Brother Sewing Machine LS-2125i User Manual

The Brother LS-2125i is a lightweight, easy-to-use mechanical sewing machine ideal for beginners and everyday sewing projects. It features 25 built-in stitches, a 4-step buttonhole, automatic needle threading, a drop-in bobbin system, adjustable stitch length and width, and a free arm for sewing cuffs and sleeves. Powered by 120V AC, 60Hz. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation & Setup 3. First-Time Use 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Functions 6. Basic Sewing Operations 7. Stitch Selection & Settings 8. Maintenance & Cleaning 9. Regulatory Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Sewing machine head, Free arm, Stitch selection dial, Stitch length/width controls, Bobbin winder, Automatic needle threader, Presser foot, Power cord and foot controller.

FeatureDescription
Built-in Stitches25 stitches including utility, decorative, and stretch stitches
4-Step ButtonholeEasy manual buttonhole creation
Automatic Needle ThreaderSimplifies threading the needle
Drop-in Bobbin SystemTop-loading, easy to see and set
Free ArmRemovable accessory storage for sewing cylindrical items
Stitch Length/Width ControlAdjustable for customization
Reverse Sewing LeverFor reinforcing stitches
Presser Foot Pressure DialAdjustable for different fabric thicknesses
LED LightIlluminates the sewing area
Power Switch & Speed ControlOn/Off switch and foot controller for variable speed

Installation & Setup

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

  1. Remove all packaging materials and protective covers.
  2. Attach the free arm: Slide the accessory storage compartment off to expose the free arm.
  3. Connect the foot controller to the machine port.
  4. Plug the power cord into the machine and then into a standard 120V AC wall outlet.
  5. Raise the presser foot lever and install the needle (flat side toward the back).

WARNING! Keep fingers away from the needle and moving parts during operation. Always turn off and unplug the machine when not in use or when performing maintenance.

First-Time Use

Power on the machine; follow these steps to begin sewing.

  1. Wind the bobbin: Place thread on spool pin, guide through bobbin winder tension, and wind onto bobbin.
  2. Insert the bobbin: Drop bobbin into case under needle plate, following directional arrows.
  3. Thread the upper thread: Use the automatic needle threader or follow the numbered threading path on the machine.
  4. Raise the bobbin thread: Hold the upper thread, turn the handwheel toward you to bring the bobbin thread up through the needle plate.
  5. Select a stitch: Turn the stitch selection dial to your desired pattern (e.g., straight stitch).
  6. Place fabric under the presser foot, lower the foot, and press gently on the foot controller to start sewing.

CAUTION! Always use the correct needle and thread for your fabric type. Start with a practice scrap fabric.

Specifications

Controls and Functions

Main Controls: Stitch selection dial, Stitch length dial, Stitch width dial, Reverse sewing lever, Presser foot lever, Handwheel, Bobbin winder spindle, Power switch.

Stitch Selection Dial: Turn to select one of the 25 stitch patterns (icons and numbers correspond to the stitch chart). Stitch Length Dial: Controls the distance between stitches (0 for darning, 1-4 for sewing). Stitch Width Dial: Controls the side-to-side width of zigzag and decorative stitches. Reverse Sewing Lever: Hold down to sew in reverse for back tacking. Presser Foot Pressure Dial: Adjust for lightweight (lower number) or heavyweight (higher number) fabrics.

Basic Sewing Operations

Straight Stitch, Zigzag Stitch, Buttonhole, Reverse Sewing.

  1. Straight Stitch: Select stitch pattern #1. Adjust length as needed. Ideal for seams and topstitching.
  2. Zigzag Stitch: Select a zigzag pattern. Adjust width and length. Used for finishing edges, appliqué, and sewing stretch fabrics.
  3. 4-Step Buttonhole: Attach buttonhole foot. Follow the 4 steps marked on the machine: 1) Bar tack left side, 2) Zigzag forward, 3) Bar tack right side, 4) Zigzag backward.
  4. Reverse Sewing: Hold the reverse lever down at the beginning and end of a seam to lock stitches.

Tip: Always lower the presser foot before sewing and raise it when changing fabric position or removing your work.

Stitch Selection & Settings

Refer to the stitch chart on the machine or manual for all 25 patterns.

  1. Utility Stitches (1-6): Straight, zigzag, blind hem, stretch stitches.
  2. Decorative Stitches (7-25): Various patterns for embellishment.
  3. For each stitch, recommended settings (length/width) are suggested in the chart.
  4. Adjust tension dial if stitches are too loose (lower number) or too tight (higher number). Default setting is usually "4".
  5. Use the darning plate (covers feed dogs) for free-motion sewing like darning or quilting.

WARNING! Do not force the handwheel or dials. If they do not turn easily, check for thread jams or incorrect settings.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Unplug the machine before any maintenance. Regular cleaning ensures optimal performance.

  1. Remove the needle plate screw and lift off the plate to access the bobbin area.
  2. Use the provided lint brush to remove lint and thread bits from the bobbin case and feed dogs.
  3. Wipe the exterior with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use solvents or sprays.
  4. Oil the machine only as specified in the manual. The LS-2125i may require minimal oiling; refer to the maintenance section.
  5. Replace the needle regularly (after every 8-10 hours of sewing or with each new project).

CAUTION! Never immerse the machine in water. Keep away from moisture and heat sources.

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

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Machine does not runPower connectionEnsure power cord is plugged in and switch is ON. Check outlet.
Needle breaksIncorrect needle/thread, bent needleReplace needle. Ensure needle is inserted correctly. Use correct thread for fabric.
Thread bunches underneathBobbin not threaded correctlyRe-thread the bobbin, ensuring it follows the correct direction. Check for lint.
Uneven or skipped stitchesDull/bent needle, wrong needle typeReplace needle. Ensure correct needle for fabric (e.g., ballpoint for knits).
Fabric does not feedFeed dogs lowered, presser foot pressure too lightRaise feed dogs (lever up). Increase presser foot pressure.
Thread keeps breakingUpper threading error, tension too highRe-thread the upper path. Reduce tension setting. Check for rough spots on thread path.
Noisy operationLint buildup, need for oilClean lint from bobbin area. Apply a drop of sewing machine oil if specified.

Reset: Turn machine off and unplug for 60 seconds to reset electronic components (if applicable).

Service: For repairs, contact authorized Brother service centers. 1-800-284-4357; www.brother-usa.com

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