Manual for Brother CE5500PRW Sewing Machine

The Brother CE5500PRW is a computerized sewing machine featuring 50 built-in utility, decorative, and heirloom stitches, an automatic needle threader, a drop-in top bobbin with clear cover, a built-in thread cutter, and a wide table for larger projects. It includes a 1-step buttonhole, variable speed control, and a backlit LCD screen. 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. Stitch Selection and Settings 8. Maintenance and Cleaning 9. Regulatory Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Computerized control panel, Automatic needle threader, Drop-in top bobbin system, Wide extension table, Foot pedal, Accessory storage compartment.

Feature	Description
Built-in Stitches	50 stitches including utility, decorative, and heirloom
Automatic Needle Threader	Easily threads the needle with a simple lever
Drop-in Top Bobbin	Quickly set bobbin with clear cover for visibility
LCD Screen	Backlit display shows selected stitch and settings
1-Step Buttonhole	Automatically creates buttonholes in one step
Variable Speed Control	Slider for precise sewing speed adjustment
Built-in Thread Cutter	Conveniently cuts thread at the front of the machine
Wide Extension Table	Provides extra workspace for larger projects
Free Arm	For sewing cuffs and sleeves
Needle Stop Up/Down	Selector for needle position when stopping

Unpacking and Setup

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

Remove machine from box: Lift by the carrying handle, not by the free arm.
Attach the extension table: Slide it onto the free arm until it clicks into place.
Install the foot pedal: Connect the plug to the machine's pedal jack.
Plug into power: Connect the power cord to the machine and then to a 120V AC outlet.
Wind and insert the bobbin: Follow the diagram in the manual.
Thread the upper thread: Use the automatic needle threader for ease.

WARNING! Machine is heavy; lift with care to avoid injury. Ensure the power switch is OFF before plugging in.

First-Time Operation

Power on the machine; the LCD screen will illuminate.

Select a stitch: Use the stitch selection dial or buttons to choose a basic straight stitch (e.g., #01).
Adjust stitch length/width: Use the +/- buttons as needed (for straight stitch, width is fixed).
Place fabric: Lower the presser foot lever.
Start sewing: Gently press the foot pedal. Practice on scrap fabric first.
Use reverse: Press the reverse button to reinforce stitches at the beginning and end.
Cut thread: Use the built-in thread cutter or scissors.

CAUTION! Keep fingers away from the needle area while sewing. Always turn the handwheel toward you (counterclockwise).

Specifications

Type: Computerized Sewing Machine.
Built-in Stitches: 50 stitches.
Buttonholes: 1-step automatic buttonhole.
Needle Threader: Automatic.
Bobbin: Drop-in, top-loading, Class 15 transparent bobbin.
Speed: Up to 850 stitches per minute.
LCD Display: Backlit with stitch number and settings.
Presser Feet: Includes buttonhole foot, zipper foot, blind stitch foot, button sewing foot, overcasting foot, monogramming foot, walking foot, and quilting foot.
Power Source: 120V AC, 60Hz.
Dimensions: Please refer to the physical manual for exact measurements.

Controls and Functions

Access functions via the control panel. Main Power Switch: On/Off. LCD Screen: Displays stitch number, length, and width.

Control Buttons: Stitch Selection, Stitch Length (+/-), Stitch Width (+/-), Reverse, Needle Up/Down, Start/Stop (for sewing without foot pedal).

Stitch Settings: Adjust length (0-5mm) and width (0-7mm) for applicable stitches. Utility Stitches: Straight, zigzag, blind hem, stretch stitches. Decorative Stitches: Scallop, shell, heirloom stitches. Special Functions: Mirror imaging, memory function for stitch combinations.

Stitch Selection and Settings

Select from 50 built-in stitches for various fabrics and techniques.

Turn the stitch selection dial to the desired stitch number (see stitch chart).
For stitches with adjustable width, use the width +/- buttons.
For stitches with adjustable length, use the length +/- buttons.
Attach the appropriate presser foot for the selected stitch.
Test stitch on a scrap of your project fabric.
For buttonholes: Select the buttonhole stitch, attach the buttonhole foot, place the button in the foot's rear gauge, and the machine will sew the perfect size.

Tip: Refer to the stitch guide on the machine or manual for recommended fabric and foot usage.

Maintenance and Cleaning

Unplug the machine before any maintenance. Use the included brush to remove lint from the bobbin area and feed dogs.

Cleaning: Regularly remove lint and dust with the small brush. Wipe the exterior with a soft, dry cloth.
Oiling: This machine is designed for long periods without oiling. If necessary, use only sewing machine oil on points indicated in the manual (a drop on the hook race).
Needle: Replace the needle regularly (after every project or 8 hours of sewing) or if it becomes bent or dull.
Bobbin Case: Clean lint from the bobbin case area with the brush.

WARNING! Do not use compressed air to clean as it can force lint deeper into the mechanism.

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 1-877-467-4289.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Machine does not run	Power cord, main switch	Ensure machine is plugged in and main switch is ON. Check outlet.
Needle breaks	Incorrect needle insertion, bent needle, wrong foot	Reinsert needle correctly (flat side to back). Replace needle. Ensure correct presser foot is attached.
Thread bunches underneath	Bobbin threaded incorrectly, upper tension too tight	Rethread bobbin ensuring correct direction. Rethread upper thread. Adjust upper tension.
Skipped stitches	Dull/bent needle, wrong needle type for fabric	Replace needle with a new one of correct type (e.g., ballpoint for knits).
Uneven stitches	Poor quality thread, dirty feed dogs	Use good quality thread. Clean lint from feed dogs.
Automatic needle threader not working	Needle not in highest position, thread not in hook	Turn handwheel to bring needle to highest position. Ensure thread is properly seated in the threader hook.

Reset: Turn the power off and on again to reset the computer.

Service: For repairs, contact authorized Brother service centers. 1-877-467-4289; www.brother-usa.com