Brother XL 2600i Sewing Machine Manual

The Brother XL 2600i is a versatile, lightweight, and user-friendly sewing machine designed for beginners and intermediate sewers. 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. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Main body with stitch selection dial, Bobbin case and shuttle, Presser foot, Needle clamp, Spool pins, Tension dial, Handwheel, Foot pedal, Power cord.

Unpacking and Setup

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

1. Remove machine and accessories from packaging.
2. Attach the foot pedal: Plug into the machine's pedal port.
3. Connect power: Plug power cord into machine and then into a standard 120V AC outlet.
4. Install the needle: Use the included screwdriver to loosen needle clamp, insert needle with flat side to the back, tighten securely.
5. Attach the presser foot: Lower the presser foot lever, align foot shank, and lower the lever to lock.

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

First-Time Operation

Plug in the machine and turn on the power switch.

1. Wind the bobbin: Place thread on spool pin, guide through bobbin winding tension, place empty bobbin on winder, push to engage, and press foot pedal.
2. Insert the bobbin: Open the bobbin cover, drop in bobbin with thread unwinding counterclockwise, pull thread under the tension spring.
3. Thread the upper thread: Raise presser foot, follow numbered threading path on machine, use automatic needle threader if desired.
4. Select a stitch: Turn the stitch selection dial to the desired pattern.
5. Test sew: Place fabric under presser foot, lower foot, and gently press foot pedal to start sewing.

CAUTION! Always start with the presser foot down. Never pull fabric; let the feed dogs move it.

Specifications

• Model: Brother XL 2600i.
• Stitches: 25 built-in stitches.
• Buttonhole: One-step automatic.
• Needle Threading: Automatic.
• Bobbin System: Top-loading, drop-in, Class 15 transparent bobbin.
• Stitch Length: Adjustable up to 4mm.
• Stitch Width: Adjustable up to 5mm.
• Presser Feet: Includes zigzag foot, buttonhole foot, zipper foot, button sewing foot, blind stitch foot.
• Free Arm: Yes, with removable accessory storage.
• Power Source: 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, Handwheel, Bobbin winder, Thread tension dial.

Operation: Use foot pedal for speed control. Turn handwheel toward you to manually move needle. Use reverse lever to sew backwards for reinforcement.

Stitch Selection: Turn dial to select from 25 patterns (straight, zigzag, blind hem, stretch, decorative). Stitch Adjustment: Use length dial (0-4) and width dial (0-5) to customize. Tension: Adjust upper thread tension dial (usually 4 for normal fabrics). Presser Foot Pressure: Dial on top for thick or thin fabrics.

Stitch Selection and Settings

Refer to stitch chart on machine for pattern numbers and recommended uses.

1. Straight Stitch (Pattern 1): For seams, topstitching. Set length 2.0-2.5, width 0.
2. Zigzag Stitch (Pattern 2-4): For finishing edges, appliqué. Adjust width for desired zigzag.
3. Blind Hem Stitch (Pattern 5): For nearly invisible hems. Use blind hem foot.
4. Stretch Stitches (Pattern 6-8): For knits and elastic fabrics.
5. Decorative Stitches (Pattern 9-25): For embellishment. Use appropriate length/width.
6. Buttonhole (Pattern marked with buttonhole symbol): Use buttonhole foot. Follow markings for size.

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

Threading and Bobbin Winding

Correct threading is essential for proper stitch formation.

1. Upper Threading: Follow numbered path on machine. Raise presser foot. Use automatic needle threader by pulling lever down, hooking thread, and releasing lever.
2. Bobbin Winding: Disengage clutch by pulling handwheel outward. Place thread on spool pin, guide through pre-tension, wind onto bobbin. Stop when full.
3. Bobbin Insertion: Open cover, drop in bobbin so thread unwinds counterclockwise. Pull thread into slot and under tension spring. Close cover.
4. Drawing Up Bobbin Thread: Hold upper thread, turn handwheel toward you until needle goes down and up, pull upper thread to bring bobbin thread up through needle plate.

WARNING! Ensure machine is off or unplugged when threading bobbin area. Keep fingers clear of moving parts.

Care & Maintenance

Unplug machine before any cleaning or maintenance.

1. Cleaning: Use small brush to remove lint from bobbin area, feed dogs, and tension discs. Wipe exterior with soft, dry cloth.
2. Oiling: Refer to manual for specific oiling points. Use only high-quality sewing machine oil. Apply 1-2 drops as directed.
3. Needle Replacement: Replace needle regularly (after every project or 8 hours of sewing). Use correct type (Universal, Ballpoint, etc.) for fabric.
4. Storage: Cover machine when not in use to prevent dust accumulation. Store in a dry place.

CAUTION! Do not use compressed air to clean lint as it can force debris into mechanisms. Never spray cleaners or lubricants directly onto machine.

Regulatory Information

FCC Compliance: This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Copyright © Brother Industries, Ltd. All rights reserved. Brother is a registered trademark of Brother Industries, Ltd. For support, visit www.brother-usa.com or contact Brother Customer Service at 1-877-888-6526.

Troubleshooting

Reset: Unplug machine for 2 minutes to reset electronic functions if experiencing erratic behavior.

Service: For repairs not covered in manual, contact authorized Brother service center at 1-877-888-6526.