The 1946 Singer Sewing Machine is a classic vintage model featuring cast iron construction, black finish with gold decals, manual treadle operation, straight stitch capability, adjustable stitch length, built-in bobbin winder, tension control, presser foot pressure adjustment, and drop feed for darning and embroidery. Below are key sections for operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and historical information.
Key components: Cast iron body, treadle mechanism, bobbin case, tension discs, presser foot, needle bar, shuttle mechanism.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Treadle operation | Foot-powered via treadle and drive wheel |
| Stitch type | Straight stitch only |
| Stitch length control | Adjustable via stitch length lever |
| Bobbin system | Vertical oscillating shuttle |
| Tension control | Upper and lower thread tension adjustment |
| Presser foot pressure | Adjustable for different fabric thicknesses |
| Feed dog | Drop feed mechanism for darning |
| Built-in bobbin winder | Located on hand wheel side |
| Needle system | 15x1 household needles |
| Decorative finish | Black with gold decals and floral motifs |
Assemble on sturdy table or cabinet designed for treadle machines.
WARNING! Machine is heavy; use proper lifting technique. Ensure cabinet is stable before operation.
Start with clean, oiled machine and proper threading.
CAUTION! Keep fingers away from needle area while machine is in motion.
Main controls located on machine bed and head.
Stitch Length: Lever on bed plate - forward for longer stitches, back for shorter.
Tension Control: Upper thread tension dial - higher numbers for tighter tension.
Presser Foot Pressure: Screw on presser bar - clockwise for more pressure.
Feed Dog: Drop feed lever - engage for normal sewing, disengage for darning.
Bobbin Winder: Friction wheel on hand wheel - engage to wind bobbin.
Proper threading is essential for good stitch formation.
Tip: Always thread machine with presser foot raised to release tension discs.
Regular oiling prevents wear and ensures smooth operation.
WARNING! Use only high-quality sewing machine oil. Wipe excess oil to prevent staining fabric.
Original accessories included with 1946 models.
| Accessory | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Standard presser foot | General sewing |
| Zipper foot | Installing zippers and cording |
| Buttonhole foot | Making straight stitch buttonholes |
| Darning plate | Covers feed dogs for free-motion work |
| Seam guide | Attaches to bed plate for even seams |
| Extra bobbins | Class 66 metal bobbins |
| Screwdrivers | For adjustments and needle changes |
Proper care preserves the machine's finish and function.
CAUTION! Never use harsh chemicals or abrasives on the finish. Do not submerge in water.
The 1946 Singer sewing machine represents post-war manufacturing excellence. Produced immediately following World War II, these machines continued the quality and reliability Singer was known for. The model features the classic Singer decals and construction methods that made these machines heirlooms. Serial numbers from 1946 typically range from Y series. These machines were often sold in treadle cabinets but could also be converted to electric operation.
| Symptom | Possible Cause | Corrective Action |
|---|---|---|
| Thread breaking | Incorrect tension or burred needle | Adjust tension; replace needle; check for rough spots |
| Skipped stitches | Wrong needle or bent needle | Replace with correct 15x1 needle; ensure straight insertion |
| Machine hard to turn | Lack of oil or thread jam | Oil all points; remove bobbin case and clean |
| Uneven feeding | Presser foot pressure incorrect | Adjust presser foot pressure screw |
| Noisy operation | Need for oil or loose parts | Oil thoroughly; check for loose screws |
| Bobbin thread bunching | Incorrect bobbin threading | Re-thread bobbin; ensure proper insertion in shuttle |
Professional Service: For major repairs, consult a vintage sewing machine specialist.
Parts Source: Vintage sewing machine dealers or online suppliers specializing in Singer parts.