Brother 2600i Sewing Machine Manual

The Brother 2600i is a versatile computerized sewing machine featuring 60 built-in stitches, automatic needle threader, one-step buttonhole, drop-in bobbin system, adjustable stitch length and width, speed control slider, free arm capability, built-in needle plate thread guide, and LED lighting. Powered by standard household outlet. Below are key sections for 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. Basic Sewing Operations 7. Stitch Selection Guide 8. Buttonhole and Specialty Stitches 9. Maintenance & Cleaning 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Computerized control panel, Automatic needle threader, Drop-in bobbin system, Free arm, LED work light, Foot pedal, Accessory storage.

FeatureDescription
Built-in stitches60 stitches including utility, decorative, and stretch
Automatic needle threaderEasily threads needle with lever mechanism
One-step buttonholeCreates perfect buttonholes automatically
Drop-in bobbinTop-loading bobbin with clear cover
Speed control sliderAdjusts maximum sewing speed
Free armRemovable extension table for cylindrical sewing
LED lightingBright illumination of sewing area
Stitch length/width adjustmentDigital controls for precise customization
Needle up/down buttonSets needle position at start/stop
Reverse stitch buttonReinforces beginning and end of seams

Unpacking and Setup

Unpack all components carefully. Place on stable, level surface.

  1. Remove machine from packaging: Lift by carrying handle, not by free arm.
  2. Attach extension table: Slide onto free arm until it clicks into place.
  3. Connect foot pedal: Plug into machine's foot control jack.
  4. Connect power: Plug power cord into machine, then into wall outlet.
  5. Install accessories: Remove accessory compartment cover, install spool pins.

WARNING! Machine is heavy; use both hands when lifting. Ensure stable surface to prevent tipping.

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; follow setup sequence.

  1. Wind bobbin: Place thread on spool pin, follow threading path to bobbin winder.
  2. Insert bobbin: Drop bobbin into case with thread clockwise; pull thread through slot.
  3. Thread upper needle: Use automatic needle threader or manual threading path.
  4. Select stitch: Turn dial or press buttons to choose desired stitch.
  5. Test sew: Place fabric under presser foot, lower foot, and press pedal gently.

CAUTION! Keep fingers away from needle area during operation. Always turn off when threading or changing accessories.

Specifications

Controls and Functions

Access functions via control panel buttons and dials. Front Panel: Power switch, Stitch selection dial, LCD display, Stitch length/width buttons, Reverse stitch button, Needle up/down button.

Control Panel: Stitch selection (dial/buttons), Straight/zigzag toggle, Stitch length (0-5), Stitch width (0-7), Memory function, Start/stop button (sewing without pedal).

Stitch Settings: Length adjustment for fabric thickness, Width adjustment for decorative effects. Utility Settings: Needle position, Thread tension dial (1-9), Presser foot pressure dial. Special Functions: Mirror imaging, Twin needle capability, Automatic thread cutter (simulated).

Basic Sewing Operations

Straight stitch, zigzag, and basic decorative stitches.

  1. Select stitch: Turn dial to desired stitch number.
  2. Adjust settings: Set length/width as needed for fabric.
  3. Position fabric: Lower presser foot lever.
  4. Start sewing: Press foot pedal gently; guide fabric with light pressure.
  5. Finish seam: Press reverse button to lock stitches, raise needle, lift presser foot.
  6. Cut threads: Use thread cutter or scissors.

Tip: Practice on scrap fabric first. Always use correct needle and thread for fabric type.

Stitch Selection Guide

Stitches 1-20: Utility stitches (straight, zigzag, stretch, overcast).

Stitch #TypeRecommended Use
1-3StraightSeams, topstitching, basting
4-6ZigzagFinishing edges, appliqué, elastic
7-10StretchKnits, jersey, swimwear
11-15OvercastPreventing fraying on woven fabrics
16-20Blind hemNearly invisible hems on garments
21-40DecorativeEmbroidery effects, borders, quilting
41-60SpecialtyShell, scallop, smocking, heirloom

Note: Refer to stitch chart on machine for visual reference of each stitch.

Buttonhole and Specialty Stitches

One-step buttonhole: Automatically sews all four sides.

  1. Mark buttonhole: Measure button, mark fabric with chalk or removable pen.
  2. Attach foot: Use buttonhole foot; lower lever onto foot.
  3. Select buttonhole: Choose style (1-7) based on fabric and button type.
  4. Position fabric: Place under foot aligning marks with foot guides.
  5. Sew: Press pedal once; machine sews complete buttonhole automatically.
  6. Finish: Remove fabric, cut opening with seam ripper or buttonhole chisel.

Specialty Features: Mirror function (duplicates stitch pattern reversed), Memory function (stores favorite stitch combinations), Twin needle capability (use with zigzag stitches only).

Maintenance & Cleaning

Unplug machine before maintenance. Regular cleaning prevents lint buildup.

  1. Remove needle plate: Use screwdriver to loosen screws, lift plate.
  2. Clean feed dogs: Use small brush to remove lint and threads.
  3. Clean bobbin area: Remove bobbin case, brush out lint.
  4. Oil machine: Apply 1-2 drops of sewing machine oil to hook race (consult manual for specific points).
  5. Replace needle: Change needle after 8-10 hours of sewing or for new project.

CAUTION! Use only sewing machine oil. Never use household oils. Store covered when not in use.

Warranty Information

Limited 25-year warranty on mechanical parts, 2-year warranty on electronic components. Warranty covers defects in materials/workmanship under normal household use. Does not cover damage from misuse, commercial use, or unauthorized repairs. For warranty service, contact authorized Brother service center with proof of purchase. Copyright © 2025 Brother Industries, Ltd. For support, visit www.brother-usa.com or contact 1-800-284-4357.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Machine won't startPower connection/pedalCheck power cord connections; ensure pedal is plugged in; check power switch.
Needle breaksWrong needle/bent needleReplace with correct type/size; ensure needle is inserted fully and straight.
Thread bunching underneathIncorrect threading/bobbinRethread top and bobbin; ensure bobbin inserted correctly; adjust tension.
Skipped stitchesDull needle/wrong needleReplace needle; use correct needle for fabric type; check threading.
Uneven feedingPresser foot pressureAdjust presser foot pressure dial; clean feed dogs; check foot is properly attached.
Buttonhole malfunctionsFoot attachment/fabricEnsure buttonhole foot is properly attached; use stabilizer for lightweight fabrics.
Automatic needle threader not workingNeedle position/threadRaise needle to highest position; ensure thread is in thread guide; replace threader if damaged.

Reset: Turn machine off, unplug for 60 seconds, then restart.

Service: 1-800-284-4357; www.brother-usa.com

Brother 2600i Sewing Machine Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025