brother sewing machine manual model lx3817a

The Brother LX3817A is a versatile and user-friendly mechanical sewing machine designed for beginners and home sewers. It features 17 built-in stitches, a 4-step buttonhole, automatic needle threading, a drop-in bobbin system, and adjustable stitch length and width. Powered by a standard household outlet, it comes with essential accessories for basic sewing, mending, and crafting projects. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Mechanical sewing machine with built-in stitches, automatic needle threader, drop-in bobbin, stitch length/width dials, and included accessories.

Machine Overview & Parts

Identify main parts for proper operation.

1. Front: Handwheel, stitch selector dial, stitch length dial, stitch width dial, reverse stitch button.
2. Top: Spool pin, thread guide, automatic needle threader, tension dial, presser foot lever.
3. Needle Area: Needle clamp screw, needle, presser foot, needle plate.
4. Bobbin Area: Bobbin cover, bobbin, bobbin case.
5. Free Arm: Accessory storage, removable flat bed.
6. Back: Power switch, power cord socket, foot control socket.

WARNING! Keep fingers away from moving needle. Always turn handwheel toward you.

Setup & Installation

Unpack and assemble machine on stable table.

1. Place machine on flat, sturdy surface.
2. Attach power cord to machine and plug into wall outlet.
3. Connect foot control pedal to machine.
4. Install needle: Loosen needle clamp screw, insert needle with flat side back, tighten screw.
5. Attach presser foot: Lower presser foot lever, align foot shank, lower lever to lock.
6. Wind bobbin: Follow threading diagram; place bobbin on winder spindle.
7. Insert bobbin: Open cover, drop bobbin in case with thread unwinding counterclockwise.

CAUTION! Ensure machine is unplugged during needle and bobbin installation.

Specifications

• Model: Brother LX3817A
• Type: Mechanical Sewing Machine
• Stitches: 17 built-in stitches
• Buttonhole: 4-step manual
• Max Stitch Length: 4mm
• Max Stitch Width: 5mm
• Speed: Up to 800 stitches per minute
• Needle: Home sewing machine needles (size 11/75 recommended)
• Bobbin: Class 15 transparent bobbin
• Power Supply: 120V AC, 60Hz
• Dimensions: Compact design for easy storage
• Weight: Lightweight for portability

Basic Operation

Power on machine; select stitch; begin sewing.

1. Turn power switch to "I" (on).
2. Raise presser foot and place fabric under foot.
3. Lower presser foot lever.
4. Gently press foot control to start sewing. Control speed with pedal pressure.
5. Guide fabric gently; do not push or pull.
6. Press reverse stitch button at beginning and end of seam to lock stitches.
7. Raise presser foot and pull fabric back to cut thread.

Tip: Practice on scrap fabric to adjust speed and tension.

Stitch Selection & Settings

Use dials to select and adjust stitches.

Stitch Selector Dial: Turn to choose stitch pattern (1-17). Refer to stitch chart.

Stitch Length Dial: Adjust for shorter (0-2) or longer (2-4) stitches. Use shorter for finer fabrics.

Stitch Width Dial: Adjust for zigzag and decorative stitches (0-5mm). Set to 0 for straight stitch.

Tension Dial: Usually set to 4. Adjust if stitches are loose (increase) or puckered (decrease).

Buttonhole: Use stitch #15. Follow 4-step process marked on machine.

Threading & Bobbin Winding

Correct threading is essential for proper stitch formation.

1. Upper Threading: Follow numbered guides on machine. Use automatic needle threader: Lower lever, hook thread, release lever.
2. Bobbin Winding: Place spool on pin, thread through guide, wrap thread around bobbin 3-4 times, push bobbin winder to right, press foot pedal.
3. Bobbin Insertion: Open cover, drop bobbin so thread unwinds counterclockwise, pull thread through slot, under tension spring, and to right.
4. Drawing Up Bobbin Thread: Hold upper thread, turn handwheel toward you until needle goes down and up, pull upper thread to bring bobbin thread up.

WARNING! Ensure presser foot is raised when threading upper thread.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular cleaning ensures optimal performance.

1. Unplug machine before cleaning.
2. Remove needle plate screws; lift plate to access bobbin area.
3. Use small brush to remove lint and dust from feed dogs, bobbin case, and surrounding area.
4. Wipe exterior with soft, dry cloth.
5. Oil sparingly as per manual instructions (if required).
6. Replace needle regularly (after 8-10 hours of sewing).

CAUTION! Do not use compressed air or liquids for cleaning.

Accessories

Included accessories for various sewing tasks.

• All-purpose foot (on machine)
• Buttonhole foot
• Zipper foot
• Button sewing foot
• Bobbin (3 pcs)
• Needle set
• Seam ripper/Lint brush
• Screwdriver
• Spool cap (large and small)
• Instruction manual

Storage: Keep accessories in built-in compartment or provided case.

Safety Information

Always follow safety guidelines to prevent injury and damage.

• Unplug machine when not in use, during threading, needle changes, and cleaning.
• Keep fingers away from moving needle and other moving parts.
• Do not use bent or damaged needles.
• Ensure proper ventilation; do not cover machine during operation.
• Use correct power supply (120V AC).
• Keep machine out of reach of children.

Emergency: Turn power switch to "O" (off) immediately if malfunction occurs.

Troubleshooting

Reset: Unplug machine for 1 minute if electronic issues occur.

Service: For repairs, contact authorized Brother service center. Visit www.brother-usa.com or call 1-877-467-4289.