Brother NX-600 User Manual

Computerized Sewing Machine

Operation Manual

CPS5XV[Y

GETTING READY

SEWING BASICS

UTILITY STITCHES

APPENDIX

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Cover A

Enclosed Accessories

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

damaged, contact your retailer.

Accessories

The following items should also be enclosed in the box.

Note

(For U.S.A. only)

z Foot controller: Model N5V This foot controller can be

used on this machine model NX-600.

z Screw of the presser foot holder (Part code: XA4813-

051).

z Organized accessory tray (Part code: XC4489-051)

1. 2. 3. 4.

6. 7.

10. 11. 12. 13. 14.

15.

16. 17. 18. 19.*

20.

21. 22. 23. 24. 25. 26. 27.

28.

29.

30.

31.

32.

33.

34.

35.

*75/11 2 needles

90/14 2 needles

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

No. Part Name

Part Code

No. Part Name

Part Code

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

1 Buttonhole foot "A" XC2691-051 19 Needle set X58358-051

2 Overcasting foot "G" XC3098-051 20 Twin needle X59296-051

3 Monogramming foot "N" X53840-351 21 Cleaning brush X59476-051

4 Zipper foot "I" X59370-051 22 Eyelet punch 135793-001

5 Zigzag foot "J" (on machine) XC3021-051 23 Screwdriver (large) X55467-051

6 Blind stitch foot "R" X56409-051 24 Screwdriver (small) X55468-051

7 Button fitting foot "M" 130489-001 25 Spool cap (large) 130012-054

8 Walking foot SA140 F033N (XC2214-002) 26 Spool cap (medium)(2) X55260-153

9 Quilting foot SA129 F005N (XC1948-002) 27 Spool cap (small) 130013-154

10 Stitch guide foot "P" SA160 F035 (XA8839-002) 28 Extra spool pin XC4654-051

11 Adjustable zipper/piping foot SA161 F036N (XC1970-002) 29 Spool net XA5523-050

12 Non stick foot SA114 F007N (XC1949-002) 30 Foot controller XC1154-051

13 Open toe foot SA147 F027N (XC1964-002) 31 Grid sheet set SA527 GS4 (XC4549-051)

14 1/4 inch quilting foot SA125 F001N (XC1944-002) 32 Knee lifter XA6941-052

15 Side cutter SA177 F054 (XC3879-002) 33 Operation manual XC5427-051

16 Quilting guide SA132 F016N (XC2215-002) 34 Quick reference guide

XC4546-151,

XC5434-051

17 Seam ripper X54243-001 35 Hard case XC2360-152

18 Bobbin (4) SA156 SFB (XA5539-151)

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Cover B

Names of Machine Parts and Their Functions

The names of the various parts of the sewing machine and their functions are described below. Before

using the sewing machine, carefully read these descriptions to learn the names of the machine parts.

Front view

a Thread guide plate

b Thread guide cover

Pass the thread around the thread guide plate when

threading the upper thread.

c Spool pin

Place the spool on the spool pin.

d Thread guide for bobbin winding

Pass the thread around this thread guide when winding

the bobbin thread.

e Upper cover

Open the upper cover to place the spool of thread on

the spool pin.

f Bobbin winder

Use the bobbin winder when winding the bobbin.

g Operation panel

Select a stitch from those that appear in the operation

panel. (page Cover E)

h Sewing speed controller

Use the sewing speed controller to adjust the sewing

speed.

i Knee lifter mounting slot

Plug the knee lifter into the knee lifter mounting slot.

j Operation buttons

Use the operation buttons to start the sewing machine

and automatically cut the thread. (page Cover D)

k Flat bed attachment with accessory compartment

Store presser feet and bobbins in the accessory

compartment of the flat bed attachment. When sewing

cylindrical pieces, remove the flat bed attachment.

l Thread cutter

Pass the threads through the thread cutter to cut them.

m Needle threader lever

Use the needle threader to thread the needle.

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Cover C

Needle and presser foot

section

a Buttonhole lever

Lower the buttonhole lever when sewing buttonholes

and bar tacks.

b Thread guide discs

Pass the thread through the thread guide discs when

using the needle threader to thread the needle.

c Needle bar thread hook

Pass the upper thread through the needle bar thread

hook.

d Needle plate

The needle plate is marked with guides for sewing

straight seams.

e Bobbin cover/Shuttle

Remove the bobbin cover, and then insert the bobbin

into the shuttle.

f Feed dogs

The feed dogs feed the fabric in the sewing direction.

g Presser foot

The presser foot applies pressure consistently on the

fabric as the sewing takes place. Attach the appropriate

presser foot for the selected stitching.

h Presser foot holder

The presser foot is installed onto the presser foot holder.

Right-side/rear view

a Presser foot dial

Use the presser foot dial to adjust the amount of

pressure that the presser foot applies to the fabric.

b Handle

Carry the sewing machine by its handle when

transporting the machine.

c Balance wheel

Turn the balance wheel toward you to raise and lower

the needle to sew one stitch.

d Air vent

The air vent allows the air surrounding the motor to be

exchanged. Do not cover the air vent while the sewing

machine is being used.

e Main power switch

Use the main power switch to turn the sewing machine

on and off.

f Foot controller jack

Insert the plug on the end of the foot controller cable

into the foot controller jack.

g Power supply jack

Insert the plug on the power supply cord into the power

supply jack.

h Feed dog position switch

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

Memo

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

learning to use your machine.

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Cover D

Operation buttons

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

a Start/stop button

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

machine sews at a slow speed at the beginning of

sewing while the button is depressed. When sewing is

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

refer to "Starting to sew" (page 48).

The button lights up in green, red or orange, depending

on how the sewing machine is being operated.

b Reverse/reinforcement stitch button

Press the reverse/reinforcement stitch button to sew

reverse stitches or reinforcement stitches. Reverse

stitches are sewn by keeping the button pressed down to

sew in the opposite direction. Reinforcement stitches

are sewn by sewing 3 to 5 stitches on top of each other.

For details, refer to "Securing the stitching" (page 50).

c Needle position button

Press the needle position button to raise or lower the

needle. Pressing the button twice sews one stitch.

d Thread cutter button

Press the thread cutter button after stopping sewing to

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

refer to "Cutting the thread" (page 51).

e Sewing speed controller

Slide the sewing speed controller to adjust the sewing

speed.

f Presser foot lever

Raise and lower the presser foot lever to raise and lower

the presser foot.

CAUTION

Note

z Do not press the thread cutter button if there

is no fabric under the presser foot or while

the machine is sewing, otherwise damage to

the machine may occur.

z When cutting thread thicker than #30, nylon

thread or other special threads, use the

thread cutter on the side of the machine. For

details, refer to "Cutting the thread" (page

51).

Green: When the machine is ready to start

sewing or while it is sewing

Red: When the machine is not ready to

start sewing

Orange: When the bobbin winder shaft is

moved to the right for winding the

bobbin thread onto the bobbin

● Do not press the thread cutter button

after the threads have already been cut,

otherwise the needle may break, the

threads may become tangled or damage

to the machine may occur.

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Cover E

Operation panel

The operation panel, located on the front at the right of the sewing machine, consists of the LCD (liquid crystal

display) and keys for specifying various sewing settings.

a LCD (liquid crystal display)

Settings for the selected stitch and error messages for

incorrect operations appear in the LCD. Use keys b

through i, described below, to display various items

and select the settings. For details, refer to

"Understanding the LCD Screens" (page 12).

b Sewing machine help key

Press this key to display operation information. Simple

descriptions on threading the upper thread, installing

the bobbin, winding the bobbin and replacing the

presser foot can be displayed.

c Stitch selection key

Press this key to select the desired type of stitch.

d + key

Press this key to add a pattern when sewing

combinations of characters or decorative stitches.

e C key

Press this key to remove an added pattern when sewing

combinations of characters or decorative stitches.

f Arrow keys

Use these keys to move in the indicated direction when

selecting an item displayed on the screen. In addition,

can be pressed to select a lower setting and

can be pressed to select a higher setting.

g OK key

Press this key to apply the selected item.

h Back key

Press this key to return to the previous screen.

i Settings key

Press this key to select sewing settings, such as for

automatic reverse/reinforcement stitching, or other

settings such as the operation beep.

j Stitch keys

Use these keys to quickly select one of 12 of the most

often used stitches. For details, refer to "Selecting

Stitching" (page 66).

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Optional Accessories

The following are available as optional accessories.

1. Wide table

Part code: SA537, WT2 (XC4541-051)

Memo

z To obtain optional accessories or parts, contact your sales representative or the nearest authorized

service center.

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Introduction

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

"Important Safety Instructions" (page 6), and then study this manual for the correct operation of the various

functions. In addition, after you have finished reading this manual, store it where it can quickly be

accessed for future reference.

Sewing Machine Features

a Easy upper threading

Since the spool can be installed at the front of the sewing machine, the upper thread can easily be threaded. In addition,

the needle can be threaded with a simple operation. (page 24)

b Full auto upper thread tension

The thread tension is adjusted automatically.

c Automatic thread-cutting

The sewing machine can be set to automatically cut the thread at the end of the stitching. (page 58)

d One-touch lower threading

You can start sewing without pulling up the bobbin thread. (page 22)

e Simple bobbin-winding

The bobbin can quickly and easily be wound with thread. (page 18)

f Built-in stitches

You can select from the built-in stitches available, including utility stitches, character stitches and decorative stitches.

Twelve of the most often used utility stitches can quickly be selected with the stitch keys. (page 66)

g Knee lifter

Use the knee lifter to raise and lower the presser foot with your knee, leaving both hands free to handle the fabric. (page

61)

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

Contents

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

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

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

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

Needle and presser foot

section .................................................................................................................................................. Cover C

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

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

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

Optional Accessories...........................................................................................................1

Introduction ........................................................................................................................2

Sewing Machine Features ....................................................................................................2

Important Safety Instructions ..............................................................................................6

GETTING READY 9

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

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

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

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

Understanding the LCD Screens........................................................................................12

Checking machine operating procedures ........................................................................................................13

Changing the Machine Settings .........................................................................................14

Changing the settings ......................................................................................................................................14

Changing the needle stop position ..................................................................................................................16

Adjusting the brightness of the LCD ................................................................................................................16

Changing the screen language.........................................................................................................................17

Winding/Installing the Bobbin...........................................................................................18

Bobbin precautions .........................................................................................................................................18

Winding the bobbin ........................................................................................................................................ 18

Installing the bobbin .......................................................................................................................................22

Upper Threading ...............................................................................................................24

Threading the upper thread .............................................................................................................................24

Threading the needle ...................................................................................................................................... 27

Using the twin needle ..................................................................................................................................... 28

Using thread that winds off quickly................................................................................................................. 31

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

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

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

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

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

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

Replacing the Presser Foot ................................................................................................37

Presser foot precautions .................................................................................................................................. 37

Replacing the presser foot ...............................................................................................................................37

Adjusting the pressure of the presser foot ........................................................................................................ 39

Removing the presser foot holder .................................................................................................................... 39

Using the walking foot .................................................................................................................................... 40

Sewing Cylindrical or Large Pieces....................................................................................42

Stitching cylindrical pieces.............................................................................................................................. 42

Sewing large pieces of fabric........................................................................................................................... 42

SEWING BASICS 45

Sewing...............................................................................................................................46

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General sewing procedure .............................................................................................................................. 46

Positioning the fabric ......................................................................................................................................47

Starting to sew.................................................................................................................................................48

Securing the stitching ......................................................................................................................................50

Cutting the thread ...........................................................................................................................................51

Adjusting the Thread Tension ............................................................................................53

Thread tension ................................................................................................................................................53

Changing the tension of the upper thread........................................................................................................ 54

Adjusting the Stitch Width and Length ..............................................................................55

Adjusting the stitch width................................................................................................................................ 55

Adjusting the stitch length............................................................................................................................... 56

Useful Functions................................................................................................................57

Automatically sewing reverse/reinforcement stitches.......................................................................................57

Automatically cutting the thread .....................................................................................................................58

Saving stitch settings .......................................................................................................................................60

Hands-free raising and lifting of the presser foot.............................................................................................. 61

Useful Sewing Tips ............................................................................................................62

Trial sewing ....................................................................................................................................................62

Changing the sewing direction ........................................................................................................................62

Sewing curves .................................................................................................................................................62

Sewing thick fabrics ........................................................................................................................................63

Sewing thin fabrics..........................................................................................................................................63

Sewing stretch fabrics......................................................................................................................................63

Sewing leathers or vinyl fabrics .......................................................................................................................64

Sewing an even seam allowance..................................................................................................................... 64

UTILITY STITCHES 65

Selecting Stitching .............................................................................................................66

Stitch types......................................................................................................................................................66

Selecting stitching ...........................................................................................................................................66

Overcasting Stitches..........................................................................................................68

Sewing overcasting stitches using overcasting foot "G" ....................................................................................68

Sewing overcasting stitches using zigzag foot "J" ............................................................................................. 69

Sewing overcasting stitches using the side cutter ............................................................................................. 70

Basic Stitching ...................................................................................................................72

Basting............................................................................................................................................................72

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

Blind Hem Stitching ..........................................................................................................74

Buttonhole Stitching..........................................................................................................76

Buttonhole sewing ..........................................................................................................................................77

Button sewing .................................................................................................................................................81

Zipper Insertion.................................................................................................................83

Inserting a centered zipper ..............................................................................................................................83

Inserting a side zipper .....................................................................................................................................85

Zipper/piping Insertion .....................................................................................................88

Inserting a centered zipper ..............................................................................................................................88

Inserting a piping ............................................................................................................................................89

Sewing Stretch Fabrics and Elastic Tape ............................................................................90

Stretch stitching...............................................................................................................................................90

Elastic attaching ..............................................................................................................................................90

Appliqué, Patchwork and Quilt Stitching ..........................................................................92

Appliqué stitching...........................................................................................................................................93

Patchwork (crazy quilt) stitching ..................................................................................................................... 94

Piecing............................................................................................................................................................94

Quilting ..........................................................................................................................................................96

Free-motion quilting........................................................................................................................................97

Satin stitching..................................................................................................................................................98

Reinforcement Stitching ..................................................................................................100

Triple stretch stitching ...................................................................................................................................100

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Bar tack stitching...........................................................................................................................................100

Darning......................................................................................................................................................... 102

Eyelet Stitching................................................................................................................104

Horizontal Stitching ........................................................................................................105

Decorative Stitching........................................................................................................107

Fagoting ........................................................................................................................................................108

Scallop stitching............................................................................................................................................109

Smocking......................................................................................................................................................109

Shell tuck stitching........................................................................................................................................110

Joining ..........................................................................................................................................................111

Heirloom stitching ........................................................................................................................................112

Sewing the Various Built-In Decorative Patterns.............................................................115

Sewing beautiful patterns ..............................................................................................................................115

Sewing patterns.............................................................................................................................................115

Combining patterns.......................................................................................................................................116

Repeat sewing patterns.................................................................................................................................. 117

Checking the selected pattern ....................................................................................................................... 118

Changing the pattern size..............................................................................................................................119

Changing the stitch density ........................................................................................................................... 120

Changing the pattern length ..........................................................................................................................120

Shifting patterns ............................................................................................................................................121

Mirror imaging the pattern ............................................................................................................................ 122

Storing a pattern............................................................................................................................................123

Realigning the pattern ...................................................................................................................................124

Designing a Pattern .........................................................................................................126

Drawing a sketch of the pattern..................................................................................................................... 126

Entering the pattern data ............................................................................................................................... 127

Examples of designs ......................................................................................................................................129

APPENDIX 131

Stitch Settings..................................................................................................................132

Utility stitches ...............................................................................................................................................132

Other stitches................................................................................................................................................137

Maintenance....................................................................................................................140

Cleaning the machine surface .......................................................................................................................140

Cleaning the shuttle ......................................................................................................................................140

Troubleshooting ..............................................................................................................142

Error messages ..............................................................................................................................................146

Nothing appears in the LCD.......................................................................................................................... 147

Easily adjusting the thread tension................................................................................................................. 147

Operation beep............................................................................................................................................. 148

Cancelling the operation beep ......................................................................................................................148

Removing the upper cover ............................................................................................................................ 149

Index ................................................................................................................................150

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Important Safety Instructions

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

Read all instructions before using.

DANGER - To reduce the risk of electric shock:

1. The machine should never be left unattended while plugged in. Always unplug the machine from

the electrical outlet immediately after using and before cleaning.

WARNING - To reduce the risk of burns, fire, electric shock, or injury to persons:

1. Do not allow this machine to be used as a toy. Close attention is necessary when the machine is

used by or near children.

2. Use this machine only for its intended use as described in this manual. Use only accessories

recommended by the manufacturer as contained in this manual.

3. Never operate this machine if it has a damaged cord or plug, if it is not working properly, if it has

been dropped or damaged, or dropped into water. Return the machine to the nearest authorized

dealer or service center for examination, repair, electrical or mechanical adjustment.

4. Never operate the machine with any air openings blocked. Keep ventilation openings of the

machine and foot control free from the accumulation of lint, dust, and loose cloth.

5. Never drop or insert any object into any opening.

6. Do not use outdoors.

7. Do not operate where aerosol (spray) products are being used or where oxygen is being

administered.

8. To disconnect, turn the main switch to the symbol " " position which represents off, then

remove plug from outlet.

9. Do not unplug by pulling on cord. To unplug, grasp the plug, not the cord.

10.Keep fingers away from all moving parts. Special care is required around the machine needle.

11.Always use the proper needle plate. The wrong plate can cause the needle to break.

12.Do not use bent needles.

13.Do not pull or push fabric while stitching. It may deflect the needle causing it to break.

14.Switch the machine to the symbol " " position when making any adjustments in the needle

area, such as threading needle, changing needle, threading bobbin, or changing presser foot, and

the like.

15.Always unplug the machine from the electrical outlet when removing covers, lubricating, or

when making any other user servicing adjustments mentioned in the instruction manual.

16.This sewing machine is not intended for use by young children or infirm persons without

supervision.

17.Young children should be supervised to ensure that they do not play with this machine.

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

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS

This machine is intended for household use.

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FOR USERS IN THE UK, EIRE, MALTA AND CYPRUS ONLY

If this machine is fitted with a three-pin non-rewireable BS plug then please read the following.

IMPORTANT

If the available socket outlet is not suitable for the plug supplied with this equipment, it should be cut

off and an appropriate three-pin plug fitted. With alternative plugs an approved fuse must be fitted in

the plug.

NOTE

The plug served from the main lead must be destroyed as a plug with bared flexible cords is

hazardous if engaged in a live socket outlet. In the event of replacing the plug fuse, use a fuse

approved by ASTA to BS 1362, i.e. carrying the mark, rating as marked on plug.

Always replace the fuse cover, never use plugs with the fuse cover omitted.

WARNING

DO NOT CONNECT EITHER WIRE TO THE EARTH TERMINAL WHICH IS MARKED WITH THE

LETTER ‘E’, BY THE EARTH SYMBOL OR COLOURED GREEN OR GREEN AND YELLOW.

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

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

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

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

‘N’ or colored black or blue.

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

‘L’ or colored red or brown.

Blue Neutral

Brown Live

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CONGRATULATIONS ON CHOOSING OUR MACHINE

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

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

PLEASE READ BEFORE USING THIS MACHINE

For safe operation

1. Be sure to keep your eye on the needle while sewing. Do not touch the hand wheel, thread take-

up lever, needle, or other moving parts.

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

• Operation is completed

• Replacing or removing the needle or any other parts

• A power failure occurs during use

• Maintaining the machine

• Leaving the machine unattended

3. Do not store anything on the foot controller.

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

For a longer service life

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

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

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

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

3. Do not drop or hit the machine.

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

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

For repair or adjustment

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

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

please consult your local authorized Brother dealer.

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

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1 GETTING READY

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

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

Understanding the LCD Screens..............................................................................12

Changing the Machine Settings ...............................................................................14

Winding/Installing the Bobbin.................................................................................18

Upper Threading .....................................................................................................24

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

Replacing the Presser Foot ......................................................................................37

Sewing Cylindrical or Large Pieces..........................................................................42

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

Turning the Machine On/Off

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

Power supply precautions

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

WARNING

CAUTION

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

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

● Turn off the main power and remove the plug in the following circumstances:

• When you are away from the machine

• After using the machine

• When the power fails during use

• When the machine does not operate correctly due to a bad connection or a disconnection

• During electrical storms

● Do not use extension cords or multi-plug adapters with many other appliances plugged in to

them. Fire or electric shock may result.

● Do not touch the plug with wet hands. Electric shock may result.

● When unplugging the machine, always turn off the main power first. Always grasp the plug to

remove it from the outlet. Pulling on the cord may damage the cord, or lead to fire or electric

shock.

● Do not allow the power cord to be cut, damaged, modified, forcefully bent, pulled, twisted,

or bundled. Do not place heavy objects on the cord. Do not subject the cord to heat. These

things may damage the cord and cause fire or electric shock. If the cord or plug is damaged,

take the machine to your authorized dealer for repairs before continuing use.

● Unplug the power cord if the machine is not to be used for a long period of time. Otherwise a

fire may result.

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Turning the Machine On/Off 11

Turning on the machine

Make sure that the sewing machine is turned

off (the main power switch is set to " "), and

then plug the power supply cord into the

power supply jack on the right side of the

machine.

Insert the plug of the power supply cord into a

household electrical outlet.

a Power supply jack

Press the right side of the main power switch

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

X The sewing lamp and the LCD come on

when the machine is turned on.

Turning off the machine

When you are finished using the sewing machine,

turn it off. In addition, before transporting the sewing

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

Make sure that the machine is not sewing.

Press the left side of the main power switch on

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

X The sewing lamp goes off when the machine

is turned off.

Unplug the power supply cord from the

electrical outlet.

Grasp the plug when unplugging the power

supply cord.

Unplug the power supply cord from the power

supply jack.

Note

z When the sewing machine is turned off, all

stitch settings are cancelled.

z If a power outage occurs while the sewing

machine is being operated, turn off the

sewing machine and unplug the power

supply cord. When restarting the sewing

machine, follow the necessary procedure to

correctly operate the machine.

(For U.S.A. only)

z This appliance has a polarized plug (one

blade wider than the other). To reduce the

risk of electrical shock, this plug is intended

to fit in a polarized outlet only one way. If

the plug does not fit fully in the outlet,

reverse the plug. If it still does not fit, contact

a qualified electrician to install the proper

outlet. Do not modify the plug in any way.

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 11 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

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

Understanding the LCD Screens

The LCD screen, located on the front at the right of the sewing machine, displays the settings for the

selected stitch and error messages if operations are performed incorrectly.When the sewing machine is

turned on, the LCD comes on and the following screen appears.

a Presser foot that should be used

b Single or twin needle

c Selected stitch

d Stitch length (mm)

e Stitch width (mm)

f Upper thread tension

Memo

z For details on the error messages that appear when an operation is performed incorrectly, refer to "Error

messages" (page 146).

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 12 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

Understanding the LCD Screens 13

Checking machine operating

procedures

Simple descriptions on replacing the presser foot,

threading the upper thread, winding the bobbin and

installing the bobbin can be displayed in the LCD.

Turn on the sewing machine.

X The LCD comes on.

Press (Sewing machine help key) in the

operation panel.

X The sewing machine help screen appears.

Press , , and (Arrow keys) until the

image illustrating desired topic is selected.

a Replacing the presser foot

b Threading the upper thread

c Winding the bobbin

d Installing the bobbin

Press (OK key).

X The first screen describing the procedure for

the selected topic appears.

To display the next screen, press . To return

to the previous screen, press .

 Example: Upper threading

When you are finished with the help screen,

press (OK key).

X The initial stitch screen appears again.

Note

z For details on each topic, refer to the

corresponding page in this Operation

Manual.

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 13 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

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

Changing the Machine Settings

Various sewing machine operations and sewing settings can be changed.

Changing the settings

The general procedure for changing machine settings

is described below.

Turn on the sewing machine.

X The LCD comes on.

Press (Settings key) in the operation panel.

X The settings screen appears.

Press , , and (Arrow keys) until the

stitch or machine attribute that you wish to set

is selected.

Press (OK key).

X A screen containing settings for the selected

attribute appears.

Press , , and (Arrow keys) until the

desired setting is selected.

X The setting is changed.

Press (OK key).

X The initial stitch screen appears again.

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 14 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

Changing the Machine Settings 15

■ List of stitch or machine attributes

The stitch or machine attributes that can be set are listed below. For details on each attribute, refer to the

corresponding reference page.

Attribute Icon Details Reference

Thread tension Adjusts the tension of the upper thread. page 53

Automatic

reverse/

reinforcement

stitching

Specifies automatic reverse/reinforcement stitching. page 57

Automatic

thread-cutting

Specifies automatic thread-cutting. page 58

Check pattern Allows combined patterns to be checked. page 118

Left/right

mirror imaging

Mirror images patterns along a vertical axis. page 122

Pattern length Adjusts the length of satin stitches. page 120

Pattern size Sets the size of patterns to be large or small. page 119

Repeated/

single sewing

Specifies whether the pattern will be sewn once or

repeatedly.

page 117

Stitching

density

Specifies the sewing density of the stitching. page 120

Save settings

Allows adjusted thread tensions and pattern widths

and lengths to be saved.

page 60

Needle

position

Specifies where the needle is positioned when the

sewing machine is stopped.

page 16

Twin needle

sewing

Specifies the twin needle. page 28

Stitch width

control

Allows the stitch width to be adjusted with the sewing

speed controller.

page 98

Language

Allows the language used in the screens to be

changed.

page 17

Buzzer

Specifies whether or not a beep is sounded with each

operation.

page 148

LCD brightness Adjusts the brightness of the LCD. page 16

Vertical pattern

adjustment

Adjusts the up and down position of the pattern. page 124

Horizontal

pattern

adjustment

Adjusts the left and right position of the pattern. page 124

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 15 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

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

Changing the needle stop

position

When the sewing machine is purchased, it is set to

leave the needle lowered in the fabric when sewing is

stopped. However, the machine can be set to instead

leave the needle raised when sewing is stopped.

Press (Settings key) in the operation panel,

and then press , , and (Arrow keys)

until is selected.

Press (OK key).

X The screen for changing the needle stop

position appears.

Press to select .

To return to , press .

X The machine is now set to stop with the

needle in the raised position.

Press (OK key).

X The initial stitch screen appears again.

Adjusting the brightness of

the LCD

The brightness of the LCD can be adjusted.

Press (Settings key) in the operation panel,

and then press , , and (Arrow keys)

until is selected.

Press (OK key).

X The screen for changing the brightness of the

LCD appears.

To make the LCD brighter, press (–). To

make the LCD darker, press (+).

X The brightness of the LCD is changed.

Press (OK key).

X The initial stitch screen appears again.

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 16 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

Changing the Machine Settings 17

Changing the screen language

The language used in the screens that are displayed

can be changed to one of the many available.

Press (Settings key) in the operation panel,

and then press , , and (Arrow keys)

until is selected.

Press (OK key).

X The screen for changing the language of the

screens appears.

Press or until the desired language is

selected.

The language can be changed to one of the

available: English, French, German, Dutch,

Spanish, Italian, Danish, Norwegian, Finnish,

Swedish, Portuguese, Russian, Japanese,

Korean or others.

X The language of the screens is changed.

Press (OK key).

X The initial stitch screen appears again.

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 17 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

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

Winding/Installing the Bobbin

This section describes how to wind the thread onto the bobbin, and then insert the bobbin thread.

Bobbin precautions

Be sure to observe the following precautions concerning the bobbin.

CAUTION

Winding the bobbin

Wind the thread around the bobbin to prepare the bobbin thread.

a Bobbin winder

Memo

z The order that the machine should be threaded for winding the bobbin is indicated by a broken line on

the sewing machine. Be sure to thread the machine as indicated.

● Only use the bobbin (part code: SA156, SFB (XA5539-151)) designed specifically for this

sewing machine. Use of any other bobbin may result in injuries or damage to the machine.

● The enclosed bobbin was designed specifically for this sewing machine. If bobbins from older

models are used, the machine will not operate correctly. Use only the enclosed bobbin or

bobbins of the same type (part code: SA156, SFB (XA5539-151)).

11.5 mm

Actual size

This model

Older model

(7/16 inch)

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 18 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

Winding/Installing the Bobbin 19

Turn on the sewing machine.

Lift open the upper cover.

Place the bobbin on the bobbin winder shaft so

that the spring on the shaft fits into the notch

in the bobbin.

a Notch

b Bobbin winder shaft spring

Slide the bobbin winder shaft to the right.

Remove the spool cap that is inserted onto the

spool pin.

a Spool pin

b Spool cap

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 unrolls from the

bottom front of the spool.

• If the spool is not positioned so that the

thread unrolls correctly, the thread may

become tangled around the spool pin.

Slide the spool cap onto the spool pin.

With the rounded side of the spool cap

positioned toward the left, slide the spool cap

onto the spool pin as far as possible until the

right side of the spool touches the right end of

the spool pin.

• Three spool cap sizes are available (large,

medium and small). Use the spool cap with a

diameter that is slightly larger than the

diameter of the spool. The medium-sized

spool cap is already on the spool pin when

the sewing machine is purchased.

a Spool cap (large)

b Spool cap (medium)

c Spool

• When using a spool of cross-wound thread,

install the small spool cap with some space

between the cap and the spool.

a Spool

b Gap

c Spool cap (small)

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 19 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

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

CAUTION

While holding the spool with your right hand,

pull the thread with your left hand, and then

pass the thread behind the thread guide cover

to the front.

a Thread guide cover

Pass the thread under the thread guide plate

from the right.

a Thread guide plate

Pull the thread to the right, pass it under the

hook on the thread guide for bobbin winding,

and then wind it counterclockwise between

the discs.

a Thread guide for bobbin winding

While using your left hand to hold the end of

the thread that wraps around the thread guide

for bobbin winding, use your right hand to

wind the free end of the thread clockwise

around the bobbin four or five times.

Pull the thread to the right and pass it through

the slit in the bobbin winder seat.

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

X The thread is cut to a suitable length.

● 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.

● Three spool cap sizes are available (large,

medium and small), 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.

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 20 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

Winding/Installing the Bobbin 21

CAUTION

Slide the sewing speed controller to the right

(so that the speed will be fast).

a Sewing speed controller

Press (Start/stop button) once.

a Start/stop button

X The bobbin starts spinning and the thread is

wound around the bobbin.

X The bobbin stops spinning when it is full.

Press (Start/stop button) once.

X The sewing machine stops.

Use scissors to cut the end of the thread

wound around the bobbin.

Slide the bobbin winder shaft to the left.

Remove the bobbin from the shaft.

Slide the sewing speed controller back to its

original position.

CAUTION

Memo

z When the sewing machine is started or the

balance wheel is turned after winding the

thread around the bobbin, the machine will

make a clicking sound; this is not a

malfunction.

● Be sure to cut the thread as described on

the previous page. 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.

● Use a bobbin thread that has been

correctly wound, otherwise the needle

may break or the thread tension will be

incorrect.

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 21 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

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

Installing the bobbin

Install the bobbin wound with thread.

CAUTION

Memo

z The order that the bobbin thread should be

passed through the shuttle is indicated by

marks around the shuttle. Be sure to thread

the machine as indicated.

Slide the bobbin cover latch to the right.

a Bobbin cover

b Latch

X The bobbin cover opens.

Remove the bobbin cover.

Hold the bobbin with your right hand and hold

the end of the thread with your left.

• Be careful not to drop the bobbin.

Insert the bobbin into the shuttle so that the

thread unrolls to the left.

• Be sure to insert the bobbin correctly.

Lightly hold down the bobbin with your right

hand, and then guide the thread as shown with

your left hand.

Pass the thread through the slot as shown, and

then pull the thread out toward the front.

a Cutter

X The cutter cuts the thread.

● Use a bobbin thread that has been

correctly wound, otherwise the needle

may break or the thread tension will be

incorrect.

● The bobbin was designed specifically for

this sewing machine. If bobbins from

older models are used, the machine will

not operate correctly. Use only the

enclosed bobbin or bobbins of the same

type (part code: SA156, SFB (XA5539-

151)).

Actual size

11.5 mm

This model Older model

(7/16 inch)

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 22 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

Winding/Installing the Bobbin 23

CAUTION

Reattach the bobbin cover.

Insert the tab in the lower-left corner of the

bobbin cover, and then lightly press down on

the right side.

X The lower threading is finished.

Next, thread the upper thread. Continue with

the procedure in "Upper Threading" (on the

next page).

Memo

z You can begin sewing without pulling up the

bobbin thread. If you wish to pull up the

bobbin thread before starting to sew, pull up

the thread according to the procedure in

"Pulling up the bobbin thread" (page 31).

● Be sure to hold down the bobbin with

your finger and unroll the bobbin thread

correctly, otherwise the thread may break

or the thread tension will be incorrect.

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 23 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

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

Upper Threading

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

described.

CAUTION

Memo

z The order that the machine should be

threaded is indicated by a solid line on the

sewing machine. Be sure to thread the

machine as indicated.

Threading the upper thread

Turn on the sewing machine.

Raise the presser foot lever.

a Presser foot lever

X The presser foot is raised.

• If the presser foot is not raised, the sewing

machine cannot be threaded correctly.

● 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.

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 24 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

Upper Threading 25

Press (Needle position button) once or

twice to raise the needle.

a Needle position button

• If the needle is not correctly raised, the

sewing machine cannot be threaded. Check

that the mark on the balance wheel is facing

up as shown in the illustration below. If the

balance wheel is not in this position, be sure

to press the needle position button to raise

the needle before using the needle threader.

a Mark on balance wheel

Lift open the upper cover.

Remove the spool cap that is inserted onto the

spool pin.

a Spool pin

b Spool cap

Place the spool for the upper thread onto the

spool pin.

Slide the spool onto the pin so that the spool is

horizontal and the thread unrolls from the

bottom front of the spool.

• If the spool is not positioned so that the

thread unrolls correctly, the thread may

become tangled around the spool pin.

Slide the spool cap onto the spool pin.

With the rounded side of the spool cap

positioned toward the left, slide the spool cap

onto the spool pin as far as possible until the

right side of the spool touches the right end of

the spool pin.

• Three spool cap sizes are available (large,

medium and small). Use the spool cap with a

diameter that is slightly larger than the

diameter of the spool. The medium-sized

spool cap is already on the spool pin when

the sewing machine is purchased.

a Spool cap (large)

b Spool cap (medium)

c Spool

• When using a spool of cross-wound thread,

install the small spool cap with some space

between the cap and the spool.

a Spool

b Gap

c Spool cap (small)

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 25 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

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

CAUTION

While holding the spool with your right hand,

pull the thread with your left hand, and then

pass the thread behind the thread guide cover

to the front.

a Thread guide cover

Pass the thread under the thread guide plate

from the right.

a Thread guide plate

While using your right hand to hold the thread

passed under the thread guide plate taut, pass

the thread through the guides in the order (up

→ left → down → up → down) shown.

a Shutter

The following diagram shows the shutter

position when the presser foot is lowered. Since

the shutter is closed when the presser foot is

lowered, the machine cannot be threaded. Be

sure to raise the presser foot so that the shutter

is open in order to thread the machine.

a Shutter

Pass the thread through the thread hook at the

base of the needle bar.

a Needle bar thread hook

Next, use the needle threader to thread the

needle. Continue with the procedure in

"Threading the needle" (on the next page).

● 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.

● Three spool cap sizes are available (large,

medium and small), 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.

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 26 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

Upper Threading 27

Threading the needle

The needle threader can be used with needle size

75/11 through 100/16. For more details on the

needle, refer to "Needle types and their uses" (page

34).

With your left hand, hold the end of the thread

passed through the needle bar thread hook,

and then pass the thread through the thread

guide discs from the front to the back.

a Thread guide discs

b Pass to the back.

c Pass through the slit.

Cut the thread with the cutter on the left side

of the machine.

a Thread cutter

Lower the presser foot lever.

a Presser foot lever

X The presser foot is lowered.

Lower the needle threader lever until it clicks.

a Needle threader lever

X The thread is passed through the eye of the

needle.

Release the needle threader lever.

Carefully pull on the loop of thread passed

through the eye of the needle to pull out the

end of the thread.

Raise the presser foot lever, pass the thread

through the presser foot, and then pull out

about 5 cm (2 inch) of thread toward the rear

of the machine.

a 5 cm (2 inch)

X The upper threading is finished.

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 27 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

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

Now that the upper threading and the lower

threading are finished, you are ready to begin

sewing.

Note

z If the needle is not raised, the needle

threader cannot thread the needle. Be sure

to press the needle position button to raise

the needle before using the needle threader.

z If the twin needle is installed, the needle

threader cannot be used. For details, refer to

"Using the twin needle" (at the right).

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 extra

spool pin and the spool cap.

For details on the stitches that can be sewn with the

twin needle, refer to "Stitch Settings" (page 132).

CAUTION

Install the twin needle.

• For details on installing a needle, refer to

"Replacing the needle" (page 35).

Thread the upper thread for the left needle

eye.

• For details, refer to steps

a through k of

"Threading the upper thread" (page 24).

Manually thread the left needle with the upper

thread.

Pass the thread through the eye of the needle

from the front.

• The needle threader cannot be used with the

twin needle. If the needle threader is used

with the twin needle, the sewing machine

may be damaged.

● Only use the twin needle (part code:

X59296-051). 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.

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 28 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

Upper Threading 29

Insert the extra spool pin onto the bobbin

winder shaft.

Insert the extra spool pin so that it is

perpendicular to the bobbin winder shaft.

a Bobbin winder shaft

Swing down the spool pin so that it is

horizontal.

Place the upper thread spool for the needle on

the right side onto the extra spool pin, and

then secure it with the spool cap.

The thread should unroll from the top front of

the spool.

a Spool cap

b Spool

Thread the upper thread in the same way that

the upper thread for the left side was threaded.

a Thread guide cover

• For details, refer to step h through j of

"Threading the upper thread" (page 24).

Without passing the thread through the needle

bar thread hook, manually thread the right

needle.

Pass the thread through the eye of the needle

from the front.

• The needle threader cannot be used with the

twin needle. If the needle threader is used

with the twin needle, the sewing machine

may be damaged.

Attach zigzag foot "J".

• For details on changing the presser foot, refer

to "Replacing the presser foot" (page 37).

CAUTION

Turn on the sewing machine.

X The LCD comes on.

Press (Settings key) in the operation panel.

X The settings screen appears.

Press , , and (Arrow keys) until

is selected.

● When using the twin needle, be sure to

attach zigzag foot "J", otherwise the

needle may break or the machine may be

damaged.

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 29 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

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

Press (OK key).

X The screen for selecting the twin needle

appears.

Press to select .

To return to , press .

X The twin needle can now be used.

Press (OK key).

X The initial stitch screen appears again, and

appears in the lower-left corner of the

screen.

• Even after the sewing machine is turned off,

the twin needle setting is not cancelled.

CAUTION

Select a stitch.

• For details on selecting a stitch, refer to

"Selecting stitching" (page 66).

• For details on the stitches that can be sewn

with the twin needle, refer to "Stitch Settings"

(page 132).

CAUTION

Start sewing.

• For details on starting to sew, refer to

"Starting to sew" (page 48).

X 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.

● When using the twin needle, be sure to

select an appropriate stitch, otherwise the

needle may break or the machine may be

damaged.

● 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.

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 30 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

Upper Threading 31

Using thread that winds off

quickly

When using thread that winds off quickly, such as

transparent nylon thread or metallic thread, place the

enclosed spool net over the spool before placing the

spool of thread onto the spool pin.

If the spool net is too long, fold it to fit the size of the

spool.

a Spool net

b Spool

c Spool cap

d Spool pin

Pulling up the bobbin thread

When making gathers or before free-motion quilting,

first pull up the bobbin thread as described below.

Insert the bobbin into the shuttle.

• Refer to steps

a through e of "Installing the

bobbin" (page 22).

Pass the bobbin thread through the slot.

Do not cut the thread with the cutter.

While lightly holding the upper thread with

your left hand, press (Needle position

button) twice to raise the needle.

a Needle position button

X The bobbin thread is looped around the

upper thread and can be pulled up.

Carefully pull the upper thread upward to pull

out the end of the bobbin thread.

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 31 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

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

Pull out about 5 cm (2 inch) of the bobbin

thread under the presser foot toward the rear

of the machine.

Reattach the bobbin cover.

Insert the tab in the lower-left corner of the

bobbin cover, and then lightly press down on

the right side.

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 32 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

Replacing the Needle 33

Replacing the Needle

This section provides information on sewing machine needles.

Needle precautions

Be sure to observe the following precautions concerning the handling of the needle. Failure to observe these

precautions is extremely dangerous, for example, if the needle breaks and fragments are dispersed. Be sure to

read and carefully follow the instructions below.

CAUTION

● Only use home sewing machine needles. Use of any other needle may bend the needle or

damage the machine.

● Never use bent needles. Bent needles can easily break, possibly resulting in injuries.

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 33 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

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

Needle types and their uses

The sewing machine needle that should be used depends on the fabric and thread thickness. Refer to the

following table when choosing the thread and needle appropriate for the fabric that you wish to sew.

Memo

z The smaller the thread number, the thicker

the thread, and the larger the needle

number, the thicker the needle.

z Use the ball point needle when sewing on

stretch fabrics or fabrics where skipped

stitches easily occur.

z Use a 90/14 to 100/16 needle with

transparent nylon threads, regardless of the

fabric being sewn.

z A 75/11 needle is already installed when the

sewing machine is purchased.

CAUTION

Fabric Type/Application

Thread

Size of Needle

Type Size

Medium

weight

fabrics

Broadcloth Cotton thread

60–80

75/11–90/14

Taffeta Synthetic thread

Flannel,

Gabardine

Silk thread 50–80

Thin fabrics

Lawn Cotton thread

60–80

65/9–75/11

Georgette Synthetic thread

Challis, Satin Silk thread 50–80

Thick

fabrics

Denim Cotton thread 30–50

90/14–100/16

Corduroy Synthetic thread

Tweed Silk thread

Stretch

fabrics

Jersey

Thread for knits 50–60

Ball point needle

(golden colored)

75/11–90/14

Tricot

Easily frayed fabrics

Cotton thread

50–80 65/9–90/14Synthetic thread

Silk thread

For top-stitching

Synthetic thread

30 90/14–100/16

Silk thread

● The appropriate fabric, thread and needle

combinations are shown in the table

above. If the combination of the fabric,

thread and needle is not correct,

particularly when sewing thick fabrics

(such as denim) with thin needles (such as

65/9 to 75/11), the needle may bend or

break. In addition, the stitching may be

uneven or puckered or there may be

skipped stitches.

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 34 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

Replacing the Needle 35

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.

a Flat side

b Needle type marking

■ Correct needle

a Flat surface

■ Incorrect needle

If the distance between the needle and the flat

surface is not even, the needle is bent. Do not use

a bent needle.

a Flat surface

Replacing the needle

Replace the needle as described below. Use the

screwdriver and a needle that has been determined to

be straight according to the instructions in "Checking

the needle".

Press (Needle position button) once or

twice to raise the needle.

a Needle position button

Turn off the sewing machine.

CAUTION

Lower the presser foot lever.

a Presser foot lever

● Before replacing the needle, be sure to

turn off the sewing machine, otherwise

injuries may occur if the start/stop button

is accidentally pressed and the machine

starts sewing.

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

Hold the needle with your left hand, and then

use a screwdriver to turn the needle clamp

screw counterclockwise to remove the needle.

a Screwdriver

b Needle clamp screw

• Do not apply a strong force when loosening

or tightening the needle clamp screw,

otherwise certain parts of the sewing

machine may be damaged.

With the flat side of the needle toward the rear

of the machine, insert the needle until it

touches the needle stopper.

While holding the needle with your left hand,

use the screwdriver to tighten the needle

clamp screw.

Install the twin needle in the same way.

CAUTION

● Be sure to insert the needle until it

touches the needle stopper and securely

tighten the needle clamp screw with the

screwdriver, otherwise the needle may

break or damage may result.

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 36 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

Replacing the Presser Foot 37

Replacing the Presser Foot

The presser foot presses down on the fabric.

Presser foot precautions

Be sure to observe the following precautions

concerning the presser feet.

CAUTION

Replacing the presser foot

Replace the presser foot as described below.

For details on using the side cutter "S", refer to

"Sewing overcasting stitches using the side cutter"

(page 70).

Press (Needle position button) once or

twice to raise the needle.

a Needle position button

X The needle is raised.

Turn off the sewing machine.

CAUTION

Raise the presser foot lever.

a Presser foot lever

X The presser foot is raised.

● 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 sewing machine. Use of any other

presser foot may result in injuries or

damage to the machine.

● Before replacing the presser foot, be sure

to turn off the sewing machine, otherwise

injuries may occur if the start/stop button

is accidentally pressed and the machine

starts sewing.

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

Press the black button at the back of the

presser foot holder.

a Black button

b Presser foot holder

X The presser foot holder releases the presser

foot.

Place a different presser foot below the holder

so that the presser foot pin is aligned with the

notch in the holder.

Position the presser foot so the letter indicating

the presser foot type (A, G, I, J, M, N or R) is

positioned to be read.

a Presser foot holder

b Notch

c Pin

Slowly lower the presser foot lever so that the

presser foot pin snaps into the notch in the

presser foot holder.

a Presser foot lever

X The presser foot is attached.

Raise the presser foot lever to check that the

presser foot is securely attached.

Note

z 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

sewing machine, attach the correct presser

foot, and then select the desired stitch again.

z For details on the presser foot that should be

used with the selected stitch, refer to "Stitch

Settings" (page 132).

Buttonhole foot "A"

Overcasting foot "G"

Zigzag foot "J"

Button fitting foot "M"

Monogramming foot "N"

Blind stitch foot "R"

Side cutter "S"

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 38 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

Replacing the Presser Foot 39

Adjusting the pressure of the

presser foot

The amount of pressure that the presser foot applies

to the fabric can be adjusted.

Lower the presser foot lever.

a Presser foot lever

Turn the presser foot dial at the back of the

sewing machine.

The scale on the dial indicates the range from 1

(weak) to 4 (strong). Turn the dial to the right

(smaller number) to decrease the pressure. Turn

the dial to the left (larger number) to increase

the pressure.

When you are finished sewing, reset the dial to

3 (standard).

Removing the presser foot

holder

Remove the presser foot holder when cleaning the

sewing machine or when installing a presser foot that

does not use the presser foot holder, such as the

quilting foot. Use the screwdriver to remove the

presser foot holder.

■ Removing the presser foot holder

Remove the presser foot.

• For details, refer to "Replacing the presser

foot" (page 37).

Use the screwdriver to loosen the presser foot

holder screw.

a Screwdriver

■ Attaching the presser foot holder

Align the presser foot holder with the lower-

left side of the presser bar.

Hold the presser foot holder in place with your

right hand, and then tighten the screw using

the screwdriver in your left hand.

a Screwdriver

Strong

Weak

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

Note

z If the presser foot holder is not correctly

installed, the thread tension will be

incorrect.

Using the walking foot

With the walking foot, both pieces of fabric are fed

evenly by the feed dogs and the teeth on the presser

foot. This is useful when sewing fabrics that are hard

to feed such as vinyl and leather and when sewing

fabrics that easily slip such as velvets or when

quilting.

Use the screwdriver to attach the walking foot.

■ Attaching the walking foot

Remove the presser foot holder.

• For details, refer to "Removing the presser

foot holder" (on the previous page).

Hook the connecting fork of the walking foot

onto the needle clamp screw.

a Connecting fork

b Needle clamp screw

Lower the presser foot lever, insert the presser

foot holder screw, and then tighten the screw

with the screwdriver.

a Presser foot holder screw

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 40 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

Replacing the Presser Foot 41

CAUTION

Note

z When sewing with the walking foot, sew at a

speed between slow and medium.

■ Removing the walking foot

Press (Needle position button) once or

twice to raise the needle.

a Needle position button

X The needle is raised.

Turn off the sewing machine.

Raise the presser foot lever.

a Presser foot lever

X The presser foot is raised.

With a screwdriver, loosen the presser foot

holder screw, and then remove the walking

foot.

Attach the presser foot holder.

• For details, refer to "Removing the presser

foot holder" (page 39).

Memo

z Only the straight stitch (with reinforcement

stitching) and the zigzag stitch can be used

with the walking foot. For details on the

stitches, refer to "Stitch Settings" (page 132).

● Be sure to securely tighten the screw with

the screwdriver, otherwise the needle

may touch the presser foot, causing it to

bend or break.

● Before starting to sew, slowly turn the

balance wheel toward you and check that

the needle does not touch the presser

foot. If the needle hits the presser foot,

the needle may bend or break.

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

Sewing Cylindrical or Large Pieces

When sewing cylindrical or large pieces of fabric, remove the flat bed attachment.

Stitching cylindrical pieces

Removing the flat bed attachment makes it easier to

sew cylindrical pieces such as cuffs and pant legs.

Pull the flat bed attachment off to the left.

X With the flat bed attachment removed, free-

arm sewing is possible.

Slide the part that you wish to sew onto the

arm, and then sew from the top.

When you are finished with free-arm sewing,

install the flat bed attachment back in its

original position.

Sewing large pieces of fabric

The optional wide table makes sewing large pieces of

fabric easier.

Open up the legs at the bottom of the wide

table.

Pull out the four legs until they snap into place.

Pull the flat bed attachment off to the left.

X With the flat bed attachment removed, free-

arm sewing is possible.

Install the wide table.

Keeping the wide table level, fully slide it into

place.

Note

z The optional wide table is available through

your brother retailer.

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 42 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

Sewing Cylindrical or Large Pieces 43

Turn the screw at the bottom of the legs to

adjust their height.

CAUTION

When you are finished using the wide table,

remove it.

While slightly lifting up the wide table, pull it

off to the left.

Install the flat bed attachment back in its

original position.

Memo

z With the legs folded up, the wide table can

be stored attached to the hard case.

z The knee lifter can be stored attached to the

bottom of the wide table.

● Do not move the sewing machine while

the wide table is attached, otherwise

damage or injuries may occur.

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 43 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 44 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

2 SEWING BASICS

The necessary preparations for sewing are described in this chapter.

Sewing.....................................................................................................................46

Adjusting the Thread Tension..................................................................................53

Adjusting the Stitch Width and Length....................................................................55

Useful Functions......................................................................................................57

Useful Sewing Tips ..................................................................................................62

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SEWING BASICS — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —

Sewing

Basic sewing operations are described below.

Before operating the sewing machine, read the following precautions.

CAUTION

General sewing procedure

Follow the basic procedures below to sew.

↓

● 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 balance wheel, 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.

1 Turn on the machine.

Turn on the sewing machine.For details on turning on the machine, refer

to "Turning on the machine" (page 11).

2 Select the stitch

Select the stitch appropriate for the area to be sewn.For details on

selecting a stitch, refer to "Selecting stitching" (page 66).

3 Attach the presser foot.

Attach the presser foot appropriate for the stitch.For details on replacing

the presser foot, refer to "Replacing the presser foot" (page 37).

4 Position the fabric

Place the area to be sewn under the presser foot. Be sure that the fabric

pieces are sewn in the correct order and that the right and wrong sides of

the fabric are aligned correctly.For details on positioning the fabric, refer

to "Positioning the fabric" (page 47).

5 Start sewing

Start sewing.For details on starting to sew, refer to "Starting to sew" (page

48).

6 Cut the thread

Cut the thread at the end of sewing. The thread may also be cut

automatically.For details on cutting the thread, refer to "Cutting the

thread" (page 51).

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 46 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

Sewing 47

Positioning the fabric

Be sure that the fabric pieces are sewn in the correct

order and that the right and wrong sides of the fabric

are aligned correctly.

Turn on the sewing machine.

The straight stitch (left needle position) is

automatically selected.

Press (Needle position button) once or

twice to raise the needle.

a Needle position button

Place the fabric under the presser foot.

• If the seam allowance is positioned on the

right side, sewing in a straight line is easier

and the extra fabric does not get in the way.

While holding the end of the thread and the

fabric with your left hand, turn the balance

wheel toward you with your right hand to

lower the needle to the starting point of the

stitching.

Lower the presser foot lever.

a Presser foot lever

X The fabric is now positioned to be sewn.

Memo

z To adjust the pressure that the presser foot

applies to the fabric, refer to "Adjusting the

pressure of the presser foot" (page 39).

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SEWING BASICS — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —

Starting to sew

Once you are ready to start sewing, you can start the

sewing machine. The sewing speed can be adjusted

using either the operation buttons or the foot

controller.

Note

Important:

z When the foot controller is plugged in, the

start/stop button cannot be used to start or

stop sewing.

■ Using the operation buttons

Sewing can be started and stopped using the

operation button (Start/stop button).

Slide the sewing speed controller to the left or

right to select the desired sewing speed.

Slide the sewing speed controller to the left to

sew at a slower speed, or slide the speed

controller to the right to sew at a faster speed.

a Sewing speed controller

Press (Start/stop button) once.

a Start/stop button

X The machine starts sewing.

• If you continue to hold the start/stop button

pressed immediately after the sewing starts,

the machine will sew at a slow speed.

When the end of the stitching is reached, press

(Start/stop button) once.

X The machine stops sewing with the needle

down (in the fabric).

When you are finished sewing, raise the

needle, and then cut the threads.

X For details, refer to "Cutting the thread" (page

51).

■ Using the foot controller

Sewing can be started and stopped using the foot

controller.

Turn off the sewing machine.

When connecting the foot controller, be sure to

turn off the sewing machine in order to prevent

the machine from accidentally being started.

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 48 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

Sewing 49

Insert the foot controller plug into its jack on

the side of the sewing machine.

a Foot controller jack

Note

(For U.S.A. only)

z Foot controller: Model N5V This foot

controller can be used on this machine

model NX-600.

Turn on the sewing machine.

Slide the sewing speed controller to the left or

right to select the desired sewing speed.

Slide the sewing speed controller to the left to

sew at a slower speed, or slide the speed

controller to the right to sew at a faster speed.

a Sewing speed controller

• The speed set using the sewing speed

controller is the foot controller’s maximum

sewing speed.

Once you are ready to start sewing, slowly

press down on the foot controller.

Pressing down on the foot controller increases

the sewing speed; releasing the pressure on the

foot controller decreases the sewing speed.

• Slowly press down on the foot controller.

Pressing it down hard starts sewing too

quickly.

X The machine starts sewing.

When the end of the stitching is reached,

completely release the foot controller.

X The machine stops sewing with the needle

lowered (in the fabric).

When you are finished sewing, raise the

needle, and then cut the threads.

• For details, refer to "Cutting the thread" (page

51).

Memo

z When the foot controller is plugged in, the

start/stop button cannot be used to start or

stop sewing.

z When sewing is stopped, the needle remains

lowered (in the fabric). The machine can be

set so that the needle will stay up when

sewing is stopped. For details on setting the

machine so that the needle stays up when

sewing is stopped, refer to "Changing the

needle stop position" (page 16).

CAUTION

● Do not allow thread or dust to

accumulate in the foot controller,

otherwise a fire or an electric shock may

occur.

● Do not place objects on the foot

controller, otherwise damage to the

machine or injuries may occur.

● If the machine is not to be used for a long

period of time, unplug the foot controller,

otherwise a fire or an electric shock may

occur.

Slower

Faster

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SEWING BASICS — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —

Securing the stitching

When sewing with the straight stitch, for example, at

the end of an opening or where seams do not

overlap, use reverse stitching or reinforcement

stitching to secure the end of the thread.

Lower the needle into the fabric at the

beginning of the stitching, and then lower the

presser foot lever.

Press (Start/stop button) or press down on

the foot controller.

At this time, if the start/stop button is held

pressed, the machine sews at a low speed.

a Start/stop button

• For details, refer to "Starting to sew" (page

48).

X The machine starts sewing.

After sewing 3 to 5 stitches, press

(Reverse/reinforcement stitch button).

Keep the reverse/reinforcement stitch button

held down until you reach the beginning of the

stitching.

a Reverse/reinforcement stitch button

X While the reverse/reinforcement stitch

button is held pressed, reverse stitches are

sewn.

After sewing back to the beginning of the

stitching, release the reverse/reinforcement

stitch button.

X The machine stops sewing.

Press (Start/stop button), or press down

on the foot controller.

X The machine starts sewing in the normal

sewing direction

When the end of the stitching is reached, press

(Reverse/reinforcement stitch button).

Keep the reverse/reinforcement stitch button

held down until 3 to 5 reverse stitches are

sewn.

X While the reverse/reinforcement stitch

button is depressed, reverse stitches are

sewn.

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 50 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

Sewing 51

After 3 to 5 reverse stitches have been sewn,

release (Reverse/reinforcement stitch

button).

X The machine stops sewing.

Press (Start/stop button), or press down

on the foot controller.

At this time, if the start/stop button is held

pressed, the machine sews at a low speed.

X The machine starts sewing in the normal

sewing direction.

After sewing to the end of the stitching, the

sewing machine stops.

Release the start/stop button or foot controller.

a Beginning of stitching

b End of stitching

■ Sewing reinforcement stitches

When sewing stitches other than straight or

zigzag stitches that are secured with reverse

stitching, pressing (Reverse/reinforcement

stitch button) sews reinforcement stitches, 3 to 5

stitches on top of each other.

a Reverse stitching

b Reinforcement stitching

Memo

z Whether reverse stitches or reinforcement

stitches are sewn depends on the stitch that

is selected. For details, refer to "Stitch

Settings" (page 132).

Cutting the thread

When you have finished sewing, cut the threads. The

threads can be cut in either of two ways.

■ Using the thread cutter button

When you wish to finish the stitching, press

(Thread cutter button) once.

a Thread cutter button

X The threads are cut and the needle is raised.

Raise the presser foot lever.

a Presser foot lever

CAUTION

Note

z Do not press the thread cutter button if there

is no fabric under the presser foot or while

the machine is sewing, otherwise damage to

the machine may occur.

● Do not press the thread cutter button

after the threads have already been cut,

otherwise the needle may break, the

threads may become tangled or damage

to the machine may occur.

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SEWING BASICS — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —

Memo

z The machine can be set so that the threads

will be cut when sewing is finished. For

details on setting the machine so that the

threads are cut automatically, refer to

"Automatically cutting the thread" (page 58).

■ Using the manual thread cutter

When sewing with thread thicker than #30, nylon

or metallic threads, or other special threads, use

the thread cutter on the side of the machine to cut

the threads.

When you wish to finish the stitching and the

sewing machine is stopped, press (Needle

position button) once to raise the needle.

a Needle position button

X The needle is raised.

Raise the presser foot lever.

a Presser foot lever

Pull the fabric to the left side of the machine,

and then pass the threads through the thread

cutter to cut them.

a Thread cutter

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 52 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

Adjusting the Thread Tension 53

Adjusting the Thread Tension

The tensions of the upper thread and of the bobbin thread (thread tension) should be adjusted so that they

are equal.

Thread tension

If the thread and needle combination is correct for

the type of fabric being sewn (according to "Needle

types and their uses" on page 34), the thread tension

will automatically be adjusted to the appropriate

setting. However, if the preset thread tension does not

give the desired result or if you are sewing with

special thread or on special fabric, adjust the tension

of the upper thread to increase or decrease it.

■ 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.

a Wrong side of fabric

b Right side of fabric

c Upper thread

d 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.

a Wrong side of fabric

b Right side of fabric

c Upper thread

d Bobbin thread

e The bobbin thread is visible from the right side of

the fabric.

■ Upper thread is too loose

If the upper thread is visible from the wrong side

of the fabric, the upper thread is too loose.

a Wrong side of fabric

b Right side of fabric

c Upper thread

d Bobbin thread

e The upper thread is visible from the wrong side of

the fabric.

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SEWING BASICS — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —

Changing the tension of the

upper thread

The tension of the upper thread can be changed using

the operation panel LCD and keys.

Turn on the sewing machine.

X The LCD comes on.

Select a stitch.

X A screen containing settings for the selected

stitch appears.

• For details on selecting a stitch, refer to

"Selecting stitching" (page 66).

• Immediately after the stitch is selected, the

standard settings (highlighted) appear.

Press (Settings key) in the operation panel.

X The settings screen appears.

Check that is selected, and then press

(OK key).

X The screen for changing the thread tension

appears.

To decrease the thread tension, press (-). To

increase the thread tension, press (+).

X The tension of the upper thread is changed.

• If the setting is changed, the highlighting on

the setting is erased.

• Now you can begin sewing. Sew trial stitches

to check the thread tension, and then change

the setting if necessary.

Press (OK key).

X The initial stitch screen appears again.

Memo

z To reset the thread tension to its standard

setting, select the highlighted setting.

z The thread tension can be adjusted using a

more simple procedure. For details, refer to

"Easily adjusting the thread tension" (page

147).

z The settings can be saved so that they will

always be specified each time the utility

stitch is selected. For details, refer to "Saving

stitch settings" (page 60).

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 54 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

Adjusting the Stitch Width and Length 55

Adjusting the Stitch Width and Length

The zigzag width (pattern width) and stitch length of utility stitches can be adjusted. Normally, when a

stitch is selected, the appropriate width and length are automatically selected. For details on the range of

values within which the width and length can be set, refer to "Stitch Settings" (page 132).

Adjusting the stitch width

The stitch width can be adjusted with the arrow keys.

Turn on the sewing machine.

X The LCD comes on.

Select a stitch.

X A screen containing settings for the selected

stitch appears.

• For details on selecting a stitch, refer to

"Selecting stitching" (page 66).

• Immediately after the stitch is selected, the

standard settings (highlighted) appear.

To make the stitch width narrower, press

(–). To make the stitch width wider, press

(+).

X The stitch width is changed.

• If the setting is changed, the highlighted

value is erased.

Memo

z To reset the stitch width to its standard

setting, select the same stitch again or

change the setting to the highlighted value.

z If the straight stitch (left needle position 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.

z The settings can be saved so that they will

always be specified each time the utility

stitch is selected. For details, refer to "Saving

stitch settings" (page 60).

z The sewing machine can be set so that the

stitch width can easily be changed with the

sewing speed controller. For details, refer to

"Satin stitching" (page 98).

CAUTION

–

● After adjusting the stitch width, slowly

turn the balance wheel toward you and

check that the needle does not touch the

presser foot. If the needle hits the presser

foot, the needle may bend or break.

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SEWING BASICS — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —

Adjusting the stitch length

The stitch length can be adjusted with the arrow keys.

Turn on the sewing machine.

X The LCD comes on.

Select a stitch.

X A screen containing settings for the selected

stitch appears.

• For details on selecting a stitch, refer to

"Selecting stitching" (page 66).

• Immediately after the stitch is selected, the

standard settings (highlighted) appear.

To make the stitch length shorter, press (–).

To make the stitch length longer, press (+).

X The stitch length is changed.

• If the setting is changed, the highlighted

value is erased.

Memo

z To reset the stitch length to its standard

setting, select the same stitch again or

change the setting to the highlighted value.

z The settings can be saved so that they will

always be specified each time the utility

stitch is selected. For details, refer to "Saving

stitch settings" (page 60).

CAUTION

–

● If the stitches are bunched together,

increase the stitch length. Continuing to

sew with the stitches bunched together

may result in the needle bending or

breaking.

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 56 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

Useful Functions 57

Useful Functions

Functions useful in improving sewing efficiency are described below.

Automatically sewing reverse/

reinforcement stitches

The sewing machine can be set to automatically sew

reverse or reinforcement stitches at the beginning and

end of the stitching.Whether reverse stitches or

reinforcement stitches are sewn depends on the stitch

that is selected. For details, refer to "Stitch Settings"

(page 132).

Turn on the sewing machine.

X The LCD comes on.

Select a stitch.

• For details on selecting a stitch, refer to

"Selecting stitching" (page 66).

Press (Settings key) in the operation panel.

X The settings screen appears.

Press , , and (Arrow keys) until

is selected.

Press (OK key).

X The screen for specifying automatic reverse/

reinforcement stitching appears.

Press to select .

To return to , press .

X The machine is now set to automatically sew

reverse/reinforcement stitches.

Press (OK key).

X The initial stitch screen appears again, and

appears in the lower-left corner of the

screen.

• When the sewing machine is turned off, the

automatic reverse/reinforcement stitching

setting is cancelled.

Position the fabric under the presser foot, and

then press (Start/stop button) once.

a Start/stop button

X After reverse/reinforcement stitches are

sewn, the machine starts sewing.

After reaching the end of the stitching, press

(Reverse/reinforcement stitch button)

once.

This step is not necessary if a stitch such as

those for sewing buttonholes and bar tacks is

selected where reinforcement stitches are

automatically sewn.

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 57 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

SEWING BASICS — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —

a Reverse/reinforcement stitch button

X After reverse/reinforcement stitches are

sewn, the sewing machine stops.

Memo

z Reverse/reinforcement stitches will not be

sewn if the start/stop button is pressed at the

end of the stitching. Be sure to press the

reverse/reinforcement stitch button at the

end of the stitching.

Automatically cutting the

thread

The sewing 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. This setting is convenient if a

stitch for sewing buttonholes or bar tacks is selected.

Turn on the sewing machine.

X The LCD comes on.

Select a stitch.

• For details on selecting a stitch, refer to

"Selecting stitching" (page 66).

Press (Settings key) in the operation panel.

X The settings screen appears.

Press , , and (Arrow keys) until

is selected.

Press (OK key).

X The screen for specifying automatic thread-

cutting appears.

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 58 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

Useful Functions 59

Press to select .

To return to , press .

X The machine is now set for programmed

thread-cutting.

Press (OK key).

X The initial stitch screen appears again, and

appears in the lower-left corner of the

screen.

• When the sewing machine is turned off, the

programmed thread-cutting setting is

cancelled.

Position the fabric under the presser foot, and

then press (Start/stop button) once.

a Start/stop button

X After reverse/reinforcement stitches are

sewn, the machine starts sewing.

After reaching the end of the stitching, press

(Reverse/reinforcement stitch button)

once.

This step is not necessary if a stitch such as

those for sewing buttonholes and bar tacks is

selected where reinforcement stitches are

automatically sewn.

a Reverse/reinforcement stitch button

X After reverse/reinforcement stitches are

sewn, the sewing machine stops and cuts the

thread

Memo

z Reverse/reinforcement stitches will not be

sewn and the thread will not automatically

be cut if the start/stop button is pressed at the

end of the stitching. Be sure to press the

reverse/reinforcement stitch button at the

end of the stitching.

The thread is cut here.

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 59 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

SEWING BASICS — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —

Saving stitch settings

Adjusted thread tension and stitch width and length

settings can be saved so that they will be specified

each time the stitch is selected. The various settings

can be saved for each utility stitch.

Select the stitch, and then adjust the thread

tension and stitch width and length.

To adjust the stitch width, press (–) and

(+). To adjust the stitch length, press (–) and

(+).

• For details on selecting a stitch, refer to

"Selecting stitching" (page 66).

• For details on changing the thread tension,

refer to "Changing the tension of the upper

thread" (page 54).

X The thread tension and stitch width and

length are changed.

Press (Settings key) in the operation panel.

X The settings screen appears.

Press , , and (Arrow keys) until

is selected.

Press (OK key).

X The screen for saving the settings appears.

Check that the is selected, and then press

(OK key).

X The settings for the stitch width and length

are saved.

• The next time that the stitch is selected, the

saved settings are the first ones that are

displayed.

• To clear the saved settings and return the

thread tension and stitch width and length to

their default settings, press so that is

selected , and then press (OK key).

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 60 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

Useful Functions 61

Hands-free raising and lifting

of the presser foot

Using the knee lifter, you can raise and lower the

presser foot with your knee, leaving both hands free

to handle the fabric.

■ Installing the knee lifter

Turn off the sewing machine.

Insert the knee lifter into its jack on the front

of the sewing machine in the lower-right

corner.

Align the tabs on the knee lifter with the

notches in the jack, and then insert the knee

lifter as far as possible.

Note

z If the knee lifter is not fully inserted into its

jack, it may fall out while the sewing

machine is operating.

■ Using the knee lifter

Stop the sewing machine.

• Do not use the knee lifter while the sewing

machine is operating.

With your knee, press the knee lifter to the

right.

Keep the knee lifter pressed to the right.

X The presser foot is raised.

Release the knee lifter.

X The presser foot is lowered.

CAUTION

● While sewing, keep your knee away from

the knee lifter. If the knee lifter is pressed

while the sewing machine is operating,

the needle may break or the machine may

be damaged.

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 61 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

SEWING BASICS — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —

Useful Sewing Tips

Various ways to achieve better results for your sewing projects are described below. Refer to these tips

when sewing your project.

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 thread

tension and 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

When the stitching reaches a corner, stop the

sewing machine.

Leave the needle lowered (in the fabric). If the

needle remained up when the machine stopped

sewing, press (Needle position button) to

lower the needle.

Raise the presser foot lever, and then turn the

fabric.

Turn the fabric using the needle as a pivot.

Lower the presser foot lever and continue

sewing.

Sewing curves

Stop sewing, and then slightly change the sewing

direction to sew around the curve. For details on

sewing with an even seam allowance, refer to

"Sewing an even seam allowance" (page 64).

When sewing along a curve while using a zigzag

stitch, select a shorter stitch length in order to obtain

a finer stitch.

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 62 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

Useful Sewing Tips 63

Sewing thick fabrics

■ If the fabric does not fit under the presser foot

If the fabric does not fit easily under the presser

foot, raise the presser foot lever even higher to

bring the presser foot to its highest position.

■ If thick seams are being sewn and the fabric does

not feed at the beginning of stitching

Zigzag foot "J" is equipped with a feature that

keeps the presser foot level.

a Sewing direction

When you encounter a seam that is too thick

to feed under the foot, raise the presser foot

lever.

Press the black button on the left side of the

foot. Keep the button held in and lower the

presser foot.

Release the button. The foot will lock in place

level with the seam, allowing the fabric to

feed.

X Once the trouble spot has been passed, the

foot will return to its normal position.

CAUTION

Sewing thin fabrics

When sewing thin fabrics, the stitching may become

misaligned or the fabric may not feed correctly. If this

occurs, place thin paper or stabilizer material under

the fabric and sew it together with the fabric. When

you have finished sewing, tear off any excess paper.

a Stabilizer material or paper

Sewing stretch fabrics

First, baste the pieces of fabric together, and then sew

without stretching the fabric.

a Basting

● 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.

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 63 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

SEWING BASICS — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —

Sewing leathers or vinyl

fabrics

When sewing the fabrics that may stick to the presser

foot such as leathers or coated fabrics, change the

presser foot to the non stick foot.

a Leather

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.

a Seam

b Presser foot

■ Aligning the fabric with the stitch guide foot

Sew while keeping the right edge of the fabric

aligned with a desired position of markings on the

stitch guide foot.

a Seam

b Stitch guide foot

c 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 in 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).

a Seam

b Presser foot

c Centimeters

d Inches

e Needle plate

f 16 mm (5/8 inch)

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 64 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

3 UTILITY STITCHES

The various stitches and their applications are described in this chapter.

Selecting Stitching ...................................................................................................66

Overcasting Stitches................................................................................................68

Basic Stitching.........................................................................................................72

Blind Hem Stitching ................................................................................................74

Buttonhole Stitching................................................................................................76

Zipper Insertion.......................................................................................................83

Zipper/piping Insertion ...........................................................................................88

Sewing Stretch Fabrics and Elastic Tape..................................................................90

Appliqué, Patchwork and Quilt Stitching ................................................................92

Reinforcement Stitching ........................................................................................100

Eyelet Stitching......................................................................................................104

Horizontal Stitching ..............................................................................................105

Decorative Stitching..............................................................................................107

Sewing the Various Built-In Decorative Patterns...................................................115

Designing a Pattern ...............................................................................................126

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 65 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

UTILITY STITCHES — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —

Selecting Stitching

You can select any of the various types of stitching available.

Stitch types

A total of 8 groups of stitch types (utility stitches,

decorative stitches, satin stitches, cross-stitches,

decorative satin stitches and 3 types of character

stitches) are available.

For details on the types of stitches available, refer to

"Stitch Settings" (page 132).

■ Utility stitches

There are 71 utility stitches, including straight

stitches, overcasting stitches and buttonhole

stitches.

■ Decorative stitches

There are 31 decorative stitches, including hearts,

leaves and flowers.

■ Satin stitches

There are 18 satin stitches.

■ Cross-stitches

There are 10 types of cross-stitches.

■ Decorative satin stitches

There are 10 decorative satin stitches.

■ Character stitch—Gothic font

There are 97 characters, including letters,

symbols and numbers, in the Gothic font.

■ Character stitch—Script font

There are 97 characters, including letters,

symbols and numbers, in the Script font.

■ Character stitch—Outline style

There are 97 characters, including letters,

symbols and numbers, in the outline style.

Selecting stitching

Using the operation panel keys, select the desired

stitch from those shown in the LCD. Twelve of the

most often used utility stitches can quickly be

selected with the stitch keys.

When the sewing machine is turned on, the straight

stitch (left needle position) is selected.

Determine the stitch that you wish to use.

• Refer to "Stitch types" (at the left).

Determine which presser foot should be used

with the selected stitch.

The presser feet are stored in the accessory

compartment.

• For details on the stitches that can be sewn

with the twin needle, refer to "Stitch Settings"

(page 132).

Attach the presser foot.

• For details, refer to "Replacing the presser

foot" (page 37).

Turn on the sewing machine.

X The straight stitch (left needle position) is

shown selected in the LCD.

Press (Stitch selection key) in the operation

panel.

To select a stitch using the stitch keys, press the

key of the desired stitch.

Continue with step

X The screen containing the various types of

stitches appears.

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 66 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

Selecting Stitching 67

Press , , and (Arrow keys) until the

type of stitch that you wish to use is selected.

Press (OK key).

X The screen containing the various stitches in

the selected stitch type appears.

■ Understanding the screen

a Selected stitch type

b Number of stitches in the selected stitch type

• To select a different stitch type, press

(Back key).

Press , , and (Arrow keys) until the

stitch that you wish to use is selected.

Press to return to the previous screen. Press

to display the next screen.

Press (OK key).

X The stitch is selected.

If necessary, specify the setting for automatic

reverse/reinforcement stitching and adjust the

stitch length, etc.

• For details on sewing with each of the utility

stitches, refer to the following pages.

Note

z 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

sewing machine, attach the correct presser

foot, and then select the desired stitch again.

Memo

z For details on adjusting the stitch width and

length, refer to "Adjusting the Stitch Width

and Length" (page 55).

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 67 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

UTILITY STITCHES — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —

Overcasting Stitches

Sew overcasting stitches along the edges of cut fabric to prevent them from fraying. Fifteen stitches are

available for overcasting. The procedure for sewing overcasting stitch is explained according to the

presser foot that is used.

Sewing overcasting stitches using overcasting foot "G"

Three stitches can be used to sew overcasting with overcasting foot "G".

Attach overcasting foot "G".

• For details, refer to "Replacing the presser

foot" (page 37).

Select a stitch.

• For details, refer to "Selecting stitching" (page

66).

Position the fabric with the edge of the fabric

against the guide of the presser foot, and then

lower the presser foot lever.

a Guide

Sew with the edge of the fabric against the

presser foot guide.

a Needle drop point

CAUTION

Stitch Name Pattern

Stitch

Key

Application

Stitch Width

[mm (inch.)]

Stitch Length

[mm (inch.)]

Presser

Foot

Auto Manual Auto Manual

Overcasting

stitch

Preventing fraying in

mediumweight and thin

fabrics

3.5

(1/8)

2.5–5.0

(3/32–3/16)

2.0

(1/16)

1.0–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

Preventing fraying in

thick fabrics and fabrics

that fray easily

5.0

(3/16)

2.5–5.0

(3/32–3/16)

2.5

(3/32)

1.0–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

–

5.0

(3/16)

3.5–5.0

(1/8–3/16)

2.5

(3/32)

1.0–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

● After adjusting the stitch width, slowly

turn the balance wheel toward you and

check that the needle does not touch the

presser foot. If the needle hits the presser

foot, the needle may bend or break.

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 68 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

Overcasting Stitches 69

Sewing overcasting stitches using zigzag foot "J"

Seven stitches can be used to sew overcasting stitches with zigzag foot "J".

Attach zigzag foot "J".

• For details, refer to "Replacing the presser

foot" (page 37).

Select a stitch.

• For details, refer to "Selecting stitching" (page

66).

Sew along the edge of the fabric with the

needle dropping off the edge at the right.

a Needle drop point

Memo

z For best results when sewing stretch fabrics,

decrease the pressure of the presser foot. For

details, refer to "Adjusting the pressure of the

presser foot" (page 39).

Stitch Name Pattern

Stitch

Key

Application

Stitch Width

[mm (inch.)]

Stitch Length

[mm (inch.)]

Presser

Foot

Auto Manual Auto Manual

Zigzag stitch

(center

needle

position)

Preventing fraying

(center baseline/reverse

stitching)

3.5

(1/8)

0.0–7.0

(0–1/4)

1.4

(1/16)

0.0–4.0

(0–3/16)

Zigzag stitch

(right needle

position)

–

Preventing fraying (right

baseline/reinforcement

stitching)

3.5

(1/8)

2.5–5.0

(3/32–3/16)

1.4

(1/16)

0.3–4.0

(1/64–3/16)

2-point

zigzag stitch

–

Preventing fraying in

thick fabrics and stretch

fabrics

5.0

(3/16)

1.5–7.0

(1/16–1/4)

1.0

(1/16)

0.2–4.0

(1/64–3/16)

3-point

zigzag stitch

5.0

(3/16)

1.5–7.0

(1/16–1/4)

1.0

(1/16)

0.2–4.0

(1/64–3/16)

Overcasting

stitch

–

Preventing fraying in

stretch fabrics

5.0

(3/16)

0.0–7.0

(0–1/4)

2.5

(3/32)

0.5–4.0

(1/32–3/16)

–

Preventing fraying in

thick fabrics and stretch

fabrics

5.0

(3/16)

0.0–7.0

(0–1/4)

2.5

(3/32)

0.5–4.0

(1/32–3/16)

–

Preventing fraying in

stretch fabrics

4.0

(3/16)

0.0–7.0

(0–1/4)

4.0

(3/16)

1.0–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 69 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

UTILITY STITCHES — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —

Sewing overcasting stitches using the side cutter

Using the side cutter, seam allowances can be finished while the edge of the fabric is cut off. Five stitches can be

used to sew overcasting stitches with the side cutter.

Remove the presser foot.

• For details, refer to "Replacing the presser

foot" (page 37).

Lower the presser foot lever, and then

manually thread the needle.

• The needle threader cannot be used. If the

needle threader is used with the side cutter,

the sewing machine may be damaged.

Raise the presser foot lever.

Hook the connecting fork of the side cutter

onto the needle clamp screw.

a Connecting fork

b Needle clamp screw

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.

a Notch in presser foot holder

b Pin

X The side cutter is attached.

Stitch Name Pattern Application

Stitch Width

[mm (inch.)]

Stitch Length

[mm (inch.)]

Presser

Foot

Auto Manual Auto Manual

Overcasting

stitch

Sewing straight stitches while

cutting the fabric

0.0

(0)

0.0–2.5

(0–3/32)

2.5

(3/32)

0.2–5.0

(1/64–3/16)

Sewing zigzag stitches while

cutting the fabric

3.5

(1/8)

3.5–5.0

(1/8–3/16)

1.4

(1/16)

0.0–4.0

(0–3/16)

Preventing fraying in thin and

medium weight fabrics while

cutting the fabric

3.5

(1/8)

3.5–5.0

(1/8–3/16)

2.0

(1/16)

1.0–4.0

( 1/16–3/16)

Preventing fraying in thick

fabrics while cutting the fabric

5.0

(3/16)

3.5–5.0

(1/8–3/16)

2.5

(3/32)

1.0–4.0

( 1/16–3/16)

Preventing fraying in thick

fabrics while cutting the fabric

5.0

(3/16)

3.5–5.0

(1/8–3/16)

2.5

(3/32)

1.0–4.0

( 1/16–3/16)

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 70 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

Overcasting Stitches 71

Raise the presser foot lever to check that the

side cutter is securely attached.

Pass the upper thread under the side cutter,

and then pull it out toward the rear of the

sewing machine.

Select a stitch.

• For details, refer to "Selecting stitching" (page

66).

CAUTION

Make a cut of about 2 cm (1/16 inch) long in

the fabric at the beginning of the stitching.

a 2 cm (1/16 inch)

Position the fabric in the side cutter.

The cut in the fabric should be positioned over

the guide plate of the side cutter.

a Guide plate

• If the fabric is not positioned correctly, the

fabric will not be cut.

Lower the presser foot lever, and then start

sewing.

X 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).

a 5 mm (3/16 inch)

Memo

z The side cutter can cut as much as one layer

of 13-oz. denim.

z After using the side cutter, clean it by

removing any lint or dust.

z If the side cutter can no longer cut fabric,

use a rag to apply a small amount of oil to

the cutting edge of the cutter.

● After adjusting the stitch width, slowly

turn the balance wheel toward you and

check that the needle does not touch the

presser foot. If the needle hits the presser

foot, the needle may bend or break.

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 71 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

UTILITY STITCHES — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —

Basic Stitching

Straight stitches are used for sewing plain seams. Five stitches are available for basic stitching.

Basting

Sew basting with a stitch length between 5 mm (3/16

inch) and 30 mm (1-3/16 inch).

Attach zigzag foot "J".

• For details, refer to "Replacing the presser

foot" (page 37).

Select stitch

• For details, refer to "Selecting stitching" (page

66).

Start sewing.

• For details, refer to "Starting to sew" (page

48).

a 5-30 mm (3/16-1-3/16 inch)

Stitch Name Pattern

Stitch

Key

Application

Stitch Width

[mm (inch.)]

Stitch Length

[mm (inch.)]

Presser

Foot

Auto Manual Auto Manual

Basting stitch

– Temporarily securing

0.0

(0)

0.0–7.0

(0–1/4)

(3/4)

5-30

(3/16-1-3/16)

Straight stitch

(left needle

position)

Basic stitching and

sewing gathers or

pintucks (left baseline/

reverse stitching)

0.0

(0)

0.0–7.0

(0–1/4)

2.5

(3/32)

0.2-5.0

(1/64–3/16)

Straight stitch

(center

needle

position)

–

Basic stitching and

sewing gathers or

pintucks (left baseline/

reinforcement stitching)

0.0

(0)

0.0–7.0

(0–1/4)

2.5

(3/32)

0.2-5.0

(1/64–3/16)

Basic stitching and

sewing gathers or

pintucks (center

baseline/reverse

stitching)

––

2.5

(3/32)

0.2-5.0

(1/64–3/16)

Triple stretch

stitch

Reinforcing seams and

sewing stretch fabrics

0.0

(0)

0.0–7.0

(0–1/4)

2.5

(3/32)

1.5–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 72 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

Basic Stitching 73

Basic stitching

Baste or pin together the fabric pieces.

Attach zigzag foot "J".

• For details, refer to "Replacing the presser

foot" (page 37).

Select a stitch.

• For details, refer to "Selecting stitching" (page

66).

Lower the needle into the fabric at the

beginning of the stitching.

Start sewing.

• For details, refer to "Starting to sew" (page

48).

• For details on sewing reverse/reinforcement

stitches, refer to "Securing the stitching" (page

50).

When sewing is finished, cut the thread.

• For details, refer to "Cutting the thread" (page

51).

■ 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).

a Straight stitch (left needle position)

b 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 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.

a Stitch width

b Distance from the needle position to the right side

of the presser foot

c 12.0 mm (1/2 inch)

d 10.0 mm (3/8 inch)

e 6.5 mm (1/4 inch)

f 5.0 mm (3/16 inch)

• For details, refer to "Adjusting the stitch width"

(page 55).

0.0 2.0 5.5 7.0

543

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 73 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

UTILITY STITCHES — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —

Blind Hem Stitching

Secure the bottoms of skirts and pants with a blind hem. Two stitches are available for blind hem stitching.

Sew a blind hem according to the following procedure.

Fold the fabric along the desired edge of the

hem, and then baste it about 5 mm (3/16 inch)

from the edge of the fabric.

a Wrong side of fabric

b Basting stitching

c Desired edge of hem

d 5 mm (3/16 inch)

Fold back the fabric along the basting, and

then position the fabric with the wrong side

facing up.

a Wrong side of fabric

b Basting

Attach blind hem foot "R".

• For details, refer to "Replacing the presser

foot" (page 37).

Select a stitch.

• For details, refer to "Selecting stitching" (page

66).

Position the fabric with the edge of the folded

hem against the guide of the presser foot, and

then lower the presser foot lever.

a Wrong side of fabric

b Fold of hem

c Guide

Adjust the stitch width until the needle slightly

catches the fold of the hem.

a Needle drop point

Stitch Name Pattern

Stitch

Key

Application

Stitch Width

[mm (inch.)]

Stitch Length

[mm (inch.)]

Presser

Foot

Auto Manual Auto Manual

Blind hem

stitch

Blind hem stitching on

mediumweight fabrics

0.0

(0)

3← – 3→

2.0

(1/16)

1.0–3.5

(1/16–1/8)

Blind hem stitching on

stretch fabrics

0.0

(0)

3← – 3→

2.0

(1/16)

1.0–3.5

(1/16–1/8)

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 74 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

Blind Hem Stitching 75

a Stitch width

■ If the needle catches too much of the hem

fold

The needle is too far to the left.

Press (of the arrow keys) to decrease the

stitch width so that the needle slightly

catches the fold of the hem.

a Wrong side of fabric

b Right side of fabric

■ If the needle does not catch the hem fold

The needle is too far to the right.

Press (of the arrow keys) to increase the

stitch width so that the needle slightly

catches the fold of the hem.

a Wrong side of fabric

b Right side of fabric

• For details on changing the stitch width, refer

to "Adjusting the Stitch Width and Length"

(page 55).

Sew with the fold of the hem against the

presser foot guide.

Remove the basting stitching.

a Wrong side of fabric

b Right side of fabric

Memo

z For best results when sewing stretch fabrics,

decrease the pressure of the presser foot. For

details, refer to "Adjusting the pressure of the

presser foot" (page 39).

–

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 75 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

UTILITY STITCHES — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —

Buttonhole Stitching

Buttonholes can be sewn and buttons can be sewn on. Eleven stitches are available for sewing on buttons

and one-step buttonholes.

Stitch Name Pattern

Stitch

Key

Application

Stitch Width

[mm (inch.)]

Stitch Length

[mm (inch.)]

Presser

Foot

Auto Manual Auto Manual

Buttonhole

stitch

–

Horizontal buttonholes

on thin and

mediumweight 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)

–

Horizontal buttonholes

on areas that are subject

to strain

5.0

(3/16)

3.0–5.0

(1/8–3/16)

0.4

(1/64)

0.2–1.0

(1/64–1/16)

–

Horizontal buttonholes

on thick 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)

Buttonholes with bar

tacks on both ends for

stabilized 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)

–

Buttonholes for stretch

or knit 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)

–

Buttonholes for 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)

– 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)

–

Keyhole buttonholes for

thick or plush 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)

–

Keyhole buttonholes for

mediumweight and

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)

–

Horizontal buttonhole

for thick or plush 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)

Button-

sewing stitch

– Button sewing

3.5

(1/8)

2.5–4.5

(3/32–3/16)

––M

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 76 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

Buttonhole Stitching 77

Buttonhole sewing

The maximum buttonhole length is about 28 mm (1-1/8 inch) (diameter + thickness of the button).

Buttonholes are sewn from the front of the presser foot to the back, as shown below.

a Reinforcement stitching

The names of parts of buttonhole foot "A", which is

used for sewing buttonholes, are indicated below.

a Button guide plate

b Presser foot scale

c Pin

d Marks on buttonhole foot

e 5 mm (3/16 inch)

Use chalk to mark on the fabric the position

and length of the buttonhole.

a Marks on fabric

Pull out the button guide plate of buttonhole

foot "A", and then insert the button that will be

put through the buttonhole.

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 77 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

UTILITY STITCHES — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —

■ 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).)

a Presser foot scale

b Length of buttonhole (Diameter + thickness of

button)

c 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.

a 10 mm (3/8 inch)

b 15 mm (9/16 inch)

X The size of the buttonhole is set.

Attach buttonhole foot "A".

• For details, refer to "Replacing the presser

foot" (page 37).

Select a stitch.

• For details, refer to "Selecting stitching" (page

66).

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.

a Mark on fabric

b Red marks on buttonhole foot

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

buttonhole will not be sewn with the correct

size.

a Do not reduce the gap.

Pull down the buttonhole lever as far as

possible.

a Buttonhole lever

The buttonhole lever is positioned behind the

bracket on the buttonhole foot.

a Buttonhole lever

b Bracket

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 78 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

Buttonhole Stitching 79

Gently hold the end of the upper thread in

your left hand, and then start sewing.

X Once sewing is completed, the machine

automatically sews reinforcement stitches,

then stops.

Cut the threads, raise the presser foot lever,

and then remove the fabric.

Raise the buttonhole lever to its original

position.

Insert a pin along the inside of one bar tack at

the end of the buttonhole stitching to prevent

the stitching from being cut.

a Pin

Use the seam ripper to cut towards the pin and

open the buttonhole.

a 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.

a 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.

CAUTION

■ Changing the density of the stitching

Adjust the stitch length.

• For details, refer to "Adjusting the stitch

length" (page 56).

• 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 "Adjusting the stitch

width" (page 55).

● 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.

–

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 79 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

UTILITY STITCHES — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —

Memo

z Before sewing buttonholes, check the stitch

length and width by sewing a trial

buttonhole on a scrap piece of fabric.

■ Sewing buttonholes on stretch fabrics

When sewing buttonholes on stretch fabrics, use

a gimp thread.

Hook the gimp thread onto the part of

buttonhole foot "A" shown in the illustration so

that it fits into the grooves, and then loosely tie

it.

Attach buttonhole foot "A".

• For details, refer to "Replacing the presser

foot" (page 37).

Select stitch

Adjust the stitch width to the thickness of the

gimp thread.

Lower the presser foot lever and the

buttonhole lever, and then start sewing.

When sewing is finished, gently pull the gimp

thread to remove any slack.

Use a handsewing needle to pull the gimp

thread to the wrong side of the fabric, and

then tie it.

With a seam ripper, cut the middle part of the

gimp thread remaining at the top end of the

buttonhole.

Trim off any excess of the gimp thread.

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 80 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

Buttonhole Stitching 81

Button sewing

Buttons can be sewn on with the sewing machine.

Buttons with 2 or with 4 holes can be attached.

Raise the presser foot lever, and then slide the

drop feed lever, located at the rear of the

machine on the base, to (to the right as

seen from the front of the machine).

a Drop feed lever (as seen from the rear of the

machine)

b Back side

X The feed dogs are lowered.

Attach button-sewing foot "M".

• For details, refer to "Replacing the presser

foot" (page 37).

Place the button into button-sewing foot "M".

a 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 sewing machine,

and then sew them in the same way.

Select stitch

• For details, refer to "Selecting stitching" (page

66).

• Leave automatic thread-cutting set to .

Turn the balance wheel toward you to check

that the needle correctly goes into the two

holes of the button.

Adjust the stitch width to the distance between

the button holes.

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 81 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

UTILITY STITCHES — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —

CAUTION

Start sewing.

X The sewing machine automatically stops

after sewing reinforcement stitches.

• If additional strength is needed to secure the

button, perform the button-sewing operation

twice.

• Do not press the thread cutter button.

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.

Use scissors to cut the upper thread and the

bobbin thread at the beginning of the stitching.

When you are finished attaching the button,

slide the drop feed lever to (to the left as

seen from the front of the machine) to raise

the feed dogs.

a Back side

■ 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.

Place the button into button-sewing foot "M",

and then pull the shank lever toward you.

a Shank lever

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.

Cut off any excess thread.

● When sewing, be sure that the needle

does not touch the button, otherwise the

needle may bend or break.

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 82 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

Zipper Insertion 83

Zipper Insertion

A zipper can be sewn in place.

There are many methods for inserting zippers. The procedures for inserting a centered zipper and a side

zipper are described below.

Inserting a centered zipper

Stitching is sewn on both pieces of fabric butted

against each other.

a Right side of fabric

b Stitching

c End of zipper opening

Attach zigzag foot "J" and 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.

• For details, refer to "Basic stitching" (page

73).

Using a basting stitch, continue sewing to the

edge of the fabric.

a Basting stitching

b Reverse stitches

c Wrong side of fabric

d End of zipper opening

Press open the seam allowance from the

wrong side of the fabric.

a Wrong side of fabric

Stitch Name Pattern

Stitch

Key

Application

Stitch Width

[mm (inch.)]

Stitch Length

[mm (inch.)]

Presser

Foot

Auto Manual Auto Manual

Straight stitch

(center

needle

position)

Attaching zippers

Sewing concealed

seams and pintucks

––

2.5

(3/32)

0.2–5.0

(1/64–3/16)

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UTILITY STITCHES — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —

Align the seam with the center of the zipper,

and then baste the zipper in place.

a Wrong side of fabric

b Basting stiching

c Zipper

Attach the presser foot holder to the right pin

of zipper foot "I".

a Pin on the right side

b Needle drop point

• For details, refer to "Replacing the presser

foot" (page 37).

Select stitch

• For details, refer to "Selecting stitching" (page

66).

CAUTION

Topstitch around the zipper.

a Stitching

b Right side of fabric

c Basting stitching

d End of zipper opening

CAUTION

Remove the basting stitching.

● When using zipper foot "I", be sure to

select the straight stitch (center needle

position), and slowly turn the balance

wheel toward you 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.

● When sewing, be sure that the needle

does not touch the zipper, otherwise the

needle may bend or break.

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 84 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

Zipper Insertion 85

Inserting a side zipper

Stitching is sewn on only one piece of fabric. Use this

type of zipper for side openings and back openings.

a Stitching

b Right side of fabric

c End of zipper opening

The following procedure will describe how to stitch

on the left side, as shown in the illustration.

Attach zigzag foot "J" and 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.

• For details, refer to "Basic stitching" (page

73).

Using a basting stitch, continue sewing to the

edge of the fabric.

a Basting stitching

b Reverse stitches

c Wrong side of fabric

d End of zipper opening

Press open the seam allowance from the

wrong side of the fabric.

a Wrong side of fabric

Press the seam allowance so that the right side

(the side that will not be stitched) has an extra

3 mm (1/8 inch).

a Wrong side of fabric

b 3 mm (1/8 inch)

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.

a Zipper teeth

b Basting stitching

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.

a Pin on the right side

b Needle drop point

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 85 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

UTILITY STITCHES — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —

• For details, refer to "Replacing the presser

foot" (page 37).

Select stitch

• For details, refer to "Selecting stitching" (page

66).

CAUTION

Sew the zipper to the piece of fabric with the

extra 3 mm (1/8 inch), starting from the base

of the zipper.

CAUTION

When you are about 5 cm (2 inch) from the

end of the zipper, stop the sewing machine

with the needle lowered (in the fabric), raise

the presser foot lever, and then open the

zipper and continue sewing.

Close the zipper, turn over the fabric, and then

baste the other side of the zipper to the fabric.

a Basting stitching

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

f, change it to the left pin.

a Pin on the left side

b Needle drop point

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.

a Right side of fabric

b End of zipper opening

c Reverse stitches

d Beginning of stitching

e Basting stitching

● When using zipper foot "I", be sure to

select the straight stitch (center needle

position), and slowly turn the balance

wheel toward you 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.

● When sewing, be sure that the needle

does not touch the zipper, otherwise the

needle may bend or break.

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 86 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

Zipper Insertion 87

When you are about 5 cm (2 inch) from the

end of the zipper, stop the sewing machine

with the needle lowered (in the fabric), and

then raise the presser foot lever.

Remove the basting stitching, open the zipper,

and then continue sewing.

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 87 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

UTILITY STITCHES — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —

Zipper/piping Insertion

A zipper and piping can be sewn in place.

There are many methods for inserting zippers and pipings. The procedures for inserting a centered zipper

and a piping are described below, with the adjustable zipper/piping foot.

Inserting a centered zipper

Refer to step a–d of "Inserting a centered

zipper" (page 83).

Remove the presser foot and presser foot

holder (page 39) to attach the screw-on

adjustable zipper/piping foot.

Note

z Use a screw driver to securely tighten the

screw that holds the presser foot. If the screw

is loose, the needle may break and cause

injures.

Select stitch

Loosen the positioning screw on the back of

the presser foot.

a Positioning screw

Slide the presser foot over either the left or

right feed dog.

Change the needle position so that the needle

does not touch the presser foot.

For details, refer to "Adjusting the stitch width"

(page 55).

a Needle drop point

CAUTION

Stitch Name Pattern

Stitch

Key

Application

Stitch Width

[mm (inch.)]

Stitch Length

[mm (inch.)]

Presser

Foot

Auto Manual Auto Manual

Straight stitch

(left needle

position)

Attaching zippers

Sewing concealed

seams and piping

0.0

(0)

0.0–7.0

(0–1/4)

2.5

(3/32)

0.2–5.0

(1/64–3/16)

● After adjusting the needle position, slowly

turn the balance wheel toward you 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

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 88 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

Zipper/piping Insertion 89

Securely tighten the positioning screw with a

screwdriver.

a Positioning screw

Topstitch around the zipper.

a Stitching

b Right side of fabric

c Basting stitching

d End of zipper opening

CAUTION

Remove the basting stitching.

Inserting a piping

Place the piping between two fabrics inside

out, as shown below.

a Fabric

b Piping

c Fabric

Refer to the steps of attaching the adjustable

zipper/piping foot on the previous page.

Sew along the piping.

After sewing, turn them over.

● When sewing, be sure that the needle

does not touch the zipper, otherwise the

needle may bend or break.

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 89 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

UTILITY STITCHES — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —

Sewing Stretch Fabrics and Elastic Tape

Stretch fabrics can be sewn and elastic tape can be attached.

Observe the corresponding precautions when performing each of the following stitching operations.

Stretch stitching

Attach zigzag foot "J".

• For details, refer to "Replacing the presser

foot" (page 37).

Select stitch

• For details, refer to "Selecting stitching" (page

66).

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.

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.

a Elastic tape

b Pin

Stitch Name Pattern

Stitch

Key

Application

Stitch Width

[mm (inch.)]

Stitch Length

[mm (inch.)]

Presser

Foot

Auto Manual Auto Manual

Stretch stitch

Stretch fabrics

1.0

(1/16)

1.0–3.0

(1/16–1/8)

2.5

(3/32)

1.0–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

2-point

zigzag stitch

–

Attaching elastic

5.0

(3/16)

1.5–7.0

(1/16–1/4)

1.0

(1/16)

0.2–4.0

(1/64–3/16)

3-point

zigzag stitch

5.0

(3/16)

1.5–7.0

(1/16–1/4)

1.0

(1/16)

0.2–4.0

(1/64–3/16)

Elastic-

attaching

stitch

–

Attaching elastic to

stretch fabrics

4.0

(3/16)

0.0–7.0

(0–1/4)

1.0

(1/16)

0.2–4.0

(1/64–3/16)

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 90 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

Sewing Stretch Fabrics and Elastic Tape 91

Attach zigzag foot "J".

• For details, refer to "Replacing the presser

foot" (page 37).

Select a stitch.

• For details, refer to "Selecting stitching" (page

66).

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.

CAUTION

● When sewing, be sure that the needle

does not touch any pins, otherwise the

needle may bend or break.

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 91 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

UTILITY STITCHES — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —

Appliqué, Patchwork and Quilt Stitching

The stitches that can be used for sewing appliqués, patchwork and quilts are described below.

Stitch Name Pattern

Stitch

Key

Application

Stitch Width

[mm (inch.)]

Stitch Length

[mm (inch.)]

Presser

Foot

Auto Manual Auto Manual

Zigzag stitch

Attaching appliqués

(center baseline/reverse

stitching)

3.5

(1/8)

0.0–7.0

(0–1/4)

1.4

(1/16)

0.0–4.0

(0–3/16)

–

Appliqué quilting, free-

motion quilting, satin

stitching

3.5

(1/8)

0.0–7.0

(0–1/4)

1.4

(1/16)

0.0–4.0

(0–3/16)

Appliqué

stitch

Attaching appliqués

3.5

(1/8)

2.5–5.0

(3/32–3/16)

2.5

(3/32)

1.6–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

–

Attaching appliqués and

binding

1.5

(1/16)

0.5–5.0

(1/32–3/16)

1.2

(1/16)

1.0–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

Piecing

straight stitch

–

Piecing straight stitching

(with a seam allowance

of 6.5 mm from the right

edge of the presser foot)

5.5

(7/32)

0.0–7.0

(0–1/4)

1.6

(1/16)

0.2–5.0

(1/64–3/16)

–

Piecing straight stitching

(with a seam allowance

of 6.5 mm from the left

edge of the presser foot)

1.5

(1/16)

0.0–7.0

(0–1/4)

1.6

(1/16)

0.2–5.0

(1/64–3/16)

Joining stitch

–

Patchwork stitching

4.0

(3/16)

0.0–7.0

(0–1/4)

1.2

(1/16)

0.2–4.0

(1/64–3/16)

–

5.0

(3/16)

2.5–7.0

(3/32–1/4)

2.5

(3/32)

1.0–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

–

5.0

(3/16)

0.0–7.0

(0–1/4)

1.2

(1/16)

0.2–4.0

(1/64–3/16)

Mock hand

quilting stitch

–

Straight stitch quilting

that looks hand quilting

0.0

(0)

0.0–7.0

(0–1/4)

2.5

(3/32)

1.0–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

Quilting

stippling

– Stippling

7.0

(1/4)

1.0–7.0

(1/16–1/4)

1.6

(1/16)

1.0–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 92 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

Appliqué, Patchwork and Quilt Stitching 93

Appliqué stitching

Cut out the appliqué, leaving a seam

allowance of between 3 and 5 mm (1/8 and

3/16 inch).

a Seam allowance

Place a pattern made of thick paper on the

back of the appliqué, and then fold over the

seam allowance using an iron.

• Remove the thick paper after pressing the

seam allowance.

Turn the fabric over, and then baste or pin it

onto the fabric that it will be attached to.

a Basting stitching

Attach the open toe foot.

• For details, refer to "Replacing the presser

foot" (page 37).

Select a stitch.

• For details, refer to "Selecting stitching" (page

66).

Turn the balance wheel toward you, 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.

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UTILITY STITCHES — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —

Patchwork (crazy quilt)

stitching

Fold the edge of the top piece of fabric and

place it over the lower piece.

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.

Baste or pin along the seam allowance of the

fabric that you wish to piece together.

Attach zigzag foot "J".

• For details, refer to "Replacing the presser

foot" (page 37).

Select stitch

• For details, refer to "Selecting stitching" (page

66).

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

a 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, and sew using stitch

a 6.5 mm (1/4 inch)

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 94 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

Appliqué, Patchwork and Quilt Stitching 95

Memo

z To change the width of the seam allowance

(The needle position), adjust the stitch width.

■ Using the 1/4 inch quilting foot

If the 1/4 inch quilting foot is used, seams can be

sewn with a seam allowance of 6.4 mm (1/4

inch).

Baste or pin along the seam allowance of the

fabric that you wish to piece together.

Attach the 1/4 inch quilting foot.

• For details, refer to "Replacing the presser

foot" (page 37).

Select stitch

Align the mark at the upper edge of the 1/4

inch 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 inch quilting

foot.

a Mark on 1/4 inch quilting foot

b Beginning of stitching

When sewing with a seam allowance, align the

left edge of the narrow part of the 1/4 inch

quilting foot with the fabric edge.

a Seam (3.2 mm (1/8 inch))

Start sewing.

When the end of the stitching is reached, stop

the sewing machine.

Sew until the mark at the lower edge of the 1/4

inch quilting foot aligns with the lower edge of

the fabric.

a 6.4mm (1/4 inch)

b End of stitching

c Mark on 1/4 inch quilting foot

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UTILITY STITCHES — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —

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.

Baste the fabric to be quilted.

Attach the walking foot.

• For details, refer to "Using the walking foot"

(page 40).

Select a stitch.

• For details, refer to "Selecting stitching" (page

66).

Place one hand on each side of the presser

foot, and then evenly guide the fabric while

sewing.

Note

z When sewing with the walking foot, sew at a

speed between slow and medium.

■ Using the quilting guide

Use the quilting guide to sew parallel stitches that

are equally spaced.

Insert the stem of the quilter into the hole at

the rear of the walking foot or presser foot

holder.

 Walking foot

 Presser foot holder

Adjust the stem of the quilter so that the quilt

guide aligns with the seam that has already

been sewn.

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 96 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

Appliqué, Patchwork and Quilt Stitching 97

Free-motion quilting

With free-motion quilting, the feed dogs can be

lowered (using the drop feed lever) so that the fabric

can be moved freely in any direction.

The quilting foot is needed for free-motion quilting.

Remove the presser foot and the presser foot

holder.

• Refer to "Removing the presser foot holder"

(page 39).

Align the quilting foot with the lower-left side

of the presser bar.

The pin on the quilting foot should be

positioned over the needle clamp screw.

Hold the quilting foot in place with your right

hand, and then tighten the presser foot holder

screw using the screwdriver in your left hand.

a Pin on quilting foot

b Presser foot holder screw

c Needle clamp screw

CAUTION

Slide the drop feed lever, located at the rear of

the machine on the base, to (to the right

as seen from the front of the machine).

a Feed dog position switch (as seen from the rear of

the machine)

b Back side

X The feed dogs are lowered.

Turn on the sewing machine, and then select a

stitch.

• For details, refer to "Selecting stitching" (page

66).

Use both hands to hold the fabric taut, and

then move the fabric to follow the pattern.

Reinforcement stitches are sewn at the

beginning and end of sewing.

a Pattern

● Be sure to securely tighten the screws

with the screwdriver, otherwise the

needle may touch the presser foot,

causing it to bend or break.

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 97 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

UTILITY STITCHES — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —

After sewing is finished, slide the drop feed

lever to (to the left as seen from the front

of the machine) to raise the feed dogs.

a Back side

• Normally, the drop feed lever is positioned at

the left.

Satin stitching

A decorative stitch can be sewn by changing the

stitch width of a satin stitch. If the sewing 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.

Connect the foot controller.

• For details, refer to "Starting to sew" (page

48).

Attach zigzag foot "J".

• For details, refer to "Replacing the presser

foot" (page 37).

Turn on the sewing machine, and then press

(Settings key) in the operation panel.

X The settings screen appears.

Press , , and (Arrow keys) until

is selected.

Press (OK key).

X The screen for specifying that the stitch

width can be controlled with the sewing

speed controller appears.

Press to select .

To return to , press .

X The machine is now set so that the stitch

width can be controlled with the sewing

speed controller.

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 98 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

Appliqué, Patchwork and Quilt Stitching 99

Press (OK key).

X The initial stitch screen appears again.

Select stitch

• For details, refer to "Selecting stitching" (page

66).

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.

When you are finished sewing, set the stitch

width control setting back to OFF.

Memo

z 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).

Narrower Wider

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100

Reinforcement Stitching

Reinforce points that will be subject to strain, such as sleeve holes, inseams and pocket corners.

Triple stretch stitching

Use triple stretch stitching to reinforce sleeve holes

and inseams.

Attach zigzag foot "J".

• For details, refer to "Replacing the presser

foot" (page 37).

Select stitch

• For details, refer to "Selecting stitching" (page

66).

Start sewing.

• For details, refer to "Starting to sew" (page

48).

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.

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).)

a Presser foot scale

b Length of bar tack

c 5 mm (3/16 inch)

• A bar tack with a maximum length of about

28 mm (1–1/8 inch) can be sewn.

Stitch Name Pattern

Stitch

Key

Application

Stitch Width

[mm (inch.)]

Stitch Length

[mm (inch.)]

Presser

Foot

Auto Manual Auto Manual

Triple stretch

stitch

Reinforcing the seams of

sleeves and inseams

0.0

(0)

0.0–7.0

(0–1/4)

2.5

(3/32)

1.5–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

Bar tack

stitch

–

Reinforcing the ends of

openings, such as the

corners of pockets

2.0

(1/16)

1.0–3.0

(1/16–1/8)

0.4

(1/64)

0.3–1.0

(1/64–1/16)

Darning

stitch

–

Darning mediumweight

fabrics

7.0

(1/4)

2.5–7.0

(3/32–1/4)

2.0

(1/16)

0.4–2.5

(1/64–3/32)

– Darning thick fabrics

7.0

(1/4)

2.5–7.0

(3/32–1/4)

2.0

(1/16)

0.4–2.5

(1/64–3/32)

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 100 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

Reinforcement Stitching 101

Attach buttonhole foot "A".

• For details, refer to "Replacing the presser

foot" (page 37).

Select stitch

• For details, refer to "Selecting stitching" (page

66).

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.

a 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.

a Do not reduce the gap.

Pull down the buttonhole lever as far as

possible.

a Buttonhole lever

The buttonhole lever is positioned behind the

bracket on the buttonhole foot.

a Buttonhole lever

b Bracket

Gently hold the end of the upper thread in

your left hand, and then start sewing.

X Once sewing is completed, the machine

automatically sews reinforcement stitches,

then stops.

Cut the threads, raise the presser foot lever,

and then remove the fabric.

Raise the buttonhole lever to its original

position.

Memo

z If the fabric does not feed, for example,

because it is too thick, increase the stitch

length. For details, refer to "Adjusting the

stitch length" (page 56).

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UTILITY STITCHES — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —

102

Darning

Fabric that has been torn can be darned.

Darning is sewn as shown below.

a Reinforcement stitching

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).)

a Presser foot scale

b Length of darning

c 5 mm (3/16 inch)

d 7 mm (1/4 inch)

• A bar tack with a maximum length of about

28 mm (1-1/8 inch) can be sewn.

Attach buttonhole foot "A".

• For details, refer to "Replacing the presser

foot" (page 37).

Select stitch

• For details, refer to "Selecting stitching" (page

66).

Position the fabric so that the needle is 2 mm

(1/16 inch) in front of the area to be darned,

and then lower the presser foot lever.

a Tear

b 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

darning will not be sewn with the correct

size.

a Do not reduce the gap.

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 102 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

Reinforcement Stitching 103

Pull down the buttonhole lever as far as

possible.

a Buttonhole lever

The buttonhole lever is positioned behind the

bracket on the buttonhole foot.

a Buttonhole lever

b Bracket

Gently hold the end of the upper thread in

your left hand, and then start sewing.

X Once sewing is completed, the machine

automatically sews reinforcement stitches,

then stops.

Cut the threads, raise the presser foot lever,

and then remove the fabric.

Raise the buttonhole lever to its original

position.

Memo

z If the fabric does not feed, for example,

because it is too thick, increase the stitch

length. For details, refer to "Adjusting the

stitch length" (page 56).

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 103 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

UTILITY STITCHES — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —

104

Eyelet Stitching

Eyelets, such as those on belts, can be sewn. Three sizes of eyelets are possible: 7 mm, 6 mm and 5 mm

(1/4, 15/64 and 3/16 inch).

Attach monogramming foot "N".

• For details, refer to "Replacing the presser

foot" (page 37).

Select stitch

• For details, refer to "Selecting stitching" (page

66).

Adjust either the stitch width or the stitch

length to select the desired eyelet size.

• For details, refer to "Adjusting the Stitch

Width and Length" (page 55).

Lower the needle into the fabric at the

beginning of the stitching, and then lower the

presser foot lever.

Start sewing.

X Once sewing is completed, the machine

automatically sews reinforcement stitches,

then stops.

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.

Memo

z If thin thread is used, the stitching may be

open. If this occurs, sew the eyelet twice

before removing the fabric, one on top of the

other.

Stitch Name Pattern Application

Stitch Width

[mm (inch.)]

Stitch Length

[mm (inch.)]

Presser

Foot

Auto Manual Auto Manual

Eyelet stitch

Sewing eyelets, for example, on

belts

7.0

(1/4)

7.0, 6.0 or

5.0

(1/4, 15/64

or 3/16)

7.0

(1/4)

7.0, 6.0 or

5.0

(1/4, 15/64

or 3/16)

7 mm

(1/4 inch)

6 mm

(15/64 inch)

5 mm

(3/16 inch)

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 104 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

Horizontal Stitching 105

Horizontal Stitching

Horizontal stitching is used to attach appliqués to fabric that cannot be moved around, such as cylindrical

pieces. Straight stitches and zigzag stitches that sew to either the left or right are available.

The illustration below shows the sewing order for

the following explanation.

Remove the flat bed attachment.

• For details, refer to "Stitching cylindrical

pieces" (page 42).

Attach monogramming foot "N".

• For details, refer to "Replacing the presser

foot" (page 37).

Select stitch

• For details, refer to "Selecting stitching" (page

66).

Lower the needle into the fabric at the

beginning of the stitching, and then start

sewing.

Lower the needle at the upper-right corner.

X The fabric is fed toward the back of the

machine, as usual.

After you have sewn to the corner, stop the

sewing machine, and then select stitch

Start sewing.

X The fabric is fed to the right.

After you have sewn to the corner, stop the

sewing machine, and then select stitch

Stitch Name Pattern Application

Stitch Width

[mm (inch.)]

Stitch Length

[mm (inch.)]

Presser

Foot

Horizontal

straight stitch

Attaching appliqués to sleeves

(straight stitch sewn to the left)

––

Attaching appliqués to sleeves

(straight stitch sewn to the right)

––

Horizontal

zigzag stitch

Attaching appliqués to sleeves

(zigzag stitch sewn to the left)

––

Attaching appliqués to sleeves

(zigzag stitch sewn to the right)

––

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106

Press (Reverse/reinforcement stitch

button).

Hold the reverse/reinforcement stitch button

pressed until the stitching reaches the upper-left

corner.

X The fabric is fed forward.

After you have sewn to the corner, stop the

sewing machine, and then select stitch

Start sewing.

X The fabric is fed to the left.

After you have sewn to the corner, stop the

sewing machine, and then select stitch

again.

After sewing 3 to 5 stitches at the beginning of

the stitching, stop the sewing machine.

Memo

z The feeding direction of the fabric differs

depending on the stitch that is selected. Be

sure to guide the fabric while it is sewn.

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 106 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

Decorative Stitching 107

Decorative Stitching

Various decorative stitches can be sewn with this sewing machine.

Stitch Name Pattern Application

Stitch Width

[mm (inch.)]

Stitch Length

[mm (inch.)]

Presser

Foot

Auto Manual Auto Manual

Fagoting

stitch

Sewing two pieces of fabric

together across an open seam

5.0

(3/16)

0.0–7.0

(0–1/4)

2.5

(3/32)

1.0–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

5.0

(3/16)

2.5–7.0

(3/25–1/4)

2.5

(3/32)

1.0–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

Joining stitch

Decorative bridging stitches

4.0

(3/16)

0.0–7.0

(0–1/4)

1.2

(1/16)

0.2–4.0

(1/64–3/16)

5.0

(3/16)

2.5–7.0

(3/32–1/4)

2.5

(3/32)

1.0–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

5.0

(3/16)

0.0–7.0

(0–1/4)

1.2

(1/16)

0.2–4.0

(1/64–3/16)

Shell tuck

stitch

Shell tuck stitching on collars

and curves

4.0

(3/16)

0.0–7.0

(0–1/4)

2.5

(3/32)

0.2–4.0

(1/64–3/16)

Smocking

stitch

Smocking fabrics to add texture

and elasticity

5.0

(3/16)

0.0–7.0

(0–1/4)

1.6

(1/16)

1.0–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

5.0

(3/16)

0.0–7.0

(0–1/4)

2.5

(3/32)

1.0–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

5.0

(3/16)

2.5–7.0

(3/32–1/4)

2.5

(3/32)

1.0–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

Scallop stitch

Satin scallop stitching

5.0

(3/16)

2.5–7.0

(3/32–1/4)

0.5

(1/32)

0.1–1.0

(1/64–1/16)

Decorative

stitch

Lace sewing, decorative

hemming, heirloom stitching,

etc.

3.5

(1/8)

1.5–7.0

(1/16–1/4)

2.5

(3/32)

1.6–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

6.0

(15/64)

1.5–7.0

(1/16–1/4)

3.0

(1/8)

1.5–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

Decorative hemming and

heirloom stitching, etc. on thin,

mediumweight and plain weave

fabrics

5.0

(3/16)

1.5–7.0

(1/16–1/4)

3.5

(1/8)

1.5–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

5.0

(3/16)

1.5–7.0

(1/16–1/4)

4.0

(3/16)

1.5–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

5.0

(3/16)

1.5–7.0

(1/16–1/4)

2.5

(3/32)

1.5–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

5.0

(3/16)

1.5–7.0

(1/16–1/4)

2.0

(1/16)

1.5–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

Decorative hemming, ribbon

threading, heirloom stitching,

etc.

5.0

(3/16)

1.5–7.0

(1/16–1/4)

3.0

(1/8)

1.5–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

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108

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.

Use an iron to fold the two pieces of fabric

along their seams.

Baste the two pieces of fabric, separated by

about 4 mm (3/16 inch), onto thin paper or a

sheet of water-soluble stabilizer.

a Thin paper or water soluble stabilizer

b Basting stitching

c 4 mm (3/16 inch)

Attach zigzag foot "J".

• For details, refer to "Replacing the presser

foot" (page 37).

Select stitch

• For details, refer to "Selecting stitching" (page

66).

Set the stitch width to 7.0 mm (1/4 inch).

• For details, refer to "Adjusting the stitch

width" (page 55).

Sew with the center of the presser foot aligned

along the center of the two pieces of fabric.

After sewing is finished, remove the paper.

Decorative

stitch

Heirloom stitching, etc.

6.0

(15/64)

1.5–7.0

(1/16–1/4)

1.6

(1/16)

1.0–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

5.0

(3/16)

1.5–7.0

(1/16–1/4)

1.6

(1/16)

1.0–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

Decorative stitching

4.0

(3/16)

0.0–7.0

(0–1/4)

3.0

(1/8)

2.0–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

4.0

(3/16)

0.0–7.0

(0–1/4)

2.5

(3/32)

1.0–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

5.5

(7/32)

0.0–7.0

(0–1/4)

1.6

(1/16)

1.0–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

5.0

(3/16)

1.5–7.0

(1/16–1/4

1.0

(1/16)

0.2–4.0

(1/64–3/16)

Stitch Name Pattern Application

Stitch Width

[mm (inch.)]

Stitch Length

[mm (inch.)]

Presser

Foot

Auto Manual Auto Manual

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 108 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

Decorative Stitching 109

Scallop stitching

The wave-shaped repeating pattern that looks like

shells is called "scalloping". It is used on the collars of

blouses and to decorate the edges of handkerchiefs.

Attach monogramming foot "N".

• For details, refer to "Replacing the presser

foot" (page 37).

Select stitch

• For details, refer to "Selecting stitching" (page

66).

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.

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.

Attach zigzag foot "J".

• For details, refer to "Replacing the presser

foot" (page 37).

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 "Adjusting the stitch

length" (page 56) and "Thread tension" (page

53).

Sew parallel stitching at intervals of 1 cm

(3/8 inch).

a 1 cm (3/8 inch)

• It is not necessary to sew reverse/

reinforcement stitches or cut the thread.

Pull the bobbin threads to create gathers.

Smooth the gathers by ironing them.

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110

Select stitch

• For details, refer to "Selecting stitching" (page

66).

Stitch between the straight stitches.

Pull out the threads for the straight stitches.

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.

Fold the fabric along the bias.

Attach zigzag foot "J".

• For details, refer to "Replacing the presser

foot" (page 37).

Select stitch

, and then increase the thread

tension.

• For details, refer to "Selecting stitching" (page

66).

Sew while making sure that the needle drops

slightly off the edge of the fabric.

a Needle drop point

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Decorative Stitching 111

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.

Attach zigzag foot "J".

• For details, refer to "Replacing the presser

foot" (page 37).

Sew together the right sides of the two pieces

of fabric, and then open up the seam

allowances.

a Wrong side of fabric

b 6.5 mm (1/4 inch) seam allowance

c Straight stitch

Select stitch

• For details, refer to "Selecting stitching" (page

66).

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.

a Right side of fabric

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112

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 mediumweight fabrics in addition to plain weave

fabrics.

Install the wing needle.

• Use a 130/705H 100/16 wing needle.

• For details on installing a needle, refer to

"Replacing the needle" (page 35).

• The needle threader cannot be used with the

wing needle, otherwise the sewing machine

may be damaged. Manually pass the thread

through the eye of the needle from the front

to the back.

Attach monogramming foot "N".

• For details, refer to "Replacing the presser

foot" (page 37).

Select a stitch.

The stitches that can be used are

• For details, refer to "Selecting stitching" (page

66).

• Select a stitch width of 6.0 mm (15/64 inch)

or less.

Start sewing.

CAUTION

Partially removing threads is called "drawnwork".

This gives a beautiful result with fabrics that have a

loose weave.

Two ways to create drawnwork are described below.

■ Drawnwork (Example 1)

Pull out several threads from the fabric.

Attach monogramming foot "N".

• For details, refer to "Replacing the presser

foot" (page 37).

Select stitch

• For details, refer to "Selecting stitching" (page

66).

● 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 balance wheel toward you and

check that the needle does not touch the

presser foot. If the needle hits the presser

foot, the needle may bend or break.

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Decorative Stitching 113

With the right side of the fabric facing up, sew

along the right edge of the frayed section.

Press (Settings key) in the operation panel.

X The settings screen appears.

Press , , and (Arrow keys) until

is selected.

Press (OK key).

X The screen for mirror imaging the pattern

appears.

Press to select .

To return to , press .

X The pattern is flipped.

Press (OK key).

X The initial stitch screen appears again.

Sew along the other edge of the frayed section

so that it looks like the previous stitching.

Set the mirror image pattern setting back to

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114

■ Drawnwork (Example 2)

Pull out several threads from two sections of

the fabric, separated by an unfrayed section of

about 4 mm (3/16 inch).

a 4 mm (3/16 inch)

Attach monogramming foot "N".

• For details, refer to "Replacing the presser

foot" (page 37).

Select stitch

• For details, refer to "Selecting stitching" (page

66).

Sew along the center of the unfrayed section.

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Sewing the Various Built-In Decorative Patterns 115

Sewing the Various Built-In Decorative Patterns

Satin stitches, cross-stitches and decorative satin stitches can be sewn. All are sewn with monogramming

foot "N".

Sewing beautiful patterns

In order to sew the patterns correctly, the following

must be considered.

■ Fabric

Before sewing stretch or thin fabrics or fabrics

with a coarse weave, affix the optional stabilizer

material to the wrong side of the fabric or place a

thin sheet of paper, such as tracing paper, under

the fabric. Since material puckering or bunched

stitches may occur when satin stitches are sewn,

be sure to affix stabilizer material to the fabric.

■ Needles and threads

When sewing thin, mediumweight or stretch

fabrics, use the ball point needle. When sewing

thick fabrics, use a 90/14 home sewing machine

needle. In addition, 75/11 to 90/14 thread should

be used.

■ Trial sewing

Depending on the type and thickness of the fabric

being sewn and whether or not stabilizer material

is used, the desired result may not be achieved.

Be sure to sew a trial piece of fabric before

sewing your project. In addition, while sewing, be

sure to guide the fabric with your hands in order

to prevent the fabric from slipping.

Sewing patterns

Attach monogramming foot "N".

• For details, refer to "Replacing the presser

foot" (page 37).

Select a stitch.

• For details, refer to steps

d through i of

"Selecting stitching" (page 66).

Start sewing.

• The stitching is sewn in the direction

indicated by the arrow.

Sew reinforcement stitches.

When sewing with a character stitch,

reinforcement stitches are automatically sewn

after each character.

• When sewing a pattern with a stitch other

than a character stitch, it is useful to first set

the automatic reverse/reinforcement stitching

setting. For details, refer to "Automatically

sewing reverse/reinforcement stitches" (page

57).

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116

When you are finished sewing, use scissors to

trim off any excess threads at the beginning of

the stitching and between the patterns.

Combining patterns

Multiple patterns can be combined and sewn

together.

Select the first pattern, and then press

(OK key).

X The first pattern is selected and appears in

the LCD.

• When the sewing is started, the selected

pattern is sewn repeatedly until the sewing

machine is stopped.

Press the + key in the operation panel.

X The screen for selecting a pattern appears

again.

Select the next pattern, and then press

(OK key).

To select a different stitch type, press (Stitch

selection key).

X The combined patterns appear in the LCD.

• To remove a selected pattern, press the C key

in the operation panel. The pattern that was

selected last is removed.

Repeat steps b and c.

After all of the desired patterns are selected,

start sewing.

a Sewing direction

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 116 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

Sewing the Various Built-In Decorative Patterns 117

X The order that the patterns appear in the

LCD is the order that they will be sewn.

Memo

z Up to 70 patterns can be combined.

z Some utility stitches cannot be combined.

z 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 "Repeat sewing patterns".

z The combined pattern can be stored for later

use. For details, refer to "Storing a pattern"

(page 123).

Repeat sewing patterns

To repeatedly sew the combined pattern, follow the

procedure described below.

Select the pattern.

• For details, refer to "Combining patterns" (on

the previous page).

Press (Settings key) in the operation panel.

X The settings screen appears.

Press , , and (Arrow keys) until

is selected.

Press (OK key).

X The screen for specifying repeat sewing

appears.

Press to select (repeat sewing).

To return to (single sewing), press .

Press (OK key).

X The initial stitch screen appears again, and

the machine is set to repeatedly sew the

selected pattern.

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118

a Single

b Repeated

Note

z If repeated sewing is set, the pattern is

repeatedly sewn until the sewing machine is

stopped.

z If the sewing machine is turned off, the

repeated/single sewing setting returns to its

default setting.

Checking the selected pattern

Up to 70 patterns can be combined. If all of the

selected patterns cannot be displayed in the LCD at

the same time, the pattern can be checked according

to the following procedure.

Press (Settings key) in the operation panel.

X The settings screen appears.

Press , , and (Arrow keys) until

is selected.

Press (OK key).

X The screen for checking the pattern appears.

Press and to scroll through the pattern

and check it.

Press (OK key).

X The initial stitch screen appears again.

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Sewing the Various Built-In Decorative Patterns 119

Changing the pattern size

The size of decorative stitches, decorative satin

stitches, and character stitches in the Gothic font and

outline style can be switched between large and

small. However, the size of other patterns cannot be

changed.

Select a stitch.

Select one of the decorative stitches, decorative

satin stitches, or character stitches in either the

Gothic font or the outline style.

Press (Settings key) in the operation panel.

X The settings screen appears.

Press , , and (Arrow keys) until

is selected.

Press (OK key).

X The screen for changing the pattern size

appears.

Press and until the desired size is

selected.

Select for the small size or select for the

large size.

X The pattern size is changed.

Press (OK key).

X The initial stitch screen appears again.

Memo

z The large pattern size is the default. If the

small pattern size is selected, small patterns

can be combined and connected.

z If multiple patterns have been combined, the

size of each selected pattern can be

specified.

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120

Changing the stitch density

If a decorative satin stitch has been selected, the

stitch density can be changed.

Select a decorative satin stitch .

Press (Settings key) in the operation panel.

X The settings screen appears.

Press , , and (Arrow keys) until

is selected.

Press (OK key).

X The screen for specifying the stitching

density of the decorative satin stitch appears.

Press and until the desired density is

selected.

Select for coarser stitching or select for

finer stitching.

Press (OK key).

X The initial stitch screen appears again, and

the stitching density is changed.

CAUTION

Changing the pattern length

The length of one part of a satin stitch can be set to

one of five sizes.

Select a satin stitch .

Press (Settings key) in the operation panel.

X The settings screen appears.

Press , , and (Arrow keys) until

is selected.

Press (OK key).

X The screen for changing the length of a satin

stitch appears.

Press and until the desired ratio is

selected.

The length can be set within the range of

and .

X The satin stitch length is changed.

Press (OK key).

X The initial stitch screen appears again.

● If the stitching density is too fine,

depending on the needle, the stitches may

be bunched together, causing the needle

to break.

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Sewing the Various Built-In Decorative Patterns 121

Shifting patterns

Satin stitches can be shifted to the left or right by

half the width of the pattern, allowing you to create a

step-shaped pattern. This is called a "step pattern".As

an example, the procedure for creating the following

pattern is described below.

Select the first pattern in the satin stitch group

Press the + key in the operation panel.

X The screen for selecting a pattern appears

again.

Select or to specify the direction in

which the next pattern is shifted.

X The next pattern selected is moved half a

width to either the right or the left.

Press the + key in the operation panel.

X The screen for selecting a pattern appears

again.

Select the next pattern.

X The patterns are combined.

Specify that the patterns will be sewn

repeatedly.

• For details, refer to "Repeat sewing patterns"

(page 117).

■ Examples of step patterns

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122

Mirror imaging the pattern

The pattern can be mirror imaged along a vertical

axis.

Select a stitch.

Press (Settings key) in the operation panel.

X The settings screen appears.

Press , , and (Arrow keys) until

is selected.

Press (OK key).

X The screen for mirror imaging the pattern

appears.

Press to select .

To return to , press .

X The pattern is mirror imaged.

Press (OK key).

X The initial stitch screen appears again.

a Normal

b Mirror-imaged

Memo

z Some of the utility and decorative patterns

can be mirror imaged.

z Mirror imaged patterns can also be

combined with other patterns.

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Sewing the Various Built-In Decorative Patterns 123

Storing 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. This is

convenient for patterns, such as names, that will be

used often. Up to five patterns can be stored.

■ Storing a pattern

Create the combined pattern that you wish to

store.

• For details, refer to "Combining patterns"

(page 116).

Press (Stitch selection key) in the operation

panel.

X The screen containing the various types of

stitches appears.

Press , , and (Arrow keys) until

is selected.

Press (OK key).

X The screen for selecting the storage location

(pocket) appears.

Press and until the pocket (1 through 5)

where you wish to store the pattern is

selected.

indicates an empty pocket. indicates a

pocket where a pattern is already stored.

Press (OK key).

X The contents of the selected pocket are

displayed.

Check the contents, and then press (OK

key).

The contents stored in the pocket are

overwritten.

X "Saving..." appears while the pattern is being

stored in the pocket.

• Do not turn off the sewing machine while a

pattern is being stored, otherwise the pattern

data may be lost.

X After the pattern is stored, the initial stitch

screen appears again.

■ Recalling a pattern

Press (Stitch selection key) in the operation

panel.

X The screen containing the various types of

stitches appears.

Press , , and (Arrow keys) until

is selected.

Press (OK key).

X The screen for selecting a pocket appears.

Press and until the pocket containing the

pattern that you wish to recall is selected.

A pattern is stored in the pocket.

Press (OK key).

X The contents of the selected pocket are

displayed.

Check the contents, and then press (OK

key).

To select a different pocket, press (Back

key).

X The initial stitch screen appears again, and

the pattern from the selected pocket is

recalled.

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124

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 that used for

your project.

Attach monogramming foot "N".

• For details, refer to "Replacing the presser

foot" (page 37).

Press (Stitch selection key) in the operation

panel.

X The screen containing the various types of

stitches appears.

Press , , and (Arrow keys) until

is selected, and then select .

X The pattern alignment stitch is selected.

Start sewing.

X The pattern for making the adjustment is

sewn.

X The sewing machine stops after it has

finished sewing the pattern.

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 appears as shown below, the

stitching is misaligned in the vertical direction.

If the pattern appears as shown below, the

stitching is misaligned in the horizontal

direction.

If the pattern is not sewn correctly, follow the

steps below to adjust the sewing.

Press (Settings key) in the operation panel.

X The settings screen appears.

Press , , and (Arrow keys) until

or is selected.

To adjust the vertical position, select . To

adjust the horizontal position, select .

Press (OK key).

X The screen for adjusting the pattern appears.

■ Vertical pattern adjustment

■ Horizontal pattern adjustment

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Sewing the Various Built-In Decorative Patterns 125

Press (–) or (+).

X Make the necessary adjustments according

to how the pattern is sewn.

■ Vertical pattern adjustment

Press to increase the adjustment setting.

Press to decrease the adjustment setting.

■ Horizontal pattern adjustment

Press to increase the adjustment setting.

Press to decrease the adjustment setting.

Start sewing again, and then check the pattern.

Continue adjusting the pattern until it is sewn

correctly.

When the pattern is sewn correctly, press

(OK key).

X The initial stitch screen appears again.

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126

Designing a Pattern

With the My Custom Stitch function, you can sew stitch patterns that you design yourself.

Drawing a sketch of the

pattern

Prepare a grid sheet set.

Draw a sketch of the pattern on the grid sheet

set.

Draw the pattern as one continuous line and

with the start point and the end point of the

design at the same height.

If the pattern will be repeated, determine the

space between the repeating patterns.

Mark the points in the pattern that are

positioned at intersections in the grid, and

then link those points with a continuous

straight line.

Determine the sewing order.

For a more attractive stitch, close the pattern by

intersecting the line.

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 126 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

Designing a Pattern 127

Entering the pattern data

Follow the pattern drawn on the grid sheet and

program the pattern into the sewing machine.

Attach monogramming foot "N".

• For details, refer to "Replacing the presser

foot" (page 37).

Turn on the sewing machine.

Press (Stitch selection key) in the operation

panel.

X The screen containing the various types of

stitches appears.

Press , , and (Arrow keys) until

is selected, and then press (OK key).

X The screen for entering a pattern appears.

a Number of the current point/Total number of

points

b Horizontal coordinate (0–75)

c Vertical coordinate (0–14)

Check the grid sheet set, and specify the

coordinates of the first point.

Press and to select the horizontal

coordinate and press and to select the

vertical coordinate, and then press (OK

key).

Specify the coordinates of the second point,

and then press (OK key).

X A screen appears, allowing you to specify

the settings for the stitching between the two

points.

Specify whether single stitching or triple

stitching will be sewn between the points.

Press and to select for single stitching or

for triple stitching, and then press (OK

key).

X A screen for selecting the next operation

appears.

Select , and then press (OK key).

• If you make a mistake while specifying a

point, press the C key to erase the last point

specified.

X A screen for specifying the next point

appears.

Repeat steps f through h to specify each

point.

Up to 99 points can be entered.

After all points in the pattern have been

specified, select in the screen that appears

in step

h, and then press (OK key).

X The embroidery screen appears.

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128

Specify the various stitching settings, such as

reverse/reinforcement stitching, in the same

way as with other stitches.

• With this screen displayed, pressing

(Back key) allows you to add or remove

points.

Memo

z To store the entered pattern data, store it

from the embroidery screen. For details,

refer to "Storing a pattern" (page 123).

z The pattern in the LCD will appear different

from the pattern drawn in the grid sheet set

and the actual sewn stitch. Also, refer to

these when entering the design.

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Designing a Pattern 129

Examples of designs

Enter each of the points indicated in the table to sew the sample stitch.

Point Point

0 0020 38 13

1 12 0 21 35 14

2 18 3 22 32 13

3 22 6 23 30 10

4 23 10 24 32 6

5 21 13 25 35 3

6 17 14 26 41 0

7 14 13 27 45 0

8 12 11 28 47 4

9 91329 44 7

10 61430 45 11

11 31331 47 13

12 11032 50 14

13 3633 54 13

14 6334 56 10

15 12 0 35 55 6

16 41 0 36 51 3

17 43 4 37 45 0

18 40 7 38 70 0

19 41 11

Point Point

0 0020 10 11

1 30 0 21 12 10

2 32 1 22 89

3 32 7 23 12 8

4 32 10 24 76

5 33 12 25 12 6

6 35 11 26 63

7 35 8 27 10 2

8 37 12 28 50

9 35 14 29 10 2

10 32 14 30 16 1

11 30 11 31 19 0

12 30 5 32 23 0

13 29 3 33 22 6

14 26 8 34 17 10

15 24 10 35 22 6

16 18 13 36 23 0

17 13 14 37 19 0

18 12 14 38 42 0

19 13 12

Point Point

0 0020 16 10

1 3521 18 12

2 5822 21 13

3 81123 25 14

4 12 13 24 28 14

5 17 14 25 33 13

6 20 14 26 37 11

7 24 13 27 41 8

8 27 12 28 43 5

9 29 11 29 44 0

10 31 9

11 32 6

12 30 3

13 27 1

14 24 0

15 21 0

16 18 1

17 16 3

18 15 5

19 15 8

Point Point

0 0720 20 11

1 5721 21 7

2 4322 24 7

3 5723 23 14

4 8724 24 7

5 7025 27 7

6 8726 27 11

7 11 7 27 27 7

8 11 3 28 32 7

9 11 7 29 27 11

10 16 7 30 23 14

11 11 3 31 20 11

12 7032 16 7

13 4333 20 3

14 0734 23 0

15 41135 27 3

16 71436 32 7

17 11 11

18 16 7

19 21 7

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130

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4 APPENDIX

The various maintenance and troubleshooting procedures are described in this chapter.

Stitch Settings........................................................................................................132

Maintenance..........................................................................................................140

Troubleshooting ....................................................................................................142

Index .....................................................................................................................150

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132

Stitch Settings

Applications, stitch lengths and widths and whether the twin needle can be used are listed for utility

stitches in the following table.

Utility stitches

Stitch Name

Pattern

Presser Foot

Application

Stitch Width

[mm (inch.)]

Stitch Length

[mm (inch.)]

Twin Needle

Reverse/

Reinforcement

Stitching

Programmed

Thread-Cutting

Walking Foot

Auto Manual Auto Manual

Straight

stitch

Left

Basic stitching, sewing

gathers or pintucks, etc.

0.0

(0)

0.0–7.0

(0–1/4)

2.5

(3/32)

0.2–5.0

(1/64–3/16)

Yes Reverse

Reverse +

thread-cutting

Basic stitching and

sewing gathers or

pintucks

0.0

(0)

0.0–7.0

(0–1/4)

2.5

(3/32)

0.2–5.0

(1/64–3/16)

Yes Reinforcement

Reinforcement +

thread-cutting

Yes

Center

J/I

Attaching zippers, basic

stitching, sewing gathers

or pintucks, etc.

––

2.5

(3/32)

0.2–5.0

(1/64–3/16)

Yes Reverse

Reverse +

thread-cutting

Triple

stretch

stitch

Attaching sleeves, sewing

inseams, sewing stretch

fabrics and decorative

stitching

0.0

(0)

0.0–7.0

(0–1/4)

2.5

(3/32)

1.5–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

Yes Reinforcement

Reinforcement +

thread-cutting

Stretch

stitch

Sewing stretch fabrics and

decorative stitching

1.0

(1/16)

1.0–3.0

(1/16–1/8)

2.5

(3/32)

1.0–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

Yes Reinforcement

Reinforcement +

thread-cutting

Basting

stitch

J Temporarily securing

0.0

(0)

0.0–7.0

(0–1/4)

(3/4)

5-30

(3/16-

1-3/16)

No Reinforcement

Reinforcement +

thread-cutting

Zigzag

stitch

Center

Overcasting and

attaching appliqués

3.5

(1/8)

0.0–7.0

(0–1/4)

1.4

(1/16)

0.0–4.0

(0–3/16)

Yes Reverse

Reverse +

thread-cutting

Right

Beginning sewing from

the right needle position

3.5

(1/8)

2.5–5.0

(3/32–3/16)

1.4

(1/16)

0.3–4.0

(1/64–3/16)

Yes Reinforcement

Reinforcement +

thread-cutting

Yes

2-point

zigzag stitch

Overcasting on

mediumweight or stretch

fabrics, attaching elastic,

darning, etc.

5.0

(3/16)

1.5–7.0

(1/16–1/4)

1.0

(1/16)

0.2–4.0

(1/64–3/16)

Yes Reinforcement

Reinforcement +

thread-cutting

Yes

3-point

zigzag stitch

Overcasting on

mediumweight or stretch

fabrics, attaching elastic,

darning, etc.

5.0

(3/16)

1.5–7.0

(1/16–1/4)

1.0

(1/16)

0.2–4.0

(1/64–3/16)

Yes Reinforcement

Reinforcement +

thread-cutting

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 132 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

Stitch Settings 133

Overcasting

stitch

Overcasting on thin or

mediumweight fabrics

3.5

(1/8)

2.5–5.0

(3/32–3/16)

2.0

(1/16)

1.0–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

No Reinforcement

Reinforcement +

thread-cutting

Overcasting on thick

fabrics

5.0

(3/16)

2.5–5.0

(3/32–3/16)

2.5

(3/32)

1.0–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

No Reinforcement

Reinforcement +

thread-cutting

Overcasting on thick

fabrics and decorative

stitching

5.0

(3/16)

3.5–5.0

(1/8–3/16)

2.5

(3/32)

1.0–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

No Reinforcement

Reinforcement +

thread-cutting

Overcasting on stretch

fabrics

5.0

(3/16)

0.0–7.0

(0–1/4)

2.5

(3/32)

0.5–4.0

(1/32–3/16)

Yes Reinforcement

Reinforcement +

thread-cutting

Overcasting on thick or

stretch fabrics

5.0

(3/16)

0.0–7.0

(0–1/4)

2.5

(3/32)

0.5–4.0

(1/32–3/16)

Yes Reinforcement

Reinforcement +

thread-cutting

Overcasting on stretch

fabrics and decorative

stitching

4.0

(3/16)

0.0–7.0

(0–1/4)

4.0

(3/16)

1.0–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

Yes Reinforcement

Reinforcement +

thread-cutting

Blind hem

stitch

Blind hem stitching on

mediumweight fabrics

0.0

(0)

3← – 3→

2.0

(1/16)

1.0–3.5

(1/16–1/8)

No Reinforcement

Reinforcement +

thread-cutting

Blind hem stitching on

stretch fabrics

0.0

(0)

3← – 3→

2.0

(1/16)

1.0–3.5

(1/16–1/8)

No Reinforcement

Reinforcement +

thread-cutting

Appliqué

stitch

J Appliqué stitching

3.5

(1/8)

2.5–5.0

(3/32–3/16)

2.5

(3/32)

1.6–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

Yes Reinforcement

Reinforcement +

thread-cutting

Shell tuck

stitch

J Shell tuck stitching

4.0

(3/16)

0.0–7.0

(0–1/4)

2.5

(3/32)

0.2–4.0

(1/64–3/16)

Yes Reinforcement

Reinforcement +

thread-cutting

Satin scallop

stitch

N Scallop stitching

5.0

(3/16)

2.5–7.0

(3/32–1/4)

0.5

(1/32)

0.1–1.0

(1/64–1/16)

Yes Reinforcement

Reinforcement +

thread-cutting

Joining

stitch

Patchwork stitching and

decorative stitching

4.0

(3/16)

0.0–7.0

(0–1/4)

1.2

(1/16)

0.2–4.0

(1/64–3/16)

Yes Reinforcement

Reinforcement +

thread-cutting

Patchwork stitching,

decorative stitching and

sewing overcasting on

both pieces of fabric,

such as with tricot

5.0

(3/16)

2.5–7.0

(3/32–1/4)

2.5

(3/32)

1.0–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

Yes Reinforcement

Reinforcement +

thread-cutting

Patchwork stitching and

decorative stitching

5.0

(3/16)

0.0–7.0

(0–1/4)

1.2

(1/16)

0.2–4.0

(1/64–3/16)

Yes Reinforcement

Reinforcement +

thread-cutting

Smocking

stitch

Smocking stitching and

decorative stitching

5.0

(3/16)

0.0–7.0

(0–1/4)

1.6

(1/16)

1.0–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

Yes Reinforcement

Reinforcement +

thread-cutting

Fagoting

stitch

Fagoting and decorative

stitching

5.0

(3/16)

0.0–7.0

(0–1/4)

2.5

(3/32)

1.0–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

Yes Reinforcement

Reinforcement +

thread-cutting

Fagoting and decorative

stitching

5.0

(3/16)

2.5–7.0

(3/32–1/4)

2.5

(3/32)

1.0–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

Yes Reinforcement

Reinforcement +

thread-cutting

Elastic-

attaching

stitch

Attaching elastic to

stretch fabrics

4.0

(3/16)

0.0–7.0

(0–1/4)

1.0

(1/16)

0.2–4.0

(1/64–3/16)

Yes Reinforcement

Reinforcement +

thread-cutting

Stitch Name

Pattern

Presser Foot

Application

Stitch Width

[mm (inch.)]

Stitch Length

[mm (inch.)]

Twin Needle

Reverse/

Reinforcement

Stitching

Programmed

Thread-Cutting

Walking Foot

Auto Manual Auto Manual

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 133 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

APPENDIX — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —

134

Decorative

stitch

J Decorative stitching

4.0

(3/16)

0.0–7.0

(0–1/4)

3.0

(1/8)

2.0–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

No Reinforcement

Reinforcement +

thread-cutting

J Decorative stitching

4.0

(3/16)

0.0–7.0

(0–1/4)

2.5

(3/32)

1.0–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

Yes Reinforcement

Reinforcement +

thread-cutting

J Decorative stitching

5.5

(7/32)

0.0–7.0

(0–1/4)

1.6

(1/16)

1.0–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

Yes Reinforcement

Reinforcement +

thread-cutting

Decorative stitching and

elastic-attaching

5.0

(3/16)

1.5–7.0

(1/16–1/4)

1.0

(1/16)

0.2–4.0

(1/64–3/16)

Yes Reinforcement

Reinforcement +

thread-cutting

Lace sewing, decorative

hemming, heirloom

stitching, etc.

3.5

(1/8)

1.5–7.0

(1/16–1/4)

2.5

(3/32)

1.6–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

No Reinforcement

Reinforcement +

thread-cutting

Decorative hemming,

heirloom stitching, etc.

6.0

(15/64)

1.5–7.0

(1/16–1/4)

3.0

(1/8)

1.5–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

No Reinforcement

Reinforcement +

thread-cutting

Decorative hemming on

thin, mediumweight and

plain weave fabrics,

heirloom stitching, etc.

5.0

(3/16)

1.5–7.0

(1/16–1/4)

3.5

(1/8)

1.5–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

No Reinforcement

Reinforcement +

thread-cutting

Decorative hemming on

thin, mediumweight and

plain weave fabrics,

heirloom stitching, etc.

5.0

(3/16)

1.5–7.0

(1/16–1/4)

4.0

(3/16)

1.5–4.0

1/16–3/16)

Yes Reinforcement

Reinforcement +

thread-cutting

Decorative hemming on

thin, mediumweight and

plain weave fabrics,

heirloom stitching, etc.

5.0

(3/16)

1.5–7.0

(1/16–1/4)

2.5

(3/32)

1.5–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

Yes Reinforcement

Reinforcement +

thread-cutting

Decorative hemming on

thin, mediumweight and

plain weave fabrics,

heirloom stitching, etc.

5.0

(3/16)

1.5–7.0

(1/16–1/4)

2.0

(1/16)

1.5–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

Yes Reinforcement

Reinforcement +

thread-cutting

Decorative hemming,

ribbon threading,

heirloom stitching, etc.

5.0

(3/16)

1.5–7.0

(1/16–1/4)

3.0

(1/8)

1.5–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

Yes Reinforcement

Reinforcement +

thread-cutting

Decorative stitching,

smocking stitching,

heirloom stitching, etc.

6.0

(15/64)

1.5–7.0

(1/16–1/4)

1.6

(1/16)

1.0–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

No Reinforcement

Reinforcement +

thread-cutting

Decorative stitching,

smocking stitching,

heirloom stitching, etc.

5.0

(3/16)

1.5–7.0

(1/16–1/4)

1.6

(1/16)

1.0–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

No Reinforcement

Reinforcement +

thread-cutting

Stitch Name

Pattern

Presser Foot

Application

Stitch Width

[mm (inch.)]

Stitch Length

[mm (inch.)]

Twin Needle

Reverse/

Reinforcement

Stitching

Programmed

Thread-Cutting

Walking Foot

Auto Manual Auto Manual

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 134 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

Stitch Settings 135

Buttonhole

stitch

Horizontal buttonholes

on thin and

mediumweight 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)

Automatic

reinforcement

Thread-cutting No

Horizontal buttonholes

on areas that are subject

to strain

5.0

(3/16)

3.0–5.0

(1/8–3/16)

0.4

(1/64)

0.2–1.0

(1/64–1/16)

Automatic

reinforcement

Thread-cutting No

Horizontal buttonholes

on thick 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)

Automatic

reinforcement

Thread-cutting No

Secured buttonholes for

fabrics that have backings

5.0

(3/16)

3.0–5.0

(1/8–3/16)

0.4

(1/64)

0.2–1.0

(1/64–1/16)

Automatic

reinforcement

Thread-cutting No

Buttonholes for stretch or

knit fabrics

6.0

(15/54)

3.0–6.0

(1/8– 15/

64)

1.0

(1/16)

0.5–2.0

(1/32–1/16)

Automatic

reinforcement

Thread-cutting No

Buttonholes for stretch

fabrics

6.0

(15/54)

3.0–6.0

(1/8– 15/

64)

1.5

(1/16)

1.0–3.0

(1/16–1/8)

Automatic

reinforcement

Thread-cutting No

A 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)

Automatic

reinforcement

Thread-cutting No

Keyhole buttonholes for

thick or furry 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)

Automatic

reinforcement

Thread-cutting No

Keyhole buttonholes for

mediumweight and 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)

Automatic

reinforcement

Thread-cutting No

Horizontal buttonholes

for thick or furry 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)

Automatic

reinforcement

Thread-cutting No

Darning

stitch

Darning mediumweight

fabrics

7.0

(1/4)

2.5–7.0

(3/32–1/4)

2.0

(1/16)

0.4–2.5

(1/64–3/32)

Automatic

reinforcement

Thread-cutting No

A Darning thick fabrics

7.0

(1/4)

2.5–7.0

(3/32–1/4)

2.0

(1/16)

0.4–2.5

(1/64–3/32)

Automatic

reinforcement

Thread-cutting No

Bar tack

stitch

Reinforcing openings and

areas where the seam

easily comes loose

2.0

(1/16)

1.0–3.0

(1/16–1/8)

0.4

(1/64)

0.3–1.0

(1/64–1/16)

Automatic

reinforcement

Thread-cutting No

Button-

sewing

stitch

M Button sewing

3.5

(1/8)

2.5–4.5

(3/32–3/16)

– – No Reinforcement

Reinforcement +

thread-cutting

Eyelet stitch

Sewing eyelets, for

example, on belts

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)

Automatic

reinforcement

Thread-cutting No

Piecing

straight

stitch

Piecing straight stitching

(with a seam allowance of

6.5 mm from the right

edge of the presser foot)

5.5

(7/32)

0.0–7.0

(0–1/4)

1.6

(1/16)

0.2–5.0

(1/64–3/16)

No Reinforcement

Reinforcement +

thread-cutting

Piecing straight stitching

(with a seam allowance of

6.5 mm from the left edge

of the presser foot)

1.5

(1/16)

0.0–7.0

(0–1/4)

1.6

(1/16)

0.2–5.0

(1/64–3/16)

No Reinforcement

Reinforcement +

thread-cutting

Yes

Straight

stitch that

looks

hand-sewn

(for quilting)

Straight stitch quilting that

looks hand-sewn

0.0

(0)

0.0–7.0

(0–1/4)

2.5

(3/32)

1.0–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

No Reinforcement

Reinforcement +

thread-cutting

Zigzag

stitch

(for quilting)

Appliqué quilting, free-

motion quilting, satin

stitching

3.5

(1/8)

0.0–7.0

(0–1/4)

1.4

(1/16)

0.0–4.0

(0–3/16)

No Reinforcement

Reinforcement +

thread-cutting

Yes

Stitch Name

Pattern

Presser Foot

Application

Stitch Width

[mm (inch.)]

Stitch Length

[mm (inch.)]

Twin Needle

Reverse/

Reinforcement

Stitching

Programmed

Thread-Cutting

Walking Foot

Auto Manual Auto Manual

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 135 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

APPENDIX — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —

136

Appliqué

stitch

(for quilting)

Attaching appliqués and

binding

1.5

(1/16)

0.5–5.0

(1/32–3/16)

1.2

(1/16)

1.0–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

No Reinforcement

Reinforcement +

thread-cutting

Quilting

stitch

(for

stippling)

Quilting background

stitching (stippling)

7.0

(1/4)

1.0–-7.0

(1/16–1/4)

1.6

(1/16)

1.0–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

No Reinforcement

Reinforcement +

thread-cutting

Side cutter

Sewing straight stitches

while cutting the fabric

0.0

(0)

0.0–2.5

(0–3/32)

2.5

(3/32)

0.2–5.0

(1/64–3/16)

No Reinforcement

Reinforcement +

thread-cutting

Sewing zigzag stitches

while cutting the fabric

3.5

(1/8)

3.5–5.0

(1/8–3/16)

1.4

(1/16)

0.0–4.0

(0–3/16)

No Reinforcement

Reinforcement +

thread-cutting

Overcasting on thin and

mediumweight fabrics

while cutting the fabric

3.5

(1/8)

3.5–5.0

(1/8–3/16)

2.0

(1/16)

1.0–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

No Reinforcement

Reinforcement +

thread-cutting

Overcasting on thick

fabrics while cutting the

fabric

5.0

(3/16)

3.5–5.0

(1/8–3/16)

2.5

(3/32)

1.0–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

No Reinforcement

Reinforcement +

thread-cutting

Overcasting on

mediumweight and thick

fabrics while cutting the

fabric

5.0

(3/16)

3.5–5.0

(1/8–3/16)

2.5

(3/32)

1.0–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

No Reinforcement

Reinforcement +

thread-cutting

Horizontal

straight

stitch

Attaching appliqués to

sleeves (straight stitch

sewn to the left)

– – – – No Reinforcement

Reinforcement +

thread-cutting

Attaching appliqués to

sleeves (straight stitch

sewn to the right)

– – – – No Reinforcement

Reinforcement +

thread-cutting

Horizontal

zigzag stitch

Attaching appliqués to

sleeves (zigzag stitch

sewn to the left)

– – – – No Reinforcement

Reinforcement +

thread-cutting

Attaching appliqués to

sleeves (zigzag stitch

sewn to the right)

– – – – No Reinforcement

Reinforcement +

thread-cutting

Stitch Name

Pattern

Presser Foot

Application

Stitch Width

[mm (inch.)]

Stitch Length

[mm (inch.)]

Twin Needle

Reverse/

Reinforcement

Stitching

Programmed

Thread-Cutting

Walking Foot

Auto Manual Auto Manual

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 136 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

Stitch Settings 137

Other stitches

** Pattern for making adjustment

Stitch Type Pattern

Presser Foot

Twin Needle

Pattern Size

Adjustable

Stitching Density

Adjustable Pattern

Length/width

Left/Right Flipping

Decorative

stitches

1 2345678910

NNo

Large,

Small

Large:

Small:

Yes

(*Not

possible)

Yes

11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20

21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29* 30*

31**

Satin

stitches

1 2345678910

Yes

(*Not

possible)

Large No

Yes

(*Not

possible)

Yes

(*Not

possible)

11 12 13 14 15 16 17* 18*

Cross-

stitches

1 23456*7*8*9*10*

NNoLargeNo

Yes

(*Not

possible)

Yes

Decorative

satin

stitches

1 2345678910

NNo

Large,

Small

Yes

(length

only)

Yes

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 137 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

APPENDIX — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —

138

Stitch Type Pattern

Presser Foot

Twin Needle

Pattern Size

Adjustable

Stitching Density

Adjustable Pattern

Length/width

Left/Right Flipping

Character

stitches

(Gothic font)

12345678910

NNo

Large,

Small

No No Yes

11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20

21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30

31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40

41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50

51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60

61 62 63 64 65 66 67 68 69 70

71 72 73 74 75 76 77 78 79 80

81 82 83 84 85 86 87 88 89 90

91 92 93 94 95 96 97

Character

stitches

(Script font)

12345678910

N No Large No No Yes

11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20

21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30

31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40

41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50

51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60

61 62 63 64 65 66 67 68 69 70

71 72 73 74 75 76 77 78 79 80

81 82 83 84 85 86 87 88 89 90

91 92 93 94 95 96 97

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 138 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

Stitch Settings 139

Character

stitches

(Outline

style)

12345678910

NNo

Large,

Small

No No Yes

11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20

21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30

31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40

41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50

51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60

61 62 63 64 65 66 67 68 69 70

71 72 73 74 75 76 77 78 79 80

81 82 83 84 85 86 87 88 89 90

91 92 93 94 95 96 97

Stitch Type Pattern

Presser Foot

Twin Needle

Pattern Size

Adjustable

Stitching Density

Adjustable Pattern

Length/width

Left/Right Flipping

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 139 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

APPENDIX — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —

140

Maintenance

Simple sewing machine maintenance operations are described below.

Cleaning the machine surface

If the surface of the machine is dirty, lightly soak a

cloth in neutral detergent, squeeze it out firmly, and

then wipe the surface of the machine. After cleaning

it once with a wet cloth, wipe it again with a dry

cloth.

CAUTION

Cleaning the shuttle

Sewing performance will suffer if dust collects in the

shuttle; therefore, it should be cleaned periodically.

Turn off the sewing machine.

CAUTION

Grasp both sides of the needle plate cover, and

then slide it toward you.

a Bobbin cover

X The needle plate cover is removed.

Turn the balance wheel toward you until the

tip of the shuttle hook aligns with the edge of

the race shelf.

a Shuttle race

b Shuttle

c Edge of the shuttle race

d Tip of the shuttle hook

● Unplug the power supply cord before

cleaning the machine, otherwise injuries

or an electric shock may occur.

● Unplug the power supply cord before

cleaning the machine, otherwise injuries

or an electric shock may occur.

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 140 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

Maintenance 141

• Be sure to turn the balance wheel toward

you. Turning the balance wheel away from

you may damage the machine.

Remove the shuttle.

Grasp the shuttle, and then pull it out.

a Shuttle

Use the cleaning brush or a vacuum cleaner to

remove any lint and dust from the race and its

surrounding area.

a Cleaning brush

b Shuttle race

• Do not apply oil to the shuttle.

Check that the edge of the race shelf is

positioned as in step

c, and then insert the

shuttle so that the projection on the shuttle

aligns with the spring.

a Projection

b Spring

Insert the tabs on the needle plate cover into

the needle plate, and then slide the cover back

on.

CAUTION

● Never use a shuttle that is scratched,

otherwise the upper thread may become

tangled, the needle may break or sewing

performance may suffer. For a new

shuttle (part code: XC3153-051), contact

your nearest authorized service center.

● Be sure that the shuttle is correctly

installed, otherwise the needle may break.

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 141 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

APPENDIX — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —

142

Troubleshooting

If the machine stops operating correctly, check the following possible problems before requesting service.

If the problem persists, contact your retailer or the nearest authorized service center.

Symptom Probable Cause Remedy Reference

The sewing

machine does not

operate.

The machine is not turned on. Turn on the machine. page 11

The start/stop button was not

pressed.

Press the start/stop button. page 48

The presser foot lever is raised. Lower the presser foot lever. –

The start/stop button was pressed,

even though the foot controller is

connected.

Do not use the start/stop button

when the foot controller is

connected. To use the start/stop

button, disconnect the foot

controller.

page 48

The needle breaks.

The needle is incorrectly installed. Correctly install the needle.

page 35The needle clamp screw is loose.

Use the screwdriver to firmly

tighten the screw.

The needle is bent or blunt. Replace the needle.

The combination of fabric, thread

and needle is not correct.

Select a thread and needle that

are appropriate for the type of

fabric being sewn.

page 34

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.

page 132

The upper thread tension is too tight. Loosen the upper thread tension. page 53

The fabric is pulled too much. Lightly guide the fabric. –

The spool is incorrectly installed. Correctly install the spool. page 24

The area around the hole in the

needle plate is scratched, or has a

burr on it.

Replace the needle plate. Contact

your retailer or the nearest

authorized service center.

–

The area around the hole in the

presser foot is scratched, or has a

burr on it.

Replace the presser foot. Contact

your retailer or the nearest

authorized service center.

–

The shuttle is scratched, or has a burr

on it.

Replace the shuttle. Contact your

retailer or the nearest authorized

service center.

–

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.

page 18

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 142 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

Troubleshooting 143

The upper thread

breaks.

The upper thread was not threaded

correctly (for example, the spool is

not installed correctly, the spool cap

is too big for the spool being used, or

the thread has come out of the

needle bar thread hook).

Correct the upper threading. page 24

There are knots or tangles in the

thread.

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.

page 34

The upper thread tension is too tight. Loosen the upper thread tension. page 53

The thread is tangled, for example, in

the shuttle.

Remove the tangle thread. If the

thread is tangled in the shuttle,

clean the shuttle.

page 140

The needle is bent or blunt. Replace the needle.

page 35

The needle is incorrectly installed. Correctly install the needle.

The area around the hole in the

needle plate is scratched, or has a

burr on it.

Replace the needle plate. Contact

your retailer or the nearest

authorized service center.

–

The area around the hole in the

presser foot is scratched, or has a

burr on it.

Replace the presser foot. Contact

your retailer or the nearest

authorized service center.

–

The shuttle is scratched, or has a burr

on it.

Replace the shuttle. Contact your

retailer or the nearest authorized

service center.

–

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.

page 18

The lower thread is

tangled or breaks.

The bobbin thread is incorrectly

installed.

Correctly install the bobbin

thread.

page 22

The bobbin is scratched or does not

rotate smoothly, or has a burr on it.

Replace the bobbin. –

The thread is tangled.

Remove the tangled thread and

clean the shuttle.

page 140

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.

page 18

Symptom Probable Cause Remedy Reference

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 143 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

APPENDIX — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —

144

The thread tension

is incorrect.

The upper thread was not threaded

correctly.

Correct the upper threading. page 24

The bobbin thread is incorrectly

installed.

Correctly install the bobbin

thread.

page 22

The combination of fabric, thread

and needle is not correct.

Select a thread and needle that

are appropriate for the type of

fabric being sewn.

page 34

The presser foot holder is incorrectly

installed.

Correctly install the presser foot

holder.

page 39

The thread tension is incorrect.

Adjust the tension of the upper

thread.

page 53

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.

page 18

The fabric is

wrinkled.

The upper thread was not threaded

correctly, or the bobbin is incorrectly

installed.

Correctly thread the upper thread

and correctly install the bobbin

thread.

page 22,

page 24

The spool is incorrectly installed. Correctly install the spool. page 24

The combination of fabric, thread

and needle is not correct.

Select a thread and needle that

are appropriate for the type of

fabric being sewn.

page 34

The needle is bent or blunt. Replace the needle. page 35

If thin fabrics are being sewn, the

stitch is too long.

Shorten the stitch length or sew

with stabilizer material under the

fabric.

page 56

The thread tension is incorrect.

Adjust the tension of the upper

thread.

page 53

Stitches are

skipped.

The upper thread was not threaded

correctly.

Correct the upper threading. page 24

The combination of fabric, thread

and needle is not correct.

Select a thread and needle that

are appropriate for the type of

fabric being sewn.

page 34

The needle is bent or blunt. Replace the needle. page 35

The needle is incorrectly installed. Correctly install the needle. page 35

Dust has accumulated under the

needle plate or in the shuttle.

Remove the needle plate cover

and clean the shuttle.

page 140

Symptom Probable Cause Remedy Reference

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 144 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

Troubleshooting 145

A high-pitched

noise is made while

sewing.

Dust has accumulated in the feed

dogs or in the shuttle.

Clean the shuttle. page 140

The upper thread was not threaded

correctly.

Correct the upper threading. page 24

The shuttle is scratched, or has a burr

on it.

Replace the shuttle.Contact your

retailer or the nearest authorized

service center.

–

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.

page 18

The needle threader

cannot be used.

The needle was not raised.

Press the needle position button

to raise the needle.

page 27

The needle is incorrectly installed. Correctly install the needle. page 35

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.

page 132

The thread tension is incorrect.

Adjust the tension of the upper

thread.

page 53

The thread is tangled, for example, in

the shuttle.

Remove the tangle thread. If the

thread is tangled in the shuttle,

clean the shuttle.

page 140

The fabric does not

feed.

The feed dogs are lowered.

Slide the drop feed lever to the

left.

page 97

The stitch is too close. Lengthen the stitch length. page 56

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.

page 132

The pressure of the presser foot is

weak.

Turn the presser foot pressure dial

to the right to increase the

pressure of the presser foot.

page 39

The thread is tangled, for example, in

the shuttle.

Remove the tangle thread. If the

thread is tangled in the shuttle,

clean the shuttle.

page 140

The sewing lamp

does not come on.

The sewing lamp is damaged.

Contact your retailer or the

nearest authorized service center.

–

Nothing appears in

the LCD.

The brightness of the LCD is either

too light or too dark.

Adjust the brightness of the LCD. page 147

Symptom Probable Cause Remedy Reference

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 145 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

APPENDIX — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —

146

Error messages

If the start/stop button is pressed before the sewing machine is correctly set up or if an operation is performed

incorrectly, an error message appears in the LCD. Follow the instructions that appear. If you press (OK key),

(Back key) or do the operation correctly while the error message is displayed, the message disappears.

Error Message Probable Cause

The motor locked up because the thread is tangled.

The start/stop button, reverse/reinforcement stitch button or thread

cutter button was pressed while the presser foot was raised.

The reverse/reinforcement stitch button, needle position button or

thread cutter button was pressed while the bobbin winder shaft is

moved to the right.

The start/stop button was pressed while the foot controller was

connected.

A stitch other than the buttonhole, bar tack or darning stitch was

selected and the start/stop button was pressed while the buttonhole

lever is lowered.

The buttonhole, bar tack or darning stitch was selected and the start/

stop button was pressed while the buttonhole lever is raised.

The start/stop button or reverse/reinforcement stitch button was pressed

after a stitch has been deleted.

A pattern is being stored.

The bobbin winder is winding the bobbin.

More than 71 patterns are being combined.

The start/stop button was pressed without connecting the foot controller

while the setting for adjusting the stitch width using the sewing speed

controller is set to [ON].

The twin needle setting is selected while a pattern that cannot be sewn

with the twin needle is selected.

The first pattern was selected while two or more patterns are combined.

The selected setting cannot be changed with the selected pattern.

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 146 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

Troubleshooting 147

Nothing appears in the LCD

If nothing appears in the LCD when the sewing

machine is turned on, the brightness of the LCD is

either too light or too dark. If this is the case, perform

the following operation.

Turn off the sewing machine.

While pressing (Back key) in the operation

panel, turn on the sewing machine.

Press (–) or (+).

Adjust the brightness of the LCD so that the

screens can be seen.

Turn off the sewing machine, then turn it on

again.

Easily adjusting the thread

tension

The sewing machine can be set up so that the tension

of the upper thread can easily be adjusted.

Turn off the sewing machine.

While holding (Settings key) in the

operation panel pressed, turn on the sewing

machine.

When the sewing machine beeps, release

(Settings key).

X The tension of the upper thread can now be

adjusted using the stitch keys.

■ To decrease the tension of the upper thread

Press in the operation panel.

■ To increase the tension of the upper thread

Press in the operation panel.

a Loose

b Tight

Memo

z This setting does not change if the sewing

machine is turned off.

z If the sewing machine is set up in this way,

these keys cannot be used to select stitches.

To use these keys for selecting stitches,

perform the same operation described above

to return the sewing machine to its original

setup.

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 147 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

APPENDIX — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —

148

Operation beep

Each time a key is pressed or an incorrect operation is

performed, a beep is sounded.

■ For a correct operation

One beep is sounded.

■ If an incorrect operation is performed

Two or four beeps are sounded.

■ If the machine locks up, for example, because

the thread is tangled

The sewing machine continues to beep for four

seconds. The machine automatically stops.

Be sure to check for the cause of the error, and

correct it before continuing to sew.

Cancelling the operation beep

When the sewing machine is purchased, it is set to

beep each time an operation panel key is pressed.

This setting can be changed so that the machine does

not beep.

Turn on the sewing machine.

X The LCD comes on.

Press (Settings key) in the operation panel.

X The settings screen appears.

Press , , and (Arrow keys) until

is selected.

Press (OK key).

X The screen for changing the beep setting

appears.

Press to select .

To return to , press .

X The machine is now set so that it will not

beep.

Press (OK key).

X The initial stitch screen appears again.

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 148 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

Troubleshooting 149

Removing the upper cover

If the upper cover of the sewing machine was

removed, re-attach it as described in the following

procedure.

Hold the upper cover level.

Push the upper cover down to re-attach it to

the machine.

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 149 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

APPENDIX — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —

150

Index

Symbols

+ key ....................................................................Cover E

Numerics

1/4 inch quilting foot .....................................Cover A, 95

2-point zigzag stitch

......................................................69

3-point zigzag stitch

......................................................69

accessories ........................................................... Cover A

adjustable zipper/piping foot

..........................Cover A, 88

adjusting the thread tension

..........................................53

air vent

................................................................ Cover C

appliqué

.......................................................................93

arrow keys

............................................................Cover E

automatic reinforcement stitching

.................................57

automatic reverse stitching

............................................57

automatic thread-cutting

.......................................... 2, 58

back key ...............................................................Cover E

balance wheel

...............................................Cover C, 47

bar tack

.......................................................................100

baseline

........................................................................73

basic stitching

...............................................................73

basting

..........................................................................72

blind hem stitch

............................................................74

bobbin

...........................................................Cover A, 22

bobbin cover

.................................................Cover C, 23

bobbin thread

...............................................................22

pulling up

...............................................................31

bobbin winder

...............................................Cover B, 19

bobbin winder seat

.......................................................20

bobbin winder shaft spring

............................................19

bobbin-winding

....................................................... 2, 18

brightness

.....................................................................16

built-in stitches

...............................................................2

button sewing

........................................................ 77, 81

buttonhole foot

.............................................................80

buttonhole lever

........................... Cover C, 78, 101, 103

buttonhole stitching

......................................................76

C key ....................................................................Cover E

changing machine settings

............................................14

changing sewing direction

............................................62

changing the needle

......................................................35

changing the settings

.....................................................14

checking patterns

........................................................118

cleaning

......................................................................140

cleaning brush

.............................................Cover A, 141

combining patterns

.....................................................116

crazy quilt stitching

.......................................................94

creating patterns

.........................................................126

cross-stitch

..................................................................115

cross-wound thread

......................................................19

curves

...........................................................................62

cylindrical pieces

..........................................................42

darning .......................................................................102

decorative stitching

.....................................................107

designing patterns

.......................................................126

elastic tape ....................................................................90

electrical outlet

.............................................................11

error messages

............................................................146

even seam allowance

....................................................64

extra spool pin

.............................................. Cover A, 29

eyelet

..........................................................................104

eyelet punch

.........................................Cover A, 79, 104

fagoting .......................................................................108

features

...........................................................................2

feed dog position switch

............................... Cover C, 97

feed dogs

...................................................... Cover C, 97

flat bed attachment

.............................................. Cover B

flipping

.......................................................................122

foot controller

............................................... Cover A, 48

foot controller jack

............................................... Cover C

free-arm sewing

............................................................42

free-motion quilting

......................................................97

front view

............................................................ Cover B

handle ................................................................. Cover C

hard case

............................................................. Cover A

heirloom stitching

.......................................................112

horizontal stitching

.....................................................105

Inserting a piping ..........................................................89

joining ........................................................................111

joining stitch

.................................................................92

knee lifter ..................................................Cover A, 2, 61

knee lifter mounting slot

...................................... Cover B

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 150 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

Index 151

language .......................................................................17

LCD

................................................Cover E, 12, 16, 147

brightness

...................................................... 16, 147

leather/vinyl fabrics

.......................................................64

lower threading

........................................................ 2, 22

main power switch ........................................Cover C, 11

maintenance

...............................................................140

mirror image

...............................................................122

needle ...........................................................................33

needle bar thread hook

..................................Cover C, 26

needle clamp screw

......................................................36

needle plate

...................................................Cover C, 64

needle plate cover

......................................................140

needle position

...................................................... 55, 73

needle position button

.........................................Cover D

needle set

............................................................ Cover A

needle stop position

......................................................16

needle threader lever

.....................................Cover B, 27

non stick foot

.................................................Cover A, 64

OK key .................................................................Cover E

open toe foot

....................................................... Cover A

openings

.....................................................................100

operating procedures

....................................................13

operation beep

............................................................148

operation buttons

..................................Cover B, Cover D

operation manual

................................................. Cover A

operation panel

......................................Cover B, Cover E

optional accessories

........................................................1

original patterns

..........................................................126

overcasting stitches

.......................................................68

patchwork stitching .......................................................94

pattern length

..............................................................120

pattern size

.................................................................119

patterns

.......................................................................115

piecing

..........................................................................94

piping inserting

.............................................................89

pocket corners

............................................................100

positioning fabric

..........................................................47

power supply jack

..........................................Cover C, 11

presser foot

....................................................Cover C, 37

presser foot dial

.............................................Cover C, 39

presser foot holder

.........................................Cover C, 39

presser foot lever

..................................................Cover D

presser foot pressure

.....................................................39

programmed thread-cutting

...........................................58

quick reference guide .......................................... Cover A

quilting

.........................................................................96

quilting foot

.................................................. Cover A, 97

quilting guide

................................................ Cover A, 96

realigning ....................................................................124

realigning patterns

......................................................124

rear view

.............................................................. Cover C

recalling a pattern

.......................................................123

reinforcement stitching

................................. 50, 57, 100

repeat sewing

..............................................................117

replacing the needle

.............................................. 33, 35

reverse/reinforcement stitch button

......................Cover D

safety instructions ............................................... 6, 8, 10

satin stitch

...................................................................115

satin stitching

................................................................98

saving patterns

............................................................123

saving stitch settings

......................................................60

scallop stitching

..........................................................109

screen language

............................................................17

screwdriver

................................................... Cover A, 36

seam ripper

................................................... Cover A, 79

selecting stitching

.........................................................66

settings

..........................................................................14

settings key

.................................................... Cover E, 14

sewing machine help key

............................... Cover E, 13

sewing machine needles

...............................................33

sewing speed

................................................................48

sewing speed controller

................. Cover B, Cover D, 98

shell tuck stitch

...........................................................110

shutter

...........................................................................26

shuttle

.................................................................. 22, 140

shuttle hook

................................................................140

side cutter

..................................................... Cover A, 70

side view

............................................................. Cover C

size

.............................................................................119

sleeves

........................................................................100

smocking

....................................................................109

spool cap

................................................Cover A, 19, 25

spool net

....................................................... Cover A, 31

spool pin

.................................................Cover B, 19, 25

start/stop button

............................................ Cover D, 48

starting to sew

...............................................................48

step pattern

.................................................................121

stitch density

...............................................................120

stitch guide foot

............................................ Cover A, 64

stitch keys

.............................................................Cover E

stitch length

..................................................................56

stitch selection key

................................................Cover E

stitch settings

..............................................................132

stitch width

...................................................................55

controlling

..............................................................98

storing patterns

...........................................................123

straight stitch

...............................................................132

stretch fabrics

......................................................... 63, 90

thick fabrics ..................................................................63

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 151 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

APPENDIX — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —

152

thin fabrics ....................................................................63

thread cutter

..................................................Cover B, 52

thread cutter button

...................................... Cover D, 51

thread guide cover

..................................Cover B, 20, 26

thread guide discs

..........................................Cover C, 27

thread guide for bobbin winding

.......................... Cover B

thread guide plate

..........................................Cover B, 26

thread tension

...............................................................54

thread tension adjusting

................................ 53, 54, 147

thread tension dial

........................................................53

thread that quickly unwinds

..........................................31

trial sewing

...................................................................62

triple stretch stitch

.......................................................100

troubleshooting

...........................................................142

twin needle

.............................................Cover A, 28, 36

upper cover ................................... Cover B, 19, 25, 149

upper thread

.................................................................24

upper thread tension

................................................ 2, 54

upper threading

....................................................... 2, 24

walking foot ............................................Cover A, 40, 96

wide table

................................................................ 1, 42

wing needle

................................................................112

zipper stitching ...................................................... 83, 88

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 152 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

Index 153

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 153 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

English

882-S64

XC5427-051

Printed in Taiwan

F3dash-BrotherE_sgml.book Page 1 Friday, September 5, 2003 5:46 PM

Brother NX-600

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User Manual

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Brother NX-600 Questions and Answers

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