Brother NV1200 Operation Manual

Brother NV1200 is a computerized sewing and embroidery machine that offers a wide range of features for both beginners and experienced sewers. With its user-friendly interface, large color touchscreen, and built-in tutorials, the NV1200 makes it easy to get started with sewing and embroidery. The machine also comes with a variety of built-in stitches, including utility stitches, decorative stitches, and embroidery designs, so you can create a variety of projects.

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CPS5XV[Y

GETTING READY

SEWING BASICS

UTILITY STITCHES

EMBROIDERY

APPENDIX

Computerized Sewing and Embroidery Machine

Operation Manual

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Federal Communications Commission (FCC)

Declaration of Conformity (For USA Only)

Responsible Party: Brother International Corporation

100 Somerset Corporate Boulevard

Bridgewater, NJ 08807-0911 USA

TEL : (908) 704-1700 declares that the product

Product Name:

Model Number:

Brother Sewing Machine

NV1200

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:

• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.

• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.

• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.

• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

• The included interface cable should be used in order to ensure compliance with the limits for a

Class B digital device.

• Changes or modifications not expressly approved by Brother Industries, Ltd. could void the user's authority to operate the equipment.

Important Safety Instructions

Please read these safety instructions before attempting to use the machine.

This machine is intended for household use.

DANGER

- To reduce the risk of electric shock:

Always unplug the machine from the electrical outlet immediately after using, when cleaning, when making any user servicing adjustments mentioned in this manual, or if you are leaving the machine unattended.

WARNING

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

Always unplug the machine from the electrical outlet when removing covers, lubricating, or when making any adjustments mentioned in the instruction manual:

• To unplug the machine, switch the machine to the symbol “O” position to turn it off, then grasp the plug and pull it out of the electrical outlet. Do not pull on the cord.

• Plug the machine directly into the electrical outlet. Do not use an extension cord.

• Always unplug your machine if the power is cut.

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 water is spilled on the unit. Return the machine to the nearest authorized dealer or service center for examination, repair, electrical or mechanical adjustment.

While the machine is stored or in use if you notice anything unusual, such as an odor, heat, discoloration or deformation, stop using the machine and immediately unplug the power cord.

Always keep your work area clear:

• Never operate the machine with any air openings blocked. Keep ventilation openings of the sewing machine and foot control free from the build up of lint, dust, and loose cloth.

• Do not store objects on the foot controller.

• Do not use extension cords. Plug the machine directly into the electrical outlet.

• Never drop or insert any object into any opening.

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

• Do not use the machine near a heat source, such as a stove or iron; otherwise, the machine, power cord or garment being sewn may ignite, resulting in fire or an electric shock.

Special care is required when sewing:

• Always pay close attention to the needle. Do not use bent or damaged needles.

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

• Switch the sewing machine to the symbol “O” position to turn it off when making any adjustments in the needle area.

• Do not use a damaged or incorrect needle plate, as it could cause the needle to break.

• Do not push or pull the fabric when sewing, and follow careful instruction when freehand stitching so that you do not deflect the needle and cause it to break.

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This machine is not a toy:

• Your close attention is necessary when the machine is used by or near children.

• Do not use outdoors.

For a longer service life:

• When storing this machine, avoid direct sunlight and high humidity locations. Do not use or store the machine near a space heater, iron, halogen lamp, or other hot objects.

• Use only neutral soaps or detergents to clean the case. Benzene, thinner, and scouring powders can damage the case and machine, and should never be used.

• Always consult the operation manual when replacing or installing any assemblies, the presser feet, needle, or other parts to assure correct installation.

For repair or adjustment:

• If the Light unit (light-emitting diode) is damaged, it must be replaced by authorized dealer.

• In the event a malfunction occurs or adjustment is required, first follow the troubleshooting table in the back of the operation manual to inspect and adjust the machine yourself. If the problem persists, please consult your local authorized Brother dealer.

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

Use accessories recommended by the manufacturer as contained in this manual.

Use only the interface cable (USB cable) included with this machine.

Save these instructions.

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

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

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

IMPORTANT

• In the event of replacing the plug fuse, use a fuse approved by ASTA to BS 1362, i.e. carrying the

mark, rating as marked on plug.

• Always replace the fuse cover. Never use plugs with the fuse cover omitted.

• If the available electrical outlet is not suitable for the plug supplied with this equipment, you should contact your authorized dealer to obtain the correct lead.

FOR USERS IN AUSTRALIA AND NEW ZEALAND

This sewing machine is not intended to be used by young children, and assistance may be required if used by a person with a disability.

Important Safety Instructions .............................................................................................. 1

Introduction ........................................................................................................................ 7

Sewing Machine Features ....................................................................................................7

Accessories.......................................................................................................................... 8

Included accessories ......................................................................................................................................... 8

Optional accessories ....................................................................................................................................... 10

Names of Machine Parts and Their Functions ...................................................................11

Front view....................................................................................................................................................... 11

Needle and presser foot section ...................................................................................................................... 12

Right-side/rear view ........................................................................................................................................ 12

Operation buttons ........................................................................................................................................... 13

Operation panel.............................................................................................................................................. 14

GETTING READY 15

Turning the Machine On/Off.............................................................................................16

Power supply precautions ............................................................................................................................... 16

Turning on the machine .................................................................................................................................. 17

Turning off the machine .................................................................................................................................. 17

LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) Operation............................................................................18

Viewing the LCD............................................................................................................................................. 18

Changing the machine settings........................................................................................................................ 19

Checking machine operating procedures ........................................................................................................ 21

Winding/Installing the Bobbin...........................................................................................23

Bobbin precautions ......................................................................................................................................... 23

Winding the bobbin ........................................................................................................................................ 23

Installing the bobbin ....................................................................................................................................... 27

Upper Threading ...............................................................................................................29

About the spool of thread................................................................................................................................ 29

Threading the upper thread ............................................................................................................................. 30

Threading the needle ...................................................................................................................................... 32

Threading the needle manually (without using the needle threader) ................................................................ 33

Using the twin needle ..................................................................................................................................... 34

Pulling up the bobbin thread........................................................................................................................... 37

Replacing the Needle ........................................................................................................38

Needle precautions ......................................................................................................................................... 38

Needle types and their uses............................................................................................................................. 39

Checking the needle ....................................................................................................................................... 40

Replacing the needle....................................................................................................................................... 40

Replacing the Presser Foot ................................................................................................42

Presser foot precautions .................................................................................................................................. 42

Replacing the presser foot ............................................................................................................................... 42

Removing and attaching the presser foot holder .............................................................................................. 44

Sewing Cylindrical Pieces..................................................................................................45

Free-arm sewing.............................................................................................................................................. 45

SEWING BASICS 47

Sewing...............................................................................................................................48

General sewing procedure .............................................................................................................................. 48

Selecting stitching ........................................................................................................................................... 49

Positioning the fabric ...................................................................................................................................... 50

Starting to sew................................................................................................................................................. 51

Securing the stitching ...................................................................................................................................... 53

Cutting the thread ........................................................................................................................................... 54

Setting the Stitch ...............................................................................................................56

Adjusting the stitch width................................................................................................................................ 56

Adjusting the stitch length ............................................................................................................................... 57

Adjusting the thread tension............................................................................................................................ 57

Useful Functions................................................................................................................59

Automatically sewing reverse/reinforcement stitches ....................................................................................... 59

Automatically cutting the thread ..................................................................................................................... 60

Mirroring stitches ............................................................................................................................................ 61

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

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

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

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

Adjusting the presser foot pressure .................................................................................................................. 62

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

Sewing thin fabrics.......................................................................................................................................... 64

Sewing stretch fabrics...................................................................................................................................... 64

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

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

Hands-free raising and lowering of the presser foot ......................................................................................... 65

UTILITY STITCHES 67

Stitch Setting Chart ...........................................................................................................68

Utility stitches ................................................................................................................................................. 68

Other stitches.................................................................................................................................................. 72

Selecting Stitching .............................................................................................................75

Stitch types...................................................................................................................................................... 75

Selecting stitching ........................................................................................................................................... 75

Saving stitch settings ....................................................................................................................................... 77

Overcasting Stitches..........................................................................................................79

Sewing overcasting stitches using overcasting foot “G” ................................................................................... 79

Sewing overcasting stitches using zigzag foot “J”............................................................................................. 80

Sewing overcasting stitches using the optional side cutter ............................................................................... 81

Basic Stitching ...................................................................................................................83

Basting ............................................................................................................................................................ 83

Basic stitching ................................................................................................................................................. 83

Blind Hem Stitching ..........................................................................................................85

Buttonhole Stitching/Button Sewing..................................................................................87

Buttonhole sewing .......................................................................................................................................... 88

Button sewing ................................................................................................................................................. 92

Zipper Insertion.................................................................................................................94

Inserting a centered zipper .............................................................................................................................. 94

Inserting a side zipper ..................................................................................................................................... 96

Zipper/piping Insertion .....................................................................................................99

Inserting a centered zipper .............................................................................................................................. 99

Inserting a piping .......................................................................................................................................... 100

Sewing Stretch Fabrics and Elastic Tape ..........................................................................101

Stretch stitching............................................................................................................................................. 101

Elastic attaching ............................................................................................................................................ 101

Appliqué, Patchwork and Quilt Stitching ........................................................................103

Appliqué stitching ......................................................................................................................................... 104

Patchwork (crazy quilt) stitching ................................................................................................................... 105

Piecing .......................................................................................................................................................... 105

Quilting ........................................................................................................................................................ 107

Free-motion quilting...................................................................................................................................... 108

Satin stitching using the sewing speed controller ........................................................................................... 109

Reinforcement Stitching ..................................................................................................111

Triple stretch stitching ................................................................................................................................... 111

Bar tack stitching........................................................................................................................................... 111

Darning......................................................................................................................................................... 113

Eyelet Stitching................................................................................................................115

Horizontal Stitching ........................................................................................................116

Decorative Stitching........................................................................................................118

Fagoting ........................................................................................................................................................ 119

Scallop stitching ............................................................................................................................................ 120

Smocking ...................................................................................................................................................... 120

Shell tuck stitching ........................................................................................................................................ 121

Joining .......................................................................................................................................................... 122

Heirloom stitching ........................................................................................................................................ 123

Sewing the Various Built-in Decorative Patterns .............................................................126

Sewing beautiful patterns .............................................................................................................................. 126

Sewing patterns............................................................................................................................................. 126

Changing the pattern size.............................................................................................................................. 127

Changing the stitch density ........................................................................................................................... 127

Changing the length for satin stitches ............................................................................................................ 128

Shifting patterns ............................................................................................................................................ 129

Combining patterns....................................................................................................................................... 130

Saving patterns.............................................................................................................................................. 133

Realigning the pattern ................................................................................................................................... 134

Designing a Pattern (My Custom Stitch)..........................................................................137

Drawing a sketch of the pattern..................................................................................................................... 137

Entering the pattern data ............................................................................................................................... 138

Examples of designs ...................................................................................................................................... 140

EMBROIDERY 141

Embroidering Neatly .......................................................................................................142

What to prepare ............................................................................................................................................ 142

Embroidery step by step ................................................................................................................................ 144

Attaching the Embroidery Foot........................................................................................145

Attaching the embroidery foot....................................................................................................................... 145

Removing the embroidery foot ...................................................................................................................... 147

Attaching the Embroidery Unit........................................................................................148

Embroidery unit precautions ......................................................................................................................... 148

Attaching the embroidery unit....................................................................................................................... 148

Removing the embroidery unit ...................................................................................................................... 150

Preparing the Fabric ........................................................................................................151

Attaching an optional stabilizer material to the fabric.................................................................................... 151

Setting the fabric in the embroidery frame ..................................................................................................... 152

Attaching the Embroidery Frame.....................................................................................155

Attaching the embroidery frame .................................................................................................................... 155

Removing the embroidery frame ................................................................................................................... 156

Selecting Embroidery Patterns.........................................................................................157

Copyright information .................................................................................................................................. 157

Embroidery pattern types............................................................................................................................... 157

LCD (liquid crystal display) operation ........................................................................................................... 158

Selecting characters ...................................................................................................................................... 160

Selecting an embroidery pattern.................................................................................................................... 161

Selecting a frame pattern ............................................................................................................................... 162

Using an embroidery card (sold separately)................................................................................................... 163

Embroidering...................................................................................................................164

Sewing attractive finishes .............................................................................................................................. 164

Embroidering a pattern.................................................................................................................................. 165

Appliquéing ................................................................................................................................................. 167

Editing Patterns ...............................................................................................................169

Adjusting the layout ...................................................................................................................................... 169

Adjusting the thread tension.......................................................................................................................... 171

Resewing ...................................................................................................................................................... 172

Thread runs out partway through a design..................................................................................................... 172

Stopping while embroidering ........................................................................................................................ 173

Using the Memory Function ............................................................................................175

Embroidery data precautions......................................................................................................................... 175

Saving patterns.............................................................................................................................................. 176

Retrieving embroidery patterns from the computer ........................................................................................ 177

APPENDIX 179

Care and Maintenance ....................................................................................................180

Cleaning the machine surface ....................................................................................................................... 180

Cleaning the race .......................................................................................................................................... 180

Troubleshooting ..............................................................................................................182

Error messages .............................................................................................................................................. 187

Adjusting the LCD......................................................................................................................................... 190

Operation beep............................................................................................................................................. 190

Canceling the operation beep ....................................................................................................................... 191

Upgrading Your Machine’s Software ...............................................................................192

Index ................................................................................................................................193

Introduction

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

“Important Safety Instructions” (page 1), 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

5 a Simple bobbin-winding

The bobbin can quickly and easily be wound with thread (page 23). b Built-in stitches

You can select from the built-in stitches available, including utility stitches and decorative stitches (page 68). c Quick-set bobbin

You can start sewing without pulling up the bobbin thread (page 27). d Automatic thread cutting

The thread can be cut automatically after sewing (page 60). e Embroidery

You can embroider built-in embroidery patterns, characters, framed decorations, and designs from optional embroidery cards (page 141). f 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 65).

Introduction / Sewing Machine Features 7

Accessories

Included accessories

After opening the box, check that the following accessories are included. If any item is missing or damaged, contact your dealer.

Note

(For U.S.A. only) z Foot controller: Model T

This foot controller can be used on this machine model NV1200.

z The screw for the presser foot holder is available through your authorized dealer.

(Part code: XA4813-051) z The organized accessory tray is available through your authorized dealer.

(Part code: XC4489-051)

10.

19.

11.

20.

12.

21.

13.

14.* 15.

16.

17.

18.

22.

23.

24.

25.

26.

30.

27.

32.

33.

28.

29.

34.

35.

36.

37.

39.

*75/11 2 needles

90/14 2 needles

90/14 2 needles: Ball point needle

(gold colored)

31.

38.

No.

Part Name

1 Buttonhole foot “A”

2 Overcasting foot “G”

3 Monogramming foot “N”

4 Zipper foot “I”

5 Zigzag foot “J” (on machine)

6 Blind stitch foot “R”

7 Button fitting foot “M”

Stitch guide foot “P”

Adjustable zipper/piping foot

10 Non stick foot

11 Open toe foot

12 Seam ripper

13 Bobbin (4)

14 Needle set

15 Twin needle

16 Cleaning brush

17 Eyelet punch

18 Screwdriver (large)

19 Screwdriver (small)

20 Spool cap (large)

21 Spool cap (medium) (2)

22 Spool cap (small)

Part Code

U.S.A. / Canada Others

XC2691-053

XC3098-051

X53840-351

X59370-051

No.

Part Name

23 Extra spool pin

24 Spool net

25 Foot controller

XC3021-051

X56409-051

26 Operation manual

27 Quick reference guide

130489-001 28 Embroidery foot “Q”

SA160

F035N:

XC1969-002 29

Embroidery set (large)

H 18 cm × W 13 cm

(H 7 inches × W 5 inches)

SA161

SA114

F036N:

XC1970-002

F007N:

XC1949-002

Embroidery set (extra large

(multi-position))

H 30 cm

× W 13 cm

(H 12 inches

× W 5 inches)

SA147

F027N:

X54243-051 (white)

SA156

SFB:

XA5539-151

X58358-051

X59296-151

X59476-051

135793-001

XC8349-051

X55468-051

130012-054

X55260-153

130013-154

33 Knee lifter

34 USB cable

35 Grid sheet set

36 Scissors

37 Hard case

38 Accessory bag

39 Disc-shaped screwdriver

Part Code

U.S.A. / Canada Others

XC4654-051

XA5523-050

XD0501-021(EU area)

XC8816-021(other areas)

XE0535-001

XD1237-021

XD0474-051

SA444/EF84

EF84:

XD0600-002

SA445/EF85

SA-EBT

EF85:

XD0601-002

X81164-001

EBT-CEN

XC8167-251

XA6941-052

XD0745-051

SA527

GS4:

XC4549-050

XC1807-121

XC9701-052

XC4487-051

XC1074-051

Accessories 9

Optional accessories

The following are available as optional accessories.

10.

No.

Part Name

Embroidery bobbin thread (white)

Embroidery bobbin thread (black)

2 Embroidery card

Embroidery set (small)

H 2 cm

× W 6 cm

(H 1 inch

× W 2-1/2 inches)

Embroidery set (medium)

H 10 cm × W 10 cm

(H 4 inches × W 4 inches)

SA-EBT

Part Code

U.S.A. / Canada Others

EBT-CEN

X81164-001

SAEBT999

EBT-CEBN

XC5520-001

SA442/

EF82

SA443/

EF83

EF82:

XD0598-002

EF83:

XD0599-002

Water solude stabilizer

Stubilizer material for embroidery

Wide table

Walking foot

Quilting foot

1/4 inch quilting foot

10 Side cutter “S”

11 Quilting guide

SA520

SA519

SA551

SA140

SA129

SA125

SA177

SA132

SA185

BM4:

X81267-101

BM3:

X81175-101

WT5:

XC9567-152

F033N:

XC2214-002

F005N:

XC1948-002

F001N:

XC1944-052

F054:

XC3879-002

F016N:

XC2215-002

F057:

XC7416-252

11.

12.

Memo z To obtain optional accessories or parts, contact your sales representative or the nearest authorized service center.

z All specifications are correct at the time of printing. The part codes are subject to change without notice.

z Visit your nearest authorized retailer for a complete listing of optional accessories available for your machine.

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

Pass the thread under the thread guide plate.

b Thread guide cover

Pass the thread behind the thread guide cover when threading the upper thread.

c Spool pin

Place a spool of thread on the spool pin.

d Bobbin winding thread guide and pretension disk

Pass the thread under this thread guide and around the pretension disk when winding the bobbin thread.

e Top cover

Open the top 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

From the operation panel, stitch settings can be viewed and edited, and operations for using the machine can be displayed (page 14). h Knee lifter mounting slot

Insert the knee lifter into the knee lifter mounting slot.

i Embroidery unit connector slot

Plug in the connector for the embroidery unit. j Presser foot lever

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

k Operation buttons and sewing speed controller

Use these buttons and the slide to operate the sewing machine (page 13).

l Flat bed attachment

Insert the accessories tray into the accessory compartment of the flat bed attachment. Remove the flat bed attachment when sewing cylindrical pieces such as sleeve cuffs. m Thread cutter

Pass the threads through the thread cutter to cut them.

n Needle threader lever

Use the needle threader lever to thread the needle.

o Thread take-up lever check window

Look through the window to check the position of the take-up lever.

Names of Machine Parts and Their Functions 11

Needle and presser foot section Right-side/rear view

a Buttonhole lever

The buttonhole lever is used with the one-step buttonhole foot to create buttonholes.

b Thread guide disk

Pass the thread through the thread guide disk when using the needle threader to thread the needle.

c Needle bar thread guide

Pass the upper thread through the needle bar thread guide.

d Needle plate

The needle plate is marked with guides to help sew straight seams.

e Needle plate cover

Remove the needle plate cover to clean the bobbin case and race.

f Bobbin cover

Open the bobbin cover to set the bobbin.

g Feed dogs

The feed dogs feed the fabric in the sewing direction.

h Presser foot

The presser foot applies pressure consistently on the fabric as sewing takes place. Attach the appropriate presser foot for the selected stitch.

i Presser foot holder

The presser foot is attached onto the presser foot holder.

a Handle

Carry the sewing machine by its handle when transporting the machine.

b Handwheel

Turn the handwheel toward you to raise and lower the needle. The handwheel should be turned towards you

(counterclockwise).

c Embroidery card slot

Insert the embroidery card.

d USB port connector

Plug the USB cable into the USB port connector.

e Air vent

The air vent allows the air surrounding the motor to circulate. Do not cover the air vent while the sewing machine is being used.

f Main power switch

Use the main power switch to turn the sewing machine

ON and OFF.

g Foot controller jack

Insert the plug on the end of the foot controller cable into the foot controller jack.

h Power supply jack

Insert the plug on the power cord into the power supply jack.

i Feed dog position switch

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

j Presser foot pressure dial

Use the presser foot pressure dial to adjust the amount of pressure that the presser foot applies.

k Presser foot lever

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

Memo z Refer to pages 11 through 14 while you are learning to use your machine.

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 pressed. When sewing is stopped, the needle is lowered in the fabric. For details, refer to “Starting to sew” (page 51).

The button changes color according to the machine’s operation mode.

Green: The machine is ready to sew or is sewing.

The machine can not sew.

Red:

Orange: The machine is winding the bobbin thread, or the bobbin winder shaft is moved to the right side.

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 53).

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 sewing is stopped to cut both the upper and the bobbin threads. For details, refer to “Cutting the thread” (page 54).

e Sewing speed controller

Slide the sewing speed controller to adjust the sewing speed.

CAUTION

● Do not press (“Thread Cutter” button) after the threads have already been cut, otherwise the needle may break, the threads may become tangled or damage to the machine may occur.

Note z Do not press (“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 “Using the thread cutter”

(page 55).

Names of Machine Parts and Their Functions 13

Operation panel

The front operation panel has an LCD (liquid crystal display) and operation keys.

a c b f d e i a LCD (liquid crystal display) (touch panel)

Selected pattern settings and messages are displayed.

Touch the keys displayed on the LCD to perform operations.

For details, refer to “LCD (Liquid Crystal Display)

Operation” (page 18).

g b Back key

Press to return to the previous screen. c Previous page key

Displays the previous screen when there are items that are not displayed on the LCD.

d Next page key

Displays the next screen when there are items that are not displayed on the LCD.

e Memory key

Press to enter character embroidery, combined stitch patterns, My Custom Stitch patterns, etc into the sewing machine memory.

h f Utility stitch key

Press this key to select a utility stitch or decorative stitch or to design a stitch pattern using the My Custom Stitch function.

g Embroidery key

Press this key to sew embroidery.

h Settings key

Press to set the needle stop position, the buzzer sound, and more.

i Sewing machine help key

Press to get help on using the sewing machine.

Displays simple explanations of setting upper thread / bobbin winding / setting bobbin thread / needle replacement / embroidery unit attachment / embroidery frame attachment / embroidery foot attachment / presser foot replacement.

1 GETTING READY

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

Turning the Machine On/Off ..................................................................................16

Power supply precautions ..................................................................................16

Turning on the machine .....................................................................................17

Turning off the machine .....................................................................................17

LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) Operation..................................................................18

Viewing the LCD ................................................................................................18

Changing the machine settings...........................................................................19

Checking machine operating procedures ...........................................................21

Winding/Installing the Bobbin.................................................................................23

Bobbin precautions ............................................................................................23

Winding the bobbin ...........................................................................................23

Installing the bobbin ..........................................................................................27

Upper Threading .....................................................................................................29

About the spool of thread ..................................................................................29

Threading the upper thread................................................................................30

Threading the needle..........................................................................................32

Threading the needle manually (without using the needle threader)..................33

Using the twin needle ........................................................................................34

Pulling up the bobbin thread..............................................................................37

Replacing the Needle ..............................................................................................38

Needle precautions ............................................................................................38

Needle types and their uses................................................................................39

Checking the needle...........................................................................................40

Replacing the needle ..........................................................................................40

Replacing the Presser Foot ......................................................................................42

Presser foot precautions .....................................................................................42

Replacing the presser foot ..................................................................................42

Removing and attaching the presser foot holder ................................................44

Sewing Cylindrical Pieces........................................................................................45

Free-arm sewing.................................................................................................45

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

● Use only regular household electricity for the power source. Using other power sources may result in fire, electric shock, or damage to the machine.

• Make sure that the plugs on the power cord are firmly inserted into the electrical outlet and the power supply jack on the machine.

• Do not insert the plug on the power cord into an electrical outlet that is in poor condition.

● 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

● Use only the power cord included with this machine.

● 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.

Turning on the machine

Prepare the included power cord.

Make sure that the sewing machine is turned off (the main power switch is set to “ ”), and then plug the power cord into the power supply jack on the right side of the machine.

Insert the plug of the power cord into a household electrical outlet.

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 to turn the machine off (set it to “ ”).

1 a Power supply jack c

Press the right side of the main power switch on the right side of the machine to turn the machine on (set it to “I”).

The sewing lamps and the LCD go off when the machine is turned off.

Unplug the power cord from the electrical outlet.

Grasp the plug when unplugging the power cord.

Unplug the power cord from the power supply jack.

The light, LCD and (“Start/Stop” button) light up when the machine is turned on.

Note z If a power outage occurs while the sewing machine is being operated, turn off the sewing machine and unplug the power 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.

Turning the Machine On/Off 17

GETTING READY

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

LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) Operation

Selected stitch, pattern settings and messages are displayed on the LCD (liquid crystal display) on the front of the sewing machine.

Viewing the LCD

When the power is turned on, the LCD comes on, and the following screen is displayed.

The screen is changed using the keys below the screen, and operations performed by directly touching the icons on the LCD screen.

■ Utility stitch selection screen m l k a b c j h i d e g f a Selected stitch b Presser foot to be used c Stitches d Stitch settings and twin needle sewing e Stitch width (mm) f Stitch length (mm) g Thread tension h Number of the selected stitch i Number of stitches contained in the selected stitch type j Horizontal mirror image k Automatic thread cutting l Automatic reverse/reinforcement m Single/twin needle sewing and needle stop position

■ Stitch type selection screen

Press (Utility stitch key) to display the screen for selecting the stitch type. The details are explained in

“Selecting stitching” (page 49).

Memo z A different screen is displayed when the embroidery unit is attached. z Refer to “Error messages” (page 187) for messages displayed on the LCD. z Depending on the model of sewing machine, an animation may be displayed when the power is turned on. When an animation is displayed, the screen above will be displayed if you touch the LCD with your finger.

Changing the machine settings

Various sewing machine operations and sewing settings can be changed.

The stitch or machine attributes that can be set are listed below.

Attribute

Needle position

Stitch width control

Vertical pattern adjustment

Horizontal pattern adjustment

Icon pattern (page 134).

Details

Specifies where the needle is positioned when the sewing machine is stopped.

Allows the stitch width to be adjusted with the sewing speed controller.

Adjusts the up and down position of the

Adjusts the left and right position of the pattern (page 134).

Settings

-9 to +9

Thread color display

Display unit

Embroidery tension

Max embroidery speed

Buzzer

Opening screen

Initial needle position

Language

Changes the thread color display on the embroidery screen.

(When “Thread No. #123” is selected)

Thread color/Time to embroider/

Needle count/Thread number (#123)

Embroidery/Country/Madeira poly/

Madeira rayon/Sulky/Robison anton

Selects the measurement units that are displayed (only for embroidering).

Adjusts the thread tension for embroidering

(only for embroidering). mm/INCH

-8 to +8

Specifies the maximum embroidering speed.

Specifies whether or not a beep is sounded with each operation (page 191).

Sets whether or not to display the opening screen when the power is turned on.

(There are models where this cannot be changed.)

Select the straight stitch that is automatically selected when the machine is turned on.

Allows the language used in the screens to be changed.

English/German/French/Italian/Dutch/

Spanish/Japanese/Danish/Norwegian/

Finnish/Swedish/Portuguese/Russian/

Korean/Thai/others

Adjusts the brightness of the LCD.

LCD brightness

Stitch counter

Display the service count and the total number of embroidery stitches. The service count is a reminder to take your machine in for regular servicing. (Contact your authorized dealer for details.)

Product number

NO.:

The “NO.” is the number for the sewing and embroidery machine.

Program version VERSION: Display the program version.

LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) Operation 19

GETTING READY

— — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — a

Turn on the sewing machine.

X The LCD comes on.

Press panel.

(Settings key) on the operation

The settings screen appears.

Press the item to be set.

Switch screens using and (Next page key).

(Previous page key)

• The items shown in reverse highlighting are the settings at the time of purchase.

Example: Changing the needle stop position

— — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — d

When settings are complete, press

(Back key).

Checking machine operating procedures

Turn on the sewing machine.

The initial screen appears again.

Note z Settings that are changed are not lost when the power is turned off.

X The LCD comes on.

Press (Sewing machine help key) on the operation panel.

X The sewing machine help screen appears.

Press the item to be displayed.

1 2 3 4

7 a Upper threading b Bobbin winding c Bobbin installation d Needle replacement e Embroidery unit attachment f Embroidery frame attachment g Embroidery foot attachment h Presser foot replacement

X The first screen describing the procedure for the selected topic appears.

• Pressing (Back key), returns you to the item selection screen.

LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) Operation 21

GETTING READY

— — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — d

Press next page.

(Next page key) to switch to the

If you press (Previous page key), you return to the previous page.

Example: Upper threading e

After you finish looking, press key) two times.

(Back

X The initial stitch screen appears again.

Note z For details on each topic, refer to the corresponding page in this Operation

Manual.

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

● 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 included bobbin was designed specifically for this sewing machine.

If bobbins from other models are used, the machine will not operate correctly. Use only the included bobbin or bobbins of the same type (part code: SA156, SFB: XA5539-151).

Actual size

11.5 mm

(7/16 inch)

This model Other model

Winding the bobbin

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

1 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.

Winding/Installing the Bobbin 23

GETTING READY

— — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — a

Turn on the sewing machine.

Place the spool of thread for the bobbin onto the spool pin.

Slide the spool onto the pin so that the spool is horizontal and the thread unwinds to the front at the bottom.

Open the top cover.

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

Press down on the bobbin until it snaps into place.

• If the spool is not positioned so that the thread unwinds correctly, the thread may become tangled around the spool pin.

Slide the spool cap onto the spool pin.

Slide the spool cap as far as possible to the right, as shown, with the rounded side on the left.

2 a Notch b Bobbin winder shaft spring d

Slide the bobbin winder in the direction of the arrow until it snaps into place.

●

CAUTION

● If the spool or the spool cap is not positioned correctly, the thread may become tangled around the spool pin and 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 and the needle may break.

• (“Start/Stop” button) lights up in orange.

Remove the spool cap that is inserted onto the spool pin.

24 a Spool pin b Spool cap

Memo z When sewing with fine, cross-wound thread, use the small spool cap, and leave a small space between the cap and the spool.

While holding the thread near the spool with your right hand, as shown, pull the thread with your left hand, and then pass the thread behind the thread guide cover and to the front.

1 c b

1 a a Spool cap (small) b Spool (cross-wound thread) c Space z When using thread that winds off quickly, such as transparent nylon thread or metallic thread, place the spool net over the spool before placing the spool of thread onto the spool pin.

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

z When the spool net is used, the tension of the upper thread will slightly increase. Be sure to check the thread tension. For details, refer to “Adjusting the thread tension” (page

57)".

1 2 a Thread guide cover i

Pass the thread under the thread guide plate, and then pull it to the right.

1 a Thread guide plate j

Pass the thread under the hook on the thread guide, and then wind it counterclockwise under the pretension disk.

4 a Spool net b Spool c Spool cap d Spool pin

1 a Thread guide and pretension disk

Note z Make sure that the thread passes under the pretension disk.

Winding/Installing the Bobbin 25

GETTING READY

— — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — k

While holding the thread with your left hand, wind the thread that was pulled out clockwise around the bobbin five or six times with your right hand.

Press (“Start/Stop” button) once to start winding the bobbin.

Note z Make sure that the thread between the spool and the bobbin is pulled tight.

z Be sure to wind the thread clockwise around the bobbin, otherwise the thread will become wrapped around the bobbin winder shaft.

Pass the end of the thread through the guide slit in the bobbin winder seat, and then pull the thread to the right to cut it.

1 a “Start/Stop” button

• When the bobbin winding becomes slow,

press (“Start/Stop” button) once to stop the machine.

CAUTION

● When the bobbin winding becomes slow, stop the machine, otherwise the sewing machine may be damaged.

Use scissors to cut the end of the thread wound around the bobbin.

1 a Guide slit in bobbin winder seat

(with built-in cutter)

X The thread is cut to a suitable length.

Slide the bobbin winder shaft to the left, and then remove the bobbin from the shaft.

CAUTION

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

Slide the sewing speed controller to the right to increase the bobbin winding speed and slide to left to decrease.

Remove the spool for the bobbin thread from the spool pin, and then close the top cover.

Memo z When the sewing machine is started or the handwheel is turned after winding the bobbin, the machine will make a clicking sound; this is not a malfunction.

26 a Speed controller

Insert the bobbin into the bobbin case so that the thread unrolls to the left.

Installing the bobbin

Install the bobbin wound with thread.

CAUTION

● Use a bobbin that has been correctly wound with thread, otherwise the needle may break or the thread tension will be incorrect.

• Be sure to insert the bobbin correctly.

CAUTION

● Be sure to install the bobbin so that the thread unwinds in the correct direction, otherwise the thread may break or the thread tension will be incorrect.

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

Actual size

11.5 mm

(7/16 inch)

This model Other model

Memo z 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.

Slide the bobbin cover latch to the right.

1 2

1 e

Lightly hold down the bobbin with your right hand, and then guide the thread as shown with your left hand.

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.

CAUTION

● When installing the bobbin, be sure to hold it down with your finger. If the bobbin is not correctly installed, the thread tension will be incorrect.

• Be careful not to drop the bobbin.

Winding/Installing the Bobbin 27

GETTING READY

— — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — f

Pass the thread through the slot as shown, and then pull the thread out toward the front.

1 a Cutter

The cutter cuts the thread.

Note z Make sure that the thread is correctly inserted through the tension-adjusting spring of the bobbin case. If it is not inserted correctly, reinsert the thread.

a Tension-adjusting spring

1 g

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 bobbin threading is finished.

Next, thread the upper thread. Continue with the procedure in “Upper Threading” (page 29).

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 37).

Upper Threading

This section describes how to position the spool for the upper thread, and then thread the needle.

CAUTION

● When threading the upper thread, carefully follow the instructions. If the upper threading is not correct, the thread may become tangled and the needle may bend or break.

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.

About the spool of thread

Information about the spools of thread is described below.

CAUTION

● 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 and the needle may break.

Upper Threading 29

GETTING READY

— — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — d

Open the top cover.

Threading the upper thread

Set the spool of thread on the spool pin, and then thread the machine.

Turn on the sewing machine.

Remove the spool cap that is inserted onto the spool pin.

Raise the presser foot lever to raise the presser foot.

1 a a Presser foot lever

Note z If the presser foot is not raised, the sewing machine cannot be threaded.

Press (“Needle Position” button) once or twice to raise the needle.

a Spool pin b Spool cap

2 f

Place the spool of thread onto the spool pin.

Slide the spool onto the pin so that the spool is horizontal and the thread unwinds to the front at the bottom.

1 a “Needle Position” button

The needle is correctly raised when the mark on the handwheel is at the top, as shown below.

Check the handwheel and, if this mark is not at this position, press button ) until it is.

( “Needle Position”

CAUTION

● If the spool or the spool cap is not positioned correctly, the thread may become tangled around the spool pin and the needle may break.

Slide the spool cap onto the spool pin.

Slide the spool cap as far as possible to the right, as shown, with the rounded side on the left.

30 a Mark on handwheel

— — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — h

While holding the thread lightly with your right hand, pull the thread with your left hand, and then pass the thread behind the thread guide cover and to the front.

Note z If the presser foot has been lowered and the shutter is closed, the machine cannot be threaded. Be sure to raise the presser foot and open the shutter before threading the machine. In addition, before removing the upper thread, be sure to raise the presser foot and open the shutter.

z This machine is equipped with a window that allows you to check the position of the take-up lever. Look through this window and check that the thread is correctly fed through the take-up lever.

a Thread guide cover i

Pass the thread under the thread guide plate, and then pull it up.

1 a Thread guide plate j

While using your right hand to lightly hold the thread passed under the thread guide plate, pass the thread through the thread path in the order shown below.

1 k

Pass the thread behind the needle bar thread guide.

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

1 a Needle bar thread guide

Next, use the needle threader to thread the needle. Continue with the procedure in

“Threading the needle” (page 32).

a Shutter

Upper Threading 31

GETTING READY

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

Threading the needle

This section describes how to thread the needle.

Memo z The needle threader can be used with sewing machine needles 75/11 through 100/16.

z Thread with a thickness of 130/20 or thicker cannot be used with the needle threader.

z The needle threader cannot be used with the wing needle or the twin needle.

z If the needle threader cannot be used, refer to “Threading the needle manually (without using the needle threader)” (page 33).

Note z If the thread is pulled through and cannot be cut correctly, lower the presser foot so that the thread is held in place before cutting the thread. If this operation is performed, skip step c

z When using thread that quickly winds off the spool, such as metallic thread, it may be difficult to thread the needle if the thread is cut.

Therefore, instead of using the thread cutter, pull out about 80 mm (approx. 3 inches) of thread after passing it through the thread guide disks (marked “7”).

Pull the end of the thread passed through the needle bar thread guide to the left, and then pass the thread through the thread guide disk from the front.

1 a 80 mm (3 inches) or more c

Lower the presser foot lever to lower the presser foot.

a Thread guide disk b

Cut the thread with the thread cutter on the left side of the machine.

1 a Presser foot lever d

Lower the needle threader lever on the left side of the machine until it clicks, and then slowly return the lever to its original position.

1 a Needle threader lever

X The thread is passed through the eye of the needle.

32 a Thread cutter

Note z If the needle was not completely threaded, but a loop in the thread was formed in the eye of the needle, carefully pull the loop through the eye of the needle to pull out the end of the thread.

Threading the needle manually

(without using the needle threader)

When using special thread, thread with a thickness of

130/20 or thicker, the wing needle or the twin needle which cannot be used with the needle threader, thread the needle as described below.

Thread the machine to the needle bar thread guide.

• For details, refer to “Upper Threading” (page

29).

Lower the presser foot lever.

CAUTION

● When pulling out the thread, do not pull it with extreme force, otherwise the needle may break or bend.

Raise the presser foot lever, pass the end of the thread through the presser foot, and then pull out about 5 cm (2 inches) of thread toward the rear of the machine.

1 a Pressor foot lever c

Pass the thread through the eye of the needle from front to back.

1 a 5 cm (2 inches)

The upper threading is finished.

Now that the upper threading and the lower threading are finished, you are ready to begin sewing.

Raise the presser foot lever, pass the end of the thread through the presser foot, and then pull out about 5 cm (2 inches) of thread toward the rear of the machine.

Note z If the needle is not raised, the needle threader cannot thread the needle. Be sure to press (“Needle Position” button) to raise the needle before using the needle threader.

Upper Threading 33

GETTING READY

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

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 Setting Chart” (page 68).

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.

1 a Bobbin winder shaft e

Swing down the spool pin so that it is horizontal.

CAUTION

● Only use the twin needle (part code:

X59296-151). 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.

Install the twin needle.

• For details on installing a needle, refer to

“Replacing the needle” (page 40).

Thread the upper thread for the left needle eye.

• For details, refer to steps a

through k

“Threading the upper thread” (page 30).

Manually thread the left needle with the upper thread.

Pass the thread through the eye of the needle from the front.

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.

1 a Spool cap b Spool

• 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.

— — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — g

Thread the upper thread for the right side in the same way that the upper thread for the left side was threaded.

1 j

Turn on the sewing machine and select a stitch.

• For stitch selection see “Selecting stitching”

(page 49).

• See “Stitch Setting Chart” (page 68) for stitches that use a twin needle.

Note z When using the pintuck foot (sold separately) to sew straight pintucks with the twin needle, select the stitch with the center needle position.

a Thread guide cover

• For details, refer to steps h

through j

“Threading the upper thread” (page 31).

Without passing the thread through the needle bar thread guide, manually thread the right needle.

Pass the thread through the eye of the needle from the front.

CAUTION

● When using the twin needle, be sure to select an appropriate stitch, 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.

Press .

• 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 42).

CAUTION

● When using the twin needle, be sure to attach zigzag foot “J”. If bunched stitches occur, use presser foot “N” or attach stabilizer material.

X The screen for setting the twin needle appears.

Upper Threading 35

GETTING READY

— — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — l

Press .

CAUTION

● 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. Otherwise the needle may break or the machine may be damaged.

● Do not try turning the fabric with the twin needle left down in the fabric, otherwise the needle may break or the machine may be damaged.

X displays in reverse highlight.

• If pressed again, it returns to .

The twin needle can now be used.

Press (Back key).

X The initial screen appears again, and appears.

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.

Start sewing.

• For details on starting to sew, refer to

“Starting to sew” (page 51).

Two lines of stitching are sewn parallel to each other.

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 bobbin case.

• Refer to steps a

through e

of “Installing the bobbin” (page 27).

Pass the bobbin thread through the slot.

Do not cut the thread with the cutter.

Pull out about 10-15 cm (4-5 inches) of the bobbin thread under the presser foot toward the rear of the machine.

1 c

While lightly holding the upper thread with your left hand with the needle in the upposition, press (“Needle Position” button) twice to lower and raise the needle.

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.

1 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.

Upper Threading 37

GETTING READY

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

Replacing the Needle

This section describes how to replace the needle.

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.

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.

Fabric Type/Application

Medium weight fabrics

Thin fabrics

Thick fabrics

Stretch fabrics

Broadcloth

Taffeta

Flannel, Gabardine

Lawn

Georgette

Challis, Satin

Denim

Corduroy

Tweed

Jersey

Tricot

Type

Cotton thread

Synthetic thread

Thread

Silk thread

Cotton thread

Synthetic thread

Silk thread

Cotton thread

Synthetic thread

Silk thread

Thread for knits

Weight

60–80

30–50

50–60

Size of Needle

75/11–90/14

65/9–75/11

90/14–100/16

Ball point needle

(gold colored)

75/11–90/14

Easily frayed fabrics

For top-stitching

■ Thread and needle number

The lower the thread number is, the larger the thread, and the larger the needle number, the larger the needle.

■ Ball point needle (gold colored)

To avoid skipped stitches use ball point needles with stretch fabrics.

■ Transparent nylon thread

Use a 90/14 to 100/16 needle, regardless of the fabric or thread.

■ Embroidery needles

Use a 75/11 home sewing machine needle. When embroidering on thick fabrics such as denim, use a 90/14 or 100/16 home sewing machine needle.

Cotton thread

Synthetic thread

Silk thread

Synthetic thread

Silk thread

50–80

65/9–90/14

90/14–100/16

• A 75/11 needle is already installed when the sewing machine is purchased.

CAUTION

● 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.

Replacing the Needle 39

GETTING READY

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

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.

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.

1 a “Needle Position” button b

Turn off the sewing machine.

a Flat side b Needle type marking

CAUTION

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

CAUTION

● Before replacing the needle, be sure to turn off the sewing machine, otherwise injuries may occur if (“Start/Stop” button) is accidentally pressed and the machine starts sewing.

Lower the presser foot lever.

a Flat surface

1 a Presser foot lever d

Place fabric or paper under the presser foot to cover the hole in the needle plate.

Note z Before replacing the needle, cover the hole in the needle plate with fabric or paper to prevent the needle from falling into the machine.

— — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — e

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

1 g

While holding the needle with your left hand, use the screwdriver to tighten the needle clamp screw.

2 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.

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.

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

1 a Needle stopper

Replacing the Needle 41

GETTING READY

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

Replacing the Presser Foot

This section describes how to replace the presser foot.

Presser foot precautions

Be sure to observe the following precautions concerning the presser feet.

CAUTION

● Use the presser foot appropriate for the type of stitch that you wish to sew, otherwise the needle may hit the presser foot, causing the needle to bend or break.

● Only use presser feet designed specifically for this sewing machine. Use of any other presser foot may result in injuries or damage to the machine.

Raise the presser foot lever.

Replacing the presser foot

Replace the presser foot as described below.

Press (“Needle Position” button) once or twice to raise the needle.

1 a “Needle Position” button b

Turn off the sewing machine.

a Presser foot lever

X The presser foot is raised.

Press the black button at the back of the presser foot holder.

a b

CAUTION

● Before replacing the presser foot, be sure to turn off the sewing machine, otherwise injuries may occur if (“Start/Stop” button) is accidentally pressed and the machine starts sewing.

a Black button b Presser foot holder

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.

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.

1 b c a Presser foot holder b Notch c Pin f

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

1 a Presser foot lever

The presser foot is attached.

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

Buttonhole foot “A”

Overcasting foot “G”

Zigzag foot “J”

Button fitting foot “M”

Monogramming foot “N”

Blind stitch foot “R”

Side cutter “S” z For details on the presser foot that should be used with the selected stitch, refer to “Stitch

Setting Chart” (page 68).

Replacing the Presser Foot 43

GETTING READY

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

Removing and attaching 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 embroidery foot and optional quilting foot. Use the screwdriver to remove the presser foot holder.

Remove the presser foot.

• For details, refer to “Replacing the presser foot” (page 42).

Use the screwdriver to loosen the presser foot holder screw.

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

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

b a c a Screwdriver b Presser foot holder c Presser foot holder screw

■ Attaching the presser foot holder a

Raise the presser foot lever.

Align the presser foot holder with the lowerleft side of the presser bar.

Sewing Cylindrical Pieces

Free-arm sewing makes sewing cylindrical pieces easy.

Free-arm sewing

Removing the flat bed attachment allows for free-arm sewing, making it easier to sew cylindrical pieces such as sleeve cuffs and pant legs.

Pull the flat bed attachment off to the left.

X With the flat bed attachment removed, freearm 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 Cylindrical Pieces 45

GETTING READY

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2 SEWING BASICS

The necessary preparations for sewing are described in this chapter.

Sewing.....................................................................................................................48

General sewing procedure .................................................................................48

Selecting stitching ..............................................................................................49

Positioning the fabric .........................................................................................50

Starting to sew ...................................................................................................51

Securing the stitching.........................................................................................53

Cutting the thread ..............................................................................................54

Setting the Stitch .....................................................................................................56

Adjusting the stitch width ..................................................................................56

Adjusting the stitch length..................................................................................57

Adjusting the thread tension ..............................................................................57

Useful Functions......................................................................................................59

Automatically sewing reverse/reinforcement stitches ........................................59

Automatically cutting the thread........................................................................60

Mirroring stitches...............................................................................................61

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

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

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

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

Adjusting the presser foot pressure ....................................................................62

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

Sewing thin fabrics .............................................................................................64

Sewing stretch fabrics ........................................................................................64

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

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

Hands-free raising and lowering of the presser foot...........................................65

SEWING BASICS

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Sewing

Basic sewing operations are described below.

Before operating the sewing machine, read the following precautions.

CAUTION

● While the machine is in operation, pay special attention to the needle location. In addition, keep your hands away from all moving parts such as the needle and handwheel, otherwise injuries may occur.

● Do not pull or push the fabric too hard while sewing, otherwise injuries may occur or the needle may break.

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

● Make sure that the needle does not strike basting pins, otherwise the needle may break or bend.

General sewing procedure

Follow the basic procedures below to sew.

Turn on the machine.

Select the stitch.

Attach the presser foot.

Position the fabric.

Start sewing.

Cut the thread.

Turn on the sewing machine. For details on turning on the machine, refer to “Turning on the machine” (page 17).

↓

Select the stitch appropriate for the area to be sewn. For details on selecting a stitch, refer to “Selecting stitching” (page 49).

↓

Attach the presser foot appropriate for the stitch. (Be sure to turn off the machine before replacing the presser foot.) For details on replacing the presser foot, refer to “Replacing the presser foot” (page 42).

↓

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 50).

↓

Start sewing. For details on starting to sew, refer to “Starting to sew”

(page 51).

↓

Cut the thread at the end of sewing. For details on cutting the thread, refer to “Cutting the thread” (page 54).

Selecting stitching

Stitches are selected using LCD operations. There are

71 utility stitches. Right after turning the power on, the straight stitch (left needle position) is selected.

The machine can also be set to select the straight stitch (center needle position). For details on changing the setting, refer to page 19.

Determine the stitch to be used, and get the matching presser foot ready.

• Refer to “Stitch Setting Chart” (page 68).

Attach the presser foot.

The machine comes with zigzag foot “J” attached.

• For details, refer to “Replacing the presser foot” (page 42).

CAUTION

● Use the presser foot appropriate for the stitch. If the wrong presser foot is used, the needle may hit the presser foot and break or bend. c

Turn on the sewing machine.

The straight stitch (left needle position) is shown selected in the LCD.

• When an animation is displayed on the screen, touch the screen with your finger.

Select a stitch.

(Previous page key) displays the previous screen, and (Next page key) displays the next screen.

Example: 11

is selected:

The stitch is selected, and the stitch number and settings are displayed. e

If necessary, specify the setting for automatic reverse/reinforcement stitching and adjust the stitch length, etc.

Memo z Uses of stitches and other stitch selections are explained in “UTILITY STITCHES” (page 67).

z Automatic reverse/reinforcement stitching and other settings are explained in “Useful

Functions” (page 59).

z The procedures for specifying the thread tension are described in “Adjusting the thread tension” (page 57).

z Procedures for changing the stitch width and length are described in “Adjusting the stitch width” (page 56) and “Adjusting the stitch length” (page 57).

Note z When a stitch is selected, the icon for the presser foot that should be used appears on the screen. For details, refer to “Replacing the presser foot” (page 42). 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.

Sewing 49

SEWING BASICS

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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.

While holding the end of the thread and the fabric with your left hand, turn the handwheel toward you (counterclockwise) with your right hand to lower the needle to the starting point of the stitching.

Press (“Needle Position” button) once or twice to raise the needle.

1 a “Needle Position” button c

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.

Lower the presser foot lever.

1 a Presser foot lever

The fabric is now positioned to be sewn.

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 sewing speed controller or the foot controller.

Note z When the foot controller is plugged in,

(“Start/Stop” button) cannot be used to start or stop sewing.

■ Using the operation button

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.

• 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 have finished sewing, press

(“Needle Position” button).

The needle is raised.

Cut the threads.

• For details, refer to “Cutting the thread” (page

54).

2 a Sewing speed controller b

Press (“Start/Stop” button) once.

Note z This machine will automatically stop when the bobbin becomes almost empty. When the machine stops, replace the bobbin thread, and then press (“Start/Stop” button) to begin sewing again.

■ Using the foot controller

Sewing can be started and stopped using the foot controller.

1 a “Start/Stop” button

The machine starts sewing.

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.

Sewing 51

SEWING BASICS

— — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — b

Insert the foot controller plug into its jack on the right side of the sewing machine.

Slower a Foot controller jack

Note

(For U.S.A. only) z Foot controller: Model T

This foot controller can be used on this machine model NV1200.

Turn on the sewing machine.

Faster

• Slowly press down on the foot controller.

Pressing it down hard starts sewing too quickly.

The machine starts sewing.

When the end of the stitching is reached, completely release the foot controller.

The machine stops sewing with the needle lowered (in the fabric).

When you have finished sewing, press

(“Needle Position” button).

X The needle is raised.

Cut the threads.

• For details, refer to “Cutting the thread” (page

54).

Slide the sewing speed controller to the left or right to select the foot controller's maximum sewing speed.

Slide the sewing speed controller to the left to select a lower maximum sewing speed, or slide the speed controller to the right to select a higher maximum sewing speed.

Memo z When the foot controller is plugged in,

(“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 machine settings” (page 19).

a Sewing speed controller

• The speed set using the sewing speed controller will be 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.

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.

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.

1 b

Press (“Start/Stop” button) or press down on the foot controller.

At this time, if (“Start/Stop” button) is held down, the machine sews at a slow speed.

a “Reverse/Reinforcement Stitch” button

X While Stitch” button) is held down, reverse stitches are sewn.

2 d

After sewing back to the beginning of the stitching, release

Stitch” button).

(“Reverse/Reinforcement

The machine stops sewing.

Press (“Start/Stop” button), or press down on the foot controller.

The machine starts sewing in the normal sewing direction.

1 a “Start/Stop” button

• For details, refer to “Starting to sew” (page

51).

X The machine starts sewing.

After sewing 3 to 5 stitches, press

(“Reverse/Reinforcement Stitch” button).

Keep (“Reverse/Reinforcement Stitch” button) held down until you reach the beginning of the stitching.

• The machine sews at a slow speed when

(“Reverse/Reinforcement Stitch” button) is held down.

When the end of the stitching is reached, press

(“Reverse/Reinforcement Stitch” button).

Keep (“Reverse/Reinforcement Stitch” button) held down until 3 to 5 reverse stitches are sewn.

X While Stitch” button) is held down, reverse stitches are sewn.

Sewing 53

SEWING BASICS

— — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — g

After 3 to 5 reverse stitches have been sewn, button).

X The machine stops sewing.

Press (“Start/Stop” button), or press down on the foot controller.

At this time, if (“Start/Stop” button) is held down, the machine sews at a slow speed.

The machine starts sewing in the normal sewing direction.

After sewing to the end of the stitching, the sewing machine stops.

Press (“Start/Stop” button) or release foot controller.

3 1

Cutting the thread

When you have finished sewing, cut the threads.

■ Using (“Thread Cutter” button) a

When you wish to finish the stitching, press

(“Thread Cutter” button) once.

1 a “Thread Cutter” button

X The threads are cut and the needle is raised.

Raise the presser foot lever, then remove the fabric.

2 a Beginning of stitching b End of stitching

■ Sewing stitches

Reverse stitches are set for the

1 stitches.

and

7 button) is pressed with stitches other than these, reinforcement stitches are used. Reinforcement stitches are 3 to 5 stitches sewn on top of each other in one place. a Presser foot lever a

CAUTION

● Do not press (“Thread Cutter” button) after threads have already been cut, otherwise the needle may break, the threads may become tangled or damage to the machine may occur.

● Do not press (“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.

1 a Reverse stitching b Reinforcement stitching

Memo z The sewing machine can be set to automatically sew reverse or reinforcement stitches at the beginning and end of the stitching. For details, refer to “Automatically sewing reverse/ reinforcement stitches” (page 59).

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 60).

■ Using the 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.

1 a “Needle Position” button

The needle is raised.

Raise the presser foot lever.

a a Presser foot lever c

Pull the fabric to the left side of the machine, and then pass the threads through the thread cutter to cut them.

1 a Thread cutter

Sewing 55

SEWING BASICS

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Setting the Stitch

This machine is preset with the default settings for the stitch width, stitch length, and upper thread tension for each stitch.However, you can change any of the settings by pressing in the screen, then following the procedure described in this section.

Note z If the thread tension cannot be adjusted as desired, refer to “Troubleshooting” (page 184).

z Settings for some stitches cannot be changed. For details, refer to “Stitch Setting Chart” (page 68).

z Stitch settings return to their defaults if they are changed, when the machine is turned off or a different stitch is selected before the stitch setting is saved.

Adjusting the stitch width

The stitch width (zigzag width) can be adjusted to make the stitch wider or narrower.

Each press of makes the zigzag stitch narrower.

Memo z Press to return the setting to its default.

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 sewing machine can be set so that the stitch width can easily be changed with the z sewing speed controller. For details, refer to

“Satin stitching using the sewing speed controller” (page 109).

means the setting cannot be adjusted.

Each press of makes the zigzag stitch wider.

CAUTION

● After adjusting the stitch width, slowly turn the handwheel toward you

(counterclockwise) and check that the needle does not touch the presser foot. If the needle hits the presser foot, the needle may bend or break.

Adjusting the stitch length

The stitch length can be adjusted to make the stitch longer or shorter.

Adjusting the thread tension

You may need to change the thread tension, depending on the fabric and thread being used.

Each press of makes the stitch shorter.

Each press of makes the stitch longer.

Memo z Press to return the setting to its default.

means the setting cannot be adjusted.

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.

■ 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.

4 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.

4 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.

Each press of makes the thread tension looser.

Setting the Stitch 57

SEWING BASICS

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■ Upper thread is too loose

If the upper thread is visible from the wrong side of the fabric, the upper thread is too loose.

4 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.

Each press of makes the thread tension tighter.

Memo z Press default.

to return the setting to its

Note z If the upper thread is not threaded correctly or the bobbin is not installed correctly, it may not be possible to set the correct thread tension. If the correct thread tension cannot be achieved, rethread the upper thread and insert the bobbin correctly.

Useful Functions

Functions useful in improving sewing efficiency are described below.

Automatically sewing reverse/ reinforcement stitches

Position the fabric under the presser foot, and then press (“Start/Stop” button) once.

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 Setting

Chart” (page 68).

Turn on the sewing machine.

1 a “Start/Stop” button

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.

X The LCD comes on.

Select a stitch.

• For details on selecting a stitch, refer to

“Selecting stitching” (page 49).

Press on the LCD.

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.

1 a “Reverse/Reinforcement Stitch” button

X After reverse/reinforcement stitches are sewn, the sewing machine stops.

X It turns to , and the sewing machine is set for automatic reverse/reinforcement stitching.

• To turn automatic reverse/reinforcement stitching off, press .

• When the sewing machine is turned off, the automatic reverse/reinforcement stitching setting is cancelled.

Memo z Reverse/reinforcement stitches WILL NOT be sewn until (“Reverse/Reinforcement

Stitch” button) is pressed. (“Start/Stop” button) may be pressed to stop stitching when needed such as for pivoting corners.

Useful Functions 59

SEWING BASICS

— — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — d

Set the fabric in place, and press

Stop” button) once.

(“Start/

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 threadcutting is set, automatic reverse/reinforcement stitching is also set.

Turn on the sewing machine.

X The LCD comes on.

Select a stitch.

• For details on selecting a stitch, refer to

“Selecting stitching” (page 49).

Press on the screen. a “Start/Stop” button

Stitching starts after reverse stitching or reinforcement stitching. e

Once you have reached the end of the stitching, press (“Reverse/Reinforcement

Stitch” button) once.

If stitching, such as buttonholes and bar tacking, that includes reinforcement stitching has been selected, this operation is unnecessary.

After the reverse stitching or reinforcement stitching has been done, the sewing machine stops, and the thread is cut.

X You get , and the sewing machine is set for programmed thread-cutting and automatic reverse/reinforcement stitching.

• To turn programmed thread cutting off, press

The thread is cut here.

Memo z Reverse/reinforcement stitches WILL NOT be sewing and the thread will not automatically be cut until (“Reverse/

Reinforcement Stitch” button) is pressed.

(“Start/Stop” button) may be pressed to stop stitching when needed such as for pivoting corners.

z If the power is turned off, programmed thread-cutting will be turned off.

Mirroring stitches

You can sew the mirror image of a stitch horizontally

(left and right).

Turn on the sewing machine.

The LCD comes on.

Select a stitch.

• For details on selecting a stitch, refer to

“Selecting stitching” (page 49).

on the screen. c

Press

X It turns to , and the pattern displayed at the top of the screen is mirrored.

• To turn the mirrored stitching off, press .

Memo z Mirroring is not possible for buttonholes and other stitches where shows.

z When the sewing machine is turned off, the mirroring setting is cancelled.

Useful Functions 61

SEWING BASICS

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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.

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.

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.

Adjusting the presser foot pressure

The presser foot pressure (the amount of pressure applied to the fabric by the presser foot) can be adjusted. For best results, increase the pressure when sewing thin fabrics, and decrease the pressure when sewing thick fabrics.

Lower the presser foot lever to lower the presser foot.

a Presser foot lever

1 c

Lower the presser foot lever and continue sewing.

— — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — b

Turn the presser foot pressure dial at the back of the machine to adjust the pressure of the presser foot.

The presser foot pressure can be set to one of four levels (between 1 and 4). The larger the setting, the stronger the pressure. Use setting 1 or 2 for thick fabrics, use setting 3 or 4 for thinner fabrics.

1 2 a

When you encounter a seam that is too thick to feed under the foot, raise the presser foot lever.

Press the black button (presser foot holding pin) on the left side of zigzag foot “J”. Keep the button held in and lower the presser foot.

2 a Strong b Weak c

When you are finished sewing, reset the dial to

3 (standard).

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.

a Presser foot holding pin

Note z The presser foot needs to be in a level position before pressing the black button

(presser foot holding pin) on the left side of zigzag foot “J”.

Release the button. The foot will lock in place level with the seam, allowing the fabric to feed.

■ 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.

Once the trouble spot has been passed, the foot will return to its normal position.

CAUTION

● If fabric more than 6 mm (15/64 inch) thick is sewn or if the fabric is pushed with too much force, the needle may bend or break.

a a Sewing direction

Useful Sewing Tips 63

SEWING BASICS

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

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.

Sewing an even seam allowance

To sew an even seam, start sewing so that the seam allowance is to the right of the presser foot, and the edge of the fabric is aligned with either the right edge of the presser foot or a marking on the needle plate.

■ Aligning the fabric with the presser foot

Sew while keeping the right edge of the presser foot a fixed distance from the edge of the fabric.

1 a Stabilizer material or paper

Sewing stretch fabrics

First, baste the pieces of fabric together, and then sew without stretching the fabric.

1 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.

2 3 a Basting

Besides, using the stretch stitching or the thread for knits gives an attractive finishes.

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 Seam b Stitch guide foot c Markings

64 a Leather

■ 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).

Hands-free raising and lowering 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 a

Turn off the sewing machine.

2 3

6 a Seam b Presser foot c Centimeters d Inches e Needle plate f 1.6 cm (5/8 inch) b

Insert the knee lifter into the mounting slot on the front of the sewing machine in the lowerright corner.

Align the tabs on the knee lifter with the notches in the mounting slot, and then insert the knee lifter as far as possible.

1 a Tabs b Notches

Note z If the knee lifter is not fully inserted into the mounting slot, it may fall out while the sewing machine is operating.

Useful Sewing Tips 65

SEWING BASICS

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

■ Using the knee lifter a

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.

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.

3 UTILITY STITCHES

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

Stitch Setting Chart .............................68

Utility stitches ................................ 68

Other stitches................................. 72

Selecting Stitching ...............................75

Stitch types.....................................75

Selecting stitching .......................... 75

Saving stitch settings ......................77

Overcasting Stitches............................ 79

Sewing overcasting stitches using overcasting foot “G” ............. 79

Sewing overcasting stitches using zigzag foot “J” ......................80

Sewing overcasting stitches using the optional side cutter .........81

Basic Stitching .....................................83

Basting ...........................................83

Basic stitching ................................ 83

Blind Hem Stitching ............................ 85

Buttonhole Stitching/Button Sewing....87

Buttonhole sewing.......................... 88

Button sewing ................................ 92

Zipper Insertion...................................94

Inserting a centered zipper ............94

Inserting a side zipper .................... 96

Zipper/piping Insertion .......................99

Inserting a centered zipper ............99

Inserting a piping ......................... 100

Sewing Stretch Fabrics and

Elastic Tape ..........................................101

Stretch stitching ........................... 101

Elastic attaching ........................... 101

Appliqué, Patchwork and

Quilt Stitching .................................... 103

Appliqué stitching ........................104

Patchwork (crazy quilt) stitching..105

Piecing..........................................105

Quilting ........................................107

Free-motion quilting.....................108

Satin stitching using the sewing speed controller ...........................109

Reinforcement Stitching ....................111

Triple stretch stitching..................111

Bar tack stitching..........................111

Darning .............................................113

Eyelet Stitching ..................................115

Horizontal Stitching ..........................116

Decorative Stitching ..........................118

Fagoting........................................119

Scallop stitching ...........................120

Smocking......................................120

Shell tuck stitching .......................121

Joining ..........................................122

Heirloom stitching........................123

Sewing the Various Built-in

Decorative Patterns ...........................126

Sewing beautiful patterns .............126

Sewing patterns ............................126

Changing the pattern size.............127

Changing the stitch density ..........127

Changing the length for satin stitches ...........................128

Shifting patterns ...........................129

Combining patterns ......................130

Saving patterns .............................133

Realigning the pattern ..................134

Designing a Pattern

(My Custom Stitch)............................137

Drawing a sketch of the pattern ...137

Entering the pattern data..............138

Examples of designs......................140

UTILITY STITCHES

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

Stitch Setting Chart

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

Straight stitch

Triple stretch stitch

Stretch stitch

Pattern

Application

Basic stitching, sewing gathers or pintucks, etc.

Auto

0.0

(0)

Stitch Width

[mm (inch)]

Manual

0.0–7.0

(0–1/4)

Stitch Length

[mm (inch)]

Auto Manual

2.5

(3/32)

0.2–5.0

(1/64–3/16)

Yes

(J)

Reverse/

Reinforcement

Stitching

Reverse No

Basic stitching and sewing gathers or pintucks

J/I

Attaching zippers, basic stitching, sewing gathers or pintucks, etc.

Attaching sleeves, sewing inseams, sewing stretch fabrics and decorative stitching

Sewing stretch fabrics and decorative stitching

0.0

(0)

3.5

(1/8)

0.0

(0)

0.0–7.0

(0–1/4)

0.0–7.0

(0–1/4)

0.0–7.0

(0–1/4)

2.5

(3/32)

2.5

(3/32)

2.5

(3/32)

0.2–5.0

(1/64–3/16)

0.2–5.0

(1/64–3/16)

1.5–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

Yes

(J)

Yes

(J)

Yes

(J)

Reinforcement

Reverse

Reinforcement

Yes

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

(J)

Reinforcement No

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 No

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

(J)

Reverse No

Zigzag stitch

2-point zigzag stitch

3-point zigzag stitch

Beginning sewing from the right needle position

3.5

(1/8)

Overcasting on medium weight or stretch fabrics, attaching elastic, darning, etc.

5.0

(3/16)

5.0

(3/16)

2.5–5.0

(3/32–3/16)

1.4

(1/16)

0.3–4.0

(1/64–3/16)

Yes

(J)

Reinforcement Yes

1.5–7.0

(1/16–1/4)

1.5–7.0

(1/16–1/4)

1.0

(1/16)

1.0

(1/16)

0.2–4.0

(1/64–3/16)

0.2–4.0

(1/64–3/16)

Yes

(J)

Yes

(J)

Reinforcement

Yes

Overcasting on thin or medium weight 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 No

G 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 No

Preventing fraying in thick fabrics and fabrics that fray easily

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 No

Overcasting stitch

J Overcasting on stretch fabrics

5.0

(3/16)

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

(J)

Reinforcement No

0.0–7.0

(0–1/4)

2.5

(3/32)

0.5–4.0

(1/32–3/16)

Yes

(J)

Reinforcement No

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

(J)

Reinforcement No

Stitch Name

Blind hem stitch

Appliqué stitch

Shell tuck stitch

Piecing straight stitch

Straight stitch that looks hand-sewn

(for quilting)

Zigzag stitch

(for quilting)

Appliqué stitch

(for quilting)

Quilting stitch

(for stippling)

Satin scallop stitch

Pattern

Application

Stitch Width

[mm (inch)]

Blind hem stitching on medium weight fabrics

Auto

(0)

Manual

← – →3

Stitch Length

[mm (inch)]

Reverse/

Reinforcement

Stitching

Auto Manual

2.0

(1/16)

1.0–3.5

(1/16–1/8)

No Reinforcement No

Blind hem stitching on stretch fabrics

(0)

3 ← – →3

2.0

(1/16)

1.0–3.5

(1/16–1/8)

No Reinforcement No

J Appliqué stitching

3.5

(1/8)

2.5–7.0

(3/32–1/4)

2.5

(3/32)

1.6–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

Yes

(J)

Reinforcement No

Shell tuck stitching

Straight stitch quilting that looks hand-sewn

4.0

(3/16)

Piecing straight stitching (with a seam allowance of 6.5 mm (1/4 inch) from the right edge of the presser foot)

Piecing straight stitching (with a seam allowance of 6.5 mm (1/4 inch) from the left edge of the presser foot)

5.5

(7/32)

1.5

(1/16)

0.0

(0)

0.0–7.0

(0–1/4)

2.5

(3/32)

0.2–4.0

(1/64–3/16)

Yes

(J)

Reinforcement No

0.0–7.0

(0–1/4)

0.0–7.0

(0–1/4)

0.0–7.0

(0–1/4)

2.0

(1/16)

2.0

(1/16)

2.5

(3/32)

0.2–5.0

(1/64–3/16)

0.2–5.0

(1/64–3/16)

1.0–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

No Reinforcement No

No Reinforcement Yes

No Reinforcement No

Appliqué quilting, free-motion quilting, satin stitching

Attaching appliqués and binding

Quilting background stitching

(stippling)

N Scallop stitching

3.5

(1/8)

1.5

(1/16)

7.0

(1/4)

5.0

(3/16)

0.0–7.0

(0–1/4)

0.5–5.0

(1/32–3/16)

1.0–7.0

(1/16–1/4)

2.5–7.0

(3/32–1/4)

1.4

(1/16)

1.8

(1/16)

1.6

(1/16)

0.5

(1/32)

0.0–4.0

(0–3/16)

1.0–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

1.0–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

No Reinforcement No

0.1–1.0

(1/64–1/16)

Yes

(J)

Reinforcement

Yes

Joining stitch

Patchwork stitching and decorative stitching

4.0

(3/16)

Patchwork stitching, decorative stitching and sewing overcasting on both pieces of fabric, such as with tricot

5.0

(3/16)

Patchwork stitching and decorative stitching

5.0

(3/16)

0.0–7.0

(0–1/4)

0.0–7.0

(0–1/4)

1.2

(1/16)

2.5–7.0

(3/32–1/4)

2.5

(3/32)

1.0–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

Yes

(J)

Reinforcement No

1.2

(1/16)

0.2–4.0

(1/64–3/16)

0.2–4.0

(1/64–3/16)

Yes

(J)

Yes

(J)

Reinforcement

Smocking stitch J

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

(J)

Reinforcement No

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

(J)

Reinforcement No

Fagoting stitch

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

(J)

Reinforcement No

Elastic-attaching stitch

Ladder stitch

Attaching elastic to stretch fabrics

Decorative stitching

4.0

(3/16)

0.0–7.0

(0–1/4)

1.0

(1/16)

0.2–4.0

(1/64–3/16)

Yes

(J)

Reinforcement No

Rick-rack stitch

J Decorative stitching

4.0

(3/16)

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 No

0.0–7.0

(0–1/4)

2.5

(3/32)

1.0–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

Yes

(J)

Reinforcement No

Stitch Setting Chart 69

UTILITY STITCHES

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

Stitch Name

Decorative stitch

Serpentine stitch

Hemstitching

Pattern

Application

Decorative stitching

Auto

5.5

(7/32)

Stitch Width

[mm (inch)]

Manual

0.0–7.0

(0–1/4)

Stitch Length

[mm (inch)]

Reverse/

Reinforcement

Stitching

Auto Manual

1.6

(1/16)

1.0–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

Yes

(J)

Reinforcement No

Decorative stitching and elasticattaching

5.0

(3/16)

Lace sewing, decorative hemming, heirloom stitching, etc.

3.5

(1/8)

1.5–7.0

(1/16–1/4)

1.0

(1/16)

0.2–4.0

(1/64–3/16)

Yes

(J)

Reinforcement No

1.5–7.0

(1/16–1/4)

2.5

(3/32)

1.6–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

No Reinforcement No

Decorative hemming, heirloom stitching, etc.

6.0

(15/64)

1.5–7.0

(1/16–1/4)

Decorative hemming on thin, medium weight and plain weave fabrics, heirloom stitching, etc.

Decorative hemming, ribbon threading, heirloom stitching, etc.

5.0

(3/16)

5.0

(3/16)

5.0

(3/16)

5.0

(3/16)

5.0

(3/16)

1.5–7.0

(1/16–1/4)

1.5–7.0

(1/16–1/4)

1.5–7.0

(1/16–1/4)

1.5–7.0

(1/16–1/4)

1.5–7.0

(1/16–1/4)

3.0

(1/8)

3.5

(1/8)

4.0

(3/16)

1.5–4.0

1/16–3/16)

Yes

(J)

Reinforcement No

2.5

(3/32)

1.5–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

Yes

(J)

Reinforcement No

2.0

(1/16)

3.0

(1/8)

1.5–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

1.5–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

1.5–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

1.5–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

Yes

(J)

Yes

(J)

Reinforcement

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 No

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 No

Horizontal buttonholes on thin and medium weight fabrics

5.0

(3/16)

3.0–5.0

(1/8–3/16)

0.4

(1/64)

0.2–1.0

(1/64–1/16)

Automatic reinforcement

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

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

Buttonhole stitch A

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

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

A 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

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

Stitch Name

Buttonhole stitch

Pattern

Application

Stitch Width

[mm (inch)]

Auto

Keyhole buttonholes for thick or furry fabrics

7.0

(1/4)

Manual

3.0–7.0

(1/8–1/4)

Keyhole buttonholes for medium weight and thick fabrics

7.0

(1/4)

3.0–7.0

(1/8–1/4)

Stitch Length

[mm (inch)]

Auto Manual

0.5

(1/32)

0.3–1.0

(1/64–1/16)

0.5

(1/32)

0.3–1.0

(1/64–1/16)

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)

Reverse/

Reinforcement

Stitching

Automatic reinforcement

A Darning medium weight 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

Darning stitch

Bar tack stitch

Button-sewing stitch

Eyelet stitch

A Darning thick fabrics

M Button sewing

7.0

(1/4)

Reinforcing openings and areas where the seam easily comes loose

2.0

(1/16)

3.5

(1/8)

Sewing eyelets, for example, on belts

Sewing straight stitches while cutting the fabric

7.0

(1/4)

0.0

(0)

2.5–7.0

(3/32–1/4)

1.0–3.0

(1/16–1/8)

2.0

(1/16)

0.4

(1/64)

0.4–2.5

(1/64–3/32)

0.3–1.0

(1/64–1/16)

Automatic reinforcement

2.5–4.5

(3/32–3/16)

7.0, 6.0,

5.0 (1/4,

15/64,

3/16)

0.0–2.5

(0–3/32)

–

7.0

(1/4)

–

7.0, 6.0,

5.0 (1/4,

15/64,

3/16)

Automatic reinforcement

2.5

(3/32)

0.2–5.0

(1/64–3/16)

No Reinforcement No

Side cutter

Horizontal straight stitch

Sewing zigzag stitches while cutting the fabric

Overcasting on thin and medium weight fabrics while cutting the fabric

Overcasting on thick fabrics while cutting the fabric

3.5

(1/8)

3.5

(1/8)

3.5–5.0

(1/8–3/16)

3.5–5.0

(1/8–3/16)

1.4

(1/16)

2.0

(1/16)

0.0–4.0

(0–3/16)

1.0–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

No Reinforcement No

5.0

(3/16)

3.5–5.0

(1/8–3/16)

Overcasting on medium weight and thick fabrics while cutting the fabric

5.0

(3/16)

Attaching appliqués to sleeves

(straight stitch sewn to the left)

–

3.5–5.0

(1/8–3/16)

–

2.5

(3/32)

1.0–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

No Reinforcement No

2.5

(3/32)

–

1.0–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

–

No Reinforcement No

Attaching appliqués to sleeves

(straight stitch sewn to the right)

– – – – No Reinforcement No

Horizontal zigzag stitch

Attaching appliqués to sleeves

(zigzag stitch sewn to the left)

– – – – No Reinforcement No

Attaching appliqués to sleeves

(zigzag stitch sewn to the right)

– – – – No Reinforcement No

Stitch Setting Chart 71

UTILITY STITCHES

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

Other stitches

Stitch Type Pattern

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20

Decorative stitches

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

N No

Large,

Small No

Large:

Small:

Yes

(*Not possible)

Yes

31**

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Satin stitches

11 12 13 14 15 16 17* 18*

Yes

(*Not possible)

Large No

Yes

(*Not possible)

Yes

(*Not possible)

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Crossstitches 11* 12* 13* 14* 15*

N No Large No

Yes

(*Not possible)

Yes

Decorative satin stitches

2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Large,

Small Yes

Yes

(length only)

Yes

11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20

Combined utility stitches

21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30

N No Large No Yes

31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39

Yes

** Pattern for making adjustment

Stitch Type Pattern

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 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 36 37 38 39 40

Character stitches

(Gothic font)

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

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 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 36 37 38 39 40

41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50

Character stitches

(Script font)

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

N No Large, No

N No Large No

No Yes

Stitch Setting Chart 73

UTILITY STITCHES

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

Stitch Type Pattern

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 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 36 37 38 39 40

Character stitches

(Outline style)

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

N No Large, No No Yes

Selecting Stitching

This section provides details on the various types of stitches available and the procedure for selecting a stitch.

Stitch types

h Combined utility stitches

(Can be combined)

You can sew with combinations from 39 utility stitches.

A stitch can be selected from the following types available.

For details on the various stitches, refer to “Stitch

Setting Chart” (page 68). i Decorative satin stitches

(Can be combined)

There are 10 decorative satin stitches.

a c f i j j Cross stitches

(Can be combined)

You can select from 15 cross stitches. You can sew combinations of multiple decorative stitches.

k Patterns saved in the machine's memory

You can retrieve a saved pattern. (For details, refer to “Saving patterns” (page 133).)

Selecting stitching

Turn on the sewing machine.

b d e g h k a Utility stitches

You can select from 71 utility stitches, including straight line stitching, overcasting, button holes and basic decorative stitches. If this is selected, the utility stitch selection appears right after the power is turned on. b My Custom Stitch

You can design original stitches. (For details, refer to “Designing a Pattern (My Custom Stitch)” (page

137).) c Character stitches—Gothic font

(Can be combined)

There are 97 characters, including letters, symbols and numbers, in the Gothic font.

d Character stitches—Script font

(Can be combined)

There are 97 characters, including letters, symbols and numbers, in the Script font.

e Character stitches—Outline style

(Can be combined)

There are 97 characters, including letters, symbols and numbers, in the outline style.

f Decorative stitches

(Can be combined)

You can select from 31 decorative stitches, including leaves, flowers and hearts. You can sew combinations of multiple decorative stitches. g Satin stitches

(Can be combined)

You can select from 18 satin stitches. You can sew combinations of multiple decorative stitches.

• When an animation is displayed on the screen, touch the screen with your finger.

The straight stitch (left needle position) is shown selected on the screen.

Press panel.

(Utility stitch key) on the operation

X The screen containing the various types of stitches appears.

Selecting Stitching 75

UTILITY STITCHES

— — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — c

Select the stitch type.

When a decorative stitch is selected

X The screen containing the various stitches in the selected stitch type appears.

• To select a different stitch type, press

(Back key).

Press the stitch selection.

(Previous page key) displays the previous screen, and next screen.

(Next page key) displays the e

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, begin on page 79.

Note z When a stitch is selected, the icon for the presser foot that should be used appears on the screen. Check that the correct presser foot is attached before starting to sew. If the wrong presser foot is installed, turn off the sewing machine, attach the correct presser foot, and then select the desired stitch again.

k j

Memo z For details on adjusting the stitch width and length, refer to “Adjusting the stitch width”

(page 56) and “Adjusting the stitch length”

(page 57).

■ Selecting characters

Three styles of character stitches are available.

The procedure for selecting a character is the same with all styles.

Follow steps a

and b

in “Selecting stitching”

(page 75) to display the screen where a stitch type can be selected.

Select the character style.

a b c d e f a Decorative stitch selection b Set width, length and tension c Large pattern size d Small pattern size e Single stitch sewing f Repeat sewing g Horizontal mirror image h Delete a selected pattern i Check combined pattern j Automatic thread cutting k Automatic reverse/reinforcement stitch

• To select a different stitch, press remove the selected pattern.

to i h g c

Select the characters.

• If a wrong character was selected, press to erase the character, and then select the correct character.

• To select a different character style, press

, and then select the new character style.

• Press to view a sample of the selected pattern.

Example: Bus

Saving stitch settings

This machine is preset with the default settings for the stitch width (zigzag width), stitch length, thread tension, programmed thread cutting, and automatic reverse/reinforcement stitching for each stitch.

However, if you wish to save specific settings for a stitch so that they can be used later, press after changing the settings to save the new settings with the selected stitch.

This feature can be used only with utility stitches.

To use a stitch length of 2.0 mm for the straight stitch a

Select a straight stitch.

Press .

Memo z The default stitch length is 2.5 mm.

3 c

Set the stitch length to 2.0 mm.

Press .

• To reset the selected stitch pattern to its default settings, press

, and then press

The confirmation message is displayed.

Selecting Stitching 77

UTILITY STITCHES

— — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — e

Press .

Note z The next time that the same straight stitch is selected, the stitch length is set to 2.0 mm.

z All stitch settings (stitch width (zigzag width), stitch length, thread tension, programmed thread cutting, and automatic reverse/reinforcement stitching, etc.) are saved, not just the setting that was changed.

When the same stitch pattern is selected, the last settings saved are displayed even if the machine was turned off. If the settings are changed again, or if is pressed to reset the setting to its default, the new settings are not saved unless time.

is pressed another

Even if is pressed, the settings for programmed thread cutting and automatic reverse/reinforcement stitching cannot be reset.

Overcasting Stitches

Sew overcasting stitches along the edges of cut fabric to prevent fabric from fraying. 15 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”.

Stitch Name Pattern

Overcasting stitch

Application

Preventing fraying in medium weight and thin fabrics

Preventing fraying in thick fabrics and fabrics that fray easily

Stitch Width

[mm (inch)]

Auto Manual

3.5

(1/8)

2.5–5.0

(3/32–3/16)

5.0

(3/16)

5.0

(3/16)

2.5–5.0

(3/32–3/16)

3.5–5.0

(1/8–3/16)

Stitch Length

[mm (inch)]

Auto Manual

2.0

(1/16)

1.0–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

2.5

(3/32)

2.5

(3/32)

1.0–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

1.0–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

Presser

Foot

G a

Attach overcasting foot “G”.

G c

Position the fabric with the edge of the fabric against the guide of the presser foot, and then lower the presser foot lever.

• For details, refer to “Replacing the presser foot” (page 42).

Select a stitch.

a a Guide d

Sew with the edge of the fabric against the presser foot guide.

• For details, refer to “Selecting stitching” (page

49).

a Needle drop point

Overcasting Stitches 79

UTILITY STITCHES

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

Sewing overcasting stitches using zigzag foot “J”

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

Stitch Name Pattern Application

Stitch Width

[mm (inch)]

Auto Manual

Zigzag stitch

(center needle position)

Zigzag stitch

(right needle position)

2-point zigzag stitch

3-point zigzag stitch

Overcasting stitch

Preventing fraying (center baseline/reverse stitching)

Preventing fraying (right baseline/reinforcement stitching)

Preventing fraying in thick fabrics and stretch fabrics

Preventing fraying in stretch fabrics

Preventing fraying in thick fabrics and stretch fabrics

Preventing fraying in stretch fabrics

3.5

(1/8)

3.5

(1/8)

5.0

(3/16)

5.0

(3/16)

5.0

(3/16)

5.0

(3/16)

4.0

(3/16)

0.0–7.0

(0–1/4)

2.5–5.0

(3/32–3/16)

1.4

(1/16)

0.3–4.0

(1/64–3/16)

1.5–7.0

(1/16–1/4)

1.5–7.0

(1/16–1/4)

0.0–7.0

(0–1/4)

0.0–7.0

(0–1/4)

0.0–7.0

(0–1/4)

Stitch Length

[mm (inch)]

Auto

1.4

(1/16)

1.0

(1/16)

1.0

(1/16)

2.5

(3/32)

2.5

(3/32)

4.0

(3/16)

Manual

0.0–4.0

(0–3/16)

0.2–4.0

(1/64–3/16)

0.2–4.0

(1/64–3/16)

0.5–4.0

(1/32–3/16)

0.5–4.0

(1/32–3/16)

1.0–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

Presser

Foot

J a

Attach zigzag foot “J”.

J c

Sew along the edge of the fabric with the needle dropping off the edge at the right.

• For details, refer to “Replacing the presser foot” (page 42).

Select a stitch.

a Needle drop point

• For details, refer to “Selecting stitching” (page

49).

a Needle drop point

Sewing overcasting stitches using the optional 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.

Note z Thread the needle manually when using the side cutter, or only attach the side cutter after threading the needle using the needle threader.

Stitch Name Pattern

Side Cutter

Application

Sewing straight stitches while cutting the fabric

Sewing zigzag stitches while cutting the fabric

Preventing fraying in thin and medium weight fabrics while cutting the fabric

Preventing fraying in thick fabrics while cutting the fabric

Stitch Width

[mm (inch)]

Auto Manual

0.0

(0)

0.0–2.5

(0–3/32)

3.5

(1/8)

3.5–5.0

(1/8–3/16)

Stitch Length

[mm (inch)]

Auto Manual

2.5

(3/32)

0.2–5.0

(1/64–3/16)

1.4

(1/16)

0.0–4.0

(0–3/16)

Presser

Foot

3.5

(1/8)

3.5–5.0

(1/8–3/16)

2.0

(1/16)

1.0–4.0

( 1/16–3/16)

5.0

(3/16)

5.0

(3/16)

3.5–5.0

(1/8–3/16)

3.5–5.0

(1/8–3/16)

2.5

(3/32)

1.0–4.0

( 1/16–3/16)

2.5

(3/32)

1.0–4.0

( 1/16–3/16) c

Position the side cutter so that side cutter pin is aligned with the notch in the presser foot holder, and then slowly lower the presser foot lever.

3 b a

Remove the presser foot.

• For details, refer to “Replacing the presser foot” (page 42).

Hook the connecting fork of the side cutter onto the needle clamp screw.

a a a Notch in presser foot holder b Pin

X The side cutter is attached.

b a Connecting fork b Needle clamp screw

Overcasting Stitches 81

UTILITY STITCHES

— — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — d

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.

Position the fabric in the side cutter.

The cut in the fabric should be positioned over the guide plate of the side cutter.

Select a stitch.

a 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.

• For details, refer to “Selecting stitching” (page

49).

Make a cut of about 2 cm (3/4 inch) long in the fabric at the beginning of the stitching.

X A seam allowance is cut while the stitching is sewn.

• If the stitching is sewn in a straight line

63 the seam allowance will be about 5 mm

(3/16 inch).

1 a 2 cm (3/4 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.

Basic Stitching

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

Stitch Name Pattern

Basting stitch

Straight stitch

(left needle position)

Straight stitch

(center needle position)

Triple stretch stitch

Application

Temporarily securing

Stitch Width

[mm (inch)]

Auto Manual

0.0

(0)

0.0–7.0

(0–1/4)

Basic stitching and sewing gathers or pintucks (left baseline/ reverse stitching)

Basic stitching and sewing gathers or pintucks (left baseline/ reinforcement stitching)

Basic stitching and sewing gathers or pintucks (center baseline/reverse stitching)

0.0

(0)

0.0

(0)

3.5

(1/8)

0.0–7.0

(0–1/4)

0.0–7.0

(0–1/4)

0.0–7.0

(0–1/4)

Reinforcing seams and sewing stretch fabrics

0.0

(0)

0.0–7.0

(0–1/4)

Stitch Length

[mm (inch)]

Auto Manual

(3/4)

5–30

(3/16–1-3/16)

Presser

Foot

2.5

(3/32)

0.2–5.0

(1/64–3/16)

2.5

(3/32)

0.2–5.0

(1/64–3/16)

2.5

(3/32)

0.2–5.0

(1/64–3/16)

2.5

(3/32)

1.5–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

Basting

Sew basting with a stitch length between 5 mm

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

Attach zigzag foot “J”.

Basic stitching

Baste or pin together the fabric pieces.

Attach zigzag foot “J”.

• For details, refer to “Replacing the presser foot” (page 42).

Select stitch

• For details, refer to “Replacing the presser foot” (page 42).

Select a stitch.

• For details, refer to “Selecting stitching” (page

49).

Start sewing.

• For details, refer to “Starting to sew” (page

51).

• For details, refer to “Selecting stitching” (page

49).

Lower the needle into the fabric at the beginning of the stitching.

Basic Stitching 83

UTILITY STITCHES

— — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — e

Lower the presser foot lever, and then start sewing.

• For details, refer to “Starting to sew” (page

51).

• For details on sewing reverse/reinforcement stitches, refer to “Securing the stitching”

(page 53).

When sewing is finished, cut the thread.

• For details, refer to “Cutting the thread” (page

54).

■ Changing the needle position

The needle position used as the baseline is different for the straight stitch (left needle position) and the straight stitch (center needle position).

1 2 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 7.0 mm (1/4 inch)), the needle position will also change. By changing the stitch width and sewing with the right side of the presser foot aligned with the edge of the fabric, a seam allowance can be sewn with a fixed width.

0.0

2.0

5.5

7.0

3 4 5 6

2 a Stitch width setting 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 56).

Blind Hem Stitching

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

Stitch Name Pattern

Blind hem stitch

Application

Blind hem stitching on medium weight fabrics

Blind hem stitching on stretch fabrics

Stitch Width

[mm (inch)]

Auto Manual

(0)

3 ← – →3

(0)

3 ← – →3

Stitch Length

[mm (inch)]

Auto Manual

2.0

(1/16)

1.0–3.5

(1/16–1/8)

2.0

(1/16)

1.0–3.5

(1/16–1/8)

Presser

Foot

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.

Attach blind hem foot “R”.

3 1

• For details, refer to “Replacing the presser foot” (page 42).

Select a stitch.

a Wrong side of fabric b Basting stitching c Desired edge of hem d 5 mm (3/16 inch) b

Fold back the fabric along the basting, and then position the fabric with the wrong side facing up.

• For details, refer to “Selecting stitching” (page

49).

Position the fabric with the edge of the folded hem against the guide of the presser foot, and then lower the presser foot lever.

1 a Wrong side of fabric b Basting

1 a Wrong side of fabric b Fold of hem c Guide

Blind Hem Stitching 85

UTILITY STITCHES

— — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — f

Adjust the stitch width until the needle slightly catches the fold of the hem.

■ If the needle does not catch the hem fold

The needle is too far to the right.

Press to increase the stitch width so that the needle slightly catches the fold of the hem.

1 a Needle drop point

When you change the needle drop point, raise the needle, and then change the stitch width.

1 2 a Stitch width

■ If the needle catches too much of the hem fold

The needle is too far to the left.

Press 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

• For details, refer to “Adjusting the stitch width” (page 56).

Sew with the fold of the hem against the presser foot guide.

Remove the basting stitching.

1 2 a Wrong side of fabric b Right side of fabric

Buttonhole Stitching/Button Sewing

Buttonholes can be sewn and buttons can be sewn on. 10 stitches are available for sewing one-step buttonholes and one stitch for sewing on buttons.

Stitch Name Pattern

Buttonhole stitch

Buttonsewing stitch

Application

Horizontal buttonholes on thin and medium weight fabrics

Stitch Width

[mm (inch)]

Auto Manual

5.0

(3/16)

3.0–5.0

(1/8–3/16)

Stitch Length

[mm (inch)]

Auto Manual

0.4

(1/64)

0.2–1.0

(1/64–1/16)

Presser

Foot

Horizontal buttonholes on areas that are subject to strain

5.0

(3/16)

Horizontal buttonholes on thick fabrics

5.0

(3/16)

Buttonholes with bar tacks on both ends for stabilized fabrics

Buttonholes for stretch or knit fabrics

Buttonholes for stretch fabrics

5.0

(3/16)

6.0

(15/64)

3.0–5.0

(1/8–3/16)

3.0–5.0

(1/8–3/16)

3.0–5.0

(1/8–3/16)

3.0–6.0

(1/8–15/64)

0.4

(1/64)

0.4

(1/64)

0.4

(1/64)

1.0

(1/16)

6.0

(15/64)

3.0–6.0

(1/8–15/64)

1.5

(1/16)

0.2–1.0

(1/64–1/16)

0.2–1.0

(1/64–1/16)

0.2–1.0

(1/64–1/16)

0.5–2.0

(1/32–1/16)

1.0–3.0

(1/16–1/8)

Bound buttonholes

Keyhole buttonholes for thick or plush fabrics

Keyhole buttonholes for medium weight and thick fabrics

Horizontal buttonhole for thick or plush fabrics

Button sewing

5.0

(3/16)

7.0

(1/4)

7.0

(1/4)

7.0

(1/4)

3.5

(1/8)

0.0–6.0

(0–15/64)

3.0–7.0

(1/8–1/4)

3.0–7.0

(1/8–1/4)

2.0

(1/16)

0.5

(1/32)

0.5

(1/32)

3.0–7.0

(1/8–1/4)

2.5–4.5

(3/32–3/16)

0.5

(1/32)

–

0.2–4.0

(1/64–3/16)

0.3–1.0

(1/64–1/16)

0.3–1.0

(1/64–1/16)

0.3–1.0

(1/64–1/16)

–

Buttonhole Stitching/Button Sewing 87

UTILITY STITCHES

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

Buttonhole sewing

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

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

1 a Reinforcement stitching

The names of parts of buttonhole foot “A”, which is used for sewing buttonholes, are indicated below.

1 a

Use chalk to mark on the fabric the position and length of the buttonhole.

4 a Marks on fabric b

Pull out the button guide plate of buttonhole foot “A”, and then insert the button that will be put through the buttonhole.

A a Button guide plate b Presser foot scale c Pin d Marks on buttonhole foot e 5 mm (3/16 inch)

■ 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).) d

Select a stitch.

3 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.

2 a 10 mm (3/8 inch) b 15 mm (9/16 inch)

The size of the buttonhole is set.

Attach buttonhole foot “A”.

• For details, refer to “Replacing the presser foot” (page 42).

• For details, refer to “Selecting stitching” (page

49).

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 a Mark on fabric (front) 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.

3 a a Do not reduce the gap.

Buttonhole Stitching/Button Sewing 89

UTILITY STITCHES

— — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — f

Pull down the buttonhole lever as far as possible.

Insert a pin along the inside of one bar tack at the end of the buttonhole stitching to prevent the stitching from being cut.

1 a a Buttonhole lever

The buttonhole lever is positioned behind the bracket on the buttonhole foot.

1 a Pin k

Use the seam ripper to cut towards the pin and open the buttonhole.

2 a Buttonhole lever b Bracket g

Gently hold the end of the upper thread in your left hand, and then start sewing.

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.

Once sewing is completed, the machine automatically sews reinforcement stitches, then stops.

Raise the presser foot lever, remove the fabric, and then cut the thread.

Raise the buttonhole lever to its original position.

1 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

● 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.

■ Changing the density of the stitching

Adjust the stitch length.

■ 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.

• For details, refer to “Adjusting the stitch length” (page 57).

• 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.

It fits into the grooves, and then loosely tie it.

• For details, refer to “Adjusting the stitch width” (page 56).

Memo z Before sewing buttonholes, check the stitch length and width by sewing a trial buttonhole on a scrap piece of fabric.

Attach buttonhole foot “A”.

• For details, refer to “Replacing the presser foot” (page 42).

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.

Buttonhole Stitching/Button Sewing 91

UTILITY STITCHES

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

Button sewing

Select stitch

Buttons can be sewn on with the sewing machine.

Buttons with two or with four holes can be attached.

Measure the distance between the holes in the button to 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 left as seen from the rear of the machine).

• For details, refer to “Selecting stitching” (page

49).

• Since the end of the thread will be tied off later, do not set the sewing machine for programmed-thread cutting.

Adjust the stitch width so that it is the same as the distance between the holes in the button.

Place the button in the position where it will be sewn, and lower the presser foot lever. a a Drop feed lever (as seen from the rear of the machine)

The feed dogs are lowered.

Attach button-sewing foot “M”.

• For details, refer to “Replacing the presser foot” (page 42).

a a Button

X The button is held in place.

• 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.

Turn the handwheel toward you

(counterclockwise) to check that the needle correctly goes into the two holes of the button.

If it seems as if the needle will hit the button, remeasure the distance between the holes in the button. Adjust the stitch width to the distance between the button holes.

When you are finished attaching the button, slide the drop feed lever to (to the right as seen from the rear of the machine) to raise the feed dogs.

Memo z The feed dog position switch is normally set to the right side (as seen from the rear of machine). z The feed dogs come up when you start sewing again.

CAUTION

● When sewing, be sure that the needle does not touch the button, otherwise the needle may bend or break.

Start sewing.

Set the sewing speed controller to the left (so that the speed will be slow).

■ 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.

X The sewing machine automatically stops after sewing reinforcement stitches.

• Do not press (“Thread Cutter” button).

• If additional strength is needed to secure the button, perform the button-sewing operation twice.

Use scissors to cut the upper thread and the bobbin thread at the beginning of the stitching.

Pull the upper thread at the end of the stitching to the wrong side of the fabric, and then tie it with the bobbin thread.

a Shank lever b

After sewing is finished, cut the upper thread with plenty of excess, wind it around the thread between the button and the fabric, and then tie it to the upper thread at the beginning of the stitching.

Tie together the ends of the bobbin thread at the end and at the beginning of the stitching on the wrong side of the fabric.

Cut off any excess thread.

Buttonhole Stitching/Button Sewing 93

UTILITY STITCHES

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

Zipper Insertion

A zipper can be sewn in place.

Stitch Name Pattern Application

Stitch Width

[mm (inch)]

Auto Manual

Stitch Length

[mm (inch)]

Auto Manual

Presser

Foot

Straight stitch

(center needle position)

Attaching zippers

Sewing concealed seams and pintucks

3.5

(1/8)

0.0–7.0

(0–1/4)

2.5

(3/32)

0.2–5.0

(1/64–3/16)

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

Using a basting stitch, continue sewing to the edge of the fabric.

Stitching is sewn on both pieces of fabric butted against each other.

2 4

1 a Basting stitching b Reverse stitches c Wrong side of fabric d End of zipper opening d

Press open the seam allowance from the wrong side of the fabric.

3 a Right side of fabric b Stitching c End of zipper opening a

Attach zigzag foot “J”.

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

83).

1 a Wrong side of fabric

Align the seam with the center of the zipper, and then baste the zipper in place.

Select stitch

1 a Wrong side of fabric b Basting stiching c Zipper f

Remove about 5 cm (2 inches) from the end of the basting on the outside.

• For details, refer to “Selecting stitching” (page

49).

CAUTION

● When using zipper foot “I”, be sure to select the straight stitch (center needle position), and slowly turn the handwheel toward you (counterclockwise) to check that the needle does not touch the presser foot. If a different stitch is selected or the needle hits the presser foot, the needle may bend or break.

Topstitch around the zipper.

a Wrong side of fabric b Zipper basting c Outside basting d 5 cm (2 inches) g

Attach the presser foot holder to the right pin of zipper foot “I”.

3 a Pin on the right side b Needle drop point

• For details, refer to “Replacing the presser foot” (page 42).

a Stitching b Right side of fabric c Basting stitching d End of zipper opening

CAUTION

● When sewing, be sure that the needle does not touch the zipper, otherwise the needle may bend or break.

Remove the basting stitching.

Zipper Insertion 95

UTILITY STITCHES

— — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — d

Press open the seam allowance from the wrong side of the fabric.

Inserting a side zipper

Stitching is visible on only one piece of fabric. Use this type of zipper application for side openings and back openings.

2 a Wrong side of fabric e

Press the seam allowance so that the right side

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

3 mm (1/8 inch).

3 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”.

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

83).

Using a basting stitch, continue sewing to the edge of the fabric.

2 a Wrong side of fabric b 3 mm (1/8 inch) f

Align the zipper teeth with the pressed edge of the fabric having the extra 3 mm (1/8 inch), and then baste or pin the zipper in place.

2 a Basting stitching b Reverse stitches c Wrong side of fabric d End of zipper opening

4 a Zipper teeth b Basting stitching g

Attach the presser foot holder to the right pin of zipper foot “I”.

If the stitching will be sewn on the right side, attach the presser foot holder to the left pin of the zipper foot.

2 a Pin on the right side b Needle drop point

• For details, refer to “Replacing the presser foot” (page 42).

Select stitch

When you are about 5 cm (2 inches) from the end of the zipper, stop the sewing machine with the needle lowered (in the fabric), raise the presser foot lever.

Open the zipper and continue sewing.

• For details, refer to “Selecting stitching” (page

49).

CAUTION

Sew the zipper to the piece of fabric with the extra 3 mm (1/8 inch), starting from the base of the zipper.

Close the zipper, turn over the fabric, and then baste the other side of the zipper to the fabric.

CAUTION

● When sewing, be sure that the needle does not touch the zipper, otherwise the needle may bend or break.

a Basting stitching m

Attach the presser foot holder to the other pin of zipper foot “I”.

If the presser foot holder was attached to the right pin in step g

, change it to the left pin.

2 a Pin on the left side b Needle drop point

Zipper Insertion 97

UTILITY STITCHES

— — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — n

Topstitch around the zipper.

Sew reverse stitches at the end of the zipper opening and align the zipper teeth with the side of the presser foot.

5 a Right side of fabric b End of zipper opening c Reverse stitches d Beginning of stitching e Basting stitching

CAUTION

● When sewing, be sure that the needle does not touch the zipper, otherwise the needle may bend or break.

When you are about 5 cm (2 inches) 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.

Remove the basting stitching.

Zipper/piping Insertion

A zipper and piping can be sewn in place.

Stitch Name Pattern

Straight stitch

(left needle position)

Application

Attaching zippers Sewing concealed seams and piping

Stitch Width

[mm (inch)]

Auto Manual

0.0

(0)

0.0–7.0

(0–1/4)

Stitch Length

[mm (inch)]

Auto Manual

2.5

(3/32)

0.2–5.0

(1/64–3/16)

Presser

Foot

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

Loosen the positioning screw on the back of the presser foot.

Refer to step a

– e

of “Inserting a centered zipper” (page 94).

Remove the presser foot and presser foot holder (page 44) to attach the screw-on adjustable zipper/piping foot.

1 a Positioning screw e

Slide the presser foot over either the left or right feed dog.

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

Left sewing position Right sewing position f

Change the needle position so that the needle does not touch the presser foot.

For details, refer to “Adjusting the stitch width”

(page 56).

1 a Needle drop point

Zipper/piping Insertion 99

UTILITY STITCHES

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

CAUTION

● After adjusting the needle position, slowly turn the handwheel toward you and check the needle does not touch

(counterclockwise) the presser foot. If the needle hits the presser foot, the needle may bend or break.

Securely tighten the positioning screw with a screwdriver.

Inserting a piping

Place the piping between two fabric pieces turned inside out, as shown below.

2 a Fabric b Piping c Fabric b

Refer to the steps of attaching the adjustable zipper/piping foot on the previous page. c

Sew along the piping.

a Positioning screw h

Topstitch around the zipper.

3 d

After sewing, turn fabric pieces.

4 a Stitching b Right side of fabric c Basting stitching d End of zipper opening

CAUTION

● When sewing, be sure that the needle does not touch the zipper, otherwise the needle may bend or break.

Remove the basting stitching.

100

Sewing Stretch Fabrics and Elastic Tape

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

Stitch Name Pattern

Stretch stitch

2-point zigzag stitch

3-point zigzag stitch

Elasticattaching stitch

Application

Stretch fabrics

Attaching elastic

Attaching elastic to stretch fabrics

Stitch Width

[mm (inch)]

Auto Manual

1.0

(1/16)

1.0–3.0

(1/16–1/8)

5.0

(3/16)

5.0

(3/16)

1.5–7.0

(1/16–1/4)

1.5–7.0

(1/16–1/4)

4.0

(3/16)

0.0–7.0

(0–1/4)

Stitch Length

[mm (inch)]

Auto Manual

2.5

(3/32)

1.0–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

Presser

Foot

1.0

(1/16)

0.2–4.0

(1/64–3/16)

1.0

(1/16)

0.2–4.0

(1/64–3/16)

1.0

(1/16)

0.2–4.0

(1/64–3/16)

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 42).

Select stitch

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.

• For details, refer to “Selecting stitching” (page

49).

Sew the fabric without stretching it.

2 a Elastic tape b Pin b

Attach zigzag foot “J”.

• For details, refer to “Replacing the presser foot” (page 42).

Sewing Stretch Fabrics and Elastic Tape 101

UTILITY STITCHES

— — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — c

Select a stitch.

Example: 2-point zigzag stitch

Example: Elastic-attaching stitch

• For details, refer to “Selecting stitching” (page

49).

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.

102

Appliqué, Patchwork and Quilt Stitching

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

Stitch Name Pattern

Zigzag stitch

Appliqué stitch

Piecing straight stitch

Joining stitch

Mock hand quilting stitch

Quilting stippling

Application

Attaching appliqués (center baseline/reverse stitching)

Appliqué quilting, free-motion quilting, satin stitching

Attaching appliqués

Stitch Width

[mm (inch)]

Auto Manual

3.5

(1/8)

0.0–7.0

(0–1/4)

3.5

(1/8)

0.0–7.0

(0–1/4)

3.5

(1/8)

2.5–7.0

(3/32–1/4)

Stitch Length

[mm (inch)]

Auto Manual

1.4

(1/16)

0.0–4.0

(0–3/16)

1.4

(1/16)

0.0–4.0

(0–3/16)

2.5

(3/32)

1.6–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

Presser

Foot

Attaching appliqués and binding

1.5

(1/16)

Piecing straight stitching (with a seam allowance of 6.5 mm (1/4 inch) from the right edge of the presser foot)

Piecing straight stitching (with a seam allowance of 6.5 mm (1/4 inch) from the left edge of the presser foot)

5.5

(7/32)

1.5

(1/16)

4.0

(3/16)

0.5–5.0

(1/32–3/16)

1.8

(1/16)

1.0–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

0.0–7.0

(0–1/4)

0.0–7.0

(0–1/4)

0.0–7.0

(0–1/4)

2.0

(1/16)

2.0

(1/16)

1.2

(1/16)

0.2–5.0

(1/64–3/16)

0.2–5.0

(1/64–3/16)

0.2–4.0

(1/64–3/16)

Patchwork 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)

1.2

(1/16)

0.2–4.0

(1/64–3/16)

5.0

(3/16)

Straight stitch quilting that looks hand quilting

Stippling

0.0

(0)

7.0

(1/4)

0.0–7.0

(0–1/4)

0.0–7.0

(0–1/4)

1.0–7.0

(1/16–1/4)

2.5

(3/32)

1.6

(1/16)

1.0–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

1.0–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

Memo z Patterns showing a “Q” on the LCD are for quilting and those showing a “P” are for piecing.

Appliqué, Patchwork and Quilt Stitching 103

UTILITY STITCHES

— — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — e

Select a stitch.

Appliqué stitching

For best results, use the included open toe foot.

Cut out the appliqué, leaving a seam allowance of between 3 and 5 mm (1/8 and

3/16 inch).

1 a Seam allowance b

Place a pattern made of thick paper or stabilizer on the back of the appliqué, and then fold over the seam allowance using an iron.

• For details, refer to “Selecting stitching” (page

49).

Turn the handwheel toward you

(counterclockwise), and then begin sewing around the edge of the appliqué, making sure that the needle drops just outside of the appliqué.

Turn the fabric over, and then baste or fuse it onto the fabric that it will be attached to.

1 a Basting stitching d

Attach the open toe foot.

104

• For details, refer to “Replacing the presser foot” (page 42).

When sewing around corners, stop the machine with the needle in the fabric just outside of the appliqué, raise the presser foot lever, and then turn the fabric as needed to change the sewing direction.

Patchwork (crazy quilt) stitching

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

7 mm (1/4 inch) seam allowance.

Sew a piecing straight stitch 7 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 42).

Select stitch

• For details, refer to “Selecting stitching” (page

49).

• The piecing straight stitch shows a “P” on the

LCD.

Sew with the side of the presser foot aligned with the edge of the fabric.

■ For a seam allowance on the right side

Align the right side of the presser foot with the edge of the fabric, and sew using stitch

1 a 7 mm (1/4 inch)

Appliqué, Patchwork and Quilt Stitching 105

UTILITY STITCHES

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

■ 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

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 7 mm (1/4 inch)

Memo z To change the width of the seam allowance

(needle position), adjust the stitch width. For details, refer to “Adjusting the stitch width”

(page 56).

■ Using the optional 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.

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

1 e

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.

3 a 6.4mm (1/4 inch) b End of stitching c Mark on 1/4 inch quilting foot

• For details, refer to “Replacing the presser foot” (page 42).

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.

2 a Mark on 1/4 inch quilting foot b Beginning of stitching

106

Quilting

Sandwiching batting between the top and bottom layers of fabric is called “quilting”. Quilts can easily be sewn using the optional walking foot and the optional quilting guide.

Baste the fabric to be quilted.

Remove the presser foot and the presser foot holder.

• For details, refer to “Removing and attaching the presser foot holder” (page 44).

Hook the connecting fork of the walking foot onto the 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

X The walking foot is attached.

a a Connecting fork b Needle clamp screw b a

CAUTION

● Be sure to securely tighten the screws with the screwdriver, otherwise the needle may touch the presser foot, causing it to bend or break.

● Before starting to sew, slowly turn the handwheel toward you

(counterclockwise) and check that the needle does not touch the presser foot. If the needle hits the presser foot, the needle may bend or break.

Select a stitch.

• For details, refer to “Selecting stitching” (page

49).

Place one hand on each side of the presser foot, and hold fabric taut while sewing.

Note z When sewing with the walking foot, sew at a speed between slow and medium.

z When quilting, use a 90/14 home sewing machine needle.

Appliqué, Patchwork and Quilt Stitching 107

UTILITY STITCHES

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

■ Using the optional quilting guide

Use the quilting guide to sew parallel stitches that are equally spaced.

Free-motion quilting

With free-motion quilting, lower the feed dogs (using the drop feed lever) so that the fabric can be moved freely in any direction.

When free-motion quilting, use the following instructions with the optional quilting foot.

Insert the stem of the quilting guide into the hole at the rear of the walking foot or presser foot holder.

Walking foot

Presser foot holder b

Adjust the stem of the quilting guide so that the guide aligns with the seam that has already been sewn.

Remove the presser foot and the presser foot holder.

• Refer to “Removing and attaching the presser foot holder” (page 44).

Secure the quilting foot with the presser foot holder screw.

The pin on the quilting foot should be positioned over the needle clamp screw.

2 3 a Pin on quilting foot b Presser foot holder screw c Needle clamp screw c

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.

Note z The optional quilting guide is available through brother dealer.

1 a Presser foot holder screw

108

CAUTION

● Be sure to securely tighten the screws with the screwdriver, otherwise the needle may touch the presser foot, causing it to bend or break.

Slide the drop feed lever, located at the rear of the machine on the base, to (to the left as seen from the rear of the machine).

Satin stitching using the sewing speed controller

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

51).

Attach zigzag foot “J”.

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

The feed dogs are lowered.

Turn on the sewing machine, and then select a stitch.

• For details, refer to “Selecting stitching” (page

49).

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.

• For details, refer to “Replacing the presser foot” (page 42).

Turn on the sewing machine, and then press

(Settings key) on the operation panel.

3 a Pattern g

After sewing is finished, slide the drop feed lever to (to the right as seen from the rear of the machine) to raise the feed dogs.

• Normally, the drop feed lever is positioned at the right.

X The settings screen appears.

Press ON for stitch width control setting.

X The machine is now set so that the stitch width can be controlled with the sewing speed controller.

If the stitch width control setting is set to

“ON”, for stitch width will change to sewing speed controller icon .

Appliqué, Patchwork and Quilt Stitching 109

UTILITY STITCHES

— — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — e

Press (Back key).

The initial screen appears again.

Select stitch

• For details, refer to “Selecting stitching” (page

49).

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.

Narrower 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).

110

Reinforcement Stitching

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

Stitch Name Pattern

Triple stretch stitch

Bar tack stitch

Darning stitch

Application

Reinforcing the seams of sleeves and inseams

Stitch Width

[mm (inch)]

Auto Manual

0.0

(0)

Reinforcing the ends of openings, such as the corners of pockets

2.0

(1/16)

Darning medium weight fabrics

7.0

(1/4)

0.0–7.0

(0–1/4)

1.0–3.0

(1/16–1/8)

2.5–7.0

(3/32–1/4)

Darning thick fabrics

7.0

(1/4)

2.5–7.0

(3/32–1/4)

Stitch Length

[mm (inch)]

Auto Manual

2.5

(3/32)

1.5–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

Presser

Foot

0.4

(1/64)

0.3–1.0

(1/64–1/16)

2.0

(1/16)

2.0

(1/16)

0.4–2.5

(1/64–3/32)

0.4–2.5

(1/64–3/32)

Triple stretch stitching

Use triple stretch stitching to reinforce sleeve holes and inseams.

Attach zigzag foot “J”.

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.

• For details, refer to “Replacing the presser foot” (page 42).

Select stitch

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).)

• For details, refer to “Selecting stitching” (page

49).

Start sewing.

• For details, refer to “Starting to sew” (page

51).

3 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 inches) can be sewn.

Reinforcement Stitching 111

UTILITY STITCHES

— — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — b

Attach buttonhole foot “A”.

• For details, refer to “Replacing the presser foot” (page 42).

Select stitch

Pull down the buttonhole lever as far as possible.

• For details, refer to “Selecting stitching” (page

49).

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 a Buttonhole lever

The buttonhole lever is positioned behind the bracket on the buttonhole foot.

2 a Buttonhole lever b Bracket f

Gently hold the end of the upper thread in your left hand, and then start sewing.

1 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.

X Once sewing is completed, the machine automatically sews reinforcement stitches, then stops.

Raise the presser foot lever, remove the fabric, and then cut the threads.

Raise the buttonhole lever to its original position.

a Do not reduce the gap.

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 57).

112

Darning

Fabric that has been torn can be darned.

Darning is sewn as shown below.

1 a Reinforcement stitching a

Determine the desired length of the darning.

Set the button guide plate on buttonhole foot

“A” to the desired length. (The distance between the markings on the presser foot scale is 5 mm (3/16 inch).)

1 c

Select stitch

4 a Presser foot scale b Length of darning c 5 mm (3/16 inch) d 7 mm (1/4 inch) b

Attach buttonhole foot “A”.

• For details, refer to “Replacing the presser foot” (page 42).

• For details, refer to “Selecting stitching” (page

49).

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.

2 a Tear b 2 mm (1/16 inch)

Reinforcement Stitching 113

UTILITY STITCHES

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

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.

Raise the presser foot lever, remove the fabric, and then cut the threads.

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 57).

a a Do not reduce the gap.

Pull down the buttonhole lever as far as possible.

a a Buttonhole lever

The buttonhole lever is positioned behind the bracket on the buttonhole foot.

1 a Buttonhole lever b Bracket

2 f

Gently hold the end of the upper thread in your left hand, and then start sewing.

114

X Once sewing is completed, the machine automatically sews reinforcement stitches, then stops.

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).

Stitch Name Pattern

Eyelet stitch

Application

Sewing eyelets, for example, on belts

Stitch Width

[mm (inch)]

Auto Manual

7.0

(1/4)

7.0, 6.0 or

5.0

(1/4, 15/64 or 3/16)

Stitch Length

[mm (inch)]

Auto Manual

7.0

(1/4)

7.0, 6.0 or

5.0

(1/4, 15/64 or 3/16)

Presser

Foot

N a

Attach monogramming foot “N”.

Lower the needle into the fabric at the beginning of the stitching, and then lower the presser foot lever.

• For details, refer to “Replacing the presser foot” (page 42).

Select stitch

• For details, refer to “Selecting stitching” (page

49).

Adjust either the stitch width or the stitch length to select the desired eyelet size.

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.

1 2 3 a 7mm b 6mm c 5mm

• For details, refer to “Adjusting the stitch width” (page 56) and “Adjusting the stitch length” (page 57).

• 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 light weight thread is used, the stitching may be sparse. If this occurs, sew the eyelet twice before removing the fabric, one on top of the other.

Eyelet Stitching 115

UTILITY STITCHES

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

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.

Stitch Name Pattern

Horizontal straight stitch

Horizontal zigzag stitch

Application

Attaching appliqués to sleeves

(straight stitch sewn to the left)

Attaching appliqués to sleeves

(straight stitch sewn to the right)

Attaching appliqués to sleeves

(zigzag stitch sewn to the left)

Attaching appliqués to sleeves

(zigzag stitch sewn to the right)

Stitch Width

[mm (inch)]

–

Stitch Length

[mm (inch)]

–

Presser

Foot

The illustration below shows the sewing order for the following explanation.

3 1

2 d

Lower the needle into the fabric at the beginning of the stitching, and then start sewing.

Lower the needle at the upper-right corner.

Remove the flat bed attachment.

• For details, refer to “Free-arm sewing” (page

45).

Attach monogramming foot “N”.

• For details, refer to “Replacing the Presser

Foot” (page 42).

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.

Select stitch

• For details, refer to “Selecting stitching” (page

49).

X The fabric is fed to the right.

After you have sewn to the corner, stop the sewing machine, and then select stitch

116

— — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — h button).

button) pressed until the stitching reaches the upper-left corner.

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

1 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.

Horizontal Stitching 117

UTILITY STITCHES

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

Decorative Stitching

The utility stitches contain the following decorative stitches.

Stitch Name Pattern

Fagoting stitch

Joining stitch

Shell tuck stitch

Smocking stitch

Application

Sewing two pieces of fabric together across an open seam

Decorative bridging stitches

5.0

(3/16)

5.0

(3/16)

Shell tuck stitching on collars and curves

4.0

(3/16)

5.0

(3/16)

Smocking fabrics to add texture and elasticity

5.0

(3/16)

5.0

(3/16)

Stitch Width

[mm (inch)]

Auto Manual

5.0

(3/16)

0.0–7.0

(0–1/4)

5.0

(3/16)

4.0

(3/16)

2.5–7.0

(3/25–1/4)

0.0–7.0

(0–1/4)

Stitch Length

[mm (inch)]

Auto Manual

2.5

(3/32)

1.0–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

Presser

Foot

2.5

(3/32)

1.0–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

1.2

(1/16)

0.2–4.0

(1/64–3/16)

2.5–7.0

(3/32–1/4)

0.0–7.0

(0–1/4)

0.0–7.0

(0–1/4)

0.0–7.0

(0–1/4)

0.0–7.0

(0–1/4)

2.5–7.0

(3/32–1/4)

2.5

(3/32)

1.2

(1/16)

2.5

(3/32)

1.6

(1/16)

2.5

(3/32)

2.5

(3/32)

1.0–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

0.2–4.0

(1/64–3/16)

0.2–4.0

(1/64–3/16)

1.0–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

1.0–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

1.0–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

Scallop stitch

Hemstitching

Satin scallop stitching

Lace sewing, decorative hemming, heirloom stitching, etc.

5.0

(3/16)

Decorative hemming and heirloom stitching, etc. on thin, medium weight and plain weave fabrics

5.0

(3/16)

5.0

(3/16)

5.0

(3/16)

Decorative hemming, ribbon threading, heirloom stitching, etc.

5.0

(3/16)

5.0

(3/16)

2.5–7.0

(3/32–1/4)

0.5

(1/32)

0.1–1.0

(1/64–1/16)

3.5

(1/8)

6.0

(15/64)

1.5–7.0

(1/16–1/4)

1.5–7.0

(1/16–1/4)

2.5

(3/32)

1.6–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

3.0

(1/8)

1.5–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

1.5–7.0

(1/16–1/4)

3.5

(1/8)

1.5–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

1.5–7.0

(1/16–1/4)

1.5–7.0

(1/16–1/4)

1.5–7.0

(1/16–1/4)

1.5–7.0

(1/16–1/4)

4.0

(3/16)

2.5

(3/32)

2.0

(1/16)

3.0

(1/8)

1.5–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

1.5–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

1.5–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

1.5–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

118

Stitch Name Pattern

Hemstitching

Application

Heirloom stitching, etc.

Ladder stitch

Rick-rack stitch

Decorative stitch

Serpentine stitch

Decorative stitching

4.0

(3/16)

4.0

(3/16)

5.5

(7/32)

5.0

(3/16)

Stitch Width

[mm (inch)]

Auto Manual

6.0

(15/64)

5.0

(3/16)

1.5–7.0

(1/16–1/4)

1.5–7.0

(1/16–1/4)

0.0–7.0

(0–1/4)

0.0–7.0

(0–1/4)

0.0–7.0

(0–1/4)

1.5–7.0

(1/16–1/4)

Stitch Length

[mm (inch)]

Auto Manual

1.6

(1/16)

1.0–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

Presser

Foot

1.6

(1/16)

1.0–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

3.0

(1/8)

2.5

(3/32)

1.6

(1/16)

1.0

(1/16)

2.0–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

1.0–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

1.0–4.0

(1/16–3/16)

0.2–4.0

(1/64–3/16)

N d

Select stitch

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.

If you draw a line down the middle of the thin paper or water-soluble stabilizer, sewing is easier.

• For details, refer to “Selecting stitching” (page

49).

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

• For details, refer to “Adjusting the stitch width” (page 56).

Sew with the center of the presser foot aligned along the center of the two pieces of fabric.

2 a Thin paper or water soluble stabilizer b Basting stitching c 4 mm (3/16 inch) c

Attach zigzag foot “J”.

• For details, refer to “Replacing the presser foot” (page 42).

After sewing is finished, remove the paper.

Decorative Stitching 119

UTILITY STITCHES

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

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 projects.

Attach monogramming foot “N”.

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”.

J b

• For details, refer to “Replacing the presser foot” (page 42).

Select stitch

• For details, refer to “Selecting stitching” (page

49).

Stitch along the edge of the fabric, making sure not to sew directly on the edge of the fabric.

• For details, refer to “Replacing the presser foot” (page 42).

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 57) and “Adjusting the thread tension” (page 57).

• Pull up the bobbin thread. For details, refer to

“Pulling up the bobbin thread” (page 37).

Sew parallel stitching at intervals of 1 cm

(3/8 inch).

• For better results, apply spray starch the fabric and press with a hot iron before it is sewn.

Trim along the stitches.

a 1 cm (3/8 inch)

• Do not use reverse/reinforcement stitching or thread cutting.

• At the end of the stitching, the thread is pulled out about 5 cm (2 inches). d

Pull the bobbin threads to create gathers.

Smooth the gathers by ironing them.

120

• Be careful not to cut the stitches.

Select stitch

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.

• For details, refer to “Selecting stitching” (page

49).

Stitch between the straight stitches.

Attach zigzag foot “J”.

J g

Pull out the threads for the straight stitches.

• For details, refer to “Replacing the presser foot” (page 42).

Select stitch

20 tension.

, and then increase the thread

• For details, refer to “Selecting stitching” (page

49) and “Adjusting the thread tension” (page

57).

Decorative Stitching 121

UTILITY STITCHES

— — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — d

Sew while making sure that the needle drops slightly off the edge of the fabric.

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”.

J a Needle drop point e

Unfold the fabric, and then iron the tucks down to one side.

• For details, refer to “Replacing the presser foot” (page 42).

Sew together the right sides of the two pieces of fabric, and then open up the seam allowances.

1 c a Wrong side of fabric

3 b 7 mm (1/4 inch) seam allowance c Straight stitch

Select stitch

• For details, refer to “Selecting stitching” (page

49).

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 a Right side of fabric

122

Heirloom stitching

When sewing with the wing needle, the needle holes are enlarged, creating a lace-like decorative stitch.

This is used to decorate hems and tablecloths on thin or medium weight fabrics in addition to plain weave fabrics.

Select a stitch.

The stitches that can be used are

Note z If the thread becomes tangled, use stabilizer material.

Install the wing needle.

• Use a 130/705H 100/16 wing needle.

• For details on installing a needle, refer to

“Replacing the needle” (page 40).

• 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.

For details, refer to “Threading the needle manually (without using the needle threader)” (page 33).

Attach monogramming foot “N”.

• For details, refer to “Selecting stitching” (page

49).

• When sewing with the wing needle, select a stitch width of 6.0 mm (15/64 inch) or less.

Start sewing.

• For details, refer to “Replacing the presser foot” (page 42).

CAUTION

● When sewing with the wing needle, select a stitch width of 6.0 mm (15/64 inch) or less, otherwise the needle may bend or break.

● After adjusting the stitch width, slowly turn the handwheel toward you

(counterclockwise) and check that the needle does not touch the presser foot. If the needle hits the presser foot, the needle may bend or break.

Decorative Stitching 123

UTILITY STITCHES

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

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) e

Press on the LCD.

X The pattern displayed at the top of the screen is mirrored.

Pull out several threads from the fabric.

Sew along the other edge of the frayed section so that it looks like the previous stitching.

N g

Press , and set the horizontal mirror image key back to OFF.

Attach monogramming foot “N”.

• For details, refer to “Replacing the presser foot” (page 42).

Select stitch

• For details, refer to “Selecting stitching” (page

49).

With the right side of the fabric facing up, sew along the right edge of the frayed section.

124

■ Drawnwork (Example 2) a

Pull out several threads from two sections of the fabric, separated by an unfrayed section of about 4 mm (3/16 inch).

1 a 4 mm (3/16 inch) b

Attach monogramming foot “N”.

• For details, refer to “Replacing the presser foot” (page 42).

Select stitch

• For details, refer to “Selecting stitching” (page

49).

Sew along the center of the unfrayed section.

Decorative Stitching 125

UTILITY STITCHES

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

Sewing the Various Built-in Decorative Patterns

You can sew decorative stitches, satin stitches, cross stitches, decorative satin stitches, combined utility stitches and 3 types of character stitches. 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 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, medium weight or stretch fabrics, use the ball point needle. When sewing thick fabrics, use a 90/14 home sewing machine needle. In addition, #50 to #60 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 42).

Select a stitch.

• For details, refer to steps a

through e of

“Selecting stitching” (page 75).

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

59).

When you are finished sewing, use scissors to trim off any excess threads at the beginning of the stitching and between the patterns.

Memo z For details on adjusting the stitch width and length, refer to “Adjusting the stitch width”

(page 56) and “Adjusting the stitch length”

(page 57).

126

Changing the pattern size

The size of character stitches in the Gothic font and outline style, decorative stitches, and decorative satin stitches can be switched between large and small.

However, the size of other patterns cannot be changed.

Select a stitch.

• For details on selecting a stitch, refer to

“Selecting stitching” (page 75).

Press until the desired size is selected.

Changing the stitch density

If a decorative satin stitch has been selected, the stitch density can be changed.

Press (Utility stitch key) on the operation panel, and select (Decorative satin stitch).

3 b

Select a decorative satin stitch pattern.

Repeat steps a

and b

Press selected.

until the desired stitch density is

Select for sparse stitching, or select for compact stitching.

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.

CAUTION

● If the stitching density is too compacted, depending on the needle, the stitches may be bunched together, causing the needle to break.

Sewing the Various Built-in Decorative Patterns 127

UTILITY STITCHES

— — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — c

Press .

Changing the length for satin stitches

The length for one satin stitch can be changed in five gradations.

Press (Utility stitch key) on the operation panel, and select (Satin stitch).

It turns to and the pattern is longer.

Select a satin stitch pattern.

Each time you press it the number changes.

You can select from - .

128

Shifting patterns

Satin stitches can be shifted to the left or right by half the width of the pattern, allowing you to create a stepshaped pattern. This is called a “step pattern”. Select

once to move the stitch pattern to the left by half the width of the stitch pattern. Select once to move the stitch pattern to the right by half the width of the stitch pattern. As an example, the procedure for creating the following pattern is described below.

Press .

Press (Utility stitch key) on the operation panel, and select (Satin stitch).

The next pattern selected is moved half a width to the right.

Select a satin stitch pattern. d

Select the same pattern.

Sewing the Various Built-in Decorative Patterns 129

UTILITY STITCHES

— — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — e

Press .

Combining patterns

You can sew with combinations of stitches from character stitches, decorative stitches, satin stitches, combined utility stitches, decorative satin stitches and cross stitches.

Touch (Utility stitch key) on the operation panel, and select the stitch type.

X The next pattern selected is moved half a width to the left.

Select the first pattern.

X The first pattern is selected and appears in on the screen.

Specify that the patterns will be sewn repeatedly.

• When the sewing is started, the selected pattern is sewn repeatedly until the sewing machine is stopped.

• For details, refer to “Repeating patterns”

(page 131).

■ Examples of step patterns

130

— — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — c

Select the next pattern.

X The combined pattern appears on the screen.

■ Repeating patterns

When multiple stitches are combined, the sewing machine stops when the pattern displayed on the screen has been completed. Use the following operations to sew a combined pattern repeatedly. a

After the patterns have been combined, press

If pressed again, it turns to (single sewing).

• To remove a selected pattern, press on the screen. The pattern that was selected last is removed.

• To combine patterns from different types, press (Back key), and after selecting the type, select the next pattern. d

After all of the desired patterns are selected, start sewing.

X turns to , and you can now sew the specified pattern repeatedly.

1 2

The order that the patterns appear on the screen is the order that they will be sewn.

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.

Memo z Up to 70 patterns can 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 “Repeating patterns”.

z The combined pattern can be saved for later use. For details, refer to “Saving patterns”

(page 133).

Sewing the Various Built-in Decorative Patterns 131

UTILITY STITCHES

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

■ Mirroring a pattern image a

After a single pattern has been selected, press

to mirror the pattern image horizontally.

■ Checking the pattern

When the specified pattern is not displayed on the screen, check the pattern using the following steps. a

Press . b

X The screen for checking the pattern is displayed.

Press , and confirm the pattern. c

Press (Back key).

The initial screen appears again.

Memo z The combined pattern can be saved for later use. For details, refer to “Saving patterns”

(page 133).

132

■ Retrieving a pattern

Saving patterns

Press .

Retrieve the saved pattern.

Combined patterns can be saved for later use. Since saved patterns are not lost after the sewing machine is turned off, they can be retrieved at any time. Up to 10 patterns can be saved.

■ Saving a pattern a

Create the combined pattern that you wish to save.

• For details, refer to “Combining patterns”

(page 130).

Press panel.

(Memory key) on the operation

X The screen for selecting a pocket appears.

Select the pocket where the combined pattern you wish to retrieve is stored.

indicates pockets where patterns are already saved.

X “Saving...” appears while the pattern is being saved. After the pattern is saved, the initial screen appears again.

• Do not turn off the sewing machine while the pattern is being saved, otherwise the pattern data may be lost.

X The selected pocket is shown in reverse highlighting, and the saved pattern is displayed.

Check the contents, and then press

Press to check a pattern that is not displayed completely.

The saved pattern is retrieved.

X The pattern selection screen appears, and you can sew the pattern you have retrieved.

Sewing the Various Built-in Decorative Patterns 133

UTILITY STITCHES

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■ Deleting a saved pattern

Saved pattern in the pockets can be deleted.

Realigning the pattern

Press .

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”.

Select the pocket where the pattern you wish to delete is stored.

indicates pockets where patterns are already saved.

• For details, refer to “Replacing the presser foot” (page 42).

Press (Utility stitch key) on the operation panel, and select (Decorative stitch). c

X The selected pocket is shown in reverse highlighting, and the saved pattern is displayed.

Check the contents, then press .

The confirmation message is displayed.

Press .

X The saved pattern and the pocket are deleted.

X The screen containing the various decorative stitches appears.

Select .

X The pattern alignment stitch is selected.

134

Start sewing.

Press (Settings key) on the operation panel.

The pattern for making the adjustment is sewn.

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.

X The settings screen appears.

Press .

To adjust the vertical position, press for vertical pattern adjustment.

To adjust the horizontal position, press for horizontal pattern adjustment.

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.

Make the necessary adjustments according to how the pattern is sewn.

■ Vertical pattern adjustment

Press to increase the vertical space in the design.

If the pattern is not sewn correctly, follow the steps below to adjust the sewing.

Press to decrease the vertical space in the design.

Sewing the Various Built-in Decorative Patterns 135

UTILITY STITCHES

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■ Horizontal pattern adjustment

Press to increase the horizontal space in the design.

Press to decrease the horizontal space in the design.

It returns to the screen for adjusting the pattern.

Select once again, start the sewing machine and check the stitching.

Continue adjusting the pattern until it is sewn correctly.

136

Designing a Pattern (My Custom Stitch)

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

Drawing a sketch of the pattern

Mark the points in the pattern that are positioned at intersections in the grid, and then link those points with a continuous straight line.

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.

Determine the sewing order.

0 1

15 16 17

For a more attractive stitch, close the pattern by intersecting the line.

3 b

If the pattern will be repeated, determine the space between the repeating patterns.

Designing a Pattern (My Custom Stitch) 137

UTILITY STITCHES

— — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — e

Specify the coordinates of the second point, and then press .

Entering the pattern data

Follow the pattern drawn on the grid sheet and program the pattern into the sewing machine.

Attach monogramming foot “N”.

Repeat steps d

through e

to specify each point.

• For details, refer to “Replacing the presser foot” (page 42). b

Press (Utility stitch key) on the operation panel, and select .

• If you make a mistake entering a point, press

, and the previous point is erased.

• To correct the content entered, press

You can insert, delete and move points.

The screen for entering a pattern appears.

Check the grid sheet set, and specify the coordinates of the first point.

Specify the coordinates using press .

, and g

After all points have been entered, press . d

Specify whether single stitching or triple stitching will be sewn between the points.

is single stitching, and gives triple stitching.

The sewing screen appears.

138

Specify the various stitching settings, such as reverse/reinforcement stitching, in the same way as with other stitches.

• To revise the pattern, press .

Memo z The pattern you entered can be saved for later use. For details, refer to “Saving patterns” (page 133).

Designing a Pattern (My Custom Stitch) 139

UTILITY STITCHES

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Examples of designs

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

Point

140

Point

4 EMBROIDERY

The steps for embroidering are described in this chapter.

Embroidering Neatly ......................... 142

What to prepare........................... 142

Embroidery step by step ............... 144

Attaching the Embroidery Foot.......... 145

Attaching the embroidery foot ..... 145

Removing the embroidery foot..... 147

Attaching the Embroidery Unit.......... 148

Embroidery unit precautions ........ 148

Attaching the embroidery unit ..... 148

Removing the embroidery unit..... 150

Preparing the Fabric .......................... 151

Attaching an optional stabilizer material to the fabric ................... 151

Setting the fabric in the embroidery frame .............. 152

Attaching the Embroidery Frame....... 155

Attaching the embroidery frame .. 155

Removing the embroidery frame .. 156

Selecting Embroidery Patterns ...........157

Copyright information..................157

Embroidery pattern types .............157

LCD (liquid crystal display) operation ..........................................158

Selecting characters .....................160

Selecting an embroidery pattern ..161

Selecting a frame pattern .............162

Using an embroidery card

(sold separately) ...........................163

Embroidering.....................................164

Sewing attractive finishes .............164

Embroidering a pattern.................165

Appliquéing ..................................167

Editing Patterns .................................169

Adjusting the layout .....................169

Adjusting the thread tension.........171

Resewing ......................................172

Thread runs out partway through a design...........................172

Stopping while embroidering .......173

Using the Memory Function ..............175

Embroidery data precautions........175

Saving patterns .............................176

Retrieving embroidery patterns from the computer .......................177

EMBROIDERY

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Embroidering Neatly

This section describes the preparations and basic procedures for embroidering.

What to prepare

■ Stabilizer material

Attach a stabilizer material for embroidery to the fabric to prevent poor quality embroidery designs.

The following is necessary for embroidering.

■ Fabric

Prepare the fabric for embroidery. Prepare a piece of fabric a little larger than the embroidery frame that matches the size of the pattern you want to sew.

We recommend stabilizer material for embroidery. Use a water soluble sheet on thin materials like organdy and fabrics with a nap like towels. For details, refer to “Optional accessories”

(page 10).

Note z Always use stabilizer when sewing embroidery projects, especially when embroidering on lightweight or stretch fabrics. Not using a stabilizer may result in poor quality embroidery designs.

z When embroidering on large pieces of fabric, arrange the fabric so that it does not hang off the table where the sewing machine is placed. If embroidery is done with the fabric hanging off, the embroidery unit movement may be impaired, this could cause the pattern to sew incorrectly.

■ Embroidery thread

For the upper thread, use the embroidery thread or country thread.

For the bobbin thread, use the embroidery bobbin thread. For details, refer to “Optional accessories”

(page 10). CAUTION

● Do not embroider fabrics that are too thick. To check the fabric thickness, attach the embroidery frame to the embroidery unit, and use (“Needle

Position” button) to raise the needle. If there is space between the presser foot and the fabric, the fabric can be embroidered. If there is not space, do not embroider the fabric. Otherwise, the needle may break, resulting in injury.

● Be careful when sewing overlapping patterns. The needle may not easily pierce the fabric, causing the needle to break.

Note z For good quality embroidery designs be sure to use embroidery thread designed for embroidery machines.

z Before starting to sew, be sure there is enough bobbin thread. If you continue embroidering when the bobbin thread is low, the thread may become tangled.

142

■ Needle

Use a 75/11 home sewing machine needle. When embroidering on thick fabrics such as denim, use a 90/14 home sewing machine needle.

Memo z A 75/11 needle is already installed when the sewing machine is purchased.

z When replacing the needle, refer to

“Replacing the needle” (page 40).

CAUTION

● Since ball point needles (gold colored) are needles for fabrics where stitches are easily skipped, such as pattern stitching and stretch fabrics, be absolutely sure not to use them for embroidery. The needle may break or bend.

■ Other

Embroidery frames “small” and “medium” are optional. For details, refer to “Optional accessories” (page 10).

Embroidering Neatly 143

EMBROIDERY

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Embroidery step by step

The basic steps for embroidery are as follows.

Presser foot attachment

Checking the needle

Embroidery unit attachment

Replacing the bobbin case

Bobbin thread setup

Fabric preparation

Embroidery frame attachment

Pattern selection

Checking the layout

Embroidery thread setup

Attach the embroidery foot “Q”.

For details on attaching the embroidery foot, refer to “Attaching the embroidery foot” (page 145).

↓

Use a needle matched to the fabric.

For details on replacing the needle, refer to “Replacing the needle” (page

40).

↓

Attach the embroidery unit.

For details on attaching the embroidery unit, refer to “Attaching the embroidery unit” (page 148).

↓

When using other kinds of embroidery bobbin thread, use the optional alternate bobbin case (pink marking).

For details on replacing the bobbin case, refer to “Cleaning the race”

(page 180).

↓

For the bobbin thread, wind embroidery bobbin thread and set it in place.

For details on setting up the bobbin thread, refer to “Winding/Installing the Bobbin” (page 23).

↓

Attach a stabilizer material to the fabric, and hoop it in an embroidery frame.

For details on preparing the fabric, refer to “Preparing the Fabric” (page

151).

↓

Attach the embroidery frame to the embroidery unit.

For details on attaching the embroidery frame, refer to “Attaching the

Embroidery Frame” (page 155).

↓

Select an embroidery pattern.

For details on selecting embroidery patterns, refer to “Selecting

Embroidery Patterns” (page 157).

↓

Check and adjust the size and position of the embroidery.

For details on adjusting the layout, refer to “Adjusting the layout” (page

169).

↓

Set up embroidery thread according to the pattern.

For details on setting up the thread, refer to “Upper Threading” (page

29).

144

Attaching the Embroidery Foot

This section describes how to attach the embroidery foot.

Attaching the embroidery foot

Attach the embroidery foot when embroidering. Have the included embroidery foot “Q” and a screwdriver ready.

CAUTION

● Before replacing the presser foot, be sure to turn off the sewing machine, otherwise injuries may occur if (“Start/Stop” button) is accidentally pressed and the machine starts sewing.

Raise the presser foot lever.

2 a Embroidery foot bar b Caught by the presser foot holder screw a

CAUTION

● Always use the embroidery foot “Q” when embroidering. If the wrong presser foot is used, the needle may hit the presser foot and break or bend.

Press (“Needle Position” button) once or twice to raise the needle. a Presser foot lever

X The presser foot is raised.

• At the time of purchase, the presser foot lever is up. d

Press and hold the black button on the back of the presser foot holder to detach the presser foot. a

1 a “Needle Position” button

X The needle goes up.

Turn off the sewing machine. b a Black button b Presser foot holder

Attaching the Embroidery Foot 145

EMBROIDERY

— — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — e

Loosen the presser foot holder screw and remove the presser foot holder.

Turn the screwdriver toward the back. h

Secure the embroidery foot with the presser foot holder screw.

Set the embroidery foot perpendicular. b a c a Screwdriver b Presser foot holder c Presser foot holder screw f

Hold the embroidery foot with your right hand, as shown.

Hold the embroidery foot with your index finger wrapped around the lever at the back of the foot.

Firmly tighten the presser foot holder screw.

Turn the screwdriver toward the front. a a Lever g

While pressing in the lever with your finger, fit the embroidery foot bar over the needle clamp screw to attach the embroidery foot to the presser foot bar.

CAUTION

● Do not hit the needle with your finger or the embroidery foot “Q” when attaching it. The needle may break or cause injury.

● Be sure to tighten the screw with the included screwdriver. If the screw is loose, the needle may hit the presser foot and break or bend.

● Before sewing, always turn the handwheel toward you (counterclockwise) slowly to make sure that the needle does not hit the presser foot. Otherwise, the needle may break or bend.

a Embroidery foot bar b Needle clamp screw

146

Removing the embroidery foot

Press (“Needle Position” button) once or twice to raise the needle.

1 a “Needle Position” button b

Turn off the sewing machine.

Raise the presser foot lever.

a a Presser foot lever

X The presser foot is raised.

While pressing in the lever at the back of the embroidery foot with your finger, loosen the presser foot holder screw, and then remove embroidery foot “Q”.

Turn the screwdriver toward the back.

4 e

Attach the presser foot holder.

• For details, refer to “Attaching the presser foot holder” (page 44).

Attaching the Embroidery Foot 147

EMBROIDERY

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Attaching the Embroidery Unit

This section describes how to attach the embroidery unit.

Embroidery unit precautions

Cautions for the embroidery unit will be explained below.

CAUTION

● Do not move the sewing machine with the embroidery unit in place. The embroidery unit may be dropped and cause injury.

● Keep your hands and other objects away from the embroidery carriage and frame.

Otherwise injury may result.

Attaching the embroidery unit

Get the included embroidery unit ready. a

Turn off the sewing machine.

Note z Do not touch the connector in the embroidery unit connector slot. The connector could be damaged, and it may cause malfunctions.

z Do not lift up on the embroidery carriage, and do not forcefully move it. It may cause malfunctions.

Pull the flat bed attachment off to the left.

Slide the tab on the cover of the connection port in the direction of the arrow to open the cover.

Note z Be sure to close the cover of the connection port when the embroidery unit is not being used.

148

Slide the embroidery unit onto the sewing machine arm.

Push it in until it clicks and stops.

CAUTION

● Do not put your hands or other objects near the carriage. It may cause injury.

Note z If the machine is initialized with hands or objects near the carriage, the screen may return to the initial display. After removing whatever is near the carriage, turn the power on again.

X The screen for selecting the embroidery pattern type is displayed.

X The embroidery unit is attached.

Turn on the sewing machine.

X The confirmation message is displayed.

Be sure that no objects or hands are near the embroidery unit and press .

• For details on the embroidery patterns, refer to

“Selecting Embroidery Patterns” (page 157).

Memo z Utility stitches cannot be selected when the embroidery unit is attached.

• When an animation is displayed on the screen, the message above will be displayed if you touch the screen with your finger.

The carriage moves to its initial position.

a a Carriage

Attaching the Embroidery Unit 149

EMBROIDERY

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Removing the embroidery unit

Make sure that the sewing machine is completely stopped and follow the instructions below.

Remove the embroidery frame.

• For details on removing the embroidery frame, refer to “Removing the embroidery frame” (page 156).

Press , and then press .

Hold the release button on the bottom left of the embroidery unit, and slowly pull the embroidery unit to the left. a

X The embroidery carriage moves into a position where it can be stored. c

Turn off the sewing machine.

a Release button

X The embroidery unit separates from the sewing machine.

CAUTION

● Do not carry the embroidery unit by holding the release button compartment.

CAUTION

● Always turn off the sewing machine before removing the embroidery unit.

It may cause malfunctions if removed when the machine is turned on.

150

Preparing the Fabric

After attaching a stabilizer material to the embroidery fabric, it is stretched on an embroidery frame.

Attaching an optional stabilizer material to the fabric

Prepare stabilizer material that is larger than the embroidery frame being used.

Attach a stabilizer material for embroidery to the fabric to prevent poor quality embroidery designs.

Memo z We recommend the stabilizer material for embroidery. Use a water soluble stabilizer on thin materials like organdy and fabrics with a nap like towels. For details, refer to

“Optional accessories” (page 10).

1 3

2 a Fabric b Size of embroidery frame c Stabilizer material b

If you are using stabilizers with adhesive, place the adhesive surface of the stabilizer material against the wrong side of the fabric, and iron it with a steam iron.

Note z Always use stabilizer material for embroidery with stretch fabrics, thin fabrics, fabrics with a loose weave and fabrics where stitches easily contract.

CAUTION

● Always use stabilizer material when sewing embroidery projects. The needle may break or bend if you embroider without using a stabilizer material for thin fabrics or stretch fabrics. Furthermore, the pattern may be sewn incorrectly.

3 a Stabilizer material b Fabric (wrong side) c Attached surface

 When it cannot be ironed or placed in the hoop.

For fabrics, such as towels, which cannot be ironed or for embroidering in places where ironing is difficult, place the stabilizer material under the fabric, and stretch the fabric in the embroidery frame without attaching the stabilizer.

Preparing the Fabric 151

EMBROIDERY

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Setting the fabric in the embroidery frame

The fabric is stretched in the embroidery frame. If the fabric is loose, the quality of the embroidery pattern may be poor. Put the fabric in the frame without slack following the steps below. Have a fabric with a stabilizer material attached and the embroidery frame

(medium, small, large or extra large (multi-position)) ready.

■ Embroidery frame (large)

Embroidery can be done in an area with a height of up to 18 cm (7 inches) and a width of up to 13 cm

(5 inches). This is used to embroider multiple patterns without changing the fabric position in the frame.

■ Embroidery frame (medium)[option]

Patterns with a height of up to 10 cm (4 inches) and a width of up to 10 cm (4 inches) can be sewn.

CAUTION

● Use the embroidery frame that matches the size of the pattern being embroidered.

Otherwise, the embroidery frame may be hit by the presser foot and cause injury or needle breakage.

Loosen the embroidery frame adjustment screw and remove the inner and outer frames, placing the outer frame on a flat surface.

Separate the inner and outer frame by removing inner frame upward.

3 a Inner frame b Outer frame c Adjustment screw b

Place the fabric with the stabilizer material on top of the outer frame.

Have the right side of the cloth up.

■ Embroidery frame (small)[option]

Patterns with a height of up to 2 cm (1 inch) and a width of up to 6 cm (2-1/2 inches) can be sewn.

This is used for letters and other small embroidery.

• There are patterns for which embroidery frame (small) cannot be used.

■ Embroidery frame (extra large (multi-position))

Embroidery can be done in an area with a height of up to 30 cm (12 inches) and a width of up to 13 cm

(5 inches). This is used to embroider connected or combined characters or patterns, or large patterns.

a Right side c

Press the inner frame in from the top of the fabric.

Line up on the inner frame and on outer frame.

152

Tighten the adjustment screw by hand just enough to secure the fabric.

Tighten the adjustment screw while removing any slack in the fabric by hand. The goal is to have a drum-like sound when the stretched fabric is struck lightly.

Gently remove the fabric from the frame without loosening the adjustment screw.

■ Using embroidery sheets

If the embroidery sheet attached to the embroidery frame is used, the embroidery can be sewn in exactly the right position on the fabric.

Memo z This precautionary step will help reduce pattern distortion while embroidering.

Press the inner frame in from the top of the fabric again, lining up on the inner frame and on outer frame.

Make a mark with a chalk pen at the center of the position for the pattern to be embroidered.

1 2

5 a Outer frame b Inner frame c Fabric (right side ) d Stabilizer material e Ledge of outer frame

• Press down firmly until the inner frame is securely pressed against the ledge of the outer frame.

a Embroidery pattern b Mark

Preparing the Fabric 153

EMBROIDERY

— — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — b

Place the embroidery sheet on the inner frame.

■ Embroidery on fabrics that cannot be stretched on an embroidery frame

When small pieces of fabric that cannot be stretched on an embroidery frame or thin pieces like ribbon are being embroidered, use stabilizer material as a base to stretch on the frame.

We recommend stabilizer material for all embroidery.

2 a Embroidery sheet b Inner frame c Embroidery sheet base lines c

Line the mark on the fabric up with the base line on the embroidery sheet.

2 d

Place the inner frame with the fabric on the outer frame and stretch the fabric.

• For details, refer to page 152. e

Remove the embroidery sheet.

3 a Stabilizer material b Tack or spray glue c Fabric

After completing the embroidery, remove the stabilizer material carefully.

154

Attaching the Embroidery Frame

This section describes how to attach the embroidery frame.

Attaching the embroidery frame

Wind the embroidery bobbin thread onto the bobbin and set it into the bobbin case.

• For details, refer to “Winding/Installing the

Bobbin” (page 23). b

Raise the presser foot lever.

1 a Lever

2 a a Presser foot lever c

Pass the embroidery frame under the presser foot while raising the presser foot lever even further.

2 a Mounting brackets b Pins

CAUTION

● Do not hit the needle with your finger or the embroidery frame. It may cause injury or needle breakage.

While lightly holding the lever on the frame holder to the left, align the two pins on the embroidery frame holder with the mounting brackets on the frame, and then press the frame into the embroidery frame holder until a click is heard.

After pressing the front mounting bracket onto the pin so that it clicks into place, press the back mounting bracket into place.

Note z Be sure to insert both pins. If only the forward or the back pin is inserted, the pattern may not turn out correctly.

CAUTION

● Correctly set the embroidery frame into the embroidery frame holder. Otherwise, the presser foot may hit the embroidery frame, resulting in injury.

Attaching the Embroidery Frame 155

EMBROIDERY

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Removing the embroidery frame

Make sure that the sewing machine is completely stopped and follow the instructions below.

Raise the presser foot lever. c

Pass the embroidery frame under the presser foot while raising the presser foot lever even further. a a Presser foot lever b

While pushing the lever of the embroidery frame holder to the left, lift the embroidery frame up to remove it.

Remove the back mounting bracket from the pin, and then remove the front mounting bracket from the pin.

CAUTION

● Do not hit the needle with your finger or the embroidery frame. It may cause injury or needle breakage.

1 a Lever

2 a Mounting brackets b Pins

156

Selecting Embroidery Patterns

This section provides details on the various types of embroidery patterns available and the procedure for selecting a pattern.

Copyright information

■ Frame patterns

10 shapes, such as squares and circles, can be combined with 12 stitch types.

The patterns saved in the sewing machine and embroidery cards are intended for private use only.

Any public or commercial use of copyrighted patterns is an infringement of copyright law and is strictly prohibited.

• For details, refer to “Selecting a frame pattern” (page 162).

■ Embroidery card (sold separately)

Patterns from an embroidery card can be embroidered.

Embroidery pattern types

An embroidery pattern can be selected from the following types available.

a b c d

• For details, refer to “Using an embroidery card (sold separately)” (page 163).

■ Patterns saved in the machine's memory

Patterns, such as frequently used character combinations, can be saved in the machine’s memory to be retrieved later and embroidered.

Patterns consisting of up to 12 patterns or 512 KB can be saved.

• For details, refer to “Saving patterns” (page

176).

■ Patterns retrieved from the computer

Patterns retrieved from a computer can be embroidered.

• For details, refer to “Retrieving embroidery patterns from the computer” (page 177). e f g a Embroidery patterns b Additional embroidery patterns c Alphabet patterns d Frame patterns e Embroidery card f Patterns saved in the machine's memory g Patterns retrieved from the computer

■ Embroidery patterns (Embroidery patterns/

Additional embroidery patterns)

There are total 136 patterns. The patterns are completed by changing the upper thread according to the instructions displayed on the screen.

• For details, refer to “Selecting an embroidery pattern” (page 161).

■ Alphabet patterns

There are 6 types of characters (European characters); upper case/lower case/numbers/ symbols.

• For details, refer to “Selecting characters”

(page 160).

Selecting Embroidery Patterns 157

EMBROIDERY

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LCD (liquid crystal display) operation

The LCD (liquid crystal display) is operated using the operation keys on the operation panel. The use of the keys for embroidery will be explained below.

■ Operation keys DISPLAY UNIT

The measurement units that are displayed can be selected. [mm/inch]

EMBROIDERY TENSION

The thread tension for embroidering can be adjusted. [-8 to +8]

MAX EMBROIDERY SPEED (SPM)

The maximum embroidering speed can be selected. [650SPM/350SPM]

Press

Returns to the previous screen.

When there are patterns that are not displayed on the screen (when or is displayed), the previous patterns/subsequent patterns are displayed.

Returns to the type selection screen.

The selected pattern is cancelled.

Press this key to adjust language or change the thread color display or other settings.

(Settings key).

158

NAME OF COLOR: Typical color name

TIME: Time required for embroidering

NEEDLE COUNT: Needle progress number

#123: Select from the following thread color number sets

• EMBROIDERY (POLYESTER) THREAD#

• COUNTRY (COTTON) THREAD#

• MADEIRA POLY THREAD#

• MADEIRA RAYON THREAD#

• SULKY POLY THREAD#

• ROBISON-ANTON POLY THREAD#

■ LCD button

When a specific pattern is selected, press this key and then, press

to switch the display. The sewing settings such as the specified alphabet character string and color are confirmed.

The needle progresses one color or one stitch (if pressed continuously, 9 stitches to 20 stitches) at a time and changes the position for starting the embroidery. This is used when a specific color is not sewn or when restarting the sewing machine after power has been turned off in the middle of the operation.

Press this key to change the thread settings. Back one color

Back one stitch

Forward one color

Forward one stitch

• For details, refer to “Resewing” (page 172).

The position of the pattern within the embroidery frame can be checked, and the size and angle can be changed.

Press this key to select or cancel programmed thread cutting.

Press or to adjust the thread tension.

thread density (character patterns only).

Press this key to adjust the pattern.

• For details, refer to “Adjusting the layout”

(page 169).

Memo z Keys that appear surrounded with a dotted line cannot be used.

Press this key when you want to change the color character by character in character embroidery.

Since the sewing machine stops at the end of each character, the upper thread is changed as you sew.

Press this key again to cancel multi-color.

Selecting Embroidery Patterns 159

EMBROIDERY

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Selecting characters

Specify the characters for embroidery.

Memo z When “The pattern is too large for the embroidery frame.“ is displayed, no more characters can be input. z Characters of different styles (sans serif, serif, and outline, etc.) cannot be combined.

Select the character stitches.

Select the character style.

Select the characters.

If a wrong character was selected, press

Example: Welcome

Switch between uppercase/lowercase

Switch among large/medium/small sizes

160

Select the pattern.

Switch the screen using key) and

(Previous page

(Next page key).

Memo z The character pattern that you created can be saved for later use. For details, refer to

“Saving patterns” (page 176).

Selecting an embroidery pattern

There are total of 136 embroidery patterns, such as fruits and animals, saved in the machine's memory.

70 Embroidery patterns

66 Embroidery patterns

Memo z Refer to “Embroidery Pattern Color Change

Table“ in the Quick reference guide for samples of completed patterns and the thread used. a

Select the type of the embroidery pattern.

• When / is pressed, the display of patterns moves backward/forward 10 patterns.

X When a pattern is selected, it can be embroidered.

X The pattern selection screen is displayed.

Selecting Embroidery Patterns 161

EMBROIDERY

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Selecting a frame pattern

10 shapes, such as squares and circles, can be combined with 12 stitch types.

Select the stitch.

Switch the screen using (Previous page key) (Next page key), and select from the

12 stitches.

Memo z Refer to “Frame patterns“ in the Quick reference guide for frame pattern shapes and stitches. a

Press the frame pattern.

X When a stitch is selected, it can be embroidered.

X The frame shape selection screen is displayed.

Select the frame shape.

Switch the screen using (Previous page key) ten types.

(Next page key), and select from the

162

X The stitch selection screen is displayed.

Using an embroidery card

(sold separately)

If an embroidery card is used, you can embroider patterns other than the patterns saved in the sewing machine. There are various cards with different themes.

Insert the embroidery card in the embroidery card slot on the right side of the sewing machine.

Face the arrow on the embroidery card toward you, and insert it in the direction of the arrow.

Note z Always turn off the sewing machine to insert and remove embroidery cards.

z Insert the embroidery card into the embroidery card slot, facing it in the right direction.

z Do not put anything other than an embroidery card in the embroidery card slot. z When embroidery cards are not in use, keep them in their storage cases.

z Use only embroidery cards manufactured for this machine. Using unauthorized cards may cause your machine to operate incorrectly.

z Embroidery cards purchased in foreign countries may not work with your machine.

z Large patterns supplied on embroidery cards may be difficult to view on the screen.

Turn on the sewing machine.

Press the embroidery card on the screen. a

Turn off the sewing machine.

The selection screen for the patterns saved in the card is displayed.

Select a pattern.

The operation is the same as in “Selecting

Embroidery Patterns” (page 157).

Selecting Embroidery Patterns 163

EMBROIDERY

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Embroidering

After the preparations are done, you can try embroidering. This section describes the steps for embroidering and appliquéing.

Sewing attractive finishes

There are many factors that go into sewing beautiful embroidery. Using the appropriate stabilizer (page 151) and hooping the fabric in the frame (page 152) are two important factors mentioned earlier. Another important point is the appropriateness of the needle and thread being used. See the explanation of threads below. Included with this machine are two bobbin cases. Follow the explanation below.

Thread

Upper thread

Bobbin thread

Use embroidery thread, or country embroidery thread intended for use with this machine.

Other embroidery threads may not yield optimum results.

Use embroidery bobbin thread intended for use with this machine.

Memo z If you use threads other than those listed above, the embroidery may not sew out correctly.

Bobbin case Standard bobbin case (green marking on the screw) is in the machine for sewing and embroidery. The bobbin case originally installed in the machine has a green screw.

1 Marking Green/Pink

Alternate bobbin case (pink marking on the screw) is set with tighter tension for embroidery with different weights of bobbin threads and a variety of embroidery techniques.

For details on how to remove the bobbin case, refer to “Cleaning the race” (page 180).

Note z Before embroidering, check that there is enough thread in the bobbin. If you continue sewing without enough thread in the bobbin, the thread may tangle.

z Do not leave objects in the range of motion of the embroidery frame. The frame may strike the object and cause a poor finish to the embroidery pattern.

z When embroidering on large garments (especially jackets or other heavy fabrics), do not let the fabric hang over the table. Otherwise, the embroidery unit cannot move freely, and the pattern may not turn out as planned.

164

Example: Embroidery thread number selected

Embroidering a pattern

Embroidery patterns are embroidered with a change of thread after each color. a

Prepare embroidery thread of the color shown on the screen. c a b d e a Embroidery frames that can be used for embroidering b Current color step/Number of colors in design c Current name of color d Current color part e Next color part

• The thread color number set displayed for the thread colors can be changed. Press

(Settings key), and then change the setting in the settings screen. For details, refer to “LCD

(liquid crystal display) operation” (page 158).

Set the embroidery thread, and thread the needle.

• Refer to “Threading the upper thread” (page

30) and “Threading the needle” (page 32).

Note z Before using the needle threader, be sure to lower the presser foot.

Pass the thread through the embroidery foot hole, and hold it lightly in your left hand.

Give the thread a little slack.

CAUTION

● If the thread is pulled too tight, the needle may break or bend.

● Do not let hands or objects hit the carriage while sewing. The pattern may misalign.

Embroidering 165

EMBROIDERY

— — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — d

Lower the presser foot lever.

1 a Presser foot lever e

Press (“Start/Stop” button).

Press (“Start/Stop” button) again.

X The embroidery begins again.

Stitching stops automatically with reinforcement after one color has been completed. When automatic thread cutting is set, the thread is cut. i

Set up embroidery thread for the next color, and repeat steps a

through h

. j

Cut the excess thread.

X When the last color is sewn, “Finished sewing.” will appear on the display. Press

, and the display will return to the initial screen.

Memo z For the automatic cutting setting, refer to

“LCD (liquid crystal display) operation”

(page 158).

1 a “Start/Stop” button f

After progressing 5-6 stitches, press

(“Start/Stop” button) to stop the machine. g

Use scissors to cut the thread at the beginning of the stitching.

Cut the thread at the edge of the stitching.

• If the thread is left at the beginning of the stitching, it may be sewn over as you continue embroidering the pattern, making it very difficult to deal with the thread after the pattern is finished. Trim the thread at the beginning.

166

Appliquéing

Prepare the base fabric and the appliqué fabric

(appliqué piece). Press (Settings key), and set the thread color display to NAME OF COLOR, so

“APPLIQUE MATERIAL”, “APPLIQUE POSITION” and “APPLIQUE” are displayed on the screen.

Select an appliqué pattern. d

Remove the fabric from the embroidery frame, and cut it out along the cut-out line.

Cut carefully along the stitching and remove the thread.

When “APPLIQUE MATERIAL“ is displayed on the screen, apply iron-on stabilizer to the back of the appliqué piece fabric, and stretch it on the embroidery frame.

• If it is not cut right on the stitching, it will not be finished neatly. e

Stretch the base fabric on the embroidery frame.

Set up the thread for appliquéing. g

Lower the presser foot lever, and press

(“Start/Stop” button).

X The position for the appliqué is stitched, and the sewing machine stops.

4 c

Lower the presser foot lever, and press

(“Start/Stop” button).

The cut-out for the appliqué piece is sewn, and the sewing machine stops.

2 a Appliqué position b Base fabric

“APPLIQUE“ will be displayed on the screen.

2 a Cut-out line b Appliqué piece fabric

“APPLIQUE POSITION“ will be displayed on the screen.

Apply a thin layer of fabric glue or spray adhesive to the back of the appliqué piece, and attach it in the appliqué position.

Embroidering 167

EMBROIDERY

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Lower the presser foot lever, and press

(“Start/Stop” button).

Note z When “APPLIQUE MATERIAL”, “APPLIQUE

POSITION” and “APPLIQUE” are displayed, a specific color thread does not appear. Use a proper color thread to match the appliqué piece.

Follow the instructions on the screen, and change thread colors as you sew.

168

Editing Patterns

This section describes ways to edit, adjust, and reposition patterns.

Adjusting the layout

Check and adjust the layout. a b c d e f

The pattern is normally positioned in the center of the embroidery frame.

You can check the layout before starting embroidery and change the position and the size.

Memo z Keys that appear surrounded with a dotted line cannot be used.

After selecting the embroidery pattern, press

The embroidery screen is displayed.

Press .

k j a Layout within the frame b Available embroidery frames c Display unit (cm/INCH) d Change position keys e Size key f Layout key g Rotation key h Horizontal mirror image key i Distance from the center j Embroidery size k Starting point key g h i

Embroidery frame size

These flash if the pattern was resized, the layout was adjusted, or the recommended embroidery frame size was changed. Embroidery frame icons that appear in gray cannot be used.

Size key

Increases/decreases the size of the pattern. Press previous screen.

to return to the

X The layout screen is displayed.

Decreases size

Returns to original size

Returns to center position (when the pattern was moved with the change position key)

Increases size

Change position keys

Moves the embroidery position up, down, left and right.

Editing Patterns 169

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Memo z If you make a note of the values in the lower part of screen when you change the size and position, you can sew with the same size and layout even if you have to turn the power back on in the middle of your work.

• Press

Starting point key

Moves the needle start position to align the needle with the pattern position.

to return to the previous screen.

Layout key

Press this key to move to rotation screen.

Moves the needle to the position of the selected needle start position.

Moves the frame to check the pattern position.

Rotation key

Rotates the pattern one degree, 10 degrees or 90 degrees at a time.

• Press (Back key) to return to the previous screen.

Rotates the pattern 90 degrees to the left

Rotates the pattern 90 degrees to the right

Rotates the pattern 10 degrees to the left

Rotates the pattern 10 degrees to the right

Rotates the pattern 1 degree to the left

Rotates the pattern 1 degree to the right

Returns the pattern to its original position

Horizontal mirror image key

Mirrors the pattern left and right.

CAUTION

● Never lower the needle when the embroidery frame is moving. The needle may break or bend.

● When you have revised the pattern, check the display of available embroidery frames and use an appropriate frame. If you use an embroidery frame not displayed as available for use, the presser foot may strike the frame and possibly cause injury.

170

Press (Back key) to return to the original screen.

Adjusting the thread tension

If embroidery fails, it is difficult to undo the thread and the fabric may be damaged. Before embroidering, use a scrap of the same fabric to check the adjustment of the thread tension, etc.

To adjust the thread tension, press key).

(Settings

Memo z When the power is turned off, the layout returns to the original setting. z You can also check the pattern size and distance from the center by pressing after beginning embroidering.

Press

to weaken the thread tension.

to tighten the thread tension.

■ Correct thread tension

The thread tension is correct when upper thread is just visible on back of the fabric.

1 2 a Right side b Wrong side

■ Upper thread is too tight

The lower thread will be visible on the front of the fabric. In this instance, decrease the upper thread tension.

1 2 a Right side b Wrong side

■ Upper thread is too loose

The upper thread has slack. In this instance, increase the upper thread tension. a Right side b Wrong side

1 2

Editing Patterns 171

EMBROIDERY

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Resewing

When the wrong upper thread color has been sewn, it can be resewn with the correct color.

Press (“Start/Stop” button) to stop the sewing machine. b

Press .

Thread runs out partway through a design

When the upper thread or the bobbin thread runs out while sewing, the sewing machine stops. Move the needle back about 10 stitches and resume sewing.

Set up the upper or bobbin thread. b

Press .

Press (Back one color) to return to the beginning of the mistaken color.

Press (Back one stitch) to move the needle back about 10 stitches.

(Forward one stitch) increases the stitch number. e

Set up the correct color for the upper thread. f

Press (“Start/Stop” button) to continue the design.

Restart the embroidery.

172

Press (Embroidery key).

Stopping while embroidering

If the embroidery is stopped before it is complete, check the current needle count before turning off the sewing machine.

Memo z When the sewing machine is turned off, the embroidery size and layout return to the original setting.

X The confirmation message is displayed.

Press .

Press (“Start/Stop” button) to stop the sewing machine. b

Check the current needle count on the screen and make a note of it.

If the needle count is not displayed, press

(Settings key), and then use the following screen.

to display

X The selected pattern is deleted, and the screen for selecting the embroidery pattern type is displayed.

Turn off the sewing machine.

• Always detach the embroidery unit when you move the sewing machine. f

Turn on the sewing machine and select the pattern.

Press

Press (Back key) to return to the embroidery screen.

Editing Patterns 173

EMBROIDERY

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Press .

Press (Forward one color) to move to the beginning of the color you want to embroider.

Press (Forward one stitch) to increase the needle count.

If is pressed continuously, it moves forward 1 —> 9 —> 30 stitches.

Move forward to about 10 stitches before the total number of stitches confirmed in b

Restart the embroidery.

174

Using the Memory Function

Embroidery data precautions

Observe the following precautions when using embroidery data other than that created and saved in this machine.

CAUTION

● When using embroidery data other than our original patterns, the thread or needle may break when sewing with a stitch density that is too fine or when sewing three or more overlapping stitches. In that case, use one of our original data design systems to edit the embroidery data.

■ Types of Embroidery Data that can be Used

• Only .pes and .dst embroidery data files can be used with this machine. Using data other than that saved using our data design systems or sewing machines may cause the embroidery machine to malfunction.

■ Computers and Operating Systems with the Following Specifications can be Used

• Compatible models:

IBM PC with a USB port as standard equipment

IBM PC-compatible computer equipped with a USB port as standard equipment

• Compatible operating systems:

Microsoft Windows Me/2000/XP

(Windows 98SE requires a driver. Download the driver from our web site (www.brother.com).)

■ Precautions on Using the Computer to Create and Save Data

• If the file name of embroidery data cannot be identified, for example, because the name contains special characters, the file is not displayed. If this occurs, change the name of the file. We recommend using the

26 letters of the alphabet (uppercase and lowercase), the numbers 0 through 9, “-”, and “_”.

• If .pes embroidery data larger than 30 cm (H) × 13 cm (W) is selected, a message appears asking if you wish to rotate the pattern 90 degrees.

Embroidery data larger than 30 cm (H) × 13 cm (W), even after being rotated 90 degrees, cannot be used

(All designs must be within the 30 cm (H) × 13 cm (W) design field size.)

• .pes files saved with the number of stitches, the number of colors and the number of combined patterns exceeding the specified limits cannot be displayed. Use one of our original data design systems to edit the embroidery pattern so that it meets the specifications.

• Embroidery data stored in a folder created in USB media can be retrieved.

• Do not create folders in “Removable Disk” on a computer. If embroidery data is stored in a folder in

“Removable Disk”, that embroidery data cannot be retrieved by the machine.

• Even if the embroidery unit is not attached, the machine will manage embroidery data.

■ Tajima (.dst) Embroidery Data

• .dst data is displayed in the pattern list screen by file name (the actual image cannot be displayed). Only the first eight characters of the file name can be displayed.

• Since Tajima (.dst) data does not contain specific thread color information, it is displayed with our default thread color sequence. Check the preview and change the thread colors as desired.

■ Trademarks

• IBM is a registered trademark or a trademark of International Business Machines Corporation.

• Microsoft and Windows are registered trademarks or trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.

Each company whose software title is mentioned in this manual has a Software License Agreement specific to its proprietary programs.

All other brands and product names mentioned in this manual are registered trademarks of their respective companies. However, the explanations for markings such as

and

™

are not clearly described within the text.

Using the Memory Function 175

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Saving patterns

The embroidery patterns and the alphabet characters you have customized can be saved in the sewing machine's memory.

Since the saved patterns will not be erased when the power is turned off, you can always retrieve them for embroidery. This is convenient for saving names and the like. You can save up to 12 patterns or 512 KB of data.

■ Saving a pattern a

After selecting the pattern to be saved, press

(Memory key).

Select the pattern you wish to retrieve.

Switch screens using (Previous page key) and (Next page key).

b a c a Total amount of memory used b Total amount of memory space c Number of the currently displayed page from the total number of pages

X The selected pattern is shown in reverse highlighting.

Press .

To delete the saved pattern, press .

After the pattern is saved, the initial screen appears again.

Note z Do not turn off the sewing machine while the pattern is being saved, otherwise the pattern data may be lost.

■ Retrieving a pattern. a

Press .

The saved pattern is retrieved.

X The embroidery screen appears, and you can embroider the retrieved pattern.

X The saved patterns are displayed.

Note z Characters saved from an embroidery card must have the embroidery card inserted in the machine in order to retrieve the memory saved from the embroidery card.

176

Copy the pattern data to “Removable Disk”.

Retrieving embroidery patterns from the computer

Plug the USB cable connectors into the corresponding USB port connectors on the computer and on the machine.

a b

X Pattern data in “Removable Disk” is written to the machine.

Note z While data is being written, do not disconnect the USB cable.

z Do not create folders within “Removable

Disk”. Since folders are not displayed, pattern data within folders cannot be retrieved.

z While the machine is sewing, do not write data to or delete data from “Removable Disk”.

a a b

USB port connector for computer

USB cable connector b

Memo z The USB cable can be plugged into the USB port connectors on the computer and machine whether or not they are turned on.

Press .

4 b

The “Removable Disk” icon appears in “My

Computer” on the computer.

The saved patterns are displayed.

Using the Memory Function 177

EMBROIDERY

— — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — e

Select the pattern you wish to retrieve.

Switch screens using (Previous page key) and (Next page key). b a c g

Adjust the pattern as desired, and then begin embroidering.

a Total amount of memory used b Total amount of memory space c Number of the currently displayed page from the total number of pages

X The selected pattern is shown in reverse highlighting.

Press .

Note z If there are 13 or more patterns saved in

“Removable Disk”, the patterns cannot be displayed. When the message “Reduce the number of patterns. Only up to 12 patterns can be handled.” appears, delete patterns from “Removable Disk” so that it contains no more than 12 patterns. Then, close the error message, repeat the procedure starting from step d

and then press to retrieve the pattern.

z If patterns copied to “Removable Disk” are not saved in the machine's memory, their data is lost when the machine is turned off.

In order to retrieving patterns directly from the machine the next time that they are needed, save the data in the machine's memory before turning off the machine. For details, refer to “Saving patterns” (page 176).

The saved pattern is retrieved.

X The embroidery screen appears, and you can embroider the retrieved pattern.

178

5 APPENDIX

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

Care and Maintenance ..........................................................................................180

Cleaning the machine surface ..........................................................................180

Cleaning the race .............................................................................................180

Troubleshooting ....................................................................................................182

Error messages .................................................................................................187

Adjusting the LCD ............................................................................................190

Operation beep ................................................................................................190

Canceling the operation beep ..........................................................................191

Upgrading Your Machine’s Software.....................................................................192

Index .....................................................................................................................193

APPENDIX

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Care and Maintenance

Simple sewing machine maintenance operations are described below.

Cleaning the machine surface

Grasp both sides of the needle plate cover, and then slide it toward you.

If the surface of the machine is dirty, lightly soak a cloth in neutral detergent, squeeze it out firmly, and then wipe the surface of the machine. After cleaning it once with a damp cloth, wipe it again with a dry cloth.

CAUTION

● Unplug the power cord before cleaning the machine, otherwise injuries or an electric shock may occur.

a a Needle plate cover

X The needle plate cover is removed.

Remove the bobbin case.

Grasp the bobbin case, and then pull it out.

Cleaning the race

Sewing performance will suffer if dust collects in the bobbin case, therefore, it should be cleaned periodically.

Turn off the sewing machine.

1 a Bobbin case f

Use the cleaning brush or a vacuum cleaner to remove any lint and dust from the race and its surrounding area.

Unplug the power cord from the power supply jack on the right side of the sewing machine.

CAUTION

● Unplug the power cord before cleaning the machine, otherwise injuries or an electric shock may occur.

Remove the flat bed attachment or the embroidery unit if either is attached.

a b a Cleaning brush b Race

• Do not apply oil to the bobbin case .

180

Insert the bobbin case so that the projection on the bobbin case aligns with the spring.

Insert the tabs on the needle plate cover into the needle plate, and then slide the cover back on.

a b a Projection b Spring

2 a a Needle plate cover

CAUTION

● Never use a bobbin case that is scratched, otherwise the upper thread may become tangled, the needle may break or sewing performance may suffer. For a new bobbin case (part code: XC3153-151

(green marking), XC8167-251(pink marking)), contact your nearest authorized service center.

● Be sure that the bobbin case is correctly installed, otherwise the needle may break.

5 a Bobbin case

Care and Maintenance 181

APPENDIX

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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

The machine is not turned on.

The needle clamp screw is loose.

The needle is bent or blunt.

Remedy

Turn on the machine.

The “Start/Stop” button was not pressed.

The sewing machine does not operate.

The presser foot lever is raised.

The “Start/Stop” button was pressed, even though the foot controller is connected.

Press the “Start/Stop” button.

Lower the presser foot lever.

Do not use the “Start/Stop” button when the foot controller is connected. To use the “Start/Stop” button, disconnect the foot controller.

The needle is incorrectly installed. Correctly install the needle.

Use the screwdriver to firmly tighten the screw.

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.

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.

The upper thread tension is too tight.

Loosen the upper thread tension.

The needle breaks.

The fabric is pulled too much.

Lightly guide the fabric.

The spool is incorrectly installed.

Correctly install the spool.

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.

The bobbin case is scratched, or has a burr on it.

Replace the presser foot. Contact your retailer or the nearest authorized service center.

Replace the bobbin case. Contact your retailer or the nearest authorized service center.

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.

Reference page 17 page 51 page 50 page 51 page 40 page 39 page 68 page 57

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– page 23

182

Symptom

Bobbin thread does not wind neatly on the

bobbin.

Probable Cause Remedy

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 guide).

Correct the upper threading.

There are knots or tangles in the thread.

The selected needle is not appropriate for the thread being used.

Remove any knots or tangles.

Select a needle that is appropriate for the type of thread being used.

The upper thread tension is too tight.

Loosen the upper thread tension.

The upper thread breaks.

The thread is tangled, for example, in the bobbin case.

Remove the tangled thread. If the thread is tangled in the bobbin case, clean the race.

The needle is bent or blunt.

Replace the needle.

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 bobbin case is scratched, or has a burr on it.

Replace the bobbin case. 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.

The thread that was pulled out was not wound onto the bobbin correctly.

Bobbin spins slowly.

Wind the thread that was pulled off around the bobbin five or six times clockwise.

Move the sewing speed controller to the right (so that the speed will be fast).

Reference page 29

– page 39 page 57 page 180 page 40

–

– page 23 page 25 page 26

Troubleshooting 183

APPENDIX

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

Symptom Probable Cause

The bobbin thread is incorrectly installed.

The bobbin is scratched or does not rotate smoothly, or has a burr on it.

The lower thread is tangled or breaks.

The thread is tangled.

Remedy

Correctly install the bobbin thread.

Replace the bobbin.

Remove the tangled thread and clean the race.

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.

The upper thread was not threaded correctly.

Correct the upper threading.

The bobbin thread is incorrectly installed.

Correctly install the bobbin thread.

The combination of fabric, thread and needle is not correct.

The thread tension is incorrect.

The presser foot holder is incorrectly installed.

The thread tension is incorrect.

Select a thread and needle that are appropriate for the type of fabric being sewn.

Correctly install the presser foot holder.

Adjust the tension of the upper thread.

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.

The upper thread was not threaded correctly, or the bobbin is incorrectly installed.

Correctly thread the upper thread and correctly install the bobbin thread.

The fabric is wrinkled.

The spool is incorrectly installed.

Correctly install the spool.

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.

The needle is bent or blunt.

If thin fabrics are being sewn, the stitch is too long.

The thread tension is incorrect.

Replace the needle.

Shorten the stitch length or sew with stabilizer material under the fabric.

Adjust the tension of the upper thread.

Reference page 27

– page 180 page 23 page 29 page 27 page 39 page 44 page 57 page 23 page 27, page 29 page 29 page 39 page 40 page 57, page 64 page 57

184

Symptom

Stitches are skipped.

A high-pitched noise is made while sewing.

Probable Cause

The upper thread was not threaded correctly.

Remedy

Correct the upper threading.

The combination of fabric, thread and needle is not correct.

The needle is bent or blunt.

Select a thread and needle that are appropriate for the type of fabric being sewn.

Replace the needle.

The needle is incorrectly installed. Correctly install the needle.

Dust has accumulated under the needle plate or in the bobbin case.

Remove the needle plate cover and clean the race.

Dust has accumulated in the feed dogs or in the bobbin case.

Clean the race.

The upper thread was not threaded correctly.

Correct the upper threading.

The bobbin case is scratched, or has a burr on it.

Replace the bobbin case. 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.

The thread does not pass through the eye of the needle.

The needle has not been raised to the correct position.

Press the “Needle Position” button.

The needle is incorrectly installed. Correctly install the needle.

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.

The stitch is not sewn correctly.

The thread tension is incorrect.

Adjust the tension of the upper thread.

The thread is tangled, for example, in the bobbin case.

Remove the tangle thread. If the thread is tangled in the bobbin case, clean the race.

The feed dogs are lowered.

The stitch is too short.

Slide the drop feed lever to the right

(as seen from the rear of machine).

Lengthen the stitch length.

The fabric does not feed.

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.

The thread is tangled, for example, in the bobbin case.

Remove the tangled thread. If the thread is tangled in the bobbin case, clean the race.

Reference page 29 page 39 page 40 page 40 page 180 page 180 page 29

– page 23 page 32 page 40 page 68 page 57 page 180 page 108 page 57 page 68 page 180

Troubleshooting 185

APPENDIX

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

Symptom Probable Cause

The sewing lamp does not come on.

The sewing lamp is damaged.

The machine is not turned on.

Nothing appears in the LCD.

Remedy

Contact your retailer or the nearest authorized service center.

Turn on the machine.

The brightness of the LCD is either too light or too dark.

Adjust the brightness of the LCD.

Reference

– page 17 page 190

Machine does not operate when

button is pressed.

An animation is displayed on the

LCD.

No pattern selected.

Embroidery unit

does not move.

Touch the LCD with your finger, and the animation will disappear.

Select a pattern. page 18 page 157

The embroidery unit is not set up correctly.

Set the embroidery unit up correctly.

The fabric is not fully stretched on the embroidery frame. The fabric is loose.

Stretch the fabric properly on the embroidery frame. page 148 page 152

Embroidery not

neatly done.

No stabilizer material is attached.

The thread is tangled and the bobbin case, etc., is plugged up.

The thread tension is incorrect.

Objects are placed near the carriage or embroidery frame.

Always use stabilizer material for embroidery with stretch fabrics, thin fabrics, fabrics with a loose weave and fabrics where stitches easily contract.

Remove the tangled thread. When the bobbin case is plugged up, clean the race.

Adjust the tension of the upper thread.

If the embroidery unit carriage or embroidery frame bumps into objects, the pattern will be misaligned. Do not place objects within the range of embroidery frame motion.

Material coming out of the embroidery frame is causing problems.

A heavy fabric is being embroidered, and the fabric is hanging off the table.

Stretch the fabric on the frame once again so that the material coming out of the embroidery frame does not cause problems, rotate the pattern and embroider.

If embroidery is done with the fabric hanging off the table, the embroidery unit movement will be impaired.

Support the fabric while embroidering.

The fabric is catching. It is pinched.

Stop the sewing machine and set the fabric up correctly.

The carriage was moved while the embroidery frame was being removed or attached during embroidery.

If the carriage is moved during the process, the pattern may be misaligned.

Be careful when removing or attaching the embroidery frame. page 151 page 180 page 171 page 149

–

186

Error messages

When erroneous operations are performed messages and advice on operation will be displayed on the LCD.

Follow what is displayed. The message may disappear if the operation is performed correctly. The message will disappear if is pressed while the message is displayed.

Error Message Probable Cause

There is a possibility that the data for the selected pattern is corrupted.

Either the “Start/Stop” button or the “Reverse/Reinforcement Stitch” button was pressed at a screen other than the sewing screen.

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”. You have selected a pattern for which width control cannot be used.

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

Upper thread broken.

Upper thread not set up correctly.

Upper thread has run out.

CAUTION

Be sure to rethread the machine. If you press the “Start/Stop” button without rethreading the machine, the thread tension may be wrong or the needle may break and cause injury.

You tried to create a design with too many points with the My Custom

Stitch function.

The machine is deleting a previously saved pattern while in embroidery edit mode.

The “Start/Stop” button was pressed while the foot controller was connected. You tried to use the foot controller for embroidery.

While embroidering, data is written to the “Removable Disk” in the connected computer or data is deleted from the “Removable Disk”.

The “Start/Stop” button was pressed before the editing was completed with the My custom stitch function.

on the LCD was pressed when no card was inserted.

Troubleshooting 187

APPENDIX

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

Error Message Probable Cause

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, “Reverse/Reinforcement Stitch” button or

“Thread Cutter” button was pressed while the presser foot was raised.

You tried to combine more than 70 decorative stitches, satin stitches, cross stitches or combined utility stitches.

The memory is full and the stitch or pattern cannot be saved.

You pressed the back key or the utility stitch key or the embroidery key while a pattern was selected.

You changed the stitch pattern settings, and then tried to save them by pressing the manual memory key.

You tried to select an embroidery pattern or change the layout when the needle was down.

The machine is turned on while the needle is lowered and the embroidery unit is attached.

This message is displayed when the embroidery unit is trying to initialize while the embroidery foot is lowered.

When 13 or more patterns are in “Removable Disk”, a pattern was being retrieved.

Retrieving the pattern

The “Reverse/Reinforcement Stitch” button, “Needle Position” button or “Thread Cutter” button was pressed while the bobbin winder shaft is moved to the right.

A pattern is being saved.

The “Start/Stop” button or “Reverse/Reinforcement Stitch” button was pressed when no pattern is selected.

Bobbin thread has run out.

Little bobbin thread remains.

188

Error Message Probable Cause

When the embroidery unit is attached.

You tried to set a number of characters that will not fit within the frame.

The upper thread has become tangled around the bobbin case, and the needle is bent and hitting the needle plate, etc., so the sewing machine stops (refer to page 182).

You tried a function that cannot be used when the embroidery unit is attached.

A card that cannot be used with this product has been inserted, and you tried to select a pattern from the card.

An embroidery pattern incompatible with this machine was selected.

The utility stitch or character stitch key was pressed while the embroidery unit is attached.

You try to retrieve a pattern downloaded as one for a different machine.

The machine is in embroidery mode and the combined character pattern is too large for the embroidery frame. You can rotate the pattern

90 degrees and continue combining characters.

Transmitting by USB

The “Start/Stop” button, the embroidery key, or the memory key is pressed in embroidery mode, but the embroidery unit is not attached.

The bobbin winder is winding the bobbin.

Troubleshooting 189

APPENDIX

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

Adjusting 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. In such a case, perform the following operation.

Turn off the sewing machine.

Turn on the sewing machine while pressing anywhere on the screen.

Operation beep

Each time a key is pressed you will hear one beep. If an incorrect operation is performed you will hear two or four beeps.

■ If a key is pressed (correct operation)

One beep sounds.

■ If an incorrect operation is performed

Two or four beeps sound.

■ If the machine locks up, for example, because the thread is tangled

The sewing machine beeps for four seconds and the machine automatically stops.

Be sure to check for the cause of the error, and correct it before continuing to sew.

c d

Turn off the sewing machine, then turn it on again.

190

Press (Back key).

Canceling 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.

The initial screen appears again.

The LCD comes on.

Press panel.

(Settings key) on the operation

X The settings screen appears.

Press (Next page key) three times.

Press OFF for the buzzer.

X The screen for changing the beep setting appears.

Troubleshooting 191

APPENDIX

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

Upgrading Your Machine’s Software

You can use a computer to download software upgrades for your sewing machine.

Visit our website at www.brother.com for notification of available updates.

Note z There are two upgrade files. Be sure to download both files successively.

Memo z When the machine's software is upgraded, saved combinations of character and decorative stitches are erased. However, saved embroidery patterns are not erased.

z While the software is being upgraded, the buzzer will not sound when a key is pressed.

While holding (Settings key) pressed, turn on the machine.

The following screen appears.

When the following screen appears, the first upgrade file is downloaded.

Plug the USB cable connectors into the corresponding USB ports on the computer and on the machine.

The “Removable Disk” icon appears in “My

Computer” on the computer.

Copy the first upgrade file to “Removable

Disk”.

Copy the second upgrade file to “Removable

Disk”.

When the screen shown in step e

appears again, press .

The message “Saving the upgrade file. Do not turn main power to OFF.” appears.

When the following screen appears, upgrading is completed.

X The message “Connected to PC. Do not disconnect the USB cable.” appears.

When the screen shown in step a

appears again, press .

X The message “Saving the upgrade file. Do not turn main power to OFF.” appears.

192

Note z If an error occurred, an error message appears. At this time, turn the machine off, and then start the procedure again from step a

Disconnect the USB cable, and turn the machine off, then on again.

Index

Numerics

1/4 inch quilting foot ........................................... 10

106

1/4 inch quilting foot with guide ...................................10

A accessories ............................................................... 8

10 adjustable zipper/piping foot .................................... 9

99 adjusting layout ..........................................................169

adjusting stitch length ...................................................57

adjusting stitch width ....................................................56

adjusting thread tension ................................................57

air vent .........................................................................12

appliqué .....................................................................103

appliqué pattern selection ...........................................167

appliqué stitch ............................................................103

attaching presser foot holder .........................................44

attaching stabilizer material ........................................151

attributes .......................................................................19

automatic reverse/reinforcement stitches .......................59

automatic thread cutting ...............................................60

B back key .......................................................................14

bar tack stitch .............................................................111

basic sewing .................................................................48

basic stitching ...............................................................83

basting stitch .................................................................83

beep ...........................................................................190

blind hem stitch ............................................................85

bobbin ............................................................................9

bobbin case ........................................................... 9

164 bobbin case removal ...................................................180

bobbin cover ................................................................12

bobbin installation ........................................................27

bobbin thread, pulling up .............................................37

bobbin threading ..........................................................27

bobbin winder ..............................................................11

bobbin winding ............................................................23

bobbin winding thread guide and pretension disk .. 11

25 button guide plate .........................................................89

button sewing ...............................................................92

buttonhole lever ............................................................12

buttonhole sewing ........................................................88

buttonhole stitching ......................................................87

buzzer ........................................................................190

C care ............................................................................180

changing sewing direction ............................................62

character stitches ................................................. 75

126 character storage .........................................................176

characters, retrieving ...................................................176

checking needle ............................................................40

cleaning bobbin case ..................................................180

cleaning brush ................................................................9

cleaning machine surface ...........................................180

combining patterns .....................................................130

concealed seams ...........................................................94

country thread ..............................................................19

crazy quilt stitching .....................................................105

cross stitches ........................................................ 75

126 cuffs ..............................................................................45

curve sewing .................................................................62

custom stitches ...........................................................137

cutting thread ................................................................54

cutting thread automatically ..........................................60

cylindrical pieces ..........................................................45

D darning .......................................................................113

darning stitch ..............................................................111

decorative satin stitches ....................................... 75

126 decorative stitches & patterns ............................... 75

126 deleting saved pattern .................................................134

design examples .........................................................140

designing stitch patterns ..............................................137

E elastic tape ..................................................................101

embroidering ..................................................... 142

165 embroidering pattern ..................................................165

embroidering steps ......................................................144

embroidery bobbin thread ....................................... 9

10 embroidery card slot .....................................................12

embroidery cards ........................................................163

embroidery character selection ...................................160

embroidery data ..........................................................175

embroidery fabric preparation .....................................151

embroidery foot installation ........................................145

embroidery foot removal .............................................147

embroidery frame .......................................................152

embroidery frame installation .....................................155

embroidery frame removal ..........................................156

embroidery key .............................................................14

embroidery pattern selection .......................................157

embroidery pattern types ............................................157

embroidery sets ........................................................ 9

10 embroidery sheets .......................................................153

embroidery threads .....................................................142

embroidery unit connector slot .....................................11

embroidery unit installation ........................................148

embroidery unit removal .............................................150

error messages ............................................................187

even seam allowance ....................................................64

examples of designs ....................................................140

extra spool pin ......................................................... 9

34 eyelet punch ...................................................................9

eyelet stitching ............................................................115

Upgrading Your Machine’s Software / Index 193

APPENDIX

— — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — fabric positioning ..........................................................50

fagoting .......................................................................119

fagoting stitch .............................................................118

feed dog position switch ...............................................12

feed dogs ......................................................................12

flat bed attachment .......................................................11

foot controller .......................................................... 9

51 foot controller jack ........................................................12

frame pattern selection ................................................162

fraying, preventing ........................................................79

free-arm sewing ............................................................45

free-motion quilting ....................................................108

front view .....................................................................11

G general sewing procedures ............................................48

grid sheet set ...................................................................9

H handle ..........................................................................12

handwheel ....................................................................12

hard case ........................................................................9

heirloom stitching .......................................................123

help key ................................................................. 14

21 horizontal stitching .....................................................116

I inserting a piping ........................................................100

installing bobbin ...........................................................27

J joining ........................................................................122

joining stitch ...................................................... 103

118

K knee lifter ................................................................. 9

65 knee lifter mounting slot ........................................ 11

L layout adjustment .......................................................169

LCD ..................................................................... 14

158

LCD button .................................................................159

LCD messages .............................................................187

LCD operation ..................................................... 18

158 leather/vinyl fabrics .......................................................64

M machine surface cleaning main power switch maintenance memory key

...............................................................180

manual needle threading

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

mirroring stitches

My Custom Stitch

...........................................180

................................................ 12

..............................................33

..........................................................61

........................................................137

N needle bar thread guide ................................................12

needle condition ...........................................................40

needle plate ..................................................................12

needle plate cover ........................................................12

needle plate marking ....................................................65

needle position button ..................................................13

needle position, changing .............................................84

needle replacement ......................................................40

needle set .......................................................................9

needle threader .............................................................32

needle threader lever ....................................................11

needle threading ...........................................................32

needle types, sizes & uses .............................................39

needles .........................................................................38

next page key ................................................................14

non stick foot ........................................................... 9

O open toe foot ..................................................................9

operation beep ............................................................190

operation buttons ............................................ 11

51 operation keys ..................................................... 14

158 operation panel ...................................................... 11

14 operation problems .....................................................182

operations .....................................................................21

optional accessories ......................................................10

overcasting stitches ................................................ 79

P pant legs .......................................................................45

parallel stitches .............................................................34

part names & functions .................................................11

patchwork .......................................................... 103

105 pattern combinations ..................................................130

pattern embroidery .....................................................165

pattern realignment .....................................................134

pattern repetition ........................................................131

pattern retrieving .........................................................133

pattern sewing ............................................................126

pattern size .................................................................127

pattern storage ............................................................133

pattern, deleting ..........................................................134

piecing ........................................................................105

piecing straight stitch ..................................................103

piping inserting ...........................................................100

plug ..............................................................................17

positioning fabric ..........................................................50

power cord, jack, switch & supply ................................17

power supply jack .........................................................12

power switch ................................................................12

preparations for embroidering .....................................142

presser foot ...................................................................12

presser foot holder ........................................................12

presser foot holder installation ......................................44

presser foot holder removal ...........................................44

presser foot lever .................................................... 11

12 presser foot pressure dial ...............................................12

presser foot replacement ...............................................42

previous page key .........................................................14

pulling up bobbin thread ..............................................37

194

Q quick reference guide .....................................................9

quilt stitching ..............................................................103

quilting .......................................................................107

quilting foot ..................................................................10

quilting guide ....................................................... 10

108 quilting stippling .........................................................103

quilting stitch ..............................................................103

stitch length adjustment ................................................57

stitch selection ................................................ 49

75 stitch settings ................................................................68

stitch type selection screen ...........................................18

stitch types ....................................................................75

stitch width adjustment .................................................56

stopping embroidering ................................................173

straight stitch ...........................................68

105 stretch fabrics ....................................................... 64

101 stretch stitch ................................................................101

R race ............................................................................180

realigning pattern ........................................................134

reinforcement stitching ........................................ 53

111 release button .............................................................150

removing presser foot holder .........................................44

repeating patterns .......................................................131

replacing needle ...........................................................40

replacing presser foot ....................................................42

resewing .....................................................................172

retrieving pattern .........................................................133

reverse stitching ............................................................53

reverse/reinforcement stitch button ........................ 13

53 reverse/reinforcement stitches, automatic ......................59

T thick fabrics ..................................................................63

thin fabrics ....................................................................64

thread cutter .......................................................... 11

55 thread cutter button ............................................... 13

54 thread cutting ................................................................54

thread cutting, automatic ..............................................60

thread guide cover ........................................................11

thread guide disk ..........................................................12

thread guide plate .........................................................11

thread spools ................................................................29

thread tension adjustment .................................... 57

171

Threading .....................................................................30

threading bobbin ..........................................................27

threading needle ...........................................................32

threading needle manually ............................................33

tips ................................................................................62

top cover ......................................................................11

touch panel ...................................................................14

trial sewing ...................................................................62

triple stretch stitch ................................................ 83

111 troubleshooting ...........................................................182

turning machine on/off ..................................................17

twin needle .............................................................. 9

34 twin needle sewing .......................................................34

S safety instructions ...........................................................1

satin stitch length, changing ........................................128

satin stitches ........................................................ 75

126 satin stitching ..............................................................109

saving patterns ................................................... 133

176 scallop stitch ...............................................................118

scallop stitching ..........................................................120

scissors ...........................................................................9

screwdriver .....................................................................9

seam allowance, even ...................................................64

seam ripper .............................................................. 9

90 securing stitching ..........................................................53

selecting embroidery patterns .....................................157

selecting stitches ............................................. 49

75 settings key ...................................................................14

sewing basics ................................................................48

sewing direction change ...............................................62

sewing machine help key ..............................................14

sewing speed controller ..........................11

110 shell tuck stitch .................................................. 118

121 side cutter .....................................................................81

size .............................................................................127

smocking ....................................................................120

smocking stitch ...........................................................118

solving operation problems .........................................182

spool cap ........................................................................9

spool net .................................................................. 9

25 spool of thread ..............................................................29

spool pin .........................................................................9

stabilizer material .......................................................151

start/stop button ..................................................... 13

51 step pattern .................................................................129

stippling ......................................................................103

stitch density ...............................................................127

stitch guide foot ....................................................... 9

U upgrading ...................................................................192

upper thread .................................................................29

upper thread spool ........................................................29

upper thread tension .....................................................57

USB cable .............................................................. 9

177

USB port connector ............................................. 12

177 utility stitch key .............................................................14

utility stitch selection screen .........................................18

utility stitches ......................................................... 68

W walking foot ..................................................................10

winding bobbin ............................................................23

wing needle ................................................................123

Z zigzag stitches ............................................. 80

101

103 zigzag width adjustment ...............................................56

zipper sewing ...............................................................94

zipper stitching .............................................................99

Index 195

English

885-U11

XE0535-001

Printed in China

Key features

Computerized sewing and embroidery machine
Large color touchscreen
Built-in stitches and embroidery designs
Easy-to-use interface
Built-in tutorials
Automatic needle threader
Drop-in bobbin
LCD display
Built-in lighting
Extension table

Frequently asked questions

A sewing machine is used to sew fabric together, while an embroidery machine is used to create decorative designs on fabric. The NV1200 is a combination sewing and embroidery machine, so it can do both.

The NV1200 can sew a variety of fabrics, including cotton, linen, silk, wool, and denim.

The maximum sewing speed of the NV1200 is 850 stitches per minute.

The NV1200 comes with a 25-year limited warranty.

GETTING READY

SEWING BASICS

UTILITY STITCHES

EMBROIDERY

APPENDIX

Computerized Sewing and Embroidery Machine

Operation Manual

Federal Communications Commission (FCC)

Declaration of Conformity (For USA Only)

Important Safety Instructions

DANGER

WARNING

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

IMPORTANT

FOR USERS IN AUSTRALIA AND NEW ZEALAND

Contents

GETTING READY 15

SEWING BASICS 47

UTILITY STITCHES 67

EMBROIDERY 141

APPENDIX 179

Introduction

Sewing Machine Features

Accessories

Included accessories

Optional accessories

Names of Machine Parts and Their Functions

Front view

Needle and presser foot section Right-side/rear view

Operation buttons

Operation panel

1 GETTING READY

Turning the Machine On/Off

Power supply precautions

Turning on the machine

Turning off the machine

LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) Operation

Viewing the LCD

Changing the machine settings

Checking machine operating procedures

Winding/Installing the Bobbin

Bobbin precautions

Winding the bobbin

Installing the bobbin

Upper Threading

About the spool of thread

Threading the upper thread

Threading the needle

Threading the needle manually

(without using the needle threader)

Using the twin needle

Pulling up the bobbin thread

Replacing the Needle

Needle precautions

Needle types and their uses

Checking the needle

Replacing the needle

Replacing the Presser Foot

Presser foot precautions

Replacing the presser foot

Removing and attaching the presser foot holder

Sewing Cylindrical Pieces

Free-arm sewing

2 SEWING BASICS

Sewing

General sewing procedure

Selecting stitching

Positioning the fabric

Starting to sew

Securing the stitching

Cutting the thread

Setting the Stitch

Adjusting the stitch width

Adjusting the stitch length

Adjusting the thread tension

Useful Functions

Automatically sewing reverse/ reinforcement stitches

Automatically cutting the thread

Mirroring stitches

Useful Sewing Tips