brother 2125 sewing machine manual

The Brother 2125 is a versatile and user-friendly sewing machine designed for both beginners and experienced sewers. It features a range of built-in stitches, an automatic needle threader, a drop-in bobbin system, adjustable stitch length and width, and a free arm for sewing cylindrical items like sleeves and cuffs. Below are key sections covering 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 Functions 6. Stitch Selection and Settings 8. Basic Sewing Techniques 9. Maintenance & Cleaning 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Main body with free arm, Foot Controller, Power Cord, Accessory Box (including presser feet, bobbins, needles, screwdriver, lint brush), Instruction Manual.

FeatureDescription
Built-in Stitches25 utility and decorative stitches including straight, zigzag, and blind hem
Automatic Needle ThreaderEasily threads the needle with a simple lever action
Drop-in Bobbin SystemTop-loading, jam-resistant bobbin for easy setup and viewing
Stitch Length/Width DialAdjustable for customizing stitch appearance
Free ArmRemovable flat bed accessory for sewing cylindrical items
Buttonhole StitchOne-step automatic buttonhole
Presser FeetIncludes zigzag foot, buttonhole foot, zipper foot, and blind hem foot
Reverse Sewing LeverFor reinforcing seams at the beginning and end
Power/Speed ControlOn/off switch and foot controller for variable sewing speed
LightBuilt-in LED light for illuminating the sewing area

Unpacking and Setup

Unpack and inspect all contents. Place on a stable, flat surface.

  1. Remove machine from packaging: Lift machine by its carrying handle.
  2. Attach power cord: Plug into machine and then into a standard 120V AC outlet.
  3. Install foot controller: Plug into machine port.
  4. Wind and insert bobbin: Follow threading diagram on machine.
  5. Thread upper thread: Use automatic needle threader or manual guide.

WARNING! Keep fingers away from needle area during operation. Always turn off and unplug for maintenance.

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; familiarize yourself with controls.

  1. Select a stitch: Turn pattern selector dial to desired stitch (e.g., straight stitch).
  2. Adjust settings: Set stitch length and width as needed.
  3. Place fabric: Lower presser foot lever.
  4. Start sewing: Gently press foot controller.
  5. Reverse: Hold reverse lever to backstitch at start and end.
  6. Finish: Raise needle, lift presser foot, and remove fabric.

CAUTION! Always use the correct needle and thread for your fabric type.

Specifications

Controls and Functions

Front Panel: Stitch pattern selector dial, stitch length dial, stitch width dial, reverse sewing lever, presser foot lever.

Additional Features: Automatic needle threader lever, bobbin winder spindle, handwheel, drop-in bobbin cover, built-in LED light switch.

Stitch Selection: Turn dial to icon/number for desired stitch. Stitch Adjustment: Length dial for longer/shorter stitches; width dial for zigzag and decorative stitches. Tension: Upper thread tension dial (usually set to 4 for normal fabrics).

Stitch Selection and Settings

Refer to stitch chart on machine for recommended settings.

  1. Straight Stitch: For seams and topstitching (length 2.0-2.5).
  2. Zigzag Stitch: For finishing edges and stretch fabrics (adjust width).
  3. Blind Hem Stitch: For nearly invisible hems (use blind hem foot).
  4. Decorative Stitches: For embellishments (select pattern, adjust width/length).
  5. Buttonhole: One-step automatic (attach buttonhole foot).

Tip: Test stitch on a fabric scrap before starting your project.

Basic Sewing Techniques

Follow these steps for common tasks.

  1. Seaming: Align fabric edges, select straight stitch, sew with 5/8" seam allowance.
  2. Zigzag Finish: Sew along raw edge to prevent fraying.
  3. Buttonhole: Mark position, attach foot, machine will sew complete buttonhole.
  4. Zipper Installation: Use zipper foot for close stitching.
  5. Darning: Remove presser foot, lower feed dogs, move fabric manually.
  6. Free Arm Sewing: Remove flat bed accessory for sleeves and cuffs.

WARNING! Never pull fabric while sewing; let feed dogs move it.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Unplug machine before any maintenance.

  1. Cleaning: Use lint brush to remove lint from bobbin area and feed dogs.
  2. Oiling: Apply one drop of sewing machine oil to hook race occasionally (see manual).
  3. Needle Replacement: Turn handwheel to raise needle, loosen screw, insert new needle flat side back.
  4. Bobbin Care: Use only Class 15 bobbins; wind evenly.

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

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with interference limits for residential use. Copyright © Brother Industries, Ltd. For support, visit www.brother-usa.com or contact Brother Customer Service at 1-877-467-4289.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Machine does not runPower connectionEnsure power cord is plugged in; check outlet; turn on power switch.
Thread bunching underneathIncorrect threading/bobbinRe-thread upper and lower threads; ensure bobbin is inserted correctly.
Needle breaksWrong needle/bent needleReplace with correct needle for fabric; ensure needle is straight and fully inserted.
Uneven stitchesTension issuesAdjust upper thread tension; re-thread; check bobbin.
Fabric not feedingFeed dogs lowered/dirtyRaise feed dogs; clean lint from feed dog area.
Skip stitchesDull/bent needleReplace needle; ensure correct needle type for fabric.
Noisy operationLint/lack of oilClean and oil machine as per manual.

Reset: Turn off, unplug for 1 minute, then restart.

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

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