Brother XL 5700 Sewing Machine Manual

The Brother XL 5700 is a versatile, user-friendly sewing machine designed for both beginners and experienced sewers. It features 70 built-in stitches, an automatic needle threader, a drop-in bobbin system, a one-step buttonhole, adjustable stitch length and width, and a free arm for sewing cuffs and sleeves. Powered by standard household current. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Unpacking and Setup 3. First-Time Operation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Functions 6. Basic Sewing Techniques 7. Stitch Selection and Settings 8. Maintenance and Cleaning 9. Accessories 10. Safety Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Main sewing unit, Foot Controller, Power Cord, Accessory Box, Quick Start Guide, Instruction Manual.

Feature	Description
Built-in Stitches	70 stitches including utility, decorative, and heirloom
Automatic Needle Threader	Easily threads the needle with a simple lever
Drop-in Bobbin System	Top-loading, jam-resistant bobbin system with clear cover
One-Step Buttonhole	Automatically creates a buttonhole of precise size in one step
Free Arm	Removable accessory compartment for sewing cylindrical items
Stitch Length/Width Dial	Adjustable for customizing stitch appearance
LED Light	Illuminates the sewing area
Speed Control Slider	Limits maximum sewing speed
Reverse Stitch Lever	Secures stitches at beginning and end of seams
Presser Foot Pressure Dial	Adjustable for different fabric thicknesses

Unpacking and Setup

Unpack all components and inspect for damage. Place on a stable, flat surface.

Remove machine from packaging: Lift machine by its carrying handle.
Attach power cord: Plug cord into machine socket and wall outlet.
Install foot controller: Plug into machine port and place on floor.
Wind and insert bobbin: Follow bobbin winding instructions; place in bobbin case.
Thread the machine: Follow threading path diagram; use automatic needle threader.

WARNING! Keep fingers away from moving parts, especially the needle. Always turn power off when threading or changing accessories.

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; familiarize yourself with controls.

Select a straight stitch: Turn pattern dial to straight stitch setting.
Place fabric: Lower presser foot lever.
Start sewing: Gently press foot controller.
Practice stitching: Use scrap fabric to test stitch length and tension.
Experiment with stitches: Try different built-in patterns.

CAUTION! Do not pull fabric while sewing; let the feed dogs move it. Always start with the needle in the highest position.

Specifications

Model: Brother XL 5700.
Stitches: 70 built-in stitches.
Buttonholes: 1 one-step automatic buttonhole style.
Max Stitch Length: 5mm.
Max Stitch Width: 7mm.
Needle Positions: Left, center, right.
Bobbin: Class 15 transparent bobbin.
Lighting: LED work light.
Power Supply: 120V AC, 60Hz.
Dimensions: Compact design with free arm capability.

Controls and Functions

Main Controls: Power Switch, Pattern Selection Dial, Stitch Length Dial, Stitch Width Dial, Reverse Stitch Lever, Handwheel.

Front Panel: Thread Cutter, Presser Foot Lever, Needle Threader Lever, Drop-in Bobbin Cover, Bobbin Winding Spindle.

Stitch Selection: Turn pattern dial to desired stitch number (refer to stitch chart). Stitch Adjustment: Use length dial (0-5mm) and width dial (0-7mm). Tension Control: Adjust upper thread tension dial (usually set to 4 for normal fabrics). Presser Feet: Snap-on system for easy changes (zigzag foot included).

Basic Sewing Techniques

Straight Stitch: For seams and topstitching. Zigzag Stitch: For finishing edges and sewing stretch fabrics. Buttonhole: Use one-step buttonhole foot. Blind Hem: Use blind hem foot. Zipper Installation: Use zipper foot.

Always test stitch on scrap fabric first.
Match needle and thread to fabric type.
Use appropriate presser foot for each technique.
Secure stitches with reverse stitching at beginning and end.

Tip: Keep the feed dogs clean and the needle sharp for best results.

Stitch Selection and Settings

Refer to stitch chart on machine or manual for full list.

Utility Stitches (1-10): Straight, zigzag, stretch, and overcast stitches.
Decorative Stitches (11-50): Scallops, waves, leaves, and other patterns.
Heirloom Stitches (51-70): Satin stitches and decorative embroidery-type patterns.
Buttonhole Stitch ( ): Automatic one-step buttonhole.
Adjust settings: Use length/width dials to customize appearance.
Needle position: Change for different techniques (left for zippers, right for edge stitching).

WARNING! Do not change stitch pattern while needle is in fabric. Always raise needle to highest position first.

Maintenance and Cleaning

Unplug machine before cleaning. Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance.

Clean lint buildup: Remove needle plate and bobbin case; use brush to remove lint.
Oil machine: Apply sewing machine oil to designated points as per manual (sparingly).
Change needle regularly: Dull or bent needles cause poor stitching.
Cover machine when not in use: Protect from dust.

CAUTION! Use only sewing machine oil. Do not use household oils. Never spray cleaners directly on machine.

Accessories

Included accessories: Zigzag Foot, Buttonhole Foot, Zipper Foot, Blind Hem Foot, Button Sewing Foot, Overcasting Foot, Monogramming Foot, Bobbins (4), Needles (3), Screwdriver, Brush, Seam Ripper, Spool Caps, Instruction Manual.

Optional Accessories: Walking Foot, Quilting Guide, Extension Table, Carrying Case.

Safety Information

Read all instructions before use. Keep hands away from moving parts. Always disconnect power when changing needles, presser feet, or cleaning. Do not operate with damaged cord or plug. Not for use by children. Use only with authorized Brother accessories. For support, visit www.brother-usa.com or contact 1-800-284-4357.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Machine does not run	Power connection	Check power cord is plugged in; ensure power switch is ON.
Thread bunching underneath	Incorrect threading/bobbin	Re-thread top and bobbin; ensure bobbin is inserted correctly.
Needle breaks	Wrong needle/bent needle	Replace needle; ensure it is inserted fully and tightened.
Uneven stitches	Tension settings	Adjust upper thread tension; re-thread completely.
Fabric not feeding	Feed dogs lowered	Check feed dog position; clean feed dogs of lint.
Machine is noisy	Lint/thread jam	Clean bobbin area; remove any tangled thread.
Automatic needle threader not working	Needle position	Raise needle to highest position; ensure lever is fully engaged.

Reset: Turn power off, wait 10 seconds, then restart.

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