Brother Sewing Machine LS 1717 Manual

The Brother LS 1717 is a versatile mechanical sewing machine designed for home use, featuring 17 built-in stitches, a 4-step buttonhole, free arm capability, drop feed for darning and quilting, adjustable stitch length and width, built-in needle threader, top drop-in bobbin system, and reverse sewing function. It operates on 120V AC and includes essential accessories. 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 Functions 6. Basic Sewing Techniques 7. Stitch Selection Guide 8. Maintenance & Cleaning 9. Accessories 10. Safety Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Main body with free arm, Stitch selection dial, Stitch length dial, Stitch width dial, Reverse sewing lever, Bobbin winder, Handwheel, Foot pedal, Power cord.

FeatureDescription
Built-in stitches17 stitches including straight, zigzag, blind hem, and stretch stitches
4-step buttonholeEasy manual buttonhole creation
Free armFor sewing cylindrical items like sleeves and cuffs
Drop feed dogLowers feed teeth for darning, free-motion quilting
Top drop-in bobbinEasy bobbin insertion and viewing
Built-in needle threaderAssists in threading the needle
Reverse sewing leverReinforces stitch beginnings and ends
Stitch length dialAdjusts stitch length (0-4 mm)
Stitch width dialAdjusts stitch width (0-5 mm for zigzag)
Accessory storageBuilt-in compartment in free arm

Unpacking and Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable table.

  1. Remove machine from box: Lift by carrying handle; remove all packaging.
  2. Install foot pedal: Connect to machine port; place on floor.
  3. Connect power: Plug power cord into machine and 120V AC outlet.
  4. Attach accessories: Install presser foot, needle, and thread spool pin.
  5. Wind bobbin: Follow bobbin winding instructions.

WARNING! Keep hands clear of needle area during setup. Ensure machine is unplugged when attaching accessories.

First-Time Operation

Plug in machine; follow steps to thread and sew.

  1. Thread upper thread: Follow numbered guides; use needle threader.
  2. Insert bobbin: Place bobbin in case; pull thread through slot.
  3. Select stitch: Turn stitch dial to desired pattern (e.g., straight stitch).
  4. Adjust settings: Set stitch length (2.5 mm default) and width.
  5. Test sew: Place fabric under presser foot; lower foot; press pedal slowly.

CAUTION! Always turn handwheel toward you (counterclockwise). Keep fingers away from moving needle.

Specifications

Controls and Functions

Main controls: Stitch selection dial, Stitch length dial, Stitch width dial, Reverse lever, Handwheel, Power switch.

Stitch dial: Turn to select stitch pattern (icons indicate stitch type). Length dial: Adjusts stitch length (0 for bobbin winding). Width dial: Adjusts zigzag width; set to 0 for straight stitch. Reverse lever: Hold down to sew backwards. Handwheel: Manually raise/lower needle; always turn toward you. Presser foot lever: Raises/lowers presser foot. Bobbin winder: Winds thread onto bobbin.

Basic Sewing Techniques

Follow these steps for general sewing.

  1. Prepare fabric: Use appropriate needle and thread for fabric type.
  2. Thread machine: Upper thread and bobbin as per diagram.
  3. Select stitch: Choose pattern for project (e.g., zigzag for stretch).
  4. Position fabric: Lower presser foot; guide fabric gently.
  5. Start sewing: Press foot pedal lightly; use reverse at start/end.
  6. Finish: Raise needle; lift presser foot; pull fabric to back; trim threads.

Tip: Practice on scrap fabric first. Adjust tension if stitches are loose/tight.

Stitch Selection Guide

Stitch patterns and recommended uses.

  1. Straight stitch (1): Basic sewing, seams, topstitching.
  2. Zigzag stitch (3): Overcasting, stretch fabrics, appliqué.
  3. Blind hem stitch (5): Nearly invisible hems on garments.
  4. Elastic stitch (7): Sewing elastic, decorative stitching.
  5. Buttonhole (marked steps 1-4): Create buttonholes manually.
  6. Decorative stitches: Patterns 9-17 for embellishment.

Note: Refer to stitch chart on machine for visual guide. Adjust width/length as needed.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Unplug before maintenance. Clean lint regularly.

  1. Remove needle plate: Use screwdriver; clean lint from feed dog area.
  2. Clean bobbin area: Remove bobbin case; brush out lint.
  3. Oil machine: Apply sewing machine oil to moving parts per manual (sparingly).
  4. Needle replacement: Insert new needle with flat side toward back.

CAUTION! Do not use compressed air; it can force lint deeper. Use only recommended oil.

Accessories

Included accessories: Zigzag foot, Buttonhole foot, Zipper foot, Button sewing foot, Darning plate, Bobbins (2), Needles (2), Screwdriver, Brush, Seam ripper, Spool caps.

Additional: Purchase Brother accessories as needed (e.g., walking foot).

Safety Information

Always unplug when not in use, during threading, needle changes, or cleaning. Keep fingers away from needle. Do not sew over pins. Use proper ventilation if oiling. Keep out of reach of children. For support, visit www.brother-usa.com or contact 1-800-284-4357.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Machine not runningPower/unpluggedEnsure power cord plugged in; check outlet; turn power switch on.
Thread bunching underneathIncorrect threading/bobbinRe-thread upper and bobbin thread; ensure bobbin inserted correctly.
Needle breaksWrong needle/bent needleReplace needle; ensure correct type/size; do not pull fabric.
Uneven stitchesTension issuesAdjust thread tension dial; re-thread; check bobbin.
Fabric not feedingFeed dog loweredRaise feed dog (lever at back); clean feed dog area.
Noisy operationLint/lack of oilClean and oil machine as per manual.

Reset: Unplug for 5 minutes if electrical issue.

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

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