Brother PS 1250 Sewing Machine Manual

The Brother PS 1250 is a versatile electronic sewing machine designed for home use, featuring 25 built-in stitches, a 4-step buttonhole, automatic needle threading, drop-in bobbin system, adjustable stitch length and width, free arm capability, and multiple presser feet. It operates on 120V AC and is suitable for a wide range of sewing projects. 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. Basic Sewing Operations 7. Advanced Functions 8. Maintenance & Cleaning 9. Regulatory Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Main sewing unit, foot controller, power cord, accessory kit, instructional materials.

FeatureDescription
Built-in Stitches25 stitches including utility, decorative, and stretch
4-Step ButtonholeEasy, automatic buttonhole creation
Automatic Needle ThreaderSimplifies threading of the needle
Drop-in Bobbin SystemTop-loading, clear-view bobbin case
Stitch Length/Width AdjustmentDial controls for customizing stitches
Free ArmRemovable extension table for cylindrical sewing
Presser Feet IncludedZigzag foot, buttonhole foot, zipper foot, button sewing foot
Reverse Sewing LeverFor reinforcing stitches
LED LightIlluminates sewing area
Power SwitchTurns machine on/off

Unpacking and Setup

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

  1. Remove machine from packaging: Lift carefully, avoiding the handwheel and needle area.
  2. Attach power cord: Plug into machine and wall outlet (120V AC).
  3. Connect foot controller: Plug into machine port.
  4. Install needle: Loosen needle clamp screw, insert needle with flat side to the back, tighten screw.
  5. Wind and insert bobbin: Follow bobbin winding instructions; place in bobbin case.
  6. Thread machine: Follow threading path indicated on machine; use automatic needle threader if needed.

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

First-Time Operation

Plug in machine, turn on power switch.

  1. Select stitch: Turn stitch selection dial to desired pattern.
  2. Adjust settings: Set stitch length and width as needed.
  3. Place fabric: Lower presser foot lever.
  4. Start sewing: Press foot controller gently.
  5. Practice: Use scrap fabric to test stitches and tension.
  6. Reverse stitching: Press reverse lever at beginning and end of seams.

CAUTION! Always turn off and unplug machine when not in use or when changing accessories.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Main Controls: Power switch, stitch selection dial, stitch length dial, stitch width dial, reverse sewing lever, presser foot lever.

Stitch Selection: Turn dial to choose from 25 stitches (numbered 1-25). Stitch Length: Adjust from 0-4mm (0 for darning). Stitch Width: Adjust from 0-5mm for zigzag and decorative stitches. Tension Control: Dial for upper thread tension (usually set to 4 for normal fabrics). Presser Feet: Snap-on system for quick changes.

Basic Sewing Operations

Straight Stitch, Zigzag Stitch, Buttonholes, Zipper Insertion.

  1. Straight stitch: Select stitch 1, adjust length as needed.
  2. Zigzag stitch: Select appropriate zigzag pattern, adjust width and length.
  3. 4-step buttonhole: Attach buttonhole foot, select buttonhole stitch, follow markings.
  4. Zipper insertion: Use zipper foot, baste zipper area, stitch slowly.

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

Advanced Functions

Decorative Stitches, Stretch Stitches, Blind Hem, Darning.

  1. Decorative stitches: Select patterns 10-25; use stabilizer for best results.
  2. Stretch stitches: Use for knit fabrics (patterns 5-9).
  3. Blind hem: Use blind hem foot and appropriate stitch.
  4. Darning: Set stitch length to 0, use darning plate or drop feed dogs.
  5. Automatic needle threader: Pull down lever, hook thread through guide, release lever.

WARNING! Do not force fabric; let feed dogs move it. Keep hands clear of moving parts.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Unplug machine before maintenance. Clean lint and dust regularly.

  1. Remove needle plate: Use screwdriver to lift plate; clean lint from feed dogs and bobbin area.
  2. Oil machine: Apply sewing machine oil to designated points as per manual (sparingly).
  3. Replace needle: Change needle after every project or if dull/bent.
  4. Cover machine: Use dust cover when not in use.

CAUTION! Use only recommended sewing machine oil. Do not use household oils.

Regulatory Information

FCC Compliance: Class B digital device; complies with Part 15 of FCC rules. Copyright © Brother Industries, Ltd. For support, visit www.brother-usa.com or contact Brother Customer Service at 1-800-284-4357.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Machine does not runPower connectionEnsure power cord is plugged in; check outlet; turn on power switch.
Thread bunching underneathIncorrect threading/bobbinRe-thread upper thread; ensure bobbin is inserted correctly.
Needle breaksWrong needle/incorrect insertionUse correct needle type; ensure needle is fully inserted and tightened.
Uneven stitchesTension settingsAdjust upper thread tension; re-thread completely.
Fabric not feedingFeed dogs lowered/dirtyCheck feed dog position; clean lint from feed dogs.
Buttonhole not formingIncorrect foot/settingsUse buttonhole foot; follow 4-step sequence precisely.

Reset: Turn off machine, unplug for 1 minute, then restart.

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

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