brother fs100wt sewing machine manual

The Brother FS100WT is a versatile and user-friendly sewing machine designed for home use, featuring a wide range of stitches, easy threading, automatic needle threading, built-in stitches, a drop-in bobbin system, adjustable stitch length and width, and a free arm for sewing cuffs and sleeves. It operates on 120V AC, 60Hz. 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. Threading the Machine 7. Selecting Stitches 8. Maintenance & Cleaning 9. Regulatory Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Sewing head with stitch selection dial, Bobbin case, Presser foot, Handwheel, Thread tension dial, Stitch length/width controls, Free arm, Foot pedal, Power cord.

FeatureDescription
Automatic needle threaderSimplifies threading of the needle
Drop-in bobbin systemEasy bobbin insertion and viewing
Built-in stitchesMultiple stitch patterns including straight, zigzag, and decorative
Free armFor sewing cylindrical items like sleeves and cuffs
Stitch length dialAdjusts length of stitches
Stitch width dialAdjusts width for zigzag and decorative stitches
Reverse stitch leverFor reinforcing seams
Presser foot pressure dialAdjusts pressure for different fabric types
Foot pedalControls sewing speed
Power switchTurns machine on/off

Unpacking and Setup

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

  1. Remove machine and accessories from packaging.
  2. Attach foot pedal: Connect pedal cord to machine port.
  3. Plug power cord into machine and then into a 120V AC outlet.
  4. Install needle: Loosen needle clamp screw, insert needle with flat side to the back, tighten screw.
  5. Wind bobbin: Follow threading diagram on machine.

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

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; follow threading guide.

  1. Thread upper thread: Follow numbered path on machine; use automatic needle threader.
  2. Insert bobbin: Place bobbin in case with thread unwinding clockwise; pull thread through slot.
  3. Select stitch: Turn stitch selection dial to desired pattern (e.g., straight stitch).
  4. Adjust settings: Set stitch length and width as needed.
  5. Test sew: Place fabric under presser foot, lower foot, and gently press foot pedal.

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

Specifications

Controls and Functions

Access controls via dials and levers on machine body.

Main Controls: Stitch selection dial, Stitch length dial, Stitch width dial, Reverse stitch lever, Thread tension dial, Presser foot lifter, Handwheel.

Stitch Selection: Turn dial to select stitch pattern (straight, zigzag, blind hem, etc.). Stitch Length: Adjust for shorter/longer stitches. Stitch Width: Adjust for narrow/wide zigzag. Thread Tension: Adjust for balanced stitches (higher number for tighter tension). Reverse Stitch: Hold lever to sew backwards for reinforcement.

Threading the Machine

Upper threading and bobbin insertion.

  1. Raise presser foot and needle to highest position.
  2. Place spool on spool pin; follow threading guide numbers (1 through 5).
  3. Use automatic needle threader: Pull down lever, hook thread through hook, release lever to pull thread through needle eye.
  4. For bobbin: Wind bobbin using bobbin winder; insert into bobbin case with thread pulling clockwise.
  5. Pull bobbin thread up through needle plate slot.

Tip: Ensure thread is properly seated in tension discs for smooth operation.

Selecting Stitches

Supports various stitches for different sewing tasks.

  1. Straight stitch: For seams, topstitching; adjust length as needed.
  2. Zigzag stitch: For finishing edges, appliqué; adjust width and length.
  3. Decorative stitches: Select pattern on dial; test on scrap fabric first.
  4. Buttonhole stitch: Use built-in buttonhole function; follow manual steps.
  5. Blind hem stitch: For nearly invisible hems; use appropriate presser foot.

WARNING! Always select stitch with machine off or needle stopped. Change presser foot as required for specific stitches.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Unplug before maintenance. Clean lint and dust regularly.

  1. Remove needle plate: Use screwdriver to lift plate; clean feed dogs and bobbin area.
  2. Oil machine: Apply drop of sewing machine oil to moving parts as per manual (do not over-oil).
  3. Wipe exterior: Use dry cloth; avoid liquids.
  4. Replace needle regularly: Dull or bent needles cause poor stitching.

CAUTION! Do not use compressed air; it can force lint into mechanics. Store in dry place.

Regulatory Information

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

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Machine does not runPower/pedalEnsure power cord plugged in; check foot pedal connection.
Thread bunching underneathThreading/bobbinRethread upper and bobbin thread; ensure bobbin inserted correctly.
Needle breaksNeedle/thread/fabricReplace needle; ensure correct needle for fabric; avoid pulling fabric.
Stitches skippingNeedle/threadingReplace needle; rethread machine; check needle insertion.
Uneven stitchesTension/threadAdjust thread tension; use same weight thread in top and bobbin.

Reset: Unplug machine for 1 minute if electronic issues occur.

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

brother fs100wt sewing machine manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025