Brother Sewing Machine XL2600i Manual

The Brother XL2600i is a versatile, user-friendly sewing machine designed for beginners and intermediate sewers. It features 25 built-in stitches, a one-step buttonhole, automatic needle threader, drop-in bobbin system, adjustable stitch length and width, free arm capability, and variable speed control. This manual covers safety, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting for optimal use.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Unpacking and Setup 3. First-Time Operation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Functions 6. Stitch Selection and Settings 8. Threading and Bobbin Winding 9. Maintenance and Cleaning 10. Safety Information 11. Warranty and Support 12. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Main body with stitch panel, Free arm, Accessory compartment, Foot pedal, Power cord, Bobbins, Needles, Presser feet, Seam ripper, Brush, Screwdriver.

FeatureDescription
Built-in Stitches25 stitches including utility, decorative, and stretch
One-Step ButtonholeAutomatically creates buttonholes of consistent size
Automatic Needle ThreaderEasily threads needle with lever mechanism
Drop-in Bobbin SystemTop-loading, clear-view bobbin for easy monitoring
Variable Speed ControlSlider for adjusting sewing speed
Free ArmRemovable extension table for sewing cuffs and sleeves
Stitch Length/Width DialAdjustable for customizing stitches
Presser Foot PressureAdjustable for different fabric thicknesses
Built-in LightIlluminates sewing area
Reverse Sewing LeverFor reinforcing stitches

Unpacking and Setup

Remove all packaging materials. Place machine on stable, flat surface.

  1. Attach power cord: Plug into machine and wall outlet (120V).
  2. Install foot pedal: Connect to machine port, place on floor.
  3. Attach accessory tray: Slide onto free arm if desired.
  4. Insert needle: Loosen needle clamp screw, insert needle flat side back, tighten.
  5. Wind bobbin: Follow bobbin winding instructions.
  6. Thread machine: Follow threading path indicated on machine.

WARNING! Keep fingers away from needle area during setup and operation. Ensure machine is unplugged during needle/bobbin changes.

First-Time Operation

Plug in machine, turn on power switch.

  1. Select stitch: Turn stitch selection dial to desired pattern.
  2. Adjust settings: Set stitch length (0-4 mm) and width (0-5 mm) as needed.
  3. Test on scrap fabric: Practice stitching to ensure proper tension and thread.
  4. Use reverse lever: Hold to sew backwards at beginning/end of seam.
  5. Change presser foot: Lift lever to release foot; align new foot and lower lever.

CAUTION! Always raise needle to highest position before changing presser foot or removing fabric.

Specifications

Controls and Functions

Front Panel: Power switch, Stitch selection dial, Stitch length dial, Stitch width dial, Reverse sewing lever, Bobbin winder spindle.

Additional Features: Handwheel (manual control), Presser foot lifter, Thread tension dial (adjustable 0-9), Built-in light switch, Drop feed lever (for darning/free-motion sewing).

Operation: Select stitch, adjust length/width, set tension based on fabric, lower presser foot, press foot pedal to sew. Use handwheel to raise/lower needle manually.

Stitch Selection and Settings

Stitch chart is printed on machine. Use dial to select:

  1. Straight stitches: For seams, topstitching (length 2.5 mm default).
  2. Zigzag stitches: For finishing edges, appliqué (adjust width).
  3. Decorative stitches: For embellishments (use stabilizer).
  4. Stretch stitches: For knits and elastic fabrics.
  5. Buttonhole: Select buttonhole stitch, place fabric under foot, press pedal to complete.

Tip: Always test stitch on fabric scrap to check tension and appearance.

Threading and Bobbin Winding

Correct threading is essential for proper operation.

  1. Bobbin winding: Place thread on spool pin, guide through bobbin winding tension, wrap around bobbin, push bobbin onto spindle, engage clutch by pushing right, press pedal.
  2. Upper threading: Raise presser foot and needle. Follow numbered path: spool pin, thread guides, tension discs, take-up lever, needle. Use automatic needle threader if needed.
  3. Insert bobbin: Drop bobbin into case with thread clockwise, pull thread through slot and under tension spring.
  4. Draw up bobbin thread: Hold upper thread, turn handwheel toward you to lower/raise needle; pull upper thread to bring bobbin thread up.

WARNING! Ensure machine is off during threading. Keep threads free of knots.

Maintenance and Cleaning

Unplug machine before maintenance.

  1. Cleaning: Remove needle plate screws; use brush to remove lint from feed dogs and bobbin area.
  2. Oiling: Apply one drop of sewing machine oil to hook race and moving parts as per manual (do not over-oil).
  3. Needle replacement: Replace bent or dull needles regularly; use correct type (universal, ballpoint, etc.).
  4. Storage: Cover machine when not in use; store in dry area.

CAUTION! Never use compressed air; it can force lint deeper. Use only recommended oil.

Safety Information

Always unplug machine when not in use, during threading, needle changes, or cleaning. Keep hands away from moving parts. Do not sew over pins. Use proper ventilation. This product is for household use only.

Warranty and Support

Limited warranty: 25 years for mechanical parts, 2 years for electronic components (check local retailer for details). For support, visit www.brother-usa.com or contact Brother Customer Service at 1-877-888-6526. Register product online for updates.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Machine not runningPower connectionCheck plug, outlet, power switch; ensure foot pedal is connected.
Thread bunching underneathIncorrect threading/tensionRe-thread upper and bobbin thread; adjust tension; check bobbin insertion.
Needle breaksWrong needle/bent needleReplace needle; ensure it is inserted fully and straight.
Uneven stitchesThread tensionAdjust tension dial; re-thread; clean tension discs.
Fabric not feedingFeed dogs loweredCheck drop feed lever; ensure it is in raised position.
Buttonhole not formingIncorrect foot/fabricUse buttonhole foot; stabilize fabric; follow buttonhole steps.
Machine noisyLint/oilClean and oil as per manual; check for loose parts.

Reset: Unplug for 5 minutes if electronic issues occur.

Service: Authorized Brother service centers only. Do not attempt internal repairs.

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