Bradbury Sewing Machine B2 Manual

The Bradbury Sewing Machine B2 is a versatile mechanical sewing machine designed for home use, featuring multiple stitch patterns, adjustable stitch length and width, built-in buttonholer, free arm capability, drop feed for darning and quilting, built-in light, reverse stitching, and easy threading system. Suitable for various fabrics from lightweight to medium-weight materials. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Unpacking and Setup 3. First-Time Operation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Stitch Selection and Adjustment 7. Maintenance and Cleaning 8. Accessories and Attachments 9. Safety Information 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Mechanical sewing head, built-in stitch patterns, free arm, bobbin winder, tension control, presser foot pressure adjustment.

FeatureDescription
Stitch PatternsStraight, zigzag, blind hem, stretch stitches
Stitch Length ControlAdjustable from 0-4mm
Stitch Width ControlAdjustable from 0-5mm
Built-in ButtonholerOne-step automatic buttonhole
Free ArmFor sewing sleeves and cuffs
Drop FeedFor darning and free-motion quilting
Reverse StitchFor securing seams
Built-in LightLED illumination of work area
Bobbin SystemTop-loading, class 15 bobbin
Presser FeetMultiple feet included for different applications

Unpacking and Setup

Carefully unpack all components and inspect for damage.

  1. Remove machine from packaging: Lift by base, not by handwheel.
  2. Attach foot control: Plug into machine socket.
  3. Install needle: Loosen needle clamp screw, insert needle with flat side to back.
  4. Wind bobbin: Place bobbin on winder, thread through tension disc.
  5. Insert bobbin: Drop bobbin into case with thread unwinding counterclockwise.
  6. Thread upper thread: Follow numbered threading path on machine.

WARNING! Machine is heavy; use proper lifting technique. Keep fingers away from needle area during setup.

First-Time Operation

Prepare machine for initial use with test fabric.

  1. Power connection: Plug foot control into power outlet.
  2. Select straight stitch: Turn stitch selector to straight stitch position.
  3. Set stitch length: Adjust to medium setting (2.5mm).
  4. Test stitching: Use scrap fabric to practice basic stitching.
  5. Adjust tension: Check both sides of fabric for balanced stitches.
  6. Practice reverse: Use reverse lever to secure beginning and end of seams.

CAUTION! Always turn handwheel toward you. Never force the machine.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Main controls located on front and side of machine.

Front Panel: Stitch pattern selector, stitch length dial, stitch width dial, reverse stitch lever, bobbin winder stop.

Side Controls: Handwheel, power and light switch, presser foot lifter, feed dog drop lever.

Tension Control: Upper thread tension dial (0-9 settings). Presser Foot Pressure: Adjustable for different fabric weights. Built-in Stitches: Straight, zigzag, blind hem, stretch stitches, decorative stitches.

Stitch Selection and Adjustment

Select appropriate stitches for different sewing projects.

  1. Straight Stitch: For seams and topstitching (length 2.5-3mm).
  2. Zigzag Stitch: For finishing edges and stretch fabrics (width 2-4mm).
  3. Blind Hem: For nearly invisible hems on garments.
  4. Stretch Stitches: For knit fabrics and elastic materials.
  5. Buttonhole: One-step automatic buttonhole with sensor.
  6. Decorative Stitches: For embellishment and creative projects.

Tip: Always test stitch settings on scrap fabric before starting your project.

Maintenance and Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

  1. Daily cleaning: Remove lint from bobbin area and feed dogs.
  2. Weekly oiling: Apply 1-2 drops of sewing machine oil to designated points.
  3. Needle replacement: Change needle after 8-10 hours of sewing.
  4. Bobbin case cleaning: Remove and clean bobbin case monthly.
  5. External cleaning: Wipe machine with soft, dry cloth.

CAUTION! Unplug machine before cleaning or maintenance. Use only recommended sewing machine oil.

Accessories and Attachments

Standard accessories included with Bradbury B2 machine.

AccessoryPurpose
Zigzag FootGeneral purpose sewing
Zipper FootInstalling zippers and piping
Buttonhole FootAutomatic buttonholes
Blind Hem FootInvisible hemming
Button Sewing FootAttaching buttons
Darning FootFree-motion darning and quilting
Additional BobbinsExtra bobbins for thread colors
NeedlesAssorted sizes for different fabrics
Seam RipperRemoving stitches
BrushCleaning lint and debris

Safety Information

Important safety precautions for safe machine operation.

WARNING! Never sew over pins - remove them before they reach the needle.

Warranty Information

Bradbury Sewing Machine B2 comes with limited warranty coverage.

Warranty Period: 25 years on mechanical parts, 2 years on electrical components.

Coverage: Defects in materials and workmanship under normal household use.

Exclusions: Damage from misuse, improper maintenance, commercial use, or unauthorized repairs.

Registration: Register online at www.bradbury-sewing.com/warranty within 30 days of purchase.

For warranty service, contact authorized Bradbury service center with proof of purchase.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Thread breakingIncorrect threading/tensionRethread completely; reduce tension; check for burrs on needle
Skip stitchesWrong needle/bent needleReplace needle; ensure correct needle type for fabric
Uneven stitchesTension imbalanceAdjust upper tension; reinsert bobbin properly
Machine jamsThread jam in bobbin areaRemove bobbin case; clean thoroughly; rethread
No powerPower connection issuesCheck outlet; ensure foot control plugged in; check fuse
Needle breaksWrong needle size/fabric pullUse correct needle; don't pull fabric; check needle installation
Poor buttonholesStabilizer missing/tension wrongUse stabilizer; adjust tension; clean buttonhole mechanism

Service Centers: Visit www.bradbury-sewing.com/service for authorized service locations.

Technical Support: 1-800-BRADBURY (1-800-272-3287)

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