LS14 Brother Sewing Machine Manual

The Brother LS14 is a versatile mechanical sewing machine designed for beginners and home sewers. It features 14 built-in stitches, a 4-step buttonhole, easy stitch selection, adjustable stitch length and width, free arm capability, built-in LED light, and a top drop-in bobbin system. Powered by 120V AC, it includes essential accessories and is suitable for a wide range of sewing projects. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Mechanical sewing head, Stitch selection dial, Stitch length/width controls, Free arm, Built-in LED light, Foot pedal, Power cord.

Unpacking and Setup

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

1. Remove machine from box: Lift by carrying handle, not by head.
2. Install foot pedal: Connect to port on right side of machine.
3. Connect power: Plug power cord into machine, then into 120V AC outlet.
4. Attach accessory box: Snap into place on free arm storage.
5. Wind and insert bobbin: Follow threading diagram.
6. Thread upper thread: Follow numbered path on machine.

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

First-Time Operation

Plug in power, turn on power switch (if present), and test functions.

1. Select straight stitch: Turn stitch dial to "1".
2. Place fabric: Lower presser foot using lever.
3. Start sewing: Gently press foot pedal to control speed.
4. Practice stitching: On scrap fabric to test tension and stitch quality.
5. Adjust tension: If stitches are loose or tight, adjust tension dial.
6. Use reverse: Hold reverse lever to backstitch at beginning and end.

CAUTION! Always turn handwheel toward you (counterclockwise) to avoid timing issues. Never force the handwheel.

Specifications

• Model: Brother LS14.
• Type: Mechanical sewing machine.
• Stitches: 14 built-in stitches.
• Buttonhole: 4-step manual.
• Max Stitch Length: 4 mm.
• Max Stitch Width: 5 mm.
• Bobbin: Top drop-in, Class 15 transparent bobbin.
• Lighting: Built-in LED.
• Free Arm: Yes.
• Power Supply: 120V AC, 60Hz.
• Weight: Approximately 13.2 lbs (6 kg).

Controls and Functions

Main controls located on front and right side of machine.

Stitch Selection Dial: Turn to select stitch pattern (1-14). Stitch Length Dial: Adjusts stitch length (0-4). Stitch Width Dial: Adjusts zigzag width (0-5). Reverse Sewing Lever: Hold down to sew in reverse. Handwheel: Manual control of needle, turn toward you only. Presser Foot Lever: Raises and lowers presser foot. Thread Tension Dial: Adjusts upper thread tension (higher number = tighter). Bobbin Winder: Winds thread onto bobbin. Foot Pedal: Controls sewing speed; press gently for slow, firmly for fast.

Basic Sewing Guide

General steps for successful sewing.

1. Prepare fabric: Press if necessary, align edges.
2. Select stitch: Choose appropriate stitch for fabric and project.
3. Thread machine: Upper and lower (bobbin) threads correctly.
4. Insert fabric: Place under presser foot, lower foot.
5. Start and stop: Begin with a few reverse stitches, sew forward, end with reverse stitches.
6. Cut threads: Use thread cutter on back of machine or scissors.

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

Stitch Selection & Applications

Guide to the 14 built-in stitches.

1. Straight Stitch (1): General sewing, seams.
2. Zigzag Stitch (2-4): Overcasting, decorative edges, stretch fabrics.
3. Blind Hem Stitch (5): Nearly invisible hems on garments.
4. Elastic Stitch (6): Sewing elastic, decorative seams.
5. Scallop Stitch (7-8): Decorative edges.
6. Multiple Zigzag (9-10): Mending, patching, decorative.
7. Overcast Stitch (11-12): Finishing raw fabric edges.
8. Decorative Stitches (13-14): Embellishments.

4-Step Buttonhole: Use stitch settings marked "A-D" sequentially to create a buttonhole of precise size.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Unplug machine before any maintenance.

1. Cleaning: Use small brush to remove lint from bobbin area and feed dogs.
2. Oiling: Refer to manual for specific oiling points; use only sewing machine oil.
3. Needle: Replace bent or dull needles immediately. Insert with flat side to back.
4. Storage: Cover machine when not in use to prevent dust accumulation.

CAUTION! Never use compressed air to clean; it can force lint deeper. Do not oil excessively.

Accessories Included

Standard accessories provided with LS14.

• All-purpose foot (on machine)
• Buttonhole foot
• Zigzag foot
• Bobbin (3 pcs) - Class 15
• Needle set
• Screwdriver
• Brush/Seam ripper
• Spool pin felt
• Instruction manual
• Power cord & Foot pedal

Safety Information

Important safety precautions for operation.

• Always unplug the machine when not in use, during threading, changing needles, or cleaning.
• Keep fingers away from moving parts, especially the needle and presser foot area.
• Do not use bent or damaged needles.
• Ensure the power cord is not damaged and does not create a tripping hazard.
• This appliance is not intended for use by persons with reduced physical, sensory or mental capabilities.
• Supervise children to ensure they do not play with the appliance.

Troubleshooting

Service: For repairs, contact authorized Brother service center. Do not attempt to disassemble the machine.

Support: Visit www.brother-usa.com or contact Brother customer service.