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Brother 888-F50 User Manual

Brother 888-F50
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Operation Manual
Sewing Machine
Product Code: 888-F50/F52/F60/F62/F70/F72
Be sure to read this document before using the machine.
We recommend that you keep this document nearby for future reference.

Table of Contents

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Brother 888-F50 Specifications

General IconGeneral
BrandBrother
Model888-F50
CategorySewing Machine
LanguageEnglish

Summary

Introduction

Important Safety Instructions

Essential safety guidelines to follow before operating the sewing machine.

About This Manual

What You Can Do With This Machine

Overview of Machine Sections

Introduction to key sections: Basic Operations, Sewing, Decorative Sewing, and Appendix.

B Basic Operations Overview

Chapter 1: Getting Ready

Covers machine parts, functions, and initial setup procedures.

Chapter 2: Starting to Sew

Detailed guide on preparing for sewing and performing basic operations.

Machine Parts Identification

Front View Components

Identification and function of parts visible from the front of the sewing machine.

Right-Side/Rear View Components

Identification and function of parts visible from the right side and rear of the sewing machine.

Machine Controls and Interface

Needle and Presser Foot Area

Details on the needle, presser foot, bobbin case, and related parts.

Operation Buttons and Controls

Explanation of the various buttons for machine operation and stitch selection.

Operation Panel and LCD Guide

Operation Panel Layout

Description of the keys on the operation panel for controlling machine functions.

LCD Screen Indicators

Explanation of icons and information displayed on the LCD screen.

Using Machine Attachments and Accessories

Flat Bed Attachment Usage

Instructions on how to use and remove the flat bed attachment for various sewing tasks.

Included Accessories List

Optional Accessories Catalog

Model-Specific Functions and Stitch Tables

Functions Available by Model

Table detailing functions that vary depending on the sewing machine model.

Utility Stitch Tables Reference

Reference for utility stitch numbers based on machine model and stitch name.

Turning the Machine On/Off

LCD Screen Overview

Understanding LCD Displays and Indicators

Explanation of the various icons, item names, and page references shown on the LCD.

LCD Settings Navigation

Navigating the Settings Screen

Instructions on how to use keys to navigate and change settings on the LCD screen.

Advanced LCD Settings and Customization

Customizing Machine Operations via LCD

Details on adjusting settings like buzzer, lights, brightness, sensitivity, and language.

LCD Customization Options

Choosing Display Language

Procedure for selecting the desired language for the machine's display.

Adjusting Input Sensitivity

Guide to adjusting the sensitivity of the operation buttons for optimal response.

Bobbin Winding and Installation

Winding the Bobbin Correctly

Step-by-step instructions on how to wind thread onto a bobbin correctly.

Bobbin Installation and Threading

Installing the Bobbin Correctly

Instructions for inserting the wound bobbin into the bobbin case for proper sewing.

Upper Threading Procedures

Threading the Upper Thread

Detailed steps for passing the upper thread through the machine's guides.

Needle Threading Methods

Using the Automatic Needle Threader

Step-by-step guide on using the needle threader for efficient threading.

Manual Needle Threading

Instructions for threading the needle manually when the automatic threader is not used.

Bobbin Thread Handling

Pulling Up the Bobbin Thread

Procedure for pulling up the bobbin thread before starting sewing, for tasks like quilting.

Using the Twin Needle

Needle Replacement and Selection

Fabric/Thread/Needle Combinations

Table for selecting appropriate needles and threads based on fabric type.

Needle Handling and Replacement

Checking the Needle for Straightness

Procedure to verify the needle is straight before use to prevent breakage.

Replacing the Needle Safely

Step-by-step guide on how to safely remove and install a sewing machine needle.

Presser Foot Management

Replacing the Presser Foot

Detailed instructions for safely changing the presser foot on the sewing machine.

Presser Foot Holder Operations

Removing and Attaching the Presser Foot Holder

Guide for removing and reattaching the presser foot holder for maintenance or specific feet.

Chapter 2: Utility Stitches

Basic Stitching Techniques

Steps for performing fundamental stitches like basting and straight stitches.

Sewing Operations and Stitching

Sewing a Basic Stitch

Comprehensive guide on selecting stitches, installing presser feet, and starting the sewing process.

Reinforcement and Automatic Stitching

Sewing Reinforcement Stitches

Techniques for using reverse and reinforcement stitches at the beginning/end of seams.

Automatic Reinforcement Stitching Function

How to enable automatic reinforcement stitches for selected stitch patterns.

Stitch Adjustment Settings

Setting the Stitch Width

Instructions for adjusting the stitch width (zigzag width) for desired results.

Setting the Stitch Length

Guide to adjusting the stitch length for coarser or finer stitches.

Adjusting Thread Tension

Saving Custom Stitch Settings

Useful Machine Functions

Automatic Thread Cutting

How to set the machine for automatic thread cutting at the end of stitching.

Mirroring Stitch Patterns

Instructions for creating a horizontal mirror image of selected stitch patterns.

Presser Foot and Pivoting Adjustments

Adjusting Presser Foot Pressure

Guide to adjusting presser foot pressure for different fabric types via the settings screen.

Automatic Fabric Sensor System

Explanation of the automatic system that detects fabric thickness and adjusts pressure.

Using the Pivoting Function

How to use the pivot function to stop with the needle down for easy fabric rotation.

Free Motion Sewing Mode

Setting Up for Free Motion Sewing

Instructions for setting up and using the free motion mode for quilting and embroidery.

Free Motion Sewing Adjustments and Knee Lifter

Adjusting Free Motion Presser Foot Height

How to adjust the presser foot height in free motion mode for different fabrics.

Using the Knee Lifter

Guide to installing and using the knee lifter for hands-free presser foot control.

Stitch Setting Chart - Utility Stitches Part 1

Straight, Stretch, Stem, Basting, Zigzag Stitches

Table listing settings for straight, triple stretch, stem, basting, and zigzag stitches.

Stitch Setting Chart - Utility Stitches Part 2

Overcasting, Diamond, Side Cutter Stitches

Table listing settings for various overcasting, diamond, and side cutter stitches.

Stitch Setting Chart - Decorative Stitches Part 1

Quilting, Patchwork, Smocking, Feather Stitches

Table listing settings for decorative stitches like quilting, patchwork, smocking, and feather stitches.

Stitch Setting Chart - Decorative Stitches Part 2

Hemstitching and Honeycomb Stitches

Table listing settings for various hemstitching and honeycomb stitches.

Stitch Setting Chart - Buttonhole and Darning Stitches

Buttonhole and Darning Stitch Details

Table listing settings for different types of buttonhole and darning stitches.

Stitch Setting Chart - Special Stitches

Button Sewing, Eyelet, Sideways Stitches

Table listing settings for button sewing, eyelet, and various sideways stitches.

Preset Utility Stitches Reference

Chapter 1: Sewing Attractive Finishes

Sewing Tips and Techniques

General advice for achieving attractive sewing results, including trial sewing and fabric handling.

Basic Sewing Techniques

Changing Sewing Direction (Pivoting)

How to stop and turn the fabric at corners for smooth curve sewing.

Sewing Cylindrical Pieces

Using the free-arm feature for sewing sleeves, pant legs, and other tubular items.

Achieving Even Seam Allowances

Aligning Fabric for Seam Allowance

Methods for aligning fabric with presser foot or needle plate markings for consistent seam allowances.

Sewing Various Fabric Types

Sewing Thick Fabrics

Tips for sewing thick fabrics, including adjusting presser foot and using locking pins.

Sewing Thin Fabrics

Advice for sewing thin fabrics to prevent misalignment and ensure proper feeding.

Specialty Fabric Sewing Techniques

Sewing Stretch Fabrics

Techniques for sewing knit fabrics, including using stretch stitches and knit needles.

Sewing Leathers or Vinyl Fabrics

Recommendations for sewing sticky fabrics using non-stick or walking feet.

Sewing Hook-and-Loop Fastener Tape

Instructions for sewing hook-and-loop fastener tape, including needle choice and speed.

Chapter 2: Utility Stitches

Basic Stitching Procedures

Steps for performing fundamental stitches like basting and straight stitches.

Straight Stitch Adjustments and Needle Position

Changing Needle Position for Straight Stitches

How to adjust needle position for straight stitches to create different seam allowances.

Blind Hem Stitching Guide

Overcasting Stitch Techniques

Using Overcasting Foot 'G'

Instructions for using the overcasting foot 'G' to finish fabric edges.

Overcasting with Zigzag Foot and Side Cutter

Overcasting with Zigzag Foot 'J'

How to use the zigzag foot 'J' for overcasting stitches on fabric edges.

Using the Side Cutter Attachment

Guide to using the side cutter attachment for finishing edges while cutting fabric.

Buttonhole Stitching and Button Sewing Overview

Buttonhole Stitching Guide

Introduction to buttonhole stitches and the parts of the buttonhole foot 'A'.

Creating Buttonholes

Buttonhole Finishing and Stretch Fabric Tips

Finishing Buttonholes and Adjustments

Steps for cutting open buttonholes and adjusting stitch density/width.

Sewing Buttonholes on Stretch Fabrics

Tips for sewing buttonholes on stretch fabrics, including using gimp thread.

Button Sewing and Gimp Thread Application

Sewing Buttonholes with Gimp Thread

Instructions for using gimp thread with buttonhole stitches for decorative effects.

Sewing Buttons onto Fabric

Procedure for sewing buttons with two or four holes onto fabric.

Attaching Buttons and Shanks

Attaching a Shank to a Button

Method for sewing buttons with shanks using the button fitting foot 'M'.

Zipper Insertion Procedures

Inserting a Centered Zipper

Step-by-step guide for inserting a centered zipper into fabric panels.

Zipper Insertion Techniques

Inserting a Side Zipper

Instructions for inserting a side zipper into fabric openings like side seams or back openings.

Zipper and Piping Insertion Guide

Inserting a Centered Zipper with Piping Foot

Guide to inserting a centered zipper using the adjustable zipper/piping foot.

Zipper and Piping Sewing Methods

Inserting a Piping into Fabric

Instructions for inserting piping between fabric layers for decorative edging.

Sewing Stretch Fabrics and Elastic Tape

Stretch Stitching Techniques

How to perform stretch stitching on knit fabrics for flexibility and durability.

Attaching Elastic Tape

Techniques for attaching elastic tape to garments for proper fit and dimension.

Appliqué, Patchwork, and Quilt Stitching Overview

Appliqué Stitching Guide

Instructions for sewing appliqués using zigzag or quilting stitches.

Patchwork and Piecing Techniques

Patchwork (Crazy Quilt) Stitching

Method for creating patchwork designs by sewing fabric pieces together.

Piecing Fabric Pieces

Guide to sewing fabric pieces together with accurate seam allowances.

Piecing and Quilting with Specialized Feet

Piecing with 1/4" Quilting Foot

Using the 1/4" quilting foot for accurate seam allowances in piecing and quilting.

Quilting with Walking Foot and Free Motion Quilting

Quilting with Walking Foot

Instructions for installing and using the walking foot for quilting layers of fabric.

Free Motion Quilting with Straight Stitch Plate

Using the free motion quilting foot 'C' with a straight stitch plate for sewing.

Free Motion Quilting with Specialized Feet

Free Motion Quilting with Open Toe Foot 'O'

Using the free motion open toe foot 'O' for quilting uneven thickness fabrics.

Echo Quilting and Free Motion Quilting

Echo Quilting with Free Motion Echo Quilting Foot 'E'

Guide to creating echo quilting patterns using the specialized foot 'E'.

Satin Stitching with Sewing Speed Controller

Reinforcement Stitching Techniques

Triple Stretch Stitching

Using triple stretch stitch to reinforce sleeve holes, inseams, and pocket corners.

Bar Tack Stitching Procedure

Procedure for sewing bar tacks to reinforce stress points like pocket openings.

Reinforcement Stitching and Darning

Darning Stitch Guide

Instructions for performing darning stitches to repair fabric.

Eyelet Stitching Guide

Attaching Patches or Emblems to Garments

Decorative Stitching Overview

Fagoting Stitch Technique

How to create fagoting stitches across seams for decorative effects on blouses and clothing.

Decorative Stitching Techniques Part 1

Scallop Stitching Method

Instructions for sewing scallop stitches on edges and collars for decorative finishes.

Smocking Stitch Guide

How to create smocking stitches for decorative texture and elasticity on garments.

Decorative Stitching Techniques Part 2

Shell Tuck Stitching

Method for creating shell tuck stitches for decorative trims on thin fabrics.

Joining Stitches for Crazy Quilting

Using decorative stitches to join fabric pieces for projects like crazy quilts.

Heirloom Stitching and Drawnwork Techniques

Heirloom Stitching with Wing Needle

How to create decorative heirloom stitches using a wing needle.

Drawnwork (Example 1)

Method for creating drawnwork by pulling threads and sewing along edges.

Drawnwork Technique - Example 2

Drawnwork (Example 2)

Alternative method for creating drawnwork by sewing between frayed sections of fabric.

Chapter 1: Character / Decorative Stitches

Selecting Built-in Decorative Patterns

Guide to selecting and using the various built-in decorative and character stitches.

Selecting Stitch Patterns

Decorative Stitch Pattern Categories

Overview of decorative stitch categories: Satin, Cross, and Utility Decorative.

Character Stitch Pattern Fonts

Details on available fonts for character stitches: Gothic, Handwriting, Outline, Cyrillic, Japanese.

Character Stitching and Finishing Tips

Character Stitch Pattern Input

How to select and input character stitches using the operation panel.

Deleting a Pattern Sequence

Procedure for removing a selected pattern from the current sequence.

Sewing Attractive Finishes with Decorative Stitches

Tips for achieving attractive results with decorative stitches, including fabric/thread/needle combinations.

Basic Sewing with Decorative and Character Stitches

Combining and Repeating Decorative Patterns

Combining Multiple Patterns

Instructions for combining multiple patterns to create custom sequences.

Repeating Combined Patterns

How to set the machine to repeatedly sew a combined pattern sequence.

Pattern Selection and Adjustment

Checking the Selected Pattern

Procedure to verify the correct pattern is selected and displayed on the screen.

Changing the Pattern Size

How to adjust the size of character and decorative stitches.

Stitch Density and Step Stitch Patterns

Changing the Stitch Density

Guide to adjusting stitch density, especially for satin stitches.

Creating Step Stitch Patterns

Instructions for creating step-shaped patterns by shifting decorative stitches.

Pattern Mirroring and Step Stitch Examples

Mirroring a Pattern Image

How to mirror selected stitch patterns horizontally for creative designs.

Examples of Step Stitch Patterns

Visual examples of step stitch patterns created by shifting stitches.

Pattern Management: Saving and Returning

Returning to the Beginning of a Pattern

How to restart sewing from the beginning of a pattern after stopping.

Saving a Custom Pattern

Instructions for storing custom patterns or combined patterns for later use.

Pattern Retrieval and Realignment

Retrieving a Saved Pattern

How to access and load previously saved patterns from memory.

Realigning the Pattern

Guide to adjusting patterns for correct alignment based on fabric and sewing speed.

Chapter 2: MY CUSTOM STITCH

Designing a Stitch Pattern

Steps for sketching, marking points, and determining sewing order for custom stitches.

Entering Custom Stitch Data and Settings

Examples of Custom Stitch Designs

Chapter 1: Maintenance and Troubleshooting

Care and Maintenance Guidelines

Guidelines for routine care and maintenance to keep the machine in optimal working condition.

Machine Care and Cleaning Procedures

Oiling Restrictions and Storage Precautions

Information on why the machine should not be oiled and proper storage advice.

Cleaning Machine Surfaces and LCD Screen

Instructions for cleaning the LCD screen and exterior surfaces of the sewing machine.

Cleaning the Bobbin Race Area

Steps for cleaning the bobbin race to ensure optimal sewing performance.

Needle Plate and Bobbin Case Maintenance

Needle Plate Cover Cleaning and Removal

Procedure for removing and cleaning the needle plate cover and checking for screws.

Correct Bobbin Case Installation

Guide for correctly inserting the bobbin case, ensuring alignment marks match.

Troubleshooting Common Sewing Issues

Upper Thread Tension Issues

Troubleshooting steps for symptoms related to tight upper thread tension.

Troubleshooting Thread Tangling and Tangling

Tangled Thread on Wrong Side of Fabric

Steps to resolve thread tangling on the fabric's wrong side, often due to incorrect threading.

Troubleshooting Thread Tension Symptoms

Incorrect Thread Tension Symptoms

Identifying symptoms of incorrect thread tension, including visible bobbin thread or loose stitches.

Addressing Thread Tension Problems

Causes of Incorrect Thread Tension

Explanation of causes like incorrect threading, needle/thread choice, or tension settings.

Troubleshooting Fabric Caught in Machine

Removing Fabric Caught in Machine

Procedure for safely removing fabric that has become tangled under the needle plate.

Machine Operation Checks After Reassembly

Checking Machine Operations After Needle Plate Removal

Steps to verify correct installation of needle plate and smooth operation after adjustments.

Troubleshooting Machine Operation and Bobbin Winder

Checking Machine Operations After Reassembly

Steps to check machine function after reassembly, including needle alignment and feed dog movement.

Thread Tangled Under Bobbin Winder Seat

Troubleshooting steps for thread tangling issues related to the bobbin winding mechanism.

Troubleshooting: Getting Ready Issues

Needle Threading Problems

Solutions for common problems when threading the needle, including incorrect positioning or bent needles.

Presser Foot Lowering Issues

Troubleshooting for issues where the presser foot cannot be lowered using the lever or button.

Bobbin Winding and Threading Problems

Solutions for problems with bobbin winding, spinning, or thread tangling.

LCD Display Issues

Troubleshooting steps for issues with the LCD display, including brightness and condensation.

Troubleshooting: Sewing Operation Issues

Machine Does Not Operate

Solutions for when the machine fails to start or operate, checking buttons, shafts, and selections.

Needle Breakage Causes

Causes and remedies for needle breakage, including installation, tension, and fabric issues.

Troubleshooting: Thread Breakage and Tangling

Upper Thread Breakage

Troubleshooting steps for common causes of upper thread breakage.

Thread Tangled on Wrong Side of Fabric

Solutions for when thread tangles on the fabric's wrong side due to improper threading.

Bobbin Thread Breakage

Causes and remedies for bobbin thread breakage, including winding and tension issues.

Troubleshooting: Stitch and Feed Issues

Fabric Puckering Solutions

Solutions for fabric puckering caused by threading, tension, or presser foot issues.

Skipped Stitches Causes and Fixes

Troubleshooting steps for skipped stitches, often related to needle or fabric type.

No Stitching Occurs

Solutions for when no stitches are produced, checking needle, bobbin, and threading.

High-Pitched Sound While Sewing

Troubleshooting for unusual noises, often caused by dust or lint in the feed dogs or race.

Fabric Feed Problems

Solutions for when the fabric does not feed correctly, checking feed dogs and presser foot settings.

Troubleshooting: Fabric Feed and Needle Contact Issues

Fabric Feeds in Opposite Direction

Troubleshooting for fabric feeding in the wrong direction, possibly due to feed mechanism damage.

Needle Contacts Needle Plate

Solutions for when the needle hits the needle plate, often due to a loose clamp screw or bent needle.

Broken Needle Fallen Into Machine

Procedure for safely removing a broken needle that has fallen into the sewing machine.

Sluggish Handwheel Operation

Troubleshooting for a sluggish handwheel, often caused by tangled thread in the bobbin case.

Incorrect Stitching Resolution

Solutions for incorrectly sewn stitches, checking presser foot, tension, and thread tangles.

Troubleshooting: Thread Tension and Pattern Alignment

Incorrect Thread Tension Resolution

Troubleshooting for incorrect thread tension, covering threading, bobbin set, and needle/thread choices.

Misaligned Decorative/Character Patterns

Solutions for misaligned decorative or character stitches, often due to incorrect pattern adjustment settings.

Pattern Does Not Turn Out Correctly

Troubleshooting for patterns not appearing correctly, checking presser foot, stabilizer, and fabric feeding.

Error Messages and Solutions Part 1

Error Message 1: Width Control Setting

Explanation for the 'Width Control' setting error and how to resolve it.

Error Message 2: Twin Needle Selection

Explanation for the twin needle selection error and how to resolve it.

Error Messages and Solutions Part 2

Error Message 3: Foot Controller Conflict

Explanation for the error when the foot controller is connected and the Start/Stop button is pressed.

Error Message 12: Safety Device Activated

Explanation for the safety device activation error, possibly due to thread tangle or motor lock.

Error Message 13: Needle Plate Installation

Explanation for errors related to stitch selection or needle plate installation.

Error Message 14: F** Malfunction

Guidance for resolving F** error messages indicating a potential machine malfunction.

Machine Specifications and LCD Brightness

Operation Beep Settings

Explanation of machine beeps for operations and how to cancel them.

Adjusting LCD Brightness

Procedure for adjusting the LCD screen brightness if it is too light or too dark.

Machine Specifications Summary

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