Cover1-4 PANTONE 285 C K Operation Manual Embroidery and Sewing Machine Product Code: 888-M20 Please visit us at http://s.brother/cpjab where you can get the support information (Instruction Videos, FAQs, etc.) for your Brother product. Brother SupportCenter is a mobile app that provides the support information (Instruction Videos, FAQs, etc.) for your Brother product. Visit the App Store or Google Play™ to download.
Cover2-3 PANTONE 285 C K
INTRODUCTION Thank you for purchasing this machine. Before using this machine, carefully read the “IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS”, and then study this manual for the correct operation of the various functions. In addition, after you have finished reading this manual, store it where it can quickly be accessed for future reference. IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS Please read these safety instructions before attempting to use the machine.
7 This machine is not a toy: • Your close attention is necessary when the machine is used by or near children. • The plastic bag that this machine was supplied in should be kept out of the reach of children or disposed of. Never allow children to play with the bag due to the danger of suffocation. • Do not use outdoors. 8 For a longer service life: • When storing this machine, avoid direct sunlight and high humidity locations.
FOR USERS IN THE UK, EIRE, MALTA AND CYPRUS ONLY IMPORTANT • In the event of replacing the plug fuse, use a fuse approved by ASTA to BS 1362, i.e. carrying the mark, rating as marked on plug. • Always replace the fuse cover. Never use plugs with the fuse cover omitted. • If the available electrical outlet is not suitable for the plug supplied with this equipment, you should contact your authorized Brother dealer to obtain the correct lead. Trademarks App Store is a service mark of Apple Inc.
CONTENTS CONTENTS Chapter 1 GETTING READY 5 Names of Machine Parts....................................... 5 Included accessories .............................................................. 7 Optional accessories .............................................................. 8 Turning the Machine On/Off................................ 9 LCD Operation ................................................... 10 Viewing the LCD ..................................................................
Names of Machine Parts Chapter 1 GETTING READY Names of Machine Parts ■ Main parts b 1 Flat bed attachment (page 7, 31) Thread cutter (page 19) Needle threader lever (page 19) Thread tension dial (page 29, 67) Handwheel Turn the handwheel toward you (counterclockwise) to raise and lower the needle to sew one stitch. c d e E Thread guide cover (page 14) F Handle f a Carry the machine by its handle when transporting.
Names of Machine Parts ■ Operation buttons ■ Operation panel and operation keys b a a c d e 1 “Start/Stop” button Press the “Start/Stop” button to start or stop sewing. The button changes color according to the machine’s operation mode. Green: The machine is ready to sew or is sewing. Red: The machine cannot sew. Orange: The machine is winding the bobbin thread, or the bobbin winder shaft is moved to the right side.
Names of Machine Parts Included accessories Included accessories may differ from the table below depending on the machine model you purchased. For more details on included accessories and their part codes of your machine, refer to the additional sheet “Included Accessories”. 1 Pull the top of the flat bed attachment to open the accessory compartment. 2. J 3. 4. N 5. I G GETTING READY 1. 6.
Names of Machine Parts Optional accessories Part Code No. The following are available as optional accessories to be purchased separately. 1. 2. 3. O 4. 7. 5. 8. 6. 9. 10. Americas 12. 14. Europe Others 1. Free motion open toe quilting foot “O” SA187 F061: XE1097-001 F061 F061CN 2. Quilting foot SA129 F005N: XC1948-052 F005N 3. Walking foot SA140 F033N: XG6623-001 F033N F033CN 4. 1/4" Piecing foot with guide SA185 F057: XC7416-252 F057 5.
Turning the Machine On/Off Turning the Machine On/Off WARNING Make sure that the machine is turned off (the main ”), and then plug the power cord into the power supply jack on the right side of the machine. a power switch is set to “ Insert the plug of the power cord into a household b electrical outlet.
LCD Operation LCD Operation Viewing the LCD Press a key with your finger to select the stitch pattern, to select a machine function, or to select an operation indicated on the key. The screen below appears when you press on the operation panel.
LCD Operation No. Display 5 Key Name Needle position setting Explanation Page Shows single or twin needle mode setting, and the needle stop position. : Single needle/down position : Twin needle/down position : Single needle/up position : Twin needle/up position 12 Stitch width Shows the stitch width of the currently selected stitch pattern. 29 7 Stitch length Shows the stitch length of the currently selected stitch pattern.
LCD Operation Settings screen Press to change the default machine settings (needle stop position, opening display, etc.). Press changed necessary settings. or , after you Memo • You can save the current settings screen image in a USB flash drive by pressing when the USB flash drive is inserted into the USB port. The files are saved in a folder labeled “bPocket”. 5 Select the embroidery frame to be used. 6 Select the center mark and grid lines that are displayed.
Winding/Installing the Bobbin Adjusting input sensitivity for operation keys Winding/Installing the Bobbin You can adjust the sensitivity of the operation keys to 5 levels. Display the settings screen to set desired level. b Display page 7 by pressing c Press [Start]. / 1 CAUTION to display the settings screen. • Only use the plastic bobbin that comes with this machine or bobbins of the same type (SA156/SFB: XA5539-151/SFB). The bobbin's height is 11.5 mm (approx. 7/16 inch).
Winding/Installing the Bobbin c 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. Memo • When using the spool as shown below, use the small spool cap, and leave a small space between the cap and the spool. 3 CAUTION • If the spool or the spool cap is not installed correctly, the thread may become tangled around the spool pin, causing the needle to break.
Winding/Installing the Bobbin Pass the thread under the hook on the bobbin winding e thread guide, and then wind it counterclockwise under the pretension disk. 1 h Turn on the machine. Press the “Start/Stop” button once to start winding the i bobbin. When the foot controller is plugged in, press down on the foot controller. 2 1 3 Note Note • Make sure that the thread is passed under the pretension disk.
Winding/Installing the Bobbin Insert the bobbin into the bobbin case so that the f thread unwinds to the left. Installing the bobbin Install the bobbin wound with thread. You can begin sewing immediately without pulling up the bobbin thread by simply inserting the bobbin in the bobbin case and guiding the thread through the slit in the needle plate cover.
Upper Threading While lightly holding down the bobbin with your right i hand (1), continue guiding the thread through the slit with your left hand (2). Then, cut the thread with the cutter (3). Upper Threading 1 CAUTION • Be sure to complete the bobbin threading correctly according to these instructions. If the thread is simply placed in the slit in the needle plate cover, the bobbin thread will not be correctly threaded, resulting in poor sewing performance or incorrect thread tension.
Upper Threading Pass the thread under the thread guide, then under the Press (Needle position button) once or twice to c raise the needle. f thread guide cover and to the front. → The needle is correctly raised when the mark on the handwheel is at the top, as shown below. Check the handwheel and, if this mark is not at this position, press (Needle position button) until it is. a b 1 Thread guide 2 Thread guide cover g 1 1 The thread unwinds to the front from the bottom.
Upper Threading Check that the needle and thread are compatible with k the needle threader. If they are compatible, continue Lower the needle threader lever on the left side of the o machine as much as possible to make the hook turn. with the next step. 1 • The needle threader can be used with machine needles 75/11 through 100/16. • The needle threader cannot be used with the wing needle or the twin needle.
Upper Threading Pulling up the bobbin thread If the threads will be pulled to create gathers or the thread at the beginning of sewing will be finished, for example, when free motion quilting, first pull up the bobbin thread. Refer to “Threading the upper thread” on page 17 to a thread the machine with the upper thread and thread the needle. Follow steps a to f “Installing the bobbin” on b page 16 for installing the bobbin and to insert the bobbin into the bobbin case.
Fabric/Thread/Needle Combinations Fabric/Thread/Needle Combinations - The combinations shown in the table provide a general guideline. Be sure to sew trial stitches on the actual number of layers and type of fabric to be used in your project. The machine needles are consumables. For safety and best results, we recommend replacing the needle regularly. For details on when to replace the needle, refer to “Checking the needle” on page 22.
Replacing the Needle c Replacing the Needle Press . → The screen changes, and all keys and operation buttons are locked (except CAUTION • Only use recommended home sewing machine needles. Use of any other needle may bend the needle or damage the machine. • Never use bent needles. Bent needles can easily break, possibly resulting in injuries. ).
Replacing the Presser Foot Replacing the Presser Foot c Raise the presser foot lever. Press the black button at the back of the presser foot d holder in order to remove the presser foot. CAUTION b Place the appropriate presser foot below the presser e foot holder so that the presser foot pin is aligned with the notch in the holder. 1 2 3 4 1 Note • When a stitch is selected, the icon for the presser foot that should be used appears in the screen.
Replacing the Presser Foot Removing and attaching the presser foot holder Hold the presser foot holder in place with your right d hand, and then tighten the screw using the screwdriver in your left hand. Turn the screw toward you (clockwise). Remove the presser foot holder when cleaning the machine or when installing a presser foot that does not use the presser foot holder, such as the walking foot and quilting foot. ■ Removing the presser foot holder a Press .
Sewing Chapter 2 SEWING BASICS Basic sewing Sewing CAUTION Prepare the appropriate needle and thread for the type a of fabric. (page 21) If necessary, replace the needle. (page 22) Wind thread onto a bobbin, and then install it into the b machine. (page 13) c Thread the upper thread. (page 17) Press d type. e on the operation panel and select the stitch Select a stitch. displays the previous screen, and next screen.
Sewing Set the fabric under the presser foot. Hold the fabric g and thread with your left hand, and rotate the handwheel counterclockwise or press (Needle position button) to set the needle in the sewing start position. CAUTION • Do not press (Thread cutter button) after the threads have been cut. Doing so could tangle the thread or break the needle and damage the machine. • Do not press (Thread cutter button) when there is no fabric set in the machine.
Sewing d Slowly depress the foot controller to start sewing. Combining Stitch Patterns Stitch patterns from the following categories can be combined. 2 Memo • The speed that is set using the sewing speed controller will be the foot controller’s maximum sewing speed. Release the foot controller to stop the machine. Sewing reverse/reinforcement stitches SEWING BASICS e Example: a Press . b Select the following stitch pattern.
Sewing → The stitch pattern turns continuous. Automatically cutting the thread The machine can be set to automatically cut the threads at the end of the stitching. This is called “programmed thread cutting”. If programmed thread cutting is set, automatic reverse/reinforcement stitching is also set.
Adjusting the thread tension Setting the stitch width/stitch length/“L/R Shift” ■ Setting the stitch width The stitch width (zigzag width) can be adjusted to make the stitch wider or narrower. This machine is preset with the default settings for the stitch width, stitch length and “L/R Shift” for each stitch. However, you can change any of the settings by pressing in the utility stitch screen. 2 ■ Setting the stitch length After changing the settings, press stitch screen.
Useful Sewing Tips ■ Upper thread is too tight If the bobbin thread is visible from the right side of the fabric, the upper thread is too tight. Loosen the thread tension. Useful Sewing Tips Sewing Tips Note • If the bobbin thread was incorrectly threaded, the upper thread may be too tight. In this case, refer to “Installing the bobbin” on page 16 and rethread the bobbin thread.
Useful Sewing Tips ■ Sewing cylindrical pieces Removing the flat bed attachment allows for free-arm sewing, making it easier to sew cylindrical pieces such as sleeve cuffs and pant legs. a Pull the flat bed attachment off to the left. 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.
Useful Sewing Tips d Sewing Various Fabrics Release the presser foot locking pin (black button). → The presser foot remains level, allowing the fabric to be fed. ■ Sewing thick fabrics If the fabric does not fit under the presser foot The presser foot lever can be raised to two different positions. If the fabric does not fit under the presser foot, for example, when sewing together thick fabrics, raise the presser foot lever to its highest position so that the fabric can be placed under the presser foot.
Useful Sewing Tips ■ Sewing leathers or vinyl fabrics ■ Sewing hook-and-loop fastener tape When sewing fabrics that may stick to the presser foot, such as leather or vinyl fabrics, replace the presser foot with the walking foot*, non stick foot* or roller foot*. * Items sold separately, please contact your authorized Brother dealer. 1 Leather 1 If the paper is positioned so that it does not cover the needle plate, the paper will not be sewn together with the fabric.
Useful Sewing Tips 34
Stitch Chart Chapter 3 VARIOUS STITCHES Stitch Chart Stitch (Presser No. Stitch name/Applications foot) ■ Utility stitches Memo • The stitches shown in the tables and some of the illustrations may differ slightly from the stitch patterns displayed in the LCD. • When any of the following stitches are selected, pressing (Reverse/Reinforcement stitch button) will sew reverse stitches.
Stitch Chart Stitch (Presser No. foot) (G) (J) (J) (J) Stitch name/Applications (S) (S) (S) (S) (J) Overcasting stitch Reinforcing of medium 1-17* stretch fabric and heavyweight fabric, decorative stitching Overcasting stitch Reinforcement of stretch 1-18* fabric or decorative stitching Overcasting stitch 1-19 Stretch knit seam With side cutter 1-20 Straight stitch while cutting fabrics 5.0 (3/16) 2.5 (3/32) 0.0 - 7.0 0.4 - 5.0 (0 - 1/4) (1/64 - 3/16) 4.0 (3/16) 4.0 (3/16) 0.0 - 7.0 0.4 - 5.
Stitch Chart Stitch (Presser No. Stitch name/Applications foot) (N) (N) (N) Stitch length (mm (inch)) Auto. Manual Serpentine stitch 2-17* Decorative stitching and attaching elastic 5.0 (3/16) 1.0 (1/16) 0.0 - 7.0 0.2 - 5.0 (0 - 1/4) (1/64 - 3/16) Hemstitching zigzag 3-01* Decorative hems, top stitching 6.0 (15/64) 3.0 (1/8) 0.0 - 7.0 0.4 - 5.0 (0 - 1/4) (1/64 - 3/16) Hemstitching 3-02 Decorative hems, lace attaching pin stitch 3.5 (1/8) 0.0 - 7.0 (0 - 1/4) 2.5 (3/32) 0.4 - 5.
Utility stitches ■ Decorative stitches Use monogramming foot “N”. The twin needle can only be used with satin stitch . In addition, be sure to attach zigzag foot “J” when using the twin needle.
Utility stitches Rotate the handwheel toward you (counterclockwise). d Check that the needle does not touch the presser foot. 1 The needle should not touch the center bar Blind Hem Stitching Secure the lower edge of skirts and pants with a blind hem. Memo Sew with the edge of the fabric against the presser foot e guide.
Utility stitches Unfold the edge of fabric, and position the fabric with e the wrong side facing up. 1 2 3 4 5 6 a c f b d a a Adjust the stitch width until the needle slightly catches k the fold of the hem. (page 29) 1 Needle drop point Wrong side of fabric Right side of fabric Edge of fabric Desired edge of hem Basting point Basting c When you change the needle drop point, raise the needle, and then change the stitch width.
Utility stitches Use chalk to mark on the fabric the position and length a of the buttonhole. Buttonhole sewing The maximum buttonhole length is about 28 mm (1-1/8 inches) (diameter + thickness of the button). 1 Marks on fabric 2 Buttonhole sewing b a Buttonholes are sewn from the front of the presser foot to the back, as shown below. Pull out the button guide plate of buttonhole foot “A”, b and then insert the button that will be put through the buttonhole.
Utility stitches Position the fabric with the front end of the buttonhole e mark aligned with the red marks on the sides of the h buttonhole foot, and then lower the presser foot lever. a 1 Mark on fabric (front) 2 Red marks on buttonhole foot 3 Upper thread A c b • When lowering the presser foot, do not push in the front of the presser foot. 1 Do not reduce the gap. Press (Thread cutter button) once. Raise the presser foot, and then remove the fabric.
Utility stitches ■ Sewing buttonholes on stretch fabrics When sewing buttonholes on stretch fabrics, use a gimp thread. Raise the presser foot lever, and then slide the feed dog b position switch, located at the rear of the machine on the base, to the machine). (to the left as seen from the rear of Hook the gimp thread onto the part of buttonhole foot a “A” shown in the illustration. b It fits into the grooves, and then loosely tie it. c Attach button fitting foot “M”.
Utility stitches CAUTION b Sew straight stitches up to the zipper opening. With the right sides of the fabric facing each other, sew reverse stitches after reaching the zipper opening. • When sewing, be sure that the needle does not touch the button, otherwise the needle may bend or break. h 1 Reverse stitches 2 End of zipper opening a Start sewing. b Set the sewing speed controller to the left (so that the speed will be slow). Using a basting stitch, continue sewing to the edge of c the fabric.
Utility stitches h Select a stitch. No. Appliqué, Patchwork and Quilt Stitching 1-03 ■ Appliqué stitching Stitch • For details, refer to “Stitch Chart” on page 35. CAUTION • When using zipper foot “I”, be sure to select the straight stitch (middle (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.
Utility stitches Sew the two pieces of fabric together so the stitch d pattern spans over both pieces. Use pins if necessary. Memo • To change the width of the seam allowance (needle position), adjust the stitch width. For details, refer to “Setting the stitch width” on page 29 and “Sewing an even seam allowance” on page 31. ■ Quilting CAUTION • Do not stitch over pins. Sandwiching batting between the top and bottom layers of fabric is called “quilting”.
Utility stitches ■ Free motion quilting 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. e Select a stitch. No.
Utility stitches Attach the quilting foot by positioning the pin of the d quilting foot above the needle clamp screw and aligning the lower-left of the quilting foot and the presser bar. a a c b c b ■ Satin stitching using the sewing speed controller A decorative stitch can be sewn by changing the stitch width of a satin stitch. If the machine is set so that the stitch width can be adjusted using the sewing speed controller, the stitch width can quickly and easily be adjusted.
Utility stitches a Other Stitching Applications ■ Elastic attaching 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).) 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.
Utility stitches ■ Darning e Pull down the buttonhole lever as far as possible. Gently hold the end of the upper thread in your left f hand, and then start sewing. After sewing is finished, raise the presser foot lever, g remove the fabric, and then cut the threads. h ■ Eyelet Stitching 1 Reinforcement stitching a Eyelets, such as those on belts, can be sewn. Determine the desired length of the darning. Set the button guide plate on buttonhole foot “A” to the desired length.
Utility stitches After removing the fabric, use the eyelet punch to cut a f hole in the center of the eyelet. a Attach monogramming foot “N”. b Select a stitch. No. 2-06 Stitch • For details, refer to “Stitch Chart” on page 35. • When using the eyelet punch, place thick paper or some other protective sheet under the fabric before punching the hole in the fabric. Stitch along the edge of the fabric, making sure not to c sew directly on the edge of the fabric.
Utility stitches Stitch between the straight stitches and pull out the e threads for the straight stitches. c Select a stitch. No. 2-07 2-08 2-09 Stitch • For details, refer to “Stitch Chart” on page 35. Turn the fabric over so that the right side faces up, and d then sew over the seam with the center of the presser foot aligned with the seam. ■ Shell tuck stitching The gathers that look like shells are called “shell tucks”.
Utility stitches Put the extra spool pin in the hole on the top of the d machine and put the spool of thread onto the extra needle when you select a satin stitch pattern. In this case, use zigzag foot “J”. spool pin. CAUTION 1 Thread spool 2 Extra spool pin a • When using the twin needle, be sure to select an appropriate stitch, otherwise the needle may break or the machine may be damaged. b j Start sewing. Thread the machine with the second upper thread.
Making adjustments d If the stitch pattern is bunched: Start sewing. Press in the [Fine Adjust Verti.] display. → The displayed value increases each time the button is pressed and the stitch pattern will lengthen. Making adjustments Your stitch pattern may sometimes turn out poorly, depending on the type or thickness of fabric, the stabilizer material used, sewing speed, etc.
Using The Memory Function Saving stitch patterns Retrieving stitch patterns You can save stitch patterns that you have customized in the machine's memory or USB flash drive. When retrieving stitch patterns from a USB flash drive, a insert the USB flash drive into the USB port on the Note • Do not turn the main power to OFF while the [Saving...] screen is displayed. You will lose the stitch pattern you are saving. a Retrieve stitch patterns saved in the machine's memory or USB flash drive.
Using The Memory Function 56
Embroidering Preparation Chapter 4 EMBROIDERY Attaching the Embroidery Foot Embroidering Preparation Follow the steps below to prepare the machine for embroidery. CAUTION Step 9 • Be sure to use embroidery foot when doing embroidery. Using another presser foot may cause the needle to strike the presser foot, causing the needle to bend or break and possibly cause injury. Step 3 a Press b Press Aim Step 6 Action → The screen changes, and all keys and operation ).
Embroidering Preparation While pressing in the lever on embroidery foot “Q” e with your finger, fit the embroidery foot bar over the Attaching the Embroidery Unit needle clamp screw. a b c 1 Embroidery foot bar 2 Needle clamp screw 3 Presser bar Secure embroidery foot “Q” with the presser foot f holder screw, making sure that embroidery foot “Q” is vertical. a CAUTION • Before attaching the embroidery unit, be sure to turn off the machine.
Embroidering Preparation d Turn on the machine. Hold the release button on the bottom left of the → A message appears in the screen. d embroidery unit, and slowly pull the embroidery unit to the left. Note • If [Opening Screen] is set [ON] within the settings screen, touch screen for the following message to appear. e Be sure that no objects or hands are near the embroidery unit and press . Embroidery Attractive Finishes → The carriage moves to its initial position.
Embroidering Preparation Hooping the fabric in the embroidery frame CAUTION • Use fabrics with a thickness of less than 2 mm (1/16 inch). Using fabrics thicker than 2 mm (1/16 inch) may cause the needle to break. • Always use a stabilizer material for embroidery when embroidering stretch fabrics, lightweight fabrics, fabrics with a coarse weave, or fabrics which cause pattern shrinkage. Otherwise, the needle may break and cause injury.
Embroidering Preparation Loosen the embroidery frame adjustment screw and a remove the inner and outer frames, placing the outer Tighten the adjustment screw while removing any slack g in the fabric by hand. The goal is to have a drum-like frame on a flat surface. sound when the fabric is struck lightly. Separate the inner and outer frame by removing inner frame upward. a b c 1 Inner frame 2 Outer frame 3 Adjustment screw Place the fabric with the stabilizer material on top of b the outer frame.
Embroidering Preparation Attaching the Embroidery Frame ■ Removing the embroidery frame a Raise the presser foot lever to raise the presser foot. Press the part of the embroidery frame holder in the Note • Wind and insert the bobbin before attaching the embroidery frame making sure to use the recommended bobbin thread. Check that there is enough thread in the bobbin. a Raise the presser foot lever to raise the presser foot. b Pass the embroidery frame under the presser foot.
Embroidering d Embroidering Press . ■ Copyright information The patterns stored in the machine 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 on pattern editing screen, refer to “Editing Patterns (Pattern Editing Screen)” on page 71. You can move the pattern, change the size of pattern, and perform many other editing operations.
Embroidering • After selecting a character if you would like to Memo change the character size press . The size changes each time you press the key, from large to medium to small. After the character size is changed, all characters on the same line will have the new character size. • If [Embroidery Frame Identification View] in the settings screen is set to [ON], the pattern can be edited in the screen as if that embroidery frame is attached. • If you make a mistake, press to erase the mistake.
Embroidering b From , press the key for the position that you want to check. Embroidering a pattern Embroidery patterns are embroidered with a change of thread after each color. Prepare embroidery thread of the color shown on the a screen. 1 1 Selected position 1 → The carriage will move to the selected position on the pattern. 1 Embroidery color order Memo • Either the thread color name or the thread number appears in this screen, depending on the setting selected in the settings screen.
Embroidering Lower the presser foot, then press the “Start/Stop” d button to start embroidering. After 5-6 stitches, press the “Start/Stop” button again to stop the machine. ■ Changing the thread color display You can display the name of the thread colors or embroidery thread number. Memo • Colors on the screen may vary slightly from actual spool colors. a Press and use or to display the following settings screen. Trim the excess thread at the end of the seam.
Embroidering ■ If the thread breaks or the bobbin runs out of thread during embroidering a Press the “Start/Stop” button to stop the machine. b Press and set the upper thread or bobbin thread. Adjusting thread tension The upper thread tension is changed using the thread tension dial. When doing machine embroidery, the tension dial should be set somewhere between 2 to 6.
Embroidering Embroidering the appliqué patterns When the color embroidering order display shows [ (APPLIQUE MATERIAL)], [ (APPLIQUE POSITION)] or [ (APPLIQUE)], follow the procedure below. ■ 2. Sewing the appliqué position on the base fabric a Sew the appliqué position.
Embroidering Using a frame pattern to make an appliqué You can use framed patterns of the same size and shape to create an appliqué. Embroider one pattern with a straight stitch and one pattern with a satin stitch. ■ Method 2 Select a straight stitch frame pattern, and embroider a the pattern onto the base fabric. ■ Method 1 Select a straight stitch frame pattern. Embroider the a pattern onto the appliqué material, then cut neatly around the outside of the shape.
Embroidering Split embroidery patterns Split embroidery patterns created with PE-DESIGN Ver.7 or later, or PE-DESIGN NEXT can be embroidered. With split embroidery patterns, embroidery designs larger than the embroidery hoop are divided into multiple sections, which combine to create a single pattern after each section is embroidered. For details on creating split embroidery patterns and for more detailed embroidery instructions, refer to the Instruction manual included with PE-DESIGN Ver.
Editing Patterns (Pattern Editing Screen) Display Editing Patterns (Pattern Editing Screen) No. 5 Rotate key When a pattern is selected in the pattern selection screen and Explanation Key Name is pressed, the pattern editing screen appears. After pressing any of the keys to edit the pattern, press to return to the previous screen. To finish all the editing, press Press this key to rotate the pattern. You can rotate a pattern one degree, ten degrees or ninety degrees at a time.
Editing Patterns (Embroidery Settings Screen) ■ Font editing screen Display Font editing screen appears by pressing editing screen. on the pattern No. Explanation Key Name 6 1 2 3 4 Split text key Press this key to split text between characters so that they can be edited separately. 5 7 8 6 Use to select where the pattern is to be separated, and then Display No. Explanation press to separate it. Any pattern that is split cannot be recombined.
Editing Patterns (Embroidery Settings Screen) Display No. Explanation Key Name 2 Rotate key d Use to align the needle and the mark on the fabric, press Press this key to rotate the entire pattern. You can rotate a pattern one degree, ten degrees or ninety degrees at a time. and begin embroidering the pattern. Press to return the pattern to its original position. 3 Embroidery key 4 Memory key 5 Trial key 6 Press this key to enter the embroidery screen.
Using the Memory Function Reposition the fabric in embroidery frame so that the g right side of the letter “C” will be partially inside the embroidery frame; being careful so letters remain straight and level. Then reattach frame again so that the remaining characters (“DEF”) can be embroidered.
Using the Memory Function Saving embroidery patterns Retrieving embroidery patterns You can save embroidery patterns that you have customized in the machine's memory or USB flash drive. Retrieve embroidery patterns saved in the machine's memory or USB flash drive. When retrieving the embroidery patterns from a USB Note • Do not turn the main power to OFF while the [Saving...] screen is displayed. You will lose the pattern you are saving.
Using the Memory Function 76
Care and Maintenance Chapter 5 APPENDIX Care and Maintenance CAUTION • Unplug the power cord before cleaning the machine, otherwise injuries or an electric shock may occur. 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.
Troubleshooting i Grasp the bobbin case, and then pull it out. Touch panel is malfunctioning If the screen does not respond correctly when you touch a key (the machine does not perform the operation or performs a different operation), follow the steps below to make the proper adjustments. j any lint and dust from the race and bobbin thread Use the cleaning brush or a vacuum cleaner to remove a power switch to OFF and back to ON.
Troubleshooting ■ Cause Upper thread tightened up ■ Symptom • The upper thread appears as a single continuous line. • The bobbin thread is visible from the right side of the fabric. (Refer to the illustration below.) • The upper thread has tightened up, and comes out when pulled. • The upper thread has tightened up, and wrinkles appear in the fabric. • The upper thread tension is tight, and the results do not change even after the thread tension is adjusted.
Troubleshooting The upper threading is incorrect. Return the thread tension dial to “4”, and then refer to “Tangled thread on wrong side of fabric” on page 79 to correct the upper threading. Cause 2 A needle and thread appropriate for the fabric are not being used. The machine needle that should be used depends on the type of fabric sewn and the thread thickness.
Troubleshooting Use the cleaning brush or a vacuum cleaner mini Remove any threads in the race and around the feed i attachment to remove any lint or dust from the race l dogs. and its surrounding area. m 1 Cleaning brush 2 Race Turn the handwheel to raise the feed dogs. Align the two screw holes in the needle plate with the n two holes at the needle plate mounting base, and then fit the needle plate onto the machine. b Lightly finger-tighten the screw on the right side of the o needle plate.
Troubleshooting Slowly turn the handwheel toward you c (counterclockwise), and look from all sides to check that the needle falls at the center of the opening in the needle plate. If the needle contacts the needle plate, remove the needle plate, and then install it again, starting with step m in “Removing the fabric from the machine” on page 80.
Troubleshooting Symptom, Cause/solution List of symptoms Check the following possible problems before requesting service. If the reference page is “*”, contact your authorized Brother dealer or the nearest Brother authorized service center. The LCD screen is fogged up. Condensation has formed on the LCD screen. • After a while, the cloudiness will disappear. – The operation keys do not respond, or the key response is too sensitive.
Troubleshooting Symptom, Cause/solution There are scratches around the opening in the needle plate. Reference * * There is a notch on the left side of the opening in the needle plate. This is not a scratch. a 1 Notch There are scratches around the opening in the presser foot. * There are scratches on the bobbin case. * A bobbin designed specifically for this machine is not used. 13 Upper threading is incorrect. 17 Bobbin is set incorrectly. 16 Presser foot is attached incorrectly.
Troubleshooting Symptom, Cause/solution Reference Skipped stitches Symptom, Cause/solution Reference Fabric being sewn with the machine cannot be removed. Machine is threaded incorrectly. 13, 17 Using improper needle or thread for the selected fabric. 21 Needle is turned, bent or the point is dull. 22 Needle is installed incorrectly. 22 Dust or lint has collected under the needle plate. 77 Thin or stretch fabrics are being sewn. • Attach stabilizer material to the fabric.
Troubleshooting Symptom, Cause/solution Reference Fabric was pulled, pushed or fed at an angle while it was being sewn. • Sew while guiding the fabric with your hands so that the fabric is fed in a straight line. 25 The thread is tangled, for example, in the bobbin case. 77 Embroidery pattern does not embroider correctly. Thread is twisted. 80 Thread tension is set incorrectly. 29 Fabric was not inserted into the frame correctly (fabric was loose, etc.).
Troubleshooting Error messages When erroneous operations are performed messages and advice on operation will be displayed on the LCD. Follow what is displayed. If you press or do the operation correctly while the error message is displayed, the message disappears. Error messages A malfunction occurred. Turn the machine off, then on again. This message is displayed if some malfunction occurs. Turn the machine off, then back on again. If this message continues to appear, the machine may be malfunctioning.
Troubleshooting Error messages Preventive maintenance is recommended. 16 Cause/solution Once this message appears, it is recommended to take your machine to an authorized Brother dealer or nearest Brother authorized service center for a regular maintenance check. Although this message will disappear and the machine will continue to function once you press , the message will display several more times until the appropriate maintenance is performed. 17 Raise the buttonhole lever.
Upgrading your machine’s software Operation beeps If a correct operation is performed, the machine beeps one time. If an incorrect operation is performed, the machine beeps two or four times. If the machine locks up, for example, because the thread is tangled, the machine continues to beep for four seconds, and then the machine automatically stops. Be sure to check for the cause of the error, and correct it before continuing to sew.
Index Index A Aligning the position .................................................................... 73 Appliqué ...................................................................... 45, 68, 69 B Ball point needle .......................................................................... Bar tack stitch .............................................................................. Basting stitch ................................................................................ Blind hem stitch ........
Index Thread color display .................................................................... Thread cutting ..................................................................... 26, Thread density ..................................................................... 11, Thread tension .............................................................. 29, 67, Transparent nylon thread .............................. 14, 15, 19, 21, Troubleshooting ................................................................
Cover2-3 PANTONE 285 C K
Cover1-4 PANTONE 285 C K Operation Manual Embroidery and Sewing Machine Product Code: 888-M20 Please visit us at http://s.brother/cpjab where you can get the support information (Instruction Videos, FAQs, etc.) for your Brother product. Brother SupportCenter is a mobile app that provides the support information (Instruction Videos, FAQs, etc.) for your Brother product. Visit the App Store or Google Play™ to download.
