The Brother JX2517 is a versatile mechanical sewing machine designed for home use, featuring 17 built-in stitches, a 4-step buttonhole, free arm capability, adjustable stitch length and width, built-in needle threader, top drop-in bobbin system, and easy stitch selection dial. It operates on 120V AC and includes essential accessories. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.
Key components: Main body with stitch dial, Free arm, Bobbin system, Presser foot, Handwheel, Foot controller, Power cord.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Built-in Stitches | 17 stitches including straight, zigzag, blind hem, and decorative |
| 4-Step Buttonhole | Easy manual buttonhole creation |
| Free Arm | Removable accessory tray for sewing cuffs and sleeves |
| Stitch Length/Width Control | Adjustable for customization |
| Built-in Needle Threader | Simplifies threading |
| Top Drop-in Bobbin | Easy bobbin insertion and viewing |
| Stitch Selection Dial | Turn to select desired stitch |
| Reverse Sewing Lever | For reinforcing stitches |
| Presser Foot Pressure Dial | Adjustable for different fabrics |
| Foot Controller | Controls sewing speed |
Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable table.
WARNING! Keep fingers away from needle area during setup. Ensure machine is unplugged when installing needle or bobbin.
Plug in power; turn on power switch (if equipped) or press foot controller.
CAUTION! Always start with needle at highest position. Keep foot controller accessible.
Main Controls: Stitch selection dial, Stitch length dial, Stitch width dial, Reverse sewing lever, Handwheel, Presser foot lifter, Bobbin winder.
Stitch Dial: Turn to select stitch pattern (numbered 1-17). Length Dial: Adjusts stitch length (0-4). Width Dial: Adjusts stitch width (0-5). Reverse Lever: Hold to sew backward. Handwheel: Manual needle control; turn toward you. Presser Foot Lifter: Raises/lowers presser foot. Bobbin Winder: Winds thread onto bobbin.
Refer to stitch chart on machine. Common stitches:
Tip: Always test stitch on scrap fabric matching your project.
Follow these steps for general sewing.
WARNING! Never sew over pins; remove them as you sew. Keep fingers clear of moving needle.
Unplug machine before maintenance.
CAUTION! Do not use compressed air; it can force lint deeper. Use only recommended oil.
Included accessories and their uses:
| Accessory | Use |
|---|---|
| All-purpose foot (A) | General sewing |
| Buttonhole foot | Creating buttonholes |
| Zipper foot | Installing zippers |
| Button sewing foot | Sewing on buttons |
| Darning plate | Free-motion darning/quilting |
| Needles (HAx1) | Size 14/90 included; use appropriate size for fabric |
| Bobbins (Class 15) | Pre-wound and empty |
| Seam ripper/brush | For removing stitches and cleaning |
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.
| Symptom | Possible Cause | Corrective Action |
|---|---|---|
| Machine does not run | Power connection | Check power cord, outlet, and foot controller connection. |
| Thread bunching underneath | Incorrect threading/bobbin | Re-thread upper and bobbin threads; ensure bobbin inserted correctly. |
| Needle breaks | Wrong needle/bent needle | Replace needle; ensure it is inserted fully and tightened. |
| Uneven stitches | Tension issues | Check threading; adjust tension dial (usually 4 for normal). |
| Fabric not feeding | Presser foot pressure/feed dogs | Adjust pressure dial; ensure feed dogs are up and clean. |
| Buttonhole not forming | Incorrect steps/foot | Follow buttonhole steps in order; use buttonhole foot. |
Reset: Unplug machine for 1 minute if electronic issues occur.
Service: 1-800-284-4357; www.brother-usa.com