Brother Innovis 4500 D Manual

							Getting ReadySewing Basics Utility Stitches Character/
Decorative Stitches
Embroidery
Embroidery Edit
My Custom Stitch Appendix
Computerized Sewing and Embroidery Machine
Operation Manual
Please visit us at  http://solutions.brother.com when you can get product  support and 
answers to frequently asked questions (FAQs). 
						

							i
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
When using this machine, basic safety precautions should always be taken, including the following:
Read all instructions before using.
DANGER -To reduce the risk of electric shock:
1. The machine should never be left unattended while plugged in. Always unplug the machine from the electrical  outlet immediately after using and before cleaning.
WARNING - To reduce the risk of burns, fire, electric shock, or injury to persons:
1. Do not allow this machine to be used as a toy. Close attention is necessary when the machine is used by or  near children.
2. Use this machine only for its intended use as described in this manual. Use only accessories recommended by  the manufacturer as contained in this manual.
3. 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 dropped into water. Return the machine to the nearest authorized dealer or service center for 
examination, repair, electrical or mechanical adjustment.
4. Never operate the machine with any air openings blocked. Keep ventilation openings of the machine and foot  control free from the accumulation of lint, dust, and loose cloth.
5. Never drop or insert any object into any opening.
6. Do not use outdoors.
7. Do not operate where aerosol (spray) products are being used or where oxygen is being administered.
8. To disconnect, turn the main switch to the symbol “ ” position which represents off, then remove plug from  outlet.
9. Do not unplug by pulling on cord. To unplug, grasp the plug, not the cord.
10. Keep fingers away from all moving parts. Special care is required around the machine needle.
11. Always use the proper needle plate. The wrong plate can cause the needle to break.
12. Do not use bent needles.
13. Do not pull or push fabric while stitching. It may deflect the needle causing it to break.
14. Switch the machine to the symbol “ ” position when making any adjustments in the needle area.
15. Always unplug the machine from the electrical outlet when removing covers, lubricating, or when making any  other user servicing adjustments mentioned in the instruction manual.
16. This sewing machine is not intended for use by young children or infirm persons without supervision.
17. Young children should be supervised to ensure that they do not play with this machine.
18. If the LED light unit (light-emitting diode) is damaged, it must be replaced by authorized dealer.
19. Hold the foot controller plug when rewinding into cord reel. Do not allow the plug to whip when rewinding.
20. When lifting the sewing machine, be careful not to make any sudden or careless movements, otherwise you  may injure your back or knees.
21. When transporting the sewing machine, be sure to carry it by its handle. Lifting the sewing machine by any  other part may damage the machine or result in the machine falling, which could cause injuries.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
This machine is intended for household use. 
						

							ii
This appliance is not intended for use by persons (including children) with reduced physical, sensory or
mental capabilities, or lack of experience and knowledge, unless they have been given supervision or
instruction concerning use of the appliance by a person responsible for their safety. Children should be
supervised to ensure that they do not play with the appliance.
FOR USERS IN THE UK, EIRE, MALTA AND CYPRUS ONLY
IMPORTANT
• In the event of replacing the plug fuse, use a fuse approved by ASTA to BS 1362, i.e. carrying the  mark, rating as marked on plug.
 Always replace the fuse cover. Never use plugs with the fuse cover omitted.
 If the available electrical outlet is not suitable for the plug supplied with this equipment, you should  contact your authorized dealer to obtain the correct lead. 
						

							iii
Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Declaration of Conformity (For USA Only)
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this 
device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including 
interference that may cause undesired operation.
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 
of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a 
residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed 
and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, 
there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause 
harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, 
the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:
 Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
 Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
 Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is  connected.
 Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
 The enclosed interface cable should be used in order to ensure compliance with the limits for a Class  B digital device.
 Changes or modifications not expressly approved by Brother Industries, Ltd. could void the users  authority to operate the equipment.
Responsible Party: Brother International Corporation
100 Somerset Corporate Boulevard
Bridgewater, NJ 08807-0911 USA
TEL : (908) 704-1700
declares that the product
Product Name:
Model Number: Brother Sewing Machine
NV4500D 
						

							iv
CONGRATULATIONS ON CHOOSING OUR MACHINE
Your machine is the most advanced computerized household embroidery and sewing machine. To fully enjoy all 
the features incorporated, we suggest that you study the manual.
PLEASE READ BEFORE USING THIS MACHINE
For safe operation
1. Be sure to keep your eye on the needle while sewing. Do not touch the handwheel, thread take-up, needle, or  other moving parts.
2. 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.
3. Do not store anything on the foot controller.
4. Plug the machine directly into the wall. Do not use extension cords.
5. Do not place or store the machine near heaters or other hot appliances, in any location exposed to extremely  high or low temperatures, high humidity or dusty locations. Doing so could cause the machine to malfunction.
6. Never operate the 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 retailer or service 
center for examination, repair, electrical or mechanical adjustment.
7. The sewing machine plastic bag should be kept out of the reach of children or disposed of.  Never allow  children to play with plastic bags due to the danger of suffocation.
8. Do not place this sewing machine on an unstable surface, such as an unsteady or slanted table; otherwise the  sewing machine may fall, resulting in injuries.
For a longer service life 1. 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.
2. 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.
3. Do not drop or hit the machine.
4. Always consult the operation manual when replacing or installing any assemblies, the presser feet, needle, or  other parts to assure correct installation.
5. Use only the interface cable (USB cable) included with this machine.
For repair or adjustment
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.
For additional product information and updates, visit our web site at www.brother.com
The contents of this manual and specifications of this product are subject to change without notice. 
						

							v 
						

							vi
WHAT YOU CAN DO WITH THIS MACHINE
Check operations and view advice on the large LCD (liquid crystal display).
SPECIAL FEATURES
Prepare the bobbin thread with one touch.
The automatic thread tension makes trial sewing unnecessary.
Automatic threading makes threading quick and easy.
Utility StitchesCharacter/Decorative 
Stitches 
Chapter 1
Chapter 3Chapter 4
Chapter 2
To learn the operation of the principal 
parts and the screens
Pre-programmed with more than 
100 frequently used stitches To learn how to prepare for sewing and 
basic sewing operations
The variety of stitches widen your creativity
Getting Ready Sewing Basics
Embroidery
Chapter 5
Maximum 30 cm x 18 cm (approx. 12 x 7 
inches) for large embroidery designs
Embroidery Edit
Chapter 6
Designs can be combined, rotated or enlarged
My Custom Stitch
Chapter 7
Create original decorative stitches
Appendix
Chapter 8
Caring for your machine and dealing with 
errors and malfunctions
Page 9
Page 43
Page 57 Page 115
Page 143 Page 197
Page 225 Page 235 
						

							vii
HOW TO USE THIS MANUAL
Chapter 1 and Chapter 2 explain your sewing machine’s basic operation procedures for someone who is 
using the sewing machine for the first time. If you want to sew utility stitches or character/ decorative 
stitches, read Chapter 1 and Chapter 2, then go on to Chapter 3 (Utility Stitches) or Chapter 4 (Character/
Decorative Stitches).
When you are ready to begin using the embroidery function after reading Chapter 1 and Chapter 2, 
proceed to Chapter 5 (Embroidery). Once you understand the steps explained in Chapter 5, go on to 
Chapter 6 (Embroidery Edit) for an explanation about the convenient em\
broidery edit functions.
In the screens that appear in the step-by-step directions the parts that are used for the operation are shown 
in . Compare the screen in the directions with the actual screen, and carry out the operation.
If, while using the machine, you experience something you do not understand, or there is a function you 
would like to know more about, refer to the index at the back of the operation manual in conjunction 
with the table of contents to find the section of the manual you should refer to.
To sew utility stitches
To sew character or 
decorative stitches
To do machine 
embroideryChapter 1Chapter 2 Chapter 3
Chapter 4
Chapter 1
Chapter 2Chapter 5 Chapter 6 
						

							Contents
viii
CONTENTS
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS ..................i
WHAT YOU CAN DO WITH THIS MACHINE ..... vi
HOW TO USE THIS MANUAL ............................ vii
NAMES OF MACHINE PARTS AND THEIR 
FUNCTIONS ........................................................... 1
Machine ................................................................................. 1
Needle and Presser Foot Section ............................................. 2
Embroidery Unit ..................................................................... 3
Operation Buttons ................................................................... 3
Included Accessories .............................................................. 4
Options................................................................................... 7
Chapter 1 Getting Ready9
TURNING THE MACHINE ON/OFF ...................10
LCD SCREEN .......................................................11
Screens Operations Performed Using a USB Mouse .............. 14
Using the Machine Setting Mode Key  .................................. 16
Using the Machine Operation Mode Key .............................. 21
Using the Pattern Explanation Key ........................................ 22
LOWER THREADING ..........................................23
Winding the Bobbin .............................................................. 23
Setting the Bobbin ................................................................. 26
Pulling Up the Bobbin Thread ............................................... 28
UPPER THREADING ...........................................29
Threading Using the “Automatic Threading” Button .............. 29
Threading Manually .............................................................. 31
Using the Twin Needle Mode ............................................... 34
Using Threads that Unwind Quickly ..................................... 36
CHANGING THE PRESSER FOOT .......................37
Removing the Presser Foot .................................................... 37
Attaching the Presser Foot ..................................................... 37
Attaching the Walking Foot................................................... 38
CHANGING THE NEEDLE...................................39
Chapter 2 Sewing Basics43
SEWING ..............................................................44
Sewing a Stitch ..................................................................... 44
Sewing Reinforcement Stitches ............................................. 46
Sewing Curves ...................................................................... 46
Changing Sewing Direction .................................................. 46
Sewing Heavyweight Fabrics ................................................ 47
Sewing Lightweight Fabrics ................................................... 48
Sewing Stretch Fabrics .......................................................... 48
STITCH SETTINGS...............................................49
Setting the Stitch Width ......................................................... 49
Setting the Stitch Length ........................................................ 49
Setting the Thread Tension .................................................... 50
USEFUL FUNCTIONS..........................................51
Automatic Reinforcement Stitching ....................................... 51
Automatic Thread Cutting ..................................................... 52
Pivoting ................................................................................ 53
Automatic Fabric Sensor System 
(Automatic Presser Foot Pressure) .......................................... 55
Locking the Screen ................................................................ 55
Chapter 3 Utility Stitches57
SELECTING UTILITY STITCHES...........................58
Saving Your Stitch Settings .................................................... 60
Using the Sewing Type Selection Key  .................................. 61
SEWING THE STITCHES......................................63
Straight Stitches..................................................................... 63
Dart Seam ............................................................................. 67
Gathering.............................................................................. 68
Flat Fell Seam ....................................................................... 69
Pintuck ................................................................................. 69
Zigzag Stitches ...................................................................... 71 Elastic Zigzag Stitches ........................................................... 73
Overcasting ........................................................................... 74
Quilting................................................................................. 79
Blind Hem Stitches ................................................................ 89
Appliqué ............................................................................... 90
Shelltuck Stitches .................................................................. 91
Scallop Stitches ..................................................................... 92
Top Stitching ......................................................................... 92
Smocking Stitches ................................................................. 93
Fagoting ................................................................................ 93
Tape or Elastic Attaching ....................................................... 94
Heirloom............................................................................... 95
One-step Buttonholes ............................................................ 97
Four-step Buttonholes.......................................................... 101
Bar Tacks ............................................................................ 105
Button Sewing ..................................................................... 107
Eyelet .................................................................................. 109
Multi-directional Sewing 
(Straight Stitch and Zigzag Stitch) ........................................ 110
Zipper Insertion ................................................................... 111
Chapter 4 Character/Decorative Stitches 115
SELECTING STITCH PATTERNS ........................ 116
Selecting Decorative Stitch Patterns/7mm Decorative Stitch 
Patterns/Satin Stitch Patterns/7mm Satin Stitch Patterns/
Cross Stitch/Utility Decorative Stitch Patterns ...................... 118
Alphabet Characters ............................................................ 118
SEWING STITCH PATTERNS ............................ 120
Sewing Attractive Finishes ................................................... 120
Basic Sewing ....................................................................... 120
Making Adjustments ............................................................ 121
EDITING STITCH PATTERNS ............................ 123
Changing the Size ............................................................... 124
Changing the Length (for 7mm Satin Stitch Patterns Only) ... 125
Creating a Vertical Mirror Image ......................................... 125
Creating a Horizontal Mirror Image ..................................... 125
Sewing a Pattern Continuously ............................................ 125
Changing Thread Density (for Satin Stitch Patterns Only)..... 126
Checking the Image............................................................. 127
COMBINING STITCH PATTERNS ..................... 128
Before Combining ............................................................... 128
Combining Various Stitch Patterns....................................... 128
Combining Large and Small Stitch Patterns.......................... 130
Combining Horizontal Mirror Image Stitch Patterns............. 130
Combining Stitch Patterns of Different Length ..................... 131
Making Step Stitch Patterns 
(for 7mm Satin Stitch Patterns Only) .................................... 132
USING THE MEMORY FUNCTION .................. 134
Stitch Data Precautions ....................................................... 134
Saving Stitch Patterns in the Machine’s Memory.................. 136
Saving Stitch Patterns to USB Media 
(Commercially Available) .................................................... 138
Saving Stitch Patterns in the Computer ................................ 139
Retrieving Stitch Patterns from the Machine’s Memory ........ 140
Recalling from USB Media .................................................. 141
Recalling from the Computer............................................... 142
Chapter 5 Embroidery
143
BEFORE EMBROIDERING................................. 144
Embroidery Step by Step...................................................... 144
Attaching Embroidery Foot “W” .......................................... 145
Attaching the Embroidery Unit ............................................ 146
SELECTING PATTERNS ..................................... 149
Selecting Embroidery Patterns/Heirloom Patterns/Border 
Patterns/Cross stitch Patterns/Floral alphabet Patterns .......... 151
Selecting Alphabet Character Patterns ................................. 152
Selecting Frame Patterns...................................................... 153
Selecting Patterns from Embroidery Cards ........................... 154