Brother Sewing Machine Model LX3817G Manual

The Brother LX3817G is a versatile, lightweight sewing machine designed for beginners and home crafters. It features 17 built-in stitches, a 4-step buttonhole, easy stitch selection dial, built-in free arm, automatic bobbin winding, adjustable stitch length and width, and a drop feed for free-motion sewing. Powered by standard household current. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Main body with stitch dial, Presser foot, Needle clamp, Bobbin winder, Reverse stitch lever, Free arm, Foot pedal, Power cord.

Unpacking and Setup

Unpack all contents from the box and place on a stable, flat surface.

1. Remove machine and accessories from packaging materials.
2. Attach the accessory tray to the free arm if detached.
3. Plug the foot pedal into the machine, then plug the power cord into a standard 120V AC outlet.
4. Install the needle: Loosen needle clamp screw, insert needle with flat side to the back, tighten screw.
5. Wind the bobbin: Place thread on spool pin, guide through bobbin winder tension, place empty bobbin on winder shaft, push shaft to right, press foot pedal.
6. Insert bobbin: Open bobbin cover, drop in bobbin with thread unwinding counterclockwise, pull thread through slot.

WARNING! Keep fingers away from moving parts. Ensure machine is unplugged during needle/bobbin installation.

First-Time Operation

Thread the machine and perform a test sew on scrap fabric.

1. Raise presser foot using lever.
2. Thread upper thread: Follow numbered guides from spool pin to needle (1-2-3-4).
3. Pull up bobbin thread: Hold upper thread, turn handwheel toward you to lower and raise needle, pull loop to bring up bobbin thread.
4. Place fabric under presser foot, lower presser foot lever.
5. Select a straight stitch (position 1 on dial).
6. Gently press foot pedal to start sewing. Guide fabric lightly.
7. Use reverse lever at start and end to lock stitches.

CAUTION! Always turn handwheel toward you (counterclockwise) only. Never sew over pins.

Specifications

• Model: Brother LX3817G
• Stitches: 17 Built-in stitches
• Buttonhole: 4-Step manual buttonhole
• Stitch Length: Adjustable up to 4mm
• Stitch Width: Adjustable up to 5mm
• Speed: Variable, controlled by foot pedal
• Needle: Standard household sewing machine needle (HAx1)
• Bobbin: Class 15 transparent bobbin
• Free Arm: Yes, removable accessory tray
• Power Supply: 120V AC, 60Hz
• Weight: Approximately 11 lbs (5 kg)
• Included Accessories: Buttonhole foot, Zipper foot, Button sewing foot, Darning plate, Bobbins (3), Needles (3), Screwdriver, Brush, Seam ripper

Controls and Functions

Main controls located on the right side of the machine.

Stitch Selection Dial: Turn to select one of 17 stitch patterns. Pattern numbers correspond to stitch chart.

Stitch Length Dial: Adjusts length of stitch (0-4). Higher number = longer stitch. Set to "0" for bobbin winding.

Stitch Width Dial: Adjusts width of zigzag and other wide stitches (0-5). Set to "0" for straight stitch.

Reverse Stitch Lever: Hold down to sew in reverse.

Handwheel: Turn toward you to manually raise/lower needle. Pull outward to disengage for bobbin winding.

Presser Foot Lever: Raises and lowers presser foot.

Drop Feed Lever: Lowers feed dogs for darning or free-motion sewing.

Stitch Selection Guide

Refer to stitch chart on machine or manual for pattern details.

Tip: Always test stitch on a scrap of your project fabric first.

Basic Sewing Techniques

1. Starting to Sew: Position fabric, lower presser foot. Hold both thread tails. Press foot pedal gently.
2. Securing Stitches: Sew a few stitches forward, hold reverse lever to sew 3-4 stitches backward, release and continue forward.
3. Changing Direction: Stop with needle down in fabric, raise presser foot, pivot fabric, lower presser foot, continue sewing.
4. Making a 4-Step Buttonhole:
   • Step 1 (Side 1): Select buttonhole stitch, sew left side.
   • Step 2 (Bar tack): Turn dial to next step, sew forward few stitches.
   • Step 3 (Side 2): Turn dial, sew right side.
   • Step 4 (Bar tack): Turn dial, sew forward to complete.
5. Zipper Insertion: Use zipper foot. Baste zipper area, attach foot, stitch close to zipper teeth.
6. Free-Motion Sewing/Darning: Lower feed dogs using drop feed lever. Move fabric manually in any direction.

WARNING! Always keep fingers away from the needle area while machine is running.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular cleaning ensures smooth operation and longevity.

1. Daily: Remove lint from bobbin area and feed dogs using the provided brush.
2. Needle: Replace bent or dull needles immediately. Use correct needle type for fabric.
3. Oiling: This machine is permanently lubricated at the factory. Do not oil unless specified in manual.
4. Exterior: Wipe with soft, dry cloth. Do not use solvents or sprays.
5. Storage: Cover machine when not in use to prevent dust accumulation.

CAUTION! Unplug machine before any cleaning or maintenance. Never immerse in water.

Safety Information

• This appliance is not intended for use by persons (including children) with reduced physical, sensory or mental capabilities.
• Close supervision is necessary when any appliance is used by or near children.
• Unplug the appliance from the outlet when not in use, before cleaning, or during maintenance.
• Do not operate with a damaged cord or plug, or if machine has been dropped or damaged.
• Keep fingers, hair, and loose clothing away from moving parts.
• Do not use outdoors or operate where aerosol (spray) products are being used.
• Never remove the face plate while the machine is plugged in.

Troubleshooting

For Service: Contact Brother Customer Service at 1-800-284-4357 or visit www.brother-usa.com. Have model number (LX3817G) ready.