Brother FS 40 Manual

The Brother FS 40 is a versatile sewing machine designed for home use, featuring a range of stitches, automatic needle threading, easy bobbin winding, and a durable metal frame. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Built-in stitches, Automatic needle threader, Drop-in bobbin system, Free arm, LED light, Stitch length/width adjustment, Reverse sewing lever.

Feature	Description
Built-in stitches	40 utility and decorative stitches including straight, zigzag, and buttonhole
Automatic needle threader	Easily threads needle with a simple lever
Drop-in bobbin	Top-loading bobbin for easy insertion and viewing
Free arm	Removable accessory tray for sewing cuffs and sleeves
LED light	Bright illumination of sewing area
Stitch selection dial	Easy selection of stitches with clear markings
Reverse sewing lever	Reinforce stitches at beginning and end of seams
Bobbin winding system	Built-in bobbin winder on machine
Power/light switch	Conveniently located on right side
Foot pressure adjustment	Adjustable for different fabric thicknesses

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 table or sewing cabinet.
3. Attach foot controller plug to machine and power cord to outlet.
4. Install needle, presser foot, and thread spool pin.
5. Wind and insert bobbin following threading guide.

WARNING! Machine is heavy; lift with care. Ensure work area is clean and well-lit.

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; follow setup steps.

1. Plug in power cord and turn on power switch.
2. Raise presser foot and position fabric under needle.
3. Select straight stitch (position 1) using stitch selection dial.
4. Lower presser foot and gently press foot controller to start sewing.
5. Practice on scrap fabric to adjust speed and stitch length.

CAUTION! Keep fingers away from moving needle. Always turn off power when threading or changing accessories.

Specifications

• Model: Brother FS 40
• Stitches: 40 built-in stitches
• Stitch Length: Adjustable up to 4mm
• Stitch Width: Adjustable up to 5mm
• Speed: Up to 800 stitches per minute
• Needle: HA-1 sewing machine needle (included)
• Bobbin: Class 15 transparent bobbin
• Light: LED sewing light
• Power Supply: 110-120V, 60Hz
• Dimensions: 15.7" x 7.1" x 12.2"
• Weight: 13.2 lbs

Controls and Functions

Main controls located on front and right side of machine.

Front Panel: Stitch selection dial, Stitch length dial, Stitch width dial, Reverse sewing lever, Thread tension dial.

Right Side: Power switch, Bobbin winder, Handwheel.

Needle Area: Presser foot lever, Needle threader lever, Presser foot screw, Needle clamp screw.

Stitch Selection: Turn dial to select desired stitch pattern (numbered 1-40). Stitch Length: Adjust for shorter/longer stitches (0-4mm). Stitch Width: Adjust for wider/narrower zigzag (0-5mm). Thread Tension: Adjust for balanced stitches (usually 4 for normal fabrics).

Stitch Selection

40 built-in stitches for various sewing needs.

1. Straight Stitches (1-6): For seams, topstitching, basting.
2. Zigzag Stitches (7-12): For finishing edges, appliqué, stretch fabrics.
3. Decorative Stitches (13-30): For embellishment and decorative seams.
4. Buttonhole Stitches (31-34): One-step automatic buttonholes.
5. Blind Hem Stitch (35): For nearly invisible hems.
6. Elastic Stitches (36-40): For sewing elastic and stretch fabrics.

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

Threading and Bobbin

Proper threading ensures smooth operation.

1. Raise presser foot and needle to highest position.
2. Place spool on pin and follow numbered threading path.
3. Use automatic needle threader: Lower lever, hook thread, raise lever.
4. Wind bobbin: Place empty bobbin on winder, guide thread, engage winder.
5. Insert bobbin: Drop bobbin into case with thread clockwise, pull thread through slot.

WARNING! Always turn power off when threading. Ensure thread paths are clear of obstructions.

Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance.

1. Clean lint from bobbin area after each project.
2. Oil machine as instructed in manual (use sewing machine oil only).
3. Replace needle regularly (after 8-10 hours of sewing).
4. Cover machine when not in use to prevent dust accumulation.
5. Have machine serviced professionally every 1-2 years.

CAUTION! Unplug machine before cleaning or maintenance. Use only recommended accessories.

Safety Information

Important safety precautions for safe operation.

• Always unplug machine when not in use, during threading, or when changing accessories.
• Keep fingers away from moving parts and needle.
• Do not use damaged power cords or plugs.
• Keep machine away from water and heat sources.
• Supervise children and inexperienced users.
• Use proper needle for fabric type to prevent breakage.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Machine doesn't run	Power issues	Check power cord connection; ensure power switch is on; check outlet.
Needle breaks	Wrong needle/thread	Use correct needle for fabric; ensure needle is properly inserted; check thread tension.
Uneven stitches	Threading/tension	Re-thread upper and lower threads; adjust tension; clean bobbin area.
Thread bunching	Bobbin issues	Re-wind bobbin evenly; ensure bobbin is inserted correctly; clean bobbin case.
Fabric not feeding	Presser foot/feed dogs	Lower presser foot; clean feed dogs; check stitch length setting.
Noisy operation	Lint/lack of oil	Clean lint from bobbin area; oil machine as directed in manual.
Automatic needle threader not working	Needle position	Raise needle to highest position; ensure thread is properly positioned in hook.

Service: For technical support, contact Brother International at 1-877-888-5623 or visit www.brother-usa.com