brother fs101 sewing machine manual

The Brother FS101 is a versatile and user-friendly sewing machine designed for both beginners and experienced sewers. It features a range of built-in stitches, automatic needle threading, easy bobbin winding, 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. Maintenance and Cleaning 9. Regulatory Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Sewing machine head, foot pedal, power cord, accessory kit (presser feet, bobbins, needles, seam ripper, brush), instruction manual.

Feature	Description
Built-in Stitches	Includes straight, zigzag, blind hem, buttonhole, and decorative stitches
Automatic Needle Threader	Easily threads the needle with a simple lever mechanism
Drop-in Bobbin System	Top-loading, jam-resistant bobbin for easy winding and insertion
Free Arm	Removable extension table for sewing cylindrical items
Stitch Length/Width Adjustment	Dial controls for customizing stitch size
Reverse Stitch Lever	Reinforces seam beginnings and ends
Presser Foot Pressure	Adjustable for different fabric thicknesses
Built-in Light	Illuminates the sewing area
Foot Pedal Control	Variable speed control for sewing pace
Accessory Storage	Built-in compartment for needles, bobbins, and tools

Unpacking and Setup

Carefully unpack all components and place the machine on a stable, flat surface.

Remove packaging materials and protective covers.
Attach the extension table (if removed) by sliding it into place until it clicks.
Connect the foot pedal to the machine's port.
Plug the power cord into the machine and then into a standard 120V AC outlet.
Install the needle and thread the machine following the threading guide.
Wind and insert the bobbin.

WARNING! Keep fingers away from the needle area during setup and operation. Ensure the machine is unplugged when threading or changing needles.

First-Time Operation

Power on the machine using the power switch; familiarize yourself with basic controls.

Select a straight stitch using the stitch selector dial.
Place fabric under the presser foot, lower the foot using the lever.
Gently press the foot pedal to start sewing; guide fabric with light pressure.
Use the reverse lever to backstitch at the beginning and end of seams.
Raise the presser foot and remove fabric; trim threads with the built-in cutter.

CAUTION! Always turn off and unplug the machine before changing needles, presser feet, or performing maintenance.

Specifications

Model: Brother FS101
Stitches: 10 built-in stitches (straight, zigzag, blind hem, elastic, decorative)
Stitch Length: Adjustable up to 4mm
Stitch Width: Adjustable up to 5mm
Bobbin: Top-loading, Class 15 transparent bobbin
Needle: Standard household sewing machine needles (size 11/80 recommended)
Max Sewing Speed: 800 stitches per minute
Power Supply: 120V AC, 60Hz
Dimensions: 15.7" x 7.1" x 12.2" (with extension table)
Weight: 13.2 lbs
Warranty: 25-year limited warranty

Controls and Functions

Main controls located on the front and side of the machine.

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

Side/Back: Power switch, power cord socket, foot pedal socket, bobbin winder, tension dial.

Basic Operations: Threading path marked with numbers; automatic needle threader lever; bobbin winding on top; drop-in bobbin system with clear cover; presser foot pressure adjustment dial (for thick/thin fabrics).

Stitch Selection and Settings

Use the stitch selector dial to choose from available stitches. Adjust length and width as needed.

Straight Stitch: For seams and topstitching (length 2.0-2.5mm recommended).
Zigzag Stitch: For finishing edges, appliqué, and stretch fabrics.
Blind Hem Stitch: For nearly invisible hems on garments.
Buttonhole Stitch: One-step automatic buttonhole (use buttonhole foot).
Decorative Stitches: For embellishments (adjust width for variation).

Tip: Test stitches on a fabric scrap before sewing your project. Adjust tension if stitches are too loose or tight.

Maintenance and Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

Unplug the machine before any cleaning.
Remove the needle plate and bobbin case to clean lint and dust with the provided brush.
Oil the machine as per manual instructions (use only sewing machine oil).
Wipe the exterior with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use harsh chemicals.
Store the machine covered when not in use to prevent dust accumulation.

CAUTION! Never immerse the machine in water or use aerosol sprays near it. Have the machine serviced professionally every few years.

Regulatory Information

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Machine not running	Power cord unplugged; foot pedal disconnected	Check power connections; ensure foot pedal is plugged in.
Thread bunching underneath	Incorrect bobbin threading; tension too loose	Re-thread bobbin; adjust bobbin tension; re-thread top thread.
Needle breaking	Wrong needle type; bent needle; fabric pulled	Replace with correct needle; don't pull fabric; ensure needle is inserted fully.
Skipped stitches	Dull needle; incorrect needle for fabric	Replace needle; use ballpoint needle for knits, sharp for wovens.
Uneven stitches	Thread tension incorrect; dirty feed dogs	Adjust tension dial; clean feed dogs with brush.
Buttonhole not forming	Buttonhole foot not attached; stitch width too narrow	Attach buttonhole foot; adjust stitch width.

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

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