SM3701 Brother Sewing Machine Manual

The Brother SM3701 is a versatile, user-friendly sewing machine designed for beginners and intermediate sewers. It features 37 built-in stitches, an automatic needle threader, a drop-in top bobbin system, a one-step buttonhole, and variable speed control. This manual provides comprehensive guidance on setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting to help you get the most out of your machine.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Unpacking and Setup 3. First-Time Operation 4. Specifications 5. Parts and Controls 6. Threading the Machine 7. Selecting Stitches 8. Maintenance & Cleaning 9. Troubleshooting 10. Warranty & Support

Features at a Glance

Key components: Main body with stitch selection dial, Bobbin case and shuttle, Foot pedal, Power cord and adapter, Accessory box with presser feet, needles, and bobbins.

Feature	Description
Built-in Stitches	37 stitches including utility, decorative, and heirloom
Automatic Needle Threader	Easily threads the needle with a simple lever
Drop-in Top Bobbin	Easy-to-see, jam-resistant bobbin system
One-Step Buttonhole	Creates a perfectly sized buttonhole in one step
Variable Speed Control	Slider allows for precise speed adjustment
LED Lighting	Brightens the sewing area
Free Arm	Converts for sewing cuffs and sleeves
Stitch Selection Dial	Turn to select desired stitch pattern
Reverse Sewing Lever	Hold to reinforce stitches
Presser Foot Pressure Dial	Adjusts for different fabric thicknesses

Unpacking and Setup

Carefully unpack all components and place the machine on a stable, flat surface.

Remove all packaging materials from the machine and accessories.
Place the machine on a sturdy table near a power outlet.
Connect the foot pedal to the machine port.
Plug the power cord into the machine and then into a 120V AC outlet.
Attach the accessory box to the right side of the machine.

WARNING! Do not place the machine on an unstable surface. Ensure the power switch is OFF before plugging in.

First-Time Operation

Power on the machine and prepare for your first stitch.

Raise the presser foot lever and insert a needle correctly (flat side to the back).
Wind a bobbin using the built-in bobbin winder on top of the machine.
Install the bobbin into the drop-in bobbin case following the diagram.
Thread the upper thread using the automatic needle threader.
Select a straight stitch (pattern #1) using the stitch selection dial.
Place fabric under the presser foot, lower the foot, and gently press the foot pedal to sew.

CAUTION! Keep fingers away from the needle while sewing. Always turn the handwheel towards you.

Specifications

Model: Brother SM3701
Stitches: 37 Built-in stitches
Buttonholes: 1 One-step automatic buttonhole
Needle Threader: Automatic
Bobbin System: Drop-in, top-loading
Speed Control: Variable with slider
Lighting: LED light
Presser Feet: Includes buttonhole foot, zipper foot, blind hem foot, and more
Power Supply: 120V AC, 60Hz
Warranty: 25-year limited warranty

Parts and Controls

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

Front Panel: Stitch Selection Dial, Stitch Width Dial, Stitch Length Dial, Reverse Sewing Lever, Needle Up/Down Button.

Right Side: Power Switch, Power/Speed Control Socket, Foot Pedal Socket.

Needle Area: Presser Foot Lever, Presser Foot, Needle Clamp Screw, Automatic Needle Threader Lever, Drop-in Bobbin Cover.

Accessories: Included presser feet are stored in the accessory box.

Threading the Machine

Correct threading is essential for proper stitch formation.

Raise the presser foot and needle to the highest position using the handwheel.
Place the spool of thread on the spool pin.
Follow the numbered threading guide on the machine, guiding the thread through each guide.
Pull the thread towards you and hook it into the automatic needle threader lever. Gently push the lever down to thread the needle.
Pull the thread under the presser foot towards the back.

Tip: Ensure the presser foot is raised when threading to allow the thread to seat properly in the tension discs.

Selecting Stitches

The machine offers 37 stitches for various fabrics and projects.

Refer to the stitch chart on the front of the machine or in the manual.
Turn the Stitch Selection Dial to align your chosen stitch number with the indicator mark.
For zigzag or decorative stitches, adjust the Stitch Width Dial. For all stitches, adjust the Stitch Length Dial.
For buttonholes: Attach the buttonhole foot, select the buttonhole stitch (#36), and follow the one-step process.
Test your selected stitch on a scrap of your project fabric before beginning.

WARNING! Do not force the stitch selection dial. Ensure the needle is in the highest position before changing stitches.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular cleaning ensures optimal performance and longevity.

Unplug the machine before any maintenance. Use the small brush provided to remove lint and dust from the feed dogs, bobbin case, and shuttle area. Oil the machine only as specified in the manual using sewing machine oil. Wipe the exterior with a soft, dry cloth.

CAUTION! Never use compressed air to clean the machine as it can force lint into the mechanism. Do not immerse any part of the machine in water.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Thread bunching underneath	Incorrect bobbin threading	Re-thread the bobbin, ensuring it turns in the correct direction (counterclockwise).
Needle breaks	Wrong needle type, bent needle, or incorrect insertion	Replace with a new needle suitable for your fabric. Ensure flat side faces the back.
Machine does not sew	Power issue, foot pedal unplugged	Check power switch, ensure cord is plugged into machine and wall outlet, check foot pedal connection.
Uneven stitches	Incorrect threading or tension	Re-thread both top and bobbin threads. Adjust thread tension dial slightly.
Fabric not feeding	Presser foot is up, feed dogs lowered	Lower the presser foot. Check that the feed dog lever is in the raised position.

Reset: Turn the power off and unplug the machine for 60 seconds to reset the electronic components.

Warranty & Support

This Brother sewing machine is covered by a 25-year limited warranty. The warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal household use. For warranty service or technical support, contact Brother International Corporation.

Support: 1-877-467-4289; www.brother-usa.com