1937 Singer Sewing Machine Manual

The 1937 Singer Sewing Machine is a classic mechanical sewing machine featuring cast iron construction, hand-crank or treadle operation, straight stitch capability, adjustable stitch length, tension control, bobbin winding system, and various presser feet attachments. This manual covers operation, maintenance, threading, troubleshooting, and care instructions for this vintage model.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Machine Setup 3. Threading Instructions 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Adjustments 6. Stitch Settings 7. Maintenance & Oil Points 8. Accessories & Attachments 9. Care & Cleaning 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Cast iron body, hand wheel, tension discs, needle bar, presser foot, bobbin case, shuttle mechanism, stitch length regulator.

Feature	Description
Hand Wheel	Manual operation control
Tension Discs	Upper thread tension adjustment
Needle Bar	Holds and moves sewing needle
Presser Foot	Holds fabric in place during sewing
Bobbin Case	Holds lower thread bobbin
Shuttle Mechanism	Forms lockstitch with upper thread
Stitch Length Regulator	Adjusts stitch spacing
Thread Guide	Directs thread path
Throat Plate	Needle opening and feed dog cover
Treadle Connection	For foot-powered operation

Machine Setup

Unpack and inspect all components. Place on stable table or sewing cabinet.

Position machine: Ensure stable surface with adequate working space.
Install needle: Loosen needle clamp screw, insert needle with flat side to rear, tighten screw.
Wind bobbin: Follow bobbin winding procedure in threading section.
Oil machine: Apply sewing machine oil to all designated points before first use.

WARNING! Machine is heavy; lift with proper technique. Keep fingers away from needle during operation.

Threading Instructions

Proper threading is essential for smooth operation.

Upper threading: From spool pin through tension discs, take-up lever, to needle eye.
Bobbin winding: Place empty bobbin on winder, thread through tension, engage winder.
Bobbin insertion: Open shuttle cover, insert bobbin in case with thread unwinding clockwise.
Thread drawing: Hold upper thread, turn hand wheel to bring up bobbin thread.

CAUTION! Always turn hand wheel toward you. Never force the mechanism.

Specifications

Machine Type: Mechanical lockstitch
Stitch Type: Straight stitch only
Stitch Length: Adjustable 0-4mm
Needle System: 15x1 household needles
Bobbin Type: Class 66 metal bobbins
Tension: Manual disc tension control
Presser Feet: Standard, zipper, buttonhole attachments available
Construction: Cast iron with black japanning finish
Operation: Hand crank or treadle powered

Controls and Adjustments

Main controls: Hand wheel, stitch length regulator, tension dial, presser foot lifter.

Stitch Length: Turn regulator for shorter/longer stitches. Lower numbers = shorter stitches.

Tension: Turn tension dial clockwise to increase, counterclockwise to decrease. Proper tension shows balanced stitches on both fabric sides.

Presser Foot Pressure: Fixed pressure suitable for medium-weight fabrics.

Stitch Settings

Straight stitch only with adjustable length.

Basic stitching: Set stitch length to 2.5mm for general sewing.
Basting: Set to maximum length (4mm) for temporary stitches.
Reinforcing: Set to minimum length (0mm) for strong seams.
Gathering: Long stitch length with tension slightly increased.

Tip: Test stitch settings on fabric scrap before sewing project.

Maintenance & Oil Points

Regular maintenance ensures longevity and smooth operation.

Daily oiling: Apply 1-2 drops of sewing machine oil to needle bar, presser bar, take-up lever.
Weekly oiling: Oil shuttle race, bobbin case area, hand wheel bearing.
Monthly cleaning: Remove lint from bobbin area, feed dogs, tension discs.
Annual service: Complete disassembly and cleaning recommended.

WARNING! Use only high-quality sewing machine oil. Never use household oils.

Accessories & Attachments

Standard accessories: Screwdriver, extra needles, bobbins, lint brush.

Optional attachments: Zipper foot, buttonhole foot, hemming guide, seam guide.

Care & Cleaning

Wipe exterior with soft dry cloth. Clean lint from bobbin area after each use.

CAUTION! Do not use water or cleaning solvents. Keep machine covered when not in use.

Warranty Information

Original warranty expired. Singer Manufacturing Company, established 1851. For historical reference only. Replacement parts may be available through vintage sewing machine suppliers.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Thread breaking	Incorrect threading/tension	Rethread completely; adjust tension; check for burrs on needle.
Skip stitches	Bent needle/wrong needle	Replace needle; ensure correct needle type; check needle insertion.
Bobbin thread bunching	Incorrect bobbin threading	Remove and rethread bobbin; check bobbin case spring.
Machine hard to turn	Lack of oil/thread jam	Oil all points; remove bobbin case and clean; check for thread tangled in shuttle.
Uneven feed	Lint under feed dogs	Clean feed dog area; check presser foot pressure.

Note: These machines were built to last generations with proper care.

Service: Consult vintage sewing machine specialist for major repairs.