Brother VX 1120 Sewing Machine Manual

The Brother VX 1120 is a versatile electronic sewing machine featuring 20 built-in stitches, one-step auto buttonhole, automatic needle threader, drop-in bobbin system, adjustable stitch length and width, free arm capability, built-in LED light, and multiple presser feet. Designed for home sewing projects with easy-to-use controls and reliable performance. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Unpacking and Setup 3. Getting Started 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Functions 6. Stitch Selection 7. Basic Sewing Operations 8. Buttonhole Function 9. Maintenance & Cleaning 10. Safety Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Electronic stitch selection panel, automatic needle threader, drop-in bobbin system, free arm, built-in LED light, multiple presser feet.

FeatureDescription
Built-in stitches20 utility and decorative stitches including straight, zigzag, and stretch stitches
Auto buttonholeOne-step automatic buttonhole function
Needle threaderAutomatic needle threading system
Drop-in bobbinTop-loading bobbin system with clear cover
Free armRemovable extension table for sewing cuffs and sleeves
Stitch length/widthAdjustable stitch length and width controls
LED lightBuilt-in LED illumination for work area
Presser feetIncludes zigzag foot, buttonhole foot, zipper foot
Reverse stitchReverse sewing lever for reinforcing stitches
Power switchOn/off power control

Unpacking and Setup

Remove all packaging materials and inspect contents.

  1. Place machine on stable, flat surface at comfortable working height.
  2. Attach power cord to machine and plug into wall outlet.
  3. Install foot controller and connect to machine.
  4. Remove protective covers and accessories from packaging.
  5. Install needle following proper orientation.
  6. Wind and install bobbin in drop-in bobbin case.

WARNING! Keep fingers away from needle area during setup. Ensure machine is unplugged when installing accessories.

Getting Started

Basic setup for first-time use.

  1. Thread the machine: Follow numbered threading path on machine.
  2. Use automatic needle threader: Push lever down and hook thread through needle.
  3. Insert bobbin: Place bobbin in case with thread unwinding counterclockwise.
  4. Raise bobbin thread: Hold upper thread and turn handwheel toward you.
  5. Select stitch: Choose desired stitch pattern using selector dial.
  6. Test sew: Use scrap fabric to test stitch quality and tension.

CAUTION! Always turn off power when changing needles or performing maintenance.

Specifications

Controls and Functions

Main control panel includes stitch selection dial, stitch length dial, stitch width dial, reverse stitch lever.

Stitch Selection: Turn dial to select from 20 built-in stitch patterns. Stitch Length: Adjust from 0-4mm for stitch density. Stitch Width: Adjust from 0-5mm for zigzag and decorative stitches. Reverse Stitch: Hold lever to sew in reverse for reinforcement. Presser Foot Pressure: Adjustable for different fabric types.

Stitch Selection

Available stitch patterns and their applications.

  1. Straight Stitch: Basic sewing, topstitching (position 1)
  2. Zigzag Stitch: Overcasting, appliqué, decorative (position 2-5)
  3. Blind Hem: Nearly invisible hemming (position 6)
  4. Stretch Stitches: For knit fabrics (position 7-8)
  5. Decorative Stitches: Ornamental sewing (position 9-15)
  6. Buttonhole: Automatic one-step (position 16)

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

Basic Sewing Operations

Step-by-step sewing procedures.

  1. Position fabric under presser foot, lower presser foot lever.
  2. Depress foot controller to start sewing.
  3. Guide fabric gently; don't push or pull.
  4. Use reverse stitch at beginning and end of seams.
  5. Raise presser foot and remove fabric when finished.
  6. Cut threads using built-in thread cutter.

WARNING! Never place fingers near moving needle. Always use proper presser foot for each operation.

Buttonhole Function

Creating perfect buttonholes automatically.

  1. Select buttonhole stitch (position 16).
  2. Attach buttonhole foot and place button in foot holder.
  3. Position fabric under foot and lower presser foot.
  4. Depress foot controller - machine sews complete buttonhole automatically.
  5. Reinforce by sewing over beginning stitches.
  6. Cut buttonhole open using seam ripper or small scissors.

CAUTION! Always practice on scrap fabric first. Ensure button is properly sized in foot holder.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance for optimal performance.

  1. Unplug machine before cleaning.
  2. Remove needle plate and clean lint from bobbin area.
  3. Oil machine according to manual instructions (use only sewing machine oil).
  4. Wipe exterior with soft, dry cloth.
  5. Replace needle regularly (every 8-10 hours of sewing).
  6. Store machine covered when not in use.

CAUTION! Never use compressed air to clean machine. Use only recommended sewing machine oil.

Safety Information

Important safety precautions for sewing machine operation.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Machine not runningPower cord disconnectedCheck power connection; ensure foot controller is plugged in
Thread breakingIncorrect threading/tensionRethread machine; check needle condition; adjust tension
Skipped stitchesBent/dull needleReplace needle; ensure proper needle installation
Uneven stitchesIncorrect tensionAdjust upper and bobbin tension; rethread completely
Fabric not feedingPresser foot pressureAdjust presser foot pressure; clean feed dogs
Noisy operationLint buildupClean bobbin area and feed dogs; oil if necessary

Service: For technical support, contact Brother International at 1-877-276-8437 or visit www.brother-usa.com

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