Manual for Babylock BL9 Sewing Machine

The Babylock BL9 is a versatile electronic sewing machine featuring automatic needle threading, built-in stitches, LCD display, adjustable stitch length and width, drop-in bobbin system, automatic thread cutter, speed control slider, and multiple presser feet options. Designed for home sewing enthusiasts with easy-to-use controls and professional features. 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 7. Threading & Bobbin 8. Maintenance & Cleaning 9. Accessories 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: LCD display, automatic needle threader, drop-in bobbin system, built-in stitches, speed control, automatic thread cutter, multiple presser feet.

FeatureDescription
LCD DisplayShows selected stitch, length, width, and settings
Automatic Needle ThreaderEasy one-step needle threading
Drop-in Bobbin SystemTop-loading bobbin with clear cover
Built-in StitchesMultiple utility, decorative, and stretch stitches
Speed Control SliderAdjustable sewing speed from slow to fast
Automatic Thread CutterOne-touch thread cutting
Stitch Length/WidthAdjustable for custom sewing
Presser FeetMultiple included feet for different techniques
Needle Up/DownProgrammable needle position
Free ArmConvertible for sewing cuffs and sleeves

Installation & Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable surface at comfortable height.

  1. Remove packaging materials and protective covers from machine.
  2. Place machine on sturdy table or sewing cabinet.
  3. Connect foot control pedal to machine.
  4. Plug power cord into electrical outlet.
  5. Install needle and thread machine following threading diagram.
  6. Wind and insert bobbin into bobbin case.

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

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; follow basic setup procedures.

  1. Turn power switch to ON position.
  2. Select straight stitch using stitch selection dial.
  3. Set stitch length to medium (2.5-3.0).
  4. Place fabric under presser foot and lower foot lever.
  5. Gently press foot control to begin sewing.
  6. Practice on scrap fabric to familiarize with controls.

CAUTION! Always start with needle in highest position. Keep work area well-lit and organized.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Main controls: Power switch, stitch selection dial, stitch length dial, stitch width dial, reverse stitch button.

Front Panel: Stitch selection dial, stitch length dial, stitch width dial, reverse button, thread tension dial.

Stitch Length: 0-4mm adjustment for different fabrics. Stitch Width: 0-5mm for zigzag and decorative stitches. Thread Tension: Adjust for balanced stitches (usually 4-5 for medium weight fabrics). Reverse: Hold button for reinforcement stitching.

Stitch Selection

9 built-in stitches for various sewing applications.

  1. Straight Stitch: Basic sewing, topstitching
  2. Zigzag Stitch: Seam finishing, appliqué
  3. 3-Step Zigzag: Stretch fabrics, mending
  4. Blind Hem: Nearly invisible hemming
  5. Stretch Stitch: Knits and stretch fabrics
  6. Buttonhole: Automatic 4-step buttonhole
  7. Decorative Stitches: Multiple pattern options
  8. Overcast: Seam finishing
  9. Basting: Temporary stitching

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

Threading & Bobbin

Proper threading ensures smooth operation and quality stitches.

  1. Raise presser foot and raise needle to highest position.
  2. Place spool on spool pin and follow threading path marked on machine.
  3. Use automatic needle threader: Push lever down and hook thread through needle eye.
  4. Wind bobbin: Place empty bobbin on winder, guide thread through tension disc, press winder.
  5. Insert bobbin: Drop bobbin into case with thread unwinding counterclockwise.
  6. Pull bobbin thread up through needle plate.

WARNING! Ensure machine is turned off during threading. Always use same thread type in needle and bobbin.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

  1. Unplug machine before cleaning or maintenance.
  2. Remove needle plate and clean lint from feed dog area.
  3. Clean bobbin area with small brush provided.
  4. Oil machine according to manual instructions (specific points only).
  5. Replace needle regularly (every 8-10 hours of sewing).
  6. Cover machine when not in use to prevent dust accumulation.

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

Accessories

Included accessories for various sewing tasks.

AccessoryUse
Zigzag FootGeneral sewing, zigzag stitches
Zipper FootInstalling zippers, piping
Buttonhole FootCreating perfect buttonholes
Button Sewing FootAttaching buttons
Seam RipperRemoving stitches
BrushCleaning lint
Extra BobbinsAdditional thread colors
ScrewdriverNeedle plate removal

Regulatory Information

UL Listed: Complies with UL safety standards. FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with interference limits. Copyright © Babylock; all rights reserved. For technical support, contact Babylock customer service at 1-800-401-8153 or visit www.babylock.com. Made for household use.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Thread breakingIncorrect threading/tensionRethread completely; adjust tension; check for burrs on needle.
Skipped stitchesWrong needle/damaged needleReplace needle; ensure correct needle type for fabric.
Bobbin thread bunchingIncorrect bobbin threadingRemove and reinsert bobbin; check threading path.
Machine not feedingPresser foot pressureClean feed dogs; check presser foot is lowered.
Uneven stitchesTension issuesAdjust upper and bobbin tension; rethread both.
Noisy operationLint buildup/needs oilingClean lint from bobbin area; oil according to manual.
Needle hitting plateIncorrect needle installationReinsert needle with flat side to back; tighten securely.

Reset: Turn machine off and on to reset electronic controls.

Service: 1-800-401-8153; www.babylock.com

Manual for Babylock BL9 Sewing Machine © - All Rights Reserved 2025