Pacesetter by Brother XL703 Sewing Machine Manual

The Pacesetter by Brother XL703 is a versatile mechanical sewing machine featuring 7 built-in stitches, 4-step buttonhole function, free arm capability, built-in thread cutter, adjustable stitch length and width, drop feed for free-motion sewing, built-in needle threader, and reverse sewing function. Powered by 120V AC, this machine is ideal for beginners and intermediate sewers with easy-to-use controls and reliable performance. 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 Guide 7. Buttonhole Function 8. Maintenance & Cleaning 9. Accessories Included 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Mechanical sewing machine with 7 built-in stitches, free arm, built-in thread cutter, and easy stitch selection dial.

FeatureDescription
Built-in stitches7 essential stitches including straight, zigzag, and decorative
4-step buttonholeEasy buttonhole creation in four simple steps
Free arm capabilityFor sewing cuffs, sleeves, and other cylindrical items
Built-in thread cutterConvenient thread cutting on the machine
Adjustable stitch lengthControl stitch length from 0-4mm
Adjustable stitch widthControl zigzag width from 0-5mm
Drop feed mechanismFor free-motion sewing and darning
Built-in needle threaderEasy needle threading assistance
Reverse sewing leverFor reinforcing stitches at beginning and end
Stitch selection dialEasy selection of all 7 built-in stitches

Installation & Setup

Unpack and inspect all contents. Place on stable, level surface.

  1. Remove machine from packaging: Remove all protective materials and foam.
  2. Install foot controller: Plug into machine and place on floor.
  3. Connect power: Plug power cord into machine and wall outlet.
  4. Install needle: Loosen needle clamp screw, insert needle with flat side to back, tighten screw.
  5. Wind bobbin: Follow bobbin winding instructions in manual.
  6. Thread machine: Follow threading path indicated on machine.

WARNING! Always unplug machine when not in use or when performing maintenance. Keep fingers away from moving parts.

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; test basic functions before starting projects.

  1. Select straight stitch: Turn stitch selection dial to straight stitch position.
  2. Practice stitching: Use scrap fabric to test machine operation.
  3. Adjust stitch length: Practice with different stitch length settings.
  4. Test zigzag stitch: Select zigzag stitch and practice width adjustments.
  5. Practice reverse stitching: Use reverse lever to reinforce stitches.
  6. Test buttonhole function: Follow 4-step buttonhole instructions.

CAUTION! Always start with needle in highest position. Never pull fabric while needle is in material.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Main controls located on front and side of machine. Stitch Selection Dial: Rotate to select desired stitch pattern. Stitch Length Dial: Adjust from 0-4mm. Stitch Width Dial: Adjust zigzag width from 0-5mm. Reverse Lever: Hold down for reverse stitching. Bobbin Winder: Located on top of machine. Tension Dial: Adjust thread tension (4-6 normal range).

Basic Settings: Straight stitch: Length 2.5mm, Width 0mm. Zigzag stitch: Length 2.0mm, Width 3.0mm. Buttonhole: Follow 4-step sequence. Always test settings on scrap fabric before sewing project.

Stitch Selection Guide

Seven built-in stitches for various sewing applications.

  1. Straight Stitch: Basic sewing, seams, topstitching
  2. Zigzag Stitch: Finishing edges, appliqué, stretch fabrics
  3. Blind Hem Stitch: Nearly invisible hems on garments
  4. Stretch Stitch: For knit and stretch fabrics
  5. Decorative Stitch 1: Light decorative finishing
  6. Decorative Stitch 2: Medium decorative pattern
  7. Decorative Stitch 3: Heavy decorative pattern

Tip: Always refer to fabric type when selecting stitches. Test on scrap fabric first.

Buttonhole Function

4-step manual buttonhole creation process.

  1. Step 1: Mark buttonhole position on fabric
  2. Step 2: Set stitch selection to buttonhole step 1 (left side)
  3. Step 3: Sew forward to desired buttonhole length
  4. Step 4: Set to step 2 (right side bar tack)
  5. Step 5: Set to step 3 (right side)
  6. Step 6: Set to step 4 (left side bar tack)
  7. Step 7: Cut buttonhole open with seam ripper

WARNING! Always use buttonhole foot and practice on scrap fabric first. Go slowly for precision.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

  1. Unplug machine before cleaning
  2. Remove needle plate and clean lint buildup
  3. Oil moving parts as recommended in manual
  4. Wipe exterior with soft, dry cloth
  5. Check needle regularly for damage
  6. Replace needle after 8-10 hours of sewing
  7. Store machine with cover when not in use

CAUTION! Never use compressed air to clean machine. Use only recommended sewing machine oil.

Accessories Included

Standard accessories provided with Pacesetter XL703.

AccessoryQuantityPurpose
General Purpose Foot1Basic sewing
Zigzag Foot1Zigzag and decorative stitches
Buttonhole Foot1Buttonhole creation
Darning Plate1Free-motion sewing
Bobbin (empty)3Thread storage
Needles3Replacement needles
Seam Ripper1Stitch removal
Brush1Lint cleaning
Screwdriver1Needle plate removal

Regulatory Information

UL Listed: Complies with UL safety standards. FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with interference limits for residential use. Copyright © 2025 Brother International Corporation; Pacesetter is a trademark of Brother International Corporation. For support, visit www.brother-usa.com or contact 1-877-467-4289.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Machine not runningPower connectionCheck power cord connection; ensure foot controller is plugged in
Thread breakingTension/needle issuesCheck thread tension; replace damaged needle; rethread machine
Uneven stitchesThreading/tensionRethread both upper and bobbin threads; adjust tension
Fabric not feedingFeed dogs loweredCheck feed dog position; raise if dropped for free-motion
Needle hitting plateNeedle insertionEnsure needle is inserted correctly with flat side to back
Bobbin issuesWinding/insertionRewind bobbin evenly; ensure bobbin inserted correctly
Buttonhole problemsStitch settingsFollow 4-step sequence exactly; use buttonhole foot

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

Pacesetter by Brother XL703 Sewing Machine Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025