Brother Sewing Machine CS6000i Manual

The Brother CS6000i is a versatile, feature-rich computerized sewing machine designed for beginners and experienced sewers alike. It offers 60 built-in stitches, an automatic needle threader, a drop-in top bobbin system, a wide table for larger projects, adjustable sewing speed, and a bright LED work light. Below are key sections covering 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 Functions 6. Stitch Selection and Settings 7. Threading and Bobbin Winding 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Main sewing unit, Wide table, Foot pedal, Power cord, Accessory kit (presser feet, bobbins, needles, seam ripper, cleaning brush, screwdriver), Instruction manual.

FeatureDescription
Built-in Stitches60 unique stitches including utility, decorative, and heirloom
Automatic Needle ThreaderEasily threads the needle with a simple lever pull
Drop-in Top BobbinEasy-to-see, jam-resistant bobbin system
Wide TableExtends work area for quilting and large projects
Adjustable Speed ControlSlider to set maximum sewing speed
LED Work LightBrightly illuminates the sewing area
Easy Stitch SelectionTurn dial to select stitch; settings adjust automatically
Automatic ButtonholeOne-step automatic buttonhole foot
Free ArmConvertible for sewing sleeves and cuffs
Presser FeetIncludes zigzag, buttonhole, zipper, blind stitch, and more

Unpacking and Setup

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

  1. Attach the Wide Table: Slide the table onto the free arm until it clicks into place.
  2. Connect the Foot Pedal: Plug the foot pedal cord into the port on the right side of the machine.
  3. Connect Power: Plug the power cord into the machine and then into a standard 120V AC outlet.
  4. Install the Accessories: Store accessories in the built-in accessory compartment.

WARNING! Keep hands away from the needle and moving parts during operation. Always turn off and unplug the machine before changing needles or performing maintenance.

First-Time Operation

Power on the machine using the main power switch; the LED light will turn on.

  1. Wind and Insert the Bobbin: Follow the marked path on the machine to wind thread onto a bobbin, then drop it into the bobbin case.
  2. Thread the Upper Thread: Follow the numbered threading path from spool to needle, using the automatic needle threader.
  3. Select a Stitch: Turn the stitch selection dial to a basic straight stitch (like #01) for practice.
  4. Practice Sewing: Place fabric under the presser foot, lower the foot, and gently press the foot pedal to start sewing.

CAUTION! Always use the correct needle and thread for your fabric. A bent or dull needle can cause skipped stitches or damage.

Specifications

Controls and Functions

Front Panel: Main Power Switch, Stitch Selection Dial, Stitch Width/Length Adjustment Buttons, Reverse Stitch Button, Needle Up/Down Button.

Additional Features: Automatic needle threader lever, Bobbin winding post, Thread tension dial, Presser foot lever, Handwheel.

Stitch Settings: Use the +/- buttons to adjust stitch length and width for selected stitches. The Reverse button reinforces the beginning and end of a seam. The Needle Position button raises or lowers the needle with a single press.

Stitch Selection and Settings

Turn the stitch selection dial to choose from 60 stitches. The LCD screen (if applicable on your model) or the stitch chart on the machine shows the selected stitch.

  1. Select a stitch number using the dial.
  2. For adjustable stitches, use the Width and Length buttons to customize.
  3. For buttonholes: Attach the buttonhole foot, select the buttonhole stitch, and follow the automatic process.
  4. Always test your stitch settings on a scrap piece of fabric before sewing your project.

Tip: Refer to the stitch chart in the manual or on the machine for recommended presser feet and fabric settings.

Threading and Bobbin Winding

Proper threading is essential for smooth operation.

  1. Winding the Bobbin: Place thread spool on pin, guide thread through bobbin winding tension, wrap around empty bobbin, push bobbin onto post, and press foot pedal.
  2. Upper Threading: Follow the numbered path: Spool pin > thread guides > tension discs > take-up lever > needle bar thread guide. Use the automatic needle threader for the final step.
  3. Inserting Bobbin: Drop the wound bobbin into the case with thread unwinding counter-clockwise. Pull the thread under the tension spring and through the slot.
  4. Drawing Up Bobbin Thread: Hold the upper thread tail, turn the handwheel toward you to lower and raise the needle, then pull the upper thread to bring the bobbin thread up through the needle plate.

WARNING! Ensure the presser foot is raised when threading the upper thread to allow the thread to seat properly in the tension discs.

Care & Maintenance

Unplug the machine before any cleaning or maintenance.

  1. Cleaning: Use the provided brush to remove lint and dust from the feed dogs, bobbin area, and needle plate. Wipe the exterior with a soft, dry cloth.
  2. Oiling: This machine is designed for minimal user oiling. Refer to the manual for specific oiling points, if necessary. Use only sewing machine oil.
  3. Needle Replacement: Turn off the machine. Loosen the needle clamp screw, remove the old needle, and insert a new one with the flat side facing the back. Tighten the screw firmly.
  4. Storage: Cover the machine when not in use to prevent dust accumulation.

CAUTION! Never use compressed air to clean the machine, as it can force lint deeper into the mechanism. Do not use household oils or solvents.

Regulatory Information

FCC Compliance: This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Copyright © Brother Industries, Ltd. For support, visit the official Brother website at support.brother.com or contact Brother customer service. This product may be covered by one or more patents. See the manual for details.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Machine does not runNot plugged in / Power switch offCheck power cord connection; ensure main switch is ON.
Thread bunching underneath (bird nesting)Incorrect threading / Bobbin inserted wrongRe-thread the upper thread and bobbin, ensuring correct direction and path.
Skipped stitchesBent needle / Wrong needle for fabricReplace the needle with a new, correct type (e.g., ballpoint for knits).
Needle breaksWrong needle size / Pulling fabric / Bent needleUse correct needle size; let feed dogs move fabric; don't force or pull.
Uneven stitchesIncorrect thread tensionAdjust the thread tension dial; re-thread completely.
Fabric not feedingFeed dogs lowered / Presser foot pressureCheck that feed dogs are in the raised position (lever).

Reset: Turn the machine off and unplug it for 60 seconds to reset the computer if it becomes unresponsive.

Service: For persistent issues, contact Brother Customer Service or an authorized Brother service center. Do not attempt to disassemble the machine yourself.

Brother Sewing Machine CS6000i Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025