Brother LS14S User Manual

The Brother LS14S is a versatile mechanical sewing machine designed for home use, featuring 14 built-in stitches, a 4-step buttonhole, free arm capability, adjustable stitch length and width, built-in light, drop feed for darning and free-motion sewing, and easy threading system. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Sewing machine head, Free arm, Stitch selection dial, Stitch length dial, Stitch width dial, Reverse sewing lever, Bobbin winder, Built-in light, Foot pedal, Accessory storage.

Installation & Setup

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

1. Remove machine from packaging: Carefully lift machine from box, remove all protective materials.
2. Attach foot pedal: Connect foot pedal cord to machine port (usually front or side).
3. Plug into power: Connect power cord to machine and then to a standard 120V AC outlet.
4. Install accessories: Attach standard presser foot, place spool pin, and insert empty bobbin.

WARNING! Ensure machine is placed on a stable surface to prevent tipping. Keep fingers away from needle area during setup.

First-Time Use

Power on machine; turn handwheel toward you to raise needle to highest position.

1. Wind bobbin: Place thread on spool pin, guide through bobbin winder tension, press bobbin onto winder shaft, and engage winder.
2. Insert bobbin: Open bobbin cover, insert bobbin with thread unwinding in correct direction (check manual diagram).
3. Thread upper thread: Follow numbered threading path on machine from spool pin to needle.
4. Test stitch: Place fabric under presser foot, lower foot, and gently press foot pedal to sew a few stitches.

CAUTION! Always turn handwheel toward you only. Never force the handwheel.

Specifications

• Model: Brother LS14S.
• Stitches: 14 built-in stitches.
• Buttonhole: 4-step manual buttonhole.
• Stitch Length: Adjustable 0-4 mm.
• Stitch Width: Adjustable up to 5 mm.
• Max Sewing Speed: Approximately 800 stitches per minute.
• Free Arm: Yes, with removable flatbed.
• Light: Built-in LED light.
• Power Source: 120V AC, 60Hz.
• Machine Weight: Approximately 12.3 lbs (5.6 kg).

Controls and Settings

Main controls located on front and side of machine. Stitch Selection Dial: Turn to select desired stitch pattern (numbered 1-14). Stitch Length Dial: Adjusts distance between stitches (0-4). Stitch Width Dial: Adjusts side-to-side width of zigzag and decorative stitches (0-5 mm). Reverse Sewing Lever: Hold down to sew in reverse. Thread Tension Dial: Adjust for balanced stitches (usually 4 for normal sewing). Drop Feed Dog Lever: Lowers feed dogs for free-motion work.

Presser Feet: Standard foot included; optional feet available for zippers, buttonholes, etc.

Stitch Selection & Patterns

Refer to stitch chart on machine or manual for pattern numbers.

1. Straight Stitch (Pattern 1): For seams, topstitching, basting.
2. Zigzag Stitch (Pattern 2): For finishing edges, appliqué, stretch fabrics.
3. Blind Hem Stitch (Pattern 4): For nearly invisible hems on garments.
4. Elastic Stitch (Pattern 6): For sewing elastic, decorative seams on knits.
5. Decorative Stitches (Patterns 7-14): For embellishment and special effects.
6. 4-Step Buttonhole: Use Patterns A, B, C, D in sequence for perfect buttonholes.

Tip: Always test stitch on a fabric scrap before sewing your project.

Threading the Machine

Proper threading is essential for good stitch quality.

1. Raise presser foot and needle to highest position using handwheel.
2. Place thread spool on spool pin.
3. Follow threading guide numbers on machine: Guide thread through tension discs, take-up lever, and finally through needle eye from front to back.
4. Pull about 4 inches of thread under presser foot toward back of machine.
5. For bobbin threading, ensure thread unwinds in direction indicated by arrow in bobbin case.

WARNING! Ensure machine is off or foot pedal is not pressed during threading.

Basic Sewing Operations

Start sewing after threading and fabric placement.

1. Position fabric: Place fabric under presser foot, lower presser foot lever.
2. Start sewing: Gently press foot pedal to begin. Guide fabric gently; do not push or pull.
3. Reverse: Hold reverse lever to sew a few stitches backward at start and end of seam for reinforcement.
4. Turning corners: Stop with needle down in fabric, raise presser foot, pivot fabric, lower foot, continue sewing.
5. Finishing: Raise needle to highest position, raise presser foot, pull fabric to back and cut threads with thread cutter or scissors.

CAUTION! Keep fingers away from moving needle. Always watch the needle area while sewing.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Unplug machine before any maintenance. Regular cleaning prevents lint buildup.

1. Remove needle plate screws and lift off needle plate.
2. Use small brush to remove lint from feed dogs, bobbin area, and hook.
3. Wipe exterior with soft, dry cloth.
4. Oil as instructed in manual (if required) using only sewing machine oil.
5. Replace needle regularly (every 8-10 hours of sewing or if damaged).

CAUTION! Do not use compressed air to clean; it can force lint deeper. Never spray lubricants.

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 1-800-284-4357. This product conforms to applicable safety standards.

Troubleshooting

Reset: Unplug machine for 2 minutes if electronic issues occur.

Service: 1-800-284-4357; www.brother-usa.com