Brother XL2620 User Manual

The Brother XL2620 is a versatile sewing machine designed for home use, featuring 25 built-in stitches, a one-step buttonhole, automatic needle threading, adjustable stitch length and width, free arm capability, and a built-in LED light. It operates on 120V AC, 60Hz. 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 Settings 6. Stitch Selection and Adjustment 7. Threading and Bobbin Winding 9. Maintenance & Cleaning 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Sewing machine head, foot pedal, power cord, accessory kit (presser feet, bobbins, needles, seam ripper, cleaning brush), instruction manual.

FeatureDescription
Built-in Stitches25 stitches including utility, decorative, and stretch stitches
One-Step ButtonholeAutomatically creates buttonholes of consistent size
Automatic Needle ThreaderEasily threads the needle with a simple lever action
Adjustable Stitch Length/WidthCustomize stitch size for different fabrics and techniques
Free ArmRemovable flatbed for sewing cuffs, sleeves, and other tubular items
Built-in LED LightIlluminates the sewing area for better visibility
Drop FeedAllows for free-motion sewing and darning
Stitch Selector DialEasy selection of stitches with clear markings
Reverse Sewing LeverReinforce seams by sewing in reverse
Bobbin Winding SystemBuilt-in bobbin winder with automatic stop

Unpacking and Setup

Carefully unpack all components and place on a stable, level surface.

  1. Remove all packaging materials and protective covers.
  2. Attach the power cord to the machine and plug into a 120V AC outlet.
  3. Connect the foot pedal to the machine.
  4. Install the accessory tray and free arm as needed.
  5. Raise the presser foot lever and install a needle (flat side toward back).

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

First-Time Operation

Power on the machine using the main switch; the LED light will illuminate.

  1. Wind and insert the bobbin: Follow threading diagram for correct placement.
  2. Thread the upper thread: Use the automatic needle threader for ease.
  3. Select a stitch: Turn the stitch selector dial to desired pattern.
  4. Adjust settings: Set stitch length and width as needed for your fabric.
  5. Practice sewing: Use scrap fabric to test stitches and tension.

CAUTION! Always start with the presser foot lowered and the needle in the highest position before beginning to sew.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Main controls located on the front and right side of the machine.

Front Panel: Stitch selector dial, stitch length dial, stitch width dial, reverse sewing lever, bobbin winding spindle.

Right Side: Main power switch, handwheel, presser foot lever, needle position button.

Stitch Length: Controls the distance between stitches (0-4mm). Stitch Width: Adjusts the side-to-side width of zigzag and decorative stitches (0-5mm). Tension: Upper thread tension dial (usually set between 4-5 for balanced stitches).

Stitch Selection and Adjustment

Select stitches using the stitch selector dial with numbered positions.

  1. Turn the stitch selector dial to the desired stitch number.
  2. Refer to the stitch chart for recommended settings.
  3. Adjust stitch length dial for longer or shorter stitches.
  4. Adjust stitch width dial for wider or narrower stitches (for applicable patterns).
  5. Test stitch on scrap fabric before beginning your project.

Tip: For straight stitching, use stitch length 2.0-2.5 for medium-weight fabrics. For zigzag, adjust width according to fabric type and purpose.

Threading and Bobbin Winding

Proper threading is essential for optimal stitch quality.

  1. Bobbin Winding: Place spool on holder, thread through bobbin winding tension, place empty bobbin on spindle, push bobbin winder to right, press foot pedal.
  2. Upper Threading: Follow numbered threading path on machine, use automatic needle threader by pulling lever down and through needle eye.
  3. Bobbin Insertion: Remove bobbin case, insert bobbin with thread unwinding counterclockwise, pull thread through slot, replace bobbin case.
  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.

WARNING! Always raise the presser foot when threading. Ensure thread is properly seated in tension discs.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

  1. Unplug machine before any cleaning or maintenance.
  2. Remove needle plate screws and clean lint from feed dogs and bobbin area with brush.
  3. Oil moving parts as indicated in manual (use only sewing machine oil).
  4. Wipe exterior with soft, dry cloth. Do not use solvents or abrasives.
  5. Replace needle regularly (after 8-10 hours of sewing or if damaged).

CAUTION! Never use compressed air to clean machine as it can force lint deeper into mechanisms. Always use proper sewing machine oil only.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with interference limits for residential use. Copyright © Brother Industries, Ltd. For support, visit www.brother-usa.com or contact Brother Customer Service at 1-800-284-4357. This product conforms to applicable UL standards and CSA requirements.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Machine won't runPower connectionCheck power cord is plugged in; ensure main switch is on.
Thread bunching underneathIncorrect threading/bobbinRe-thread upper and bobbin threads; ensure bobbin is inserted correctly.
Needle breaksWrong needle/improper insertionReplace needle; ensure flat side is toward back; use correct needle for fabric.
Uneven stitchesTension issuesAdjust upper tension; re-thread completely; check for lint in tension discs.
Fabric not feedingPresser foot pressure/feed dogsEnsure presser foot is lowered; clean feed dogs; check stitch length setting.
Automatic needle threader not workingNeedle position/thread sizeRaise needle to highest position; use standard weight thread; ensure thread is in hook.
Buttonhole not forming properlyStabilizer/fabric handlingUse stabilizer for lightweight fabrics; follow buttonhole markings precisely.

Reset: Turn machine off and unplug for 30 seconds to reset electronic components.

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

Brother XL2620 User Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025