Jones Brother 651 Sewing Machine Instruction Manual

The Jones Brother 651 is a versatile mechanical sewing machine featuring straight stitch, zigzag stitch, buttonhole function, reverse stitching, adjustable stitch length and width, built-in needle threader, free arm capability, built-in light, and multiple presser feet. Powered by 120V AC, 60Hz. 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 Guide 7. Maintenance and Care 8. Accessory Usage 9. Safety Information 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Mechanical sewing head, built-in stitch patterns, free arm, accessory compartment, foot pedal, power cord, and instruction manual.

FeatureDescription
Stitch Selection DialSelects straight stitch, zigzag, and decorative patterns
Stitch Length ControlAdjusts stitch length from 0-4mm
Stitch Width ControlAdjusts zigzag width from 0-5mm
Reverse Stitch LeverReinforces stitching at beginning and end
Built-in Needle ThreaderAssists with threading needle
Free ArmRemovable extension table for cylindrical sewing
Built-in LightIlluminates sewing area
Bobbin WinderAutomatically winds bobbin
Presser Foot PressureAdjustable for different fabric types
Foot PedalControls sewing speed

Unpacking and Setup

Carefully unpack all components and place on stable surface.

  1. Remove machine from packaging: Lift machine by base, not handwheel.
  2. Attach extension table: Slide into position until it clicks.
  3. Install foot pedal: Connect to machine port and place on floor.
  4. Connect power: Plug into 120V AC 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 care. Ensure stable work surface.

First-Time Operation

Prepare machine for initial use with practice fabric.

  1. Thread machine: Follow threading diagram on machine.
  2. Insert bobbin: Place bobbin in case with thread unwinding counterclockwise.
  3. Select straight stitch: Set stitch selection dial to straight stitch position.
  4. Set stitch length: Adjust to medium setting (2.5mm).
  5. Practice sewing: Use scrap fabric to test machine operation.
  6. Adjust tension: Check stitch formation on both sides of fabric.

CAUTION! Keep fingers away from needle during operation.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Main controls located on front and side of machine.

Front Panel: Stitch selection dial, stitch length control, stitch width control, reverse stitch lever, built-in needle threader.

Stitch Selection: Straight stitch (1), zigzag (2-3), stretch stitches (4-6), decorative stitches (7-12). Stitch Length: 0-4mm (0 for darning, 4 for basting). Stitch Width: 0-5mm for zigzag and decorative stitches. Tension: Adjust upper thread tension dial (2-6 for most fabrics). Presser Foot Pressure: Adjust for light/heavy fabrics.

Stitch Selection Guide

Choose appropriate stitch for your sewing project.

  1. Straight Stitch: General sewing, seams (length 2.5mm)
  2. Zigzag Stitch: Finishing edges, stretch fabrics (width 3-4mm)
  3. Blind Hem Stitch: Nearly invisible hems
  4. Elastic Stitch: Sewing elastic, decorative effects
  5. Decorative Stitches: Ornamental sewing (width 5mm maximum)
  6. Buttonhole Stitch: 4-step process for perfect buttonholes

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

Maintenance and Care

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance.

  1. Daily: Brush out lint from bobbin area and feed dogs.
  2. Weekly: Oil moving parts with sewing machine oil (2-3 drops).
  3. Monthly: Clean tension discs with soft brush.
  4. Needle Replacement: Change needle after 8 hours of sewing.
  5. Storage: Cover machine when not in use.

WARNING! Unplug machine before cleaning or maintenance.

Accessory Usage

Included accessories enhance sewing capabilities.

AccessoryUsage
Zipper FootInstalling zippers, piping
Buttonhole FootCreating uniform buttonholes
Button Sewing FootAttaching buttons
Darning PlateFree-motion darning and quilting
Seam RipperRemoving stitches
BrushCleaning lint and debris

Safety Information

Always follow safety guidelines to prevent injury.

CAUTION! Never leave machine unattended while plugged in.

Regulatory Information

UL Listed: Complies with UL Standard 1270. FCC Part 15: Class B digital device. Copyright © 2025 Jones Brother Sewing Company. All rights reserved. For technical support, visit www.jonesbrothersewing.com or contact 1-800-555-7823.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Machine won't startPower connectionCheck power cord; ensure foot pedal is connected properly.
Thread breakingTension/needleReduce tension; check for burrs on needle; rethread machine.
Uneven stitchesThreading/tensionRethread upper and lower threads; adjust tension settings.
Needle breaksNeedle/fabricReplace bent needle; use correct needle for fabric type.
Fabric not feedingFeed dogsCheck feed dog position; clean feed dogs; adjust presser foot pressure.
Bobbin issuesWinding/insertionRewind bobbin evenly; ensure bobbin inserted correctly.

Service: 1-800-555-7823; www.jonesbrothersewing.com

Jones Brother 651 Sewing Machine Instruction Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025