Brother Sewing Machine Model ST371HD Manual

The Brother ST371HD is a heavy-duty, mechanical sewing machine designed for a wide variety of fabrics, from delicate silks to heavy denim. It features 37 built-in stitches, a one-step automatic buttonholer, a drop-in bobbin system, a built-in needle threader, and a heavy-duty metal frame for stability. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Heavy-duty metal frame, 37 built-in stitches, automatic needle threader, drop-in bobbin, free arm, built-in accessory storage.

Unpacking and Setup

Carefully unpack all components and place the machine on a stable, well-lit table.

1. Remove all packaging materials from the machine and accessories.
2. Place the machine on a sturdy table near a power outlet.
3. Attach the foot controller plug to the machine port and plug the power cord into the wall outlet.
4. Install the needle, thread the machine, and wind the bobbin as described in the Getting Started section.

WARNING! Keep hands away from all moving parts, especially the needle and handwheel, during operation and setup.

Getting Started

Power on the machine using the power switch; the LED light will turn on.

1. Winding the Bobbin: Place thread on spool pin, guide through bobbin winding tension, place bobbin on winder, push to right, and press foot controller.
2. Installing the Bobbin: Open the cover, drop in the bobbin with thread running counter-clockwise, pull thread through the slot and under the tension spring.
3. Threading the Upper Thread: Raise presser foot and needle to highest position. Follow numbered guides on machine, then use the automatic needle threader lever.
4. Drawing Up the Bobbin Thread: Hold the upper thread tail, turn the handwheel toward you one full rotation to bring the bobbin thread up through the needle plate.

CAUTION! Always turn the handwheel toward you (counter-clockwise) only. Never force it.

Specifications

• Model: Brother ST371HD.
• Type: Mechanical, Heavy-Duty.
• Stitches: 37 Built-in Stitches (Utility, Decorative, Stretch, Buttonhole).
• Buttonholes: 1 One-step automatic buttonhole.
• Needle Threading: Automatic built-in needle threader.
• Bobbin: Drop-in, Class 15 transparent bobbin.
• Max Stitch Length: 4 mm.
• Max Stitch Width: 5 mm.
• Presser Feet: 6 Included (Buttonhole foot, zipper foot, button sewing foot, etc.).
• Power Supply: 120V AC, 60Hz.
• Warranty: 25-year limited warranty.

Parts and Controls

Main Controls: Stitch Selection Dial, Stitch Length Dial, Stitch Width Dial, Reverse Sew Lever, Power/Speed Control Lever.

Front Panel: Handwheel, Spool Pins, Thread Guides, Tension Dial, Needle Clamp Screw, Presser Foot Lever, Drop-in Bobbin Cover, Free Arm Release.

Stitch Selection: Turn dial to select desired stitch pattern (numbered 1-37). Stitch Length: Adjust for longer or shorter stitches (0-4). Stitch Width: Adjust for zigzag and decorative stitches (0-5). Tension: Adjust upper thread tension dial (usually set between 3-5 for general sewing).

Basic Sewing Operations

Raise presser foot, position fabric under foot, lower presser foot, and gently press foot controller to start sewing.

1. Straight Stitch: Select stitch pattern 1 or 2. Guide fabric gently, letting the feed dogs move it.
2. Zigzag Stitch: Select a zigzag pattern (e.g., 3-6). Use to finish edges or for stretch fabrics.
3. Reverse Stitching: Hold the Reverse Sew Lever to sew backwards for a few stitches to secure seams.
4. Changing Direction: Stop with needle in fabric, raise presser foot, pivot fabric, lower foot, continue sewing.

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

Stitch Selection and Settings

Refer to the stitch chart on the machine or manual for recommended settings.

1. Utility Stitches (1-6): For seams, finishing, and mending. Use medium length/width.
2. Decorative Stitches (7-30): For embellishment. Often require a wider width setting.
3. Stretch Stitches (31-37): For knits and elastic fabrics. Use to prevent popped seams.
4. Buttonhole Stitch (marked): Attach buttonhole foot, select buttonhole stitch, place fabric under foot, and press foot controller. The machine will sew one complete buttonhole automatically.

WARNING! Do not change the stitch selection dial while the needle is in the fabric or the machine is running.

Maintenance and Cleaning

Unplug the machine before any maintenance. Regularly clean lint and dust from the bobbin area and feed dogs.

1. Cleaning: Use the small brush provided to remove lint from around the bobbin case, feed dogs, and needle plate.
2. Oiling: This machine requires minimal oiling. If necessary, use only high-quality sewing machine oil on points indicated in the manual (e.g., hook race). Wipe away excess oil.
3. Needle Replacement: Turn handwheel to raise needle, loosen needle clamp screw, remove old needle, insert new needle with flat side to the back, push up firmly, and tighten screw.

CAUTION! Never use compressed air to clean the machine as it can force lint into the mechanism.

Accessories

Included accessories: Buttonhole Foot, Zipper Foot, Button Sewing Foot, Narrow Hemmer Foot, Blind Stitch Foot, Overcasting Foot, Seam Ripper/Lint Brush, Bobbins (4), Needles (3), Screwdriver, Eyelet Punch, Spool Caps, Instruction Manual.

Optional: Walking Foot, Quilting Guide, Extension Table available for purchase separately.

Regulatory Information

FCC Compliance: This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Copyright © Brother Industries, Ltd. The Brother logo 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.

Troubleshooting

Reset: Unplug machine for 60 seconds to reset internal electronics if display or buttons are unresponsive.

Service: 1-877-888-5522; www.brother-usa.com