Finesse 356 Sewing Machine User Manual

The Finesse 356 is a versatile computerized sewing machine featuring 356 built-in stitches, automatic needle threader, LCD display, adjustable sewing speed, built-in needle plate, drop feed for free-motion sewing, automatic thread cutter, and multiple presser feet. Powered by 120V AC, 60Hz. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Connecting Accessories 7. Basic Sewing Operations 8. Advanced Features 9. Care & Cleaning 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Computerized control panel, LCD display, automatic needle threader, built-in stitch patterns, bobbin winding system, free arm, accessory storage.

Feature	Description
LCD Display	Shows selected stitch, stitch length/width settings
Automatic Needle Threader	Easy threading with push-button operation
356 Built-in Stitches	Includes utility, decorative, and quilting stitches
Automatic Thread Cutter	One-touch thread cutting
Drop Feed	For free-motion sewing and quilting
Speed Control Slider	Adjustable sewing speed
Needle Up/Down	Programmable needle position
Bobbin Winding	Built-in bobbin winding system
Free Arm	For sewing sleeves and hard-to-reach areas
Presser Feet	Multiple included feet for different applications

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable sewing table.

Remove packaging materials and protective covers
Attach power cord to machine and plug into AC outlet
Install foot controller in designated port
Attach standard presser foot
Wind and insert bobbin following threading diagram
Thread upper thread using automatic needle threader

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

First-Time Setup

Power on machine; follow initial setup procedure.

Select language: Press SETTINGS button, choose preferred language
Set stitch defaults: Configure default stitch length and width
Test basic stitches: Try straight stitch and zigzag to ensure proper operation
Adjust tension: Test on scrap fabric and adjust as needed
Configure needle position: Set preferred needle up/down position

CAUTION! Always use proper needle for fabric type. Ensure machine is properly threaded before sewing.

Specifications

Stitch Selection: 356 built-in stitches
Stitch Width: Up to 7mm
Stitch Length: Up to 5mm
Sewing Speed: Up to 850 stitches per minute
Needle Positions: Adjustable left/right/center
Display: LCD with stitch preview
Automatic Features: Needle threader, thread cutter, bobbin winding
Presser Feet: 8 included feet plus accessory port
Power Source: 120V AC, 60Hz
Weight: 15.4 lbs (7 kg)

Controls and Settings

Access functions via control panel buttons and LCD display.

Main Controls: Power button, Start/Stop, Reverse, Needle Up/Down, Speed Control, Stitch Selection buttons.

Stitch Settings: Select stitch number, adjust length (0-5mm), adjust width (0-7mm). Utility: Straight stitch, zigzag, stretch stitches, buttonholes. Decorative: 300+ decorative and quilting stitches. Memory: Save favorite stitch combinations. Settings: Language, needle position, sound volume, automatic thread cutter.

Connecting Accessories

Various presser feet and accessories for different sewing applications.

Turn off machine before changing accessories
Align presser foot with holder and lower lever to lock
Connect optional knee lift if available
Install specialty feet: zipper, buttonhole, quilting, walking foot
Use accessory tray for storage of bobbins, needles, and feet

Tip: Always use the correct presser foot for the selected stitch to prevent damage.

Basic Sewing Operations

Step-by-step guide for fundamental sewing tasks.

Thread machine: Follow numbered threading path on machine
Wind bobbin: Place thread on spool pin, wind bobbin evenly
Insert bobbin: Drop-in bobbin system with clear cover
Select stitch: Choose from utility stitches 1-50
Adjust settings: Set appropriate length and width for fabric
Begin sewing: Use foot controller or Start/Stop button
Reverse stitching: Press reverse button to secure stitches
Cut threads: Use automatic thread cutter or manual cutter

WARNING! Never pull fabric while sewing - let feed dogs move fabric. Keep fingers away from moving needle.

Advanced Features

Utilizing the full capabilities of your Finesse 356.

Automatic Buttonholes: One-step buttonholes with sensor technology. Decorative Stitches: Access stitches 51-356 for embellishment. Memory Function: Save up to 10 stitch combinations. Mirror Imaging: Create symmetrical designs. Alphabet Stitches: Monogramming capabilities. Quilting Features: Even feed with walking foot, free-motion capability. Programmable Needle: Set stop position up or down.

Care & Cleaning

Regular maintenance for optimal performance.

Unplug machine before cleaning
Remove needle plate and clean lint from bobbin area
Use small brush to remove dust from feed dogs
Wipe exterior with soft, dry cloth
Oil moving parts as indicated in maintenance schedule
Replace needle regularly (every 8-10 hours of sewing)

CAUTION! Do not use compressed air for cleaning. Never oil electronic components.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with interference limits for residential use. Copyright © 2025 Finesse Sewing Company; all rights reserved. UL Listed for electrical safety. For technical support, visit www.finessesewing.com or contact 1-800-555-SEWING.

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	Re-thread machine; check tension settings; use quality thread.
Uneven stitches	Threading/tension	Re-thread upper and bobbin threads; clean race area; adjust tension.
Needle breaking	Bent needle/wrong size	Replace needle; ensure correct needle for fabric; check for obstruction.
Fabric not feeding	Feed dogs lowered	Raise feed dogs; clean feed dog area; check presser foot pressure.
Bobbin issues	Improper winding/insertion	Rewind bobbin evenly; ensure bobbin inserted correctly; check bobbin case.

Reset: Hold Settings button for 5 seconds to restore factory defaults.

Service: 1-800-555-SEWING; www.finessesewing.com