The Brother LS14 is a lightweight, portable, and easy-to-use mechanical sewing machine designed for beginners and home sewing projects. It features 14 built-in stitches, a 4-step buttonhole, adjustable stitch length and width, free arm capability, and a drop feed for darning and free-motion sewing. This manual covers safety instructions, machine overview, setup, basic operations, maintenance, and troubleshooting.
Key components: Stitch selection dial, Stitch length dial, Stitch width dial, Reverse sewing lever, Bobbin winder, Free arm, Built-in light, Foot pedal, Power cord.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Built-in Stitches | 14 stitches including straight, zigzag, blind hem, and stretch stitches |
| 4-Step Buttonhole | Easy-to-create buttonholes in four simple steps |
| Free Arm | Removable accessory compartment for sewing cuffs and sleeves |
| Drop Feed | Lowers feed dogs for darning, quilting, and free-motion sewing |
| Stitch Length Control | Adjustable from 0 to 4 mm |
| Stitch Width Control | Adjustable up to 5 mm for zigzag stitches |
| Reverse Sewing Lever | Secures stitches at beginning and end of seams |
| Built-in Light | Illuminates sewing area |
| Bobbin System | Top-loading, drop-in bobbin with clear cover |
| Power & Speed Control | Foot pedal control with adjustable sewing speed |
Familiarize yourself with the main parts of the Brother LS14 sewing machine.
WARNING! Always turn off and unplug the machine before changing needles, bobbins, or performing maintenance.
Unpack the machine and set it up on a stable, flat surface.
CAUTION! Keep fingers away from moving parts, especially the needle.
Follow these steps to begin sewing.
Tip: Practice on scrap fabric to adjust tension and stitch settings.
Use the dials and controls to customize your sewing.
Stitch Selection Dial: Turn to select from 14 stitches (icons shown on dial).
Stitch Length Dial: 0 for bobbin winding, 1-4 for sewing (higher number = longer stitch).
Stitch Width Dial: Adjusts width of zigzag and other wide stitches (0-5 mm). For straight stitch, set to 0.
Reverse Sewing Lever: Hold down to sew in reverse.
Drop Feed Lever: Located near free arm. Push to lower feed dogs for darning or free-motion work.
Buttonhole Foot Attachment: Use buttonhole foot and follow 4-step process marked on stitch selection dial.
Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance.
CAUTION! Never use compressed air to clean; it can force lint deeper. Do not immerse machine in water.
| Symptom | Possible Cause | Corrective Action |
|---|---|---|
| Machine does not run | Power cord not plugged in; Power switch off | Check power connections; turn switch to "I". |
| Thread breaks | Incorrect threading; damaged needle; tension too tight | Re-thread top and bobbin; replace needle; reduce tension. |
| Uneven stitches / Skipping stitches | Wrong needle type/size; needle not inserted fully; blunt needle | Use correct needle (Universal 11/75 or 14/90); reinsert needle; replace needle. |
| Fabric not feeding | Feed dogs lowered; stitch length set to 0 | Raise feed dogs (drop feed lever up); adjust stitch length to 1-4. |
| Bobbin thread tangled | Bobbin inserted incorrectly; bobbin case linty | Reinsert bobbin with thread running counterclockwise; clean bobbin area. |
| Noisy operation | Lint build-up; lack of oil; foreign object | Clean and oil machine; check for and remove any obstructions. |
| Needle breaks | Bent needle; pulling fabric; incorrect foot | Replace needle; guide fabric gently; use correct presser foot. |
Reset: Turn power off and on. Re-thread completely if problems persist.
Standard accessories included with Brother LS14:
Brother International Corporation warrants this product for a limited period. Refer to your warranty card for details.
For Technical Support or Service:
Safety Compliance: Conforms to safety standards applicable in the country of purchase.