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Summary of Contents for Baby Lock Acclaim BLES4

  • Page 2 "IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS" When using overlock machine, basic safety precautions should always be followed, including the following. "Read all instructions before using this overlock machine." DANGER- To reduce the risk of electric shock. 1. The overlock machine should never be left unattended when plugged in. Always unplug this overlock machine from the electrical outlet immediately after using and before cleaning.
  • Page 3 3. Ne jamais utiliser la machine si le cordon ou la prise électrique sont endommagés , en cas de dysfonctionnement, de bris ou de dégâts d’eaux, vous devez la retourner chez votre revendeur BABY LOCK ou au centre de service le plus proche pour vérification, réparation, ajustement mécanique ou électrique.
  • Page 4 This means that its not only equipped with the Push to Thread Loopers but also equipped with the Push to Thread Needles. Your Baby Lock Acclaim is a high-quality, dependable machine. It gives you the ability to seam, overcast and trim all in one operation. Fabrics and threads you previously avoided are now a joy to sew because the Baby Lock Acclaim handles all varieties with equal ease.
  • Page 5 Notes:...
  • Page 6: Table Of Contents

    Table of Contents OVERVIEW........................ 5 How Your Acclaim Operates ................5 Overview of the Acclaim ................... 6 Accessories ...................... 7 Needles......................8 Thread ......................8 Optional Accessories ..................8 Setting Up Your Acclaim ................... 9 Cutting Blade Locking Dial ................10 Thread Cutter....................10 Presser Foot Pressure Adjustment ..............10 Snap-On Presser Foot..................10...
  • Page 7 Table of Contents (Cont.) 2-THREAD OVERLOCK ..................33 2-Thread Overlock ..................33 Converting from 3-Thread Overlock to 2-Thread Overlock ......33 2-Thread Flatlock - Wide ................34 2-Thread Flatlock - Narrow ................35 Flatlock "Topstitching"..................36 Blind Hemming ....................37 Blanket Stitch - Decorative Stitch..............
  • Page 8: Overview

    Serging is kind of a knitting process that loops two, three or four threads together to create a stitch. Your Baby Lock Acclaim operates with one or two needles and one or two "loopers," each carrying a thread to form the overlock stitch.
  • Page 9: Overview Of The Acclaim

    Overview of the Acclaim 1. Carrying handle 19. Front cover 2. Thread cutter 20. Threading lever 3. Presser foot pressure adjusting dial 21. Cord channel 4. Presser foot release lever 22. Differential feed adjusting lever 5. Needle threader lever 23. Handwheel 6.
  • Page 10: Accessories

    Accessories Your Baby Lock Acclaim serger has a built-in accessory compartment. To open, swing the lower section for the compartment of the thread stand to the right to reveal the tray holding some of the accessories listed below. Others may be found in the machine packing materials.
  • Page 11: Needles

    Needles Your Baby Lock Acclaim serger is set up with 90/14 machine needles, which are suitable for most medium and heavy weight fabrics. For lightweight fabrics, change to a size 75/11 needle. The needle's semi-ball point design is suitable for knits and wovens. Some manufacturers' needles may produce better quality stitches with your Baby Lock than others.
  • Page 12: Setting Up Your Acclaim

    Setting Up Your Acclaim 1. Remove machine from box After removing the packing materials from the box, gently lift your Baby Lock serger by grasping the handle provided on the top of the machine. Place the machine on a serger sewing table or any sturdy level surface that provides ample work area to the left of the machine.
  • Page 13: Cutting Blade Locking Dial

    Cutting Blade Locking Dial When no trimming is desired, as when stitching on a fold, rotate the cutting blade locking dial clockwise to the LOCK position. The cutting blade no longer moves up and down, but remains in its lowered position. To re-engage the cutting blade, turn the cutting blade locking dial half of a turn counter-clockwise.
  • Page 14: Stitch Length/Rolled Hem

    Stitch Length/Rolled Hem The stitch length / rolled hem adjusting dial is conveniently located just to the left of the front cover, near the base plate. (fig. A) The dial shows two stitch-length ranges, from 0.75, for the shortest stitch, to 4 for the longest. As the dial indicates, one range is for standard sewing and one is for rolled edging or narrow seaming.
  • Page 15: Differential Feed

    Differential Feed Your Baby Lock serger is equipped with differential feed. The set of feed dogs work independently in order to ensure smooth sewing on all fabrics. When the differential feed adjusting lever, located at the machine's right, front edge is set on "N" for normal feeding, the feed dogs move the same distance.
  • Page 16: Thread Delivery System

    Thread Delivery System The Baby Lock Acclaim revolutionizes the way a serger works with its Thread Delivery System. You no longer have to manually adjust the tension settings for the type of stitch you are serging. Select the type of stitch you wish to serge, the Acclaim will automatically feed the correct amount of thread through the loopers and thread guides to form a perfect stitch every time.
  • Page 17: 2-Thread Subsidiary Looper

    2-Thread Subsidiary Looper Either needle thread may be engaged for 2-thread overlock sewing. To engage the subsidiary looper 1. Open the front cover and the blade cover, cut the upper looper thread just above the threading port. (fig. A) Raise the presser foot and pull out the clipped thread from under the foot.
  • Page 18: Looper Air Threading System

    Looper Air Threading System Your Baby Lock Acclaim serger is equipped with an exclusive Push to Thread Loopers button. Thread your loopers all at once using the Push to Thread Loopers button. A quick burst of air allows your thread to flow through each looper with minimal effort.
  • Page 19: Notes

    Notes:...
  • Page 20: Threading

    Threading Preparation When using threads on cones or king spools place the cone or spool securely over the cone holders furnished on your machine. To avoid bending the thread stand, you may need to place one hand under the stand while positioning the cone. The cone holders prevent the cone or spool from spinning, enabling the thread to feed evenly.
  • Page 21: Threading Your Acclaim

    Threading Your Acclaim Your Baby Lock Acclaim is equipped with an exclusive "Electronic RevolutionAir Threading System" for fast, easy threading of the upper and lower loopers. One touch of the "Push to Thread" buttons will automatically thread the loopers and needles.
  • Page 22: Upper Looper

    Upper Looper 1. With the presser foot up and threading lever in the threading position. ( fig. A, page 18) 2. Place the thread cone or spool on the second spool pin on right side of the thread stand. (fig.C) Slip the thread into the telescopic antenna thread guide "A"...
  • Page 23: Right Needle

    Right Needle 1. Raise the presser foot to the up position and engage the machine to the threading position. (fig. A, page 18) 2. Place the thread on the second spool pin from the left on the thread stand. (illustrated below) Thread needle thread guides 1 and 2, then through the groove on the front of the machine and through guides 3, 4, 5, and 6.
  • Page 24: How To Use Revolutionair Needle Threader

    How to Use RevolutionAir Needle Threader 1. Open the front cover and the blade cover. 2. Set the threading lever from serging position to threading position. (fig.A) 3. Rotate the machine handwheel slowly toward you until it is in the locked position. (fig. B) 4.
  • Page 25: Needle Threading Mode

    Needle Threading Mode Acclaim has 3 types of threading Modes. Push to MODE 1: thread needles button Press the " Push to thread needles button" once, threading pump will work. Press button again , threading pump will stop. MODE 2: Press the "...
  • Page 26: Sewing With Fabric

    Serging with fabric With the needle and looper threads under the foot and to the back, lower the presser foot. While holding the threads in your left hand, press down on the foot control gently to begin a thread chain before serging fabric. (fig. A) You can leave the presser foot down for most serging applications.
  • Page 27: Re-Threading Loopers

    (page 18/19) Close the front cover and sew a test sample. Note: When re-threading your Baby Lock Acclaim using the "RevolutionAir Threading" feature, make sure that the previous thread that was in the looper (tube) is completely removed. This will eliminate any chance of the previous thread obstructing the flow of the air when re-threading the machine.
  • Page 28: 4-Thread Overlock

    4-Thread Overedging Overedging to finish facings, hems and seams before construction, is one of the most basic uses of a serger, such as making a garment or project with 5/8 inch (16mm) pressed open seams. (fig. A) To overedge, place the single layer of fabric in front of the presser foot, aligning the cut edge with upper cutting blade.
  • Page 29: 4-Thread Overlock

    4-Thread Overlock With the Acclaim Thread Delivery System, the upper and lower looper threads lock together evenly over the cut fabric edge(s) to form a flat, non-rolling pattern of overlocking stitches on both sides of the fabric. The left needle thread interlocks with both looper threads at the stitching line to create the seam. The right needle thread, visible on the top side of the stitch, interlocks with both the loopers to add durability.
  • Page 30: 3-Thread Overlock

    3-Thread Overlock-Wide The 3-thread overlock wide stitch is perfect for edge-finishing most woven fabrics and for seaming knits that do not require the extra durability that a fourth thread provides. It's easy to convert your Acclaim to serge with 3 threads by simply eliminating either needle.
  • Page 31: 3-Thread Overlock-Narrow

    3-Thread Overlock-Narrow It's easy to convert your Acclaim to serge a narrow seam with 3 threads by simply eliminating the left needle. To convert to narrow 3-thread overlock (3.0-3.5mm), cut the left needle thread. (fig. A) Remove the left needle and left needle thread completely from the machine.
  • Page 32: 3-Thread Overlock-Narrow Hem

    3-Thread Overlock-Narrow Hem Narrow hemming is an attractive finish for most fabrics weights. It is recommended to test sew with sample piece of fabric. Remove the left needle and left needle thread completely from the machine. Clear the stitch fingers. Turn the stitch length adjusting dial counter-clockwise to the rolled hem range.
  • Page 33: Rolled Edging

    Rolled Edging The rolled edge setting is used to achieve the narrowest stitch possible (1.5mm) on your Baby Lock serger. The stitch is suitable for seaming sheer and lightweight fabrics and for edging and hemming lightweight fabrics. 3-Thread Rolled Edge With the stitch selector set on "D", a narrow hem will become a rolled edge.
  • Page 34: Seaming Sheers

    Seaming Sheers Use the 3-thread rolled hem setting when sewing sheer fabrics that otherwise would require French seams. Set the stitch length at 2.5. Then simply sew the seams, aligning the fabric edges with the serger seam guide, trimming away the excess seam allowance. Lettuce Edge A frilly or "lettuce"...
  • Page 35: 3-Thread Flatlock

    3-Thread Flatlock Flatlock seams are most suited to fabrics which do not ravel such as interlock knits, tricot, sweatshirt fleece and synthetic suede. The needle thread is carried below the fabric and to the cut edge of the fabric. The lower looper thread rides along the cut edge of the fabric for stability.
  • Page 36: 2-Thread Overlock

    2-Thread Overlock The 2-thread function provides an economical and less bulky means of overedging all fabrics. The standard 2-thread overlock is the same as a 2-thread flatlock stitch. When sewn with specialty threads, 2-thread sewing makes decorative seams and edges for activewear, children's clothing , ruffles, and hemlines.
  • Page 37: 2-Thread Flatlock - Wide

    2-Thread Flatlock - Wide Sew 2-thread flatlock seams in the same way as 3-thread flatlock seams, then pull the two fabric layers apart until the seam lies flat. (fig. A) Because the threads show on the outside as well as the inside of the garment or project, the 2-thread flatlock seam is often considered a decorative application.
  • Page 38: 2-Thread Flatlock - Narrow

    2-Thread Flatlock - Narrow Sew a 2-thread flatlock seam then pull the two fabric layers apart until the seam lies flat. (fig. A) Because the threads show on the outside as well as the inside of the garment or project, the flatlock seam is often considered a decorative application.
  • Page 39: Flatlock "Topstitching

    Flatlock "Topstitching" The flatlock stitch need not be limited at seamlines. When sewn on a fold, flatlocking can create attractive decorative effects within the body of a garment or project. Either follow placement lines on your pattern or design your own special effects by stitching the fabric before laying out pattern pieces.
  • Page 40: Blind Hemming

    Blind Hemming Your Baby Lock Acclaim can create a sturdy, nearly invisible blindhem. 1. Set the machine for 2-Thread Overlock-Narrow with the right needle threaded. Set the stitch width at 5.0 and the stitch length at 4.0 in the standard range.
  • Page 41: Blanket Stitch - Decorative Stitch

    Blanket Stitch - Decorative Stitch Set up the machine for 2-thread flatlock-wide but the needle threading path is different for this technique. 1. Insert a size 90 top stitch needle in left overlock needle position. 2. Engage the threading lever in the threading position. 3.
  • Page 42: Ladder Stitch - Decorative Stitch

    Ladder Stitch - Decorative Stitch Note: The threading path for the needle thread is Ladder different in this technique. Please refer to the Quick Right Side Reference Threading Guide or illustration below. Right Side 1. Insert a size 90 top stitch needle in left overlock needle position.
  • Page 43: Returning To 3 Or 4-Thread Overlock

    Returning to 3 or 4-Thread Overlock 1. Open the front cover and rotate the handwheel counterclockwise to bring the needle clamp to its highest position. 2. Slide the subsidiary looper to the left direction and swing it clockwise to the right. 3.
  • Page 44: Wave Stitch

    Wave Stitch The Wave Stitch provides a decorative "wavy" edging on fabric. (This is not to be confused with "Lettuce Edge" on page 31). The upper looper thread and the lower looper thread gradually appear every 25 stitches to create a stitch that looks like a "Wave". When using different color specialty threads (pages 53/54) for the upper or lower loopers, the Wave stitch creates an attractive stitch for edging.
  • Page 45: 3-Thread Wave Stitch

    3-Thread Wave Stitch 1. Turn the Wave/Overlock Selector lever from "OVERLOCK" to "WAVE". 2. Cut the threads from the thread cones, raise presser foot and remove threads from the thread paths. 3. Engage the threading lever to threading position. (page 18) 4.
  • Page 46: 3-Thread Rolled Wave Stitch

    3-Thread Rolled Wave Stitch 1. Turn the Wave/Overlock Selector lever from "OVERLOCK" to "WAVE". 2. Cut the threads from the thread cones, raise presser foot and remove threads from the thread paths. 3. Engage the threading lever to threading position. (page 18) 4.
  • Page 47: 3-Thread Reversed Wave Stitch

    3-Thread Reversed Wave Stitch You can also get the wave stitch in the back of fabric by crossing the upper and lower looper threads before the threading ports. This Reversed Wave Stitch is attractive for an expressive stitch with decorative cover stitches. (fig. A) 1.
  • Page 48: Basic Serging Techniques

    Securing Ends The serger stitch will not unravel readily, and in most cases serged seams are secured by an intersecting seam. If that's not the case, there are several options for securing a seam. (fig. A) 1. Leave a 3 inch (7.5cm) chain, separate the threads and tie a knot.
  • Page 49: Securing Ends

    Securing Ends (Cont.) To lock the end of the seam: 1. Take one stitch off the end of the seam. (fig. F) 2. Raise the presser foot and bring the needle(s) to the highest position. Pull back gently on the fabric to clear the stitch fingers.
  • Page 50: Turning Outside Corners

    Turning Outside Corners 1. Stitch along one edge until you reach the corner. Take one stitch off the edge of the fabric (fig. A). (As you approach the edge, you may want to stop and manually turn the handwheel towards you.) 2.
  • Page 51: Serging Curves

    Serging Curves To serge around inside or outside curves, guide the fabric into the cutting blade, not the needle(s). Remember, cutting takes place before the fabric reaches the needle. Because the long serger presser foot holds the fabric more securely, you may need to raise and lower the presser foot several times to maneuver around very tight curves.
  • Page 52: Using Specialty Threads

    Using Specialty Threads Beautiful stitches can be formed by serging with specialty threads, cords and ribbons. These heavier or shinier threads can be used to enhance appearance, add strength or elasticity, or create special effects, depending on the thread you choose. Some specialty threads work well through the needle and loopers.
  • Page 53: Bypassing The Threading Port

    Bypassing the Threading Port Heavy weight threads can be used through your regular looper thread paths. Specific techniques may require that the thread bypass the thread port for the thread pull to be loosened. Start with the machine threaded with regular serger thread.
  • Page 54: Thread Cradle For Loopers

    Thread Cradle for Loopers 1. Open the covers, and then raise the presser foot. 2. At the threading port, clip the looper thread that is to be replaced. (fig. A) Remove thread from under the foot and the upper thread guides. Replace cone of thread with specialty thread.
  • Page 55: Looper Threading Tool

    Looper Threading Tool 1. Open the front and cutting blade covers, and then raise the presser foot. 2. At the threading port, cut the looper thread that is to be replaced. Remove thread from under the foot and the upper thread guides. Replace cone of thread with specialty thread.
  • Page 56: Specialty Thread Guide Chart

    Specialty Thread Guide Chart Woolly Nylon Topstitching Machine Embroidery Thread Buttonhole Twist Metallic Threads Decorative edges for Edging or flatlock Soft stretchy seams on clothing, gift items, seaming for sportswear lingerie, swimwear, home décor, etc. and home décor items. active wear, and for APPLICATION rolled edge stitch.
  • Page 57 Specialty Thread Guide Chart (Cont.) Designer 6 Machine Embroidery Clear Nylon Pearl Crown Rayon Threads: Rayon and Monofilament Polyester, 30, 40, 50 Candlelight weight. Jeans Stitch Lingerie Thread Ribbon Thread Decorative edging, flat- Lingerie and lightweight Techniques APPLICATION locking, rolled hem, fabrics, edging of fine requiring the thread wave stitch, rolled wave...
  • Page 58: Maintenance

    If for some reason your machine does not cut or perform as it should, please take your machine to your nearest Baby Lock retailer. It is possible that the result of poor cutting may indicate other problems.
  • Page 59: Cleaning

    Cleaning Your Baby Lock will operate at best performance if it is kept clean at all times. The serger's cutting action creates much more lint than you will find on conventional sewing machine. Your serger's major moving parts are well protected and do not need to be oiled.
  • Page 60: Troubleshooting

    Troubleshooting Before taking your machine in for service, check the following: Machine fails to start: 1. Are electrical plugs properly connected? 2. Is the power switch on? 3. Check household circuit breaker or fuse. 4. Is the threading lever in the serging position? 5.
  • Page 61: Dos And Don'ts

    Troubleshooting (Cont.) Needle threading difficulties: 1. Is the thread end in the proper needle eye? 2. Is the thread end cut sharp? 3. Is the needle threading lever down completely? 4. Is the needle threading inlet just behind the needles? 5.
  • Page 62: Technical Data

    Technical Data Stitch Types: 2 needles, 2 loopers: 4-Thread Overlock 1 needle (left or right), 2 loopers 3-Thread Overlock (wide, narrow, and narrow hem) 3-Thread Flatlock (wide and narrow) right needle only 3-Thread Rolled Edge 3-Thread Wave 3-Thread Rolled Wave 1 needle (left or right), 1 looper 2-Thread Flatlock (wide and narrow) 2-Thread Blanket Stitch...
  • Page 63: Chart For Stitch Selection Settings

    Chart for Stitch Selection Settings Stitch Stitch Stitch Wave Differential Page Needle Stitch Type Selector Length Selector Width Feed 4-Thread Left 2.5-3.5 Overlock 6.0-7.5 Right Left 4-Thread 6.0-7.5 Gathering Right 3-Thread Overlock Left Wide Narrow 3.0-3.5 3.0-3.5 Right 3-Thread N-0.6 Narrow 0.75-4.0R Right...
  • Page 64 ES4-TA EI-45-TA Printed in Japan...

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