Brother SM2700 Sewing Machine Manual

The Brother SM2700 is a versatile and user-friendly sewing machine designed for both beginners and experienced sewers. It features 27 built-in stitches, a one-step automatic buttonhole, easy stitch selection, automatic needle threading, and a drop-in bobbin system. This manual covers essential safety guidelines, machine features, setup instructions, basic operations, maintenance, and troubleshooting to help you get the most out of your sewing experience.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Unpacking and Setup 3. Getting Started 4. Specifications 5. Parts and Controls 6. Threading the Machine 7. Basic Sewing Operations 8. Stitch Selection and Settings 9. Maintenance and Cleaning 10. Safety Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Main body with stitch panel, Free Arm, Accessory compartment, Foot controller, Power cord, Assorted presser feet, Bobbins, Needles, Seam ripper/Lint brush, Screwdriver.

FeatureDescription
27 Built-in StitchesIncludes utility, decorative, and stretch stitches
One-Step ButtonholeAutomatically creates buttonholes of precise size
Automatic Needle ThreaderEasily threads the needle with a simple lever
Drop-in Bobbin SystemTop-loading, jam-resistant bobbin system
Stitch Selection DialEasy-to-turn dial for selecting stitches
Adjustable Stitch Length/WidthCustomize stitch dimensions for different fabrics
Built-in LED LightIlluminates the sewing area
Free ArmFor sewing cylindrical items like sleeves and cuffs
Reverse Sewing LeverReinforces stitch beginnings and endings
Foot Pressure AdjustmentFor sewing different fabric thicknesses

Unpacking and Setup

Carefully unpack all components and place the machine on a stable, flat surface.

  1. Remove all packaging materials and protective covers.
  2. Place the machine on a sturdy table near a power outlet.
  3. Connect the foot controller to the machine port.
  4. Plug the power cord into the machine and then into a 120V AC outlet.
  5. Install the accessory box onto the free arm if desired.

WARNING! The sewing machine is heavy; lift with care using both hands. Ensure the work area is clean and well-lit.

Getting Started

Power on the machine; the LED light will illuminate.

  1. Wind the bobbin: Place thread on spool pin, guide through tension disc, and wind onto bobbin.
  2. Insert the bobbin: Drop bobbin into case with thread running counterclockwise; pull thread under tension spring.
  3. Thread the upper thread: Follow numbered guides on machine, then use automatic needle threader.
  4. Raise the bobbin thread: Hold upper thread, turn handwheel toward you to bring up bobbin thread.
  5. Select a stitch: Turn the stitch selection dial to your desired pattern (e.g., straight stitch).
  6. Place fabric under presser foot, lower the foot, and press foot controller to start sewing.

CAUTION! Keep fingers away from the needle and moving parts during operation.

Specifications

Parts and Controls

Front Panel: Stitch selection dial, Stitch length dial, Stitch width dial, Reverse sewing lever, Power/Light switch.

Key Areas: Spool pins, Thread guides, Tension dial, Needle clamp screw, Presser foot lever, Handwheel, Bobbin cover, Free arm, Accessory compartment.

Stitch Settings: Use dials to select pattern and adjust length/width. Tension: Adjust for balanced stitches (default 4). Needle: Use household needles size 11/75 or 14/90. Presser Feet: Snap on/off easily; select based on stitch type.

Threading the Machine

Upper Threading: Follow numbered path from spool pin to needle. Use automatic needle threader by pulling lever down and hooking thread.

  1. Raise presser foot and needle to highest position.
  2. Place thread spool on pin; pull thread through first guide.
  3. Draw thread down and up through tension discs.
  4. Pass thread through take-up lever from right to left.
  5. Guide thread down through remaining guides to needle.
  6. Use automatic needle threader or thread needle manually.

Tip: Always thread with presser foot raised to open tension discs.

Basic Sewing Operations

Supports straight stitch, zigzag, buttonholes, and decorative patterns.

  1. Straight Stitch: Select pattern 1; adjust length as needed (2-3mm for medium fabrics).
  2. Zigzag Stitch: Select pattern 2-6; adjust width for seam finishing or appliqué.
  3. Buttonhole: Attach buttonhole foot; select buttonhole stitch; place fabric; machine sews automatically.
  4. Reverse Stitching: Hold reverse lever to sew backwards for reinforcement.
  5. Changing Presser Feet: Lift lever; snap off old foot; align new foot pin and lower lever to lock.
  6. Free Arm Sewing: Remove accessory box to access free arm for sleeves and cuffs.

WARNING! Do not pull fabric while sewing; let feed dogs move it. Always turn handwheel toward you.

Stitch Selection and Settings

Stitch Chart: Refer to chart on machine or manual for recommended uses. Adjustments: Length dial for shorter/longer stitches; width dial for zigzag/pattern width. Tension: Adjust if stitches are loose (increase) or puckered (decrease). Needle Position: Use dial to shift needle left/right for zippers or edge stitching.

Maintenance and Cleaning

Unplug machine before cleaning. Remove lint from bobbin area and feed dogs with brush. Oil sparingly as per manual instructions (if required). Replace needle regularly (after 8-10 hours of sewing).

CAUTION! Do not use compressed air; it can force lint into mechanics. Never immerse machine in water.

Safety Information

Always unplug when not in use or during maintenance. Keep hands away from moving parts. Use correct needle and thread for fabric. Do not sew over pins. Ensure proper ventilation. For support, visit www.brother-usa.com or contact 1-800-284-4357.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Machine does not runPower connection/foot controllerCheck power cord is plugged in; ensure foot controller is connected properly.
Thread breaksIncorrect threading/tensionRe-thread upper and bobbin thread; reduce tension; check for burrs on needle.
Needle breaksWrong needle/bent needleReplace needle; ensure it is inserted fully and tightened; do not pull fabric.
Uneven stitchesIncorrect tension/threadingRe-thread; adjust tension; ensure bobbin is inserted correctly.
Fabric not feedingFeed dogs lowered/thread jamCheck feed dog position (should be up); clean lint from feed dogs.
Buttonhole not formingIncorrect foot/fabric too thickUse buttonhole foot; stabilize lightweight fabric; ensure stitch is selected correctly.
Machine is noisyLint/thread jam in bobbin areaUnplug, remove bobbin case and clean thoroughly; re-oil if specified.

Reset: Unplug for 60 seconds to reset electronic components if machine behaves unexpectedly.

Service: 1-800-284-4357; www.brother-usa.com

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