Brother Sewing Machine LS14S Manual

The Brother LS14S is a versatile and user-friendly sewing machine designed for beginners and home sewers. It features 14 built-in stitches, a 4-step buttonhole, easy threading, adjustable stitch length and width, free arm capability, and a built-in light. Powered by 120V AC, it is ideal for basic sewing, mending, and creative projects. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Sewing machine head, Free arm, Stitch selection dial, Stitch length/width controls, Bobbin winder, Built-in light, Foot pedal, Power cord, Accessory storage.

Unpacking and Setup

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

1. Remove machine from box: Lift by the carrying handle, not by the free arm.
2. Attach accessory tray: Slide onto front of machine to cover free arm.
3. Connect foot pedal: Plug into socket on right side of machine.
4. Connect power: Plug power cord into machine, then into 120V AC outlet.
5. Install needle: Loosen needle clamp screw, insert needle with flat side to back, tighten screw.

WARNING! Machine is heavy; lift with care. Ensure work area is clean and well-lit.

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; built-in light will turn on.

1. Wind bobbin: Place thread on spool pin, guide through bobbin winder tension disc, wind onto bobbin.
2. Insert bobbin: Place bobbin into bobbin case with thread running counterclockwise.
3. Thread upper thread: Follow numbered path on machine from spool to needle.
4. Select stitch: Turn stitch selection dial to desired pattern (e.g., straight stitch).
5. Test sew: Place fabric under presser foot, lower foot, and gently press foot pedal.

CAUTION! Keep fingers away from needle while machine is running. Always turn power off when threading or changing needle.

Specifications

• Model: Brother LS14S.
• Stitches: 14 built-in stitches.
• Buttonhole: 4-step manual buttonhole.
• Stitch Length: Adjustable up to 4mm.
• Stitch Width: Adjustable up to 5mm for zigzag.
• Speed: Up to 750 stitches per minute.
• Needle: Household sewing machine needle (size 11/75 or 14/90).
• Bobbin: Class 15 transparent bobbin.
• Power Source: 120V AC, 60Hz.
• Dimensions: Compact design with free arm capability.
• Weight: Approximately 11 lbs (5 kg).

Controls and Settings

Main controls located on front and right side of machine.

Stitch Selection Dial: Turn to select stitch pattern (symbols indicate stitch type). Stitch Length Dial: Adjusts stitch length (0-4). Stitch Width Dial: Adjusts zigzag width (0-5). Reverse Stitch Button: Hold to sew in reverse for reinforcement. Foot Pedal: Controls sewing speed; press lightly for slow, fully for fast.

Settings: Thread tension dial (usually set to 4 for balanced stitches), presser foot pressure (adjustable for different fabrics), drop feed lever (for free-motion work).

Stitch Selection and Usage

Refer to stitch chart on machine for pattern numbers and recommended uses.

1. Straight Stitch (Pattern 1): For seams, topstitching; adjust length for fabric weight.
2. Zigzag Stitch (Pattern 2-4): For finishing edges, appliqué, stretch fabrics; adjust width as needed.
3. Blind Hem Stitch (Pattern 5): For nearly invisible hems on garments.
4. Stretch Stitches (Pattern 6-7): For knit fabrics to prevent popped seams.
5. Decorative Stitches (Pattern 8-14): For embellishment; use with matching thread.
6. 4-Step Buttonhole: Select pattern A, follow steps 1-4 marked on machine.

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

Threading and Bobbin Winding

Proper threading is essential for smooth operation.

1. Upper Threading: Place spool on pin, follow numbered path through tension discs, take-up lever, and needle. Use automatic needle threader if equipped.
2. Bobbin Winding: Place empty bobbin on winder shaft, engage bobbin winder stopper, press foot pedal to wind. Stop when bobbin is full.
3. Inserting Bobbin: Place bobbin in case with thread unwinding counterclockwise; pull thread through slot and under tension spring.
4. Drawing Up Bobbin Thread: Hold upper thread, turn handwheel toward you to lower and raise needle; pull upper thread to bring bobbin thread up through needle plate.

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

Maintenance & Cleaning

Unplug machine before any maintenance.

1. Cleaning: Remove needle plate screws; use small brush to remove lint from feed dogs and bobbin area.
2. Oiling: Apply one drop of sewing machine oil to hook race and other moving parts as per manual (do not over-oil).
3. Needle Replacement: Replace needle after every project or if bent/dull.
4. Storage: Cover machine when not in use to prevent dust accumulation.

CAUTION! Use only recommended sewing machine oil. Never use household oils.

Safety Information

Always follow safety guidelines to prevent injury or damage.

• Disconnect power when threading, changing needle, or cleaning.
• Keep fingers away from moving parts, especially needle.
• Do not sew over pins; remove them as you sew.
• Use correct needle and thread for fabric type.
• Ensure ventilation; do not cover machine while operating.
• Keep machine out of reach of children and pets.

Warranty & Support

Brother International Corporation provides a limited warranty. For support, visit www.brother-usa.com or contact 1-877-467-4289. Register your product online for warranty validation. Copyright © Brother Industries, Ltd. All rights reserved.

Troubleshooting

Reset: Unplug machine for 5 minutes to reset electronic components if issues persist.

Service: For repairs, contact authorized Brother service center at 1-877-467-4289.