How to use a Vintage Brother sewing machine J-A 28 (download the manual)

Blog post + DOWNLOAD THE USER MANUAL:
►-- bit.ly/3Bmz04x
Learn tips to use a vintage sewing machine Brother A-J 28 or similar models.
How to thread the machine, different stitches, and settings to sew from thin cotton to leather.
My English is not great but here you have a free video to support you.
I hope you find this video useful and a good start for many sewing adventures.
Thanks,
x Bibi

[@kathrichardson415]

Thank you so very much for this video of how to use this machne. It's a Godsend for me. I was given this machine at the weekend and although I have been used to different sewing machines over the years this one got me stumped. The machine wasn't working when given to me and looking at your video, it now works perfectly. Your help is much appreciated Bibi. 🤩

[@BibiCameron]

@@kathrichardson415 awesome. I’m Glad this video could help you out ❤️

[@kathrichardson415]

@@BibiCameron ♥

[@rebeccas.7802]

Thank you so much for this video! I have one of these, it was my grandmother's. She passed away a few years ago and I'm so happy to be able to learn how to use this machine. It makes me feel closer to her ❤

[@madandhawan7204]

Thanks for the demonstration But would love to have print manual Is it possible to get it if so how

[@huckabeecait]

I've been trying for three years to figure out how to use mine and I just found your video and I cannot thank you enough. I've been hand sewing my costumes for going on ten years because I've never understood how the machines work and I just used my machine successfully for the first time ever 🥺 thank you so much for this video💖

[@tirnajo6551]

I had one of these machines buried under stuff under my stairs. I took it out, cleaned and oiled it, and got it up and running by following this guide. Lovely machine, that was given to me years ago and I never used it. Thankyou for this video.

[@dee4174]

These machines were built to last. No plastic parts. Love them. X

[@theeggtimertictic1136]

I just got this machine in a second hand shop yesterday and I want to thank you for making this video and for the pdf of the instruction manual ... it was very helpful!

[@Truthosaurus]

My grandmother passed 01/03/00 so many times she wanted me to sit and learn the sewing machine but being a young idiot I lost all those opportunities. I have her Brother 211A unfortunately I think the rest of the accessories were in her desk and probably ended up at Goodwill. She was so meticulous about this machine I wasn't allowed to look at it unless she was present. I know the manual and box of accessories had to be in her desk. I didn't think to look. I only grabbed her machine which is in a nice wooden case. I just want to say thank you for being such a selfless person and sharing your love for these beautiful old school machines. I mean you even shared the manual which most people would charge you for. I think it might be helpful enough to figure this 211A out. Thanks again.

[@BibiCameron]

I'm glad I could be helpful. x

[@SoniaScrapbook]

The link for the manual doesn't work, can you share a new link? ​@BibiCameron

[@Hb02765]

This is very similar to my old Jones sewing machine, which i love. I had it for years in the garage and then got it out, cleaned it up and it still goes like a dream. The vintage machines are definitely great work horses, they never give up unless the worker makes an error. I would recommend these to anyone. Thank you for a great tutorial.

[@BibiCameron]

I 100% agree. thanks for sharing!

[@mellalnathalie6949]

MOI AUSSI mais je me pose une question .Faut il changer le condensateur antiparasite ?

[@CCTippers]

Lovely vid, I adore vintage machines and they have the best quality stitch, I have to very old singers one hand crank and one electric, no zig zag, so maybe I might look for one of the beauty’s your showing, I remember my mum had one just like yours. You did amazing with your accent, thank you.

[@Tavpanda]

Nonsense! Your English is FANTASTIC! I found this same sewing machine by a dumpster 4 years ago and I’m finally trying to learn how to use it.

[@alexandermontagano2833]

Fantastic. Thanks to you, I got my older machine going again!!!

[@jasonsharp7823]

I love your videos and your English is just wonderful as well. Great job! Fixing and restoring vintage machines is one of my passions as well.

[@glockstitch]

Hello I just got the most beautiful brother sewing machine today. It’s changed my life. It’s my upgrade from a non name brand battery operated one. And when I got home I broke multiple needles trying to learn about it. Your info on needle plates has cleared a lot of my concern. Mine only came with a single stitch needle plate. Which is all I use. But that’s because that’s the only function of my old machine. My new vintage brother has straight stitch and zig zag. So I need a new needle plate. Thank you! Love your voice.

[@rich-f-in-tx6388]

The first thread guide on top at the back closest to the thread spool is actually a spring where you pull the thread underneath and around to the empty bobbin in order to wind a bobbin. It's the thread guide with the screw on top. Your bobbins will wind much more evenly if you use only that spring. Most (not all) Japanese-made Kenmore sewing machines are the same way. Just an FYI. 😊👌 Similar to this, except your spring/guide is on the top rear: kzbin.info/www/bejne/jpTNmIt9n5iAndE P.S. Higher number on the upper tension is normally a TIGHTER/MORE tension. 😊

[@virginiadodsworth4000]

Thank you so much Bibi, I 've finally got the Jones sewing machine I have had for nearly thirty years threaded properly!😊🤗 I nearly got rid of it, and thought about buying a new one, thank goodness I didn't. Thank you. I need to see more of your videos!

[@BibiCameron]

I'm glad to know you didn't bin it :) thank you for stopping by. x

[@michellecallahan9496]

I'm picking up a Brother Opus 681 today, from what I can tell it's very similar to your machine. Thank you so much for the time you put into this video!

[@BibiCameron]

Michelle Callahan it is my pleasure. Thanks for stopping by . X

[@namdolf]

Thankyou for taking the time to make this! It just helped me set up my new second hand Brother!

[@HulloItsIcy]

Thank you! I found a similar machine and your threading demonstration was able to help me fix the tension!

[@marsacoss]

I just found this machine at goodwill today! Picked it up for cheap and it seems to run well for a start! Just needs a bobbin case and maybe a new foot peddle. I can’t wait to use it! Great video, thank you!

[@ladyjane8531]

I lost my manual for threading and your video helped me because I realized the needle hole needed to be on the side and then it sewed perfectly. Thank you

[@richardmorton4448]

Been looking for this manual for my mums sewing machine for a while, as it needs a good clean up and hoping to get it up and running now , thanks Bibi you are a life saver!!

[@susanharrison3052]

Thank you for these videos, they have been extremely handy with my recent vintage Jones machine

[@Dandymoments]

thank you, i was able to thread my old machine after watching your video. it was very helpful!!

[@sally-3830]

Thank You so much for this CLEAR instructional video. I was given a machine similar to this. Tried all of your suggestions & it works beautifully

[@BibiCameron]

YAY!!!! awesome!! :) hugs

[@chrisdowney2743]

Thank you so much. I have my late mothers machine which hasnt been used for over 30 years. But today I'm givibg it a go - and now I have some idea of where to start. Christine.

[@BibiCameron]

yay! Happy sewing. x

[@alebows]

Thank you so much for this beautiful video! I have an old Jones 574 and just learning now how to use it! Your video is very very nice and useful!! ❤️ 🙏

[@judyf3684]

Thank you for showing this and giving the manual!

[@pauldrumwell4922]

Thank you for this well informed video. I bought this model for my mother and it is perfect for her.

[@BibiCameron]

paul drumwell it is my pleasure. Thank you for stopping by . X

[@annabelcowey293]

This is the same as my recent purchase which is names Jones. This is a wonderful machine to work with!! Thank you for this video it helped a new user! I don't have the manual sadly but will try to find one.

[@robbierisque]

Gracias Bibi! You helped me learn how to use my new Brother 651!

[@BibiCameron]

yay!!! awesome

[@terrigelbaum8066]

These machines are amazing.

[@Emiserb]

wow what a beautiful machine!! love it!

[@slatekabeat2890]

Thanks very much for the manual Bibi. It's a great help.

[@spiderlady123]

Just got my third one! For $15, a Brother 280, lovely green and cream colors. Thanks for the video!

[@BibiCameron]

In USA you get amazing deals! Here not much :) enjoy them. x HUgs from Scotland

[@kathyhamer6118]

Excellent video, you explained everything very well.

[@zetalyn]

I gave this model machine away and cannot get on with the new ones. Really want to find another one like this!! Best machine. !

[@dianaruffini8794]

Thankyou so much! Great video! Very thorough! You are a great teacher!

[@AndyMarsh]

Thanks so much for this, really clear video.

[@gailschuetze6769]

Love your video. Very good explanation. Beautiful vintage machine.

[@BibiCameron]

Thank you 😊

[@bordersw1239]

Excellent video - helped my 14yr old set up an identical one we bought for £5 from a charity shop. Many thanks!

[@BibiCameron]

Awesome. Enjoy

[@bordersw1239]

@@BibiCameron . Thanks, she’s loving it, just made a top and a bag, the smell of old oil has now gone too!

[@desii1972]

What a beautiful sewing machine

[@mageg4]

This just saved my life! Couldn’t for the life of me figure out what I was doing wrong and I have a bat costume to sew for Halloween!

[@nieznajoma4303]

This is great! Thank you for that video❤

[@renepellissier2193]

thank you so much, wonderful demo

[@J9coughlin]

I love your work. I also have vintage sewing machines thank you

[@BibiCameron]

thank you. x

[@vasurasiah]

thank you so much for the manual. I have been searching the manual for a very long time. You are an angel.

[@BibiCameron]

it is my pleasure. x

[@sandywhite9987]

This machine looks like my Brother Opus 151. I'm having trouble finding a manual for it. Do you know where I can find one? Been looking for days now. Appreciate your help. Thanks, Sandy

[@sandywhite9987]

I just noticed as I was cleaning under the machine, that it said J-A-28 on the front as I lifted the machine up from the bottom carry case. Would you please tell me how I get a copy of the instruction manuel? Thank you so very much. Sandy

[@sandywhite9987]

I have no idea how to add a public reply.

[@TheMacSunday]

omg I absolutely love it!

[@Quinn000100]

Omgoodness, thank you so much for a fantastic video. I'll be back. Cheers

[@BibiCameron]

My pleasure

[@madonnalilian5763]

Thank you so much. Your video is so nice and it was helpful

[@TheGardenKitten]

thank you for this video. And your English is wonderful, lovely voice

[@BibiCameron]

Thank you very much . X

[@rachaelajibade9457]

Thankyou you just saved me from selling off this beauty.. wow!

[@Xixu.co.6]

Great video. I have a brother 651 and it was exactly the same as yours. Thanks for posting this

[@BibiCameron]

V.Vega I'm so glad I did . I thought it couldn't help anyone and it is impressive the amount of people who have machines like this :) thanks for stoping by . X

[@blondebombshellharris2447]

Very awesome love love love the best on here #651 Brother's

[@kafkadrc]

gracias, el único vídeo qe realmente me a ayudado...

[@Chellie123]

Hey Bibi :) I inherited this machine from my mum, I believe from the 70's ;) it looks exactly the same as this one but there is one difference the dials are different for the pressure and drop feed. Instead of Darn - Silk - Norm my one has Darn - Norm - Thick. I have struggled to find a manual so thank you for this one, everything I needed to find out is there after searching for a long time delighted to find it :D If you could explain the difference I would really appreciate it as I am self taught and even Google couldn't help me ;)

[@BibiCameron]

I'm so happy to know this. thank you very much for your kind comment!! x BIbi

[@jeanenepetrone5804]

Love this video. Very clear. Lovely demeanor. Subscribing!!

[@BibiCameron]

thank you

[@mrfudgierubber]

Lovely video, thank you. I am bidding on one on eBay at the moment.

[@lfntmstr]

estoy en eso toda la mañana y he descubierto cosas. felicidades por el bb

[@NB-se7or]

I could listen to you talk all day. You should narrate books:)

[@BibiCameron]

aww, bless you. My accent is a bit funny but I'm glad you like it. x

[@alexbowie6316]

My Wife has just checked out your vid too, and says it is so clearly spoken and thought out. I only noticed your Surname later and thought...........maybe Bibi has married a Scot? If so, ATB to you and hubby and I hope you are seeing some of the lovely scenery here when weather allows.

[@BibiCameron]

thanks to your wife as well. Yes I'm married my Scot soul mate. It has been a blessing. :)

[@alexbowie6316]

Hi Bibi Hope you and Babio are doing well! I did not know these machines were so good. I have a Jones version of this Brother model. I am going to get it out as I have been persevering with an old Singer 66 treadle. This little Japanese Brother looks a better machine and more user friendly. Thank you for a great video and I just love the way you speak English. ATB from Bonnie Scotland!

[@BibiCameron]

Alex Bowie hey I'm in Scotland as well . We might be neighbours and we don't know it!

[@BibiCameron]

Alex Bowie Bowie hey I'm in Scotland as well . We might be neighbours and we don't know it! Thanks for watching .

[@ioanabbb5563]

Thank you so much❤🙏🏼

[@influentialolive]

I collect them as well. Got a brother, Zig-zag machine today. I am looking up the year... it's between 1950-60,

[@eagleviewhd]

I have a JA-19 machine. It is very, very heavy, but it is so very smooth when seeing. It has a 4mm wide zig-zag. It also can use decorative stitch cams, but I do not have any of the cams.

[@cherriesnhoney]

thank you for this tutorial! i got a charger 661, do you know if the manual would be helpful? my machine, other than colour looks the same. tfs:)

[@zionisfruitful4597]

Hello Bibi and am saying a BIG THANK YOU!!!! Please, do continue to make more educative videos about sewing machines especially vintage. Please my PRESSER foot is BENT. My sewing machine is exactly like the one in the video. PLEASE, how can I CHANGE the PRESSER foot and what TYPE of presser foot should I get? Is it LOW Shank? Is it ZIG ZAG or a STRAIGHT STITCH?

[@miguelslade]

Many thanks!

[@kiyotakakaneko3602]

The old zigzag sewing machines made zigzagging possible by swinging the shuttle. This method is no longer used. This sewing machine has the drawback of being heavy, but is otherwise great. It is beautiful and durable. With a few modifications, you can sew leather and thick fabrics.

[@CrystalCryMoon]

really helpful tutorial! thank you!

[@BibiCameron]

it's my pleasure. x Bibi

[@CrystalCryMoon]

keep up the amazing and helpful work. I could understand your English amazingly! ^ u ^ xx

[@BibiCameron]

Bear-A-Cwta thank you very much! x

[@aarushigoel7302]

Hi Bibi, what is the second accessory you showed called? I have the same machine but can't figure out what is the use of it - oval shaped with hole in center

[@hailyjacob1793]

Hey Bibi, thanks so much for your Video it really help me!... I Just bought a vintage sewing machine but I can't find how old it is. Could you help me with that if I send you some pictures?... I really want to start my own collection but is hard to find the information about it.

[@bobwestinicky8447]

Thank you.

[@loisfriesen8378]

I have a Brother Piedmont J-A-28. It sews like a dream.... however, I'm wondering - I'd like to pick up some attachments for it - in particular a Pleating foot, and a walking foot. I tried a vintage Singer gathering and pleating foot, but it doesn't fit. Would a Greist attachment fit it? Or what should I be looking for?

[@Peanut1973martine]

I'm really happy you showed me this video, I got a brother window matic 1960s sewing machine and I wanted to use zig zag but my machine don't have same top width areas adjustments like yours I got the reverse and forward idea but I'm still wondering if I can add a bottom plate like u did with your sewing machine but I'm not still sure I can do zig zag if my machine will do it, I'm still learning it I got the manual for it but dont show it, and I need to oil the machine also as sat for a while longer than 6 months

[@Peanut1973martine]

If I can help me know if my one will do zig zag I'd be very grateful as its slightly different to your sewing machine bibi it's the brothrr window matic I'm trying to learn for zig zag if u can help me x

[@fionaday9866]

what a great video. You English is wonderful! (you said you thought it wasn't) How can I download or even read the manual?

[@aprilalldredge8777]

Thanks very Much for this tutorial I learned so much. I purchased a universal 18905 sewing machine and has more little different sewing parts goes on top of the machine and I m trying to find manual. I can do straight stich but still could not figure out the others.

[@BibiCameron]

Isel Alldredge hi thanks for stopping by. To be honest I have never used other stitches but zig zag and straight. In the Manual of this machine you might find some instructions.x Link in video description.Bibi

[@terryjohnston8037]

I have a brother 560 old machine. Can you post how to get it threaded properly?

[@margimac1]

my machine is brother j-a-28 but it is quite different and as I inherited it without manual there are a few things I cant work out. im sorry it is not the same as the one you have because you are so clear on what to do it would be so easy to learn from you. I think my machine is the older brother of yours. it is iron with a wooden case and bobbin threading on the wheel. I need to search some more. but I so enjoyed your video thank you

[@BibiCameron]

I'm happy to know his video could help you. x

[@bluemantom77]

I have a brother model 151 zig zag sewing machine I want to know what is the standard size sewing needle for those type of machines that mine is the similar color this one but looks like the other video she did that's like beige any help from the community would be much appreciated thank you

[@BibiCameron]

hello, I dont know which is that sewing machine model but what I know is that there are universal needles you can get in any craft shop. Those are the ones I use. You can also get leather needles... etc .As far as I know, there is no need for a special needles. :) happy sewing. x

[@arnold3782]

I wish I could have met you five yrs ago

[@MichaelSodapop]

We have a brother Model 621 that's similar color but with slightly different badges. We want to sell it cause we really need the money but I can't find out what it's worth. I know some old sewing machines by brother can go for over $600 but others as low as $75. Is there another number I should be researching?

[@txknitnurse]

Thank you so much for this video. I'm so excited. I am at my Mother's and just found my dear friend, Brother (Wizard) A-J 28 sewing machine. It's beautiful. Can't wait to get it home and concentrate on your video. My parents gave this to me many years ago. I learned how to sew on it and remember making my clothes as a young teen. I would love a copy of the manual and tried the link but it no longer works. Do you have any suggestions to get a copy?

[@BibiCameron]

this is awesome. The link defo might be working. I had to pay for it .. need to find an easier way to share it . x Bibi

[@jijiguapa5497]

thankyou for all.please tell me if the machin crosley is good because I bought it at the moment

[@BibiCameron]

oh JIji, I just saw your comment so sorry as we got a new baby and its is a bit hard to catch up with the comments. I'm afraid I don't know the Crosley Model. Only those I have posted here. x hugs

[@Peanut1973martine]

Hi bibi, just see mine won't do zig zag online, as it don't have the option, such a shame does only straight stitch I'm still learning it as I got it second hand but needs oiling I think x as been in my garage for a bit, my mum used to repair machines like u do so got small idea of how but still learning lots I love your video u have

[@BibiCameron]

Petina Ford thank you for stopping by and for your kind words . Hmm if your machine is this model it might have the option check the manual. Free download below the video . Hugs. X

[@doneishaj.5581]

I have a brother 151 model and I need help troubleshooting I hope didn’t ruin the machine everything seems fine and I’ve got the manual it’s just the machine won’t see Plz help

[@vickiglenn2527]

Thank you for this wonderful video! Someone left a machine like this at the dump and I love it. I noticed my rear tension disc was loose. Your video helped me establish that it is too loose (I still can't believe how thorough you were in showing the details). It just flops around and does not touch the front disc. It still sews decently, but I don't know if I am missing a spacer or if a spring is bad in it. Do you still own this model or was it one of the ones you had to get rid of? I was sad to hear you had to let go of some of your machines. I collect them as well and I prefer the older ones too. I can repair them myself and they are so much more reliable. These particular machines were made in Japan which is why they are so precise and run like a dream.

[@BibiCameron]

Bless you . I don’t have the machine any longer . My collection was getting crazy. I made the video to not forget how to use it as my memory could fail me. I’m glad it has helped so many people and I’m not sure what could be wrong with the disc in your machine. Sometimes is a matter of tighten things up but I couldn’t tell. If the tension is too lose you could get knots all the time. I found a local sewing machine expert and she fix anything for £20 lol they fix machines everyday. Maybe you have someone local that could help ?

[@vickiglenn2527]

@@BibiCameron , thank you for your nice response. I'm sorry that you no longer have the machine. I did figure out my problem though. The tension discs close together when the presser foot is dropped. I just never noticed it before since I am always switching machines. I have never seen another machine do that so I thought something was wrong. Thanks again!

[@mrfairycake4333]

Bibi great video...what sowing machine do you use at home for most of your sowing do you still use a vintage machine or do you use a more moden machine?

[@alizap7460]

i wonder which one is older, this one or the brother-o-matic?

[@annettehachey7909]

I have acquired a brother galaxie 221. Can you post a video on it if possible please.

[@ianjamesbrady6841]

Hi Bibi I need a zig zag plate are they all the same size I actual have the same sewing machine thank you

[@jenniferparker4350]

Thank you so much for this video and for making the user manual for this machine available online! My mother has a similar machine (with no manual) and always refers to your video whenever she needs to re-thread her machine, lol! Anyway, We need to replace the bobbin winding tire, and I was wondering if these are universal? If not, which one should I search for? Her specific model is Brother Profile 831. I’m a vintage Singer native who knows nothing about Brothers machines! I appreciate any info you can give me!

[@BibiCameron]

Hi , I’m glad to know this video is useful. Regardless on the country you live , I believe Google is defo better than me to provide you with that kind of info . Some people or online shops are specialised/ so they only sell vintage sewing machine spare parts. Try to find those who deliver to your area . Alternatively a local sewing machine store could help. X

[@delphiwaters]

I’m not sure if you’ll see this. But the machine I bought seems to be sewing backwards.. do you know the quick fix for this? Thanks! Great videos!

[@boxgirl51]

Looking for the right bobbin for a brother Galaxie 131?

[@aishaholowolayemo8221]

Hello bibi. Can this machine use twin needle ?

[@AS-lb3bv]

I have a brother model 651. Very similar but no pedal and a few other differences. Can anyone help?

[@bridgeth5643]

Please tell me what is the button behind the needle uptake. or the button attached to the spring on the inside of the door of where the light is. No one explaines this....

[@savangirl]

thank you for your video. I inherited a Brother opus 141 and was looking for how to load the bobbin but mine doesn't have the same setup on top and no manual either so perhaps it doesn't have that feature?

[@savangirl]

took me some fiddling but I found it. it's on the side closest to the operator connected to the wheel. your video helped me get it all back up and running.

[@BibiCameron]

Hi there, thank you very much. I'm so happy to heard my video helped you. sorry could reply before. hugs. Bibi

[@rogershields5341]

Hello Bibi Great video I have a question for you or anyone else who reads this I was just given my grandmother’s original Brother Sewing machine that she taught me to sew on over 40 years ago I had forgotten how to thread it properly so your video helped immensely. After she passed my family got rid of the original sewing table that use to hold the sewing machine and with it the instructions and attachments hat went to her sewing machine which brings me to my question How can I determine the model so I can hopefully download a manual to better know what all I can do with it and how to use/clean properly It looks much like this and also the 631 and 651 but has an extra pop up plate on the top of it. The only markings I see are underneath the machine and it looks likeJA1. The other markings I find are Z769946. It’s the two tone blue like the one in this video. I have pictures to show if you or anyone else may be able to help Thank you in advance for any help Roger

[@BibiCameron]

Hi Roger, have you download the manual in the links under the video to see if it suits your machine? I'll advise to contact the machine maker, or join FB group about vintage sewing machines and share pictures. I had to research for each of my machines. I would love to help but I'm afraid I'm not an expert.

[@rogershields5341]

I did download the manual, and it fits most questions I have but not all What is the FB group you are referencing I will gladly join and pose the questions there V/R Roger

[@Quinn000100]

Hello Bibi Cameron....I have a Brother 641...the feet (foot) won't feed....can you help me pls?

[@gracieferguson1653]

Do you have info on a Riccar machine.

[@oyinfunmi9244]

Hey bibi. Can you please do a review on Compal galaxie brother model 870. I'm in a great need of it

[@BibiCameron]

Hi , I would but I don’t have have that machine !! X