Brother Sewing Machine PS500 Manual

The Brother PS500 is a versatile electronic sewing machine designed for home use, featuring 50 built-in stitches, automatic needle threading, a drop-in bobbin system, adjustable stitch length and width, speed control slider, built-in buttonhole styles, and a free arm for sewing cuffs and sleeves. It operates on 120V AC and includes essential accessories. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Main body with stitch panel, Free arm, Drop-in bobbin, Presser foot, Handwheel, Foot controller, Power cord, Accessory storage.

Unpacking and Setup

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

1. Remove machine from box: Lift by carrying handle; avoid lifting by free arm.
2. Attach foot controller: Plug into machine port near power input.
3. Connect power: Plug power cord into machine and wall outlet (120V AC).
4. Install needle: Loosen needle clamp screw, insert needle flat side back, tighten.
5. Wind bobbin: Place thread on spool pin, guide through bobbin winder, press foot controller.
6. Insert bobbin: Drop bobbin into case with thread clockwise; pull thread through slot.

WARNING! Keep fingers away from needle area during setup. Ensure machine is unplugged when installing needle.

First-Time Operation

Plug in power; turn on power switch.

1. Thread upper thread: Follow numbered guides; use automatic needle threader.
2. Pull up bobbin thread: Hold upper thread, turn handwheel toward you to bring up bobbin thread.
3. Select stitch: Turn stitch selection dial to desired pattern.
4. Adjust settings: Set stitch length (2-4 for normal) and width as needed.
5. Test sew: Place fabric under presser foot, lower foot, press foot controller gently.

CAUTION! Always lower presser foot before sewing. Keep hands clear of moving needle.

Specifications

• Model: Brother PS500.
• Stitches: 50 built-in stitches.
• Buttonholes: One-step automatic (styles 1-6).
• Needle: Home sewing needle size 75/11 to 100/16.
• Bobbin: Class 15 transparent bobbin.
• Speed: Up to 800 stitches per minute.
• Power Supply: 120V AC, 60Hz.
• Dimensions: Compact design with free arm.
• Weight: Lightweight for portability.
• Warranty: Limited warranty as per Brother policy.

Controls and Functions

Front Panel: Power switch, Stitch selection dial, Stitch length dial, Stitch width dial, Reverse stitch button, Needle up/down button (if applicable).

Additional Controls: Handwheel (manual control), Presser foot lever, Bobbin winder, Thread tension dial, Speed control slider.

Stitch Selection: Turn dial to numbered stitch (chart on machine). Stitch Length: 0-4 mm (0 for darning). Stitch Width: 0-7 mm for zigzag and decorative stitches. Tension: Adjust dial (4 for normal sewing). Presser Foot: Use lever to raise/lower; change foot by pressing release button.

Stitch Selection and Settings

Select from 50 stitches: Straight, zigzag, stretch, decorative, buttonholes.

1. Straight stitch: For seams (length 2.5).
2. Zigzag stitch: For finishing edges (width 5, length 2).
3. Stretch stitches: For knits (stitch 2-5).
4. Decorative stitches: Select pattern; adjust width/length as desired.
5. Buttonhole: Select buttonhole style; place fabric under foot; machine sews automatically.

Tip: Test stitch on scrap fabric first. Refer to stitch chart for recommended settings.

Basic Sewing Techniques

Follow these steps for common tasks.

1. Seam sewing: Align fabric edges; lower presser foot; sew forward; reverse at start/end.
2. Zigzag finish: Sew along edge to prevent fraying.
3. Buttonhole: Mark position; select buttonhole; place button in foot; machine sews size automatically.
4. Free arm sewing: Remove accessory tray to access free arm for sleeves/cuffs.
5. Changing presser foot: Raise needle; press lever to release foot; snap on new foot.

WARNING! Do not pull fabric; let machine feed. Turn handwheel toward you only.

Maintenance and Cleaning

Unplug machine before maintenance.

1. Clean lint: Remove needle plate screws; lift plate; brush lint from bobbin area.
2. Oil machine: Apply drop of sewing machine oil to hook race as per manual (if required).
3. Needle replacement: Replace bent or dull needles regularly.
4. Exterior: Wipe with soft, dry cloth.

CAUTION! Do not use compressed air; it can force lint deeper. Use only Brother-recommended oil.

Accessories and Parts

Standard accessories included: All-purpose foot, Zipper foot, Buttonhole foot, Button sewing foot, Blind stitch foot, Seam ripper, Brush, Screwdriver, Bobbins (3), Needles set, Spool pin felt, Power cord, Foot controller, Instruction manual.

Optional: Additional presser feet available for quilting, embroidery, etc.

Safety Information

Read all instructions before use. Keep away from children. Unplug when not in use or during maintenance. Do not operate with damaged cord or foot controller. Use correct needle and bobbin. Avoid loose clothing or hair near moving parts. Do not sew over pins.

Electrical Safety: Use only 120V outlet. Do not use extension cords if possible.

Troubleshooting

Reset: Turn off power; unplug for 1 minute; restart.

Service: For repairs, contact authorized Brother service center. Visit www.brother-usa.com or call 1-877-888-5525.