Brother XL 2600i Manual

The Brother XL 2600i is a versatile and user-friendly sewing machine designed for beginners and intermediate users. It features 25 built-in stitches, a one-step buttonhole, automatic needle threading, adjustable stitch length and width, a drop-in bobbin system, and a free arm for sewing cuffs and sleeves. Powered by standard household electricity, it is ideal for a wide range of sewing projects from garment construction to home decor. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Main body with stitch selection dial, Reverse stitch lever, Stitch width/length dials, Bobbin winder, Automatic needle threader, Free arm, Accessory compartment.

Feature	Description
Built-in Stitches	25 stitches including utility, decorative, and stretch stitches
One-Step Buttonhole	Automatically creates buttonholes of consistent size
Automatic Needle Threader	Easily threads the needle with a simple lever action
Drop-in Bobbin	Top-loading, jam-resistant bobbin system with clear cover
Free Arm	Removable flat bed accessory for sewing cylindrical items
Stitch Selector Dial	Dial to choose desired stitch pattern
Reverse Stitch Lever	Hold to sew in reverse for securing seams
Stitch Length/Width Dials	Adjustable for customizing stitch appearance
Built-in Light	Illuminates the sewing area
Power Switch & Speed Control	On/Off switch and slider for sewing speed

Unpacking and Setup

Carefully unpack the machine and inspect all contents. Place on a stable, well-lit table.

1. Remove all packaging materials and protective covers.
2. Install the foot controller: Plug into the port on the right side of the machine.
3. Connect the power cord: Plug into the machine and then into a standard 120V AC wall outlet.
4. Attach the accessory box: Snap into place on the free arm storage area.
5. Raise the presser foot lever and install a needle (flat side to the back).

WARNING! The machine contains sharp parts. Handle with care during setup. Ensure the power switch is OFF when plugging in.

Getting Started

Power on the machine; familiarize yourself with the basic controls.

1. Wind the bobbin: Place thread on spool pin, guide through tension disc, and wind onto bobbin using the bobbin winder.
2. Insert the bobbin: Place wound bobbin into the drop-in case with thread running counterclockwise. Pull thread under the tension spring.
3. Thread the upper thread: Use the automatic needle threader following the numbered guide path on the machine.
4. Draw up the bobbin thread: Hold the upper thread, turn the handwheel toward you to bring the bobbin thread up through the needle plate.
5. Select a stitch: Turn the stitch selector dial to your desired pattern (e.g., straight stitch).

CAUTION! Always turn the handwheel toward you (counterclockwise) only. Never force it.

Specifications

• Model: Brother XL 2600i.
• Stitches: 25 Built-in stitches.
• Buttonhole: 1-step automatic.
• Needle Threading: Automatic.
• Bobbin: Drop-in, Class 15 type.
• Stitch Length: Adjustable up to 4mm.
• Stitch Width: Adjustable up to 5mm (for zigzag and decorative stitches).
• Free Arm: Yes, with removable flat bed.
• Power Supply: 120V AC, 60Hz.
• Included Accessories: All-purpose foot, buttonhole foot, zipper foot, button sewing foot, seam ripper, brush, needles, bobbins, spool caps, screwdriver.

Controls and Functions

Access all functions via dials and levers on the front and top of the machine.

Top Panel: Stitch Selector Dial, Stitch Length Dial, Stitch Width Dial, Reverse Stitch Lever, Handwheel.

Front Panel: Power Switch & Light, Speed Control Slider, Bobbin Winder Spindle/Stop, Automatic Needle Threader Lever.

Basic Settings: Stitch Length (0-4), Stitch Width (0-5), Needle Position (Center/Left). Presser Foot Pressure is preset. Tension is automatic but adjustable via dial (default 4).

Stitch Selection and Settings

Use the stitch selector dial to choose from 25 patterns. Refer to the stitch chart on the machine.

1. Turn the dial to align your chosen stitch number with the marker.
2. For straight stitch (Pattern 1), set stitch width to 0.
3. For zigzag or decorative stitches, adjust width dial as desired.
4. Adjust stitch length for fabric type: shorter for finer fabrics, longer for basting.
5. For buttonholes, attach the buttonhole foot and select the one-step buttonhole symbol.

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

Basic Sewing Techniques

Follow these steps for common sewing tasks.

1. Starting to Sew: Place fabric under presser foot, lower the foot lever, and gently press the foot controller.
2. Securing Stitches: Press and hold the Reverse Stitch Lever at the beginning and end of a seam.
3. Changing Direction: Stop with needle down in fabric, raise presser foot, pivot fabric, lower foot, and continue.
4. Creating a Buttonhole: Mark fabric, attach buttonhole foot, place button in back of foot, select buttonhole stitch, and sew automatically.
5. Zipper Insertion: Use the zipper foot for close stitching next to the zipper teeth.
6. Free Arm Sewing: Remove the accessory box to access the free arm for sewing sleeves and cuffs.

WARNING! Keep fingers away from the moving needle. Always watch the needle area while sewing.

Maintenance

Regular cleaning ensures optimal performance.

Cleaning: Unplug machine. Remove needle plate screws and needle plate. Use the small brush to remove lint from bobbin area and feed dogs. Wipe exterior with soft, dry cloth.

Oiling: This model is designed for minimal maintenance. Do not oil unless specified in advanced service manual. If necessary, use only high-grade sewing machine oil sparingly on moving parts indicated in the diagram.

Needle Replacement: Turn handwheel to raise needle to highest position. Loosen needle clamp screw, remove old needle, insert new needle with flat side to the back, and tighten screw firmly.

CAUTION! Always unplug the machine before performing any maintenance.

Accessories

Standard accessories included in the accessory box.

Accessory	Use
All-Purpose Foot (on machine)	General sewing
Buttonhole Foot	Creating one-step buttonholes
Zipper Foot	Sewing zippers and piping
Button Sewing Foot	Attaching buttons
Seam Ripper/Lint Brush	Removing stitches and cleaning
Needles (Assorted)	For different fabric types
Bobbin (3 pcs, Class 15)	Holds lower thread
Spool Caps (Large & Small)	Holds spools in place
Screwdriver	For needle plate removal

Safety Information

Read all instructions before use. This appliance is not intended for use by persons with reduced physical, sensory or mental capabilities.

• Always unplug the machine from the electrical outlet immediately after use, when cleaning, when making any user adjustments, or when changing accessories like the needle.
• Never operate with any air openings blocked. Keep ventilation openings free of lint, dust, and loose cloth.
• Do not use outdoors or operate where aerosol (spray) products are being used or where oxygen is being administered.
• Switch the machine off ("O") when making any adjustments in the needle area.
• Use this appliance only for its intended use as described in this manual.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Machine does not run	Not plugged in / Power switch off	Check power cord connection and ensure switch is ON ("I").
Needle breaks	Incorrect needle installation / Bent needle	Reinstall needle correctly (flat side back). Replace with a new needle.
Upper thread breaks	Incorrect threading / Tension too tight	Rethread the machine following the guide. Reduce upper tension.
Bobbin thread loops on bottom	Bobbin threaded incorrectly	Remove bobbin case, reinsert bobbin ensuring thread runs counterclockwise under tension spring.
Uneven stitches or skipping	Dull/bent needle / Wrong needle for fabric	Replace needle. Ensure you are using the correct needle type (e.g., ballpoint for knits).
Fabric not feeding	Presser foot is up / Feed dogs lowered	Lower the presser foot. Check that the feed dog lever is in the raised position (for normal sewing).
Loud noise or jam	Lint buildup / Thread jam in bobbin area	Unplug machine. Remove needle plate and clean bobbin area. Remove tangled threads carefully.

Reset: Unplug machine for 1 minute to reset electronic components if experiencing erratic behavior.

Service: For repairs not covered here, contact Brother Customer Service at 1-877-888-5625 or visit www.brother-usa.com.