Brother XL 2120 Sewing Machine Manual

The Brother XL 2120 is a versatile, user-friendly sewing machine designed for beginners and intermediate sewers. It features 12 built-in stitches, a 4-step buttonhole, automatic needle threading, adjustable stitch length and width, free arm capability, and a drop feed for darning and free-motion quilting. 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 free arm, Stitch selection dial, Stitch length/width controls, Reverse stitch lever, Bobbin winder, Automatic needle threader, Presser foot lever, Foot pedal.

Unpacking and Setup

Remove all packaging materials. Place machine on a stable, well-lit table.

1. Install the foot pedal: Plug into the connector on the right side of the machine.
2. Connect power: Plug the power cord into the machine and then into a standard 120V AC wall outlet.
3. Attach the accessory tray: Slide onto the free arm if desired for storage.
4. Wind and insert the bobbin: Follow the diagram on the machine.
5. Thread the upper thread: Use the automatic needle threader or follow the numbered path.

WARNING! Keep fingers away from the needle area during operation. Always turn the power off and unplug when not in use or during maintenance.

First-Time Operation

Plug in the machine and turn the power switch ON (located on the right side).

1. Select a stitch: Turn the stitch selection dial to the desired pattern (e.g., straight stitch).
2. Adjust settings: Set stitch length (recommended 2.5 for medium fabric) and width (0 for straight stitch).
3. Practice on scrap fabric: Lower the presser foot and gently press the foot pedal to start sewing.
4. Use reverse: Hold the reverse stitch lever to sew a few stitches backward at the start and end of a seam.
5. Raise the needle: Turn the handwheel toward you to raise the needle before removing fabric.

CAUTION! Never pull or push fabric; let the feed dogs move it. Always start with the needle in the highest position.

Specifications

• Model: Brother XL 2120.
• Stitches: 12 built-in stitches.
• Buttonhole: 4-step manual.
• Max Stitch Length: 4mm.
• Max Stitch Width: 5mm.
• Needle Positions: Left, center, right.
• Free Arm: Yes.
• Automatic Features: Needle threader, bobbin winding.
• Power Supply: 120V AC, 60Hz.
• Weight: Approximately 13.2 lbs (6 kg).

Controls and Functions

Main Controls: Power switch, Stitch selection dial, Stitch length dial, Stitch width dial, Reverse stitch lever, Presser foot lever, Handwheel.

Stitch Guide: Located on the front of the machine, showing all 12 stitches and recommended settings.

Stitch Length: Controls the distance between stitches (0-4). Stitch Width: Controls side-to-side width of zigzag and decorative stitches (0-5). Reverse Lever: Hold to reinforce seams. Presser Foot Lever: Raises and lowers the presser foot. Handwheel: Manually raises/lowers the needle; turn toward you only. Drop Feed Dog Lever: Located near the free arm, lowers feed dogs for free-motion work.

Stitch Selection and Settings

Refer to the stitch guide for recommended fabric and settings.

1. Straight Stitch (Pattern 1): For seams and topstitching. Set width to 0.
2. Zigzag Stitch (Pattern 2-4): For finishing edges, appliqué, and stretch fabrics.
3. Blind Hem Stitch (Pattern 5): For nearly invisible hems on garments.
4. Stretch Stitches (Pattern 6-7): For knits and elastic fabrics.
5. Decorative Stitches (Pattern 8-12): For embellishment.
6. 4-Step Buttonhole (Marked A-D): Follow the sequence on the dial.

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

Basic Sewing Techniques

Follow these steps for common tasks.

1. Starting a Seam: Position fabric under needle, lower presser foot, hold thread tails, sew a few stitches forward, reverse, then continue forward.
2. Seam Finishing: Use a zigzag stitch along raw edges or trim with pinking shears.
3. Creating a Buttonhole:
   • Step A: Sew the left side.
   • Step B: Sew the bottom bar.
   • Step C: Sew the right side.
   • Step D: Sew the top bar.
4. Free Arm Sewing: Remove the accessory tray to access the free arm for sewing sleeves and cuffs.
5. Darning/Quilting: Lower the feed dogs, attach the darning foot, and move fabric manually.

WARNING! Keep the area around the machine clear. Do not sew over pins.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Unplug the machine before any maintenance.

1. External Cleaning: Wipe with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use solvents.
2. Internal Cleaning: Remove the needle plate and bobbin case. Use the small brush to remove lint and dust from the feed dogs and bobbin area.
3. Oiling: Refer to the manual for specific oiling points. Use only sewing machine oil.

CAUTION! Never immerse the machine in water. Store in a dry, dust-free place.

Needle and Bobbin Replacement

Replacing the Needle:

1. Turn the handwheel to raise the needle to its highest position.
2. Loosen the needle clamp screw.
3. Remove the old needle.
4. Insert a new needle (flat side toward the back) until it stops.
5. Tighten the screw firmly.

Winding and Inserting the Bobbin:

1. Place thread spool on the pin. Guide thread through the bobbin winder tension.
2. Place empty bobbin on the winder shaft, push to the right.
3. Hold thread end, press foot pedal to wind. Stop when full.
4. Insert bobbin into the case under the needle plate, following the directional diagram.

Regulatory Information

This sewing machine complies with relevant safety standards. The Brother logo is a registered trademark of Brother Industries, Ltd. For your safety, use only accessories and parts specified by Brother. For support, visit www.brother-usa.com or contact Brother Customer Service at 1-877-276-8437.

Troubleshooting

Reset: Turn power off, unplug for 60 seconds, then restart.

Service: For repairs, contact authorized Brother service center. Do not attempt to disassemble the machine.