Introduction

The Brother Stitch Sewing Machine LX3817 is an affordable and user-friendly option for beginners and hobbyists. It features 17 built-in stitches, a top drop-in bobbin, and a jam-resistant needle threader for easy setup. With its sturdy construction and versatile capabilities, the LX3817 is perfect for a wide range of sewing projects. $135.52

KNOWING YOUR SEWING MACHINE

NAMES OF MACHINE PARTS AND THEIR FUNCTIONS

The main parts

Bobbin winder
Spool pin
Hole for extra spool pin
Upper tension-control dial
Thread guide
Thread take-up lever
Thread cutter
Flat bed attachment with accessory compartment
Operation buttons
Operation panel
Handwheel
Used to manually raise and lower the needle.
Air vent
This vent allows the air surrounding the motor to circulate. Do not cover the air vent while the sewing machine is being used.
Main power and sewing light switch
Jack/socket connector
Foot controller
Foot controller jack/socket
Feed dog position lever
Presser foot lever
Handle
Carry the sewing machine by its handle when transporting the machine.

Needle and presser foot section

Buttonhole lever
Needle threader (for models equipped with the needle threader)
Presser foot holder
The presser foot is installed onto the presser foot holder.
Presser foot holder screw
Use the presser foot holder screw to hold the presser foot holder in place.
Presser foot
The presser foot applies pressure consistently on the fabric as the sewing takes place. Attach the appropriate presser foot for the selected stitching.
Feed dogs
The feed dogs feed the fabric in the sewing direction.
Quick-set bobbin (for models equipped with the quick-set bobbin)
You can start sewing without pulling up the bobbin thread.
Bobbin cover
Needle plate
The needle plate is marked with guides for sewing straight seams.
Needle bar thread guide
Needle clamp screw

ACCESSORIES

The following accessories are stored in the flatbed attachment. We have designed these accessories to help you be able to carry out most sewing tasks.

Note:(For U.S.A. only)

Foot controller: Model T
This foot controller can be used on the machine with product code 888-S33/S36. The product code is mentioned on the machine rating plate.
The screw of the presser foot holder is available through your authorized dealer. (Part code: 132730-122)

No.	Part Name	Part Code
		Americas	Others
1	Zigzag foot “J” (on machine)	XZ5134-001
2	Buttonhole foot “A”	XC2691-033
3	Overcasting foot “G”	XC3098-031
4	Monogramming foot “N”	XD0810-031
5	Zipper foot “I”	X59370-021
6	Blind stitch foot “R”	XE2650-001
7	Button fitting foot “M”	XE2137-001
8	Seam ripper	XF4967-001
9	Bobbin (4) (One is on machine.)	SA156	SFB: XA5539-151
10	Needle set	XC8834-021
11	Twin needle	131096-121
12	Ball point needle (gold colored)	XD0360-021
13	Cleaning brush	X59476-051
14	Disc-shaped screwdriver	XC1074-051
15	Extra spool pin	XG3488-001
16	Foot controller	XD0501-121 (EU area) XC8816-071 (Other areas)

accessories_brother_stitch_sewing_machine_lx3817_17.png

Optional accessories

The following are available as optional accessories to be purchased separately.

No.	Part Name	Part Code
No.	Part Name	Americas	Others
1	Walking Foot	SA140	F033N: XG6623-001
2	Quilting Foot	SA129	F005N: XC1948-052
3	1/4-Inch Quilting Foot	SA125	F001N: XC1944-052
4	Quilting guide	SA132	F016N: XC2215-052
5	Eyelet punch	XZ5051-001

optional_accessories_brother_stitch_sewing_machine_lx3817_17.png

Detailed Specifications

The Brother Stitch Sewing Machine LX3817 17 boasts several impressive features that make it stand out in the market. These include:

38 built-in utility and decorative stitches
17 one-step buttonhole styles
Adjustable sewing speed control
LED-lit work area
Free arm for easy sewing of sleeves and cuffs
Automatic needle threader
Drop-in bobbin system
7-point feed dogs for smooth fabric feeding
Hardcover storage case
Built-in storage compartment

Operation buttons

The operation buttons differ depending on the sewing machine model.

Presser foot lever
Raise and lower the presser foot.
Reverse/reinforcement stitch button
Press the reverse/reinforcement stitch button to sew reverse stitches. Reverse stitches are sewn by keeping the button pressed down to sew in the opposite direction. For details, refer to “Sewing reinforcement stitches” (page 24).
Buttons provided on some models
Start/stop button
Press the start/stop button to start or stop sewing. The machine sews at a slow speed at the beginning of sewing while the button is depressed. When sewing is stopped, the needle is lowered in the fabric. For details, refer to “Starting to sew” (page 23).
Needle position button
Press the needle position button to raise or lower the needle. Pressing the button twice sews one stitch.
Sewing speed controller
Slide this controller to adjust the sewing speed.

Description

The Brother Stitch Sewing Machine LX3817 17 is a versatile and easy-to-use sewing machine that is perfect for a wide range of sewing projects. With 38 built-in stitches, you can choose the perfect stitch for your project, whether it's quilting, home décor, or fashion sewing. The machine's adjustable sewing speed control allows you to sew at your own pace, making it perfect for beginners. The LED-lit work area ensures that you can see your project clearly, even in low light conditions. The automatic needle threader and drop-in bobbin system make threading the machine quick and easy, while the 7-point feed dogs ensure smooth fabric feeding for even stitching.

USING YOUR SEWING MACHINE

Power supply precautions

Be sure to observe the following precautions concerning the power supply.

WARNING

Use only regular household electricity for the power source. Using other power sources may result in fire, electric shock, or damage to the machine.
Make sure that the plugs on the power cord are firmly inserted into the electrical outlet and the power supply jack on the machine. Otherwise, a fire or electric shock may result.
Do not insert the plug on the power cord into an electrical outlet that is in poor condition.
Turn off the main power and remove the plug in the following circumstances:
- When you are away from the machine
- After using the machine
- When the power fails during use
- When the machine does not operate correctly due to a bad connection or a disconnection
- During electrical storms

CAUTION

Use only the power cord included with this machine.
Do not use extension cords or multi-plug adapters with many other appliances plugged in to them. Fire or electric shock may result.
Do not touch the plug with wet hands. Electric shock may result.
When unplugging the machine, always turn off the main power first. Always grasp the plug to remove it from the outlet. Pulling on the cord may damage the cord, or lead to fire or electric shock.
Do not allow the power cord to be cut, damaged, modified, forcefully bent, pulled, twisted, or bundled. Do not place heavy objects on the cord.
Do not subject the cord to heat. These things may damage the cord and cause fire or electric shock. If the cord or plug is damaged, take the machine to your authorized dealer for repairs before continuing use. Unplug the power cord if the machine is not to be used for a long period of time. Otherwise a fire may result.

Power supply

Insert the plug into a wall outlet.
Set the main power switch to “I”.
The sewing lamp comes on when the machine is turned on.
To turn off the machine, set the main power switch to “0”.
The sewing lamp goes off when the machine is turned off.

Note

If a power outage occurs while the sewing machine is being operated, turn off the sewing machine and unplug the power supply cord. When restarting the sewing machine, follow the necessary procedure to correctly operate the machine. (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. Do not modify the plug in any way.

Foot controller

Insert the foot controller plug into its jack/socket.
CAUTION: When connecting the foot controller, be sure to turn off the sewing machine in order to prevent the machine from accidentally being started.
Depress the foot controller to start sewing, and adjust the sewing speed by changing the pressing force.
You should make sure that nothing is placed on the foot controller when the machine is not in use.
CAUTION: Do not allow pieces of cloth and dust to build up on the foot controller. Doing so could cause a fire or an electric shock.
Note: When the foot controller is plugged in, the start/stop button cannot be used to start or stop sewing (only for models equipped with the start/stop button).

Sewing speed controller (for models equipped with the start/stop button)

Slide the sewing speed controller to select the desired sewing speed.

foot_controller_of_the_brother_stitch_sewing_machine_lx3817_17.png

The speed set using the sewing speed controller is the foot controller’s maximum sewing speed.

Changing the needle stop position

Normally, the sewing machine is set to leave the needle in the fabric when sewing is stopped. Instead, the machine can be set to leave the needle raised when sewing is stopped.

Turn off the sewing machine.
Hold down the “” side of (1) on the left and turn on the sewing machine.
After turning on the sewing machine, release the “” side of (1).
The needle stop position changes to the raised position.

Memo: Perform the same operation to change the needle stop position to the lowered position.

Setup Guide

Setting up the Brother Stitch Sewing Machine LX3817 17 is simple and straightforward. Here's a step-by-step guide:

Plug in the machine and turn it on.
Install the presser foot and needle.
Load the bobbin into the drop-in bobbin system.
Thread the machine using the automatic needle threader.
Choose your desired stitch and adjust the stitch length and width as needed.
Set the sewing speed control and start sewing.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

Please read these safety instructions before attempting to use the machine.

DANGER

To reduce the risk of electric shock:

Always unplug the machine from the electrical outlet immediately after using, when cleaning, when making any user servicing adjustments mentioned in this manual, or if you are leaving the machine unattended.
WARNING: To reduce the risk of burns, fire, electric shock, or injury to persons.
Always unplug the machine from the electrical outlet when making any adjustments mentioned in the instruction manual:
- To unplug the machine, switch the machine to the symbol “O” position to turn it off, then grasp the plug and pull it out of the electrical outlet. Do not pull on the cord
- Plug the machine directly into the electrical outlet. Do not use an extension cord.
- Always unplug your machine if the power is cut.
Electrical Hazards:
- This machine should be connected to an AC power source within the range indicated on the rating label. Do not connect it to a DC power source or inverter. If you are not sure what kind of power source you have, contact a qualified electrician.
- This machine is approved for use in the country of purchase only.
Never operate this machine if it has a damaged cord or plug, if it is not working properly, if it has been dropped or damaged, or water is spilled on the unit. Return the machine to the nearest authorized dealer or service center for examination, repair, electrical or mechanical adjustment.
- While the machine is stored or in use if you notice anything unusual, such as an odor, heat, discoloration or deformation, stop using the machine and immediately unplug the power cord.
- When transporting the machine, be sure to carry it by its handle. Lifting the machine by any other part may damage the machine or result in the machine falling, which could cause injuries.
- When lifting the machine, be careful not to make any sudden or careless movements, otherwise you may injure your back or knees.
Always keep your work area clear:
- Never operate the machine with any air openings blocked. Keep ventilation openings of the machine and foot control free from the build up of lint, dust, and loose cloth.
- Do not store objects on the foot controller.
- Do not use extension cords. Plug the machine directly into the electrical outlet.
- Never drop or insert any object into any opening.
- Do not operate where aerosol (spray) products are being used or where oxygen is being administered.
- Do not use the machine near a heat source, such as a stove or iron; otherwise, the machine, power cord or garment being sewn may ignite, resulting in fire or an electric shock.
- Do not place this machine on an unstable surface, such as an unsteady or slanted table, otherwise the machine may fall, resulting in injuries.
Special care is required when sewing:
- Always pay close attention to the needle. Do not use bent or damaged needles.
- Keep fingers away from all moving parts. Special care is required around the machine needle.
- Switch the machine to the symbol “O” position to turn it off when making any adjustments in the needle area.
- Do not use a damaged or incorrect needle plate, as it could cause the needle to break.
- Do not push or pull the fabric when sewing, and follow careful instruction when freehand stitching so that you do not deflect the needle and cause it to break.
This machine is not a toy:
- Your close attention is necessary when the machine is used by or near children.
- The plastic bag that this machine was supplied in should be kept out of the reach of children or disposed of. Never allow children to play with the bag due to the danger of suffocation.
- Do not use outdoors.
For a longer service life:
- When storing this machine, avoid direct sunlight and high humidity locations. Do not use or store the machine near a space heater, iron, halogen lamp, 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.
- Always consult the operation manual when replacing or installing any assemblies, the presser feet, needle, or other parts to assure correct installation.
For repair or adjustment:
- If the Light unit (light-emitting diode) is damaged, it must be replaced by authorized dealer.
- In the event 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 local authorized Brother dealer.

Use this machine only for its intended use as de-scribed in this manual. Use accessories recommended by the manufac-turer as contained in this manual. The contents of this manual and specifications of this product are subject to change without no-tice.

MAINTENANCE

Simple sewing machine maintenance operations are described below.

Restrictions on oiling

In order to prevent damaging this machine, it must not be oiled by the user. This machine was manufactured with the necessary amount of oil applied to ensure correct operation, making periodic oiling unnecessary. If problems occur, such as difficulty turning the handwheel or an unusual noise, immediately stop using the machine, and contact your authorized dealer or the nearest authorized service center.

Precautions on storing the machine

Do not store the machine in any of the locations described below, otherwise damage to the machine may result, for example, rust caused by condensation.

Exposed to extremely high temperatures
Exposed to extremely low temperatures
Exposed to extreme temperature changes
Exposed to high humidity or steam
Near a flame, heater or air conditioner
Outdoors or exposed to direct sunlight
Exposed to extremely dusty or oily environments Note

In order to extend the life of this machine, periodically turn it on and use it. Storing this machine for an extended period of time without using it may reduce its efficiency.

Cleaning the machine surface
If the surface of the machine is dirty, lightly soak a cloth in neutral detergent, squeeze it out firmly, and then wipe the surface of the machine. After cleaning it once with a wet cloth, wipe it again with a dry cloth.

CAUTION: Unplug the power supply cord before cleaning the machine, otherwise injuries or an electric shock may occur.

Cleaning the bobbin case

Sewing performance will suffer if dust collects in the bobbin case; therefore, it should be cleaned periodically.

CAUTION: Make sure you unplug the machine before you clean it. Otherwise, you may get an electric shock or be injured.

Switch the machine off and unplug it.
Raise the needle and the presser foot.
Loosen the presser-foot screw and the needle clamp screw to remove the presser-foot holder and the needle.
Grasp both sides of the needle plate cover, and then slide it toward you to remove the needle plate cover.
Remove the bobbin case.
Grasp the bobbin case, and then pull it out.
Use a cleaning brush or a vacuum cleaner to remove any dust from the race and its surrounding area.
Insert the bobbin case so that the  mark on the bobbin case aligns with the  mark on machine as shown below.
Make sure that the indicated points are aligned before installing the bobbin case.
CAUTION
- Never use a bobbin case that is scratched, otherwise the upper thread may become tangled, the needle may break or sewing performance may suffer. For a new bobbin case (part code: XE7560-001), contact your nearest authorized service center.
- Make sure that you fit the bobbin case properly, otherwise the needle may break.
Put the tabs on the needle plate cover into the needle plate, and then slide the cover back on.

Brother Stitch Sewing Machine LX3817 17 TROUBLESHOOTING

If the machine stops working properly, check the following possible problems.
If the problem it still there, contact your retailer or the nearest authorised service center.

Symptom	Possible cause	How to put it right
The sewing machine does not work.	The machine is not plugged in.	Plug the machine in.
	The main power switchis turned off.	Turn on the mainpower switch.
	The bobbin windershaft is pushedto the right.	Move the bobbinwinder shaft to the left.
	You have notused the footcontrol- ler properly.	Use the foot controller properly.
The needle breaks.	The needle is not fitted properly.	Fit the needle properly.
	The needle clamp screw is loose.	Use the disc-shaped screwdriver to firmly tighten the screw.
	The needle is bentor blunt.	Replace the needle.
	You have not used theright combi- nation of fabric, thread and needle.	Choose a threadand needle thatare appropriate for the type of fabric.
	The presser footyou are usingis not appropriate for the type of stitch that you want to sew.	Attach the presserfoot that is correct for the type of stitch that you want to sew.
	The upper thread tensionis too tight.	Loosen the upper thread tension.
	You are pulling the fabric too much.	Lightly guide the fabric.
	The area aroundthe hole in the nee- dle plate is scratched.	Replace the needleplate. Contact your retailer or the nearest authorized service center.
	The area aroundthe hole in the presser foot is scratched.	Replace the presser foot. Contact your retailer or the nearest authorized service center.
	The bobbin case is scratched.	Replace the bobbincase. Contact your retailer or the nearest authorized service center.
	You have not used a bobbin that has been designed for this machine.	Incorrect bobbins will not work properly. Only use a bobbin thathas been designed for this machine.
The upper thread breaks.	You have not threaded the upper thread properly. (for example, you have not fitted thespool properly, or thethread has comeout of theguide above the needle.)	Correct the upperthreading.
	There are knotsor tangles in the thread.	Remove any knots or tangles.
	The needle is not appropriate for the thread you are using.	Choose a needlethat is appropriate for the type of stitch.
	The upper thread tensionis too tight.	Loosen the upper thread tension.
	The thread is tangled, for example, in the bobbin case.	Remove the tangle thread. If the thread is tangled in the bobbin case, clean the bobbin case.
	The needle is bentor blunt.	Replace the needle.

The upper thread breaks.	You have notinserted the needle properly.	Insert the needle properly.
	The area aroundthe hole in the nee- dle plate is scratched.	Replace the needle plate. Contact yourretailer or the nearest authorised service center.
	The area aroundthe hole in the presser foot is scratched.	Replace the presserfoot. Contact yourretailer or the nearest authorised service center.
	The bobbin caseis scratched, or has a burr on it.	Replace the bobbincase. Contact yourretailer or the nearest authorised service center.
	You have not used a bobbin thathas been designed for this machine.	Incorrect bobbins will not work properly. Only use a bobbin thathas been designed for this machine.
The lower thread is tangled or breaks.	You have notwound the bobbin thread properly.	Wind the bobbin threadproperly.
	The bobbin is scratched or does not turn smoothly.	Replace the bobbin.
	The thread is tangled.	Remove the tangled thread and clean the bobbin case.
	You have not used a bobbin thathas been designed for this machine.	Incorrect bobbins will not work properly. Only use a bobbin thathas been designed for this machine.
	Bobbin is set incorrectly.	Reset the bobbin thread correctly.
The thread ten- sion is incorrect.	You have notthreaded the upper thread properly.	Correct the upperthreading.
	You have notwound the bobbin thread properly.	Wind the bobbin threadproperly.
	You have not threaded the right combination of thread and needle for the fabric you are using.	Choose a threadand needle thatare appropriate for the type of fabric.
	You have notattached the presser- foot holder properly.	Attach the presser-foot holder prop- erly.
	The thread tension is incorrect.	Adjust the tension of the upper thread.
	You have not used a bobbin thathas been designed for this machine.	Incorrect bobbins will not work properly. Onlyuse a bobbinthat has been designed for this machine.
	Bobbin is set incorrectly.	Reset the bobbin thread correctly.
The fabricis wrinkled.	You have not threaded the upper threadproperly or fittedthe bobbin properly.	Thread the upperthread and wind the bobbin thread properly.
	You have not fitted the spool prop- erly.	Fit the spool properly.
	You have not used the right combination of fabric, thread and needle.	Choose a threadand needle thatare appropriate for the type of fabric.
	The needle is bentor blunt.	Replace the needle.
	If you are sewing thin fabric, the stitch is too thick.	Sew with stabiliser material under the fabric.
	The thread tension is incorrect.	Adjust the tension of the upper thread.

Stitches are skipped.	You have not threaded the upper thread properly.	Correct the upperthreading.
	You have not used theright combi- nation of fabric, thread and needle.	Choose a threadand needle thatare appropriate for the type of fabric.
	The needle is bentor blunt.	Replace the needle.
	You have not inserted theneedle properly.	Insert the needle properly.
	Dust has accumulated under the needle plate or in the bobbin case.	Remove the needleplate cover and clean the plate and the bobbincase.
There is a high- pitched noise while sewing.	Dust has builtup in the feed dogs or in the bobbin case.	Clean the bobbin case.
	You have not threaded the upper thread properly.	Correct the upperthreading.
	The bobbincase is scratched.	Replace the bobbincase. Contact your retailer or the nearest authorized service center.
	You have not used bobbinthat has been designed for this machine.	Incorrect bobbins will not work properly. Only use a bobbin thathas been designed for this machine.
The needle threader can not be used.	You have not moved the needle holder to its highest position.	Raise the needleeither by turning the handwheel toward you (counterclockwise) so that the mark on the wheel points up or by pressing (needle position button) once or twice.
The needle threader can not be used.	You have not inserted theneedle properly.	Insert the needle properly.
The stitchis not sewn correctly.	The presser foot that you are using is not correct for the type of stitch.	Attach the presserfoot that is correct for the type of stitch that you want to sew.
	The thread tension is incorrect.	Adjust the tension of the upper thread.
	The thread is tangled, for example, in the bobbin case.	Remove the tangle thread. If the thread is tangled in the bobbin case, clean the bobbin case.
The fabricdoes not feed.	The feed dogs are lowered.	Slide the feed dog position lever to .
	The stitch is too fine.	Lengthen the stitch length.
	You have not used theright combi- nation of fabric, thread and needle.	Choose a threadand needle thatare appropriate for the type of fabric.
	The thread is tangled, for example, in the bobbin case.	Remove the tangle thread. If the thread is tangled in the bobbin case, clean the bobbin case.
The sewing light bulb does not come on.	The sewinglamp is damaged.	Contact your retailer or the nearest authorized service center.

ERROR MESSAGES

Error Message	Probable Cause	Solution
E1	The footcontroller was pressed (or the start/stop but- ton was pressed if the foot controller is not con- nected) and the reverse/reinforcement stitch button was pressed while the presser foot is raised.	Lower the presser foot lever before continuing the opera- tion.
E2	A stitch otherthan the buttonhole or bar tackstitch was selected andthe foot controller was pressed (or the start/stop button waspressed if thefoot controller is not connected) while the buttonhole lever is low- ered.	Raise the buttonhole lever before continuing the opera- tion.
E3	The buttonhole or bar tack stitch was selected and the foot controller was pressed (or the start/stop but- ton was pressed if the foot controller is not con- nected) while the buttonhole lever is raised.	Lower the buttonhole lever before continuing the opera- tion.
E4	The reverse/reinforcement stitch button or needle position button was pressed while the bobbin winder shaft is moved to the right.	Move the bobbin winder shaft to theleft before con- tinuing the operation.
E5	The start/stop buttonwas pressed whilethe foot con- troller was connected.	Disconnect the foot control- ler, and then press the start/ stop button. Otherwise, operate the machine by using the foot controller.
E6	The motor lockedup because the thread is tangled.	Remove the tangled thread before continuing the opera- tion.

If an operation is performed incorrectly before the sewing machine is set up, an error message appears on the operation panel. Follow the instructions indicated in the table.
If you press the stitch selection key or do the operation correctly while the error message is displayed, the message disappears.

NOTE: If error message “F1” through “F8” appears in the LCD while the sewing machine is being used, the machine may be malfunctioning. Contact your nearest authorized service center.

Operation beep (for models equipped with the operation beep)

Each time a key is pressed you will hear one beep. If a non-functioning key is pressed or an incorrect operation is performed you will hear two or four beeps (only for models equipped with the operation beep).

If a key is pressed (correct operation)
One beep sounds.
If an incorrect operation is performed or a non-functioning key is pressed
Two or four beeps sound.
If the machine locks up, for example, because the thread is tangled
The sewing machine beeps for four seconds and the machine automatically stops. Be sure to check for the cause of the error, and correct it before continuing to sew.

Pros & Cons

Pros

Versatile with 38 built-in stitches
Adjustable sewing speed control
LED-lit work area
Automatic needle threader
Affordable price range

Cons

May be too basic for some experienced sewers
Some users may find the machine somewhat noisy

Customer Reviews

Customers have praised the Brother Stitch Sewing Machine LX3817 17 for its ease of use and versatility. Many have noted that the machine is perfect for beginners, while others have appreciated its affordability and high-quality construction. However, some users have noted that the machine can be somewhat noisy, and that it may not be suitable for very advanced sewing projects.

Most Common Complaints

The most common complaint about the Brother Stitch Sewing Machine LX3817 17 is that the machine can be somewhat noisy. Some users have also noted that the machine may not be suitable for very advanced sewing projects. However, these complaints are relatively rare, and the majority of users have praised the machine for its high-quality construction and versatility.

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