The LC1280XL driver often defaults to Letter (US) or A4 (International). In driver preferences → Advanced → Paper Size, set your default.
Gently wipe the small gold contact chip on the cartridge with a lint-free cloth. Static electricity or fingerprint oil can disrupt communication. brother lc1280xl driver
Brother also provides support for Linux through a convenient "Driver Install Tool". The LC1280XL driver often defaults to Letter (US)