Brother CS-100 Sewing Machine Manual

The Brother CS-100 is a versatile, user-friendly computerized sewing machine designed for beginners and intermediate sewers. It features 100 built-in stitches, an automatic needle threader, a drop-in bobbin system, a one-step buttonhole, and a free arm for sewing cuffs and sleeves. 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 Techniques 7. Stitch Selection and Settings 8. Maintenance and Cleaning 9. Accessories and Parts 10. Safety Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: LCD screen, stitch selection dial, automatic needle threader, drop-in bobbin, free arm, foot pedal, accessory compartment.

FeatureDescription
Built-in Stitches100 stitches including utility, decorative, and heirloom
Automatic Needle ThreaderEasily threads the needle with a lever
Drop-in Bobbin SystemTop-loading, jam-resistant bobbin
One-Step ButtonholeAutomatically sews buttonholes in one step
Free ArmRemovable extension table for sewing cylindrical items
LCD ScreenDisplays selected stitch number and settings
Stitch Length/Width AdjustmentDial controls for customizing stitches
Needle Position ButtonRaises/lowers needle; sets needle up/down position
Reverse Stitch ButtonSecures stitches at beginning and end
Foot PedalControls sewing speed

Unpacking and Setup

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

  1. Remove all packaging materials and protective covers.
  2. Attach the extension table to the free arm if removed.
  3. Plug the power cord into the machine and a 120V AC outlet.
  4. Connect the foot pedal to the machine.
  5. Install the needle and thread the machine (see First-Time Operation).

WARNING! Keep hands away from needle and moving parts during setup. Ensure machine is unplugged when installing needle or bobbin.

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; follow steps to thread and begin sewing.

  1. Raise presser foot and needle to highest position using handwheel.
  2. Thread upper thread: Follow numbered path on machine; use automatic needle threader.
  3. Wind bobbin: Place thread on spool pin, wind bobbin using bobbin winding system.
  4. Insert bobbin: Drop bobbin into case with thread pulling counterclockwise.
  5. Pull up bobbin thread: Hold upper thread, turn handwheel to bring bobbin thread up.
  6. Select stitch: Turn stitch selection dial to desired number.
  7. Begin sewing: Place fabric under presser foot, lower foot, press foot pedal.

CAUTION! Always lower presser foot before sewing. Do not pull fabric; let feed dogs move it.

Specifications

Controls and Functions

Access functions via dials and buttons on front panel. LCD Screen: Shows stitch number and settings.

Main Controls: Stitch Selection Dial, Stitch Length Dial (0-4 mm), Stitch Width Dial (0-7 mm), Reverse Stitch Button, Needle Position Button, Start/Stop Button (if equipped).

Stitch Settings: Adjust length for straight stitches, width for zigzag and decorative stitches. Tension: Automatic for most fabrics; adjust dial if needed (3-4 normal). Needle Threader: Pull down lever to thread needle automatically. Bobbin Winding: Engage bobbin winder; press foot pedal to wind.

Basic Sewing Techniques

Straight stitch, zigzag, buttonholes, zippers, blind hem.

  1. Straight Stitch: Select stitch 01; adjust length as needed.
  2. Zigzag Stitch: Select stitch 02-06; adjust width for seam finishing.
  3. Buttonhole: Attach buttonhole foot; select buttonhole stitch; place button in foot; machine sews automatically.
  4. Zipper: Attach zipper foot; adjust needle position to sew close to zipper teeth.
  5. Blind Hem: Attach blind hem foot; fold fabric; select blind hem stitch.

Tip: Practice on scrap fabric first. Use appropriate presser foot for each technique.

Stitch Selection and Settings

Stitches grouped: Utility (01-20), Decorative (21-70), Heirloom (71-100).

  1. Select stitch: Turn dial to number; LCD displays number.
  2. Adjust length/width: Use dials; refer to stitch chart for recommended settings.
  3. Test stitch: Sew on scrap fabric to check tension and appearance.
  4. Reverse: Press reverse button at start and end to lock stitches.
  5. Needle up/down: Use needle position button to set stopping position.

WARNING! Do not change stitch selection while needle is in fabric. Raise needle first.

Maintenance and Cleaning

Unplug machine before cleaning. Remove lint and dust regularly.

  1. Remove needle plate: Use screwdriver to lift plate; clean lint from feed dogs and bobbin area.
  2. Clean bobbin case: Remove bobbin; wipe case with soft brush.
  3. Oil machine: Apply drop of sewing machine oil to hook race occasionally (see manual).
  4. Exterior: Wipe with dry cloth; do not use liquids.

CAUTION! Do not blow into machine; use brush only. Over-oiling can stain fabric.

Accessories and Parts

Included accessories: Zigzag foot, buttonhole foot, zipper foot, blind hem foot, button sewing foot, needle set, bobbins (3), screwdriver, brush, seam ripper, spool cap, instruction manual.

Optional: Walking foot, quilting foot, embroidery foot. Replacement parts: Needles (HAx1 SP), bobbins (Class 15), bulbs, belts. Order from authorized Brother dealer.

Safety Information

Always unplug machine when not in use, during threading, needle changes, or cleaning. Keep fingers away from needle and moving parts. Do not use damaged cords or plugs. Keep machine dry; avoid water exposure. Use only Brother recommended accessories. Store in dry place away from children.

WARNING! Risk of electric shock. Do not operate with wet hands. Disconnect power before servicing.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Machine does not runPower cord not plugged inCheck power connection; ensure foot pedal is connected.
Thread breaksIncorrect threading/tensionRe-thread upper and bobbin thread; reduce tension.
Needle breaksWrong needle/bent needleReplace needle; ensure it is inserted fully and straight.
Uneven stitchesDirty bobbin areaClean lint from bobbin case and feed dogs.
Fabric not feedingPresser foot not loweredLower presser foot; check feed dogs are up.
Bobbin thread tangledBobbin inserted incorrectlyRemove bobbin; reinsert with thread pulling counterclockwise.
Buttonhole not formingWrong foot/fabric too thickUse buttonhole foot; stabilize fabric with interfacing.

Reset: Turn machine off and on to reset computerized settings.

Service: For repairs, contact authorized Brother service center. Visit www.brother-usa.com or call 1-877-888-5525.

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