change the thread tension, depending on the
fabric and thread being used.
■ Correct thread tension
The upper thread and the bobbin thread should cross near
the center of the fabric. Only the upper thread should be
visible from the right side of the fabric, and only the
bobbin thread should be visible from the wrong side of the
fabric.
1 Wrong side of fabric
2 Right side of fabric
3 Upper thread
4 Bobbin thread
■ Upper thread is too tight
If the bobbin thread is visible from the right side of the
fabric, the upper thread is too tight.
Loosen the thread tension.
1 Wrong side of fabric
2 Right side of fabric
3 Upper thread
4 Bobbin thread
5 The bobbin thread is visible from the right side of the
fabric.
Pushing the thread tension dial toward the left makes the
thread tension looser.
■ Upper thread is too loose
If the upper thread is visible from the wrong side of the
fabric, the upper thread is too loose.
Tighten the thread tension.
1 Wrong side of fabric
2 Right side of fabric
3 Upper thread
4 Bobbin thread
5 The upper thread is visible from the wrong side of the
fabric.
Pushing the thread tension dial toward the right makes the
thread tension tighter.
Note
• If the bobbin thread was incorrectly threaded, the
upper thread may be too tight. In this case, refer
to “Installing the bobbin” on page B-16 and
rethread the bobbin thread.
1
2
3
4
1
2
3
4
5
Note
• If the upper thread was incorrectly threaded, the
upper thread may be too loose. In this case, refer
to “Upper Threading” on page B-19 and rethread
the upper thread.
Note
• If the upper thread is not threaded correctly or
the bobbin is not installed correctly, it may not
be possible to set the correct thread tension. If
the correct thread tension cannot be achieved,
rethread the upper thread and insert the bobbin
correctly.
5
1
2
3
4
Useful Functions
B-40
Automatically cutting the thread (Only on
models with automatic thread cutting key)
The machine can be set to automatically cut the threads at the
end of the stitching. This is called “programmed thread
cutting”. If programmed thread cutting is set, automatic
reverse/reinforcement stitching is also set.
a
Turn on the machine.
b
Select a stitch.
• For details on selecting a stitch, refer to “Selecting a
stitch pattern” on page B-32.
c
Press .
and appear in the LCD, and the machine is
set for programmed thread cutting and automatic
reverse/reinforcement stitching.
• To turn programmed thread cutting off, press .
d
Set the fabric in place, and press the “Start/Stop”
button once.
Stitching will begin after reverse stitches or
reinforcement stitches are sewn.
e
Once you have reached the end of the stitching, press
(Reverse stitch button) or (Reinforcement stitch
button) once.
If stitching, such as buttonholes and bar tacking, that
includes reinforcement stitching has been selected, this
operation is unnecessary.
After the reverse stitching or reinforcement stitching
has been done, the machine stops, and the thread is
cut.
1 The point where the “Start/Stop” button was pressed.
2 The point where (Reverse stitch button) or
(Reinforcement stitch button) was pressed.
3 The thread is cut here.
Useful Functions
Memo
• Programmed thread cutting will not be performed
if the “Start/Stop” button is pressed while sewing.
Press (Reverse stitch button) or
(Reinforcement stitch button) at the end of the
stitching.
• If the power is turned off, programmed thread
cutting will be turned off.
32
1
Useful Functions
Basic operations B-41
STARTING TO SEW
B
Adjusting the presser foot pressure
You can adjust the presser foot pressure (the amount of
pressure applied to the fabric by the presser foot) with the
presser foot pressure dial.
a
Lower the presser foot lever to lower the presser foot.
1 Presser foot lever
b
Turn the presser foot pressure dial at the back of the
machine to adjust the pressure of the presser foot.
The presser foot pressure can be set to one of four levels
(between 1 and 4). The higher the number, the greater
the pressure will be.
c
When you are finished sewing, reset the dial to 3
(standard).
1
Stitch Setting Chart
B-42
Applications, stitch lengths and widths and whether the twin needle can be used are listed for utility stitches in the
following table.
*1
Patterns printed on the numeric keys on the machine can be selected directly. For details, refer to “Preset utility stitches” on
page B-46.
*2
For free motion quilting, use free motion open toe quilting foot “O” (sold separately with some models).
*3
When automatic reverse/reinforcement stitching has been set, the stitch will begin with reinforcement stitch.
If reinforcement priority has been set to “ ”, the machine will sew reinforcement stitches at the end of stitching and then
stop.
Stitch Setting Chart
Note
• The walking foot can only be used with straight or zigzag stitch patterns. Do not sew reverse stitches with the
walking foot.
Stitch Stitch name
Presser
foot
Applications
Stitch width
[mm (inch)]
Stitch length
[mm (inch)]
Twin
needle
Reverse
button
Stitch
number
Auto.
Manual
Auto.
Manual
01
*1
Straight stitch
(Left)
J
*2
General sewing, gather,
pintuck, etc.
0.0 (0)
0.0 - 7.0
(0 - 1/4)
2.5 (3/32)
0.2 - 5.0
(1/64 - 3/16)
OK
( J )
Reverse
02
*1
Straight stitch
(Left)
J
*2
General sewing, gather,
pintuck, etc.
0.0 (0)
0.0 - 7.0
(0 - 1/4)
2.5 (3/32)
0.2 - 5.0
(1/64 - 3/16)
OK
( J )
Reverse
*3
03
*1
Straight stitch
(Middle)
J
*2
General sewing, gather,
pintuck, etc.
3.5 (1/8)
0.0 - 7.0
(0 - 1/4)
2.5 (3/32)
0.2 - 5.0
(1/64 - 3/16)
OK
( J )
Reverse
04
*1
Straight stitch
(Middle)
J
*2
General sewing, gather,
pintuck, etc.
3.5 (1/8)
0.0 - 7.0
(0 - 1/4)
2.5 (3/32)
0.2 - 5.0
(1/64 - 3/16)
OK
( J )
Reverse
*3
05
*1
Triple stretch
stitch
J
*2
General sewing for
reinforcement and decorative
topstitching
0.0 (0)
0.0 - 7.0
(0 - 1/4)
2.5 (3/32)
0.4 - 5.0
(1/64 - 3/16)
OK
( J )
Reinforce-
ment
06
*1
Stem stitch
J
*2
Reinforced stitching, sewing
and decorative applications
1.0 (1/16)
0.0 - 7.0
(0 - 1/4)
2.5 (3/32)
0.4 - 5.0
(1/64 - 3/16)
OK
( J )
Reinforce-
ment
07
Basting stitch
J
*2
Basting 0.0 (0)
0.0 - 7.0
(0 - 1/4)
-NO
Reinforce-
ment
08
*1
Zigzag stitch
J
*2
For overcasting, mending. 3.5 (1/8)
0.0 - 7.0
(0 - 1/4)
1.4 (1/16)
0.0 - 5.0
(0 - 3/16)
OK
( J )
Reverse
09
*1
Zigzag stitch
J
*2
For overcasting, mending. 3.5 (1/8)
0.0 - 7.0
(0 - 1/4)
1.4 (1/16)
0.0 - 5.0
(0 - 3/16)
OK
( J )
Reverse
*3
10
Zigzag stitch
(Right)
J
*2
Start from right needle
position, zigzag sews to left.
3.5 (1/8)
2.5 - 5.0
(3/32 - 3/16)
1.4 (1/16)
0.3 - 5.0
(1/64 - 3/16)
OK
( J )
Reverse
*3
11
2 steps elastic
zigzag stitch
J
*2
Overcasting (medium weight
and stretch fabrics), tape and
elastic
5.0 (3/16)
0.0 - 7.0
(0 - 1/4)
1.0 (1/16)
0.2 - 5.0
(1/64 - 3/16)
OK
( J )
Reverse
*3
12
*1
3 steps elastic
zigzag stitch
J
*2
Overcasting (medium,
heavyweight and stretch
fabrics), tape and elastic
5.0 (3/16)
0.0 - 7.0
(0 - 1/4)
1.0 (1/16)
0.2 - 5.0
(1/64 - 3/16)
OK
( J )
Reverse
*3
13
*1
Overcasting
stitch G
Reinforcing of light and
medium weight fabrics
3.5 (1/8)
2.5 - 5.0
(3/32 - 3/16)
2.0 (1/16)
0.4 - 5.0
(1/64 - 3/16)
NO
Reinforce-
ment
14
Overcasting
stitch G
Reinforcing of heavyweight
fabric
5.0 (3/16)
2.5 - 5.0
(3/32 - 3/16)
2.5 (3/32)
0.4 - 5.0
(1/64 - 3/16)
NO
Reinforce-
ment
Stitch Setting Chart
Basic operations B-43
STARTING TO SEW
B
15
Overcasting
stitch G
Reinforcing of medium,
heavyweight and easily friable
fabrics or decorative stitching.
5.0 (3/16)
3.5 - 5.0
(1/8 - 3/16)
2.5 (3/32)
0.4 - 5.0
(1/64 - 3/16)
NO
Reinforce-
ment
16
Overcasting
stitch
J
*2
Reinforced seaming of stretch
fabric
5.0 (3/16)
0.0 - 7.0
(0 - 1/4)
2.5 (3/32)
0.4 - 5.0
(1/64 - 3/16)
OK
( J )
Reinforce-
ment
17
Overcasting
stitch
J
*2
Reinforcing of medium stretch
fabric and heavyweight fabric,
decorative stitching
5.0 (3/16)
0.0 - 7.0
(0 - 1/4)
2.5 (3/32)
0.4 - 5.0
(1/64 - 3/16)
OK
( J )
Reinforce-
ment
18
Overcasting
stitch
J
*2
Reinforcement of stretch
fabric or decorative stitching
4.0 (3/16)
0.0 - 7.0
(0 - 1/4)
4.0 (3/16)
0.4 - 5.0
(1/64 - 3/16)
OK
( J )
Reinforce-
ment
19
Overcasting
stitch
J
*2
Stretch knit seam 5.0 (3/16)
0.0 - 7.0
(0 - 1/4)
4.0 (3/16)
0.4 - 5.0
(1/64 - 3/16)
NO
Reinforce-
ment
20
With side cutter
S
Straight stitch while cutting
fabrics
0.0 (0)
0.0 - 2.5
(0 - 3/32)
2.5 (3/32)
0.2 - 5.0
(1/64 - 3/16)
NO
Reinforce-
ment
21
With side cutter
S
Zigzag stitch while cutting
fabrics
3.5 (1/8)
3.5 - 5.0
(1/8 - 3/16)
1.4 (1/16)
0.0 - 5.0
(0 - 3/16)
NO
Reinforce-
ment
22
With side cutter
S
Overcasting stitch while
cutting fabrics
3.5 (1/8)
3.5 - 5.0
(1/8 - 3/16)
2.0 (1/16)
0.4 - 5.0
(1/64 - 3/16)
NO
Reinforce-
ment
23
With side cutter
S
Overcasting stitch while
cutting fabrics
5.0 (3/16)
3.5 - 5.0
(1/8 - 3/16)
2.5 (3/32)
0.4 - 5.0
(1/64 - 3/16)
NO
Reinforce-
ment
24
With side cutter
S
Overcasting stitch while
cutting fabrics
5.0 (3/16)
3.5 - 5.0
(1/8 - 3/16)
2.5 (3/32)
0.4 - 5.0
(1/64 - 3/16)
NO
Reinforce-
ment
25
Piecing stitch
(Right)
J
*2
Piecework/patchwork 6.5 mm
(approx. 1/4 inch) right seam
allowance
5.5 (7/32)
0.0 - 7.0
(0 - 1/4)
2.0 (1/16)
0.2 - 5.0
(1/64 - 3/16)
NO
Reverse
*3
26
Piecing stitch
(Middle)
J
*2
Piecework/patchwork
—
2.0 (1/16)
0.2 - 5.0
(1/64 - 3/16)
NO
Reverse
*3
27
Hand-look
quilting stitch
J
*2
Quilting stitch made to look
like hand quilting when using
transparent nylon thread for
the upper thread and a thread
color matching the quilt for
the bobbin thread.
Sew with a tight thread
tension so that the bobbin
thread is visible from the right
side of the fabric.
Use a needle between 90/14
and 100/16.
0.0 (0)
0.0 - 7.0
(0 - 1/4)
2.5 (3/32)
0.4 - 5.0
(1/64 - 3/16)
NO
Reinforce-
ment
28
Quilting appliqué
zigzag stitch
J
*2
Zigzag stitch for quilting and
sewing on appliqué quilt
pieces
3.5 (1/8)
0.0 - 7.0
(0 - 1/4)
1.4 (1/16)
0.0 - 5.0
(0 - 3/16)
NO
Reverse
*3
29
Quilting appliqué
stitch
J
*2
Quilting stitch for invisible
appliqué or attaching binding
1.5 (1/16)
0.0 - 3.5
(0 - 1/8)
1.8 (1/16)
0.4 - 5.0
(1/64 - 3/16)
NO
Reinforce-
ment
30
Quilting stippling
stitch
J
*2
Background quilting 7.0 (1/4)
0.0 - 7.0
(0 - 1/4)
1.6 (1/16)
0.4 - 5.0
(1/64 - 3/16)
NO
Reinforce-
ment
31
Blind hem stitch
R
Hemming woven fabrics
00
-3 - 3
2.0 (1/16)
0.4 - 5.0
(1/64 - 3/16)
NO
Reinforce-
ment
32
Blind hem stretch
stitch R
Hemming stretch fabric
00
-3 - 3
2.0 (1/16)
0.4 - 5.0
(1/64 - 3/16)
NO
Reinforce-
ment
33
Blanket stitch
J
Appliqués, decorative blanket
stitch
3.5 (1/8)
0.0 - 7.0
(0 - 1/4)
2.5 (3/32)
0.4 - 5.0
(1/64 - 3/16)
OK
( J )
Reinforce-
ment
Stitch Stitch name
Presser
foot
Applications
Stitch width
[mm (inch)]
Stitch length
[mm (inch)]
Twin
needle
Reverse
button
Stitch
number
Auto.
Manual
Auto.
Manual
Stitch Setting Chart
B-44
34
Shell tuck edge
stitch
J
*2
Shell tuck edge finish on
fabrics
4.0 (3/16)
0.0 - 7.0
(0 - 1/4)
2.5 (3/32)
0.2 - 5.0
(1/64 - 3/16)
OK
( J )
Reinforce-
ment
35
Satin scallop
stitch
N
*2
Decorating collar of blouse,
edge of handkerchief
5.0 (3/16)
0.0 - 7.0
(0 - 1/4)
0.5 (1/32)
0.1 - 5.0
(1/64 - 3/16)
OK
( J )
Reinforce-
ment
36
Patchwork join
stitch
J
*2
Patchwork stitches,
decorative stitching
4.0 (3/16)
0.0 - 7.0
(0 - 1/4)
1.2 (1/16)
0.2 - 5.0
(1/64 - 3/16)
OK
( J )
Reinforce-
ment
37
Patchwork
double overlock
stitch
J
*2
Patchwork stitches,
decorative stitching
5.0 (3/16)
0.0 - 7.0
(0 - 1/4)
2.5 (3/32)
0.4 - 5.0
(1/64 - 3/16)
OK
( J )
Reinforce-
ment
38
Couching stitch
J
*2
Decorative stitching, attaching
cord and couching
5.0 (3/16)
0.0 - 7.0
(0 - 1/4)
1.2 (1/16)
0.2 - 5.0
(1/64 - 3/16)
OK
( J )
Reinforce-
ment
39
Smocking stitch
J
*2
Smocking, decorative
stitching
5.0 (3/16)
0.0 - 7.0
(0 - 1/4)
1.6 (1/16)
0.4 - 5.0
(1/64 - 3/16)
OK
( J )
Reinforce-
ment
40
Feather stitch
J
*2
Fagoting, decorative stitching 5.0 (3/16)
0.0 - 7.0
(0 - 1/4)
2.5 (3/32)
0.4 - 5.0
(1/64 - 3/16)
OK
( J )
Reinforce-
ment
41
Fagoting cross
stitch
J
*2
Fagoting, bridging and
decorative stitching
5.0 (3/16)
0.0 - 7.0
(0 - 1/4)
2.5 (3/32)
0.4 - 5.0
(1/64 - 3/16)
OK
( J )
Reinforce-
ment
42
Tape at ta ching
stitch
J
*2
Attaching tape to seam in
stretch fabric
4.0 (3/16)
0.0 - 7.0
(0 - 1/4)
1.0 (1/16)
0.2 - 5.0
(1/64 - 3/16)
OK
( J )
Reinforce-
ment
43
Ladder stitch
J
*2
Decorative stitching 4.0 (3/16)
0.0 - 7.0
(0 - 1/4)
3.0 (1/8)
0.4 - 5.0
(1/64 - 3/16)
NO
Reinforce-
ment
44
Rick-rack stitch
J
*2
Decorative top stitching 4.0 (3/16)
0.0 - 7.0
(0 - 1/4)
2.5 (3/32)
0.4 - 5.0
(1/64 - 3/16)
OK
( J )
Reinforce-
ment
45
Decorative stitch
J
*2
Decorative stitching 5.5 (7/32)
0.0 - 7.0
(0 - 1/4)
1.6 (1/16)
0.4 - 5.0
(1/64 - 3/16)
OK
( J )
Reinforce-
ment
46
Serpentine stitch
N
*2
Decorative stitching and
attaching elastic
5.0 (3/16)
0.0 - 7.0
(0 - 1/4)
1.0 (1/16)
0.2 - 5.0
(1/64 - 3/16)
OK
( J )
Reinforce-
ment
47
Hemstitching
zigzag
N
*2
Decorative hems, top
stitching
6.0 (15/64)
0.0 - 7.0
(0 - 1/4)
3.0 (1/8)
0.4 - 5.0
(1/64 - 3/16)
OK
( J )
Reinforce-
ment
48
Hemstitching
N
*2
Decorative hems, lace
attaching pin stitch
3.5 (1/8)
0.0 - 7.0
(0 - 1/4)
2.5 (3/32)
0.4 - 5.0
(1/64 - 3/16)
NO
Reinforce-
ment
49
Hemstitching
N
*2
Decorative hems 3.0 (1/8)
0.0 - 7.0
(0 - 1/4)
3.5 (1/8)
0.4 - 5.0
(1/64 - 3/16)
NO
Reinforce-
ment
50
Hemstitching
N
*2
Decorative hems daisy stitch 6.0 (15/64)
0.0 - 7.0
(0 - 1/4)
3.0 (1/8)
0.4 - 5.0
(1/64 - 3/16)
NO
Reinforce-
ment
51
Hemstitching
N
*2
Heirloom, decorative hems 5.0 (3/16)
0.0 - 7.0
(0 - 1/4)
3.5 (1/8)
0.4 - 5.0
(1/64 - 3/16)
NO
Reinforce-
ment
52
Hemstitching
N
*2
Heirloom, decorative hems 5.0 (3/16)
0.0 - 7.0
(0 - 1/4)
4.0 (3/16)
0.4 - 5.0
(1/64 - 3/16)
OK
( J )
Reinforce-
ment
53
Hemstitching
N
*2
Heirloom, decorative hems 6.0 (15/64)
0.0 - 7.0
(0 - 1/4)
1.6 (1/16)
0.4 - 5.0
(1/64 - 3/16)
OK
( J )
Reinforce-
ment
54
Hemstitching
N
*2
Heirloom, decorative hems 6.0 (15/64)
0.0 - 7.0
(0 - 1/4)
3.0 (1/8)
0.4 - 5.0
(1/64 - 3/16)
NO
Reinforce-
ment
Stitch Stitch name
Presser
foot
Applications
Stitch width
[mm (inch)]
Stitch length
[mm (inch)]
Twin
needle
Reverse
button
Stitch
number
Auto.
Manual
Auto.
Manual
Stitch Setting Chart
Basic operations B-45
STARTING TO SEW
B
55
Hemstitching
N
*2
Heirloom, decorative hems 4.0 (3/16)
0.0 - 7.0
(0 - 1/4)
2.5 (3/32)
0.4 - 5.0
(1/64 - 3/16)
NO
Reinforce-
ment
56
Hemstitching
N
*2
Heirloom, decorative hems 5.0 (3/16)
0.0 - 7.0
(0 - 1/4)
2.0 (1/16)
0.4 - 5.0
(1/64 - 3/16)
OK
( J )
Reinforce-
ment
57
Hemstitching
N
*2
Decorative hems and bridging
stitch
6.0 (15/64)
0.0 - 7.0
(0 - 1/4)
2.0 (1/16)
0.4 - 5.0
(1/64 - 3/16)
OK
( J )
Reinforce-
ment
58
Narrow rounded
buttonhole stitch A
Buttonhole on light to medium
weight fabrics
5.0 (3/16)
3.0 - 5.0
(1/8 - 3/16)
0.4 (1/64)
0.2 - 1.0
(1/64 - 1/16)
NO
Automatic
reinforce-
ment
59
Narrow squared
buttonhole stitch A
Buttonholes for light to
medium weight fabrics
5.0 (3/16)
3.0 - 5.0
(1/8 - 3/16)
0.4 (1/64)
0.2 - 1.0
(1/64 - 1/16)
NO
Automatic
reinforce-
ment
60
Stretch
buttonhole stitch A
Buttonholes for stretch or
woven fabrics
6.0 (15/64)
3.0 - 6.0
(1/8 - 15/64)
1.0 (1/16)
0.5 - 2.0
(1/32 - 1/16)
NO
Automatic
reinforce-
ment
61
Heirloom
buttonhole stitch A
Buttonholes for heirloom and
stretch fabrics
6.0 (15/64)
3.0 - 6.0
(1/8 - 15/64)
1.5 (1/16)
1.0 - 3.0
(1/16 - 1/8)
NO
Automatic
reinforce-
ment
62
Bound
buttonhole stitch A
The first step in making bound
buttonholes
5.0 (3/16)
0.0 - 6.0
(0 - 15/64)
2.0 (1/16)
0.2 - 4.0
(1/64 - 3/16)
NO
Automatic
reinforce-
ment
63
Keyhole
buttonhole stitch A
Buttonholes in heavyweight or
thick fabrics for larger flat
buttons
7.0 (1/4)
3.0 - 7.0
(1/8 - 1/4)
0.5 (1/32)
0.3 - 1.0
(1/64 - 1/16)
NO
Automatic
reinforce-
ment
64
Keyhole
buttonhole stitch A
Buttonholes with vertical bar
tack for reinforcement in
heavyweight or thick fabrics
7.0 (1/4)
3.0 - 7.0
(1/8 - 1/4)
0.5 (1/32)
0.3 - 1.0
(1/64 - 1/16)
NO
Automatic
reinforce-
ment
65
Darning stitch
A
Darning of medium weight
fabric
7.0 (1/4)
2.5 - 7.0
(3/32 - 1/4)
2.0 (1/16)
0.4 - 2.5
(1/64 - 3/32)
NO
Automatic
reinforce-
ment
66
Darning stitch
A
Darning of heavyweight fabric 7.0 (1/4)
2.5 - 7.0
(3/32 - 1/4)
2.0 (1/16)
0.4 - 2.5
(1/64 - 3/32)
NO
Automatic
reinforce-
ment
67
Bar tack stitch
A
Reinforcement at opening of
pocket, etc.
2.0 (1/16)
1.0 - 3.0
(1/16 - 1/8)
0.4 (1/64)
0.3 - 1.0
(1/64 - 1/16)
NO
Automatic
reinforce-
ment
68
Button sewing
stitch M
Attaching buttons 3.5 (1/8)
2.5 - 4.5
(3/32 - 3/16)
— NO
Reinforce-
ment
69
Eyelet stitch
N
For making eyelets, holes on
belts, etc.
7.0 (1/4)
7.0 6.0 5.0
(1/4 15/64
3/16)
7.0 (1/4)
7.0 6.0 5.0
(1/4 15/64
3/16)
NO
Automatic
reinforce-
ment
Stitch Stitch name
Presser
foot
Applications
Stitch width
[mm (inch)]
Stitch length
[mm (inch)]
Twin
needle
Reverse
button
Stitch
number
Auto.
Manual
Auto.
Manual
Stitch Setting Chart
B-46
■ Preset utility stitches
The most frequently used utility stitches have been
assigned to the numeric keys.
These stitches can be selected simply by pressing the
designated key while in the preset utility stitch mode.
Stitch name
Preset utility
stitches
Stitch number
Straight stitch (Left)
01
Straight stitch (Left)
02
Straight stitch (Middle)
03
Straight stitch (Middle)
04
Zigzag stitch
08
Zigzag stitch
09
Triple stretch stitch
05
Stem stitch
06
Overcasting stitch
13
3 steps elastic zigzag
stitch
12
Sewing
This section describes procedures for using the various utility stitches as well as other
functions. It provides details on basic sewing in addition to the more expressive features of
the machine, such as sewing tubular pieces and buttonholes.
Page number starts with “S” in this section.
Chapter1 SEWING ATTRACTIVE FINISHES......................... S-2
Chapter2 UTILITY STITCHES................................................... S-6
CAUTION
• Before replacing the presser foot, be sure to turn off the machine, otherwise injuries may
occur if the “Start/Stop” button or any other button is pressed and the machine starts
operating. For details on changing the presser foot, refer to “Replacing the Presser Foot” in
the “Basic operations” section.
Sewing Tips
S-2
Trial sewing
After you have set up the machine with the thread and needle
appropriate for the type of fabric being sewn, the machine
automatically sets the stitch length and width for the stitch
that is selected. However, 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
a
When the stitching reaches a corner, stop the machine.
Leave the needle lowered (in the fabric). If the needle
remains up when the machine stops sewing, press
(Needle position button) to lower the needle.
b
Raise the presser foot lever, and then turn the fabric.
Turn the fabric using the needle as a pivot.
c
Lower the presser foot lever and continue sewing.
Sewing curves
Sew slowly while slightly changing the sewing direction to
sew around the curve. For details on sewing with an even
seam allowance, refer to “Sewing an even seam allowance”
on page S-3.
When sewing along a curve while using a zigzag stitch, select
a shorter stitch length in order to obtain a finer stitch.
Sewing cylindrical pieces
Removing the flat bed attachment allows for free-arm sewing,
making it easier to sew cylindrical pieces such as sleeve cuffs
and pant legs.
a
Pull the flat bed attachment off to the left.
b
Slide the part that you wish to sew onto the free arm,
and then sew from the top.
Chapter 1
SEWING ATTRACTIVE
FINISHES
Sewing Tips
Sewing Tips
Sewing S-3
SEWING ATTRACTIVE FINISHES
S
c
When you are finished with free arm sewing, install the
flat bed attachment back in its original position.
Sewing an even seam allowance
To sew an even seam, start sewing so that the seam allowance
is to the right of the presser foot, and the edge of the fabric is
aligned with either the right edge of the presser foot or a
marking on the needle plate.
■ Aligning the fabric with the presser foot
Sew while keeping the right edge of the presser foot a
fixed distance from the edge of the fabric.
1 Seam
2 Presser foot
■ Aligning the fabric with the stitch guide foot
(sold separately with some models)
Sew while keeping the right edge of the fabric aligned
with a desired position of markings on the stitch guide
foot.
1 Seam
2 Stitch guide foot
3 Markings
■ Aligning the fabric with a needle plate marking
The markings on the needle plate show the distance from
the needle position of a seam sewn with the straight stitch
(left needle position). Sew while keeping the edge of the
fabric aligned with a marking on the needle plate. The
distance between the markings in the upper scale is
1/8 inch (3 mm) and the distance between the markings in
the grid is 5 mm (3/16 inch).
For stitches with a left needle position
(Stitch width: 0.0 mm)
1 Seam
2 Presser foot
3 Centimeters
4 Inches
5 Needle plate
6 1.6 cm (5/8 inch)
1
2
1
2
3
Sewing Various Fabrics
S-4
Sewing thick fabrics
■ If the fabric does not fit under the presser foot
The presser foot lever can be raised to two different
positions. If the fabric does not fit under the presser foot,
for example, when sewing together thick fabrics, raise the
presser foot lever to its highest position so that the fabric
can be placed under the presser foot.
■ If the fabric does not feed
When sewing thick fabric such as denim or quilting, the
fabric may not feed at the start of sewing if the presser foot
is not level, as shown below. In this case, use the presser
foot locking pin (black button on the left side) of zigzag
foot “J” so that the presser foot remains level while sewing,
allowing the fabric to be fed smoothly.
If the presser foot misalignment is too large, place thick
paper or fabric (with the same thickness as the fabric being
sewn) under the heel of the presser foot to be able to start
sewing smoothly.
1 Sewing direction
2 Misalignment
3 Fabric being sewn
4 Fabric or thick paper
a
Raise the presser foot lever.
b
Align the beginning of stitching, and then position the
fabric.
c
While holding zigzag foot “J” level, push in and hold
the presser foot locking pin (black button on the left
side), and lower the presser foot lever.
1 Presser foot locking pin (black button)
d
Release the presser foot locking pin (black button).
The presser foot remains level, allowing the fabric to
be fed.
After the seam is sewn, the presser foot will return to
its original angle.
Sewing thin fabrics
When sewing thin fabrics such as chiffon, the stitching may
become misaligned or the fabric may not feed correctly. Move
the needle (be sure to use a fine needle) to the furthest left or
right hand position so that the fabric does not get pulled down
into the feed dog area. If this occurs or there is shrinkage of
the stitching, place non-woven water-soluble stabilizer under
the fabric and sew them together. Using the straight stitch
needle plate* and straight stitch foot* is also effective when
sewing thin fabrics.
* Sold separately with some models.
1 Water-soluble stabilizer (non-woven)
Sewing Various Fabrics
b
a
dc
Memo
• You may find adjusting the presser foot pressure
dial helpful when sewing thick fabrics.
CAUTION
• If fabric more than 6 mm (15/64 inch) thick is
sewn or if the fabric is pushed with too much
force, the needle may bend or break.
1
1
Sewing Various Fabrics
Sewing S-5
SEWING ATTRACTIVE FINISHES
S
Sewing stretch fabrics
First, baste the pieces of fabric together, and then sew without
stretching the fabric. If the stitching is misaligned, place non-
woven water-soluble stabilizer under the fabric and sew them
together.
1 Basting
For best results when sewing on knit fabrics use the stretch
stitches. Also be sure to use a needle for knits (Ball point
needle (gold colored)). The recommended stitches and their
stitch numbers are indicated below.
* Stitch patterns can be selected directly by pressing the
numeric keys on the machine during preset utility stitch
mode. Refer to “Basic operations” section.
Sewing leathers or vinyl fabrics
When sewing fabrics that may stick to the presser foot, such as
leather or vinyl fabrics, replace the presser foot with the
walking foot*, non stick foot* or roller foot*.
* Sold separately with some models.
1 Leather
If the leather or vinyl fabric sticks to the flat bed attachment,
sew with copy paper or tracing paper placed on top of the flat
bed attachment so the fabric moves smoothly.
If the paper is positioned so that it does not cover the needle
plate, the paper will not be sewn together with the fabric.
1 Copy paper or tracing paper
Sewing hook-and-loop fastener tape
Make sure that the needle passes through the hook-and-loop
fastener tape by turning the handwheel and lower the needle
into the hook-and-loop fastener tape before sewing. And then,
sew the edge of the hook-and-loop fastener tape at a slow
speed.
If the needle does not pass through the hook-and-loop
fastener tape, replace the needle with the needle size for
thicker fabrics. For details, refer to “Fabric/Thread/Needle
Combinations” in the “Basic operations” section.
1 Edge of the hook-and-loop fastener tape
Stitch
05
* 06*
11
12
*
42
1
1
1
Note
• The walking foot can only be used with straight
or zigzag stitch patterns. Do not sew reverse
stitches with the walking foot.
When sewing with the walking foot, sew at a
speed between slow and medium.
• When using the walking foot, test sew on a scrap
piece of leather or vinyl that is to be used in
project to make sure foot does not leave any
marks.
CAUTION
• Use only the adhesive-free hook-and-loop
fastener tape which is designed for sewing.
When the glue adheres to the needle or the
bobbin hook race, it may cause malfunction.
• If the hook-and-loop fastener tape is sewn with
the thin needle (65/9-75/11), the needle may
bend or break.
Note
• Before sewing, baste together the fabric and the
hook-and-loop fastener tape.
Basic Stitching
S-6
Straight stitches are used for sewing plain seams.
* Stitch patterns can be selected directly by pressing the
numeric keys on the machine during preset utility stitch
mode. Refer to “Basic operations” section.
Basting
Sew basting with the preset stitch length of 5 mm (3/16 inch).
a
Attach zigzag foot “J”.
b
Select stitch
.
c
Start sewing.
Basic stitching
a
Baste or pin together the fabric pieces.
b
Attach zigzag foot “J”.
c
Select a stitch.
d
Lower the needle into the fabric at the beginning of the
stitching.
e
Lower the presser foot lever, and then start sewing.
f
When sewing is finished, cut the thread.
Chapter 2
UTILITY STITCHES
Basic Stitching
Stitch name Stitch
Presser foot
Stitch number
Basting stitch 07
J
Straight stitch (Left)
01
*
02*
Straight stitch (Middle)
03
*
Straight stitch (Middle)
04*
Triple stretch stitch
05
*
Memo
• If the basting threads fall out of the fabric, pull up
the bobbin thread before sewing, and then pull
the upper thread and bobbin thread under the
presser foot toward the back of the machine (refer
to “Pulling up the bobbin thread” in the “Basic
operations” section). Hold the upper thread and
bobbin thread when beginning to sew, and when
finished sewing, cut the threads leaving an excess
amount of thread.
Finally, hold the upper thread and bobbin thread
at the beginning of the stitching while arranging
the fabric.
J
J
Basic Stitching
Sewing S-7
UTILITY STITCHES
S
■ Changing the needle position
The needle position used as the baseline is different for the
straight stitch (left needle position) and the straight stitch
(center needle position).
1 Straight stitch (left needle position)
2 Straight stitch (center needle position)
When the stitch width of the straight stitch (left needle
position) is set to its standard setting (0.0 mm), the
distance from the needle position to the right side of the
presser foot is 12 mm (1/2 inch). If the stitch width is
changed (between 0 and 7.0 mm (1/4 inch)), the needle
position will also change. By changing the stitch width
and sewing with the right side of the presser foot aligned
with the edge of the fabric, a seam allowance can be sewn
with a fixed width.
1 Stitch width setting
2 Distance from the needle position to the right side of the
presser foot
3 12.0 mm (1/2 inch)
4 10.0 mm (3/8 inch)
5 6.5 mm (1/4 inch)
6 5.0 mm (3/16 inch)
• For details, refer to “Setting the stitch width” in the
“Basic operations” section.
12
0.0 2.0 5.5 7.0
34 5
6
1
2
Blind Hem Stitching
S-8
Secure the bottoms of skirts and pants with a blind hem.
a
Turn the skirt or pants wrong side out.
1 Wrong side of fabric
2 Right side of fabric
3 Edge of fabric
4 Bottom side
b
Fold the fabric along the desired edge of the hem, and
press.
c
Use a chalk to mark on the fabric about 5 mm (3/16
inch) from the edge of the fabric, and then baste it.
d
Fold back the fabric inside along the basting.
e
Unfold the edge of fabric, and position the fabric with
the wrong side facing up.
f
Attach blind stitch foot “R”.
g
Select or .
h
Remove the flat bed attachment to use the free arm.
Blind Hem Stitching
Stitch name Stitch
Presser foot
Stitch number
Blind hem stitch 31
R
Blind hem stretch
stitch
32
Memo
• When the size of cylindrical pieces is too small to
slide onto the arm or the length is too short, the
fabric will not feed and desired results may not be
achieved.
1 Wrong side of fabric
2 Right side of Fabric
3 Edge of fabric
4 Desired edge of hem
<Thick fabric>
<Normal fabric>
<Seen from the side>
2
1
3
1
2
1
2
1
3
3
4
2
1 Wrong side of fabric
2 Right side of fabric
3 Edge of fabric
4 Desired edge of hem
5 5 mm (3/16 inch)
6 Basting
<Thick fabric>
<Normal fabric>
<Seen from the side>
1 Wrong side of fabric
2 Right side of fabric
3 Edge of fabric
4 Desired edge of hem
5 5 mm (3/16 inch)
6 Basting
7 Basting point
<Thick fabric>
<Normal fabric>
<Seen from the side>
1 Wrong side of fabric
2 Right side of fabric
3 Edge of fabric
4 Desired edge of hem
5 Basting point
6 Basting
<Thick fabric>
<Normal fabric>
<Seen from the side>
1
2
1
2
3
5
6
4
1
2
1
3
6
5
1
1
2
7
4
5
1
1
1
1
1
2
6
3
4
Blind Hem Stitching
Sewing S-9
UTILITY STITCHES
S
i
Slide the item that you wish to sew onto the free arm,
make sure that the fabric feeds correctly, and then start
sewing.
1 Free arm
j
Position the fabric with the edge of the folded hem
against the guide of the presser foot, and then lower
the presser foot lever.
1 Wrong side of fabric
2 Fold of hem
3 Guide
k
Adjust the stitch width until the needle slightly catches
the fold of the hem.
1 Needle drop point
When you change the needle drop point, raise the
needle, and then change the stitch width.
1 Thick fabric
2 Normal fabric
■ If the needle catches too much of the hem fold
The needle is too far to the left.
Decrease the stitch width so that the needle slightly
catches the fold of the hem.
Example: Thick fabric
Example: Normal fabric
1 Wrong side of fabric
2 Right side of fabric
Memo
• Blind hem stitches cannot be sewn if the left
needle drop point does not catch the fold. If the
needle catches too much of the fold, the fabric
cannot be unfolded and the seam appearing on
the right side of the fabric will be very large,
leaving an unattractive finish. If you experience
either of these cases, perform the following
instructions to solve the problem.
1
2
Blind Hem Stitching
S-10
■ If the needle does not catch the hem fold
The needle is too far to the right.
Increase the stitch width so that the needle slightly catches
the fold of the hem.
Example: Thick fabric
Example: Normal fabric
1 Wrong side of fabric
2 Right side of fabric
l
Sew with the fold of the hem against the presser foot
guide.
m
Press the “Start/Stop” button to stop sewing when you
are finished, and raise the presser foot and needle to
remove the fabric by pulling it back.
n
Remove the basting stitching and reverse the fabric.
1 Wrong side of fabric
2 Right side of fabric
Note
• Be sure to pull the fabric backward after finished
sewing. If you pull the fabric toward side or
forward, the presser foot may be damaged.
1
2
Overcasting Stitches
Sewing S-11
UTILITY STITCHES
S
Sew overcasting stitches along the edges of cut fabric to
prevent them from fraying.
Sewing overcasting stitches using
overcasting foot “G”
* Stitch patterns can be selected directly by pressing the
numeric keys on the machine during preset utility stitch
mode. Refer to “Basic operations” section.
a
Attach overcasting foot “G”.
b
Select a stitch.
c
Position the fabric with the edge of the fabric against
the guide of the presser foot, and then lower the
presser foot lever.
1 Guide
d
Sew with the edge of the fabric against the presser foot
guide.
1 Needle drop point
e
Press the “Start/Stop” button to stop sewing when you
are finished, and raise the presser foot and needle to
remove the fabric by pulling it back.
Overcasting Stitches
Stitch name Stitch
Presser foot
Stitch number
Overcasting stitch
13
*
G14
15
G
a
1
CAUTION
• After the stitch width is adjusted, rotate the
handwheel toward you (counterclockwise).
Check that the needle does not touch the
presser foot. If the needle hits the presser foot,
the needle may break and cause injury.
1 The needle should not touch the center bar
• If the presser foot is raised to its highest level,
the needle may strike the presser foot.
Overcasting Stitches
S-12
Sewing overcasting stitches using zigzag foot
“J”
* Stitch patterns can be selected directly by pressing the
numeric keys on the machine during preset utility stitch
mode. Refer to “Basic operations” section.
a
Attach zigzag foot “J”.
b
Select a stitch.
c
Sew along the edge of the fabric with the needle
dropping off the edge at the right.
1 Needle drop point
1 Needle drop point
Sewing overcasting stitches using the side
cutter (sold separately with some models)
Using the side cutter, seam allowances can be finished
while the edge of the fabric is cut off. Five utility stitches
can be used to sew overcasting stitches with the side
cutter.
Side cutter
a
Remove the presser foot.
b
Hook the connecting fork of the side cutter onto the
needle clamp screw.
1 Connecting fork
2 Needle clamp screw
Stitch name Stitch
Presser foot
Stitch number
Zigzag stitch
08
*
J
Zigzag stitch (Right) 10
2 steps elastic zigzag
stitch
11
3 steps elastic zigzag
stitch
12
*
Overcasting stitch
16
17
18
19
J
a
1
Note
• Thread the needle manually when using the side
cutter, or only attach the side cutter after
threading the needle using the needle threader.
Stitch name Stitch
Presser foot
Stitch number
With side cutter
20
S
21
22
23
24
b
a
Overcasting Stitches
Sewing S-13
UTILITY STITCHES
S
c
Position the side cutter so that side cutter pin is aligned
with the notch in the presser foot holder, and then
slowly lower the presser foot lever.
1 Notch in presser foot holder
2 Pin
d
Raise the presser foot lever to check that the side
cutter is securely attached.
e
Pass the upper thread under the side cutter, and then
pull it out toward the rear of the machine.
f
Select a stitch.
g
Make a cut of about 2 cm (3/4 inch) long in the fabric
at the beginning of the stitching.
1 2 cm (3/4 inch)
h
Position the fabric so that the right side of the cut is on
top of the guide plate and the left side of the cut is
underneath the presser foot.
1 Guide plate
• If the fabric is not positioned correctly, the fabric will
not be cut.
• If the fabric is not feeding properly, gently guide
fabric under foot the same as with regular sewing
feet.
i
Lower the presser foot lever, and then start sewing.
A seam allowance is cut while the stitching is sewn.
• If the stitching is sewn in a straight line , the seam
allowance will be about 5 mm (3/16 inch).
1 5 mm (3/16 inch)
Note
• When it is hard to set under the presser foot
holder, fit the pin on the side cutter into the notch
of the presser foot holder raising up the presser
foot lever higher.
b
a
1
Memo
• The side cutter can cut as much as one layer of
13-oz. denim.
• After using the side cutter, clean it by removing
any lint or dust.
• If the side cutter can no longer cut fabric, use a
piece of cloth to apply a small amount of oil to the
cutting edge of the cutter.
a
1
Buttonhole Stitching/Button Sewing
S-14
Buttonhole sewing
The maximum buttonhole length is about 28 mm (1-1/8
inches) (diameter + thickness of the button).
Buttonholes are sewn from the front of the presser foot to the
back, as shown below.
1 Reinforcement stitching
The names of parts of buttonhole foot “A”, which is used to
create buttonholes, are indicated below.
1 Button guide plate
2 Presser foot scale
3 Pin
4 Marks on buttonhole foot
5 5 mm (3/16 inch)
Buttonhole Stitching/Button Sewing
Stitch name Stitch
Presser foot
Stitch number
Narrow rounded
buttonhole stitch
58
A
Narrow squared
buttonhole stitch
59
Stretch buttonhole
stitch
60
Heirloom buttonhole
stitch
61
Bound buttonhole
stitch
62
Keyhole buttonhole
stitch
63
Keyhole buttonhole
stitch
64
Button sewing stitch 68 M
5
2
1
3
4
A
Buttonhole Stitching/Button Sewing
Sewing S-15
UTILITY STITCHES
S
a
Use chalk to mark on the fabric the position and length
of the buttonhole.
1 Marks on fabric
2 Buttonhole sewing
b
Pull out the button guide plate of buttonhole foot “A”,
and then insert the button that will be put through the
buttonhole.
■ If the button does not fit in the button guide
plate
Add together the diameter and thickness of the button,
and then set the button guide plate to the calculated
length. (The distance between the markings on the presser
foot scale is 5 mm (3/16 inch).)
1 Presser foot scale
2 Length of buttonhole (diameter + thickness of button)
3 5 mm (3/16 inch)
Example: For a button with a diameter of
15 mm (9/16 inch) and a thickness of 10 mm (3/8 inch),
the button guide plate should be set to 25 mm (1 inch) on
the scale.
1 10 mm (3/8 inch)
2 15 mm (9/16 inch)
The size of the buttonhole is set.
c
Attach buttonhole foot “A”.
Position the upper thread under the presser foot by
guiding thread through the hole in the presser foot
before attaching the buttonhole foot “A”.
d
Select a stitch.
e
Position the fabric with the front end of the buttonhole
mark aligned with the red marks on the sides of the
buttonhole foot, and then lower the presser foot lever.
1 Mark on fabric (front)
2 Red marks on buttonhole foot
3 Upper thread
• When lowering the presser foot, do not push in the
front of the presser foot.
1 Do not reduce the gap.
b
a
3
2
1
2
1
Memo
• If there is difficulty in aligning the marks, slowly
turn the handwheel toward you to check where
the needle will enter the fabric, and then align the
mark on the fabric with that point.
A
1
2
3
a
Buttonhole Stitching/Button Sewing
S-16
f
Pull down the buttonhole lever as far as possible.
1 Buttonhole lever
The buttonhole lever is positioned behind the bracket
on the buttonhole foot.
1 Buttonhole lever
2 Bracket
g
Gently hold the end of the upper thread in your left
hand, and then start sewing.
Once sewing is completed, the machine
automatically sews reinforcement stitches, then
stops.
h
Cut the thread.
■ When using the cutter on the left side of the
machine
Cut the threads with the thread cutter by pulling fabric and
threads toward the back of the machine; then up and over
to the left side of the machine, placing threads on the top
of the thread cutter and gently pulling down. The threads
will then cut.
■ When the thread cutter button is used (only on
models with a thread cutter button)
Press once.
Raise the presser foot, and then remove the fabric.
i
Raise the buttonhole lever to its original position.
j
Insert a pin along the inside of one bar tack at the end
of the buttonhole stitching to prevent the stitching
from being cut.
1 Pin
k
Use the seam ripper to cut towards the pin and open
the buttonhole.
1 Seam ripper
For keyhole buttonholes, use the eyelet punch to make
a hole in the rounded end of the buttonhole, and then
use the seam ripper to cut open the buttonhole.
1 Eyelet punch
• When using the eyelet punch, place thick paper or
some other protective sheet under the fabric before
punching the hole in the fabric.
Memo
• When using the thread cutter on the left side of
the machine or scissors to cut the threads, press
(Needle position button) to raise the needle,
raise the presser foot, and then pull out the fabric
before cutting the threads.
a
2
1
Memo
• If the automatic thread cutting setting was
selected before sewing, the machine will
automatically cut the threads at the end of the
stitching. For details, refer to “Automatically
cutting the thread” in the “Basic operations”
section.
CAUTION
• When opening the buttonhole with the seam
ripper, do not place your hands in the cutting
direction, otherwise injuries may result if the
seam ripper slips.
• Do not use the seam ripper in any other way
than how it is intended.
1
1
1
Buttonhole Stitching/Button Sewing
Sewing S-17
UTILITY STITCHES
S
■ Changing the density of the stitching
Adjust the stitch length.
• For details, refer to “Setting the stitch length” in the
“Basic operations” section.
• If the fabric does not feed (for example, if it is too
thick), decrease the density of the stitching.
■ Changing the stitch width
Adjust the stitch width.
• For details, refer to “Setting the stitch width” in the
“Basic operations” section.
■ Sewing buttonholes on stretch fabrics
When sewing buttonholes on stretch fabrics, use a gimp
thread.
a
Hook the gimp thread onto the part of buttonhole foot
“A” shown in the illustration.
b
It fits into the grooves, and then loosely tie it.
c
Attach buttonhole foot “A”.
d
Select stitch or .
e
Adjust the stitch width to the thickness of the gimp
thread.
f
Lower the presser foot lever and the buttonhole lever,
and then start sewing.
g
When sewing is finished, gently pull the gimp thread to
remove any slack.
h
Use a handsewing needle to pull the gimp thread to the
wrong side of the fabric, and then tie it.
Button sewing
Buttons can be sewn on with the machine. Buttons with two
or with four holes can be attached.
a
Measure the distance between the holes in the button
to be attached.
b
Raise the presser foot lever, and then slide the feed dog
position switch, located at the rear of the machine on
the base, to (to the left as seen from the rear of
the machine).
1 Feed dog position switch (as seen from the rear of the
machine)
c
Attach button fitting foot “M”.
Memo
• Before sewing buttonholes, check the stitch
length and width by sewing a trial buttonhole on a
scrap piece of fabric.
a
Buttonhole Stitching/Button Sewing
S-18
d
Select stitch .
• (Only on models with (Automatic thread
cutting key))
Since the end of the thread will be tied off later, do
not set the machine for programmed thread cutting.
e
Adjust the stitch width so that it is the same as the
distance between the holes in the button.
f
Place the button in the position where it will be sewn,
and lower the presser foot lever.
1 Button
• 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 machine, and then sew them in the same way.
g
Turn the handwheel toward you (counterclockwise) to
check that the needle correctly goes into the two holes
of the button.
If it seems as if the needle will hit the button, remeasure
the distance between the holes in the button. Adjust the
stitch width to the distance between the buttonholes.
h
Start sewing.
Set the sewing speed controller to the left (so that the
speed will be slow).
The machine automatically stops after sewing
reinforcement stitches.
• (Only on models with (Thread cutter button))
Do not press .
i
Use scissors to cut the upper thread and the bobbin
thread at the beginning of the stitching.
Pull the upper thread at the end of the stitching to the
wrong side of the fabric, and then tie it with the bobbin
thread.
j
When you are finished attaching the button, slide the
feed dog position switch, to (to the right as seen
from the rear of the machine) and turn the handwheel
to raise the feed dogs.
CAUTION
• When sewing, be sure that the needle does not
touch the button, otherwise the needle may
bend or break.
a
Memo
• The feed dogs come up when you start sewing
again.
Buttonhole Stitching/Button Sewing
Sewing S-19
UTILITY STITCHES
S
■
Attaching a shank to a button
To sew the button with a shank, attach the button with
space between it and the fabric, and then wind the thread
by hand. This attaches the button securely.
a
Place the button into button fitting foot “M”, and then
pull the shank lever toward you.
1 Shank lever
b
After sewing is finished, cut the upper thread with
plenty of excess, wind it around the thread between
the button and the fabric, and then tie it to the upper
thread at the beginning of the stitching.
Tie together the ends of the bobbin thread at the end
and at the beginning of the stitching at the wrong side of
the fabric.
c
Cut off any excess thread.
1
Zipper Insertion
S-20
* Stitch patterns can be selected directly by pressing the
numeric keys on the machine during preset utility stitch
mode. Refer to “Basic operations” section.
Inserting a centered zipper
Stitching is sewn on both pieces of fabric butted against each
other.
1 Right side of fabric
2 Stitching
3 End of zipper opening
a
Attach zigzag foot “J”.
b
Sew straight stitches up to the zipper opening.
With the right sides of the fabric facing each other, sew
reverse stitches after reaching the zipper opening.
c
Using a basting stitch, continue sewing to the edge of
the fabric.
1 Basting stitching
2 Reverse stitches
3 Wrong side of fabric
4 End of zipper opening
d
Press open the seam allowance from the wrong side of
the fabric.
1 Wrong side of fabric
e
Align the seam with the center of the zipper, and then
baste the zipper in place.
1 Wrong side of fabric
2 Basting stitching
3 Zipper
f
Remove about 5 cm (2 inches) from the end of the
basting on the outside.
1 Wrong side of fabric
2 Zipper basting
3 Outside basting
4 5 cm (2 inches)
g
Attach the presser foot holder to the right pin of zipper
foot “I”.
1 Pin on the right side
2 Needle drop point
Zipper Insertion
Stitch name Stitch
Presser foot
Stitch number
Straight stitch (Middle)
03
*
J, I
1
2
3
1
2
3
4
1
1
2
3
4
1
2
3
2
1
I
Zipper Insertion
Sewing S-21
UTILITY STITCHES
S
h
Select stitch .
i
Topstitch around the zipper.
1 Stitching
2 Right side of fabric
3 Basting stitching
4 End of zipper opening
j
Remove the basting stitching.
Inserting a side zipper
Stitching is visible on only one piece of fabric. Use this type of
zipper application for side openings and back openings.
1 Stitching
2 Right side of fabric
3 End of zipper opening
The following procedure will describe how to stitch on the left
side, as shown in the illustration.
a
Attach zigzag foot “J”.
b
Sew straight stitches up to the zipper opening.
With the right sides of the fabric facing each other, sew
reverse stitches after reaching the zipper opening.
c
Using a basting stitch, continue sewing to the edge of
the fabric.
1 Basting stitching
2 Reverse stitches
3 Wrong side of fabric
4 End of zipper opening
d
Press open the seam allowance from the wrong side of
the fabric.
1 Wrong side of fabric
CAUTION
• When using zipper foot “I”, be sure to select
the straight stitch (center needle position), and
slowly turn the handwheel toward
you
(
counterclockwise)
to check that the needle
does not touch the presser foot. If a different
stitch is selected or the needle hits the presser
foot, the needle may bend or break.
CAUTION
• When sewing, be sure that the needle does not
touch the zipper, otherwise the needle may
bend or break.
1
2
3
4
1
2
3
1
2
3
4
1
Zipper Insertion
S-22
e
Press the seam allowance so that the right side (the side
that will not be stitched) has an extra 3 mm (1/8 inch).
1 Wrong side of fabric
2 3 mm (1/8 inch)
f
Align the zipper teeth with the pressed edge of the
fabric having the extra 3 mm (1/8 inch), and then baste
or pin the zipper in place.
1 Zipper teeth
2 Basting stitching
g
Attach the presser foot holder to the right pin of zipper
foot “I”.
If the stitching will be sewn on the right side, attach the
presser foot holder to the left pin of the zipper foot.
1 Pin on the right side
2 Needle drop point
h
Select stitch .
i
Sew the zipper to the piece of fabric with the extra 3
mm (1/8 inch), starting from the base of the zipper.
j
When you are about 5 cm (2 inches) from the end of
the zipper, stop the machine with the needle lowered
(in the fabric), raise the presser foot lever.
k
Open the zipper and continue sewing.
l
Close the zipper, turn over the fabric, and then baste
the other side of the zipper to the fabric.
1 Basting stitching
m
Attach the presser foot holder to the other pin of
zipper foot “I”.
If the presser foot holder was attached to the right pin in
step
g, change it to the left pin.
1 Pin on the left side
2 Needle drop point
CAUTION
• When using zipper foot “I”, be sure to select
the straight stitch (center needle position), and
slowly turn the handwheel toward you
(
counterclockwise)
to check that the needle
does not touch the presser foot. If a different
stitch is selected or the needle hits the presser
foot, the needle may bend or break.
1
2
2
1
2
1
I
CAUTION
• When sewing, be sure that the needle does not
touch the zipper, otherwise the needle may
bend or break.
1
I
1
2
Zipper Insertion
Sewing S-23
UTILITY STITCHES
S
n
Topstitch around the zipper.
Sew reverse stitches at the end of the zipper opening
and align the zipper teeth with the side of the presser
foot.
1 Right side of fabric
2 End of zipper opening
3 Reverse stitches
4 Beginning of stitching
5 Basting stitching
o
When you are about 5 cm (2 inches) from the end of
the zipper, stop the machine with the needle lowered
(in the fabric), and then raise the presser foot lever.
p
Remove the basting stitching, open the zipper, and
then continue sewing.
CAUTION
• When sewing, be sure that the needle does not
touch the zipper, otherwise the needle may
bend or break.
1
2
3
4
5
Zipper/piping Insertion
S-24
A zipper and piping can be sewn in place.
* Stitch patterns can be selected directly by pressing the
numeric keys on the machine during preset utility stitch
mode. Refer to “Basic operations” section.
**Adjustable zipper/piping foot (sold separately with some
models)
Inserting a centered zipper
a
Refer to step a–f of “Inserting a centered zipper”
on page S-20.
b
Remove the presser foot and presser foot holder to
attach the screw-on adjustable zipper/piping foot (sold
separately with some models).
• For details on removing the presser foot holder, refer
to “Removing and attaching the presser foot holder”
in the “Basic operations” section.
c
Select stitch .
d
Loosen the positioning screw on the back of the presser
foot.
1 Positioning screw
e
Slide the presser foot over to either the left or right
feed dog.
f
Change the needle position so that the needle does not
touch the presser foot.
For details, refer to “Setting the stitch width” in the
“Basic operations” section.
1 Needle drop point
g
Securely tighten the positioning screw using a
screwdriver.
1 Positioning screw
Zipper/piping Insertion
Stitch name Stitch
Presser foot
Stitch number
Straight stitch (Left)
01
***
Note
• Make sure that the thread between the spool and
the bobbin is pulled tight.
a
CAUTION
• After adjusting the needle position, slowly turn
the handwheel toward you (counterclockwise)
and check the needle does not touch the
presser foot. If the needle hits the presser foot,
the needle may bend or break.
Left sewing position
Right sewing position
1
a
Zipper/piping Insertion
Sewing S-25
UTILITY STITCHES
S
h
Topstitch around the zipper.
1 Stitching
2 Right side of fabric
3 Basting stitching
4 End of zipper opening
i
Remove the basting stitching.
Inserting a piping
a
Place the piping between two layers of fabric, right
sides together, as shown below.
1 Fabric
2 Piping
3 Fabric
b
Refer to the steps of attaching the adjustable zipper/
piping foot on page S-24.
c
Sew along the piping.
d
After sewing, turn them over.
CAUTION
• When sewing, be sure that the needle does not
touch the zipper, otherwise the needle may
bend or break.
1
2
3
4
1
2
3
Sewing Stretch Fabrics and Elastic Tape
S-26
* Stitch patterns can be selected directly by pressing the
numeric keys on the machine during preset utility stitch
mode. Refer to “Basic operations” section.
Stretch stitching
a
Attach zigzag foot “J”.
b
Select stitch .
c
Sew the fabric without stretching it.
Elastic attaching
When elastic tape is attached to the cuff or waist of a piece of
clothing, the finished dimensions will be that of the stretched
elastic tape. Therefore, it is necessary that a suitable length of
the elastic tape be used.
a
Pin the elastic tape to the wrong side of the fabric.
Pin the elastic tape to the fabric at a few points to make
sure that the tape is uniformly positioned on the fabric.
1 Elastic tape
2 Pin
b
Attach zigzag foot “J”.
c
Select a stitch.
d
Sew the elastic tape to the fabric while stretching the
tape so that it is the same length as the fabric.
While pulling the fabric behind the presser foot with
your left hand, pull the fabric at the pin nearest the front
of the presser foot with your right hand.
Sewing Stretch Fabrics and Elastic Tape
Stitch name Stitch
Presser foot
Stitch number
Stem stitch
06
*
J
2 steps elastic zigzag
stitch
11
3 steps elastic zigzag
stitch
12
*
Tape attaching stitch 42
J
CAUTION
• When sewing, be sure that the needle does not
touch any pins, otherwise the needle may bend
or break.
1
2
J
Appliqué, Patchwork and Quilt Stitching
Sewing S-27
UTILITY STITCHES
S
* Stitch patterns can be selected directly by pressing the
numeric keys on the machine during preset utility stitch
mode. Refer to “Basic operations” section.
Appliqué stitching
a
Cut out the appliqué, leaving a seam allowance
between 3 and 5 mm (1/8 and 3/16 inch).
1 Seam allowance
b
Place a pattern made of thick paper or stabilizer on the
back of the appliqué, and then fold over the seam
allowance using an iron.
c
Turn the fabric over, and then baste or fuse it onto the
fabric that it will be attached to.
1 Basting stitching
d
Attach the zigzag foot “J” or the open toe foot (sold
separately with some models) shown below.
e
Select a stitch.
Appliqué, Patchwork and Quilt Stitching
Stitch name Stitch
Presser foot
Stitch number
Zigzag stitch
08
*
J
Quilting appliqué
zigzag stitch
28
Blanket stitch 33
Quilting appliqué
stitch
29
Piecing stitch (Right) 25
Piecing stitch (Middle) 26
Patchwork join stitch 36
Patchwork double
overlock stitch
37
Couching stitch 38
Hand-look quilting
stitch
27
Quilting stippling
stitch
30
Memo
• Patterns showing a “Q” in the table above are for
quilting and those showing a “P” are for piecing.
1
Note
• If glue is used to hold the appliqué in place on
the fabric, do not apply glue to areas that will be
sewn with the machine. If glue adheres to the
needle or bobbin case, the machine may be
damaged.
Zigzag foot “J” Open toe foot
1
J
Appliqué, Patchwork and Quilt Stitching
S-28
f
Turn the handwheel toward you (counterclockwise),
and then begin sewing around the edge of the
appliqué, making sure that the needle drops just
outside of the appliqué.
When sewing around corners, stop the machine with
the needle in the fabric just outside of the appliqué,
raise the presser foot lever, and then turn the fabric as
needed to change the sewing direction.
Patchwork (crazy quilt) stitching
a
Fold the edge of the top piece of fabric and place it
over the lower piece.
b
Sew the two pieces of fabric together so the pattern
spans over both pieces.
Piecing
Sewing together two pieces of fabric is called “piecing”. The
fabric pieces should be cut with a 6.5 mm (1/4 inch) seam
allowance.
Sew a piecing straight stitch 6.5 mm (1/4 inch) from either the
right side or the left side of the presser foot.
a
Baste or pin along the seam allowance of the fabric
that you wish to piece together.
b
Attach zigzag foot “J”.
c
Select stitch .
d
Sew with the side of the presser foot aligned with the
edge of the fabric.
■ For a seam allowance on the right side
Align the right side of the presser foot with the edge of the
fabric, and sew using stitch .
1 6.5 mm (1/4 inch)
■ For a seam allowance on the left side
Align the left side of the presser foot with the edge of the
fabric, set the stitch width to 1.5 mm and sew using stitch
.
1 6.5 mm (1/4 inch)
Memo
• To change the width of the seam allowance
(needle position), adjust the stitch width. For
details, refer to “Setting the stitch width” in the
“Basic operations” section.
J
1
1
Appliqué, Patchwork and Quilt Stitching
Sewing S-29
UTILITY STITCHES
S
■ Piecing using the 1/4" quilting foot with guide
(sold separately with some models)
This quilting foot can sew an accurate 1/4 inch or 1/8 inch
seam allowance.
It can be used for piecing together a quilt or for
topstitching.
a
Press , and then attach the 1/4” quilting foot with
guide.
b
Use the guide and marks on the presser foot to sew
accurate seam allowances.
Piecing a 1/4 inch seam allowance
Sew keeping the edge of the fabrics against the guide.
1 Guide
2 1/4 inch
Creating an accurate seam allowance
Use the mark on the foot to begin, end, or pivot 1/4 inch
from edge of fabric.
1 Align this mark with edge of fabric to begin.
2 Beginning of stitching
3 End of stitching
4 Opposite edge of fabric to end or pivot
5 1/4 inch
Topstitching quilting, 1/8 inch
Sew with the edge of the fabric aligned with the left side of
the presser foot end.
1 Surface of fabric
2 Seam
3 1/8 inch
■ Using the 1/4" quilting foot (sold separately
with some models)
If the 1/4" quilting foot is used, seams can be sewn with a
seam allowance of 6.4 mm (1/4 inch).
a
Baste or pin along the seam allowance of the fabric
that you wish to piece together.
b
Attach the 1/4" quilting foot.
c
Select stitch .
d
Align the mark at the upper edge of the 1/4" quilting
foot with the upper edge of the fabric.
Align the right edge of the fabric with the right edge of
the narrow part of the 1/4" quilting foot.
1 Mark on 1/4" quilting foot
2 Beginning of stitching
When sewing with a seam allowance, align the left edge
of the narrow part of the 1/4" quilting foot with the
fabric edge.
1 Seam (3.2 mm (1/8 inch))
a
b
a
e
e
c
d
b
a
b
c
1
2
1
Appliqué, Patchwork and Quilt Stitching
S-30
e
Start sewing.
f
When the end of the stitching is reached, stop the
machine.
Sew until the mark at the lower edge of the 1/4" quilting
foot aligns with the lower edge of the fabric.
1 6.4mm (1/4 inch)
2 End of stitching
3 Mark on 1/4" quilting foot
Quilting
Sandwiching batting between the top and bottom layers of
fabric is called “quilting”. Quilts can easily be sewn using the
walking foot* and the quilting guide*.
* Sold separately with some models.
a
Baste the fabric to be quilted.
b
Remove the presser foot and the presser foot holder.
• For details, refer to “Removing and attaching the
presser foot holder” in the “Basic operations”
section.
c
Hook the connecting fork of the walking foot onto the
needle clamp screw.
1 Connecting fork
2 Needle clamp screw
d
Lower the presser foot lever, insert the presser foot
holder screw, and then tighten the screw with the
screwdriver.
1 Presser foot holder screw
e
Select a stitch.
f
Place one hand on each side of the presser foot, and
then evenly guide the fabric while sewing.
Note
• Thread the needle manually when using the
walking foot, or attach the walking foot only after
threading the needle using the needle threader.
• When quilting, use a 90/14 home sewing
machine needle.
• The walking foot can only be used with straight
or zigzag stitch patterns. Do not sew reverse
stitches with the walking foot.
• When sewing with the walking foot, sew at a
speed between slow and medium.
• When using the walking foot, test sew on a scrap
piece of fabric that is to be used in project.
2
3
1
CAUTION
• Be sure to securely tighten the screws with the
screwdriver, otherwise the needle may touch
the presser foot, causing it to bend or break.
• Before starting to sew, 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.
a
b
a
Appliqué, Patchwork and Quilt Stitching
Sewing S-31
UTILITY STITCHES
S
■ Using the quilting guide (sold separately with
some models)
Use the quilting guide to sew parallel stitches that are
equally spaced.
a
Insert the stem of the quilting guide into the hole at the
rear of the walking foot or presser foot holder.
Walking foot
Presser foot holder
b
Adjust the stem of the quilting guide so that the guide
aligns with the seam that has already been sewn.
Free motion quilting
We recommend attaching the foot controller and sewing at a
consistent speed. You can adjust the sewing speed with the
speed control slide on the machine.
■ Using free motion open toe quilting foot “O”*
or quilting foot*
* Sold separately with some models.
The free motion open toe quilting foot “O” or quilting foot
is used for free motion quilting with zigzag or decorative
stitches or for free motion quilting of straight lines on
fabric with an uneven thickness. Various stitches can be
sewn using free motion open toe quilting foot “O”. For
details on the stitches that can be used, refer to “Stitch
Setting Chart” in the “Basic operations” section.
a
Slide the feed dog position switch, located at the rear
of the machine on the base, to (to the left as seen
from the rear of the machine).
1 Feed dog position switch (as seen from the rear of the
machine)
The feed dogs are lowered.
b
Select a stitch.
c
Remove the presser foot holder.
• For details, refer to “Removing and attaching the
presser foot holder” in the “Basic operations”
section.
d
Attach the quilting foot by positioning the pin of the
quilting foot above the needle clamp screw and
aligning the lower-left of the quilting foot and the
presser bar.
1 Pin
2 Needle clamp screw
3 Presser bar
CAUTION
• With free motion quilting, control the feeding
speed of the fabric to match the sewing speed.
If the fabric is moved faster than the sewing
speed, the needle may break or other damage
may result.
Free motion open
toe quilting foot “O”
Quilting foot
Note
• Make sure that the quilting foot is not slanted.
a
a
b
c
a
b
c
Appliqué, Patchwork and Quilt Stitching
S-32
e
Hold the quilting foot in place with your right hand,
and tighten the presser foot holder screw using the
screwdriver with your left hand.
1 Presser foot holder screw
f
Use both hands to stretch the fabric taut, and then
move the fabric at a consistent pace in order to sew
uniform stitches roughly 2.0 mm - 2.5 mm (approx.
1/16 inch - 3/32 inch) in length.
1 Stitch
g
After sewing is finished, slide the feed dog position
switch lever to (to the right as seen from the rear
of the machine) and turn the handwheel to raise the
feed dogs.
Satin stitching using the sewing speed
controller
A decorative stitch can be sewn by changing the stitch width
of a satin stitch. If the machine is set so that the stitch width
can be adjusted using the sewing speed controller, the stitch
width can quickly and easily be adjusted. In this case, the
sewing speed is adjusted with the foot controller.
a
Connect the foot controller.
b
Attach zigzag foot “J”.
c
Press to turn on the stitch width control function.
The machine is now set so that the stitch width can
be controlled with the sewing speed controller.
d
Select stitch .
e
While sewing, slide the sewing speed controller to
adjust the stitch width.
Slide the controller to the left to make the width
narrower. Slide the controller to the right to make the
width wider.
• Adjust the sewing speed with the foot controller.
f
When you are finished sewing, press to turn off
the stitch width control function.
CAUTION
• Be sure to securely tighten the screws with the
included screwdriver. Otherwise, the needle
may touch the quilting foot, causing it to bend
or break.
Memo
• Do not be discouraged with your initial results.
The technique requires practice.
J
Narrower Wider
Memo
• Although the stitching result differs depending on
the type of fabric being sewn and the thickness of
the thread being used, for best results, adjust the
stitch length to between 0.3 and 0.5 mm (1/64 and
1/32 inch).
Reinforcement Stitching
Sewing S-33
UTILITY STITCHES
S
Reinforce points that will be subject to strain, such as sleeve
holes, inseams and pocket corners.
* Stitch patterns can be selected directly by pressing the
numeric keys on the machine during preset utility stitch
mode. Refer to “Basic operations” section.
Triple stretch stitching
Use triple stretch stitching to reinforce sleeve holes and
inseams.
a
Attach zigzag foot “J”.
b
Select stitch
.
c
Start sewing.
Bar tack stitching
Bar tacks are used to reinforce points subject to strain, such as
pocket corners and openings.
As an example, the procedure for sewing bar tacks at pocket
corners is described below.
a
Determine the desired length of the bar tack.
Set the button guide plate on buttonhole foot “A” to the
desired length. (The distance between the markings on
the presser foot scale is 5 mm (3/16 inch).)
1 Presser foot scale
2 Length of bar tack
3 5 mm (3/16 inch)
• A bar tack with a maximum length of about 28 mm
(1–1/8 inches) can be sewn.
b
Attach buttonhole foot “A”.
c
Select stitch
.
d
Position the fabric so that the opening of the pocket
faces toward you, and then lower the presser foot lever
so that the needle drops 2 mm (1/16 inch) in front of
the pocket opening.
1 2 mm (1/16 inch)
Pass the upper thread down through the hole in the
presser foot.
• When lowering the presser foot, do not push in the
front of the presser foot, otherwise the bar tack will
not be sewn with the correct size.
1 Do not reduce the gap.
Reinforcement Stitching
Stitch name Stitch
Presser foot
Stitch number
Triple stretch stitch
05
*
J
Bar tack stitch 67
A
Darning stitch
65
66
J
3
1
2
1
a
Reinforcement Stitching
S-34
e
Pull down the buttonhole lever as far as possible.
1 Buttonhole lever
The buttonhole lever is positioned behind the bracket
on the buttonhole foot.
1 Buttonhole lever
2 Bracket
f
Gently hold the end of the upper thread in your left
hand, and then start sewing.
g
Raise the presser foot lever, remove the fabric, and
then cut the threads.
h
Raise the buttonhole lever to its original position.
Darning
1 Reinforcement stitching
a
Determine the desired length of the darning.
Set the button guide plate on buttonhole foot “A” to the
desired length. (The distance between the markings on
the presser foot scale is 5 mm (3/16 inch).)
1 Presser foot scale
2 Length of darning
3 5 mm (3/16 inch)
4 7 mm (1/4 inch)
• A bar tack with a maximum length of about 28 mm
(1-1/8 inches) can be sewn.
Once sewing is completed, the machine
automatically sews reinforcement stitches, then
stops.
b
Attach buttonhole foot “A”.
c
Select stitch or .
Memo
• If the fabric does not feed, for example, because it
is too thick, increase the stitch length. For details,
refer to “Setting the stitch length” in the “Basic
operations” section.
a
2
1
1
2
4
3
Reinforcement Stitching
Sewing S-35
UTILITY STITCHES
S
d
Position the fabric so that the needle is 2 mm (1/16
inch) in front of the area to be darned.
1 Tear
2 2 mm (1/16 inch)
Pass the upper thread down through the hole in the
presser foot, and then lower the presser foot.
• When lowering the presser foot, do not push in the
front of the presser foot, otherwise the darning will
not be sewn with the correct size.
1 Do not reduce the gap.
e
Pull down the buttonhole lever as far as possible.
1 Buttonhole lever
The buttonhole lever is positioned behind the bracket
on the buttonhole foot.
1 Buttonhole lever
2 Bracket
f
Gently hold the end of the upper thread in your left
hand, and then start sewing.
g
Raise the presser foot lever, remove the fabric, and
then cut the threads.
h
Raise the buttonhole lever to its original position.
2
1
a
a
2
1
Memo
• If the fabric does not feed, for example, because it
is too thick, increase the stitch length. For details,
refer to “Setting the stitch length” in the “Basic
operations” section.
Eyelet Stitching
S-36
Eyelets, such as those on belts, can be sewn.
a
Attach monogramming foot “N”.
b
Select stitch
.
c
Adjust either the stitch width or the stitch length to
select the desired eyelet size.
1 7 mm (approx. 1/4 inch)
2 6 mm (approx. 15/64 inch)
3 5 mm (approx. 3/16 inch)
• For details, refer to “Setting the stitch width” and
“Setting the stitch length” in the “Basic operations”
section.
d
Lower the needle into the fabric at the beginning of the
stitching, and then lower the presser foot lever.
e
Start sewing.
Once sewing is completed, the machine
automatically sews reinforcement stitches, then
stops.
f
Use the eyelet punch to cut a hole in the center of the
eyelet.
• When using the eyelet punch, place thick paper or
some other protective sheet under the fabric before
punching the hole in the fabric.
Eyelet Stitching
Stitch name Stitch
Presser foot
Stitch number
Eyelet stitch 69 N
1
2
3
Memo
• If thin thread is used, the stitching may be too
open. If this occurs, sew the eyelet twice before
removing the fabric, one on top of the other.
Decorative Stitching
Sewing S-37
UTILITY STITCHES
S
The utility stitches contain the following decorative
stitches.
Fagoting
Stitching across an open seam is called “fagoting”. It is used
on blouses and children's clothing. This stitch is more
decorative when thicker thread is used.
a
Use an iron to fold the two pieces of fabric along their
seams.
b
Baste the two pieces of fabric, separated by about 4
mm (3/16 inch), onto thin paper or a sheet of water-
soluble stabilizer.
If you draw a line down the middle of the thin paper or
water-soluble stabilizer, sewing is easier.
1 Thin paper or water soluble stabilizer
2 Basting stitching
3 4 mm (3/16 inch)
c
Attach zigzag foot “J”.
d
Select stitch or .
e
Set the stitch width to 7.0 mm (1/4 inch).
f
Sew with the center of the presser foot aligned along
the center of the two pieces of fabric.
g
After sewing is finished, remove the paper.
Decorative Stitching
Stitch name Stitch
Presser foot
Stitch number
Patchwork join stitch 36
J
Patchwork double
overlock stitch
37
Couching stitch 38
Shell tuck edge stitch 34
Smocking stitch 39
Feather stitch 40
Fagoting cross stitch 41
Satin scallop stitch 35
N
Hemstitching
48
50
52
56
Ladder stitch 43
J
Rick-rack stitch 44
Decorative stitch 45
Serpentine stitch 46 N
2
1
3
J
Decorative Stitching
S-38
Scallop stitching
The wave-shaped repeated pattern that looks like shells is
called “scalloping”. It is used on the collars of blouses and to
decorate the edges of projects.
a
Attach monogramming foot “N”.
b
Select stitch .
c
Stitch along the edge of the fabric, making sure not to
sew directly on the edge of the fabric.
• For better results, apply spray starch onto the fabric
and press with a hot iron before it is sewn.
d
Trim along the stitches.
• Be careful not to cut the stitches.
Smocking
The decorative stitch created by stitching or embroidering
over gathers is called “smocking”. It is used to decorate the
front of blouses or cuffs.
The smocking stitch adds texture and elasticity to fabric.
a
Attach zigzag foot “J”.
b
Select the straight stitch, and then adjust the stitch
length to 4.0 mm (3/16 inch) and loosen the thread
tension.
• For details, refer to “Setting the stitch length” and
“Setting the thread tension” in the “Basic operations”
section.
• For details, refer to “Pulling up the bobbin thread” in
the “Basic operations” section.
c
Sew parallel stitching at intervals of 1 cm (3/8 inch).
1 1 cm (3/8 inch)
• Do not use reverse/reinforcement stitching or thread
cutting.
• At the end of the stitching, the thread is pulled out
about 5 cm (2 inches).
d
Pull the bobbin threads to create gathers.
Smooth the gathers by ironing them.
e
Select stitch , or .
f
Stitch between the straight stitches.
g
Pull out the threads for the straight stitches.
J
1
Decorative Stitching
Sewing S-39
UTILITY STITCHES
S
Shell tuck stitching
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
Fold the fabric along the bias.
b
Attach zigzag foot “J”.
c
Select stitch , and then increase the thread tension.
d
Sew while making sure that the needle drops slightly
off the edge of the fabric.
1 Needle drop point
e
Unfold the fabric, and then iron the tucks down to one
side.
Joining
Decorative bridging stitches can be sewn over the seam
allowance of joined fabrics. This is used when making a crazy
quilt.
a
Attach zigzag foot “J”.
b
Sew together the right sides of the two pieces of fabric,
and then open up the seam allowances.
1 Wrong side of fabric
2 7 mm (1/4 inch) seam allowance
3 Straight stitch
c
Select stitch , or .
d
Turn the fabric over so that the right side faces up, and
then sew over the seam with the center of the presser
foot aligned with the seam.
1 Right side of fabric
J
1
J
1
1
2
3
a
Decorative Stitching
S-40
Heirloom stitching
When sewing with the wing needle, the needle holes are
enlarged, creating a lace-like decorative stitch. This is used to
decorate hems and tablecloths on thin or medium weight
fabrics in addition to plain weave fabrics.
a
Install the wing needle.
• Use a 130/705H 100/16 wing needle.
• For details on installing a needle, refer to “Replacing
the Needle” in the “Basic operations” section.
• The needle threader cannot be used with the wing
needle, otherwise the machine may be damaged.
Manually pass the thread through the eye of the
needle from the front to the back.
For details, refer to “Threading the needle manually
(without using the needle threader)” in the “Basic
operations” section.
b
Attach monogramming foot “N”.
c
Select a stitch.
The stitches that can be used are , , or .
• When sewing with the wing needle, select a stitch
width of 6.0 mm (15/64 inch) or less.
d
Start sewing.
Partially removing threads is called “drawnwork”. This gives
beautiful results with fabrics that have a loose weave.
The procedure for creating drawnwork is described below.
■ Drawnwork
a
Pull out several threads from two sections of the fabric,
separated by an unfrayed section of about 4 mm (3/16
inch).
1 4 mm (3/16 inch)
b
Attach monogramming foot “N”.
c
Select stitch .
d
Sew along the center of the unfrayed section.
CAUTION
• When sewing with the wing needle, select a
stitch width of 6.0 mm (15/64 inch) or less,
otherwise the needle may bend or break.
• After adjusting the stitch width, 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.
1
N
Decorative
sewing
This section provides instructions on sewing character stitches and decorative stitches as well as on
adjusting and editing them.
Page number starts with “D” in this section.
The screen display and machine illustration may vary slightly, depending on the machine model.
Chapter1 CHARACTER / DECORATIVE STITCHES................ D-2
CAUTION
• Before replacing the presser foot, be sure to turn off the machine, otherwise injuries may
occur if the “Start/Stop” button or any other button is pressed and the machine starts
operating. For details on changing the presser foot, refer to “Replacing the Presser Foot” in
the “Basic operations” section.
Sewing the Various Built-in Decorative Patterns
D-2
Selecting stitch patterns
This machine is equipped with the decorative stitches and
character stitches.
■ When selecting a decorative stitch
The category contains the following four types of
stitches:
• Decorative stitches:
• Satin stitches:
• 7 mm satin stitches:
• Cross stitch stitches:
a
Press .
is displayed on the LCD screen.
b
Enter the number of the desired stitch using numeric
keys, and then press .
• For number of each stitch, refer to the Quick
Reference Guide.
• Depending on the stitch number, the stitch may be
selected without pressing .
• When using one-digit numbers and it is entered
incorrectly, press to erase the entered number.
The number for the selected stitch appears in the
LCD.
■ When selecting a character stitch
a
Press repeatedly to display the icon of the desired
font.
• Each time the is pressed, it changes the font in
the following order.
...
The icon for the selected font appears in the LCD.
b
Enter the number of the desired character stitch using
numeric keys.
• For number of each stitch, refer to the Quick
Reference Guide, and then press .
• Depending on the stitch number, the stitch may be
selected without pressing .
• When a digit is incorrectly pressed, press to
erase the entered number.
The number for the selected stitch appears on the
LCD.
Chapter 1
CHARACTER /
DECORATIVE STITCHES
Sewing the Various Built-in Decorative Patterns
Icon Font
Gothic
Handwriting
Outline
Japanese
Sewing the Various Built-in Decorative Patterns
Decorative sewing D-3
CHARACTER / DECORATIVE STITCHES
D
Deleting a pattern
To remove a selected pattern, press on the operation
panel.
The selected pattern is removed.
Sewing attractive finishes
To achieve attractive results when sewing
character/decorative stitches, check the table below for the
proper fabric/thread/needle combinations.
Memo
• If a new pattern is selected without deleting the
previously selected one, the first and second
patterns are combined. (Refer to “Combining
patterns” on page D-5.)
• If two patterns or more have been already
selected, the pattern that was selected last is
removed.
• You can delete the entire combined pattern by
pressing .
Note
• Other factors, such as fabric thickness, stabilizer
material, etc., also have an effect on the stitch,
so you should always sew a few trial stitches
before beginning your project.
• It may be necessary to adjust the pattern,
depending on the type of fabric being sewn or
the sewing speed. Adjust the pattern while
sewing trial stitches on a scrap piece of fabric
that is the same as what is used in your project.
Refer to “Realigning the pattern” on page D-7.
• When sewing satin stitch patterns, there may be
shrinking or bunching of stitches, so be sure to
attach a stabilizer material.
• Guide the fabric with your hand to keep the
fabric feeding straight and even during sewing.
Fabric When sewing on stretch fabrics, lightweight
fabrics, or fabrics with coarse weaves, attach
stabilizer on the wrong side of the fabric. An
alternative would be to place the fabric on thin
paper such as tracing paper.
1 Fabric
2 Stabilizer
3 Thin paper
Thread #50 - #60
Needle With lightweight, regular, or stretch fabrics: the Ball
point needle (golden colored) 90/14
With heavyweight fabrics: home sewing machine
needle 90/14
Presser foot Monogramming foot “N”.
Using zigzag foot “J” or other presser feet may
give inferior results.
Twin needle You can sew with twin needle (2/11) when you
select 7 mm satin stitch pattern. In this case, use
zigzag foot “J”.
Sewing the Various Built-in Decorative Patterns
D-4
Basic sewing
a
Select a decorative/character stitch pattern.
b
Attach monogramming foot “N”.
c
Place the fabric under the presser foot, pull the upper
thread out to the side, press (Needle position
button) to lower needle into fabric and then lower the
presser foot.
d
Press the “Start/Stop” button to begin sewing.
e
Press the “Start/Stop” button to stop sewing.
f
Press (Reverse stitch button) or (Reinforcement
stitch button) to sew reinforcement stitches.
Memo
• If the fabric is pulled or pushed during sewing, the
pattern may not turn out correctly. Guide the
fabric with your hand to keep the fabric feeding
straight and even during sewing.
Memo
• When sewing character stitches, the machine
automatically sews reinforcement stitches at the
beginning and end of each character.
• When sewing is completed, trim any excess
thread between letters.
Note
• When sewing some patterns, the needle will
temporarily pause in the raised position while the
fabric is fed due to the operation of the needle
bar separation mechanism which is used in this
machine. At such times, a clicking sound
different from the sound generated during
sewing will be heard. This sound is normal and is
not the sign of a malfunction.
Sewing the Various Built-in Decorative Patterns
Decorative sewing D-5
CHARACTER / DECORATIVE STITCHES
D
Combining patterns
You can sew names, etc., by combining character stitches.
Character stitches and decorative stitches can also be
combined.
Example:
Selecting stitches:
a
Press to display “ ”.
b
Use the numeric keys to enter “13”.
1 Stitch number
2 Position number
3 Total number
c
Press to display “ ”.
d
Use the numeric keys to enter “12”.
e
Use the numeric keys to enter “5”, and then press .
And add “A” (No. 1) and “F” (No. 6).
f
Press to display “ ”.
g
Use the numeric keys to enter “13”.
• To remove a selected pattern, press on the
operation panel. The pattern that was selected last is
removed.
h
After combining the patterns, check the entered
characters and their order before stitching.
• For details, refer to “Checking the selected pattern”
on page D-6.
i
After all of the desired patterns are selected, start
sewing.
The order in which the patterns are selected is the
order that they will be sewn.
Stitch pattern Category Stitch number
13
L12
E5
A1
F6
13
b
a
c
Memo
• Up to 70 patterns can be combined.
• If multiple patterns have been combined, the
sewing machine stops once all the selected
patterns displayed in the LCD have been sewn. To
repeatedly sew the combined pattern, refer to
“Repeating combined patterns” on page D-6.
• The combined pattern can be stored for later use.
For details, refer to “Saving a pattern” on
page D-6.
• You can delete all patterns being combined by
pressing while combining patterns.
• If you mistakenly press while combining
patterns, press or , and then enter “00” by
using the numeric key. You can retrieve the
patterns that you combined before you pressed
. If necessary, save the retrieved pattern in the
machine's memory. For details, refer to “Saving a
pattern” on page D-6.
Sewing the Various Built-in Decorative Patterns
D-6
Checking the selected pattern
You can check the combined patterns.
a
Press the “-” or “+” key, and confirm the pattern.
• You can check the stitch number and the order of the
patterns.
1 Stitch number
2 Category
3 Total number
4 Position number
5 Pattern check keys
Repeating combined patterns
When multiple stitch patterns are combined, the sewing
machine will stop stitching after the last entered pattern
number appears on screen has completed sewing. Use the
following operations to sew a combined pattern repeatedly.
a
After the patterns have been combined, press .
on the LCD screen turns to , and you can
now sew the specified pattern repeatedly.
If pressed again, it turns to (single sewing), and
machine will stop sewing at end of combined
patterns.
Saving a pattern
Combined patterns can be stored for later use. Since stored
patterns are not lost after the sewing machine is turned off,
they can be recalled at any time. Only one pattern
combination can be stored.
a
Create the combined pattern that you wish to store.
• For details, refer to “Combining patterns” on
page D-5.
b
Press on the operation panel.
• Do not turn off the sewing machine while the pattern
is being stored, otherwise the pattern data may be
lost.
Memo
• The combined pattern can be stored for later use.
For details, refer to “Saving a pattern” on
page D-6.
e
d
a
c
b
e
d
a
c
b
Note
• If repeated sewing is set, the pattern is
repeatedly sewn until the sewing machine is
stopped.
• If the sewing machine is turned off, the
repeated/single sewing setting returns to its
default setting.
Memo
• When a pattern is saved in the machine where an
existing pattern is already saved, the stitch is
overwritten.
• Once the pattern has been saved in pocket, it can
not be deleted without overwriting. When you
wish to clear saved pattern, press without
selecting a pattern.
Sewing the Various Built-in Decorative Patterns
Decorative sewing D-7
CHARACTER / DECORATIVE STITCHES
D
Retrieving a pattern
a
Press once or twice until a screen of saved
patterns like the one shown below appears.
When a saved pattern is retrieved, the pocket
appears.
Realigning the pattern
The pattern may not be sewn correctly, depending on the type
of fabric being sewn or the sewing speed. If this occurs, adjust
the pattern while sewing on a piece of scrap fabric that is the
same as what is used for your project.
a
Attach monogramming foot “N”.
b
Press , and then enter “99” with the numeric keys.
c
Start sewing.
The sewing machine stops after it has finished sewing
the pattern.
d
Check the sewn pattern.
If the part of the pattern indicated in the illustration is
sewn uniformly, the pattern is correctly aligned.
If the pattern is not sewn correctly, follow the steps
below to align the stitching.
e
Press the “-” or “+” key to adjust the vertical position.
Make the necessary adjustments according to how
the pattern is sewn.
* If the pattern is bunched:
Press “+” to increase the vertical space in the design.
* If the pattern has gaps:
Press “-” to decrease the vertical space in the design.
f
Start the sewing machine and check the stitching.
Continue adjusting the pattern until it is sewn correctly.
Memo
• You can check the combined patterns. For
details, refer to “Checking the selected pattern”
on page D-6.
• To add new patterns, select the desired category,
and then enter the number of the stitch.
Memo
• To finish realigning the pattern, press , ,
or any of the numeric keys.
• After the pattern is realigned, the patterns
selected before realignment are deleted. To
retrieve the patterns selected before realignment,
press or , and then enter “00” with the
numeric keys.
Sewing the Various Built-in Decorative Patterns
D-8
Appendix
This section provides important information for operating this machine. Please read this section to find
troubleshooting tips and pointers as well as how to keep your machine in the best working order.
Page number starts with “A” in this section.
Chapter1 MAINTENANCE AND TROUBLESHOOTING........ A-2
Care and Maintenance
A-2
Restrictions on oiling
In order to prevent damaging this machine, it must not be
oiled by the user.
This machine was manufactured with the necessary amount
of oil applied to ensure correct operation, making periodic
oiling unnecessary.
If problems occur, such as difficulty turning the handwheel or
an unusual noise, immediately stop using the machine, and
contact your authorized Brother dealer or the nearest Brother
authorized service center.
Precautions on storing the machine
Do not store the machine in any of the locations described
below, otherwise damage to the machine may result, for
example, rust caused by condensation.
• Exposed to extremely high temperatures
• Exposed to extremely low temperatures
• Exposed to extreme temperature changes
• Exposed to high humidity or steam
• Near a flame, heater or air conditioner
• Outdoors or exposed to direct sunlight
• Exposed to extremely dusty or oily environments
Cleaning the LCD screen
If the screen is dirty, gently wipe it with a soft, dry cloth. Do
not use organic solvents or detergents.
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 damp
cloth, wipe it again with a dry cloth.
Cleaning the race
Sewing performance will suffer if lint and dust collects in the
bobbin case, therefore, it should be cleaned regularly.
a
Press (Needle position button) to raise the needle.
b
Turn off the machine.
c
Unplug the power cord from the power supply jack on
the right side of the machine.
d
Raise the presser foot to remove the needle, presser
foot and presser foot holder.
• For details, refer to “Replacing the Needle” and
“Replacing the Presser Foot” in the “Basic
operations” section.
e
Remove the flat bed attachment if it is attached.
f
Remove the needle plate cover.
Chapter 1
MAINTENANCE AND
TROUBLESHOOTING
Care and Maintenance
Note
• In order to extend the life of this machine,
periodically turn it on and use it.
Storing this machine for an extended period of
time without using it may reduce its efficiency.
Note
• Do not wipe the LCD screen with a damp cloth.
Memo
• Occasionally, condensation may form on the LCD
screen or it may become fogged up; however, this
is not a malfunction. After a while, the cloudiness
will disappear.
CAUTION
• Unplug the power cord before cleaning the
machine, otherwise injuries or an electric
shock may occur.
CAUTION
• Unplug the power cord before cleaning the
machine, otherwise injuries or an electric
shock may occur.
Care and Maintenance
Appendix A-3
MAINTENANCE AND TROUBLESHOOTING
A
■ If there is a screw in the needle plate cover
1 Use the disc shaped screwdriver to remove the screw in
the needle plate cover.
2 Grasp both sides of the needle plate cover, and then
slide it toward you.
1 Needle plate cover
■ If there is no screw in the needle plate cover
1 Grasp both sides of the needle plate cover, and then
slide it toward you.
1 Needle plate cover
g
Remove the bobbin case.
Grasp the bobbin case, and then pull it out.
1 Bobbin case
h
Use the cleaning brush or a vacuum cleaner to remove
any lint and dust from the race and the surrounding
area.
1 Cleaning brush
2 Race
• Do not apply oil to the bobbin case.
i
Insert the bobbin case so that the
mark on the
bobbin case aligns with the
mark on the machine.
• Align the and
marks.
1 mark
2
mark
3 Bobbin case
• Make sure that the indicated points are aligned
before installing the bobbin case.
Memo
• (For models that include the L-shaped
screwdriver)
You can also use the L-shaped screwdriver to
remove the screw in the needle plate cover.
a
a
1
a
b
b
a
Care and Maintenance
A-4
j
Insert the tabs on the needle plate cover into the
needle plate, and then slide the cover back on.
1 Needle plate cover
CAUTION
• Never use a bobbin case that is scratched,
otherwise the upper thread may become
tangled, the needle may break or sewing
performance may suffer. For a new bobbin
case, contact your nearest Brother authorized
service center.
• Be sure that the bobbin case is correctly
installed, otherwise the needle may break.
a
Troubleshooting
Appendix A-5
MAINTENANCE AND TROUBLESHOOTING
A
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://support.brother.com/
”.
If the problem persists, contact your authorized Brother
dealer or the nearest Brother authorized service center.
Frequent troubleshooting topics
Detailed causes and remedies for common troubleshooting
topics are described below. Be sure to refer to this before
contacting us.
Upper thread tightened up
■ Symptom
• The upper thread appears as a single continuous line.
• The lower thread is visible from the upper side of the
fabric. (Refer to the illustration below.)
• The upper thread has tightened up, and comes out
when pulled.
• The upper thread has tightened up, and wrinkles
appear in the fabric.
• The upper thread tension is tight, and the results do
not change even after the thread tension is adjusted.
1 Wrong side of fabric
2 Bobbin thread visible from right side of fabric
3 Upper thread
4 Right side of fabric
5 Bobbin thread
■ Cause
Incorrect bobbin threading
If the bobbin thread is incorrectly threaded, instead of the
appropriate tension being applied to the bobbin thread, it
is pulled through the fabric when the upper thread is
pulled up. For this reason, the thread is visible from the
right side of the fabric.
■ Remedy/check details
Correctly install the bobbin thread.
a
Turn off the machine, and then raise the presser foot
lever.
b
Remove the bobbin from the bobbin case.
c
Place the bobbin in the bobbin case so that the thread
unwinds in the correct direction.
• Hold the bobbin with your right hand with the thread
unwinding to the left, and hold the end of the thread
with your left hand.
Then, with your right hand, place the bobbin in the
bobbin case.
If the bobbin is inserted with the thread unwinding in
the wrong direction, sewing will be done with an
incorrect thread tension.
d
While holding the bobbin in place with your finger,
pass the thread through the slit in the needle plate
cover.
• Hold down the bobbin with your right hand, and
then pull the end of the thread around the tab with
your left hand.
1 Tab
2 Hold down the bobbin with your right hand.
Troubleshooting
Upper thread tightened up page A-5
Tangled thread on wrong side of fabric page A-6
Incorrect thread tension page A-7
Fabric is caught in the machine and cannot
be removed
page A-8
If the thread becomes tangled under the
bobbin winder seat
page A-11
Error message “E06” appears in the LCD page A-13
Troubleshooting
A-6
Pull the thread to pass it through the slit in the needle
plate cover, then cut it with the cutter.
3 Slit
4 Cutter
Sewing with the correct thread tension is possible after
the bobbin has been correctly installed in the bobbin
case.
Tangled thread on wrong side of fabric
■ Symptom
• The thread becomes tangled on the wrong side of the
fabric.
• After starting sewing, a rattling noise is made and
sewing cannot continue.
• Looking under the fabric, there is tangled thread in
the bobbin case.
■ Cause
Incorrect upper threading
If the upper thread is incorrectly threaded, the upper
thread passed through the fabric cannot be firmly pulled
up and the upper thread becomes tangled in the bobbin
case, causing a rattling noise.
■ Remedy/check details
Remove the tangled thread, and then correct the upper
threading.
a
Remove the tangled thread. If it cannot be removed,
cut the thread with scissors.
• For details, refer to “Cleaning the race” on page A-2.
b
Remove the upper thread from the machine.
• If the bobbin was removed from the bobbin case,
refer to “Installing the bobbin” in the “Basic
operations” section and “Remedy/check details” in
the section “Upper thread tightened up” on page A-5
to correctly install the bobbin.
c
Refer to the following steps to correct the upper
threading. Raise the presser foot using the presser foot
lever.
1 Presser foot lever
The upper thread shutter opens so the machine can
be threaded.
• If the presser foot is not raised, the machine cannot
be threaded correctly.
d
Press (Needle position button) once or twice to
raise the needle.
The needle is correctly raised when the mark on the
handwheel is at the top, as shown below. Check the
handwheel and, if this mark is not at this position,
press (Needle position button) until it is.
1 Mark on handwheel
e
Turn off the machine.
1
1
Troubleshooting
Appendix A-7
MAINTENANCE AND TROUBLESHOOTING
A
f
While holding the thread lightly with your right hand,
pull the thread with your left hand, and then pass the
thread behind the thread guide cover and to the front.
1 Thread guide cover
g
While holding the thread lightly with your right hand,
pass the thread under the thread guide plate, and then
pull it up.
1 Thread guide plate
h
Pass the thread through the thread channel in the order
shown below.
1 Shutter
i
Lower the presser foot.
j
Slide the thread behind the needle bar thread guide.
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, as shown.
Make sure that the thread is passed through to the left of
the tab of the needle bar thread guide.
1 Needle bar thread guide
2 Tab
k
Next, use the needle threader to thread the needle.
Continue with the procedure in “Threading the
needle” in the “Basic operations” section.
Incorrect thread tension
■ Symptoms
• Symptom 1: The bobbin thread is visible from the
right side of the fabric. (Refer to illustration below)
• Symptom 2: The upper thread appears as a straight
line on the right side of the fabric.
• Symptom 3: The upper thread is visible from the
wrong side of the fabric. (Refer to illustration below)
• Symptom 4: The bobbin thread appears as a straight
line on the wrong side of the fabric.
• Symptom 5: The stitching on the wrong side of the
fabric is loose or has slack.
Symptom 1
Symptom 3
1 Wrong side of fabric
2 Bobbin thread visible from right side of fabric
3 Upper thread
4 Right side of fabric
5 Bobbin thread
6 Upper thread visible from wrong side of fabric
1
1
1
2
Troubleshooting
A-8
■ Cause/remedy/check details
Cause 1
The machine is not correctly threaded.
<With symptoms 1 and 2 described above>
The bobbin threading is incorrect.
Return the upper thread tension to the standard setting,
and then refer to “Upper thread tightened up” on page A-5
to correct the threading.
<With symptoms 3 and 5 described above>
The upper threading is incorrect.
Return the upper thread tension to the standard setting,
and then refer to “Tangled thread on wrong side of fabric”
on page A-6 to correct the upper threading.
Cause 2
A needle and thread appropriate for the fabric are not
being used.
The machine needle that should be used depends on the
type of fabric sewn and the thread thickness.
If a needle and thread appropriate for the fabric are not
being used, the thread tension will not be adjusted
correctly, causing wrinkles in the fabric or skipped
stitches.
• Refer to “Fabric/Thread/Needle Combinations” in the
“Basic operations” section to check that a needle and
thread appropriate for the fabric are being used.
Cause 3
An appropriate upper tension is not selected.
The setting selected for the upper thread tension is not
appropriate.
Refer to “Setting the thread tension” in the “Basic
operations” section to select an appropriate thread
tension.
The appropriate thread tension differs depending on the
type of fabric and thread being used.
* Adjust the thread tension while test sewing on a
piece of scrap fabric that is the same as that used in
your project.
• If the bobbin thread is visible from the right side of
the fabric
Turn the thread tension dial to the left to decrease the
tension of the upper thread.
• If the upper thread is visible from the wrong side of
the fabric
Turn the thread tension dial to the right to increase
the tension of the upper thread.
Fabric is caught in the machine and cannot
be removed
If the fabric is caught in the machine and cannot be removed,
the thread may have become tangled under the needle plate.
Follow the procedure described below to remove the fabric
from the machine. If the operation cannot be completed
according to this procedure, instead of attempting to remove it
forcefully, contact your nearest Brother authorized service
center.
■ Removing the fabric from the machine
a
Immediately stop the machine.
b
Turn off the machine.
c
Remove the needle.
If the needle is lowered into the fabric, turn the
handwheel away from you (clockwise) to raise the
needle out of the fabric, and then remove the needle.
• Refer to “Replacing the needle” in the “Basic
operations” section.
d
Remove the presser foot and presser foot holder.
• Refer to “Replacing the presser foot” and “Removing
and attaching the presser foot holder” in the “Basic
operations” section.
e
Lift up the fabric and cut the threads below it.
If the fabric can be removed, remove it. Continue with
the following steps to clean the race.
f
Remove the needle plate cover.
1 Needle plate cover
• Refer to “Cleaning the race” on page A-2.
Note
• If the upper threading and bobbin threading are
incorrect, the thread tension cannot be adjusted
correctly. Check the upper threading and bobbin
threading first, and then adjust the thread
tension.
1
Troubleshooting
Appendix A-9
MAINTENANCE AND TROUBLESHOOTING
A
g
Cut out the tangled threads, and then remove the
bobbin.
h
Remove the bobbin case.
If threads remain in the bobbin case, remove them.
1 Bobbin case
i
Use the cleaning brush or a vacuum cleaner mini
attachment to remove any lint or dust from the race
and its surrounding area.
1 Cleaning brush
2 Race
j
Use the included disc-shaped screwdriver to loosen the
two screws on the needle plate.
k
Slightly lift up the needle plate, cut any tangled
threads, and then remove the needle plate.
Remove the fabric and threads from the needle plate.
If the fabric cannot be removed, even after completing
these steps, contact your nearest Brother authorized
service center.
l
Remove any threads in the race and around the feed
dogs.
m
Turn the handwheel to raise the feed dogs.
n
Align the two screw holes in the needle plate with the
two holes at the needle plate mounting base, and then
fit the needle plate onto the machine.
o
Lightly finger-tighten the screw on the right side of the
needle plate. Then, use the disc-shaped (or L-shaped)
screwdriver to firmly tighten the screw on the left side.
Finally, firmly tighten the screw on the right side.
If the fabric could be removed. Continue with step p.
If the fabric could not be removed. Continue with step j.
Note
• Compressed can air is not recommended to be
used.
Memo
• (For models that include the L-shaped
screwdriver)
You can also use the L-shaped screwdriver to
remove the screw in the needle plate cover.
Note
• Be careful not to drop the removed screws in the
machine.
Troubleshooting
A-10
Turn the handwheel to check that the feed dogs move
smoothly and do not contact the edges of the slots in the
needle plate.
1 Correct position of feed dogs
2 Incorrect position of feed dogs
p
Insert the bobbin case so that the mark on the
bobbin case aligns with the
mark on the machine.
• Align the and
marks.
1 mark
2
mark
3 Bobbin case
• Make sure that the indicated points are aligned
before installing the bobbin case.
q
Attach the needle plate cover according to step j in
“Cleaning the race” on page A-2.
r
Check the condition of the needle, and then install it.
If the needle is in a poor condition, for example, if it is
bent, be sure to install a new needle.
• Refer to “Checking the needle” and “Replacing the
needle” in the “Basic operations” section.
■ Checking machine operations
If the needle plate has been removed, check machine
operations to confirm that installation has been completed
correctly.
a
Turn on the machine.
b
Select stitch .
Note
• Be careful not to drop the removed screws in the
machine.
a
b
b
a
CAUTION
• Never use a bobbin case that is scratched,
otherwise the upper thread may become
tangled, the needle may break or sewing
performance may suffer.
• Make sure that you fit the bobbin case
properly, otherwise the needle may break.
CAUTION
• Never use bent needles. Bent needles can
easily break, possibly resulting in injuries.
Note
• After completing this procedure, continue with
the following procedure in “Checking machine
operations” to check that the machine is
operating correctly.
Memo
• Since the needle may have been damaged when
the fabric was caught in the machine, we
recommend replacing it with a new one.
Note
• Do not yet install the presser foot and thread.
Troubleshooting
Appendix A-11
MAINTENANCE AND TROUBLESHOOTING
A
c
Slowly turn the handwheel toward you
(counterclockwise), and look from all sides to check
that the needle falls at the center of the opening in the
needle plate.
If the needle contacts the needle plate, remove the
needle plate, and then install it again, starting with step
m in “Removing the fabric from the machine” on
page A-8.
1 Opening in the needle plate
2 Handwheel
d
Select stitch . At this time, increase the stitch length
and width to their maximum settings.
• For details on changing the settings, refer to “Setting
the stitch width” and “Setting the stitch length” in the
“Basic operations” section.
e
Slowly turn the handwheel toward you
(counterclockwise) and check that the needle bar and
feed dogs operate correctly.
If the needle or feed dogs contact the needle plate, the
machine may be malfunctioning; therefore, contact
your nearest Brother authorized service center.
f
Turn off the machine, and then install the bobbin and
presser foot.
• Refer to “Installing the bobbin” and “Replacing the
presser foot” in the “Basic operations” section.
g
Correctly thread the machine.
• For details on threading the machine, refer to “Upper
Threading” in the “Basic operations” section.
h
Perform trial sewing with cotton fabric.
If the thread becomes tangled under the
bobbin winder seat
If the bobbin winding starts when the thread is not passed
under the pretension disk of the bobbin-winding thread guide
correctly, the thread may become tangled under the bobbin
winder seat.
In such a case, wind off the thread according to the following
procedure.
1 Thread
2 Bobbin winder seat
Memo
• The thread may have become tangled as a result
of incorrect upper threading. Make sure that the
machine is correctly threaded.
Note
• Incorrect sewing may be the result of incorrect
upper threading or sewing thin fabrics. If there
are poor results from the trial sewing, check the
upper threading or the type of fabric being used.
Memo
• The shape of the bobbin winder guide post will
differ depending on your model; however, this
should not affect the operating procedure.
This manual describes the procedure for models
with a key-shaped bobbin winder guide post.
1 Bobbin winder guide post (oval)
1 Bobbin winder guide post (key)
1
2
1
1
Troubleshooting
A-12
a
If the thread become tangled under the bobbin winder
seat, press the “Start/Stop” button once to stop the
bobbin winding.
When the foot controller is plugged in, remove your
foot from the foot controller.
b
Cut the thread with scissors beside the bobbin-winding
thread guide.
1 Bobbin-winding thread guide
c
Slide the bobbin winder shaft to the left, and then
remove the bobbin from the shaft and cut the thread
leading to the bobbin in order to be able to completely
remove the bobbin from shaft.
d
Hold the thread end with your left hand, and wind off
the thread clockwise with your right hand as shown
below.
e
Wind the bobbin again.
CAUTION
• Do not remove the bobbin winder seat even if
the thread become tangled under the bobbin
winder seat. It may result in injuries.
• Do not remove the screw on the bobbin
winder guide post, otherwise the machine may
be damaged; you cannot wind off the thread
by removing the screw.
1 Screw of the bobbin winder guide post
1
1
Note
• Make sure that the thread passes under the
pretension disk of the bobbin-winding thread
guide correctly.
Troubleshooting
Appendix A-13
MAINTENANCE AND TROUBLESHOOTING
A
Error message “E06” appears in the LCD
If the error message “E06” appears in the LCD with the
occurrence of one of the following symptoms, follow the
procedure below to solve the problem.
■ Symptoms
• Symptom 1: The machine rattles and then stops just
after sewing is started.
• Symptom 2: The upper thread is tangled, for
example, in the race, or fabric is caught in the
machine.
• Symptom 3: The needle breaks, or the needle bends
and thus hits the needle plate.
• Symptom 4: The fabric does not feed.
■ Symptom 1: The machine rattles and then stops
just after sewing is started.
Cause
• The upper thread is not threaded correctly.
• The thread take-up lever is not threaded.
• When the machine stops just after sewing is started,
the upper thread may not be threaded correctly.
Remedy
Thread the upper thread again correctly by following the
procedure below.
a
Turn off the machine.
b
If the thread is tangled, remove the tangled thread.
• Refer to “Cleaning the race” on page A-2 and
“Tangled thread on wrong side of fabric” on page A-
6.
c
Remove the upper thread from the machine.
d
Turn the handwheel toward you (counterclockwise) to
check if the handwheel moves smoothly.
e
Remove the needle plate cover, and then remove the
bobbin and bobbin case.
f
Insert the bobbin case so that the mark on the
bobbin case aligns with the
mark on the machine.
• Refer to “Cleaning the race” on page A-2.
g
Attach the needle plate cover.
• Refer to “Cleaning the race” on page A-2.
h
Set the bobbin in the bobbin case.
• Refer to “Cleaning the race” on page A-2.
i
If the needle is bent, replace it with a new one.
• Refer to “Replacing the needle” in the “Basic
operations” section.
j
Turn on the machine, and then press (Needle
position button) to raise the needle.
• Refer to “Upper Threading” in the “Basic operations”
section.
k
Thread the machine correctly.
• For details on threading the machine, refer to “Upper
Threading” in the “Basic operations” section.
■ Symptom 2: The upper thread is tangled, for
example, in the race, or fabric is caught in the
machine.
Cause
Thread is tangled below the needle plate.
Remedy
Remove the fabric and reset the thread and bobbin by
following the procedure below.
a
Turn off the machine.
b
Remove the fabric from the machine.
• Refer to “Fabric is caught in the machine and cannot
be removed” on page A-8.
c
Remove the upper thread and bobbin.
• Refer to “Fabric is caught in the machine and cannot
be removed” on page A-8.
d
Remove the bobbin case.
• Refer to “Fabric is caught in the machine and cannot
be removed” on page A-8.
e
If threads remain in the bobbin case, remove it.
• Refer to “Fabric is caught in the machine and cannot
be removed” on page A-8.
f
Insert the bobbin case so that the mark on the
bobbin case aligns with the
mark on the machine.
• Refer to “Cleaning the race” on page A-2.
g
Attach the needle plate cover.
• Refer to “Cleaning the race” on page A-2.
h
Set the bobbin in the bobbin case.
• Refer to “Cleaning the race” on page A-2.
i
If the needle is bent, replace it with a new one.
• Refer to “Replacing the needle” in the “Basic
operations” section.
j
Turn on the machine, and then press (Needle
position button) to raise the needle.
• Refer to “Upper Threading” in the “Basic operations”
section.
Note
• If the needle is not raised, the upper thread
cannot be threaded correctly. Be sure to press
(Needle position button) to raise the needle
before threading the upper thread.
If the handwheel moves smoothly Continue with step j.
If the handwheel does not move
smoothly
Continue with step
e.
Troubleshooting
A-14
k
Thread the machine correctly.
• For details on threading the machine, refer to “Upper
Threading” in the “Basic operations” section.
■ Symptom 3: The needle breaks, or the needle
bends and thus hits the needle plate.
Cause
You have not used the right combination of fabric, thread
and needle.
Remedy
Choose a thread and needle that are appropriate for the
type of fabric.
• Refer to “Fabric/Thread/Needle Combinations” in the
“Basic operations” section.
■ Symptom 4: The fabric does not feed.
Cause 1
The thread has become clogged as the stitch is too fine.
Remedy 1
Lengthen the stitch length.
• Refer to “Setting the stitch width” and “Setting the
stitch length” in the “Basic operations” section.
Cause 2
Feed dog is in down position.
Remedy 2
Raise feed dog.
• Refer to “Free motion quilting” in the “Sewing”
section.
Troubleshooting
Appendix A-15
MAINTENANCE AND TROUBLESHOOTING
A
List of symptoms
■ Getting ready
Symptom Probable Cause Remedy Reference
Cannot thread the
needle.
Needle is not in the correct position. Press the “Needle position” button to raise the
needle.
B-4
Needle is installed incorrectly. Reinstall the needle correctly. B-27
Needle is turned, bent or the point is dull. Replace the needle. B-27
Upper threading is incorrect. Check the steps for threading the machine and
rethread the machine.
B-19
The needle threader hook is bent and does not
pass through the eye of the needle.
Contact your authorized Brother dealer or the
nearest Brother authorized service center.
–
The needle threader lever cannot be moved or
returned to its original position.
Contact your authorized Brother dealer or the
nearest Brother authorized service center.
–
A size 65/9 needle is being used. The needle is incompatible with the needle
threader. Manually pass the thread through the
eye of the needle.
B-22
Bobbin thread
does not wind
neatly on the
bobbin.
The thread is not passed through the bobbin
winding thread guide correctly.
Correctly pass the thread through the bobbin
winding thread guide.
B-13
Bobbin spins slowly. Move the sewing speed controller to the right
so that the speed will be increased.
B-13
The thread that was pulled out was not wound
onto the bobbin correctly.
Wind the thread that was pulled off around the
bobbin 5 or 6 times clockwise.
B-13
The empty bobbin was not set on the pin
properly.
Set the empty bobbin on the pin and slowly turn
the bobbin until you hear it click in place.
B-13
While winding the
bobbin, the bobbin
thread was wound
below the bobbin
winder seat.
You have not wound the bobbin thread properly.
While initially winding thread on the bobbin the
bobbin thread is not properly inserted into the
guides.
After removing the thread wound below the
bobbin winder seat, wind the bobbin correctly.
Follow the drawn images on the top of the
machine for guidance when threading the
machine for bobbin winding.
B-13, A-11
The bobbin thread
cannot be pulled
up.
Needle is turned, bent or the point is dull. Replace the needle. B-27
Bobbin is set incorrectly. Reset the bobbin correctly. B-16
Nothing appears in
the LCD.
Main power switch is not turned on. Turn the main power to ON. B-10
The plug of the power cord is not inserted into
an electrical outlet.
Insert the plug of the power cord into an
electrical outlet.
B-10
The LCD screen is
fogged up.
Condensation has formed on the LCD screen. After a while, the cloudiness will disappear. –
The operation keys
do not respond.
A glove is worn when the keys are pressed.
The keys are pressed with a fingernail.
A non-electrostatic touch pen is being used.
Directly touch the operation keys with your
finger.
When using a commercially available touch pen,
make sure that it is compatible with capacitive
sensing.
B-5
The operation keys
do not respond, or
the sensitivity is
too strong.
The sensitivity of the operation keys is not set
for the user.
Adjust the sensitivity of the operation keys. B-12
The sewing light
does not come on.
The sewing light is damaged. Contact your authorized Brother dealer or the
nearest Brother authorized service center.
–
Troubleshooting
A-16
■ While sewing
Symptom Probable Cause Remedy Reference
Machine does not
operate.
“Start/Stop” button was not pressed. Press the “Start/Stop” button. B-33
The bobbin winder shaft is pushed to the right. Move the bobbin winder shaft to the left. B-13
There is no pattern selected. Select a pattern. B-32
Presser foot is not lowered. Lower the presser foot. B-33
“Start/Stop” button was pushed with the foot
controller attached.
Remove the foot controller, or use the foot
controller to operate the machine.
B-34
The “Start/Stop” button was pressed while the
machine is set for the sewing speed controller
to control the zigzag stitch width.
Use the foot controller instead of the “Start/
Stop” button to operate the machine, or press
to turn off the width control function.
B-34
Needle breaks.
Needle is installed incorrectly. Reinstall the needle correctly. B-27
Needle clamp screw is not tightened. Tighten the needle clamp screw. B-27
Needle is turned or bent. Replace the needle. B-27
Using improper needle or thread for the
selected fabric.
Check the “Fabric/Thread/Needle
Combinations” chart.
B-26
Wrong presser foot was used. Use the recommended presser foot. B-30
Upper thread tension is too tight. Adjust the thread tension setting. B-39
Fabric is pulled during sewing. Do not pull the fabric during sewing. –
Spool cap is set incorrectly. Check the method for attaching the spool cap,
then reattach the spool cap.
B-13
There are scratches around the opening in the
needle plate.
* There is a notch on the left side of the
opening in the needle plate. This is not a
scratch.
1 Notch
Replace the needle plate, or consult your
authorized Brother dealer.
A-8
There are scratches around the opening in the
presser foot.
Replace the presser foot, or consult your
authorized Brother dealer.
B-29
There are scratches on the bobbin case. Replace the bobbin case, or consult your
authorized Brother dealer.
A-2
Needle is defective. Replace the needle. B-27
A bobbin designed specifically for this machine
is not used.
Incorrect bobbins will not work properly. Only
use a bobbin designed specifically for this
machine.
B-13
Upper threading is incorrect. Check the steps for threading the machine and
rethread the machine.
B-19
Bobbin is set incorrectly. Reset the bobbin thread correctly. B-16
Presser foot is attached incorrectly. Attach the presser foot correctly. B-29
Screw of the presser foot holder is loose. Securely tighten the screw of the presser foot. B-30
Fabric is too thick. Use fabric that the needle can pierce when the
handwheel is turned.
B-26, S-4
Fabric is fed forcefully when sewing thick fabric
or thick seams.
Allow the fabric to be fed without being
forcefully pushed.
S-4
a
Troubleshooting
Appendix A-17
MAINTENANCE AND TROUBLESHOOTING
A
Needle breaks.
Stitch length is too short. Adjust the stitch length. B-38
Bobbin thread is incorrectly wound. Use a correctly wound bobbin. B-13
Upper thread
breaks.
Machine is not threaded correctly (used the
wrong spool cap, spool cap is loose, the thread
did not catch the needle bar threader, etc.).
Rethread the machine correctly. B-19
Knotted or tangled thread is being used. Remove any knots or tangles. –
The selected needle is not appropriate for the
thread being used.
Select a needle that is appropriate for the type
of thread being used.
B-26
Upper thread tension is too tight. Adjust the thread tension. B-39
Thread is tangled. Use scissors, etc., to cut the tangled thread and
remove it from the race, etc.
A-6
Needle is turned, bent or the point is dull. Replace the needle. B-27
Needle is installed incorrectly. Reinstall the needle correctly. B-27
There are scratches around the opening in the
needle plate.
* There is a notch on the left side of the
opening in the needle plate. This is not a
scratch.
1 Notch
Replace the needle plate, or consult your
authorized Brother dealer.
A-8
There are scratches around the opening in the
presser foot.
Replace the presser foot, or consult your
authorized Brother dealer.
B-29
There are scratches on the bobbin case. Replace the bobbin case, or consult your
authorized Brother dealer.
A-2
Using improper needle or thread for the
selected fabric.
Check the “Fabric/Thread/Needle
Combinations” chart.
B-26
While sewing, the thread became knotted or
tangled.
Rethread upper and lower thread. B-13, B-19
A bobbin designed specifically for this machine
is not used.
Incorrect bobbins will not work properly. Only
use a bobbin designed specifically for this
machine.
B-13
The thread is
tangled on the
wrong side of the
fabric.
Upper threading is incorrect. Check the steps for threading the machine and
rethread the machine.
Be sure that the presser foot is in the raised
position when threading the machine so that the
upper thread sets properly in the upper tension.
B-19, A-6
Using improper needle or thread for the
selected fabric.
Check the “Fabric/Thread/Needle
Combinations” chart.
B-26
The upper thread is
too tight.
The bobbin thread is incorrectly installed. Correctly install the bobbin thread. B-16, A-5
Symptom Probable Cause Remedy Reference
a
Troubleshooting
A-18
Bobbin thread
breaks.
Bobbin is set incorrectly. Reset the bobbin correctly. B-16
Bobbin thread is incorrectly wound. Use a correctly wound bobbin. B-13
There are scratches on the bobbin or it doesn’t
rotate properly.
Replace the bobbin. B-16
Thread is tangled. Use scissors, etc. to cut the tangled thread and
remove it from the race, etc.
A-8
A bobbin designed specifically for this machine
is not used.
Incorrect bobbins will not work properly. Only
use a bobbin designed specifically for this
machine.
B-13
Fabric puckers.
There is a mistake in the upper or bobbin
threading.
Check the steps for threading the machine and
rethread it correctly.
B-19
Spool cap is set incorrectly. Check the method for attaching the spool cap,
then reattach the spool cap.
B-19
Using improper needle or thread for the
selected fabric.
Check the “Fabric/Thread/Needle
Combinations” chart.
B-26
Needle is turned, bent or the point is dull. Replace the needle. B-27
Stitches are too long when sewing thin fabrics. Shorten the stitch length. B-38
Thread tension is set incorrectly. Adjust the thread tension. B-39
Wrong presser foot. Use the correct presser foot. B-30
Skipped stitches
Machine is threaded incorrectly. Check the steps for threading the machine and
rethread it correctly.
B-19
Using improper needle or thread for the
selected fabric.
Check the “Fabric/Thread/Needle
Combinations” chart.
B-26
Needle is turned, bent or the point is dull. Replace the needle. B-27
Needle is installed incorrectly. Reinstall the needle correctly. B-27
The needle is worn/damaged. Replace the needle. B-27
Dust or lint has collected under the needle
plate.
Remove the dust or lint with the brush. A-2
Thin or stretch fabrics are being sewn. Sew with one sheet of thin paper under the
fabric.
S-4, D-3
No stitching
Needle is turned, bent or the point is dull. Replace the needle. B-27
Bobbin is set incorrectly. Reset the bobbin thread correctly. B-16
Upper threading is incorrect. Check the steps for threading the machine and
rethread the machine.
B-19
High-pitched
sound while
sewing
Dust or lint is caught in the feed dogs. Remove the dust or lint. A-2
Pieces of thread are caught in the race. Clean the race. A-2
Upper threading is incorrect. Check the steps for threading the machine and
rethread the machine.
B-19
A bobbin designed specifically for this machine
is not used.
Incorrect bobbins will not work properly. Only
use a bobbin designed specifically for this
machine.
B-13
There are needle holes or friction scratches in
the bobbin case.
Replace the bobbin case, or consult your
authorized Brother dealer.
A-2
Symptom Probable Cause Remedy Reference
Troubleshooting
Appendix A-19
MAINTENANCE AND TROUBLESHOOTING
A
Fabric does not
feed through the
machine.
Feed dogs are set in the down position. Slide the feed dog position switch to the right
.
B-2
Stitches are too close together. Lengthen the stitch length setting. B-38
Wrong presser foot was used. Use the correct presser foot. B-30
Needle is turned, bent or the point is dull. Replace the needle. B-27
Thread is entangled. Cut the entangled thread and remove it from the
race.
A-8
Zigzag foot “J” is slanted on a thick seam at the
beginning of stitching.
Use the presser foot locking pin (black button
on the left side) on zigzag foot “J” to keep the
presser foot level while sewing.
S-4
Presser foot pressure is set incorrectly for
fabric.
Adjust the presser foot pressure with the
presser foot pressure dial.
B-41
The fabric feeds in
the opposite
direction.
The feed mechanism is damaged. Contact your authorized Brother dealer or the
nearest Brother authorized service center.
–
The needle
contacts the
needle plate.
The needle clamp screw is loose. Firmly tighten the needle clamp screw. If the
needle is bent or blunt, replace it with a new
one.
B-27
Needle is turned, bent or the point is dull. Replace the needle. B-27
Fabric being sewn
with the machine
cannot be
removed.
Thread is tangled below the needle plate. Lift up the fabric and cut the threads below it,
and clean the race.
A-8
A broken needle
has fallen into the
machine.
– Turn off the machine, and then remove the
needle plate. If the needle that fell into the
machine can be seen, use tweezers to remove
it. After removing the needle, return the needle
plate to its original position and insert a new
needle.
Before turning on the machine, slowly turn the
handwheel toward you to check that it turns
smoothly and that the new needle enters
through the center of the needle plate opening.
If the handwheel does not turn smoothly or the
needle that fell into the machine cannot be
removed, contact your authorized Brother
dealer or the nearest Brother authorized service
center.
A-8
The handwheel
feels sluggish
when it is turned.
Thread is tangled in the bobbin case. Remove the tangled thread from the bobbin
case. Re-install the bobbin case so it is
correctly positioned.
A-6, A-8
The stitch is not
sewn correctly.
The presser foot that is used is not appropriate
for the type of stitch that you wish to sew.
Attach the presser foot that is appropriate for
the type of stitch that you wish to sew.
B-30
The thread tension is incorrect. Adjust the tension of the upper thread. B-39, A-7
The thread is tangled, for example, in the
bobbin case.
Remove the tangle thread. If the thread is
tangled in the bobbin case, clean the race.
A-8
Feed dogs are set in the down position. Slide the feed dog position switch to the right
.
B-2
Symptom Probable Cause Remedy Reference
Troubleshooting
A-20
■ After sewing
Symptom Probable Cause Remedy Reference
Thread tension is
incorrect.
Upper threading is incorrect. Check the steps for threading the machine and
rethread the machine.
B-19
Bobbin is set incorrectly. Reset the bobbin. (If needle plate was removed,
reinstall needle plate and tighten screws prior to
installing bobbin case. Check to make sure
needle enter through the center of needle plate
opening.)
B-16, A-2
Using improper needle or thread for the
selected fabric.
Check the “Fabric/Thread/Needle
Combinations” chart.
B-26
Presser foot holder is not attached correctly. Reattach the presser foot holder correctly. B-30
Thread tension is set incorrectly. Adjust the thread tension. B-39, A-7
Bobbin thread is incorrectly wound. Use a correctly wound bobbin. B-13
Needle is turned, bent or the point is dull. Replace the needle. B-27
A bobbin designed specifically for this machine
is not used.
Incorrect bobbins will not work properly. Only
use a bobbin designed specifically for this
machine.
B-13
Character or
decorative patterns
are misaligned.
Pattern adjustment settings were set incorrectly. Revise the pattern adjustment settings. D-7
Pattern does not
turn out.
Wrong presser foot was used. Attach the correct presser foot. B-30
Did not use a stabilizer material on thin fabrics
or stretch fabrics.
Attach a stabilizer material. S-4, D-3
Thread tension is set incorrectly. Adjust the thread tension. B-39, A-7
Fabric was pulled, pushed or fed at an angle
while it was being sewn.
Sew while guiding the fabric with your hands so
that the fabric is fed in a straight line.
B-33
The thread is tangled, for example, in the
bobbin case.
Remove the tangle thread. If the thread is
tangled in the bobbin case, clean the race.
A-8
Troubleshooting
Appendix A-21
MAINTENANCE AND TROUBLESHOOTING
A
Error messages
If the “Start/Stop” button is pressed before the machine is correctly set up or if an operation is performed incorrectly, an error
message appears in the LCD. Follow the instructions that appear. The message will disappear if or is pressed while the
message is displayed.
Error Messages Cause Solution
1 This message is displayed when a button, such as
the “Start/Stop” button, was pressed while the
presser foot was raised.
Lower the presser foot lever before continuing the
operation.
2 This message is displayed when the buttonhole lever
is down, a stitch other than a buttonhole is selected,
and a button, such as the “Start/Stop” button, is
pressed.
Lift the buttonhole lever before continuing the
operation.
3 This message is displayed when the buttonhole lever
is up, a buttonhole stitch is selected, and a button,
such as the “Start/Stop” button, is pressed.
Lower the buttonhole lever before continuing the
operation.
4 This message is displayed when a button, such as
the Reverse/reinforcement stitch button, was
pressed while the bobbin winder shaft is moved to
the right.
Move the bobbin winder shaft to the left before
continuing the operation.
5 This message is displayed when the “Start/Stop”
button was pressed while the foot controller was
connected.
Disconnect the foot controller, and then press the
“Start/Stop” button. Otherwise, operate the machine
by using the foot controller.
6 The motor locked up because the thread became
tangled, or the needle bent and thus hit the needle
plate.
Clean the race to remove the tangled thread (refer to
page A-2).
Check the needle. If the needle is bent or broken,
replace the needle. For details, refer to “Checking the
needle” and “Replacing the needle” in the “Basic
operations” section.
If both of the above fail, refer to “Error message
“E06” appears in the LCD” on page A-13.
7 This message is displayed when a button, such as
the “Start/Stop” button, was pressed after a stitch
has been deleted.
Select a pattern before continuing the operation.
8 This message is displayed when the sewing speed
controller is set to control the zigzag stitch width,
and the “Start/Stop” button is pressed.
Turn off the width control, or use the foot controller to
operate the machine. For details, refer to “Satin
stitching using the sewing speed controller” in the
“Sewing” section.
9
This message is displayed when (Twin needle) is
turned on, and a stitch pattern that cannot be sewn
with the twin needle is selected.
Switch to the single needle mode, and replace the
twin needle with a single needle before continuing
the operation.
10 This message is displayed when you try to sew with
a stitch other than a straight stitch (middle needle
position) while the straight stitch needle plate is
installed.
Turn off the machine, and then replace the needle
plate before continuing the operation.
11 This message is displayed when the needle plate
cover is removed while the machine is still turned on.
Turn off the machine, and then attach the needle
plate cover before continuing the operation.
12
F**
If error message “F**” appears in the LCD while the
machine is being used, the machine may be
malfunctioning.
Contact your nearest Brother authorized service
center.
Troubleshooting
A-22
Operation beep
Each time a key is pressed you will hear one beep. If an
incorrect operation is performed you will hear two or four
beeps.
■ If a key is pressed (correct operation)
One beep sounds.
■ If an incorrect operation is performed
Two or four beeps sound.
■ If the machine locks up, for example, because
the thread is tangled
The machine beeps for four seconds and the machine
automatically stops.
Be sure to check for the cause of the error and correct it
before continuing to sew.
■ Canceling the operation beep
a
Turn off the machine.
b
While pressing (Reinforcement stitch button) on
the operation panel, turn on the sewing machine.
c
Press the “-” or “+” key to select “ ”.
d
Press the “-” or “+” key to set to “ ”.
e
Turn off the machine, then turn it on again.
Index
Appendix A-23
MAINTENANCE AND TROUBLESHOOTING
A
Numerics
1/4" quilting foot ....................................................................... S-29
1/4" quilting foot with guide
..................................................... S-29
7 mm satin stitches
.................................................................... D-2
A
Accessories
included accessories
............................................................... B-7
optional accessories
................................................................ B-8
Accessory compartment
............................................................. B-6
Adjustable zipper/piping foot
.................................................... S-24
Adjusting stitch length
.............................................................. B-38
Adjusting stitch width
............................................................... B-38
Adjusting thread tension
........................................................... B-39
Air vent
...................................................................................... B-3
Appliqué
.................................................................................. S-27
Attaching presser foot holder
.................................................... B-30
Automatic reinforcement stitch key
.......................................... B-35
Automatic thread cutting
.......................................................... B-40
B
Ball point needle ...................................................................... B-26
Bar tack stitch
........................................................................... S-33
Basic sewing
................................................................... B-31, D-4
Basic stitching
............................................................................ S-6
Basting stitch
.............................................................................. S-6
Beep
......................................................................................... A-22
Blind hem stitch
......................................................................... S-8
Bobbin case
................................................................................ B-4
bobbin case removal
.............................................................. A-2
Bobbin cover
................................................................... B-4, B-16
Bobbin installation
................................................................... B-16
Bobbin thread
pulling up
............................................................................. B-23
winding
................................................................................ B-13
Bobbin winder
............................................................................ B-2
Bobbin winding
........................................................................ B-13
Bobbin winding thread guide
.......................................... B-2, B-13
Button guide plate
.................................................................... S-15
Button sewing
........................................................................... S-17
Buttonhole lever
.............................................................. B-4, S-16
Buttonhole sewing
.................................................................... S-14
Buttonhole stitching
.................................................................. S-14
C
Changing sewing direction ......................................................... S-2
Character stitches
........................................................... B-32, D-2
Checking needle
....................................................................... B-27
Cleaning
cleaning machine surface
....................................................... A-2
LCD screen
............................................................................. A-2
race
........................................................................................ A-2
Combining patterns
................................................................... D-5
Concealed seams
...................................................................... S-20
Crazy quilt stitching
.................................................................. S-28
Curve sewing
.............................................................................. S-2
Cutting thread automatically
..................................................... B-40
Cylindrical pieces
....................................................................... S-2
D
Darning .................................................................................... S-34
Darning stitch
........................................................................... S-33
Decorative stitches & patterns
................................................... D-2
Drawnwork
.............................................................................. S-40
E
Error messages ......................................................................... A-21
Even seam allowance
.................................................................. S-3
Eyelet stitching
.......................................................................... S-36
F
Fagoting .................................................................................... S-37
Feed dog position switch
................................................. B-3, S-31
Feed dogs
.................................................................................. B-4
Flat bed attachment
.......................................................... B-2, B-6
Foot controller
................................................................ B-3, B-34
Foot controller jack
......................................................... B-3, B-34
Fraying, preventing
................................................................... S-11
Free motion quilting
.................................................................. S-31
free motion open toe quilting foot “O”
.................................. S-31
Front view
.................................................................................. B-2
H
Handle ....................................................................................... B-3
Handwheel
................................................................................ B-3
Heirloom stitching
.................................................................... S-40
Horizontal spool pin
................................................................ B-23
I
Input sensitivity ........................................................................ B-12
Inserting a piping
...................................................................... S-25
Installing bobbin
...................................................................... B-16
J
Joining ...................................................................................... S-39
L
LCD messages .......................................................................... A-21
LCD operation
......................................................................... B-11
LCD screen
cleaning
................................................................................. A-2
Leather/vinyl fabrics
.................................................................... S-5
M
Machine surface cleaning .......................................................... A-2
Main power switch
......................................................... B-3, B-10
Maintenance
.............................................................................. A-2
Manual needle threading
......................................................... B-22
N
Needle
condition
............................................................................. B-27
position
................................................................................... S-7
replacement
......................................................................... B-27
threading
.............................................................................. B-21
types, sizes & uses
................................................................ B-26
Needle bar thread guide
............................................................ B-4
Needle plate
.............................................................................. B-4
Needle plate cover
..................................................................... B-4
Needle plate marking
.................................................................. S-3
Needle position button
.............................................................. B-4
Needle threader
....................................................................... B-21
Needle threader lever
..................................................... B-2, B-21
Non stick foot
............................................................................. S-5
Index
Index
A-24
O
Operation beep ........................................................................ A-22
Operation buttons
...................................................................... B-4
Operation keys
.......................................................................... B-5
Operation panel
................................................................ B-2, B-5
Operation problems
................................................................... A-5
Optional accessories
.................................................................. B-8
Overcasting stitches
....................................................... S-11, S-12
P
Pant legs ..................................................................................... S-2
Parallel stitches
........................................................................ B-23
Part names & functions
.............................................................. B-2
Patchwork
...................................................................... S-27, S-28
Pattern
check
..................................................................................... D-6
combination
........................................................................... D-5
realighnment
.......................................................................... D-7
recalling
................................................................................. D-7
repetition
............................................................................... D-6
storage
................................................................................... D-6
Piecing
...................................................................................... S-28
Piping inserting
......................................................................... S-25
Power supply jack
........................................................... B-3, B-10
Power switch
.................................................................. B-3, B-10
Presser foot
pressure
............................................................................... B-41
replacement
......................................................................... B-29
types
.................................................................................... B-42
Presser foot holder
installation
........................................................................... B-30
removal
................................................................................ B-30
Presser foot holder screw
........................................................... B-4
Presser foot lever
........................................................................ B-3
Presser foot pressure dial
................................................. B-3, B-41
Pretension disk
..................................................... B-2, B-15, A-11
Q
Quilting .................................................................................... S-30
Quilting guide
........................................................................... S-31
R
Race .......................................................................................... A-2
Realigning pattern
...................................................................... D-7
Recalling pattern
........................................................................ D-7
Reinforcement priority
............................................................. B-37
Reinforcement stitch button
............................................ B-4, B-35
Reinforcement stitching
............................................................ S-33
Removing presser foot holder
................................................... B-30
Repeating patterns
..................................................................... D-6
Replacing needle
..................................................................... B-27
Replacing presser foot
.............................................................. B-29
Reverse stitch button
....................................................... B-4, B-35
Reverse/Reinforcement stitches
................................................ B-35
S
Satin stitches .............................................................................. D-2
Satin stitching
........................................................................... S-32
Scallop stitching
........................................................................ S-38
Seam allowance, even
................................................................ S-3
Seam ripper
.............................................................................. S-16
Settings
automatic reinforcement stitching
........................................ B-35
beep
..................................................................................... A-22
input sensitivity
.................................................................... B-12
Sewing basics
.......................................................................... B-31
Sewing direction change
............................................................. S-2
Sewing speed controller
................................................... B-4, S-32
Shell tuck stitch
......................................................................... S-39
Side cutter
................................................................................ S-12
Smocking
................................................................................. S-38
Solving operation problems
........................................................ A-5
Spool cap
........................................................................ B-2, B-14
Spool net
.................................................................................. B-14
Spool pin
.............................................................. B-2, B-14, B-20
“Start/Stop” button
...................................................................... B-4
Stippling
................................................................................... S-27
Stitch guide foot
......................................................................... S-3
Stitch length adjustment
........................................................... B-38
Stitch selection
......................................................................... B-32
Stitch settings
........................................................................... B-42
Stitch types
............................................................................... B-31
Stitch width adjustment
............................................................ B-38
Storing patterns
......................................................................... D-6
Straight stitch
......................................................... S-6, S-20, S-28
Stretch fabrics
............................................................................. S-5
T
Thick fabrics ............................................................................... S-4
Thin fabrics
................................................................................ S-4
Thread cutter
................................................................... B-2, B-34
Thread cutter button
................................................................... B-4
Thread cutting, automatic
......................................................... B-40
Thread guide plate
..................................................................... B-2
Thread tension adjustment
....................................................... B-39
Thread tension dial
..................................................................... B-2
Threading
threading needle
................................................................... B-21
threading needle manually
................................................... B-22
upper threading
.................................................................... B-19
Tips
............................................................................................ S-2
Top cover
................................................................................... B-2
Trial sewing
................................................................................ S-2
Triple stretch stitch
........................................................... S-6, S-33
Troubleshooting
......................................................................... A-5
Twin needle
............................................................................. B-23
U
Upper thread ............................................................................ B-19
Upper thread tension
....................................................... B-39, A-7
Utility stitches
............................................................... B-32, B-42
W
Walking foot ............................................................................ S-30
Winding bobbin
....................................................................... B-13
Wing needle
............................................................................. S-40
Z
Zigzag stitches ................................................................ S-12, S-27
Zigzag width adjustment
.......................................................... B-38
Zipper insertion
centered
..................................................................... S-20, S-24
side
...................................................................................... S-21
English
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