antique brother sewing machine manual

The Antique Brother Sewing Machine is a classic mechanical sewing device featuring a durable metal frame, manual treadle operation, straight stitch capability, adjustable stitch length, built-in bobbin winder, reverse stitching function, and various presser feet attachments. Designed for heavy-duty fabrics with a standard needle system and built-in tension control. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Cast iron body, manual treadle mechanism, stitch length dial, tension control, bobbin case, presser foot lever, hand wheel, and built-in accessory storage.

Installation & Setup

Unpack and assemble components on stable surface.

1. Position machine: Place on sturdy table or sewing cabinet at comfortable height.
2. Install treadle: Connect treadle belt to hand wheel following alignment marks.
3. Oil points: Apply sewing machine oil to all designated oil ports.
4. Test operation: Rotate hand wheel to ensure smooth movement before threading.

WARNING! Machine is heavy; use proper lifting technique. Ensure stable surface to prevent tipping.

First-Time Operation

Prepare machine for initial use with proper threading and setup.

1. Thread upper path: Follow numbered guides from spool to needle.
2. Wind bobbin: Place empty bobbin on winder and thread through tension spring.
3. Insert bobbin: Place bobbin in case with thread pulling counterclockwise.
4. Test stitches: Use scrap fabric to adjust tension and stitch length.
5. Adjust presser foot: Set pressure appropriate for fabric thickness.

CAUTION! Keep fingers away from needle area during operation. Always turn hand wheel toward you.

Specifications

• Machine Type: Mechanical treadle sewing machine
• Stitch Type: Straight stitch only
• Stitch Length: 0-4mm adjustable
• Needle System: Standard 15x1 household needles
• Bobbin Type: Class 15 metal bobbins
• Presser Feet: Standard, zipper, buttonhole attachments included
• Tension Control: Dial adjustment 0-9
• Weight: Approximately 25 lbs (11.3 kg)
• Dimensions: 14"W x 6"D x 12"H (sewing head)

Controls and Adjustments

Primary controls: Stitch length dial, tension control, presser foot lever, reverse stitch lever.

Stitch Length: Turn dial clockwise for longer stitches, counterclockwise for shorter. Tension: Higher numbers for tighter tension (heavy fabrics), lower for lighter tension (delicate fabrics). Presser Foot: Lift lever to change fabric or remove/attach feet. Reverse: Engage lever while stitching to reinforce seams.

Additional adjustments: Bobbin tension (small screw on bobbin case), presser foot pressure (spring adjustment), needle position (fixed center).

Threading Instructions

Proper threading is essential for optimal performance.

1. Raise needle to highest position using hand wheel.
2. Place thread spool on spindle at top of machine.
3. Follow numbered guides: Through first thread guide, around tension discs, through take-up lever, down to needle.
4. Thread needle from front to back.
5. Pull bobbin thread up through throat plate by turning hand wheel.
6. Place both threads under presser foot toward back of machine.

Tip: Always thread with presser foot raised to open tension discs.

Stitch Settings

Straight stitch only machine with adjustable length and tension.

1. Basic stitching: Set stitch length to 2.5mm for general sewing.
2. Basting: Set to 4mm for temporary stitches.
3. Reinforcing: Use 1.5mm for strong seams on heavy fabrics.
4. Delicate fabrics: Use 2mm with lighter tension setting.
5. Reverse stitching: Engage reverse lever for 3-4 stitches at beginning and end of seams.
6. Gathering: Use longest stitch length (4mm) with strong thread.

WARNING! Do not force fabric while sewing. Let feed dogs move material naturally.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures longevity and optimal performance.

1. Daily: Brush out lint from bobbin area and feed dogs.
2. Weekly: Oil all designated points with sewing machine oil.
3. Monthly: Remove throat plate and clean feed dog mechanism.
4. As needed: Replace needle after 8-10 hours of sewing.
5. Storage: Cover machine when not in use to prevent dust accumulation.

CAUTION! Use only sewing machine oil. Never use household oils or lubricants.

Accessories

Standard accessories included with original machine.

Safety Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with interference limits for residential use. Copyright © Vintage Sewing Machines; trademarks of Brother Industries, Ltd. For support, visit www.brother-usa.com or contact 1-877-276-8437.

Troubleshooting

Professional Service: For major repairs, contact authorized Brother service center.

Support: 1-877-276-8437; www.brother-usa.com