brother xr1355 sewing machine manual

The Brother XR1355 is a versatile computerized sewing machine with 135 built-in stitches, automatic needle threader, drop-in bobbin system, LCD display, adjustable sewing speed, built-in needle plate thread guide, free arm capability, and multiple presser feet. Powered by standard household electrical outlet. 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 Functions 6. Stitch Selection 7. Threading and Bobbin 8. Presser Feet Guide 9. Maintenance & Cleaning 10. Safety Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Computerized stitch selection panel, automatic needle threader, drop-in bobbin system, free arm, LCD display, built-in stitches, accessory storage.

FeatureDescription
Built-in stitches135 stitch patterns including utility, decorative, and quilting
Automatic needle threaderEasy threading with push-button mechanism
Drop-in bobbinTop-loading bobbin system with clear cover
LCD displayShows selected stitch and settings
Free armRemovable extension table for cylindrical sewing
Adjustable speed controlSlider for slow to fast sewing speeds
Automatic thread cutterOne-touch thread cutting button
Needle up/downProgrammable needle position
Presser foot pressureAdjustable for different fabric types
Built-in needle plate thread guideQuick reference for threading

Unpacking and Setup

Remove all packaging materials and inspect contents. Place on stable, flat surface.

  1. Remove machine from box: Lift carefully using handles.
  2. Attach extension table: Slide into position until it clicks.
  3. Install foot controller: Plug into machine port.
  4. Connect power: Plug power cord into machine and wall outlet.
  5. Install needle: Loosen needle clamp screw, insert needle with flat side to back.
  6. Wind bobbin: Follow bobbin winding instructions.

WARNING! Machine is heavy; lift with both hands. Keep fingers away from needle area during setup.

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; follow initial setup procedures.

  1. Thread machine: Follow numbered threading path on machine.
  2. Use automatic needle threader: Push lever down and hook thread through.
  3. Insert bobbin: Place bobbin in case with thread unwinding counterclockwise.
  4. Select stitch: Use stitch selection dial or buttons.
  5. Test sew: Use scrap fabric to test stitch quality.
  6. Adjust tension: Start with default setting (4), adjust as needed.

CAUTION! Always turn off power when threading or changing needles.

Specifications

Controls and Functions

Access functions via control panel and buttons. Front Panel: Power switch, stitch selection buttons, LCD display, reverse stitch button, automatic thread cutter.

Control Panel: Stitch pattern buttons, stitch width/length adjustment, needle up/down button, speed control slider, start/stop button.

Stitch Selection: Utility stitches (straight, zigzag, stretch), decorative stitches, quilting stitches, buttonholes. Settings: Tension control dial, presser foot pressure dial, thread tension display. Memory: Stores frequently used stitch combinations.

Stitch Selection

135 built-in stitches organized by category.

  1. Basic stitches: Straight stitch (00-07), zigzag (08-15)
  2. Stretch stitches: For knit fabrics (16-25)
  3. Decorative stitches: Ornamental patterns (26-85)
  4. Quilting stitches: Piecing and quilting patterns (86-95)
  5. Buttonholes: 10 automatic one-step styles (96-105)
  6. Alphabet: Monogramming stitches (106-135)

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

Threading and Bobbin

Proper threading ensures smooth operation.

  1. Raise presser foot and needle to highest position.
  2. Follow numbered threading path: From spool pin through guides to needle.
  3. Use automatic needle threader: Push lever down, hook thread, release lever.
  4. Wind bobbin: Place spool on pin, thread through bobbin winding tension disk.
  5. Insert bobbin: Drop into case with thread pulling counterclockwise.
  6. Pull up bobbin thread: Hold needle thread, turn handwheel toward you.

WARNING! Ensure machine is off during threading. Keep fingers clear of needle.

Presser Feet Guide

8 included presser feet for various functions.

FootUseStitch Types
StandardGeneral sewingStraight, zigzag
ZipperZippers, pipingStraight
ButtonholeAutomatic buttonholesButtonhole
Button sewingAttaching buttonsButton stitch
OvercastingFinishing edgesOvercast
Blind hemInvisible hemsBlind hem
MonogrammingEmbroidery lettersSatin stitch
WalkingEven feedingAll stitches

Maintenance & Cleaning

Unplug machine before maintenance. Regular cleaning prevents lint buildup.

  1. Remove needle plate: Use screwdriver to loosen screws.
  2. Clean feed dogs: Use small brush to remove lint.
  3. Clean bobbin area: Remove bobbin case and clean housing.
  4. Oil machine: Use sewing machine oil on moving parts as directed.
  5. Replace needle: Change needle after every project or 8 hours of sewing.

CAUTION! Use only sewing machine oil. Do not spray cleaners directly on machine.

Safety Information

Always follow safety precautions to prevent injury.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Thread breakingIncorrect threading/tensionRethread completely; adjust tension; check for burrs on needle.
Skip stitchesWrong needle/damaged needleReplace needle; ensure correct needle for fabric type.
Bobbin thread bunchingIncorrect bobbin insertionRemove and reinsert bobbin; check threading path.
Machine not feedingPresser foot pressureAdjust presser foot pressure; clean feed dogs.
Uneven stitchesTension issuesAdjust upper and bobbin tension; rethread both.
Machine noisyLint buildup/needs oilClean lint from bobbin area; oil moving parts.
Needle breaksBent needle/wrong sizeReplace needle; ensure proper insertion; check for obstruction.

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

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

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