Brother MW-145MFi Manual

The Brother MW-145MFi is a professional-grade multi-function sewing and embroidery machine designed for home and small business use. It features a large embroidery area, built-in embroidery designs, USB connectivity for custom designs, automatic needle threading, LCD touchscreen display, and a wide range of built-in stitches. Powered by 120V AC, 60Hz. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Connecting Devices 7. Embroidery & Sewing Operations 8. Maintenance Features 9. Care & Cleaning 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Large embroidery hoop, LCD touchscreen, USB port, Automatic needle threader, Bobbin winding system, Built-in LED work light.

Feature	Description
Embroidery Area	5" x 7" maximum embroidery field
Built-in Designs	Over 200 embroidery designs and fonts
USB Port	For importing custom embroidery designs
LCD Touchscreen	3.7-inch color display for design selection and editing
Automatic Needle Threader	One-touch needle threading system
Built-in Stitches	Over 150 sewing stitches including utility, decorative, and quilting
Bobbin System	Quick-set drop-in bobbin with clear cover
LED Work Light	Bright LED illumination of sewing area
Speed Control	Adjustable sewing speed up to 850 stitches per minute
Memory Function	Saves frequently used settings and designs

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable, level surface.

Remove all packaging materials and protective covers.
Attach the extension table to the free arm for larger projects.
Install the foot controller: Plug into the designated port on the machine.
Connect the power cord to the machine and then to a wall outlet.
Install the embroidery unit: Align and slide into position until it clicks.

WARNING! Machine is heavy; lift with care using handles. Ensure all connections are secure before powering on.

First-Time Setup

Power on machine; follow on-screen prompts.

Thread the machine: Follow the numbered threading path on the machine.
Wind the bobbin: Place thread on spool pin and follow bobbin winding instructions.
Insert bobbin: Place bobbin in case with thread unwinding counterclockwise.
Select language: In SETTINGS menu, choose preferred language (default: ENGLISH).
Calibrate embroidery unit: Follow on-screen instructions for first-time calibration.

CAUTION! Keep fingers away from moving parts during threading and setup.

Specifications

Machine Type: Computerized sewing and embroidery machine.
Embroidery Area: 5" x 7" (130mm x 180mm).
Stitches: 150+ built-in stitches, 10 buttonhole styles.
Embroidery Designs: 200+ built-in designs, 5 fonts.
Display: 3.7-inch color LCD touchscreen.
Connectivity: USB port for design import.
Maximum Speed: 850 stitches per minute.
Needle Positions: Adjustable left/right position.
Power Source: 120V AC, 60Hz.
Dimensions: 18.5" W x 11.8" H x 7.9" D.
Weight: 24.2 lbs (11 kg).

Controls and Settings

Access functions via touchscreen or physical buttons. Front Panel: POWER, START/STOP, NEEDLE UP/DOWN, REVERSE, SPEED CONTROL SLIDER.

Touchscreen Interface: Design selection, editing, stitch settings, embroidery functions, file management.

Stitch Settings: Length, width, tension, mirror image, twin needle. Embroidery: Design editing, resizing, rotating, combining designs. System: Language, sound volume, screen brightness, calibration, default settings. Memory: Save/recall custom settings and edited designs.

Connecting Devices

USB: For design transfer from computer. Embroidery Unit: Attaches to free arm.

Turn off machine before connecting devices.
USB connection: Insert USB flash drive with designs in .pes format.
Computer connection: Use Brother software for direct design transfer.
Select source via touchscreen (Built-in, USB, Computer).

Tip: Format USB drive to FAT32 for best compatibility. Backup designs regularly.

Embroidery & Sewing Operations

Supports embroidery and sewing on various fabrics.

Prepare fabric: Hoop fabric with stabilizer in embroidery hoop.
Select design: Choose from built-in, USB, or computer designs.
Edit design: Resize, rotate, or combine designs as needed.
Thread colors: Follow on-screen prompts for color changes.
Start embroidery: Press START button; machine will stitch automatically.
Sewing operations: Select stitch, adjust settings, begin sewing.
Buttonholes: Automatic buttonhole feature with sensor.
Monogramming: Use built-in fonts for lettering.

WARNING! Never leave machine unattended while in operation. Keep hands away from moving needle and hoop.

Maintenance Features

Automatic Maintenance Reminders: Screen alerts for cleaning and oiling. Needle Position Memory: Remembers last needle position. Thread Sensor: Detects thread breaks and alerts user. Bobbin Thread Monitor: Shows remaining bobbin thread amount.

Care & Cleaning

Unplug before cleaning. Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance.

Clean lint from bobbin area after every project.
Oil moving parts as indicated in maintenance schedule.
Wipe exterior with soft, dry cloth.
Clean touchscreen with microfiber cloth only.
Store in dust cover when not in use.

CAUTION! Use only Brother-recommended oil. Do not use compressed air to clean lint.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with interference limits for residential use. Copyright © 2023 Brother Industries, Ltd.; all rights reserved. For support, visit www.brother-usa.com or contact 1-877-467-4289. This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the condition that this device does not cause harmful interference.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Machine won't power on	Power connection	Check power cord connections; ensure outlet is working.
Needle breaks	Incorrect needle/thread	Use correct needle for fabric; ensure proper threading.
Poor stitch quality	Tension/threading	Re-thread machine; adjust tension; clean lint from bobbin area.
Embroidery design errors	Hooping/stabilizer	Re-hoop fabric with proper stabilizer; check design format.
Touchscreen unresponsive	Calibration needed	Recalibrate touchscreen in settings menu; restart machine.
USB designs not loading	Format/compatibility	Format USB to FAT32; ensure designs are in .pes format.
Thread bunching underneath	Bobbin threading	Re-thread bobbin ensuring correct direction; clean bobbin area.

Reset: Settings > System > Factory Reset if available (backup designs first).

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