1927 Singer Sewing Machine Manual

The 1927 Singer Sewing Machine is a classic treadle-operated sewing machine featuring cast iron construction, ornate decals, and reliable mechanical operation. This manual covers the model 66 with vibrating shuttle bobbin system, capable of straight stitching with adjustable stitch length, reverse stitching, and various presser feet attachments. Below are key sections for operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and historical information.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Machine Setup 3. Threading Instructions 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Adjustments 6. Needle and Bobbin 7. Stitching Techniques 8. Maintenance & Oil 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Cast iron body with gold decals, treadle mechanism, vibrating shuttle, tension discs, presser foot, stitch length regulator.

Feature	Description
Treadle mechanism	Foot-powered operation with iron stand
Vibrating shuttle	Classic bobbin system with brass shuttle
Stitch length regulator	Adjustable from 6-20 stitches per inch
Reverse stitching	Lever for back-tacking
Presser feet	Interchangeable for different fabrics
Tension control	Adjustable upper thread tension
Bobbin winder	Built-in spool winding mechanism
Needle clamp	Standard 15x1 needle system
Throat plate	Removable for bobbin access
Decorative decals	Gold and black ornate designs

Machine Setup

Assemble on stable wooden surface. Ensure treadle mechanism moves freely.

Position machine: Place on sturdy table or cabinet with proper clearance.
Install belt: Connect treadle wheel to machine handwheel with leather belt.
Oil points: Apply sewing machine oil to all moving parts before first use.
Test operation: Turn handwheel toward you to ensure smooth movement.

WARNING! Machine is heavy cast iron; lift with proper support. Keep fingers away from needle when operating.

Threading Instructions

Proper threading is essential for smooth operation.

Upper thread: From spool pin through tension discs, take-up lever, then needle.
Needle threading: Insert from front to back with flat side to the right.
Bobbin threading: Wind bobbin using built-in winder, insert in shuttle.
Bring up bobbin thread: Hold upper thread, turn handwheel to catch bobbin thread.

CAUTION! Always turn handwheel toward you only. Never force the mechanism.

Specifications

Model: Singer 66 (1927)
Stitch Type: Straight stitch only
Stitch Length: 6-20 stitches per inch
Bobbin System: Vibrating shuttle
Needle System: 15x1 standard
Power: Treadle operation
Weight: Approximately 30 lbs (machine head)
Materials: Cast iron with steel components
Thread: Standard cotton or polyester

Controls and Adjustments

Main controls: Stitch length regulator, tension control, reverse lever, presser foot lifter.

Stitch Length: Turn regulator knob for shorter/longer stitches. Tension: Turn tension dial clockwise for tighter, counter-clockwise for looser. Presser Foot Pressure: Adjust screw above foot for different fabric thickness. Reverse: Push lever down for back-stitching.

Needle and Bobbin

Needle replacement and bobbin winding procedures.

Needle replacement: Loosen needle clamp screw, remove old needle, insert new with flat side to right.
Bobbin winding: Place spool on pin, thread through tension spring, wrap around bobbin.
Shuttle loading: Open shuttle race, insert filled bobbin, pull thread through slot.
Thread tension: Adjust bobbin tension with small screw on shuttle.

Tip: Always use sharp needles and clean bobbins for best results.

Stitching Techniques

Basic sewing operations and special techniques.

Starting: Hold both threads, take 2-3 stitches forward then reverse.
Straight stitching: Guide fabric evenly under presser foot.
Curves: Slow treadle speed, pivot fabric at needle point.
Finishing: Reverse stitch 2-3 stitches, lift presser foot, pull fabric out.
Seam guides: Use throat plate markings for consistent seam allowances.
Gathering: Use long stitches (6-8 per inch) and pull bobbin thread.
Hemming: Fold fabric, use hemming foot attachment if available.

WARNING! Never sew over pins. Remove pins before they reach the needle.

Maintenance & Oil

Regular maintenance ensures smooth operation and longevity.

Daily: Brush out lint from bobbin area and feed dogs. Weekly: Oil all moving parts with sewing machine oil. Monthly: Clean and oil treadle mechanism. Oil Points: Needle bar, presser foot bar, bobbin shuttle race, tension assembly, treadle joints.

CAUTION! Use only sewing machine oil. Never use household oils which can gum up mechanisms.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Thread breaking	Incorrect threading/tension	Re-thread completely; adjust tension; check for burrs.
Skip stitches	Bent needle/wrong needle	Replace needle; ensure correct type; check needle position.
Bobbin thread bunching	Incorrect bobbin threading	Re-thread bobbin; check shuttle insertion; adjust bobbin tension.
Machine hard to turn	Lack of oil/thread jam	Oil all points; remove throat plate to clear jams.
Uneven stitches	Tension issues	Balance upper and lower tension; check for lint.

Professional Service: For major repairs, contact authorized Singer service center.

Parts: Original parts available through Singer dealers.