Brother FS80X Sewing Machine Manual

The Brother FS80X is a versatile electronic sewing machine designed for home use, featuring 80 built-in stitches, automatic needle threading, a drop-in bobbin system, adjustable stitch length and width, speed control slider, built-in buttonholer, free arm capability, and multiple presser feet. Powered by standard household electricity. 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 Settings 6. Stitch Selection and Use 7. Threading and Bobbin 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Electronic control panel, Automatic needle threader, Drop-in bobbin system, Free arm, LED work light, Foot pedal, Accessory storage.

Feature	Description
80 Built-in Stitches	Includes utility, decorative, and stretch stitches
Automatic Needle Threader	Easily threads needle with lever mechanism
Drop-in Bobbin	Top-loading, clear cover for easy monitoring
Free Arm	Removable extension table for sewing cuffs and sleeves
Speed Control Slider	Adjusts maximum sewing speed
One-step Buttonholer	Automatically creates buttonholes of precise size
Stitch Length/Width Dial	Adjustable for customization
LED Work Light	Illuminates sewing area
Presser Feet Included	All-purpose, zipper, buttonhole, button sewing feet
Power Switch	Turns machine on/off

Unpacking and Setup

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

Remove machine and accessories from packaging.
Attach power cord to machine and plug into wall outlet.
Install foot pedal and place on floor.
Attach extension table if not already installed.
Raise presser foot lever and install desired presser foot.

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

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; familiarize with controls.

Thread the machine: Follow threading path marked on machine; use automatic needle threader.
Wind and insert bobbin: Place bobbin on winder, thread through tension disc, wind evenly, then drop into bobbin case.
Select a stitch: Turn stitch selection dial to desired pattern.
Adjust settings: Set stitch length and width as needed.
Test sew: Use scrap fabric to check tension and stitch formation.

CAUTION! Always start with needle at highest position. Keep hands clear of moving parts.

Specifications

Model: Brother FS80X Electronic Sewing Machine.
Stitches: 80 built-in stitches (utility, decorative, stretch).
Buttonholes: One-step automatic buttonholer.
Needle Threading: Automatic with lever.
Bobbin: Drop-in, top-loading.
Speed Control: Adjustable via slider.
Lighting: LED work light.
Free Arm: Yes, with removable extension table.
Power Source: 120V AC, 60Hz (or local standard).
Included Accessories: Multiple presser feet, bobbins, needles, seam ripper, brush, screwdriver.

Controls and Settings

Control Panel: Stitch selection dial, Stitch length dial, Stitch width dial, Reverse stitch button, Power switch, Speed control slider.

Basic Adjustments: Stitch Length (0-4 mm), Stitch Width (0-7 mm), Thread Tension (adjust dial for balanced stitches).

Special Functions: Reverse stitching for reinforcement, Needle up/down position (if applicable), Built-in needle threader (pull lever down).

Stitch Selection and Use

Refer to stitch chart for pattern numbers and recommended uses.

Turn stitch selection dial to desired pattern number.
For straight stitch: Use pattern 01, adjust length as needed.
For zigzag: Use pattern 02-06, adjust width for satin or decorative effects.
For buttonhole: Select buttonhole pattern, place fabric under foot, machine sews automatically.
For decorative stitches: Choose pattern, test on scrap fabric first.

Tip: Always lower presser foot before sewing. Use appropriate presser foot for each stitch type.

Threading and Bobbin

Proper threading is essential for good stitch quality.

Raise presser foot and needle to highest position.
Place spool on holder, follow numbered threading path to tension discs.
Use automatic needle threader: Pull lever down, hook thread, release lever.
Wind bobbin: Place empty bobbin on winder, thread through guide, press bobbin winder shaft, start machine.
Insert bobbin: Drop bobbin into case with thread unwinding counterclockwise, pull thread through slot.

WARNING! Ensure machine is off or unplugged when threading bobbin area. Keep threads free of tangles.

Care & Maintenance

Unplug before cleaning. Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance.

Clean lint from bobbin area and feed dogs after each project.
Oil machine as per manual instructions (if required).
Replace needle regularly (every 8-10 hours of sewing).
Use soft brush to remove dust; wipe exterior with dry cloth.

CAUTION! Do not use compressed air; it can force lint into mechanism. Never immerse machine in water.

Regulatory Information

FCC Compliance: 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. This product conforms to applicable safety standards.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Machine does not run	Power cord, switch	Ensure machine is plugged in and power switch is ON.
Thread bunching underneath	Incorrect threading/bobbin	Re-thread top and bobbin; ensure bobbin inserted correctly.
Needle breaks	Wrong needle/bent needle	Replace with correct type; ensure needle is straight and fully inserted.
Uneven stitches	Tension settings	Adjust thread tension; re-thread; check for lint in tension discs.
Fabric not feeding	Presser foot pressure/feed dogs	Ensure presser foot is lowered; clean feed dogs; check stitch length setting.
Automatic needle threader not working	Needle position/thread	Raise needle to highest position; ensure thread is properly placed in hook.

Reset: Turn power off and on if electronic functions behave unexpectedly.

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