Sewing is one of the most useful and entertaining hobbies, and Brother JX2517 sewing machine is the perfect companion for a beginner. Even if you have never tried this art of creativity, you can easily and quickly learn to set up your Brother JX2517 with the following simple guidelines.
1. Unpack and Position the Machine
The first step to setting up your Brother JX2517 is to unpack and assemble the parts. The box should contain all the necessary pieces, such as the foot pedal, power cord and the instruction manual.
The machine should be placed in an environment ideally away from extreme temperatures and direct sunlight. If possible, find a designated area with an adjustable table or counter space so that it is easy to adjust and use. Do not forget to check if the area is level and keep the flooring of this area clean and dry.
2. Attach the Power Cord and Pedal
Next, plug the power cord into a wall socket and turn on the switch at the back of the machine. The Brother JX2517 has a built-in safety switch which will automatically turn off the machine if not used over a period of 20 minutes. The foot pedal should be connected to the power cord and placed near the machine. It is important to plug the pedal first before switching on the machine.
3. Thread the Sewing Machine
Threading the sewing machine can be a bit tricky, but it is manageable with the right instructions. Each Brother JX2517 comes with an instruction manual, which has detailed instructions for threading the machine. As a rule of thumb, start by connecting the upper thread onto the spool pin, then wrap it around the tension disk before threading it through the take-up lever. Loosen the presser foot, thread the needle and pull the upper thread. After tightening the presser foot, pull the upper thread until the bobbin thread can be seen on the upper side. Lastly, pull both threads towards the back of the machine for a few stitches before your sewing project can begin.
4. Choose the Correct Presser Foot
The Brother JX2517 comes with a variety of presser feet and accessories, including a general-purpose foot, zipper foot, and a buttonhole foot. It is essential to select the correct one before starting a project. These attachments vary in shape, size and installation process, so it is important to read and understand the instructions provided in the manual.
Generally, the general-purpose presser foot is suitable for most everyday sewing tasks such as sewing hems and seams. This can, however, be swapped out with a zigzag foot, a more suitable option for stretch fabrics or fabrics with complex patterns. As for larger projects, the buttonhole foot is an ideal option, allowing for a consistent and accurate execution.
5. Adjust the Settings for the Desired Stitch
Each Brother JX2517 model has an easy-to-use selection knob for selecting the desired stitch. Depending on the model, stitches can range from straight stitches, zigzag to blanket stitches, allowing for long-lasting and professional results. Therefore, read the instructions and select the proper settings for the stitch before starting each project.
Second in importance next to the stitch, is the exact width of the selected stitch. Fortunately, Brother JX2517 models come with a stitch width level, which can be easily adjusted with a simple turn of a dial.
6. Clean and Oil the Machine
The Brother JX2517 also comes with a built-in lint catcher, which collects thread debris during sewing projects. This can periodically be removed and cleaned with a soft brush. Additionally, it is essential to oil the machine regularly to ensure smooth operation and a user-friendly experience.
One way to do so is to put several drops of oil behind the needle and the feed dog moving parts. This can be accessed by lifting up the presser foot and unscrewing the needle plate after taking out the bobbin case. Even if this is not a frequent practice, it is highly recommended to oil the machine at least every six months to keep it running smoothly.
7. Protective Cover and Maintenance
Once you are done sewing, it is advisable to wrap the machine and store it in a protective case and in a safe place. This is especially important if you need to take the machine on the go. Additionally, it is best practice to service the Brother JX2517 every year to ensure optimal functioning and longevity. During maintenance, professional technicians can lubricate moving parts, clean lint collection points, and perform any necessary repairs.
8. Get Sewing
Now that your Brother JX2517 is properly set up and serviced, you can start sewing! If a beginner, it is recommended to start with simple projects such as clothing alterations and hemming. This is a great opportunity to learn and get familiar with the buttons on the machine after familiarizing yourself with the instruction manual. Rectangles, triangles and other simple shapes are an excellent starting point and the best way to develop sewing skills.
9. Learning from Others
For those who love to learn from others, there are plenty of tutorials and classes offered in most cities. Joining a sewing class or an online course is an ideal way for novices to learn the basic techniques and tips from experienced sewers. This can prove invaluable when tackling more complex projects.
10. Have Fun and Let Your Creative Flair Shine
Last but not least, remember that sewing is fun! Let your creativity take the lead and do not be afraid to explore the vast possibilities of this wonderful activity. With the Brother JX2517, the possibilities are endless. Let your imagination run free and be sure to enjoy the journey!
Further Expansions
1. Supplies Necessary
It is important to purchase the proper supplies before using the Brother JX2517. Some basic items necessary for sewing projects are scissors, thread, bobbins and needles. As projects become more advanced, specialty items such as zips, buttons, batting and more can be added to your sewing kit. Worsted weight thread is suitable for most everyday projects and it is important to choose a needle size that corresponds with the thickness of the fabric.
Selecting the right type of fabric can also make a world of difference in any project. Cotton is the best option for ranging sewing projects. It is strong, durable and can be easily manipulated for a variety of projects. Linen, velvet and silk fabrics, on the other hand, require special handling and care due to their delicate texture and sheen.
2. Troubleshooting
Occasionally, the machine might give trouble when no thread is coming off or when the needle is not moving. Before calling for help, it is recommended to use the manual and get familiar with the troubleshooting section. A few common issues can be solved himself if the user is knowledgeable about the sewing machine’s parts and functions.
For example, if the machine is not stitching, it could be due to the bobbin. If this is the case, the bobbin should be removed and the thread should be checked to make sure it is properly engaged. Additionally, always refer to the manual to ensure the right settings are enabled.
3. Basic Safety Precautions
Many Brother JX2517 models come with cap and needle guards, which are designed to prevent needle injuries while sewing. It is important to always follow the gadget’s safety guidelines to avoid any serious accidents. Other safety measures including never touching the machine needle, unplugging the device when not in use and covering the feed dogs with a protective cover.
It is also important to keep children away from the sewing tools, needles and thread. Even if children are interested in learning to sew, it is best to start slowly with simple sewing projects before progressing to more complex ones.
4. Practising with Low Cost Materials
To practice and acquire confidence in sewer, it is best to start with low cost materials. Old clothes are an excellent starting point, as they quite often work well with simple hemming, mending, and altering projects. This is a cheaper and more sustainable alternative to purchasing expensive fabric.
Happy fabric is another great choice: it is easy to find, cheap, and easy to sew. Happy fabric often comes in cotton colors and is available in pre-cut quilt squares, making it perfect for practicing stitching, sew lines and perfecting basic septic techniques.
