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Brother 888-F42 Operation Manual
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Brother 888-F42 Operation Manual

Brother 888-F42 Operation Manual

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Operation Manual
Sewing Machine
Product Code: 888-F42
Be sure to read this document before using the machine.
We recommend that you keep this document nearby for future reference.

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Summary of Contents for Brother 888-F42

  • Page 1 Operation Manual Sewing Machine Product Code: 888-F42 Be sure to read this document before using the machine. We recommend that you keep this document nearby for future reference.

  • Page 3: Introduction

    Never operate this machine if it has a damaged cord or plug, if it is not working properly, has been dropped or damaged, or water is spilled on the unit. Return the machine to the nearest authorized Brother dealer for examination, repair, electrical or mechanical adjustment.
  • Page 4 For repair or adjustment: • If the light unit is damaged, it must be replaced by an authorized Brother dealer. • In the event a malfunction occurs or adjustment is required, first follow the troubleshooting table in the back of the Operation Manual to inspect and adjust the machine yourself.
  • Page 5 • Always replace the fuse cover. Never use plugs with the fuse cover omitted. • If the available electrical outlet is not suitable for the plug supplied with this equipment, you should contact your authorized Brother dealer to obtain the correct lead.

  • Page 6: What You Can Do With This Machine

    WHAT YOU CAN DO WITH THIS MACHINE WHAT YOU CAN DO WITH THIS MACHINE Basic operations After purchasing your machine, be sure to read this section first. This section provides details on the initial setup procedures as well as descriptions of this machine’s more useful functions. Page B-2 Chapter 1 GETTING READY To learn the operation of the principal parts and the screens...

  • Page 7: Table Of Contents

    CONTENTS CONTENTS Sewing INTRODUCTION..........i IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS ....i WHAT YOU CAN DO WITH THIS MACHINE ..iv Chapter 1 SEWING ATTRACTIVE FINISHES 2 Basic operations Sewing Tips ............2 Trial sewing................2 Changing the sewing direction..........2 Chapter 1 GETTING READY Sewing curves ................
  • Page 8 CONTENTS Appendix Chapter 1 MAINTENANCE AND TROUBLESHOOTING Care and Maintenance.......... 2 Restrictions on oiling .............. 2 Precautions on storing the machine ........2 Cleaning the LCD screen ............2 Cleaning the machine surface ..........2 Cleaning the race ..............2 Troubleshooting............

  • Page 9: Basic Operations

    Basic operations This section provides details on the initial setup procedures as well as descriptions of this machine’s more useful functions. Page number starts with “B” in this section. Chapter1 GETTING READY............B-2 Chapter2 STARTING TO SEW ..........B-34...

  • Page 10: Chapter 1 Getting Ready

    Names of Machine Parts and Their Functions GETTING READY Chapter Names of Machine Parts and Their Functions The names of the various parts of the machine and their functions are described below. Before using the machine, carefully read these descriptions to learn the names of the machine parts and their locations. Machine ■...

  • Page 11: Needle And Presser Foot Section

    Names of Machine Parts and Their Functions Needle and presser foot section Operation buttons 1 “Start/Stop” button Press the “Start/Stop” button to start or stop sewing. The machine stitches at a slow speed at the beginning of sewing while the button is pressed. When sewing is stopped, the needle is lowered in the fabric.

  • Page 12: Operation Panel And Operation Keys

    Names of Machine Parts and Their Functions Operation panel and operation keys Note • The operation keys of this machine are capacitive touch sensors. Operate the keys by directly touching them with your finger. The response of the keys varies according to the user.

  • Page 13: Using The Flat Bed Attachment

    Names of Machine Parts and Their Functions Using the flat bed attachment Pull the top of the flat bed attachment to open the accessory compartments. A presser foot accessory tray is stored in the accessory compartment of the flat bed attachment. 1 Storage space of the flat bed attachment 2 Presser foot accessory tray Basic operations B-5...

  • Page 14: Included Accessories

    90/14 2 needles: Ball point needle (gold colored) 2/11 needle Note • (For U.S.A. only) Foot controller: Model T This foot controller can be used on the machine with product code 888-F42. The product code is mentioned on the machine rating plate.

  • Page 15: Optional Accessories

    • All specifications are correct at the time of printing. Please be aware that some specifications may change without notice. • A variety of feet are available to enable different types of stitching and finishes. Visit your nearest authorized Brother dealer for a complete listing of optional accessories available for your machine.

  • Page 16: Turning The Machine On/Off

    If the cord or plug is damaged, take the machine to your authorized Brother dealer for repairs before continuing use. • Unplug the power cord if the machine is not to be used for a long period of time. Otherwise, a fire may result.

  • Page 17: Turning On The Machine

    Turning the Machine On/Off Turning on the machine Turning off the machine When you are finished using the machine, turn it off. In Make sure that the machine is turned off (the main addition, before transporting the machine to another location, power switch is set to “...

  • Page 18: Lcd

    Viewing the LCD When the power is turned on, the LCD comes on, and the following screen is displayed. The screen is changed using the keys below the LCD. Display Item Name Explanation Page Presser foot Shows presser foot to be used. B-30 Stitch preview Shows a preview of the selected stitch.

  • Page 19: Settings Screen

    Settings screen Press to change various sewing machine operations and sewing settings. * You can also move to next pages by pressing Press to select the next/previous items. * Press (Downward arrow) to select the next item. * Press (Upward arrow) to select the previous item. Press to change the value of the selected item.
  • Page 20 1 Select the needle stop position (the needle position for when the machine is not being operated) to be up or down. 2 Select either “1 Straight stitch (Left)” or “3 Straight stitch (Middle)” as the utility stitch that is automatically selected when the machine is turned on.

  • Page 21: Choosing The Display Language

    Adjust the input sensitivity by pressing the “-” or “+” Choosing the display language key. • The lower the setting, the less sensitive the keys will be; the higher the setting, the more sensitive the keys Press will be. The default setting is “3”. Select (Language) display.

  • Page 22: Winding/Installing The Bobbin

    Winding/Installing the Bobbin Winding/Installing the Bobbin Place the bobbin on the bobbin winder shaft so that the spring on the shaft fits into the notch in the bobbin CAUTION Press down on the bobbin until it snaps into place. • Only use the Bobbin (part code: SA156, SFB: XA5539-151) designed specifically for this machine.
  • Page 23 Winding/Installing the Bobbin Slide the spool cap onto the spool pin. Memo Slide the spool cap as far as possible to the right, as shown, with the rounded side on the left. • When using the spool as shown below, use the small spool cap, and leave a small space between the cap and the spool.
  • Page 24 Winding/Installing the Bobbin While holding the thread near the spool with your right While holding the thread with your left hand, wind the hand, as shown, pull the thread with your left hand, thread that was pulled out clockwise around the and then pass the thread behind the thread guide cover bobbin five or six times with your right hand.

  • Page 25: Installing The Bobbin

    Winding/Installing the Bobbin Press the “Start/Stop” button once to start winding the bobbin. Memo When the foot controller is plugged in, press down on • If the bobbin winder shaft is set to the right side, the foot controller. the needle will not move. (Sewing is impossible.) Slide the sewing speed controller back to desired sewing speed position.
  • Page 26 Winding/Installing the Bobbin Press CAUTION • If is pressed while the presser foot is raised, an error message appears. Lower the presser foot. → The screen changes, and all keys and operation • Be sure to hold down the bobbin with your finger and unwind the bobbin thread buttons are locked (except correctly, otherwise the thread may break or...
  • Page 27 Winding/Installing the Bobbin Note • If the thread is not correctly inserted through the tension-adjusting spring of the bobbin case, it may cause incorrect thread tension. 1 Tension-adjusting spring 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.

  • Page 28: Upper Threading

    Upper Threading Upper Threading Turn on the machine. CAUTION Raise the presser foot lever to raise the presser foot. • Three spool cap sizes are available, allowing you to choose a spool cap that best fits the size of spool being used. If the spool cap is too small for the spool being used, the thread may catch on the slit in the spool or the needle may break.
  • Page 29 Upper Threading Remove the spool cap that is inserted onto the spool While holding the thread lightly with your right hand, pin. pass the thread under the thread guide plate, and then pull it up. 1 Spool pin 2 Spool cap Place the spool of thread onto the spool pin.

  • Page 30: Threading The Needle

    Upper Threading Press Pull the end of the thread, which has been passed through the needle bar thread guide, to the left, then • If is pressed while the presser foot is raised, an pass the thread through the notch of the threader error message appears.

  • Page 31: Threading The Needle Manually (Without Using The Needle Threader)

    Upper Threading Lower the presser foot lever to lower the presser foot. Raise the presser foot lever, pass the end of the thread through and under the presser foot, and then pull out about 5 cm (approx. 2 inches) of thread toward the rear of the machine.

  • Page 32: Pulling Up The Bobbin Thread

    Upper Threading Reattach the bobbin cover. Pulling up the bobbin thread Insert the tab in the lower-left corner of the bobbin cover, and then lightly press down on the right side. When making gathers or before free motion quilting, first pull up the bobbin thread as described below.

  • Page 33: Using The Twin Needle

    Memo • Traditionally a twin needle is also used for creating pin tucks. Contact your nearest authorized Brother dealer to obtain the optional pin tuck foot for your machine (SA194, F069: XF5832-001). 1 Bobbin winder shaft Swing the spool pin toward the left so that it is CAUTION horizontal.
  • Page 34 Upper Threading Thread the upper thread in the same way that the Select (Twin needle) in the settings screen. upper thread for the left side was threaded. Set the twin needle mode to “ON.” 1 Thread guide cover • For details, refer to steps through “Threading the upper thread”...

  • Page 35: Fabric/Thread/Needle Combinations

    Fabric/Thread/Needle Combinations Fabric/Thread/Needle Combinations • Needles that can be used with this machine: Home sewing machine needles (size 65/9 - 100/16) * The larger the number, the larger the needle. As the numbers decrease, the needles get finer. • Thread that can be used with this machine: 30 - 90 weight * Never use thread of 20 weight or lower.

  • Page 36: Replacing The Needle

    Replacing the Needle Replacing the Needle Be sure to observe the following precautions concerning the handling of the needle. Failure to observe these precautions is Note extremely dangerous, for example, if the needle breaks and • Replace the needle in cases such as the four fragments are dispersed.
  • Page 37 Replacing the Needle Hold the needle with your left hand, and then use a screwdriver to turn the needle clamp screw toward you (counterclockwise) to remove the needle. • The needle clamp screw can also be loosened or tightened with the L-shaped (or disc-shaped) screwdriver.

  • Page 38: Replacing The Presser Foot

    Replacing the Presser Foot Replacing the Presser Foot Place a different presser foot below the holder so that the presser foot pin is aligned with the notch in the CAUTION holder. • 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.

  • Page 39: Removing And Attaching The Presser Foot Holder

    Replacing the Presser Foot Use the screwdriver to loosen the presser foot holder screw. Note Turn the screw toward the back of the machine • When a stitch is selected, the icon for the presser (counterclockwise). foot that should be used appears in the screen. Check that the correct presser foot is attached •...
  • Page 40 Replacing the Presser Foot Hold the presser foot holder in place with your right hand, and then tighten the screw using the screwdriver in your left hand. Turn the screw toward you (clockwise). 1 Screwdriver CAUTION • Be sure to securely tighten the presser foot holder screw, otherwise the presser foot holder may fall off and the needle may strike it, causing the needle to bend or break.
  • Page 41 Replacing the Presser Foot Basic operations B-33...

  • Page 42: Chapter 2 Starting To Sew

    Sewing STARTING TO SEW Chapter Sewing To select the right stitch pattern printed on a key, press the key twice. 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.
  • Page 43 Sewing Press the “Start/Stop” button to start sewing. CAUTION Guide the fabric lightly by hand. • Always use the correct presser foot. If the wrong presser foot is used, the needle may strike the presser foot and bend or break, possibly resulting in injury.

  • Page 44: Sewing Reinforcement Stitches

    Sewing Slowly depress the foot controller to start sewing. Note • When cutting thread such as nylon monofilament thread, or other decorative threads, use the thread cutter on the side of the machine. Memo • The speed that is set using the sewing speed controller will be the foot controller’s maximum sewing speed.

  • Page 45: Automatic Reinforcement Stitching

    Sewing Press (Reverse stitch button) or (Reinforcement Automatic reinforcement stitching stitch button). After selecting a stitch motif, turn on the automatic reinforcement stitching function before sewing, and the machine will automatically sew reinforcement stitches (or reverse stitches, depending on the stitch motif) at the beginning and end of sewing.
  • Page 46 Sewing Reverse stitch Reinforcement stitch button button When the automatic Machine sews 3 - 5 Machine sews 3 - 5 reinforcement reinforcement reinforcement stitching function is stitches while stitches while not active while holding the Reverse holding the selecting utility stitches other than stitch button.

  • Page 47: Setting The Stitch

    Setting the Stitch Setting the Stitch This machine is preset with the default settings for the stitch width and stitch length for each stitch. CAUTION However, you can change their settings or adjust them by following the procedure described in this section. •...

  • Page 48: Setting The Thread Tension

    Setting the Stitch ■ Upper thread is too loose Setting the thread tension If the upper thread is visible from the wrong side of the fabric, the upper thread is too loose. You may need to change the thread tension, depending on the Tighten the thread tension.

  • Page 49: Saving Stitch Settings

    Setting the Stitch Saving stitch settings Note • The next time that the same straight stitch is If you wish to save specific settings for a stitch so that they can selected, the stitch length is set to 2.0 mm. be used later, press after changing the settings to save the •...

  • Page 50: Useful Functions

    Useful Functions Useful Functions Automatically cutting the thread Memo • Programmed thread cutting will not be performed The machine can be set to automatically cut the threads at the if the “Start/Stop” button is pressed while sewing. end of the stitching. This is called “programmed thread Press (Reverse stitch button) or cutting”.

  • Page 51: Hands-Free Raising And Lifting Of The Presser Foot

    Useful Functions ■ Using the knee lifter Hands-free raising and lifting of the presser Stop the machine. foot Using the knee lifter, you can raise and lower the presser foot • Do not use the knee lifter while the machine is operating.

  • Page 52: Stitch Setting Chart

    Stitch Setting Chart 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. For free motion quilting, use free motion open toe quilting foot “O” (sold separately with some models). When (Automatic reverse/reinforcement key) is activated, the stitch will begin with reinforcement stitch.
  • Page 53 Stitch Setting Chart Stitch width Stitch length [mm (inch)] [mm (inch)] Stitch Presser Twin Reverse Stitch Stitch name Applications number foot needle button Auto. Auto. Manual Manual Narrow squared Buttonholes for light to 5.0 (3/16) 0.4 (1/64) Automatic buttonhole stitch medium weight fabrics 3.0 - 5.0 0.2 - 1.0...
  • Page 54 Stitch Setting Chart Stitch width Stitch length [mm (inch)] [mm (inch)] Stitch Presser Twin Reverse Stitch Stitch name Applications number foot needle button Auto. Auto. Manual Manual Heirloom buttonhole Buttonholes for heirloom and 6.0 (15/64) 1.5 (1/16) Automatic stitch stretch fabrics 3.0 - 6.0 1.0 - 3.0 reinforce-...

  • Page 55: Chapter1 Sewing Attractive Finishes

    Sewing This section describes procedures for using the various utility stitches as well as other functions. It provides details on basic sewing in addition to the more expressive features of the machine, such as sewing tubular pieces and buttonholes. Page number starts with “S” in this section. Chapter1 SEWING ATTRACTIVE FINISHES......

  • Page 56: Sewing Tips

    Sewing Tips SEWING ATTRACTIVE Chapter FINISHES Sewing Tips Trial sewing Sewing curves After you have set up the machine with the thread and needle Sew slowly while slightly changing the sewing direction to appropriate for the type of fabric being sewn, the machine sew around the curve.

  • Page 57: Sewing An Even Seam Allowance

    Sewing Tips ■ Aligning the fabric with a needle plate marking Slide the part that you wish to sew onto the free arm, and then sew from the top. The markings on the needle plate show the distance from the needle position of a seam sewn with the straight stitch (left needle position).

  • Page 58: Sewing Various Fabrics

    Sewing Various Fabrics Sewing Various Fabrics While holding zigzag foot “J” level, push in and hold Sewing thick fabrics the presser foot locking pin (black button on the left side), and lower the presser foot lever. ■ If the fabric does not fit under the presser foot The presser foot lever can be raised to two different positions.

  • Page 59: Sewing Thin Fabrics

    Sewing Various Fabrics Sewing thin fabrics Sewing leathers or vinyl fabrics When sewing thin fabrics such as chiffon, the stitching may When sewing fabrics that may stick to the presser foot, such as become misaligned or the fabric may not feed correctly. Move leather or vinyl fabrics, replace the presser foot with the the needle (be sure to use a fine needle) to the furthest left or walking foot* or non stick foot*.

  • Page 60: Sewing Hook-And-Loop Fastener Tape

    Sewing Various Fabrics Sewing hook-and-loop fastener tape CAUTION • Use only the adhesive-free hook-and-loop fastener tape which is designed for sewing. When the glue adheres to the needle or the bobbin hook race, it may cause malfunction. • If the hook-and-loop fastener tape is sewn with the thin needle (65/9-75/11), the needle may bend or break.

  • Page 61: Chapter 2 Utility Stitches

    Basic Stitching UTILITY STITCHES Chapter Basic Stitching ■ Changing the needle position Straight stitches are used for sewing plain seams. The needle position used as the baseline is different for the Stitch name Stitch Stitch number Presser foot straight stitch (left needle position) and the straight stitch (center needle position).

  • Page 62: Blind Hem Stitching

    Blind Hem Stitching Blind Hem Stitching Secure the bottoms of skirts and pants with a blind hem. Fold back the fabric inside along the basting. 1 Wrong side of fabric Stitch name Stitch Stitch number Presser foot 2 Right side of fabric Blind hem stitch 3 Edge of fabric 4 Desired edge of hem...
  • Page 63 Blind Hem Stitching ■ If the needle catches too much of the hem fold Position the fabric with the edge of the folded hem against the guide of the presser foot, and then lower The needle is too far to the left. the presser foot lever.
  • Page 64 Blind Hem Stitching Press the “Start/Stop” button to stop sewing when you are finished, and raise the presser foot and needle to remove the fabric by pulling it back. Note • Be sure to pull the fabric backward after finished sewing.

  • Page 65: Overcasting Stitches

    Overcasting Stitches Overcasting Stitches Sew overcasting stitches along the edges of cut fabric to prevent them from fraying. CAUTION • After the stitch width is adjusted, rotate the Sewing overcasting stitches using handwheel toward you (counterclockwise). overcasting foot “G” Check that the needle does not touch the presser foot.

  • Page 66: Sewing Overcasting Stitches Using The Side Cutter (Sold Separately With Some Models)

    Overcasting Stitches Sew along the edge of the fabric with the needle Remove the presser foot. dropping off the edge at the right. Hook the connecting fork of the side cutter onto the needle clamp screw. 1 Needle drop point 1 Connecting fork 2 Needle clamp screw Position the side cutter so that side cutter pin is aligned...
  • Page 67 Overcasting Stitches Adjust the stitch width (needle position) and the stitch Lower the presser foot lever, and then start sewing. length. Stitch Stitch width [mm (inch)] Stitch length [mm (inch)] 1.0 (1/16) - 4.0 (3/16) → A seam allowance is cut while the stitching is sewn. 3.5 (1/8) - 5.0 (3/16) •...

  • Page 68: Buttonhole Stitching/Button Sewing

    Buttonhole Stitching/Button Sewing Buttonhole Stitching/Button Sewing The names of parts of buttonhole foot “A”, which is used to Stitch name Stitch Stitch number Presser foot create buttonholes, are indicated below. Narrow rounded buttonhole stitch Narrow squared buttonhole stitch Keyhole buttonhole stitch Heirloom buttonhole stitch...
  • Page 69 Buttonhole Stitching/Button Sewing ■ If the button does not fit in the button guide • When lowering the presser foot, do not push in the front of the presser foot. plate Add together the diameter and thickness of the button, and then set the button guide plate to the calculated length.
  • Page 70 Buttonhole Stitching/Button Sewing Press (Thread cutter button) once. Raise the presser foot, and then remove the fabric. CAUTION Memo • When opening the buttonhole with the seam ripper, do not place your hands in the cutting • If the automatic thread cutting setting was direction, otherwise injuries may result if the selected before sewing, the machine will automatically cut the threads at the end of the...

  • Page 71: Button Sewing

    Buttonhole Stitching/Button Sewing It fits into the grooves, and then loosely tie it. Raise the presser foot lever, and then slide the feed dog position switch, located at the rear of the machine on the base, to (to the left as seen from the rear of the machine).
  • Page 72 Buttonhole Stitching/Button Sewing ■ Attaching a shank to a button Turn the handwheel toward you (counterclockwise) to check that the needle correctly goes into the two holes To sew the button with a shank, attach the button with of the button. space between it and the fabric, and then wind the thread by hand.

  • Page 73: Zipper Insertion

    Zipper Insertion Zipper Insertion Align the seam with the center of the zipper, and then Stitch name Stitch Stitch number Presser foot baste the zipper in place. Straight stitch (Middle) Inserting a centered zipper Stitching is sewn on both pieces of fabric butted against each other.

  • Page 74: Inserting A Side Zipper

    Zipper Insertion Topstitch around the zipper. Using a basting stitch, continue sewing to the edge of the fabric. 1 Basting stitching 2 Reverse stitches 3 Wrong side of fabric 4 End of zipper opening Press open the seam allowance from the wrong side of the fabric.
  • Page 75 Zipper Insertion Attach the presser foot holder to the right pin of zipper Close the zipper, turn over the fabric, and then baste foot “I”. the other side of the zipper to the fabric. If the stitching will be sewn on the right side, attach the presser foot holder to the left pin of the zipper foot.
  • Page 76 Zipper Insertion When you are about 5 cm (2 inches) from the end of the zipper, stop the machine with the needle lowered (in the fabric), and then raise the presser foot lever. Remove the basting stitching, open the zipper, and then continue sewing.

  • Page 77: Zipper/Piping Insertion

    Zipper/piping Insertion Zipper/piping Insertion A zipper and piping can be sewn in place. Slide the presser foot over to either the left or right feed dog. Stitch name Stitch Stitch number Presser foot Straight stitch (Left) * Adjustable zipper/piping foot (sold separately with some models) Inserting a centered zipper Refer to step...

  • Page 78: Inserting A Piping

    Zipper/piping Insertion Topstitch around the zipper. After sewing, turn them over. 1 Stitching 2 Right side of fabric 3 Basting stitching 4 End of zipper opening CAUTION • When sewing, be sure that the needle does not touch the zipper, otherwise the needle may bend or break.

  • Page 79: Sewing Stretch Fabrics And Elastic Tape

    Sewing Stretch Fabrics and Elastic Tape Sewing Stretch Fabrics and Elastic Tape Select a stitch. Stitch name Stitch Stitch number Presser foot Stem stitch Sew the elastic tape to the fabric while stretching the tape so that it is the same length as the fabric. 3 steps elastic zigzag While pulling the fabric behind the presser foot with stitch...

  • Page 80: Appliqué, Patchwork And Quilt Stitching

    Appliqué, Patchwork and Quilt Stitching Appliqué, Patchwork and Quilt Stitching Turn the fabric over, and then baste or fuse it onto the Stitch name Stitch Stitch number Presser foot fabric that it will be attached to. Zigzag stitch Blanket stitch Hand-look quilting stitch Quilting appliqué...

  • Page 81: Patchwork (Crazy Quilt) Stitching

    Appliqué, Patchwork and Quilt Stitching Turn the handwheel toward you (counterclockwise), Piecing and then begin sewing around the edge of the appliqué, making sure that the needle drops just outside of the appliqué. Sewing together two pieces of fabric is called “piecing”. The fabric pieces should be cut with a 6.5 mm (1/4 inch) seam allowance.
  • Page 82 Appliqué, Patchwork and Quilt Stitching ■ Piecing using the 1/4" quilting foot with guide Topstitching quilting, 1/8 inch Sew with the edge of the fabric aligned with the left side of (sold separately with some models) the presser foot end. This quilting foot can sew an accurate 1/4 inch or 1/8 inch seam allowance.

  • Page 83: Quilting

    Appliqué, Patchwork and Quilt Stitching When sewing with a seam allowance, align the left edge Baste the fabric to be quilted. of the narrow part of the 1/4" quilting foot with the fabric edge. Remove the presser foot and the presser foot holder. •...

  • Page 84: Free Motion Quilting

    Appliqué, Patchwork and Quilt Stitching ■ Using the quilting guide (sold separately with ■ Using free motion open toe quilting foot “O”* some models) or quilting foot* Use the quilting guide to sew parallel stitches that are * Sold separately with some models. equally spaced.
  • Page 85 Appliqué, Patchwork and Quilt Stitching Hold the quilting foot in place with your right hand, and tighten the presser foot holder screw using the CAUTION screwdriver with your left hand. • When using free motion quilting foot “C”, be sure to use the straight stitch needle plate and sew with the needle in middle (center) needle position.
  • Page 86 Appliqué, Patchwork and Quilt Stitching Attach free motion quilting foot “C” at the front with After sewing is finished, slide the feed dog position the presser foot holder screw aligned with the notch in switch lever to (to the right as seen from the rear the quilting foot.
  • Page 87 Appliqué, Patchwork and Quilt Stitching Tighten the screw with the included screwdriver. CAUTION • With free motion quilting, control the feeding speed of the fabric to match the sewing speed. If the fabric is moved faster than the sewing speed, the needle may break or other damage may result.

  • Page 88: Satin Stitching Using The Sewing Speed Controller

    Appliqué, Patchwork and Quilt Stitching ■ For models with Finished project Press After sewing is finished, slide the feed dog position switch lever to (to the right as seen from the rear of the machine) and turn the handwheel to raise the feed dogs.
  • Page 89 Appliqué, Patchwork and Quilt Stitching When you are finished sewing, turn off the stitch width control function. ■ For models with Set the stitch width control setting back to “OFF”. ■ For models with Press Memo • Although the stitching result differs depending on the type of fabric being sewn and the thickness of the thread being used, for best results, adjust the stitch length to between 0.3 and 0.5 mm (1/64 and...

  • Page 90: Reinforcement Stitching

    Reinforcement Stitching Reinforcement Stitching Reinforce points that will be subject to strain, such as sleeve Determine the desired length of the bar tack. holes, inseams and pocket corners. Set the button guide plate on buttonhole foot “A” to the desired length. (The distance between the markings on Stitch name Stitch Stitch number...

  • Page 91: Darning

    Reinforcement Stitching Pull down the buttonhole lever as far as possible. Darning 1 Buttonhole lever The buttonhole lever is positioned behind the bracket on the buttonhole foot. 1 Reinforcement stitching 1 Buttonhole lever 2 Bracket Determine the desired length of the darning. Gently hold the end of the upper thread in your left Set the button guide plate on buttonhole foot “A”...
  • Page 92 Reinforcement Stitching Position the fabric so that the needle is 2 mm (1/16 Raise the presser foot lever, remove the fabric, and inch) in front of the area to be darned. then cut the threads. Raise the buttonhole lever to its original position. Memo •...

  • Page 93: Decorative Stitching

    Decorative Stitching Decorative Stitching The utility stitches contain the following decorative Set the stitch width to 7.0 mm (1/4 inch). stitches. Sew with the center of the presser foot aligned along Stitch name Stitch Stitch number Presser foot the center of the two pieces of fabric. Smocking stitch Feather stitch Rick-rack stitch...

  • Page 94: Smocking

    Decorative Stitching Trim along the stitches. Select stitch Stitch between the straight stitches. • Be careful not to cut the stitches. Smocking Pull out the threads for the straight stitches. The decorative stitch created by stitching or embroidering over gathers is called “smocking”. It is used to decorate the front of blouses or cuffs.

  • Page 95: Heirloom Stitching

    Decorative Stitching Turn the fabric over so that the right side faces up, and then sew over the seam with the center of the presser CAUTION foot aligned with the seam. • 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.
  • Page 96 Decorative Stitching S-42...

  • Page 97: Appendix

    Appendix This section provides important information for operating this machine. Please read this section to find troubleshooting tips and pointers as well as how to keep your machine in the best working order. Page number starts with “A” in this section. Chapter1 MAINTENANCE AND TROUBLESHOOTING ..

  • Page 98: Chapter 1 Maintenance And Troubleshooting

    If problems occur, such as difficulty turning the handwheel or CAUTION an unusual noise, immediately stop using the machine, and contact your authorized Brother dealer or the nearest Brother • Unplug the power cord before cleaning the authorized service center.
  • Page 99 For a new bobbin case, contact your nearest Brother authorized service center. • Be sure that the bobbin case is correctly installed, otherwise the needle may break.

  • Page 100: Frequent Troubleshooting Topics

    You can solve most problems by yourself. If you need If the bobbin thread is incorrectly threaded, instead of the additional help, the Brother Solutions Center offers the appropriate tension being applied to the bobbin thread, it latest FAQs and troubleshooting tips. Visit us at is pulled through the fabric when the upper thread is pulled up.

  • Page 101: Tangled Thread On Wrong Side Of Fabric

    Troubleshooting ■ Remedy/check details Pull the thread to pass it through the slit in the needle plate cover, then cut it with the cutter. Remove the tangled thread, and then correct the upper threading. Remove the tangled thread. If it cannot be removed, cut the thread with scissors.

  • Page 102: Incorrect Thread Tension

    Troubleshooting While holding the thread lightly with your right hand, Incorrect thread tension pass the thread under the thread guide plate, and then pull it up. ■ Symptoms • Symptom 1: The bobbin thread is visible from the right side of the fabric. (Refer to illustration below) •...

  • Page 103: Fabric Is Caught In The Machine And Cannot Be Removed

    If the operation cannot be completed stitches. according to this procedure, instead of attempting to remove it forcefully, contact your nearest Brother authorized service • Refer to “Fabric/Thread/Needle Combinations” in the center. “Basic operations” section to check that a needle and thread appropriate for the fabric are being used.
  • Page 104 Remove the fabric and threads from the needle plate. If the fabric cannot be removed, even after completing 1 Bobbin case these steps, contact your nearest Brother authorized Use the cleaning brush or a vacuum cleaner mini service center. attachment to remove any lint or dust from the race Remove any threads in the race and around the feed and its surrounding area.
  • Page 105 • Never use bent needles. Bent needles can feed dogs operate correctly. easily break, possibly resulting in injuries. If the needle or feed dogs contact the needle plate, the machine may be malfunctioning; therefore, contact your nearest Brother authorized service center. Appendix A-9...

  • Page 106: If The Thread Becomes Tangled Under The Bobbin Winder Seat

    Troubleshooting Turn off the machine, and then install the bobbin and presser foot. CAUTION • Refer to “Installing the bobbin” and “Replacing the presser foot” in the “Basic operations” section. • Do not remove the bobbin winder seat even if the thread become tangled under the bobbin Correctly thread the machine.
  • Page 107 Troubleshooting Hold the thread end with your left hand, and wind off the thread clockwise with your right hand as shown below. Wind the bobbin again. Note • Make sure that the thread passes under the pretension disk of the bobbin-winding thread guide correctly.

  • Page 108: List Of Symptoms

    Cannot thread the needle. The needle threader hook is bent and does not Contact your authorized Brother dealer or the – pass through the eye of the needle. nearest Brother authorized service center. The needle threader lever cannot be moved or Contact your authorized Brother dealer or the –...
  • Page 109 Troubleshooting Symptom Probable Cause Remedy Reference Contact your authorized Brother dealer or the The sewing light is damaged. – nearest Brother authorized service center. The sewing light does not come on. (Light) is set to “OFF” in the settings Change the setting to “ON”.
  • Page 110 This is not a Upper thread scratch. Replace the needle plate, or consult your breaks. authorized Brother dealer. 1 Notch There are scratches around the opening in the Replace the presser foot, or consult your B-30 presser foot.
  • Page 111 Troubleshooting Symptom Probable Cause Remedy Reference Check the steps for threading the machine and rethread the machine. The thread is Upper threading is incorrect. Be sure that the presser foot is in the raised B-20, A-5 tangled on the position when threading the machine so that the wrong side of the upper thread sets properly in the upper tension.
  • Page 112 Presser foot pressure is set incorrectly for Adjust the presser foot pressure B-42 fabric. within the settings screen. The fabric feeds in Contact your authorized Brother dealer or the the opposite The feed mechanism is damaged. – nearest Brother authorized service center. direction.
  • Page 113 Troubleshooting Symptom Probable Cause Remedy Reference The presser foot that is used is not appropriate Attach the presser foot that is appropriate for B-31 for the type of stitch that you wish to sew. the type of stitch that you wish to sew. The thread tension is incorrect.

  • Page 114: Error Messages

    Troubleshooting Error messages If the “Start/Stop” button is pressed before the machine is correctly set up or if an operation is performed incorrectly, an error message appears in the LCD. Follow the instructions that appear. The message will disappear if is pressed while the message is displayed.

  • Page 115: Operation Beep

    If error message “F**” appears in the LCD while the machine is being used, the machine may be malfunctioning. Contact your nearest Brother authorized service center. Operation beep Nothing appears in the LCD Each time a key is pressed you will hear one beep. If an...

  • Page 116: Index

    Index Index Numerics Even seam allowance ..............S-3 1/4" quilting foot ............... S-28 1/4" quilting foot with guide ............S-28 Fagoting ................... S-39 Feed dog position switch ..........B-2 S-31 Feed dogs ................... B-3 Accessories Flat bed attachment ............B-2 included accessories ..............
  • Page 117 Index Needle threader lever ............B-2 B-22 Stitch selection ................. B-34 Non stick foot ................S-5 Stitch settings ................B-44 Stitch width adjustment ............B-39 Straight stitch ..........S-7 S-12 S-19 S-27 Stretch fabrics ................S-5 Operation beep ................ A-19 Operation buttons ..............
  • Page 120 Please visit us at where you can get product support and answers to frequently asked questions (FAQs). English 888-F42 Printed in Vietnam XG6265-001...

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