Brother LS 1520 Manual

The Brother LS 1520 is a versatile and user-friendly sewing machine designed for beginners and intermediate users. It features a range of built-in stitches, an automatic needle threader, a drop-in bobbin system, and adjustable stitch length and width. This manual provides comprehensive instructions for setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting to help you get the most out of your sewing machine.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Sewing machine head, foot pedal, power cord, accessory kit, instruction manual.

Installation & Setup

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

1. Attach the foot pedal: Connect the foot pedal cable to the port on the right side of the machine.
2. Plug in the power cord: Connect the power cord to the machine and then to a standard 120V AC outlet.
3. Install the needle: Loosen the needle clamp screw, insert the needle with the flat side facing back, and tighten the screw.
4. Wind the bobbin: Follow the threading diagram on the machine to wind the bobbin with thread.
5. Insert the bobbin: Place the wound bobbin into the bobbin case with the thread running counterclockwise.

WARNING! Keep fingers away from the needle area during setup and operation. Always unplug the machine when not in use or during maintenance.

First-Time Use

Power on the machine; the LED light will turn on.

1. Thread the machine: Follow the numbered threading path printed on the machine. Use the automatic needle threader for ease.
2. Select a stitch: Turn the stitch selection dial to choose your desired stitch (e.g., straight stitch for beginners).
3. Adjust stitch settings: Set the stitch length and width using the corresponding dials.
4. Practice on scrap fabric: Place fabric under the presser foot, lower the foot, and gently press the foot pedal to start sewing.

CAUTION! Always start with the needle in the highest position. Do not force the fabric; let the feed dogs move it.

Specifications

• Model: Brother LS 1520.
• Stitches: 15 built-in stitches.
• Stitch Length: Adjustable up to 4mm.
• Stitch Width: Adjustable up to 5mm.
• Bobbin: Top-loading, Class 15 transparent bobbin.
• Needle: Standard household sewing machine needle (HAx1).
• Power Supply: 120V AC, 60Hz.
• Speed: Up to 750 stitches per minute.
• Weight: Approximately 11 lbs (5 kg).
• Warranty: 25-year limited warranty.

Controls and Functions

Access all functions via dials and levers on the front and top of the machine.

Front Panel: Stitch selection dial, stitch length dial, stitch width dial, reverse sewing lever.

Top Features: Spool pin, thread guide, automatic needle threader, tension dial, presser foot lever, handwheel.

Stitch Selection: Turn dial to choose from 15 stitches (straight, zigzag, blind hem, elastic, etc.). Stitch Length: Adjust from 0-4mm for shorter or longer stitches. Stitch Width: Adjust from 0-5mm for narrow or wide zigzag stitches. Tension: Adjust thread tension dial for balanced stitches (default setting is 4). Reverse Sewing: Hold lever to sew in reverse for reinforcement.

Stitch Selection & Settings

Use the stitch selection dial to choose from 15 built-in stitches.

1. Straight Stitch: Dial setting 1; ideal for seams and topstitching.
2. Zigzag Stitch: Dial setting 3; used for finishing edges and decorative sewing.
3. Blind Hem Stitch: Dial setting 5; for nearly invisible hems.
4. Elastic Stitch: Dial setting 7; for sewing stretch fabrics.
5. Decorative Stitches: Dial settings 9-15; for embellishments.
6. Buttonhole Stitch: Dial setting 4; one-step automatic buttonhole.

Tip: Always test stitch settings on a scrap piece of fabric before starting your project.

Threading & Bobbin Winding

Proper threading is essential for smooth operation.

1. Wind the bobbin: Place thread on spool pin, guide through bobbin winding tension, wrap around bobbin, and press foot pedal.
2. Insert bobbin: Place bobbin in case with thread running counterclockwise; pull thread through slot.
3. Thread the upper thread: Follow numbered path from spool pin to needle, using the automatic needle threader.
4. Draw up bobbin thread: Hold upper thread, turn handwheel toward you to bring bobbin thread up through needle plate.

WARNING! Ensure the presser foot is raised when threading. Always use the same thread type in the bobbin and upper thread for balanced stitches.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Unplug the machine before cleaning. Regularly clean lint and dust from the bobbin area and feed dogs.

1. Remove the needle plate: Use a screwdriver to remove screws and lift off the needle plate.
2. Clean lint: Use a small brush to remove lint from the bobbin case and surrounding area.
3. Oil the machine: Apply one drop of sewing machine oil to the hook race once a year (see manual for specific points).
4. Replace the needle: Change the needle after every 8-10 hours of sewing or if it becomes dull or bent.

CAUTION! Do not use compressed air to clean; it can force lint deeper into the machine. Use only Brother-recommended oil.

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 Brother Customer Service at 1-877-467-4289. This product is covered by a 25-year limited warranty. Always use genuine Brother parts and accessories for optimal performance.

Troubleshooting

Reset: Unplug machine for 5 minutes to reset electronic components if experiencing erratic behavior.

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