Elna eXcellence 680+ Sewing Machine User Manual

Introduction

This manual provides comprehensive instructions for the safe and efficient operation, setup, and maintenance of your Elna eXcellence 680+ Sewing Machine. Please read this manual thoroughly before using the machine to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

Figure 1: Elna eXcellence 680+ Sewing Machine. This image displays the overall design of the machine, including the main body, needle area, and control panel.

Safety Instructions

• 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.
• Keep fingers away from all moving parts. Special care is required around the sewing machine needle.
• Use the proper needle plate. The wrong plate can cause the needle to break.
• Do not use bent needles.
• Do not pull or push fabric while stitching. This may deflect the needle causing it to break.
• Wear safety glasses when operating the machine.
• Never operate the machine with any air openings blocked. Keep ventilation openings of the sewing machine and foot controller free from the accumulation of lint, dust, and loose cloth.

Setup

1. Unpacking and Placement

Carefully remove the machine from its packaging. Place the machine on a stable, level surface with adequate lighting. Ensure there is enough space for fabric handling.

2. Power Connection

• Connect the power cord to the machine's power input and then to a suitable electrical outlet.
• Connect the foot controller plug to the machine's foot controller jack.

3. Needle Installation

1. Turn the power switch OFF.
2. Loosen the needle clamp screw.
3. Insert a new needle with the flat side facing the back of the machine, pushing it up as far as it will go.
4. Tighten the needle clamp screw securely.

4. Bobbin Winding and Insertion

1. Place a spool of thread on the spool pin.
2. Follow the bobbin winding path indicated on the machine.
3. Place the empty bobbin onto the bobbin winder spindle and push it to the right.
4. Start the machine to wind the bobbin. Stop when full.
5. Open the bobbin cover plate.
6. Insert the wound bobbin into the bobbin case, ensuring the thread unwinds in the correct direction (usually counter-clockwise).
7. Pull the thread through the tension spring and guide it into the thread slot.
8. Replace the bobbin cover plate.

Figure 2: Top view of the Elna eXcellence 680+ with the top cover open, revealing the bobbin winding mechanism and upper threading guides. This view is essential for proper thread path setup.

5. Upper Thread Threading

1. Raise the presser foot lever.
2. Place a spool of thread on the spool pin.
3. Follow the numbered threading path indicated on the machine, guiding the thread through all tension discs and guides.
4. Thread the needle from front to back. Use the automatic needle threader if available.
5. Pull the bobbin thread up through the needle plate hole by turning the handwheel towards you to lower and raise the needle once.

Operating the Machine

1. Basic Controls

• Start/Stop Button: Press to start and stop sewing without the foot controller.
• Speed Control Slider: Adjusts the maximum sewing speed.
• Needle Up/Down Button: Raises or lowers the needle to its highest or lowest position.
• Reverse Button: Sews in reverse to secure stitches.
• Automatic Thread Cutter: Cuts both upper and bobbin threads.

2. Stitch Selection

The Elna eXcellence 680+ features an LCD screen and direct stitch selection buttons. Use the navigation buttons to browse through stitch categories and select your desired stitch. The screen will display recommended stitch length and width, which can be adjusted using the +/- buttons.

Figure 3: The Elna eXcellence 680+ with its top cover open, revealing the comprehensive stitch chart. This chart assists users in selecting from a wide range of available stitches.

3. Sewing Basics

1. Place fabric under the presser foot.
2. Lower the presser foot.
3. Select your desired stitch.
4. Begin sewing by pressing the foot controller or the Start/Stop button.
5. Guide the fabric gently. Do not force it.
6. At the end of a seam, press the reverse button to secure stitches, then press the automatic thread cutter button.

4. Using the Extension Table

The included extension table provides a larger work surface, which is particularly useful for quilting, larger projects, or when more support for fabric is needed. To attach, slide the extension table onto the free arm until it clicks into place. To remove, slide it off.

Figure 4: The Elna eXcellence 680+ Sewing Machine shown with the optional extension table attached, providing an expanded work area for larger sewing projects.

Maintenance

1. Cleaning

• Lint and Dust Removal: Regularly clean the bobbin area and feed dogs using the provided brush. Turn off and unplug the machine before cleaning.
• Needle Plate: Remove the needle plate to access and clean under the feed dogs.

2. Oiling

The Elna eXcellence 680+ is designed for minimal oiling. Refer to the full instruction manual for specific oiling points if required, or consult an authorized service center.

3. Needle Replacement

Replace the needle frequently, especially after 8-10 hours of sewing or if it becomes bent or dull. A fresh needle prevents skipped stitches and fabric damage. Follow the needle installation steps in the Setup section.

Troubleshooting

Specifications

• Brand: Elna
• Model: 680+
• Item Weight: 33.1 pounds
• Package Dimensions: 26.22 x 17.32 x 15.59 inches
• Is Electric: Yes
• UPC: 680479499637
• Date First Available: August 26, 2016

Warranty and Support

For detailed warranty information, please refer to the warranty card included with your purchase or visit the official Elna website. For technical support, service, or to purchase genuine Elna accessories, please contact your authorized Elna dealer or Elna customer service.

Note: Unauthorized repairs or modifications may void your warranty.