Don't know if there is a maintenance "schedule" for your machine, but certainly have it checked annually. Change needles often--at a minimum of 6-8 hours of use or when you hear a popping sound. Be advised that a ballpoint needle should be used for stretchy fabrics and a sharp needle should be used for woven fabrics and FSL. Use a heavier needle on heavier fabrics or very dense designs (same as in sewing).

You have found an awesome place to ask questions and receive very good answers. I think that your question might have already been answered, but wanted to say WELCOME. Enjoy the visit and come back often!

Thanks!!! I'm seeing this has been a great choice for me!!! I hope I can be helpful in the future :-)

Welcome to cute hugs from Canada!!!!

I posted some ideas about an hour ago---they did not show up----so maybe I deleted them or they just didn't get them here---find other embroiderers in your area and ask them who a DEPENDABLE repairperson is---I have a 780D which is very similar to your 770. I love Brother machines---they are affordable to many unlike other brands which are very expensive---I use only Schmetz embroidery needles--if you can get FlorianiSchmetz embroidery needles they are even better---do NOT use TITANIUM needles in embroidery machines---they can do a lot of damage---I purchase ONLY Brother hoops for Brother machines----other brands might say they will work but I would rather be safe than sorry---I get hoops at a good price from allbrands.com---it is based in Louisiand somewhere and they have a terrific on-line ordering system---fast and dependable service and items---I also use only Brother bobbin thread in my Brother machines---and i use Sulky or Floriani threads for embroidery---others may have others they use and have success---Floriani is my favorite---I hope this appears for you---I love the Cuties sites---I have learned SOOOO much and I know you will, too. God bless you.

Welcome to Cute! I did not read all the posts, however I am sure you got these basic questions answered and are ready to stitch! Yeah!

Hi, I love my Brother machine, have had it since I began machine embroidery about ten years ago. I have never taken it to a shop; just did gentle dusting in the bobbin area with a swab inside a tissue. The only problem I had was once the needle jammed and wouldn't go up or down and motor hummed loudly. I discovered that a loose thread had wrapped around the upper gears. I very carefully unscrewed the screw holding the cover (left side of machine over the needle), which exposed the gears. It took a few minutes, but I took tweezers as I snipped the wrapped threads and gently pulled the pieces out of the gears. Never had any problem since, that wasn't owner/operator error (ME)! LOL
I now have a commercial 15 needle machine, but still kept my Brother! I recommend the NEBS clear plastic pre-wound bobbins. Saves time in winding bobbins, and my machine likes them, no issues. I have used Madeira thread, like it, but Metro threads are much less expensive and vibrant colors. I purchase most of my stablilizers, bobbins, needles, etc. from www.allstitch.net. They have most reasonable prices and quick delivery. Also, www.kenssewingcenter.com is a very reputable online business with reasonable prices on hoops, machines, and related items.
There is a lot of trial and error to learn the best way to do machine embroidery. Relax, and enjoy your new craft adventure!!
Hugs, Angel

welcome!

Welcome to Cute. Have a flower! My machine is a Janome, so a bit different, but I was told on mine the most important maintenance was a drop of oil on the felt (below needle) every 2-3 projects and cleaning the bobbin area each time I change the bobbin, first with a brush, then with a bit of old t shirt to de-lint the area.

Hi Mrs. Tolhurst,

Firstly, a big Aussie welcome from me and secondly, I agree with AuntAnnie and would recommend having an annual service on your machine. I have a Brother Quattro Innovis Eye 6700D and absolutely love it. It prefers Brother bobbin thread, but I have used other threads. I change my needle about every 6-8 hours, or whenever it gets blunt. I prefer Schmetz needles, but have used Organ too.

Where do you live? The reason I ask is it depends on where you want to buy your hoops from. I also have a Husqvarna Designer 1 and I've bought a couple of generic hoops from Australia.

If you need to ask any question please do so as there is someone on here 24 hours a day. Love and blessings Chris, Newcastle, Australia.

Welcome to Cute and just keep asking the questions. And its much more fun taking part than lurking on the edge. I know that from experience

You have gotten some good answers so I'll just add my, "Welcome". I'm glad you are here. This is a very helpful group.

I see our Cuties have given you such great answers...so I will just say WELCOME TO CUTE!