The 1938 Singer Sewing Machine is a classic mechanical sewing device featuring cast iron construction, manual treadle operation, straight stitch capability, adjustable stitch length, built-in bobbin winder, tension control, presser foot adjustments, and various attachments for specialized sewing tasks. This vintage machine operates without electricity using foot pedal power and requires regular oiling and maintenance. Below are key sections for operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and historical information.
Key components: Cast iron body, treadle mechanism, hand wheel, bobbin case, presser foot, tension discs, needle bar, feed dogs, shuttle mechanism.
| Component | Description |
|---|---|
| Treadle | Foot-powered pedal for machine operation |
| Hand Wheel | Manual control for precise needle positioning |
| Bobbin Case | Holds lower thread shuttle |
| Presser Foot | Holds fabric in place during sewing |
| Tension Discs | Controls upper thread tension |
| Needle Bar | Holds and moves sewing needle |
| Feed Dogs | Moves fabric through machine |
| Stitch Length Lever | Adjusts stitch spacing |
| Bobbin Winder | Winds thread onto bobbins |
| Shuttle Mechanism | Creates lockstitch with bobbin thread |
Assemble on stable wooden cabinet or table surface.
WARNING! Machine is heavy cast iron; use proper lifting technique. Ensure cabinet is stable to prevent tipping.
Begin with proper threading and fabric preparation.
CAUTION! Keep fingers away from moving needle. Always raise needle when not sewing.
Manual controls located on machine body for precision sewing.
Primary Controls: Hand wheel, stitch length lever, tension dial, presser foot lever, bobbin winder disengagement.
Stitch Length: Adjust with side lever (higher number = longer stitches). Tension: Turn dial clockwise for tighter tension, counterclockwise for looser. Presser Foot Pressure: Spring-loaded for different fabric thicknesses. Needle Position: Set by hand wheel rotation. Bobbin Winder: Engage/disengage with friction wheel.
Proper threading is essential for quality stitches.
Tip: Always pull thread through tension discs before threading needle.
Regular oiling prevents wear and ensures smooth operation.
WARNING! Use only high-quality sewing machine oil. Never use household oils.
Original attachments include: hemmer foot, buttonholer, ruffler, binder, tucker.
Store in dry environment. Cover when not in use. Clean and oil before long-term storage.
CAUTION! Avoid damp conditions to prevent rust. Never store with pressure on presser foot.
The 1938 Singer sewing machine represents pre-war manufacturing excellence. Singer Company founded 1851, this model features classic black enamel with gold decals. Serial number location: right side of machine bed. Production continued through World War II with some material variations.
| Symptom | Possible Cause | Corrective Action |
|---|---|---|
| Thread breaking | Incorrect tension/rough spots | Adjust tension; check for burrs on needle plate; rethread. |
| Skipped stitches | Bent needle/wrong needle | Replace needle; ensure proper insertion; check needle size. |
| Machine hard to turn | Lack of oil/thread jam | Oil all points; remove bobbin case and clean; check for obstructions. |
| Uneven feeding | Dirty feed dogs/pressure | Clean feed dogs; check presser foot pressure; replace feed dogs if worn. |
| Bobbin thread bunching | Incorrect bobbin threading | Rethread bobbin; ensure proper direction in shuttle; check tension spring. |
Maintenance: Regular oiling and cleaning prevents most issues.
Service: Consult certified vintage sewing machine technician for major repairs.