Manual for Brother Sewing Machine SQ9285

The Brother SQ9285 is a versatile computerized sewing machine featuring 130 built-in stitches, automatic needle threader, drop-in bobbin system, LCD display, adjustable sewing speed, built-in buttonhole styles, free arm capability, and multiple presser feet. It operates on 120V AC, 60Hz power. 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 7. Threading and Bobbin 8. Maintenance and Cleaning 9. Accessories and Feet 10. Safety Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Computerized control panel, LCD display, automatic needle threader, drop-in bobbin system, free arm, accessory storage, foot pedal, power adapter.

FeatureDescription
Built-in Stitches130 stitches including utility, decorative, and quilting
Automatic Needle ThreaderEasily threads needle with lever mechanism
Drop-in BobbinTop-loading, jam-resistant bobbin system
LCD DisplayShows selected stitch, length, width, and settings
Adjustable Speed ControlSlider for slow to high sewing speed
Buttonhole Styles7 one-step automatic buttonholes
Free ArmRemovable extension table for cylindrical sewing
Needle Up/DownButton to set needle position
Presser FeetIncludes zigzag, buttonhole, zipper, blind hem, and more
Power Source120V AC, 60Hz adapter

Unpacking and Setup

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

  1. Remove machine from box: Lift by carrying handle, not by accessories.
  2. Attach extension table: Slide onto free arm until it clicks.
  3. Connect foot pedal: Plug into machine port.
  4. Connect power: Plug adapter into machine, then into wall outlet.
  5. Install needle: Loosen screw, insert needle flat side back, tighten.

WARNING! Machine is heavy; use both hands when lifting. Ensure power is off during setup.

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; follow initial setup steps.

  1. Wind bobbin: Place thread on spool pin, guide through tension, wind on bobbin.
  2. Insert bobbin: Drop into bobbin case, pull thread through slot.
  3. Thread upper thread: Follow numbered path, use automatic needle threader.
  4. Select stitch: Turn dial or press buttons to choose stitch.
  5. Test sew: Place fabric, lower presser foot, press foot pedal gently.

CAUTION! Keep fingers away from needle area during operation. Always turn off when not in use.

Specifications

Controls and Functions

Access functions via control panel buttons and dial. Front Panel: POWER, START/STOP, NEEDLE UP/DOWN, REVERSE, SPEED SLIDER.

LCD Display: Shows stitch number, length, width, and recommended foot. Stitch Selection: Turn dial or use +/- buttons. Settings: Adjust stitch length (0-5mm), width (0-7mm), tension (0-9). Utility: Auto-lock, mirror imaging, memory functions.

Stitch Selection and Settings

Select from 130 stitches: utility, decorative, heirloom, quilting.

  1. Turn stitch selector dial to desired category.
  2. Use +/- buttons to choose specific stitch number.
  3. Adjust length/width with corresponding buttons.
  4. For buttonholes: Select buttonhole style, place fabric under foot, press start.
  5. For mirror imaging: Press MIRROR button to flip stitch horizontally.

Tip: Refer to stitch chart for recommended fabric and foot.

Threading and Bobbin

Upper threading: Follow numbered path on machine.

  1. Raise presser foot and needle to highest position.
  2. Place spool on pin, guide thread through tension discs.
  3. 3. Use automatic needle threader: Lower lever, hook thread, release.

Bobbin winding:

  1. Place thread on spool pin, wind around bobbin tension.
  2. Place bobbin on winder, push to right, hold thread end, press pedal.
  3. Stop when full, cut thread, push winder left.

WARNING! Always thread with presser foot up. Ensure bobbin is inserted correctly.

Maintenance and Cleaning

Unplug before maintenance. Clean lint regularly.

  1. Remove needle plate: Use screwdriver to loosen screws.
  2. Clean feed dogs and bobbin area with brush.
  3. Oil sparingly: Use sewing machine oil on moving parts per manual.
  4. Wipe exterior with dry cloth.

CAUTION! Do not use compressed air; avoid water or chemicals.

Accessories and Feet

Included accessories: assorted presser feet, bobbins, needles, screwdriver, brush, seam ripper, spool caps.

Presser FootUse
Zigzag FootGeneral sewing
Buttonhole FootAutomatic buttonholes
Zipper FootInstalling zippers
Blind Hem FootInvisible hems
Overcasting FootPreventing fraying
Walking FootEven feeding for quilting

Safety Information

UL listed; complies with safety standards. Keep away from children. Unplug when not in use. Use correct needle for fabric. Never sew over pins.

WARNING! Risk of electric shock; do not operate with wet hands. Avoid using damaged cords.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Machine not runningPower/foot pedalCheck power connection; ensure foot pedal plugged in.
Thread bunchingThreading/tensionRe-thread upper and bobbin; adjust tension; clean bobbin area.
Needle breaksWrong needle/bentReplace needle; ensure correct type and insertion.
Uneven stitchesTension/fabricAdjust tension; use stabilizer for stretch fabrics.
Buttonhole not formingFoot/stitch settingUse buttonhole foot; select correct buttonhole style.
LCD blankPower/connectionCheck power; reset by unplugging for 1 minute.

Reset: Unplug for 5 minutes to reset computer.

Service: 1-877-888-0999; www.brother-usa.com

Manual for Brother Sewing Machine SQ9285 © - All Rights Reserved 2025