Brother 1217 Sewing Machine Manual

The Brother 1217 is a versatile mechanical sewing machine designed for home use, featuring 17 built-in stitches, a 4-step buttonhole, adjustable stitch length and width, free arm capability, drop feed for darning and quilting, built-in LED light, and easy threading system. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Sewing machine head, foot pedal, power cord, accessory kit, instruction manual.

Unpacking and Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable surface.

1. Remove machine from box and all packaging materials.
2. Place machine on a sturdy, flat table or sewing cabinet.
3. Connect foot pedal to machine and plug into power outlet.
4. Attach power cord to machine and plug into wall outlet.
5. Install needle and thread machine following threading guide.

WARNING! Ensure machine is unplugged during setup. Keep hands away from needle area.

First-Time Use

Power on machine; follow threading instructions.

1. Thread upper thread: Follow numbered path on machine; use built-in needle threader.
2. Wind bobbin: Place thread on spool pin, wind bobbin using bobbin winding system.
3. Insert bobbin: Place bobbin in bobbin case with thread pulling counterclockwise.
4. Select stitch: Turn stitch selector dial to desired stitch.
5. Test sew: Use scrap fabric to test stitch and tension settings.

CAUTION! Always turn hand wheel toward you (counterclockwise) to avoid timing issues.

Specifications

• Type: Mechanical sewing machine.
• Stitches: 17 built-in stitches.
• Buttonhole: 4-step manual buttonhole.
• Stitch Length: Adjustable up to 4mm.
• Stitch Width: Adjustable up to 5mm.
• Speed: Up to 800 stitches per minute.
• Presser Feet: Includes zigzag foot, buttonhole foot, zipper foot, button sewing foot.
• Power Source: 120V AC, 60Hz.
• Weight: Approximately 13.2 lbs (6 kg).
• Warranty: 25-year limited warranty.

Controls and Settings

Main controls located on front and side of machine.

Stitch Selector Dial: Turn to select stitch pattern (1-17). Stitch Length Dial: Adjusts stitch length (0-4). Stitch Width Dial: Adjusts zigzag width (0-5). Reverse Stitch Button: Hold to sew in reverse. Hand Wheel: Manual control of needle. Bobbin Winder: Winds thread onto bobbin. Drop Feed Lever: Lowers feed dogs for free-motion sewing.

Settings: Thread tension dial (adjust for balanced stitches), presser foot pressure (adjustable for different fabrics).

Stitch Selection and Use

Select stitch based on fabric and project needs.

1. Straight Stitch (1-4): For seams, topstitching; adjust length for fabric weight.
2. Zigzag Stitch (5-6): For finishing edges, appliqué; adjust width as needed.
3. Stretch Stitches (7-9): For knit fabrics; prevents popped seams.
4. Decorative Stitches (10-17): For embellishments; use with matching thread.
5. Buttonhole (marked B.H.): 4-step process; use buttonhole foot.

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

Threading and Bobbin

Proper threading ensures smooth operation.

1. Upper Threading: Raise presser foot; follow numbered path; use needle threader.
2. Bobbin Winding: Place thread on spool pin, through bobbin winding tension; press bobbin winder.
3. Bobbin Insertion: Open bobbin cover; insert bobbin with thread pulling counterclockwise.
4. Draw Up Bobbin Thread: Hold upper thread; turn hand wheel to bring bobbin thread up.

WARNING! Ensure needle is in highest position before threading to avoid injury.

Maintenance and Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance.

1. Unplug machine before cleaning.
2. Remove needle plate to clean lint from feed dogs and bobbin area.
3. Use small brush to remove dust and thread bits.
4. Oil machine as per manual instructions (use sewing machine oil only).
5. Replace needle regularly (after 8-10 hours of sewing).

CAUTION! Do not use compressed air; it can force lint into mechanisms.

Safety Information

Always follow safety guidelines to prevent injury.

• Keep fingers away from moving needle.
• Unplug machine when not in use, during threading, or when changing accessories.
• Do not sew over pins; remove pins before sewing over them.
• Use proper needle and thread for fabric type.
• Keep machine clean and free of lint buildup.

WARNING! Never operate machine with damaged cord or foot pedal.

Warranty and Support

Brother 1217 comes with 25-year limited warranty. For support, visit www.brother-usa.com or contact 1-877-467-4289. Keep receipt for warranty claims. Copyright © 2025 Brother Industries, Ltd. All rights reserved.

Troubleshooting

Reset: Unplug machine for 5 minutes if electronic issues occur.

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