Brother XL2600i User Manual

The Brother XL2600i is a versatile and user-friendly sewing machine designed for both beginners and experienced sewers. It features a wide range of built-in stitches, an automatic needle threader, a drop-in bobbin system, and a free arm for sewing cylindrical items. This manual provides comprehensive instructions for setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting to help you get the most out of your machine.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Main body with free arm, Foot Controller, Power Cord, Accessory Box (including presser feet, bobbins, needles, screwdriver, and spool caps).

Installation & Setup

Unpack and inspect all contents. Place the machine on a stable, well-lit surface.

1. Install the Foot Controller: Plug the foot controller cable into the port on the right side of the machine.
2. Connect the Power Cord: Plug the power cord into the machine and then into a standard 120V AC wall outlet.
3. Attach the Accessory Box: Slide the accessory box onto the free arm until it clicks into place to create a flat sewing surface.
4. Wind and Insert the Bobbin: Follow the diagram on the machine to wind thread onto a bobbin and insert it into the bobbin case.
5. Thread the Upper Thread: Use the automatic needle threader following the numbered path guides on the machine.

WARNING! Keep fingers away from the needle and moving parts during setup and operation. Ensure the machine is turned off when plugging in.

First-Time Operation

Turn the main power switch to the "I" (On) position. The LED light will illuminate.

1. Select a Stitch: Turn the stitch selection dial to choose your desired stitch pattern (e.g., straight stitch #1).
2. Practice on Scrap Fabric: Place two layers of scrap fabric under the presser foot. Lower the presser foot lever.
3. Start Sewing: Gently press the foot controller to begin sewing. Guide the fabric lightly with your hands.
4. Reverse Stitching: Hold down the reverse sewing lever at the beginning and end of a seam to lock stitches.
5. Finish: Raise the needle to its highest position, lift the presser foot, and pull the fabric and threads toward the back to cut.

CAUTION! Never pull or push the fabric forcefully. Let the feed dogs move the fabric automatically.

Specifications

• Model: Brother XL2600i
• Stitches: 25 Built-in stitches
• Buttonholes: 1-step automatic
• Needle Positions: Left, Center, Right
• Max Sewing Speed: 800 stitches per minute
• Bobbin: Class 15 transparent bobbin
• Needle: Home sewing machine needle size 75/11 – 100/16
• Presser Feet: 6 included (Zigzag foot, Buttonhole foot, Zipper foot, Blind stitch foot, Button sewing foot, Narrow hemmer foot)
• Power Supply: 120V AC, 60Hz
• Dimensions (W x H x D): Approximately 15.7" x 7.1" x 12.2"
• Weight: 13.2 lbs

Controls and Functions

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

Front Panel: Main Power Switch, Stitch Selection Dial, Stitch Width Dial, Stitch Length Dial, Reverse Sewing Lever, Presser Foot Lever.

Side/Rear: Handwheel, Bobbin Winder Spindle, Foot Controller Jack, Power Supply Jack.

Stitch Settings: Use the stitch length dial (0-4 mm) and stitch width dial (0-5 mm) to customize. Refer to the stitch chart on the machine for recommended settings.

Tension Dial: Located on the front. Adjust for balanced stitches (default setting is usually 4).

Stitch Selection & Settings

The stitch selection dial is marked with numbers and icons. Turn the dial to align your chosen stitch with the marker.

1. Utility Stitches (1-6): For general sewing, mending, and seaming (straight, zigzag, stretch stitches).
2. Decorative Stitches (7-25): For embellishment and decorative sewing.
3. Buttonhole Stitch (Symbol): A dedicated one-step setting. Attach the buttonhole foot.
4. Needle Position: The straight stitch (#1) can be set to left, center, or right needle position using the stitch width dial.

Tip: Always test your stitch settings on a scrap piece of your project fabric before starting.

Basic Sewing Techniques

1. Seaming: Use a straight stitch (#1) with a length of 2.5. Align fabric edges and guide through.
2. Zigzag & Finishing Edges: Use zigzag stitch (#3-6) to prevent fabric fraying.
3. Sewing a Buttonhole: Select the buttonhole symbol, attach the buttonhole foot, and place the button in the foot's rear gauge. The machine will sew a perfectly sized buttonhole automatically.
4. Zipper Insertion: Use the zipper foot for invisible or centered zippers.
5. Blind Hem: Use the blind hem stitch (#8) and blind hem foot for nearly invisible hems.
6. Free Arm Sewing: Remove the accessory box to use the free arm for sewing cuffs, pant legs, and sleeves.

WARNING! Always use the correct presser foot for the technique. Do not sew over pins.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Unplug the machine before any maintenance.

1. Daily Cleaning: Use the small brush provided to remove lint from the bobbin area and feed dogs.
2. Oiling: This machine is designed for minimal oiling. Refer to the manual for specific oiling points if necessary. Use only high-grade sewing machine oil.
3. Needle Replacement: Turn the handwheel to raise the needle to its highest position. Loosen the needle clamp screw, remove the old needle, and insert a new one with the flat side facing back. Tighten the screw firmly.
4. Exterior Cleaning: Wipe the exterior with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use solvents or sprays.

CAUTION! Never disassemble the machine beyond the instructions in this manual. Improper handling can void the warranty.

Regulatory Information

FCC Compliance: This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the condition that this device does not cause harmful interference. 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 1-877-276-8437.

Troubleshooting

Reset: Turn the main power switch off, wait 10 seconds, and turn it back on.

Service: For persistent issues, contact Brother Customer Service at 1-877-276-8437 or visit www.brother-usa.com.