The Brother JX2517 is a versatile, user-friendly mechanical sewing machine designed for beginners and home sewers. It features 17 built-in stitches, a 4-step buttonhole, easy stitch selection dial, free arm capability, built-in LED light, and adjustable stitch length and width. It is powered by a standard household outlet (120V, 60Hz). Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.
Key components: Main body with free arm, stitch selection dial, handwheel, bobbin winder, presser foot, needle plate, and accessory storage.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Built-in Stitches | 17 stitches including straight, zigzag, blind hem, and decorative stitches |
| Buttonhole | 4-step, easy-to-follow buttonhole function |
| Stitch Selection Dial | Turn to select desired stitch pattern |
| Free Arm | Removable accessory tray for sewing cuffs and sleeves |
| Built-in LED Light | Illuminates the sewing area |
| Adjustable Stitch Length | Control dial for stitch length (0-4 mm) |
| Adjustable Stitch Width | Control dial for stitch width (0-5 mm for zigzag) |
| Reverse Sewing Lever | For reinforcing stitches at beginning and end of seams |
| Drop Feed | Lever to lower feed dogs for free-motion sewing or darning |
| Power/Foot Control | Includes foot pedal for speed control |
Unpack and inspect all contents. Place on a stable, flat surface.
WARNING! Keep fingers away from the needle area during operation. Always turn the power off and unplug the machine when changing needles, cleaning, or performing maintenance.
Power on the machine using the foot control; familiarize yourself with basic controls.
CAUTION! Always use the correct needle and thread for your fabric type. Ensure the presser foot is lowered before sewing.
Main controls are located on the front and right side of the machine.
Stitch Selection Dial: Turn to choose from 17 stitch patterns. Stitch Length Dial: Controls the distance between stitches (0-4). Stitch Width Dial: Controls the side-to-side width of zigzag and decorative stitches (0-5). Reverse Sewing Lever: Hold down to sew in reverse. Handwheel: Manually raise/lower the needle. Turn towards you. Bobbin Winder Spindle & Stopper: For winding the bobbin. Drop Feed Lever: Lowers feed dogs for darning or free-motion work.
Refer to the stitch chart on the machine or manual. Common uses:
Tip: Always test your stitch settings on a scrap piece of your project fabric first.
Correct threading is essential for proper stitch formation.
WARNING! Ensure the presser foot is raised when threading the upper thread to allow the thread to seat properly in the tension discs.
Unplug the machine before any maintenance.
CAUTION! Never use compressed air to clean the machine as it can force lint deeper into the mechanism. Use only sewing machine oil.
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the condition that this device does not cause harmful interference. Copyright © Brother Industries, Ltd. "Brother" is a registered trademark of Brother Industries, Ltd. For support, visit www.brother-usa.com or contact Brother Customer Service at 1-877-888-5522.
| Symptom | Possible Cause | Corrective Action |
|---|---|---|
| Thread bunching underneath (bird's nest) | Incorrect bobbin threading; upper thread not in tension discs. | Re-thread bobbin and upper thread completely, ensuring presser foot is up when threading top. |
| Skipped stitches | Dull/bent needle; wrong needle for fabric. | Replace needle with a new, correct type (e.g., ballpoint for knits). |
| Machine not feeding fabric | Feed dogs are lowered; stitch length set to 0. | Check drop feed lever is in UP position; adjust stitch length dial. |
| Needle breaks | Needle incorrectly inserted; pulling fabric; bent needle. | Ensure needle is fully up and tightened, flat side to back. Let machine feed fabric; don't pull. |
| Uneven or loose stitches | Incorrect thread tension. | For top tension too loose, increase dial number. Test on scrap fabric. |
| Machine doesn't run | Not plugged in; foot control unplugged; power switch off. | Check all power connections. Ensure foot control is firmly plugged into machine. |
Reset: Unplug machine for 60 seconds to reset electronic components (if applicable). For persistent mechanical issues, consult the manual.
Service: 1-877-888-5522; www.brother-usa.com