Brother XR7700 owner's manual

brother®

1 KNOWING YOUR SEWING MACHINE 2 SEWING BASICS 3 UTILITY STITCHES 4 APPENDIX

Computerized Sewing Machine Operation Manual

English 885-S33/S34/S36/S37 XC8835-721Ⓢ Printed in China

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 “O” 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 “O” 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. (For Australia and New Zealand only)
17. Young children should be supervised to ensure that they do not play with this machine.
18. If the Light unit is damaged, it must be replaced by authorized dealer.

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS This machine is intended for household use.

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

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

I MPORTANT

If the available socket outlet is not suitable for the plug supplied with this equipment, it should be cut off and an appropriate three-pin plug fitted. With alternative plugs an approved fuse must be fitted in the plug.

NOTE

The plug served from the main lead must be destroyed as a plug with bared flexible cords is hazardous if engaged in a live socket outlet. In the event of replacing the plug fuse, use a fuse approved by ASTA to BS 1362, i.e. carrying the mark, rating as marked on plug. Always replace the fuse cover, never use plugs with the fuse cover omitted.

WARNING

DO NOT CONNECT EITHER WIRE TO THE EARTH TERMINAL WHICH IS MARKED WITH THE LETTER ‘E’, BY THE EARTH SYMBOL OR COLOURED GREEN OR GREEN AND YELLOW.

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

Blue Neutral Brown Live

As the colours of the wiring in the main lead of this appliance may not correspond with the coloured markings identifying the terminals in your plug, proceed as follows.

The wire which is coloured blue must be connected to the terminal which is marked with the letter ‘N’ or coloured black or blue.

The wire which is coloured brown must be connected to the terminal which is marked with the letter ‘L’ or coloured red or brown.

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

The contents of this manual and specifications of this product are subject to change without notice.

FOR USERS IN AC INPUT 220-240V COUNTRIES AND MEXICO

This appliance is not intended for use by persons (including children) with reduced physical, sensory or mental capabilities, or lack of experience and knowledge, unless they have been given supervision or instruction concerning use of the appliance by a person responsible for their safety. Children should be supervised to ensure that they do not play with the appliance.

CONTENTS

• 1. KNOWING YOUR SEWING MACHINE ........ 5

• NAMES OF MACHINE PARTS AND THEIR FUNCTIONS ........ 5

• The main parts ........ 5

• Needle and presser foot section ........ 6

• Operation buttons ........ 6

• Operation panel ........ 7

• Flat bed attachment ........ 7

• ACCESSORIES ........ 8

• Optional accessories ........ 8

• USING YOUR SEWING MACHINE ........ 9

• Power supply precautions ........ 9

• Power supply ........ 9

• Foot controller ........ 10

• Sewing speed controller (for models equipped with the start/stop button) ........ 10

• Changing the needle stop position ........ 10

• THREADING THE MACHINE ........ 11

• Winding the bobbin ........ 11

• Lower threading ........ 14

• Upper threading ........ 16

• Drawing up the lower thread ........ 19

• REPLACING THE NEEDLE ........ 20

• Needle precautions ........ 20

• Needle types and their uses ........ 20

• Checking the needle ........ 21

• Replacing the needle ........ 21

• Sewing with a twin needle ........ 23

• REPLACING THE PRESSER FOOT ........ 24

• Replacing the presser foot ........ 24

• Removing the presser foot holder ........ 25

• 2. SEWING BASICS ........ 26

• SEWING ........ 26

• General sewing procedure ........ 26

• Selecting stitching ........ 27

• Starting to sew ........ 28

• Thread tension ........ 29

• USEFUL SEWING TIPS ........ 30

• Trial sewing ........ 30

• Changing the sewing direction ........ 30

• Sewing curves ........ 30

• Sewing thick fabrics ........ 30

• Sewing thin fabrics ........ 31

• Sewing stretch fabrics ........ 31

• Using a free-arm style ........ 31

3

• 3. UTILITY STITCHES ........ 32

• OVERCASTING STITCHES ........ 32

• BASIC STITCHING ........ 33

• Basic stitching ........ 33

• BLIND HEM STITCHING ........ 34

• BUTTONHOLE SEWING ........ 35

• Button sewing ........ 38

• ZIPPER INSERTION ........ 40

• SEWING STRETCH FABRICS AND ELASTIC TAPE ........ 41

• Stretch stitching ........ 41

• Elastic attaching ........ 41

• APPLIQUÉ, PATCHWORK AND QUILT STITCHING ........ 42

• Appliqués ........ 42

• Patchwork (crazy quilt) stitching ........ 43

• Piecing ........ 43

• Quilting ........ 44

• Free-motion quilting ........ 45

• REINFORCEMENT STITCHING ........ 46

• Triple stretch stitching ........ 46

• Bar tack stitching ........ 46

• DECORATIVE STITCHING ........ 48

• Fagoting ........ 49

• Scallop stitching ........ 49

• Smocking ........ 50

• Shell tuck stitching ........ 50

• Joining ........ 51

• Heirloom stitching ........ 51

• 4. APPENDIX ........ 52

• STITCH SETTINGS ........ 52

• Utility stitches ........ 52

• MAINTENANCE ........ 57

• Cleaning the machine surface ........ 57

• Cleaning the bobbin case ........ 57

• TROUBLESHOOTING ........ 59

• ERROR MESSAGES ........ 62

• Operation beep (for models equipped with the operation beep) ........ 62

• INDEX ........ 63

1 KNOWING YOUR SEWING MACHINE

NAMES OF MACHINE PARTS AND THEIR FUNCTIONS

The main parts

① Bobbin winder (page 11) This winds the thread onto the bobbin for use as the lower thread.

② Spool pin (pages 11 and 16) This holds the spool of thread.

③ Hole for extra spool pin (page 23) This holds a second spool of thread for sewing with two needles.

④ Upper tension-control dial (page 29) This controls the tension of the upper thread.

⑤ Thread guide (pages 11 and 16) This is used when winding the thread onto the bobbin and then threading the machine.

⑥ Thread take-up lever (page 17)

⑦ Thread cutter (page 29) Pass the threads through the thread cutter to cut them.

⑧ Flat bed attachment with accessory compartment (pages 7 and 31)

⑨ Operation buttons (page 6) The operation buttons differ depending on the sewing machine model.

⑩ Operation panel (page 7) This is used to select the stitch and specify the various settings.

⑪ Handwheel Used to manually raise and lower the needle.

⑫ Main power and sewing light switch (page 9) You can turn the main power and sewing light switch on and off.

⑬ Jack/socket connector (page 9) Insert the plug on the power supply cord into the jack/ socket connector.

⑭ Foot controller jack/socket (page 10) Plug in the foot controller plug.

⑮ Feed dog position lever (pages 38 and 45) Use the feed dog position lever to lower the feed dogs.

⑯ Presser foot lever (page 16) Used to raise and lower the presser foot.

⑰ Foot controller (page 10) You can use this to control the sewing speed, and to start and stop sewing.

KNOWING YOUR SEWING MACHINE

Needle and presser foot section

① Buttonhole lever Lower the buttonhole lever when sewing buttonholes and bar tacks.

② Needle threader (for models equipped with the needle threader) (page 17)

③ Presser foot holder The presser foot is installed onto the presser foot holder.

④ Presser foot holder screw Use the presser foot holder screw to hold the presser foot holder in place.

⑤ 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.

⑥ Feed dogs The feed dogs feed the fabric in the sewing direction.

⑦ Quick-set bobbin (for models equipped with the quick-set bobbin) You can start sewing without pulling up the bobbin thread.

⑧ Bobbin cover Open the bobbin cover to set the bobbin.

⑨ Needle plate The needle plate is marked with guides for sewing straight seams.

⑩ Needle bar thread guide Pass the upper thread through the needle bar thread guide.

⑪ Needle clamp screw Use the needle clamp screw to hold the needle in place.

Operation buttons

The operation buttons help you to easily perform various basic sewing machine operations. The operation buttons differ depending on the sewing machine model.

① Presser foot lever Raise and lower the presser foot lever to raise and lower the presser foot.

② Reverse/reinforcement stitch button Press the reverse/reinforcement stitch button to sew reverse stitches. Reverse stitches are sewn by keeping the button pressed down to sew in the opposite direction. For details, refer to "Sewing reinforcement stitches" (page 29).

■ Buttons provided on some models

③ Start/stop button (for models equipped with the 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 28).

④ Needle position button (for models equipped with the needle position button) Press the needle position button to raise or lower the needle. Pressing the button twice sews one stitch.

⑤ Sewing speed controller (for models equipped with the sewing speed controller) Slide the sewing speed controller to adjust the sewing speed.

Operation panel

The operation panel, located on the front of the sewing machine, allows you to select a stitch and specify how the stitch will be sewn.

① LCD (Liquid crystal display) The selected stitch (❶), presser foot that should be used (❷), stitch length in millimeters (❸), and stitch width in millimeters (❹) are displayed.

② Stitch selection keys Press the stitch selection keys, and then select the number for the stitch that you wish to use. For details, refer to “Selecting stitching” (page 27).

③ Stitch length adjustment key Press this key to adjust the stitch length. (Press the “–” side to reduce the stitch length; press the “+” side to increase the stitch length.)

④ Stitch width adjustment key Press this key to adjust the stitch width. (Press the “–” side to reduce the stitch width; press the “+” side to increase the stitch width.)

Flat bed attachment

The accessories are stored in a compartment inside the flat bed attachment.

1 Slide the flat bed attachment to the left to open it.

① Flat bed attachment ② Storage compartment

Note

• Put the accessories in the bag, and then store the bag inside the compartment. If the accessories are not in a bag, they may fall out, and be lost or damaged.

ACCESSORIES

The following accessories are stored in the flat bed attachment. We have designed these accessories to help you be able to carry out most sewing tasks.

Note

(For U.S.A. only)

• Foot controller: Model T
  This foot controller can be used on the following machine models: CS-100, CS-6000, CS-6000i, CS-4000, ES-2400, ES-2000, EX-660, CE-4000, BC-1000, HS-1000, XR-7700, CE-5000PRW, SM-6500PRW, CS-770
• The screw of the presser foot holder is available through your authorized dealer. (Part code: 132730-122)

Optional accessories

USING YOUR SEWING MACHINE

Power supply precautions

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

WARNING

• Use only regular household electricity for the power source. Using other power sources may result in fire, electric shock, or damage to the machine.
• Turn off the main power and remove the plug in the following circumstances:
  • When you are away from the machine
  • After using the machine
  • When the power fails during use
  • When the machine does not operate correctly due to a bad connection or a disconnection
  • During electrical storms

CAUTION

• Do not use extension cords or multi-plug adapters with many other appliances plugged in to them. Fire or electric shock may result.
• Do not touch the plug with wet hands. Electric shock may result.
• When unplugging the machine, always turn off the main power first. Always grasp the plug to remove it from the outlet. Pulling on the cord may damage the cord, or lead to fire or electric shock.
• Do not allow the power cord to be cut, damaged, modified, forcefully bent, pulled, twisted, or bundled. Do not place heavy objects on the cord. Do not subject the cord to heat. These things may damage the cord and cause fire or electric shock. If the cord or plug is damaged, take the machine to your authorized dealer for repairs before continuing use.
• Unplug the power cord if the machine is not to be used for a long period of time. Otherwise a fire may result.

Power supply

1. Insert the plug into a wall outlet.

① Main power switch ② Jack/socket connector

2. Set the main power switch to "I".

The sewing lamp comes on when the machine is turned on.

3. To turn off the machine, set the main power switch to "O".

The sewing lamp goes off when the machine is turned off.

Note

• If a power outage occurs while the sewing machine is being operated, turn off the sewing machine and unplug the power supply cord. When restarting the sewing machine, follow the necessary procedure to correctly operate the machine. (For U.S.A. only)
• This appliance has a polarized plug (one blade wider than the other). To reduce the risk of electric shock, this plug is intended to fit in a polarized outlet only one way. If the plug does not fit fully in the outlet, reverse the plug. If it still does not fit, contact a qualified electrician to install the proper outlet. Do not modify the plug in any way.

KNOWING YOUR SEWING MACHINE

Foot controller

Insert the foot controller plug into its jack/socket on the rear side of the sewing machine.

① Foot controller jack/socket

CAUTION

• When connecting the foot controller, be sure to turn off the sewing machine in order to prevent the machine from accidentally being started.

When you press the foot controller down lightly, the machine will run at a low speed. When you press harder, the machine’s speed will increase. When you take your foot off the foot controller, the machine will stop.

You should make sure that nothing is placed on the foot controller when the machine is not in use.

CAUTION

• Do not allow pieces of cloth and dust to build up on the foot controller. Doing so could cause a fire or an electric shock.

Note

• When the foot controller is plugged in, the start/stop button cannot be used to start or stop sewing (only for models equipped with the start/stop button).

Sewing speed controller (for models equipped with the start/stop button)

1. 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.

① Sewing speed controller

• The speed set using the sewing speed controller is the foot controller’s maximum sewing speed.

Changing the needle stop position

Normally, the sewing machine is set to leave the needle in the fabric when sewing is stopped. Instead, the machine can be set to leave the needle raised when sewing is stopped.

1. Turn off the sewing machine.

2. Hold down the “–” side of + – (stitch selection key) on the left and turn on the sewing machine. After turning on the sewing machine, release the “–” side of + – (stitch selection key).

► The needle stop position changes to the raised position.

Memo

• Perform the same operation to change the needle stop position to the lowered position.

10

THREADING THE MACHINE

Winding the bobbin

This section describes how to wind the thread onto the bobbin. • For details on the fast bobbin winding, see page 13.

① Pre-tension disk ② Bobbin winder shaft ③ Bobbin

CAUTION

• Only use bobbins (part code: SA156, SFB: XA5539-151) that have been designed for this sewing machine. Using other bobbins may cause damage to the machine.
• We designed the bobbin that comes with this machine. If you use bobbins from other models, the machine will not work properly. Only use the bobbin that comes with this machine or bobbins of the same type (part code: SA156, SFB: XA5539-151).

Actual size 11.5 mm (7/16 inch) This model Other models

1 Pull up the spool pin as far as possible, and then put a spool of thread on this pin.

2 Pass the thread around the pre-tension disk.

CAUTION

• If the spool of thread is not in the right place, the thread may tangle on the spool pin.

3 Pass the end of the thread through the hole on the bobbin from the inside of the bobbin.

4 Put the bobbin onto the bobbin winder shaft and slide the bobbin winder shaft to the right. Turn the bobbin clockwise, by hand, until the spring on the shaft slides into the groove of the bobbin.

① Spring on the shaft ② Groove of the bobbin

5 Turn on the sewing machine.

KNOWING YOUR SEWING MACHINE

6 While holding the end of the thread, gently press the foot controller or press (start/stop button) (for models equipped with the start/stop button) to wind the thread around the bobbin a few times. Then stop the machine.

Note

• If the sewing machine is to be operated using the foot controller, connect the foot controller before turning on the machine.
• When the foot controller is plugged in, the start/stop button cannot be used to start or stop sewing (only for models equipped with the start/stop button).

7 Trim the excess thread above the bobbin.

CAUTION

• Make sure you follow the instructions carefully. If you do not cut the thread completely, and the bobbin is wound, when the thread runs low it may tangle around the bobbin and cause the needle to break.

8 Slide the sewing speed controller to the right (to set the speed to fast). (For models equipped with the sewing speed controller.)

① Sewing speed controller

9 Press the foot controller or press (start/stop button) (for models equipped with the start/stop button) to start.

10 When the bobbin seems full and begins spinning slowly, take your foot off the foot controller or press (start/stop button) (for models equipped with the start/stop button).

11 Cut the thread, slide the bobbin winder shaft to the left and remove the bobbin.

12 Slide the sewing speed controller back to its original position (for models equipped with the sewing speed controller).

Memo

• When the sewing machine is started or the handwheel is turned after winding the thread around the bobbin, the machine will make a clicking sound; this is not a malfunction.
• The needle bar does not move when you slide the bobbin winding shaft to the right.

CAUTION

• Not winding the bobbin properly may cause the thread tension to loosen, and may break the needle.

① Wound evenly ② Wound poorly

12

■ For models equipped with the fast bobbin winding system

1 Follow steps ❶ through ❷ of the procedure in “Winding the bobbin” to pass the thread around the pre-tension disk (page 11).

2 Place the bobbin on the bobbin winder shaft so that the spring on the shaft fits into the notch in the bobbin.

① Notch ② Bobbin winder shaft spring

3 Slide the bobbin winder shaft to the right.

4 While holding the thread that wraps around the pre-tension disk with your left hand, use your right hand to wind the free end of the thread clockwise around the bobbin five or six times.

5 Pull the thread to the right and pass it through the slit in the bobbin winder seat.

① Slit in bobbin winder seat (with built-in cutter) ► The thread is cut to a suitable length.

CAUTION

• Be sure to cut the thread as described. If the bobbin is wound without cutting the thread using the cutter built into the slit in the bobbin winder seat, the thread may become tangled in the bobbin or the needle may bend or break when the bobbin thread starts to run out.

6 Slide the sewing speed controller to the right (to set the speed to fast) (for models equipped with the sewing speed controller).

① Sewing speed controller

7 Turn on the sewing machine.

8 Press the foot controller or press ⏻ (start/stop button) (for models equipped with the start/stop button) to start.

Note

• If the sewing machine is to be operated using the foot controller, connect the foot controller before turning on the machine.
• When the foot controller is plugged in, the start/stop button cannot be used to start or stop sewing (only for models equipped with the start/stop button).

9 When the bobbin begins spinning slowly, take your foot off the foot controller or press ⏻ (start/stop button) (for models equipped with the start/stop button).

10 Cut the thread, slide the bobbin winder shaft to the left and remove the bobbin.

11 Slide the sewing speed controller back to its original position (for models equipped with the sewing speed controller).

CAUTION

• Not winding the bobbin properly may cause the thread tension to loosen, and may break the needle.

① Wound evenly ② Wound poorly

13

KNOWING YOUR SEWING MACHINE

Memo

• When the sewing machine is started or the handwheel is turned after winding the thread around the bobbin, the machine will make a clicking sound; this is not a malfunction.
• The needle bar does not move when you slide the bobbin winding shaft to the right.

Lower threading

Install the bobbin wound with thread.

• For more details on quick-set bobbin, see page 15.

! CAUTION

• Winding the bobbin improperly may cause the thread tension to loosen, breaking the needle and resulting in injury.

① Wound evenly ② Wound poorly

• The bobbin was designed specifically for this sewing machine. If bobbins from other models are used, the machine will not operate correctly. Use only the enclosed bobbin or bobbins of the same type (part code: SA156, SFB: XA5539-151).

Actual size

11.5 mm (7/16 inch)

This model Other models

! CAUTION

• Make sure you turn the power off while threading the machine. If you accidentally step on the foot controller and the machine starts to sew, you could be injured.

1 Raise the needle to its highest position by turning the handwheel toward you (counterclockwise) or press ⊕ (needle position button) (for models equipped with the needle position button), and raise the presser foot lever.

2 Slide the button and open the cover.

① Cover Slide button

3 Put the bobbin in so the thread comes out in the direction shown by the arrow.

• Only use bobbins that were designed to be used with this machine.

! CAUTION

• Make sure you set the bobbin so the thread unrolls in the right direction. If the thread unrolls in the wrong direction, it may cause the thread tension to be incorrect or break the needle.

4 Hold the end of the thread, push the bobbin down with your finger, and then pass the thread through the slit, as shown.

• Make sure that the thread is correctly inserted through the tension-adjusting spring of the bobbin case. If it is not inserted, re-insert the thread.

① Tension-adjusting spring

5 Replace the bobbin cover. Put the left tab in place (see arrow ①), and then press lightly on

14

the right side (see arrow ②) until the cover clicks into place.

• Replace the cover so that the end of the thread comes out from the left side of the cover (as shown by the line in the diagram).

■ For models equipped with the quick-set bobbin

1 Raise the needle to its highest position by turning the handwheel toward you (counterclockwise) or press ⊕ (needle position button) (for models equipped with the needle position button), and raise the presser foot lever.

2 Slide the button and open the cover.

① Cover Slide button

3 Put the bobbin in, feed the end of the thread through the slit, and then pull the thread to cut it.

• Only use bobbins that were designed to be used with this machine.

CAUTION

● Make sure you set the bobbin so the thread unrolls in the right direction. If the thread unrolls in the wrong direction, it may cause the thread tension to be incorrect or break the needle.

① Cutter

• Make sure that the thread is correctly inserted through the tension-adjusting spring of the bobbin case. If it is not inserted, re-insert the thread.

① Tension-adjusting spring

Memo

● The order that the bobbin thread should be passed through the bobbin case is indicated by marks around the bobbin case. Be sure to thread the machine as indicated.

4 Replace the bobbin cover. Put the left tab in place (see arrow ①), and then press lightly on the right side (see arrow ②) until the cover clicks into place.

Memo

● You can begin sewing immediately without drawing up the bobbin thread. If you want to draw up the bobbin thread before you start to sew, follow to the procedure in "Drawing up the lower thread" (page 19).

KNOWING YOUR SEWING MACHINE

Upper threading

Set the upper thread and thread the needle. • For details on the needle threader, see page 17.

① Spool pin ② Thread guide ③ Mark on the handwheel

CAUTION

● Make sure you thread the machine properly. Otherwise, the thread could tangle and break the needle.

1 Raise the presser foot using the presser foot lever.

① Presser foot lever

2 Raise the needle by turning the handwheel toward you (counterclockwise) so that the mark on the wheel points up, or press [icon] (needle position button) (for models equipped with the needle position button) once or twice to raise the needle.

or

① Mark Needle position button

• If the needle is not correctly raised, the sewing machine can not be threaded. Be sure to turn the handwheel so that the mark on the wheel points up before threading the sewing machine.

16

3 Pull up the spool pin as far as possible, and then put a spool of thread on this pin.

CAUTION

• If the spool of thread is in the wrong place, or is set incorrectly, the thread may tangle on the spool pin and cause the needle to break.

4 Feed the upper thread as shown in the figure on the previous page.

5 Make sure you guide the thread through the thread take-up lever from right to left.

① Thread take-up lever

6 Put the thread behind the needle bar thread guide above the needle. The thread can easily be passed behind the needle bar thread guide by holding the thread in your left hand, then feeding the thread with your right hand.

① Needle bar thread guide

7 Thread the needle from front to back and pull out about 5 cm (2 inch) of thread.

① 5 cm (2 inch)

Note

• If the thread take-up lever is lowered, the upper thread cannot be wrapped around the thread take-up lever. Make sure you raise the presser foot lever and the thread take-up lever before you feed the upper thread.
• If you incorrectly feed the thread you may cause sewing problems.

Using the needle threader (for models equipped with the needle threader)

CAUTION

• The needle threader can only be used with home sewing machine needles size 75/11-100/16. Check the table on page 20 for the appropriate needle and thread combinations. If you are using transparent nylon monofilament thread, you can only use needles in the range of 90/14-100/16.
• You cannot use the needle threader if you are using decorative threads or special needles, such as the twin needle and wing needle. If you are using those types of threads or needles, thread the eye of the needle by hand. Make sure the main power switch is off when threading the needle by hand.

1 Follow steps ① through ⑥ of the procedure in “Upper threading” to thread the machine to the needle bar thread guide.

2 Lower the presser foot lever.

3 While lowering the needle threader lever, hook the thread onto the guide.

① Needle holder ② Needle threader lever ③ Guide

KNOWING YOUR SEWING MACHINE

4 Fully lower the needle threader lever.

► The end of the needle threader rotates toward you and the hook passes through the eye of the needle.

5 Catch the thread on the hook as shown below.

① Hook Thread

6 While lightly holding the thread, release the needle threader lever. The hook will pull the thread through the needle.

7 Pull out about 5 cm (2 inch) of thread through the needle toward the back of the sewing machine.

① 5 cm (2 inch)

Note

• If you incorrectly feed the thread you may cause sewing problems.

18

Drawing up the lower thread

1 Lightly hold the end of the upper thread.

① Upper thread

2 While holding the end of the upper thread, raise the needle either by turning the handwheel toward you (counterclockwise) so that the mark on the wheel points up or by pressing [icon] (needle position button) (for models equipped with the needle position button) once or twice.

or

① Mark Needle position button

3 Pull on the upper thread to draw up the lower thread.

① Upper thread ② Lower thread

4 Pull out about 10 cm (4 inch) of both threads and pull them toward the back of the machine under the presser foot.

① Upper thread ② Lower thread

■ For models equipped with the quick-set bobbin

You can begin sewing immediately without drawing up the bobbin thread. When sewing gathers or darts, you can draw up the lower thread by hand so that some thread will be left over. Before you draw up the lower thread, put the bobbin back in.

1 Pass the thread along the slit in the direction of the arrow, and leave it there without cutting it.

• The bobbin cover should still be removed.

2 Draw up the lower thread as described in steps ❶ to .

3 Replace the bobbin cover.

KNOWING YOUR SEWING MACHINE

REPLACING THE NEEDLE

This section provides information on sewing machine needles.

Needle precautions

Be sure to observe the following precautions concerning the handling of the needle. Failure to observe these precautions is extremely dangerous. Be sure to read and carefully follow the instructions below.

CAUTION

• Only use home sewing machine needles. Use of any other needle may bend the needle or damage the machine.
• Never use bent needles. Bent needles can easily break, possibly resulting in injury.

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.

\begin{tabular}{|l|l|l|c|l|} \hline \multicolumn{2}{|c|}{\textbf{Fabric Type/Application}} & \multicolumn{2}{|c|}{\textbf{Thread}} & \textbf{Size of Needle} \ \cline{3-4} \multicolumn{2}{|c|}{} & \textbf{Type} & \textbf{Size} & \ \hline \multirow{3}{}{Medium weight fabrics} & Broadcloth & Cotton thread & 60–80 & \multirow{3}{}{75/11–90/14} \ \cline{2-4} & Taffeta & Synthetic thread & & \ \cline{2-4} & Flannel, Gabardine & Silk thread & 50–80 & \ \hline \multirow{3}{}{Thin fabrics} & Lawn & Cotton thread & 60–80 & \multirow{3}{}{65/9–75/11} \ \cline{2-4} & Georgette & Synthetic thread & & \ \cline{2-4} & Challis, Satin & Silk thread & 50–80 & \ \hline \multirow{3}{}{Thick fabrics} & Denim & Cotton thread & 30–50 & \multirow{3}{}{90/14–100/16} \ \cline{2-4} & Corduroy & Synthetic thread & 50 & \ \cline{2-4} & Tweed & Silk thread & & \ \hline \multirow{2}{}{Stretch fabrics} & Jersey & Thread for knits & 50–60 & Ball point needle (golden colored) 75/11–90/14 \ \cline{2-4} & Tricot & & & \ \hline \multicolumn{2}{|c|}{\multirow{3}{}{Easily frayed fabrics}} & Cotton thread & 50–80 & \multirow{3}{}{65/9–90/14} \ \cline{3-4} \multicolumn{2}{|c|}{} & Synthetic thread & & \ \cline{3-4} \multicolumn{2}{|c|}{} & Silk thread & & \ \hline \multicolumn{2}{|c|}{\multirow{2}{}{For top-stitching}} & Synthetic thread & 30 & \multirow{2}{*}{90/14–100/16} \ \cline{3-4} \multicolumn{2}{|c|}{} & Silk thread & & \ \hline \end{tabular}

Memo

• The smaller the thread number, the thicker the thread; and the larger the needle number, the thicker the needle.
• Use the ball point needle when sewing on stretch fabrics or fabrics where skipped stitches easily occur.
• Use a 90/14 to 100/16 needle with transparent nylon threads, regardless of the fabric being sewn.

CAUTION

• The appropriate fabric, thread and needle combinations are shown in the table on the previous page. If the combination of the fabric, thread and needle is not correct, particularly when sewing thick fabrics (such as denim) with thin needles (such as 65/9 to 75/11), the needle may bend or break. In addition, the stitching may be uneven or puckered or there may be skipped stitches.

Checking the needle

Sewing with a bent needle is extremely dangerous since the needle may break while the machine is being operated. Before using the needle, place the flat side of the needle on a flat surface and check that the distance between the needle and the flat surface is even.

① Flat side ② Needle type marking

■ Correct needle

① Flat surface

■ Incorrect needle If the distance between the needle and the flat surface is not even, the needle is bent. Do not use a bent needle.

① 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".

1. Raise the needle by turning the handwheel toward you (counterclockwise) so that the mark on the wheel points up. (With models equipped with [icon] (needle position button), raise the needle by pressing [icon] once or twice.)

① Mark Needle position button

2. Turn off the sewing machine.

CAUTION

• Before replacing the needle, be sure to turn off the sewing machine, otherwise injuries may occur if the foot controller or the start/stop button is accidentally pressed and the machine starts sewing.

3. Lower the presser foot lever.

① Presser foot lever

21

KNOWING YOUR SEWING MACHINE

4 Hold the needle with your left hand, and then use a screwdriver to turn the needle clamp screw counterclockwise to remove the needle.

Note

• The needle can be removed by simply loosening the needle clamp screw about one turn. (If the needle clamp screw is loosened too much, the needle clamp (which holds the needle) may fall off. Therefore, do not loosen the needle clamp screw too much.)

① Screwdriver ② Needle clamp screw

• Do not apply strong force when loosening or tightening the needle clamp screw, otherwise certain parts of the sewing machine may be damaged.

5 With the flat side of the needle toward the rear of the machine, insert the needle until it touches the needle stopper.

① Needle stopper

6 While holding the needle with your left hand, use the screwdriver to tighten the needle clamp screw by turning it clockwise.

Install the twin needle in the same way.

CAUTION

• Be sure to insert the needle until it touches the needle stopper and securely tighten the needle clamp screw with the screwdriver, otherwise the needle may break or damage may result.

■ Installing the needle clamp If the needle clamp is removed, follow the procedure below to attach it to the needle bar.

1 As seen from the front of the machine, slide the needle clamp onto the needle bar so that the needle clamp screw is on the right side and the needle bar thread guide is at the bottom.

① Needle clamp screw ② Needle bar thread guide ③ Needle bar

2 Align the bottom edge of the needle holder with the end of the needle bar, and then tighten the needle clamp screw.

① Needle bar ② Needle holder ③ Needle clamp screw ④ Align

22

Sewing with a twin needle

We have designed your machine so you can sew with this needle and two top threads. You can use the same color or two different colors of thread for making decorative stitches. For details on the stitches that can be sewn with the twin needle, refer to “Stitch settings” (page 52).

CAUTION

• Use only twin needles that have been made for this machine (part code: 131096-121). Other needles could break, and damage the machine.
• Do not sew with bent needles. The needle could break and injure you.
• You can not use the needle threader to thread the twin needle. Instead, thread the twin needle by hand, from front to back. Using the needle threader may damage the machine.
• When using the twin needle, be sure to select an appropriate stitch, otherwise the needle may break or the machine may be damaged.
• Select a stitch width of 5.0 mm (3/16 inch) or less, otherwise the needle may break or the machine may be damaged.
• After adjusting the stitch width, slowly turn the handwheel toward you (counterclockwise) and check that the needle does not touch the presser foot. If the needle hits the presser foot, the needle may bend or break.
• When using the twin needle, be sure to attach zigzag foot "J", otherwise the needle may break or the machine may be damaged.
• When changing the sewing direction, be sure to raise the needle before turning the fabric. If the fabric is turned while the needle is lowered, the needle may bend or break.

Twin needle threading

1 Attach the twin needle. Attach the twin needle in the same way as a single needle (page 21).

2 Attach the extra spool pin. Put the extra spool pin in the hole on the top of the machine. Put the second spool of thread onto the extra spool pin.

① First spool ② Second spool

3 Use the thread from the first spool to thread the machine to the needle bar thread guide. The path for threading the machine to the needle bar thread guide is the same as for normally threading the machine (for a single needle). See page 17 for more details.

4 Thread the left needle from front to back.

5 Use the thread from the second spool to thread the machine to the thread take-up lever. The path for threading the machine to the thread take-up lever is the same as for normally threading the machine (for a single needle). See page 17 for more details.

6 Thread the right needle from front to back. Do not pass the thread behind the needle bar thread guide.

① Left needle thread passes through the needle bar thread guide. ② Right needle thread passes in front of the needle bar thread guide. ③ Needle bar thread guide

Note

Models equipped with a needle threader

• You cannot use the needle threader to thread the twin needle. Instead, thread the twin needle by hand, from front to back. Using the needle threader may damage the machine.

CAUTION

• When using the twin needle, be sure to attach zigzag foot "J", otherwise the needle may break or the machine may be damaged.

23

KNOWING YOUR SEWING MACHINE

REPLACING THE PRESSER FOOT

CAUTION

• Always turn off the power before you change the presser foot. If you leave the power on and step on the controller, the machine will start and you may be injured.
• Always use the correct presser foot for the stitch pattern you have chosen. If you use the wrong presser foot, the needle may strike the presser foot and bend or break, and may cause injury.
• Only use presser feet that have been designed to be used with this machine. Using other any presser feet may cause an accident or injury.

Replacing the presser foot

Replace the presser foot as described below.

1 Raise the needle by turning the handwheel toward you (counterclockwise) so that the mark on the wheel points up. (With models equipped with [icon] (needle position button), raise the needle by pressing [icon] once or twice.)

① Mark or ② Needle position button

2 If the sewing machine has been turned on, turn it off.

CAUTION

• Before replacing the presser foot, be sure to turn off the sewing machine, otherwise injuries may occur if the foot controller or the start/stop button is accidentally pressed and the machine starts sewing.

3 Raise the presser foot lever.

① Presser foot lever

4 Press the black button at the back of the presser foot holder to release the presser foot.

① Black button ② Presser foot holder

5 Place a different presser foot below the holder so that the presser foot pin is aligned with the shank in the holder. Position the presser foot so the letter indicating the presser foot type (J, A, etc.) is positioned to be read.

① Presser foot holder ② Shank ③ Pin

Note

• The presser foot to be used with each stitch appears in the LCD. To select a stitch, refer to "Selecting stitching" (page 27).

24

6 Slowly lower the presser foot lever so that the presser foot pin snaps into the shank in the presser foot holder.

① Presser foot lever ► The presser foot is attached.

7 Raise the presser foot lever to check that the presser foot is securely attached.

Removing the presser foot holder

Remove the presser foot holder when cleaning the sewing machine or when installing a presser foot that does not use the presser foot holder, such as the quilting foot. Use the screwdriver to remove the presser foot holder.

■ Removing the presser foot holder

1 Remove the presser foot.

• For details, refer to “Replacing the presser foot” (page 24).

2 Use the screwdriver to loosen the presser foot holder screw.

① Screwdriver ② Presser foot holder ③ Presser foot holder screw

■ Attaching the presser foot holder

1 Align the presser foot holder with the lower-left side of the presser bar.

① Presser foot holder ② Presser bar

2 Hold the presser foot holder in place with your right hand, and then tighten the screw using the screwdriver in your left hand.

① Screwdriver ② Presser foot holder ③ Presser foot holder screw

Note

• If the presser foot holder is not correctly installed, the thread tension will be incorrect.