Brother SE400 Sewing Machine Manual

The Brother SE400 is a computerized sewing and embroidery machine featuring 67 built-in stitches, 70 built-in embroidery designs, a 4" x 4" embroidery area, automatic needle threading, LCD touch screen display, USB port for importing designs, built-in lettering fonts, and a quick-set drop-in bobbin. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Main sewing unit, LCD touch screen, Embroidery unit, Foot controller, Power cord, Accessory box.

Unpacking and Setup

Unpack all contents and place machine on stable surface.

1. Remove all packaging materials and tape.
2. Place machine on sturdy table near power outlet.
3. Connect foot controller to machine port.
4. Plug power cord into machine and then into wall outlet.
5. Attach embroidery unit by aligning marks and sliding into place.

WARNING! Keep hands away from needle and moving parts during operation. Always turn power off when threading or changing accessories.

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; follow initial setup prompts on LCD screen.

1. Wind bobbin: Place thread on spool pin, guide through tension, wind onto bobbin.
2. Insert bobbin: Drop bobbin into case with thread clockwise; pull thread through slot.
3. Thread upper thread: Use automatic needle threader following numbered path.
4. Select stitch: Use LCD touch screen to choose stitch or embroidery design.
5. Test sew: Use scrap fabric to test tension and stitch quality.

CAUTION! Always use correct needle for fabric type. Replace bent or dull needles immediately.

Specifications

• Type: Computerized Sewing and Embroidery Machine.
• Stitches: 67 built-in stitches.
• Embroidery Designs: 70 built-in designs, 5 lettering fonts.
• Embroidery Area: 4" x 4" (100mm x 100mm).
• Maximum Sewing Speed: 710 stitches per minute.
• Needle Positions: Adjustable left/right.
• Display: LCD touch screen with backlight.
• Power Requirements: 120V AC, 60Hz.
• Machine Dimensions: 18.1" x 8.7" x 14.6".
• Weight: 17.6 lbs.

Controls and Functions

Access functions via LCD touch screen and physical buttons.

Front Panel: Power switch, LCD screen, Stitch selection buttons, Embroidery design buttons, USB port, Speed control slider, Start/Stop button, Reverse stitch button.

LCD Screen Menus: Stitch selection, Embroidery edit, Lettering, Design combine, Mirror image, Rotate, Resize, Thread color display. Settings: Needle up/down, Automatic thread cutter, Sound volume, Screen brightness.

Basic Adjustments: Stitch length (0.0-5.0mm), Stitch width (0.0-7.0mm), Thread tension (0-9), Embroidery speed adjustment.

Basic Sewing

Follow these steps for basic sewing operations.

1. Select stitch: Touch stitch category, then specific stitch on LCD.
2. Adjust settings: Modify length, width, and tension as needed.
3. Position fabric: Lower presser foot using lever.
4. Start sewing: Press foot controller or Start/Stop button.
5. Reverse: Hold Reverse button to reinforce stitches.
6. Finish: Raise needle, lift presser foot, remove fabric, cut threads.

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

Embroidery Functions

Machine embroidery requires embroidery unit attachment.

1. Attach embroidery unit: Ensure machine is off, slide unit until it clicks.
2. Hoop fabric: Use included hoop with stabilizer behind fabric.
3. Select design: Choose from built-in designs or import via USB.
4. Edit design: Use LCD to resize, rotate, mirror, or combine designs.
5. Thread colors: Follow on-screen prompts for color changes.
6. Start embroidery: Press Start button; machine will stop for color changes.
7. Remove hoop: After completion, remove from machine and fabric from hoop.

WARNING! Keep hands away from moving embroidery hoop during operation. Always use stabilizer appropriate for fabric.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance.

1. Daily: Brush out lint from bobbin area and feed dogs.
2. Weekly: Oil hook race and shuttle (use only Brother sewing machine oil).
3. Monthly: Clean inside of machine with soft brush.
4. As needed: Replace needle after 8-10 hours of sewing.

CAUTION! Always unplug machine before cleaning or maintenance. Never use compressed air as it can force lint deeper into machine.

Accessories

Standard accessories included with Brother SE400.

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 is designed for household use only.

Troubleshooting

Reset: Turn machine off and on to reset computer. For persistent issues, consult dealer.

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