Old Brother Sewing Machine Instruction Manual

The Old Brother Sewing Machine is a reliable mechanical sewing machine designed for home use, featuring multiple stitch patterns, adjustable stitch length and width, built-in needle threader, drop-in bobbin system, free arm capability, built-in LED light, and various presser feet for different sewing applications. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Mechanical sewing machine body, built-in stitch patterns, bobbin winder, stitch length/width dials, presser foot lever, reverse stitch button, free arm conversion.

Installation & Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable sewing table.

1. Remove machine from packaging: Carefully lift machine from box, remove all protective materials.
2. Position machine: Place on sturdy, level surface with adequate lighting.
3. Connect foot pedal: Plug foot controller into machine's pedal port.
4. Connect power: Plug power cord into machine and electrical outlet.
5. Install accessories: Attach standard presser foot and needle.

WARNING! Machine is heavy; lift with care using both hands. Ensure stable surface to prevent tipping.

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; follow setup procedure.

1. Thread machine: Follow threading guide printed on machine.
2. Wind bobbin: Use built-in bobbin winder with thread from spool.
3. Insert bobbin: Place bobbin in bobbin case following directional arrows.
4. Select stitch: Choose straight stitch for initial testing.
5. Test sew: Use scrap fabric to test machine operation.
6. Adjust tension: Check stitch formation and adjust tension if needed.

CAUTION! Keep fingers away from needle area during operation. Always turn off when not in use.

Specifications

• Machine Type: Mechanical sewing machine
• Stitch Patterns: 10 built-in stitches
• Stitch Length: 0-4mm adjustable
• Stitch Width: Up to 5mm for zigzag stitches
• Bobbin System: Top-loading drop-in bobbin
• Needle Positions: Left, center, right
• Maximum Sewing Speed: 800 stitches per minute
• Power Requirements: 110-120V, 60Hz
• Weight: 12.5 lbs (5.7 kg)
• Warranty: 25-year limited warranty

Controls and Settings

Main controls located on front and side of machine.

Front Panel: Stitch selection dial, stitch length dial, stitch width dial, reverse stitch button, power switch.

Operation: Stitch selection - turn dial to desired stitch pattern. Stitch length - adjust for shorter/longer stitches. Stitch width - adjust for wider/narrower zigzag. Reverse - hold button for backstitching. Tension control - adjust upper thread tension (3-5 for normal fabrics). Presser foot pressure - adjust for light/heavy fabrics.

Stitch Selection

10 built-in stitch patterns for various sewing applications.

1. Straight stitch: Basic sewing, seams (position 1)
2. Zigzag stitch: Finishing edges, appliqué (position 2)
3. Three-step zigzag: Stretch fabrics, mending (position 3)
4. Blind hem stitch: Nearly invisible hems (position 4)
5. Elastic stitch: Sewing elastic, decorative (position 5)
6. Shell stitch: Decorative edge finishing (position 6)
7. Scallop stitch: Decorative edge (position 7)
8. Multiple zigzag: Heavy decorative work (position 8)
9. Basting stitch: Temporary stitching (position 9)
10. Buttonhole stitch: Automatic 4-step buttonholes (position 10)

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

Threading & Bobbin

Proper threading essential for good stitch quality.

1. Raise needle: Turn handwheel to highest position.
2. Place spool: Put thread spool on spool pin.
3. Follow guide: Thread through numbered guides on machine.
4. Use needle threader: Pull thread through needle eye using built-in threader.
5. Wind bobbin: Place empty bobbin on winder, thread through tension disc.
6. Insert bobbin: Drop bobbin into case with thread unwinding counterclockwise.
7. Pull up bobbin thread: Hold upper thread, turn handwheel to bring up bobbin thread.

WARNING! Ensure machine is off when threading. Keep fingers clear of moving parts.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance.

1. Daily: Brush out lint from bobbin area and feed dogs.
2. Weekly: Oil hook race and moving parts (use sewing machine oil only).
3. Monthly: Clean tension discs with soft brush.
4. As needed: Replace needle after 8-10 hours of sewing.
5. Storage: Cover machine when not in use to prevent dust accumulation.

CAUTION! Unplug machine before cleaning or maintenance. Use only recommended sewing machine oil.

Accessories

Included accessories for various sewing tasks.

Safety Information

Important safety precautions for machine operation.

• Always disconnect power when changing needles, cleaning, or not in use
• Keep fingers away from moving needle and presser foot
• Do not sew over pins - remove before needle reaches them
• Use proper needle size and type for fabric being sewn
• Ensure adequate lighting in sewing area
• Keep machine clean and free of lint buildup
• Do not use damaged or bent needles
• Supervise children when machine is in use

WARNING! Serious injury may occur if safety precautions are not followed.

Troubleshooting

Service: For technical support, contact Brother customer service at 1-877-467-4289 or visit www.brother-usa.com