Brother FS50 Sewing Machine Manual

The Brother FS50 is a versatile and user-friendly sewing machine designed for home use, offering a range of built-in stitches, automatic needle threading, easy bobbin winding, and adjustable stitch length and width. It is suitable for beginners and experienced sewers alike, supporting various fabrics from lightweight to medium-weight materials. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Built-in stitch patterns, Automatic needle threader, Drop-in bobbin system, Stitch length/width adjustment, Reverse stitch button, Free arm capability, LED light, Foot pedal control.

Installation & Setup

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

1. Remove all packaging materials and protective covers.
2. Attach foot pedal: Connect pedal cord to machine port.
3. Plug power cord into machine and then into AC outlet (120V).
4. Install needle: Loosen needle clamp screw, insert needle with flat side facing back, tighten screw.
5. Attach presser foot: Lower presser foot lever, align foot shank, lower lever to lock.

WARNING! Ensure machine is unplugged during setup to avoid accidental start-up.

First-Time Use

Power on machine; follow steps for initial threading and bobbin winding.

1. Wind bobbin: Place thread spool on pin, guide thread through bobbin winding tension, press bobbin winder shaft, start pedal.
2. Thread upper thread: Follow numbered guides on machine, use automatic needle threader if available.
3. Insert bobbin: Open bobbin cover, drop in bobbin with thread clockwise, pull thread through slot.
4. Raise needle to highest position using handwheel.
5. Pull bobbin thread up by holding upper thread and turning handwheel.

CAUTION! Keep fingers away from needle area during operation.

Specifications

• Model: Brother FS50.
• Stitches: 10 built-in stitches (straight, zigzag, blind hem, elastic, decorative).
• Stitch Length: Adjustable 0–4 mm.
• Stitch Width: Adjustable 0–5 mm.
• Bobbin: Drop-in, Class 15 transparent bobbin.
• Needle: Standard household sewing machine needle (size 11/75 or 14/90).
• Lighting: LED bulb.
• Power Source: 120V AC, 60Hz.
• Weight: Approx. 11 lbs (5 kg).
• Warranty: Limited 25-year warranty.

Controls and Settings

Access controls via front panel and dials. Front Panel: Power switch, Stitch selection dial, Stitch length dial, Stitch width dial, Reverse stitch button.

Additional Features: Handwheel (manual needle control), Presser foot lever, Thread tension dial (adjust for fabric type), Bobbin winder shaft, Foot pedal connector.

Stitch Selection: Turn dial to desired stitch symbol. Stitch Length: Adjust dial for shorter/longer stitches. Stitch Width: Adjust dial for narrower/wider zigzag. Thread Tension: Default setting 4; adjust based on fabric and thread.

Stitch Selection & Adjustment

Select stitch using dial; adjust length/width as needed.

1. Straight stitch: For seams, topstitching; adjust length (2.5 mm default).
2. Zigzag stitch: For finishing edges, appliqué; adjust width and length.
3. Blind hem stitch: For invisible hems; use blind hem foot.
4. Elastic stitch: For stretch fabrics; use zigzag setting.
5. Decorative stitches: For embellishments; use appropriate foot.

Tip: Test stitch on fabric scrap before starting project.

Threading & Bobbin Winding

Proper threading ensures smooth operation.

1. Upper threading: Follow guides from spool to needle; use automatic threader by pulling lever down.
2. Bobbin winding: Place spool on pin, thread through guide, wrap around bobbin, engage winder, press pedal.
3. Bobbin insertion: Open cover, drop bobbin with thread clockwise, pull thread through slot.
4. Bring up bobbin thread: Hold upper thread, turn handwheel until needle goes down and up, pull thread end.

WARNING! Ensure machine is off and needle is up during threading.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Unplug before maintenance. Clean lint and dust regularly.

1. Remove needle plate screws; lift plate to access bobbin area.
2. Use brush to remove lint from feed dogs, bobbin case, and hook.
3. Oil moving parts per manual instructions (if required).
4. Wipe exterior with dry cloth; avoid liquids.

CAUTION! Do not use compressed air; it may force lint deeper.

Safety Information

Always unplug when not in use, during threading, needle changes, or cleaning. Keep hands away from moving parts. Use correct needle and thread for fabric. Do not sew over pins. Store in dry area.

Regulatory Information

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

Troubleshooting

Reset: Unplug for 1 minute; restart.

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