Artistic SD-16 User manual

Arsc Quilter SD-16
User Manual

Page 2 Arsc Quilter SD-16 User Manual

ArscCreaveProducts.com Page 3
Table of Contents
Safety Secon ................................................................. 4
Quick Facts ................................................................... 5
Accessories Included in the Box .................................................. 8
Components (Front Side View) ................................................... 9
Components (Back Side View)................................................... 10
Components (Rear and Front Views) ............................................. 11
Seng Up the Table, Installing Table Overlay,Placing Machine in Table,
Installing Power Cord,Installing Foot Pedal ........................................ 12
Installing Thread Mast ......................................................... 13
Inserng Needle Needle/Thread Selecon Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Changing the Hopping Foot ..................................................... 15
Threading the Machine ........................................................ 16
Bobbin Case and Bobbin Thread Tension Adjustments ............................... 18
Maintenance ................................................................. 20
Using The Touch-screen Display ................................................. 21
Geng Started Quilng......................................................... 30
Correcng Common Issues ..................................................... 31
Bobbin Winding User Manual ................................................... 37
TruStch for Arsc User Manual ................................................ 51
Arsc Quilter SD-16 Registraon Informaon ..................................... 70

Page 4 Arsc Quilter SD-16 User Manual
Safety Secon
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules.
Operaon is subject to the following two condions:
(1) This device may not cause harmful interference,
and (2) this device must accept any interference
received, including interference that may cause
undesired operaon.
Please note: Do not operate your Arsc Quilter
SD-16 quilng machine unl you have completely
read the informaon contained in this manual. Please
keep all packaging and order informaon for warranty
purposes.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
Read all instrucons before using this machine.
When using this machine, basic safety precauons
should always be followed, including the following:
DANGER — To reduce the risk of
electric shock:
A quilng machine should never be le unaended
when plugged in. Always unplug the machine from
the electrical outlet immediately aer using and
before cleaning.
WARNING — To reduce the risk of burns,
re, electric shock, or injury to persons:
• The Arsc Quilter SD-16 is heavy. Never aempt
to li it alone. Always use two people when liing.
Always li from the throat of the machine, not
from the handlebars.
• Always unplug the Arsc Quilter SD-16 from
the electrical outlet when performing any
maintenance, changing the needle, removing
thread locks, or when le unaended.
• Do not unplug by pulling on cord. To unplug, grasp
the plug, not the cord.
• Keep ngers away from all moving parts. Use
cauon around the needle or sharp external
components.
• Change the needle oen. Do not use bent or dull
needles. “Every quilt deserves a new needle”.
• Switch the machine to the symbol o, or
0, posion to turn it o when making any
adjustments in the needle area, such as threading
needle, changing needle, threading bobbin,
changing hopping foot, and so forth.
• Never drop or insert foreign objects into any
opening.
• The Arsc Quilter SD-16 should only be used
indoors away from moisture.
• The Arsc Quilter SD-16 should not be stored or
used in extreme temperatures.
• Use the Arsc Quilter SD-16 only for its intended
use as described in this manual.
• To disconnect from the wall outlet, push the
switch to the o posion, then remove the plug
from outlet pulling from the plug, not the cord.
Never operate the Arsc Quilter SD-16 if the
cord is damaged or not working correctly. If a
mechanical or electrical problem is encountered,
return the Arsc Quilter SD-16 to the nearest
authorized service center or the manufacturer
for examinaon, repair, electrical, or mechanical
adjustment.
• It is not recommended that the Arsc Quilter
SD-16 quilng machine be used with any machine
quilng frame other than those recommended by
Arsc.
• Use this quilng machine only for its intended use
as described in this manual. Use only aachments
recommended by the manufacturer as contained
in this manual.
• Never operate the machine with any air openings
blocked. Keep venlaon openings of the
machine free from the accumulaon of lint, dust,
and loose cloth.
• Do not operate where aerosol (spray) products
are being used or where oxygen is being
administered.
• Do not pull or push the fabric excessively while
stching. It may deect the needle enough to
cause it to break.
• Use only needles designed for free moon
quilng and recommended by Arsc for this
machine. Other types of needles may be break
during normal quilng.
• Children shall not play with the machine. Close
aenon is necessary when this machine is used
by or near children.

ArscCreaveProducts.com Page 5
Quick Facts
The Arsc Quilter SD-16 ulizes high-tech electronics
and an innovave touch-pad user interface to oer
greater funconality and ease of operaon to home
quilters than ever before conceived in the quilng
industry. The Arsc Quilter SD-16 quilng machine is
a high quality machine that incorporates very robust
design features and is very easy to service.
Disclaimer
Arsc and its Representaves are in no way legally
responsible or liable for damage to the Arsc Quilter
SD-16 when used improperly or not in accordance with the
guidelines stated in this manual or when used on machine-
quilng tables not recommended by Arsc.
• This sewing machine may be used by children age 8
years and above and persons with reduced physical,
sensory, or mental capabilies or lack of experience
and knowledge if they have been given supervision
or instrucon concerning use of the machine in a
safe way and understand the hazards involved.
• Cleaning and user maintenance shall not be made
by children without supervision.
Save these instrucons.
This machine is intended for household and commercial use.
Disclaimer
Arsc and its Representaves are in no way legally
responsible or liable for damage to the Arsc Quilter
SD-16 when used improperly or not in accordance
with the guidelines stated in this manual or when
used on machine quilng frames not recommended
by Arsc.
To use the machine safely
Carefully watch the needle when sewing. Do not
touch the hand wheel, take up lever, needle, or other
moving parts.
Turn the machine o and unplug the cord in the
following cases: when you have stopped using the
machine when you replace or remove the needle or
any other part when you check or clean the machine
when you leave the machine unaended
Connect the machine directly to the wall outlet or to
a surge protector that connects directly to the wall
outlet. Do not use extension cords.
To increase the life of your machine
Do not store this machine in areas exposed to direct
sunlight or high humidity. Never use or store the
machine near a heater, an iron, a halogen lamp or
other hot things.
Use only neutral soaps or detergents to clean the
machine. Benzene, solvents and scouring powders
can damage the case and the machine and therefore
should never be used.
Do not drop or bump the machine.
Always consult the manual to replace or x the
hopping foot, needle or any other part of the
machine. If necessary contact an authorized
Arsc representave or Arsc technical support.
Throat Dimensions: 8.25” X 16” (245 mm X 610 mm)
Quilng Speed: Maximum: 1800 SPM
Needle System: 134 (135 X 7)
Needle Sizes: 12/80 - 20/125
Hook System: Rotary, Horizontal axis, M-class bobbin
Bobbin Type: Aluminum, Class M
Bobbin Case: Type MF
Motor Type: Brushless DC
Needle Posioning: Up and down, eo stch
Electrical Power:
US/Canada: 105 – 120 VAC, 47-63Hz, 300W peak
Rest of world: 100 – 250 VAC, 47-63Hz, 300W peak
*Tested and cered to UL 1594 and CSA 22.2 #68 as well
as internaonal standards for sewing machine safety.
LED Power Consumpon: 2.25W
Hopping Foot Stroke/Li: 5mm
Foot Pedal: Model QT00745 Only
Needle Bar Stroke: 35.3 mm
Take-Up Stroke: 73 mm
Lubricaon, main components: Kluber Lube, permanent
Lubricaon of hook: Velocite 10, Texaco 22

Page 6 Arsc Quilter SD-16 User Manual
Consignes de sécurité
Cet appareil est conforme à la pare 15 de la réglementaon
de la FCC. Son fonconnement est soumis aux deux condions
suivantes : (1) cet appareil ne doit pas causer d’interférences
nuisibles, et
(2) cet appareil doit accepter toute interférence reçue, y compris
les interférences pouvant provoquer un fonconnement
indésirable.
Veuillez noter : n’ulisez pas votre machine à quilter AQ SD-
16 avant d’avoir lu enèrement les informaons contenues
dans ce manuel. Veuillez conserver tous les emballages et les
informaons de commande à des ns de garane.
CONSIGNES DE SÉCURITÉ
IMPORTANTES
Lisez toutes les consignes avant d’uliser la machine. Lorsque
vous ulisez cee machine, vous devez toujours prendre des
précauons de sécurité de base, notamment ce qui suit :
DANGER — Pour réduire le risque de choc électrique : Une
machine à quilter ne doit jamais être laissée sans surveillance
lorsqu’elle est branchée. Débranchez toujours la machine de
la prise électrique immédiatement après usage et avant de la
neoyer.
AVERTISSEMENT — Pour réduire le risque de brûlures,
d’incendie, de choc électrique ou de blessures :
• La AQ SD-16 est très lourde. Ne jamais tenter de la soulever
seul. Ulisez toujours deux personnes pour la soulever. Soulevez
toujours la machine à parr de la gorge, non pas à parr des
poignées.
• Débranchez toujours la AQ SD-16 de la prise électrique lors des
travaux d’entreen, du changement d’aiguille, de la suppression
des blocages de l, ou lorsqu’elle est laissée sans surveillance.
• Ne pas débrancher en rant sur le cordon. Pour débrancher,
saisir la che, non le cordon.
• N’approchez pas les doigts des pares mobiles. Faites preuve
de prudence lorsque vous vous approchez de l’aiguille ou de
composants externes tranchants.
• Changez souvent d’aiguille. N’ulisez pas d’aiguilles tordues ou
émoussées. « Chaque quilt mérite une nouvelle aiguille ».
• Meez la machine sur la posion 0 ou de symbole d’arrêt pour
l’éteindre lorsque vous eectuez des réglages dans la zone de
l’aiguille : enlage de l’aiguille, changement d’aiguille, bobinage
de la canee, changement de pied, etc.
• Ne faites jamais tomber et n’insérez jamais d’objets étrangers
dans une ouverture.
• La AQ SD-16 doit être ulisée uniquement à l’intérieur dans un
endroit non humide.
• La AQ SD-16 ne doit pas être rangée ou ulisée à des
températures extrêmes.
• Ulisez la AQ SD-16 uniquement pour son usage prévu indiqué
dans ce manuel.
• Pour débrancher la machine de la prise murale, meez
l’interrupteur sur arrêt, puis rerez la che de la prise en rant
à parr de la che et non du cordon. N’ulisez jamais la AQ
SD-16 si le cordon est endommagé ou ne fonconne pv as
correctement. En cas de problème mécanique ou électrique,
renvoyez la AQ SD-16 au centre de service agréé le plus
proche ou au fabricant pour inspecon, réparaon, ou réglage
électrique ou mécanique.
• Il est déconseillé d’uliser la machine à quilng AQ SD-16 avec
un cadre de machine à quilter autre que ceux recommandés par
Arsc.
• Ulisez cee machine à quilter uniquement pour l’usage prévu
décrit dans ce manuel. Ulisez uniquement les accessoires
recommandés par le fabricant décrits dans ce manuel.
• Ne jamais uliser la machine si des ouvertures d’air sont
bloquées. Gardez les ouvertures de venlaon de la machine
exemptes d’accumulaon de peluches, poussières et morceaux
de ssu.
• Ne pas uliser là où des aérosols (vaporisateurs) sont ulisés
ou de l’oxygène est administré.
• Ne pas rer ni pousser trop fort la machine sur le ssu lors de
l’exécuon des points. Cela pourrait provoquer une déviaon de
l’aiguille et en entraîner la fracture.
• N’ulisez que les aiguilles conçues pour le quilng en piqué
libre et recommandées par Arsc pour cee machine. D’autres
types d’aiguilles risqueraient de se fracturer au cours d’un
quilng normal.
• Ne pas laisser les enfants jouer avec la machine. Une aenon
parculière est nécessaire lorsque cee machine est ulisée par
ou à proximité d’enfants.
• Cee machine peut être ulisée par des enfants de 8 ans
et plus, ainsi que par des personnes aeintes d’un décit
physique, sensoriel ou mental, peu expérimentées ou ayant
peu de connaissances, à condion que ces personnes reçoivent
les instrucons de sécurité et la supervision nécessaires à
l’ulisaon de la machine et qu’elles comprennent les risques
encourus.
• Les travaux de maintenance et de neoyage ne peuvent pas
être eectués par des enfants sans supervision.

ArscCreaveProducts.com Page 7
Conservez ces consignes.
Cee machine est desnée à un usage domesque et
commercial.
Averssement
Arsc et ses représentants ne sont en aucun cas juridiquement
responsables des dommages causés à la AQ SD-16 lorsque
celle-ci est ulisée de manière inadéquate ou non conforme aux
consignes énoncées dans ce manuel ou lorsqu’elle est ulisée sur
des cadres de machine à quilter non recommandés par Arsc.
Pour uliser la machine en toute
sécurité
Surveillez aenvement l’aiguille lors de la couture. Ne touchez
pas le volant, le levier de releveur, l’aiguille ou d’autres pièces
mobiles.
Meez la machine hors tension et débranchez le cordon dans les
cas suivants : lorsque vous cessez d’uliser la machine, lorsque
vous remplacez ou rerez l’aiguille ou toute autre pièce, lorsque
vous vériez ou neoyez la machine lorsque vous laissez la
machine sans surveillance.
Branchez la machine directement à la prise murale ou à un
parasurtenseur qui se branche directement à la prise murale. Ne
pas uliser de rallonges.
Pour augmenter la durée de vie de votre machine.
Ne pas ranger cee machine dans des endroits exposés à la
lumière directe du soleil ou à une forte humidité. Ne jamais
uliser ni ranger la machine à proximité d’un radiateur, d’un fer à
repasser, d’une lampe halogène ou d’autres objets brûlants.
Ulisez uniquement des savons ou détergents neutres pour
neoyer la machine. Le benzène, les solvants et les poudres
à récurer peuvent endommager le boîer et la machine et ne
doivent donc jamais être ulisés.
Ne pas faire tomber ou cogner la machine.
Consultez toujours le manuel pour remplacer ou réparer le
pied, l’aiguille ou toute autre pièce de la machine. Si nécessaire,
contactez un représentant Arsc agréé ou l’assistance
technique Arsc.
Spécicaons
La AQ SD-16 ulise de l’électronique de pointeet une interface
ulisateur innovante à base de pavé tacle an d’orir aux
quilteuses à domicile un niveau de fonconnalités et une facilité
d’ulisaon inégalés dans l’industrie du quilng. La machine à
quilter AQ SD-16 est une machine de grande qualité qui intègre
des foncons de concepon très robustes et qui est très facile à
entretenir.
Dimensions de la gorge: 245 mm X 610 mm (8,25” X 16”)
Vitesse de quilng: Maximum : 1500 PPM
Système d’aiguille: 134 (135 X 7)
Tailles d’aiguille: 12/80 - 20/125
Système de crochet: Rotaf, axe horizontal, canee de classe M
Type de canee: Aluminium, classe M
Boîer de canee: Type MF
Type de moteur: Sans balais à c.c.
Posionnement de l’aiguille: En haut et en bas, point d’arrêt
Alimentaon électrique :
États-Unis/Canada*: 105 – 120 V c.a., 47-63 Hz, crête de 300 W
Reste du monde: 100 – 250 V c.a., 47-63 Hz, crête de 300 W
* Conforme aux cercaons internaonales
Consommaon électrique de l’éclairage LED: 2,25 W
Course / Levée du pied: 5 mm
Pédale: Modèle QT00745 Seulement
Course de la barre d’aiguille: 35,3 mm
Course du releveur: 73 mm
Lubricaon, principaux composants: Lubriant Kluber,
permanent
Lubricaon du crochet: Velocite 10, Texaco 22
Averssement
Arsc et ses représentants ne sont en aucun cas
juridiquement responsables des dommages causés à la AQ
SD-16 lorsque celle-ci est ulisée de manière inadéquate ou
non conforme aux consignes énoncées dans ce manuel ou
lorsqu’elle est ulisée sur des tables de machine à quilter
non recommandées par Arsc

Page 8 Arsc Quilter SD-16 User Manual
Oponal U.S. Grounding for Customers with 120 VAC Connecons
GROUNDED OUTLET BOXES
METAL
SCREW
ADAPTER
(B) (C)
TAB FOR
GROUNDING
SCREW
(A)
GROUNDING PIN
This product is for use on a nominal 120 V or nominal 220 V circuit, and has a grounding plug that looks like
the plug illustrated in sketch A above. A temporary adapter, which looks like the adapter illustrated in sketches
B and C, may be used to connect this plug to a 2-pole receptacle as shown in sketch B if a properly grounded
outlet is not available. The temporary adapter should be used only unl a properly grounded outlet can be
installed by a qualied electrician. The green colored rigid ear, lug, and the like, extending from the adapter,
must be connected to a permanent ground such as a properly grounded outlet box cover. Whenever the
adapter is used, it must be held in place by the metal screw.
ÂIMPORTANT: In Canada, the use of a temporary adapter is not permied by the Canadian Electric Code.
To repair or adjust the machine
If the machine breaks down or needs adjustment, rst check the troubleshoong chart in the appendix to
inspect and adjust the machine yourself.
For more product informaon and updates, visit our website at www.arsccreaveproducts.com.
The contents of this manual and product specicaons are subject to change without prior noce.
• TruStch Stch Regulator
• Table Overlay (in table box)
• Lint brush
• Bobbins (4 pieces)
• Needle (134 R) size 16 (pack of 10)
• Needle (134 R) size 18 (pack of 10)
• Bobbin Case
• Thread stand and thread mast
• Pen Oiler
• Screwdriver (for bobbin case)
• Power Cord
• 2 mm hex tool
• 3 mm hex tool
• 8 mm wrench
• 3/32” hex tool
• Open-toe foot (Ruler foot installed)
• Bobbin Winder and accessories
• User manual
• Sample Thread Pack
Arsc Quilter SD-16 Accessories Included in the box:

ArscCreaveProducts.com Page 9
1. Thread Mast
2. Thread Guide A
3. Three-Hole Thread Guide B
4. Thread Guide C
5. Top Thread Tension Assembly
6. Srrup Thread Guide E
7. Take-Up Lever
8. Thread Guide F
9. Front Casing/Frame
10. Hand Wheel
Arsc Quilter SD-16 Components
Front Side View
Figure 1
Components Not Idened
Because the Arsc Quilter SD-16 is upgradeable to a
stand-up frame quilng system, there are components
found on the machine that are not used for sit-down
machine quilng (such as threaded holes for handlebars).
9
5
4
8
6
3
7
1
2
10

Page 10 Arsc Quilter SD-16 User Manual
18. Take-up Lever Guard
19. Back Casing/Frame
20. Threaded Horizontal Spool Pin Mounng Hole
11. Needle Bar
12. Needle Bar Thread Guide
13. Needle
14. Ruler Foot
15. Needle Plate
16. Feet mount
17. Presser Bar
Back Side View
Figure 2
11
12
13
14
15
16
19
17
18
20

ArscCreaveProducts.com Page 11
21. On/O Switch
22. Power Cord Connector
23. Foot Pedal Connector
24. Spool Pins
Rear and Front Views
25. Fuse
26. Bobbin Assembly
27. LED Light Ring
Rear Front
Figure 3
22
23
25
24
27
21
26

Page 12 Arsc Quilter SD-16 User Manual
Seng Up the Table (and Taking it
Down for Storage)
Check that the On/O switch (page 11, Figure 3, #24) is
turned o (the 0 seng). Plug the power cord into the
top power outlet on the back of the machine (Figure 4).
Do not plug the power cord into a power source at
this me.
Installing the Power Cord
1. Plug in the foot pedal cord end into the foot pedal
connector (see page 11, Figure 3, #27).
2. Place the foot pedal under the table where operator
can reach it from the front of the machine.
1. Remove the protecve cover from the tape on one side
only of the table overlay.
2. Slide the table overlay (with the tape-side down) under
the Arsc Quilter hopping foot and align the overlay
while holding up the side with the exposed tape.
3. When the overlay is in posion, press down the side
of the overlay with the exposed tape, making sure the
overlay is sll posioned properly.
4. With one side aached to the table, li the opposite
side of the overlay and remove the protecve cover
from the tape. Press down to aach to the table.
5. Repeat with the tape at the front of the overlay.
6. Ensure the overlay is securely aached to the table,
adjusng as needed.
NO TE: If the Arsc Quilter must be removed aer the
table overlay is installed, li the machine upward at
the back a couple of inches so the needle plate drops
below the table overlay. Then proceed to pull out the
Arsc Quilter from the back of the table.
The Arsc Quilter SD-16 table has been designed to
accommodate the Arsc Quilter SD-16 machine. It
has folding legs that are height-adjustable and is heavy
enough to provide stabilizaon for quilng at high speeds.
1. Open the box and gently remove the table, taking care
not to drop the table on the oor. The table weighs
nearly 50 pounds, so it is recommended that you ask
someone to help.
2. Unfold the legs, pulling on the horizontal braces unl
the legs snap into place. Set the table upright.
3. Make the table taller by pinching the two height-
adjustment tabs on each set of legs and liing on table,
while holding legs down with foot. Make the table
shorter by pinching the same tabs and pushing down on
the table.
4. To store the table, remove machine and return legs to
their lowest posion.
5. The legs are aached to the table top with brackets
of two dierent sizes. One is longer than the other.
Idenfy the long and the short leg brackets.
6. Fold in the short bracket leg rst. Push on the horizontal
braces to loosen the legs and push them back toward
the table top.
7. Repeat with the long bracket leg.
Installing the Foot Pedal
Arsc Quilter Table Overlay
Installaon Instrucons
Placing the Machine in the Table
1. We recommend having someone help li and place
the machine.
2. Li the machine by pung one arm through the
throat space.
3. Guide the machine from the back of the table into the
slot. Machine is posioned correctly when the back of
the machine is ush with the back of the table.
Figure 4

ArscCreaveProducts.com Page 13
1. Locate the threaded hole on top of the machine near
the rear by the hand wheel.
2. The thread mast comes with a washer and a nut.
Remove the nut and washer, replace the nut onto the
mast for two or three turns.
3. The washer protects the painted surface when the nut
is ghtened. Place the washer on the hole and insert
the thread mast.
4. Turn the thread mast clockwise several revoluons,
stopping when the mast eyelets are posioned directly
over the spool pins.
5. Tighten the nut to secure the mast to the machine.
Installing the Thread Mast
Note: The eyelets of the thread mast MUST be centered
over the spool pins. This ensures that the cone of thread
will not pull, turn or lt, which will cause thread tension
problems (see Figure 5).
Figure 5

Page 14 Arsc Quilter SD-16 User Manual
Needle Size
12 (80)
14 (90)
16 (100)
18 (110)
20 (120)
Inserng (or Changing) the Needle
Figure 6
The needle that is in the machine when it arrives at
your home has been used for 20 minutes of tesng. It is
possible that it could be damaged in shipping or as you
remove the machine from the box. For these reasons,
Arsc recommends that you replace the needle before
beginning to quilt with your new machine.
1. Move the needle bar to the highest posion by turning
the hand wheel.
2. Conrm that the power is o and that the machine is
unplugged.
3. Loosen the needle-bar clamp thumb screw (see
Figure 7) enough to assure that the needle can be
inserted all the way up to the top of the sight hole.
4. With the scarf (small ground out secon/dip on the back
side of the needle just above the needle eye) facing the
hand wheel end of the machine, and the long groove
down the front of the needle facing the bobbin case
side (see Figure 6), push the needle all the way up into
the needle bar – unl it can go no further. Look into the
sight hole to verify that the bu of the needle reaches
the top of the sight hole.
5. Carefully ghten the thumb screw. Over-ghtening the
thumb screw will result in damaged threads or stripping
of the screw hole. Stripped holes are not covered under
warranty. To avoid over-ghtening the screw, nger-
ghten only.
Note: Changing the needle is recommended for each
new quilt loaded on the machine or any me the needle
becomes bent, dull or burred.
Needles are inexpensive and are important to the success
of your project. Plan to change needles every 5-7 hours of
quilng or more oen if working with a lot of fusibles or
heavy materials.
Needle/Thread Selecon Guide
Threads
Monolament, 100 wt. Silk,
60 wt. poly, mylar
Silk (100 wt) 60 wt., monolament,
glier, some metallics
60 wt., 50 wt., 40 wt., monolament,
glier, metallics
50 wt., 40 wt., 30 wt., metallic
30 wt., 20 wt., 12 wt.
SIGHT
HOLE
CAUTION: Your Arsc machine stches at a much
faster speed than your home sewing machine.
Therefore it is essenal that the needle is rmly
seated in the needle bar and fully ghtened (but not
over ghtened). Check oen that the needle has not
become loose. If the needle comes loose, it could
break in the machine causing damage, throw o the
machine’s ming, or worse, cause bodily harm.

ArscCreaveProducts.com Page 15
Changing the Hopping Feet
Your machine comes with
two hopping feet: a ruler
foot and an open-toe foot.
Use the ruler foot for ruler
work and everyday quilng,
and the open-toe foot when
you need greater stch
visibility (such as micro
quilng).
1. Remove the foot that is
on the mount by using
the 2.5mm Allen wrench
to loosen the mounng
screw far enough that
you can slide the foot o
of the mount.
2. Slide the desired foot
onto the mount (Figure
7). Note that the opening
on the side of the foot is
lined up with the screw
hole. Push the foot up as
far as it will go.
3. Ensure the middle of the
foot opening is centered
with the needle when
the foot is fully ghtened
with the 2.5mm Allen wrench. If it isn’t properly
centered, loosen the lock nut; center the foot with the
needle; hold the foot in posion; and rmly ghten the
lock nut (Figure 8).
Figure 7
Figure 8

Page 16 Arsc Quilter SD-16 User Manual
1. Place a cone or spool of thread on the spool pin. If using
a spool, make sure that the slits on the spool are against
the base of the spool pin holder. Pass the thread through
the thread-mast eyelet from back to front, connuing to
thread guide A. (Figure 10)
2. Connue to the three-hole thread guide B. Beginning
at the top, wrap all three holes from back to front, hand
wheel side to needle side (see Figure 9).
Note: The purpose of the three-hole thread guide B is
to prevent loops of thread coming o the thread cone
from going into the top tension as a knot causing thread
breakage and bad tension. For most threads on a cone, it
is important to thread all three holes for consistent results
and to make adjustments at the top tension assembly. An
excepon to this rule is when working with very delicate
threads, such as holographic or threads that are prone to
breakage. You may try skipping one or two holes on thread
guide B when using these threads.
Figure 9
DETAIL 1
Threading the Machine
Take Up Spring
Tension Assembly
FRONT
BACK
A
B
B
Figure 10

ArscCreaveProducts.com Page 17
BACK
3. Thread connues through thread guide C, and then
down to the tension assembly (see Figure 11).
NOTE: It is important that the thread is “ossed” up
between the two tension discs. If the thread is not rmly
in place between the two tension discs, the thread rests
on the outside of the tension discs (without tension) and
looping on fabric or thread nests may occur.
4. Once the thread is in place, be sure that the thread
catches on the take-up spring and then pull it down
under the srrup (thread guide D).
5. Bring the thread back up through the take-up lever from
back to front, and then down through thread guide E.
Pull the thread at the take-up lever to ensure that it
is properly ossed between the tension discs. If it is
properly ossed in the tension disks you should feel
some resistance as you pull the thread. If it is not, then
the thread will pull freely.
6. Pull the thread down to the needle thread guide and
thread through the hole (thread guide F).
7. Make sure the thread is following the groove down
the front of the needle and threads from front to back.
Be careful that the thread does not twist around
the needle.
IMPORTANT NOTE: The Arsc Quilter SD-16 quilng
machine does not have a presser foot lever or top tension
release like a home sewing machine. On a home sewing
machine the top tension is released when the presser
foot is raised, allowing the thread to come freely out of
the machine. When a home machine is threaded, the
presser foot is raised and the tension discs are released
and open for the thread to easily fall between the tension
discs. This is not the case with the Arsc Quilter SD-16
quilng machine where the top tension is always ght and
the tension discs are never open. Therefore, the thread
must be pulled up or “ossed” between the tension discs
or it will stay outside the discs and oat without tension,
causing serious stch problems and/or thread nests. It is
also possible to bend the needle while it is threaded if care
is not taken while moving the machine around the quilt
because the top tension is never released.
DETAIL 2
Figure 11

Page 18 Arsc Quilter SD-16 User Manual
Inserng the Bobbin
Note: Turn o the power switch while inserng the bobbin
case or anyme your hands are near the needle area.
1. Place the bobbin in the bobbin case so that the thread
pulls o clockwise when viewing the open side
(Figure 12).
2. Slide the thread through the slot (Figure 13) and under
the tension spring leaving 5-6 inches of thread hanging
loose (Figures 14 and 15).
Bobbin and Thread Tension Adjustments
Figure 12
Figure 13
3. To insert the bobbin case into the machine, grasp the
bobbin case with thumb and rst nger. Do not li the
lever on bobbin case. Fit the bobbin case onto the hook
spindle in the machine. Rotate the case unl the open
throat keys into the alignment notch in the middle of the
hook. Push the case in unl it stops in place. Push the
case inward further unl it clicks (see Figure 15). Allow
the thread end to hang freely.
NOTE: Pulling out the latch lever pushes the bobbin
forward in the bobbin case, aiding in removal of the
bobbin. The lever should be used only for removing the
bobbin case from the machine.
Figure 14
Figure 15
TENSION
SPRING

ArscCreaveProducts.com Page 19
Drawing the Bobbin Thread to the Top of
the Quilt
1. Aer threading the machine, plug it in and turn on the
power. Place quilt sandwich under hopping foot.
2. While rmly holding the tail of the needle thread with
the le hand, choose one of the following methods to
cycle the needle through one full rotaon to bring the
bobbin thread to the top of the quilt.
A. Foot Pedal Method. LIGHTLY tap the foot pedal to
make the needle go down. Then LIGHTLY tap again to
bring the needle up.
B. Needle Up/Down Buon Half-Stch. Find the Needle
Up/Down Buon in the center of the color touch-
screen main display. Press once to cycle the needle
down. Press again to cycle the needle back up.
C. Needle Up/Down Buon, Full-Stch. Find the Needle
Up/Down Buon in the center of the color touch-
screen main display. Press and hold briey to cycle the
needle through one complete stch cycle (down and
back up).
3. Pull the fabric 3-4 inches away while holding the
needle thread.
4. Bobbin thread will pull up and through to the top,
allowing you to grasp the loop and pull it to the
desired length.
Figure 16
IMPORTANT NOTE: Top thread tension should be adjusted
only aer the bobbin case foundaon tension adjustment
is made.
Puckering, gathers and thread breakage occur when the
top tension is too ght. Loops and thread nests occur on
the back when the top thread tension is too loose.
(See Figure 17 on next page.) Tension may need to be
adjusted, depending on the fabric, thread or bang used
in each project.
As you change the top tension, the value in the tension
indicator box on the Main screen increases or decreases in
increments of ve. When you are happy with the tension,
note the top tension value for that type of thread (brand,
weight, and color) so you can quickly and easily set the
tension when you use this thread again in the future.
Unlike the bobbin case adjustment, which requires
minute adjustments, the top tension knob may require
turns anywhere from 1/4 of a turn to two to four turns to
achieve balanced tension.
Tension Adjustment
Checking and Adjusng Bobbin Case Tension
The bobbin case tension is the foundaon tension for the
enre machine. To test that bobbin tension is correct, hold
the bobbin case in the palm of your hand with the open
end facing up. Wrap the thread around your index nger
and li the bobbin case from your hand. While gently
moving the nger front to back (not up and down, which is
not consistent), the bobbin case should slide slowly down
the thread, like a spider on its web.
The small screw in the center of the tension spring is
where the adjustment is made (see Figure 16). Turn
clockwise to ghten and counter-clockwise to loosen the
bobbin case tension. Make very small adjustments. Check
the bobbin tension every me a new bobbin is inserted.
Tighten Bobbin Case Tension
The bobbin case tension is TOO LOOSE if it will not li
up onto its side. Turn screw clockwise to ghten. The
bobbin case screw requires very small adjustments.
Think of the “ck of a clock”. Adjust, then check. Adjust
and check again.
Loosen Bobbin Case Tension
The bobbin case tension is TOO TIGHT if it lis out of your
hand. Turn screw counterclockwise to loosen. The bobbin
case screw requires very small adjustments. Think of the
cks of a clock. Adjust, then check. Adjust and check again.

Page 20 Arsc Quilter SD-16 User Manual
Tighten Top Thread Tension
To adjust the top tension ghter, turn the top thread
tension knob (page 9, Figure 1, #5) clockwise.
Loosen Top Thread Tension
To loosen the tension, turn the top thread tension knob
(page 9, Figure 1, #5) counter-clockwise.
NOTE: Before adjusng the top tension, remember to oss
or pull the top thread up into the tension discs or it will
oat outside the discs providing lile or no top tension.
This could cause signicant tension or nesng problems on
the boom side of the quilt. If the top tension is too loose
(causing loops of thread on the underside of the quilt)
and no amount of ghtening the top thread tension knob
seems to aect it, there’s a good chance that the thread
is riding on the outside of the tension discs and is not
“ossed” between them.
NOTE: Turn o the machine and remove the power cord
when performing maintenance on the machine.
Cleaning and Lubricang the Machine
Only use light sewing machine oil in the Arsc
Quilter SD-16. Internal oiling is not necessary on the
Arsc Quilter SD-16 except when the machine is taken to
a service technician for roune maintenance and cleaning.
Maintenance
Figure 17
The hook assembly, however, needs regular lubricang.
Failure to keep the hook assembly lubricated can cause
severe damage to the machine.
To lubricate, turn o the machine. Remove the bobbin and
case before oiling. Clean around the hook assembly with
a so brush to remove lint. Put a very small drop of oil on
the hook in the region where the bobbin basket assembly
and the rotang hook meet (see Figure 18). The bobbin
basket is the poron of the hook that the bobbin case
snaps into. The bobbin basket remains staonary while
the hook rotates around the basket. The oil lubricates the
region where these two components interlock. A drop of
oil in the region indicated will work its way back into the
interlocking area of the hook and bobbin basket.
The frequency of lubricaon depends upon the usage of
the machine. Lubricang is recommended before running
the machine if it has not been used regularly, or every
other bobbin change if used frequently. Aer oiling, always
stch through a scrap piece of fabric, as oil may cling to
thread. Over-oiling can cause excess dripping from the
bobbin assembly. Lack of lubricant may be noced by a
change in the sound of the machine and will aect
stch quality.
Cleaning the Touch-Screen Display
Use a so rag dampened with isopropyl alcohol to gently
wipe the display and remove any marks. Never use
any other chemicals to clean your display as they may
adversely aect the touch-screen response and clarity.
6
Having set the bobbin thread tension properly, and the
top thread looks like Diagram A:
Problem: The top thread is too tight.
Solution: Loosen the top thread tension discs.
Having set the bobbin thread tension properly, and the
top thread looks like DiagramB:
Problem: The top thread is too loose.
Solution: Loosen the top thread tension discs.
Diagram A
Diagram B
Tight Top Thread
Loose Top Thread
A stch is balanced when the
top thread and the bobbin
thread meet in the middle of
the quilt sandwich.
Figure 18