Brother XR 40 Sewing Machine Manual

The Brother XR 40 is a versatile computerized sewing machine featuring 40 built-in stitches, automatic needle threader, drop-in bobbin system, adjustable stitch length and width, built-in buttonholer, free arm capability, LCD display, speed control slider, and multiple presser feet. Powered by 120V AC, this machine is suitable for beginners and experienced sewers alike. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation & Setup 3. First-Time Operation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Stitch Selection & Functions 7. Basic Sewing Techniques 8. Maintenance & Cleaning 9. Accessories Included 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Computerized control panel, automatic needle threader, drop-in bobbin system, free arm, LCD display, built-in stitches, and multiple presser feet.

Feature	Description
Built-in Stitches	40 stitches including utility, decorative, and stretch
Automatic Needle Threader	Easy threading with push-pull mechanism
Drop-in Bobbin System	Top-loading bobbin with clear cover
LCD Display	Shows selected stitch and settings
Free Arm	Removable extension table for cylindrical sewing
Speed Control Slider	Adjustable sewing speed
Buttonhole Stitch	One-step automatic buttonhole
Stitch Length/Width	Adjustable for customization
Presser Feet	Multiple feet included for various techniques
Power Switch	Turns machine on/off

Installation & Setup

Unpack and inspect all contents. Place on stable, flat surface.

Remove packaging materials and protective covers from machine.
Attach power cord to machine and plug into 120V AC outlet.
Install foot controller: Connect to machine port.
Attach extension table: Snap into position on free arm.
Thread machine: Follow threading guide printed on machine.

WARNING! Keep fingers away from needle area during operation. Always turn off power when threading or changing needles.

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; follow setup procedure.

Thread upper thread: Use automatic needle threader for ease.
Wind bobbin: Place thread on spool pin and wind bobbin.
Insert bobbin: Drop bobbin into case with thread clockwise.
Select stitch: Use stitch selection dial or buttons.
Test sew: Use scrap fabric to test stitch settings.
Adjust tension: If needed, use tension dial for balanced stitches.

CAUTION! Always use proper needle for fabric type. Replace bent or dull needles immediately.

Specifications

Stitches: 40 built-in stitches
Stitch Width: Up to 7mm
Stitch Length: Up to 5mm
Buttonholes: One-step automatic
Needle Positions: Multiple positions available
Bobbin: Top-loading drop-in system
Presser Feet: Multiple included (zigzag, buttonhole, zipper, etc.)
Power Source: 120V AC, 60Hz
Machine Weight: Approximately 15 lbs
Warranty: 25-year limited warranty

Controls and Settings

Access functions via control panel and dials. Front Panel: Power switch, stitch selection dial, stitch width dial, stitch length dial, reverse stitch button.

LCD Display: Shows selected stitch number, recommended foot, and stitch settings.

Stitch Selection: Turn dial to choose from 40 stitches. Stitch Length: Adjust from 0-5mm. Stitch Width: Adjust from 0-7mm. Reverse Stitch: Reinforce seams. Needle Position: Adjust left/right/center. Tension Control: Adjust thread tension (3-6 normal range).

Stitch Selection & Functions

Stitch categories: Utility stitches (straight, zigzag, stretch), decorative stitches, buttonhole stitches.

Straight Stitch: Basic sewing (stitch 1)
Zigzag Stitch: Finishing edges (stitch 2)
Blind Hem Stitch: Nearly invisible hems (stitch 3)
Stretch Stitches: For knit fabrics (stitches 4-6)
Decorative Stitches: Embellishment (stitches 7-30)
Buttonhole Stitch: Automatic one-step (stitch 31)

Tip: Refer to stitch guide for recommended settings and presser feet.

Basic Sewing Techniques

Fundamental sewing operations for common projects.

Straight Seam: Use straight stitch with seam guide.
Zigzag Finish: Prevent fabric fraying.
Buttonhole: Automatic one-step function.
Zipper Installation: Use zipper foot.
Gathering: Use longer stitch length.
Darning: Free-motion sewing with darning foot.
Quilting: Even feed with walking foot.
Blind Hem: Nearly invisible hem finish.

WARNING! Always lower presser foot before sewing. Never pull fabric through machine.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Unplug machine before cleaning and maintenance.

Daily: Remove lint from bobbin area and feed dogs.
Weekly: Oil hook race and moving parts (use sewing machine oil only).
Monthly: Clean tension discs and thread path.
As needed: Replace needles regularly.

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

Accessories Included

Standard Presser Foot A
Zipper Foot E
Buttonhole Foot R
Button Sewing Foot M
Overcasting Foot G
Monogramming Foot N
Blind Stitch Foot R
Walking Foot
Seam Ripper/Lint Brush
Extra Bobbins (4)
Needle Set
Screwdriver

Regulatory Information

UL Listed: Complies with UL safety standards. FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with interference limits. Copyright © Brother Industries, Ltd. For support, visit www.brother-usa.com or contact 1-877-467-4289. 25-year limited warranty applies to chassis; 5 years for electronic components.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Machine won't start	Power connection	Check power cord; ensure machine is turned on; check foot controller connection.
Thread breaking	Tension/thread quality	Adjust tension; check thread path; use quality thread; replace needle.
Skipped stitches	Needle issues	Replace needle; ensure correct needle type; check threading.
Bobbin thread bunching	Bobbin threading	Re-thread bobbin; ensure bobbin inserted correctly; clean bobbin area.
Uneven stitches	Tension/fabric	Adjust upper and bobbin tension; use stabilizer for stretch fabrics.
Machine jams	Thread buildup	Turn off power; remove fabric; clean race hook area; re-thread machine.

Reset: Turn machine off and on to reset computerized functions.

Service: 1-877-467-4289; www.brother-usa.com