Brother PQ1500 Sewing Machine User Manual

PQ1500 Sewing Machine

SEWING MACHINE
PQ1500 OPERATION MANUAL

“IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS”

“Read all instructions before using.”

When using a sewing machine, basic safety precautions should always be taken,

DANGER To reduce the risk of electric shock.

including the following:

The sewing machine should never be left unattended while plugged in. Always unplug the sewing machine from the electrical outlet immediately after using and before

cleaning.

Always unplug before changing the light bulb. Replace bulb with same type rated 120V 15 watts for 120V model or rated 240V 15watts for 220-240V model.

WARNING To reduce the risk of burns, fire, electric shock, or injury.
Do not allow this sewing machine to be used as a toy. Close attention is necessary when the sewing machine is used by or near children. Use this sewing machine only for its intended use as described in this manual. Use only accessories recommended by the manufacturer as contained in this manual. Never operate this sewing machine if it has a damaged cord or plug, if it is not working properly, if it has been dropped or damaged, or dropped into water. Return the
sewing machine to the nearest authorized dealer or service center for examination, repair, electrical or mechanical adjustment. Never operate the sewing machine with any air openings blocked. Keep ventilation openings of the sewing machine and foot control free from the accumulation of lint,
dust, and loose cloth. Never drop or insert any object into any opening. Do not use outdoors. Do not operate where aerosol (spray) products are being used or where oxygen is being administered. To disconnect, turn the main switch to the symbol “O” position which represents off, then remove plug from outlet. Do not unplug by pulling on cord. To unplug, grasp the plug, not the cord. Keep fingers away from all moving parts. Special care is required around the sewing machine needle. Always use the proper needle plate. The wrong plate can cause the needle to break. Do not use bent needles. Do not pull or push fabric while stitching. It may deflect the needle causing it to break. Turn off power to the machine by flipping the ON/OFF switch to the symbol “O” before making any adjustments in the needle area, such as threading the needle,
changing the needle, threading the bobbin or changing the presser foot etc. Always unplug the sewing machine from the electrical outlet when removing covers, lubricating, or when making any other user servicing adjustments mentioned in the
instruction manual. This sewing machine is not intended for use by young children or infirm persons without supervision. Young children should be supervised to ensure that they do not play with this sewing machine.

CAUTION For U.S.A. only This appliance has a polarized plug (one blade wider than the other) to reduce the risk of electric shock, this plug
is intended to fit in a polarized outlet only one way.
If the plug does not fit fully in the outlet, reverse the plug. If it still does not fit. Contact a qualified electrician to install the proper outlet.
“SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS” Do not modify the plug in any way.

“This sewing machine is intended for household use.”

CONGRATULATIONS ON CHOOSING A BROTHER SEWING MACHINE
Your machine is the home use sewing machine available. To fully enjoy all the features incorporated into it, we suggest that you study this booklet.
PLEASE READ BEFORE USING YOUR SEWING MACHINE
For safe operation Be sure to watch the needle while sewing. Do not touch moving parts such as the balance wheel, thread take-up or needle while the machine is operating. Remember to turn off the power switch and unplug the cord when: Operation is completed Replacing or removing the needle or any other parts A power failure occurs during use Maintaining the machine Leaving the machine unattended Do not place anything on the foot controller. Plug the machine directly into the wall. Do not use extension cords.
For a longer service life When storing your sewing machine, avoid direct sunlight and high humidity locations. Do not store the sewing machine beside a space heater, iron, or other hot objects. Use only neutral soaps or detergents to clean the case. Benzene, thinner, and scouring powders can damage the case and machine, and should never be used. Do not drop or hit the machine. Always consult the operation manual when replacing any accessories, the presser feet, needle or other parts to assure correct installation.
For repair or adjustment In the event that a malfunction occurs or adjustment is required, first follow the troubleshooting table in the back of the operation manual to inspect and adjust the machine yourself. If the problem persists, please consult your nearest authorized Brother service center.

CONTENTS

CONTENTS Accessories

Names of Parts

Before You Begin

Changing Needles and Light Bulb

Accessories ……………………………………………………………..1 Name of Parts ………………………………………………………….. 2 Before You Begin ……………………………………………………..3
Tension Dial ……………………………………………………..3 Power Cord and Foot Controller …………………………. 3 Power Switch ……………………………………………………3 Hand Wheel ……………………………………………………..3 Stitch Length Regulator …………………………………….. 3 Reverse stitch lever ………………………………………….. 3 Presser Foot Lift Lever ………………………………………. 4 Knee Lift ………………………………………………………….. 4 Pressure Adjustment Dial ………………………………….. 4 Thread Cutter Button ………………………………………… 5 Needle Stop Position Button ………………………………. 5 Light Switch ……………………………………………………… 5 Feed Dog Adjustment Knob ……………………………….. 5 Changing Needles and Light Bulb ……………………………..6 Changing the Needle ………………………………………… 6 Changing the Feed Pin ……………………………………… 6 Changing Light Bulbs ………………………………………… 6 Threading ………………………………………………………………… 7 Bobbin Winding ………………………………………………… 7 Bobbin Insertion ……………………………………………….. 8 Upper Threading ……………………………………………….9 Using the Automatic Needle Threader …………………. 9 How to Pull Out the Bobbin Thread …………………… 10

Stitch Samples and Needle Chart ……………………………. 11 Stitch Samples ……………………………………………….. 11 Thread Tension ………………………………………………. 11
Changing Presser Feet …………………………………………… 12 Changing Presser Feet ……………………………………. 12 Presser Feet …………………………………………………..12
Basic Sewing ………………………………………………………….13 Basic Sewing …………………………………………………. 13 Pin Feeding (for hard-to-handle fabrics) …………….. 13 Pin Feeding Unit ……………………………………………..13 Rolled Hem Foot ……………………………………………..14 Zipper Foot …………………………………………………….. 15 Invisible Zipper Foot ………………………………………… 16 1/4″ Foot …………………………………………………………16 Quilting Foot ……………………………………………………17 Walking Foot …………………………………………………..17 Lining ……………………………………………………………. 18 Seam Guide ……………………………………………………18
Caring for Your Machine ………………………………………… 19 Cleaning the Machine ……………………………………… 19 Lubrication Points …………………………………………… 19
Trouble Shooting ……………………………………………………20

Threading

Stitch Samples and

Needle Chart Presser Feet

Changing

Basic Sewing

Caring for Your
Machine

Trouble Shooting

Accessories

No.

Part Name

1 Cover

2 Medium Screwdriver

3 Small Screwdriver

4 Cleaning Brush

5 Knee Lift

6 Needles and Case 1 Size 9

(ORGAN HLX5) 2 Size 11

1 Size 14

1 Size 16

1 Ballpoint Needle

7 Lining Plate Screw (2)

8 Fabric Separator

9 Feed Pin

10 Feed Pin Changer

11 General Purpose Foot

12 Bobbin (5)

13 Spool Cap

14 Rolled Hem Foot

15 Zipper Foot

16 Invisible Zipper Foot

17 1/4″ Foot

18 Quilting Foot

19 Walking Foot

20 Seam Guide

21 Foot Controller

Optional Accessories

22 Fabric Extension Table

Part Code XA0917-052 125877-001 125878-001 XA4527-001 XA0830-001
X80805-001
062670-812 184720-001 138483-001 117934-009 XA1425-001
SA159 XA2111-000 X57138-001 112797-001 148475-001 XA7258-001 XA7255-101 XA7253-001 XA7256-001 XA3931-051
SA506

Note Foot controller: Model N5V This foot controller can be used for sewing machine model PQ1500.

Trouble Shooting

Caring for Your
Machine

Basic Sewing

Changing Presser Feet

Stitch Samples and Needle Chart

Threading

Needles and Light Bulb

Before You Begin

Names of Parts

CONTENTS Accessories

Changing

Names of Parts

CONTENTS Accessories

Names of Parts

Before You Begin

Changing Needles and Light Bulb

Threading

Stitch Samples and

Needle Chart Presser Feet

Pressure Adjustment Dial (Page 4)

Three Holed Thread Guide (Page 9)

Light Switch (Page 5)
Thread Trimmer
Sewing Area Light (Page 6)

Automatic Needle Threader (Page 9 and 10)

Thread Cutter Button (Page 5)

Tension Dial (Page 3 and 11)
Feed Dogs (Page 5 and 13)

Thread Guide Bar (Page 7)

Stitch Length Regulator (Page 3)

Bobbin Winder (Page 7)

Indicator Lamp
Needle Stop Position Button (Page 5)

Hand Wheel (Page 3)
Power Switch (Page 3)

Reverse Stitch Lever (Page 3)

Power Socket (Page 3)

Feed Dog Adjustment Knob (Page 5)
Foot Controller Jack (Page 3)
Knee Lift (Page 4)

Air Vents

Handle

Thread Guide for Bobbin Winding (Page 7)
Presser Foot Lifter (Page 4)

Spool Cushion (Page 7)

Spool Pin (Page 7)

Changing

Basic Sewing

Caring for Your
Machine

Trouble Shooting

Before You Begin (1)

CONTENTS Accessories

Names of Parts

Before You Begin

Changing

Needles and Light Bulb

Threading

Tension Dial
When tighter tension is desired, turn the tension dial to the right. Upper and bobbin threads will meet on right side of the fabric.
When looser tension is desired, turn tension dial to the left. Upper and lower threads will then meet on wrong side of fabric.

Upper Thread Tension

Loosen

Tighten

Tension Block

Power Cord and Foot Controller
Note
Please use common household current.
Plug in cord. Plug foot controller into machine. Note Foot controller: Model N5V This foot controller can be used for sewing machine model PQ1500.
Power Switch
Flip power switch to “I” position to turn on.
To switch power off, flip switch to “O” position.

Power Cord Foot Controller
Power Switch

I O

Hand Wheel
Position needle using hand wheel.
Always turn hand wheel towards you.

Hand Wheel

Stitch Length Regulator
Adjust desired stitch length using stitch regulator dial.

3 2

Stitch length Reference Mark
1
Lower number = shorter stitches Higher number = longer stitches

Reverse Stitch Lever
Sewing in reverse is possible when the reverse stitch lever is in the lowered position.
Make sure to push the lever all the way down when reverse sewing is desired.
Stitch length for reverse stitches is set for at least 5 mm.

Stitch Length Regulator
Reverse Stitch Lever
3

Stitch Samples and Needle Chart

Changing Presser Feet

Basic Sewing

Caring for Your
Machine

Trouble Shooting

Presser Foot Lift Lever
Lowering the presser foot lift lever lowers the sewing foot down onto the fabric and engages the tension function.
When working with heavy fabrics or other fabrics that don’t slide easily under the foot, raise the presser foot lever to position the fabric.
Knee Lift
Using the convenient knee lift enables you to lift the presser foot easily leaving your hands free to work with the fabric.
Setting up the knee control.

Presser Foot Lift Lever
Knee Lift

Push the knee lift all the way in.

Pressure Adjustment Dial
Turning the pressure adjustment dial raises and lowers the pressure indicator needle.
See also: “Feed Dog Adjustment Knob” on page 5.

Pressure Adjustment Dial

Pressure indicator needle

Trouble Shooting

Caring for Your
Machine

Basic Sewing

Needle Chart Presser Feet

Changing

Stitch Samples and

Threading

Changing Needles and Light Bulb

Before You Begin

Names of Parts

CONTENTS Accessories

Names of Parts

Before You Begin

Changing

Needles and Light Bulb

Before You Begin (2)

Thread Cutter Button
Note
When the machine stops due to jammed threads and so forth, do not step on the foot controller until turning the power off and moving the needle with the hand wheel to check the situation. Otherwise broken needles could result.
The thread cutter trims upper and bobbin threads at the end of seams.
Needle Stop Position Button
When indicator lamp is lit up, the machine will stop sewing with the needle lowered through the fabric.
When indicator lamp is off, position of the needle when sewing stops will be random.
If the safety mechanism is activated, for example if the thread becomes tangled, the red lamp flashes.
Light Switch
Push light switch to turn the light over the sewing area on and off.

Thread Cutter Button Indicator Lamp
Needle Stop Position Button Light Switch

Feed Dog Adjustment Knob
Height of feed dogs can be adjusted to coincide with fabric weights.

Feed Dog Adjustment Knob
Foot Pressure and Feed Dog Position
(Feed Dogs Down) Velvet
(Pin Feeding) Lightweight Fabrics
Middleweight Fabrics Heavyweight Fabrics

Select one of four feed dog positions according to your needs.

Note If a setting other than

is selected, the feed pin will not operate.

Threading

Stitch Samples and Needle Chart

Changing Presser Feet

Basic Sewing

Caring for Your
Machine

Trouble Shooting

Changing Needles and Light Bulb

CONTENTS Accessories

Names of Parts

Before You Begin

Changing Needles and Light Bulb

Threading

Note
Please make sure power is off before carrying out
the following operations. There is a chance of injury if the machine accidentally starts running during
this operation.

Changing the Needle
1 Turn the sewing machine off. Raise needle to highest position using hand wheel, and lower presser foot.
2 Loosen screw with screwdriver, and remove needle.
3 Hold the needle with the flat side to the right, and insert the needle as far as it will go. Make sure needle is screwed in tightly.

Screwdriver

Changing the Feed Pin
1 Set the feed dogs to “velvet” position. (see Page 5)
2 Remove needle, presser foot and needle plate.
3 Lower presser foot and turn hand wheel until feed pin is in its highest position.
4 Insert small screwdriver (included) as shown in diagram.
5 While holding spring with fingertip, lower the feed pin changer onto the needle to pick it up.

Check needles on a flat surface to make sure they’re not bent.

The needle should lay parallel to a surface.
Flat surface
Lay needle on a flat surface (such as the needle plate or a plate of glass).

Note
HLX5 needles should be uses; however, Schmetz 130/ 705H may also be used under normal circumstances.
6

6 Attach new feed pin to feed pin changer, lower and attach while holding spring with fingertip.
7 Remove screwdriver. 8 Re-attach needle plate,
needle and presser foot.

Note
Please make sure power is off before carrying out the following operation. The glass plate over the light bulb will be hot immediately after using the machine, so you should wait until the machine has had a chance to cool down before changing bulbs.

Changing Light Bulbs

1 Turn off power.

Screwdriver

2 Remove screw from

head.

3 Remove bulb housing.

4 Unscrew bulb and remove.
5 Screw in new bulb. Sewing Light: See page 19.
6 Re-attach bulb housing and tighten screw.

230V

120V

Light Bulb

Stitch Samples and

Needle Chart Presser Feet

Changing

Basic Sewing

Caring for Your
Machine

Trouble Shooting

Threading (1)

CONTENTS Accessories

Names of Parts

Before You Begin

Changing

Needles and Light Bulb

Threading

Bobbin Winding

Note
Do not move bobbin stop while machine is running.

3 1

Spool Cushion

Spool Cap

Spool of Thread

4 – 9: See following illustrations.

1 Put spool of thread on spool pin.
Use spool cushion when using cross wound thread.

Use spool cap when using parallelwound thread.

2 1

Thread Notch 1 Thread Notch 2

Bobbin
Bobbin Winder Shaft

Guide Pin

Bobbin Stop

2 Lift thread guide bar all the way up, 3Run thread through bobbin winding 4 Run thread through top thread notch 5 Press bobbin stop up against empty

and run thread through triangular thread guide as shown in drawing.

1, and align bottom thread notch 2 bobbin. If the bobbin stop does not

thread guide as shown in drawing.

with guide pin on bobbin winder slide easily between the top and bot-

shaft.

tom of the bobbin, check that the bob-

bin is seated properly with the guide

7 pin (4) inserted into the lower notch.

Stitch Samples and Needle Chart

Changing Presser Feet

Basic Sewing

Caring for Your
Machine

Trouble Shooting

CONTENTS Accessories

Names of Parts

Before You Begin

Changing Needles and Light Bulb

* Place the thread end so that it does not protrude from the bobbin.

Bobbin Stop

6 While holding the end of the thread, step on the foot controller for a few seconds. Once enough thread has wound itself around the bobbin to hold itself in place, release the foot controller and trim the excess thread.

7 Stop winding when bobbin is full. Take foot off foot controller.

8 Manually move bobbin stop back to original position.

9 Cut thread and remove bobbin.

Bobbin Insertion

CAUTION Moving parts

To reduce risk of injury, switch off before servicing. Replace cover.

Latch Spring

Slide Plate

Threading

Stitch Samples and

Needle Chart Presser Feet

Changing

Basic Sewing

Caring for Your
Machine

Bobbin Door

Thread Notch Bobbin should be
positioned so it winds to the left

1 Lift slide plate (and open bobbin 2 Put bobbin into the bobbin case.

3 Pull the latch lever of the bobbin case 4 Lower slide plate and close bobbin

door).

out and push the bobbin case into the door, following numbers 1 2 above

Run thread through thread notch and shuttle race and release the latch lever. in order.

under latch spring, so that a length of

about 10 cm is exposed.

If the latch lever is not all the way on

Use a bobbin case with an idling prevention spring.

the hook, it may fly off during sewing and cause lower thread breakage.

Trouble Shooting

CONTENTS Accessories

Names of Parts

Threading (2)

Note Please turn power is off before using automatic needle threader. Accidentally stepping on the foot controller during this operation could cause bodily injury or damage to the machine.

Upper Threading

1 7

2 3

4 3

9 0
A

Make sure thread take-up lever is in highest position and presser foot is up.

When using polyester thread or thread

Using the Automatic Needle Threader

that tangles or breaks, run the thread through all three holes of the thread guide.

If the thread is still tangles or breaks, run the thread through the holes backwards as shown in diagram.

Before You Begin

Changing

Needles and Light Bulb

Threading

Stitch Samples and Needle Chart

Changing Presser Feet

Basic Sewing

Caring for Your
Machine

Automatic Needle Threader

Thread Pin

Hook

1 Pull hand wheel towards you until needle is in 3 Lower automatic needle threader. 4 Catch thread with hook.

5 Turn the hook and raise needle

the highest position, and lower presser foot. Pull thread along the right side of the pin.

threader lever while gently holding

2 Take thread in your left hand, and Do not force the needle threader lower than the Pull thread to the right, and make the end of the thread.

gently pull it forwards.

eye of the needle which is in the highest position. sure it has been caught with the hook.

Trouble Shooting

CONTENTS Accessories

Names of Parts

Needle (HLX5)

Thread

#30 #50 #60

#11

#30

#14

#30

#16

#20

The automatic needle threader cannot be used with the threadneedle combinations illustrated in the chart to the left. Transparent nylon thread can be used regardless of the chart, providing the needle used is a #14 or #16.

6 Pull loop to the right.
How to Pull Out the Bobbin Thread

Before You Begin

Changing Needles and Light Bulb

Threading

Stitch Samples and

Needle Chart Presser Feet

Changing

Basic Sewing

Caring for Your
Machine

Trouble Shooting

Insert threaded bobbin in sewing 2 Pull up the upper thread to pull the 3 Pull approximately 15 cm of upper

machine and then begin.

bobbin thread out.

and bobbin threads out.

1 While gently holding the end of the needle thread, turn the hand wheel towards you to raise the needle.
10 Turn the hand wheel once completely.

Lift foot and run both upper and bobbin threads under and behind presser foot.

Stitch Samples and Needle Chart

CONTENTS Accessories

Names of Parts

Before You Begin

Changing

Needles and Light Bulb

Threading

Stitch Samples
1 Set stitch length regulator to desired stitch length.
2 Make sure approximately 15 cm of upper and bobbin threads are pulled out and laying behind presser foot. While needle is in raised position, insert a test strip from the garment fabric under the foot.
3 Lower presser foot. 4 Lower needle through fabric,
then step gently on presser foot and begin.
5 Raise needle to highest point. 6 Lift presser foot, remove fabric
and then cut thread.
When using thread cutter: 5 Push thread cutter button 6 Lift foot and remove fabric.

Thread Tension

Bobbin thread should feed smoothly. Adjust bobbin thread to match that of upper thread. (If bobbin thread is too tight it may cause fabric to bunch up)

Correct thread tension
Fabric Upper Thread

Wrong side of fabric

Right side of Fabric

Lower Thread

Upper Thread

Adjust needle thread tension with dial

to increase needle thread tension

to reduce bobbin tension

Bobbin tension . . .

Proper When it is strong

Lower Thread

Wrong side of fabric

Adjust needle thread tension with dial

Using the thread tension can lead to such undesirable results as messy stitches, puckered seams

Right side of Fabric

Lower Thread
Upper Thread

to reduce needle thread tension
to increase bobbin tension

and thread breakage.

Bobbin tension . . .

Proper When it is week

Selecting the proper needle for use with the fabric and thread you are working with. The following chart applies to many different sewing methods.

Special fabric
Light weight fabrics
Middle weight fabrics Heavy weight fabrics

Fabric – Thread – Needles

Cloth

Thread

Velvet

Silk, Polyester #30 #50

Quilt

Polyester #20 #50

Synthetic Suede

Polyester #20 #50

Knit

Polyester #20 #50

Coating

Polyester #50

Lawn

Cotton #80

Tricot

Polyester #60

Silk Georgette

Silk #50

Wool Georgette

Silk, Polyester #50

Gingham

Cotton #60 #80

Lightweight Jersey

Polyester #60

Gabardine, Flannel Silk #50

Denim

Cotton #20 #50

Jersey

Polyester #20 #50

Tweed

Silk #20 #50

Needle (HLX5) #11 #14
#11 #16
#11 #14

HLX5
#9 #11 #14 #16

Schmetz 130/705H
#65 #75 #90 #100

#11 #11 #14
#11 #14 #18 #11 #16

HLX5 needles are recommended; however, Schmetz 130/705H needles may
also be used under normal sewing conditions.
Adjust pressure of sewing foot and drop feet height according to chart.
11 When sewing on knit fabrics such as jersey or tricot, use a ballpoint needle or other needle designed for use with knit fabrics.

Stitch Samples and Needle Chart

Changing Presser Feet

Basic Sewing

Caring for Your
Machine

Trouble Shooting

Changing Presser Feet

Note Make sure the power is off before changing presser feet.
Changing Presser Feet (Zipper Foot)
1 Raise presser foot, and raise needle to highest position.
2 Loosen and remove screw using screwdriver.
3 Attach zipper foot and tighten screw.
Use the same method to attach the other feet that come with your PQ1500.
See page 17 for directions on attaching the Walking Foot.
Use the position knob on back of the zipper foot to adjust position of foot in relation to needle.
Only the zipper foot has a position knob. You can begin sewing with all other presser feet immediately after attaching.
12

Presser Feet
Pin Feed Foot For perfect stitching on otherwise difficult fabrics like velvet, leather and suede.
Rolled Hem Foot Use on the edges of fabric, such as on hems of dress shirts, to fold the edge of the fabric in three while sewing.
Invisible Zipper Foot Use to attach concealed fasteners.
Quilting Foot Spring action foot for darning, quilting or free-motion embroidery.

Use only feet supplied with your PQ1500. Each foot is specially designed for this machine and has clearance for the pin at the rear of each foot. Use of other presser feet with the PQ series machines may damage or break the pin mechanism.
General purpose Foot This foot is used for most sewing. (Can also be used for sewing thick fabrics or seams.)
When sewing thick seams, lightly guide the fabric with your hand and on the downward side of the seam.
Can also be used with pin feeding
Zipper Foot Use to attach fasteners other than concealed fasteners.
1/4″ Foot For quilt and patchwork piecing with 1/4″ or 1/8″ seam allowance.
Walking Foot For sewing or quilting on fabrics which stick or tend to slip Useful for sewing multiple layers as in quilting.

Trouble Shooting

Caring for Your
Machine

Basic Sewing

Needle Chart Presser Feet

Changing

Stitch Samples and

Threading

Changing Needles and Light Bulb

Before You Begin

Names of Parts

CONTENTS Accessories

Basic Sewing (1)

Basic Sewing

Before sewing.

Begin sewing.

Finish Sewing.

When changing sewing directions.

Reinforcement stitches 1 cm

Names of Parts

Before You Begin

Changing

Needles and Light Bulb

Threading

Stitch Samples and Needle Chart

Changing Presser Feet

1 cm

1 Lift foot, pull about 15 cm of upper and bobbin thread under and behind foot, and position fabric under foot.

2 Lower foot. 3 While needle is pierced all the way
through fabric, step gently on foot controller.

4 Raise needle to highest position. 5 Lift foot, remove fabric and cut
thread. When using thread trimmer: 4 Push thread trimmer button (this will
cause the upper and bobbin threads to be cut automatically and the needle to stop in a raised position.) 5 Lift presser foot and remove fabric.

1 Make sure needle is pierced all the way through fabric.
2 Lift presser foot, and turn fabric using needle as an axis.
3 Lower foot continue sewing.

At the beginning of a seam, sew a few stitches with the hand wheel, hit the reverse stitch button and sew a few stitches back to reinforce your seam, then go back to normal sewing and finish the seam. Do the same at the end of a seam.

Pin Feeding (for hard-to-handle fabrics)

Fabric: Velvet Quilt Synthetic Suede Knit Coading Others

Indicator Needle

Pin Feeding Unit
Feed Pin

Fabric Feed Pin Feed Dog

The above fabrics can be sewed neatly by sewing by pin feeding.

1 Move feed adjustment knob to pin feeding position.

2 Adjust pressure adjustment dial until indicator needle is in the right position.

3 Gently pull thread until feed pin catches fabric and sew.

The feed pin passes up through all layers of fabric moving with the feed dog’s motion to feed all layers of the fabric evenly.
13 For safety, the feed pin is automatically lowered when presser foot is raised.

Basic Sewing

Caring for Your
Machine

Trouble Shooting

Basic Sewing (2)

Note Make sure power is off before changing feet.

Rolled Hem Foot
1 Attach rolled hem foot. Refer to page 12 for instructions
on changing sewing feet.
2 Insert needle approximately 0.5 cm from the edges of the fabric and sew 2 stitches.
3 Raise needle and foot, pull fabric towards you.

0.5 cm

4 Hold the 4 threads in your left hand.

5 With your right hand, put the edge of the rolled hem under the presser foot, from the spot where the threads come out. Insert the edge so that it lies directly under the needle.
6 Pull gently on threads in left hand while sewing the first 3-4 stitches to hold them in place.
7 Fold hem over about 0.5 cm and continue feeding folded hem under foot while sewing.

Rolled Hem

Trouble Shooting

Caring for Your
Machine

Basic Sewing

Needle Chart Presser Feet

Changing

Stitch Samples and

Threading

Changing Needles and Light Bulb

Before You Begin

Names of Parts

CONTENTS Accessories

Basic Sewing (3)

Note
· Make sure power is off before changing feet. · When attaching zippers to stretch fabrics, use the pin feed method
and adjust foot pressure accordingly.
Zipper Foot
1 Attach zipper foot. 2 Turn hand wheel to lower needle
and adjust position of foot to needle.
A

3 Line up zipper to the section of fabric it will be attached to, and mark the base of the opening on the fabric. It should be set approximately 0.5 cm below zip stop.

Slide 0.5 cm

Stop

Base of Opening

4 Fold hem about 0.2 cm from mark, and make a mark along the edge. Separate the seam allowance.

0.2 cm

5 Sew zipper onto fabric along mark.
Make sure the needle does not strike the metal part of the zipper when sewing. The needle may break and cause injury.
6 Line up folded seam to stitches.
7 Change position of zipper foot. 8 Turn hand wheel to lower needle
and make sure the needle and position of the foot are lined up properly.
9 Baste zipper onto fabric and sew along edge with fabric right side up.
Reinforce base of opening by sewing over it twice.
If the zipper slide gets in the way, lower the needle all the way through the fabric, lift the foot, and move the slider out of the way.

B
15

Trouble Shooting

Caring for Your
Machine

Basic Sewing

Changing Presser Feet

Stitch Samples and Needle Chart

Threading

Needles and Light Bulb

Before You Begin

Names of Parts

CONTENTS Accessories

Changing

Invisible Zipper Foot
1 Attach invisible zipper foot. 2 Align zipper with fabric. Mark the
base of the opening approximately 2 cm above the end of the zipper.

Slide

Teeth

Base of Opening
2cm

3 Separate the seam allowance. 4 Line up zipper with fabric on the
wrong side of the fabric, open zipper, and baste zipper to the fabric.

Basting

5 Sew the zipper to the fabric with the wrong side of the zipper and fabric up.
When sewing with the teeth to the right, the left side of the foot should line up with the left teeth of the zipper.
16

1/4″ Foot
Sewing machine settings: Stitch length = 2 – 2.5
· Sew a consistent seam allowance (1/4″, 6.4 mm) when piecing together a quilt.

Seam allowance (1/4″, 6.4 mm)

· Use guides (mark) to begin, end, or pivot 1/4″ from edge of fabric.

Beginning of stitching

Align this mark with edge of fabric

End of stitching

Align this mark with edge of fabric

· Accurately top stitch 1/8″ from seam.

Top of fabric

Seam (1/8″, 3.2 mm)

Trouble Shooting

Caring for Your
Machine

Basic Sewing

Needle Chart Presser Feet

Changing

Stitch Samples and

Threading

Changing Needles and Light Bulb

Before You Begin

Names of Parts

CONTENTS Accessories

Quilting Foot
Reduce the foot presser and turn the dial on the machine lowering the feed dogs for free motion quilting. Also the needle threader will not work when this foot is in use.

Walking Foot

Note
· Do not press the pedal all the way down. Try to keep the sewing speed below 70% of the maxinum speed.
· The cloth may not feed if you sew at high speeds.
· The feed dog for feeding the cloth may not move if the clamping pressure on the cloth is too strong.
· It is not advisable or necessary to use the Pin Feed mode with the walking foot.

Secure the capscrew 2 with a screwdriver.

1 Insert the forked part of the operation lever while raised in an upright position onto the screw as shown and then insert the capscrew.
2 Tighten the screw securely with a screwdriver. Tightening adequately is important as the screw might loosen due to the foot and forked operation lever vibration.

Forked part 1 of operation
lever

Trouble Shooting

Caring for Your
Machine

Basic Sewing

Changing Presser Feet

Stitch Samples and Needle Chart

Threading

Needles and Light Bulb

Before You Begin

Names of Parts

CONTENTS Accessories

Changing

CONTENTS Accessories

Names of Parts

Before You Begin

Changing Needles and Light Bulb

Lining
1 Raise needle and foot. 2 Move separator so it sits under
presser foot. 3 Make sure it is lined up so that
the needle passes through the slot of the separator without hitting the plate itself. 4 Secure liner plate in place with lining plate screws. 5 Set pressure of sewing feet and feed position to pin feeding position. 6 Pull thread until lower needle catches fabric.
Sew 2-3 reinforcement stitches.
7 When not using separator, it can be swung off to the side as illustrated in drawing.

Needle Separator

· Use the separator to neatly sew 2 hard to manage fabrics together by keeping them from interacting with one and other before the needle sews them together in a perfect seam.

Fabric Separator
Needle Lining
Separator Velvets

Seam Guide
1 Tighten the screw securely with a screwdriver since it might otherwise loosen due to vibration. 1
Installation
To be able to adjust the position of the foot towards the arrow.

Threading

Stitch Samples and

Needle Chart Presser Feet

Changing

Basic Sewing

Caring for Your
Machine

Trouble Shooting

Note
· Lighten the presser foot pressure slightly when using the fabric separator.
18

Adjustment

Caring for Your Machine

CONTENTS Accessories

Names of Parts

Before You Begin

Changing

Needles and Light Bulb

Threading

Cleaning the Machine
Note
Make sure power is off before cleaning sewing machine.
1 Turn machine off. 2 Remove foot. 3 Remove needle plate.
4 Clean out dust and thread scraps.
Thread scraps can be swept out through the bobbin door.

5 When the area under the needle plate is cleaned out, oil hook of bobbin case with sewing machine oil.
Use a cloth to clean the machine of any excess oil.
6 Attach needle plate and foot.

Hook

Lubrication Points
Oil the machine approximately once per month.
Use a cloth to wipe the machine clean of any oil spilled near the lubrication points.

Keep Your Sewing Machine Clean Please use a soft, dry cloth to wipe off light dirt and dust. If sewing machine is very dirty, wipe with a cloth soaked in warm water, or in warm water containing a neutral detergent. Then wipe off any detergent residue, and wipe off water with a dry cloth.
Precautions Please keep sewing machine away from heat sources such as irons and space heaters. Do not use chemicals like benzine or thinner to clean your machine. When machine is not in use, please keep machine out of direct sunlight.

Item Sewing Speed (maximum) Stitch Length (pitch) Stroke of Needle Stroke of Thread Take-Up Lever
Foot Height

Specification 1,500 stitches per minute
0 7 mm 34.1 mm

64.7 mm

Foot Lift Knee control

One 6 mm Two 9 mm Over 10 mm

Item Height of feed dog

Specification 0.7 mm 1.1 mm

Height of lower needle

3 mm 3.5 mm

Needles that

HLX5#9 #18

may be used SCHMETZ 130/705H #65 #100

Bed dimensions

439 mm × 178 mm

Total weight

11 kg

Sewing Light 120V model: 120V/15W

Parts code: X53061-000

220-240V model: 240V/15W

Parts cord: 205336-000

Sewing area

595 mm × 285 mm

Stitch Samples and Needle Chart

Changing Presser Feet

Basic Sewing

Caring for Your
Machine

Trouble Shooting

Before taking your sewing machine in for service, check the following chart.

Thread Breakage

Upper threading is not

threaded correctly.

Re-thread machine

properly.

Thread is getting tangled.

Rethread machine.

Clean bobbin case and under needle plate. Oil the machine.

8-10.19

Upper thread tension is too high.

Reduce tension.

Bobbin Thread Breakage
Skipped Stitches

Bobbin thread is not passing

correctly from bobbin case.

Reinsert bobbin

properly.

Needle is not attached correctly.

Reattach.

Thread is getting tangled.

Rethread machine.

Clean bobbin case and under needle plate.

8-10.19

Wrong needle.

See chart on p.11 to choose the

needle that best fits your fabric-thread combination.

Bobbin tension is too high.

Reduce tension.

Needle is bent, or tip is dulled.

Change needles.

Fabric Puckers
Fabric Won’t Feed Properly or Irregular Stitches

Threading is incorrect.

Rethread machine.

8-10

Stitch length is too short.

Adjust stitch length.

Wrong needle for the fabric

and thread you are using.

See chart on p.11 to choose the

needle that best fits your fabric-thread combination.

Pressure of sewing foot is too weak.

Increase foot pressure.

Upper thread tension is too high.

Reduce tension.

Sewing heavyweight fabric with feed dogs in lightweight fabric position.

Adjust feed dogs.

Loop In Seam
Needle Breakage

Upper threading is

incorrect.

Re-thread machine

properly.

Needle is not attached correctly.

Reattach.

Thread is not passing through bobbin case correctly.

Reset bobbin case.

Wrong needle.

Change needles.

Improper fabric/needle/

thread combination.

See chart on p.11 for the right

needle to use with your fabric and thread.

Improper fabric/needle/

thread combination.

See chart on p.11 for the right

needle to use with your fabric and thread.

Sewing Machine Doesn’t Run

The power isn’t on. Turn the power on.

Machine’s not plugged in.

The foot controller has come unplugged.

Check to make sure the

machine’s plugged in.

Reattach foot controller.

Machine Is

The area under the needle plate needs to be cleaned.

Machine is out of oil.

Noisy

Clean feed dog and bobbin case.

Oil the machine.

Automatic Needle Threader Doesn’t Work

Needle is not raised all the way up. Turn hand wheel to raise needle.

Wrong needle for the thread you’re using.

See chart on p.11.

Hook of needle threader doesn’t pass through eye of needle. Check to make sure the hook isn’t bent.

Thread Cutter

Needle is not properly attached.

Doesn’t Work Reattach.

Wrong needle.

See chart on p.11 to choose the

needle that best fits your fabric-thread combination.

Needle is bent, or tip is dulled.

Change needles.

Improper fabric/needle/

thread combination.

See chart on p.11 for the right

needle to use with your fabric and thread.

Bobbin case is scratched.
Remove needle plate and check bobbin case.

Area under needle

plate needs to be cleaned.

Clean feed dog and bobbin

case. Oil the machine.

Bobbin tension is too high.

Reduce tension.

Thread is getting tangled.
Rethread machine. Clean needle
plate and bobbin case. 8-10.19

You’re pulling the fabric

too hard.

Pull the fabric

more gently.

13-16

Machine is out of oil.

Clean and oil the

machine.

Using the automatic needle

threader incorrectly.

Check the use of the auto-

matic needle threader.

Area under needle plate

needs to be cleaned.

Clean feed dog and

bobbin case.

Bobbin case is scratched.
Remove needle plate and check bobbin case.

Machine is not threaded properly.

Rethread machine.

8-10

You’re sewing a lightweight fabric with feed dogs in heavyweight position.

Adjust feed dogs.

The automatic safety device has operated.

Upper threading is incorrect.

Rethread.

If you still cannot find the problem, please take your sewing machine into the shop where you purchased it, or your nearest Brother dealer for repair.

Trouble Shooting

Caring for Your
Machine

Basic Sewing

Needle Chart Presser Feet

Changing

Stitch Samples and

Threading

Changing Needles and Light Bulb

Before You Begin

Names of Parts

CONTENTS Accessories

ENGLISH 116-635 193635-0061 Printed in Japan

Download

Brother PQ1500 Sewing Machine User Manual

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