1947 Singer Sewing Machine Manual

The 1947 Singer Sewing Machine is a classic mechanical sewing machine featuring a cast-iron body, manual treadle operation, straight stitch capability, adjustable stitch length, built-in bobbin winder, tension control, presser foot adjustments, and various attachments for different sewing techniques. Designed for durability and precision sewing, this machine requires proper maintenance and operation. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation & Setup 3. First-Time Operation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Adjustments 6. Threading the Machine 7. Basic Sewing Techniques 8. Maintenance & Lubrication 9. Care & Cleaning 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Cast-iron body, Treadle mechanism, Bobbin winder, Tension dial, Stitch length regulator, Presser foot, Needle bar, Hand wheel.

Feature	Description
Treadle mechanism	Foot-powered operation for smooth stitching
Bobbin winder	Built-in bobbin winding system
Tension dial	Adjusts thread tension for different fabrics
Stitch length regulator	Controls stitch length from 6-20 stitches per inch
Presser foot	Holds fabric in place during sewing
Needle bar	Standard 15x1 sewing machine needles
Hand wheel	Manual control for precise needle positioning
Reverse stitch	Limited reverse capability for securing stitches
Attachments	Includes hemmer, binder, and ruffler attachments
Oil ports	Designated lubrication points for maintenance

Installation & Setup

Unpack and inspect all components. Place on stable, level surface.

Assemble treadle cabinet: Follow included diagram for proper assembly.
Mount sewing machine: Secure machine to cabinet using provided bolts.
Install belt: Connect treadle belt to hand wheel and treadle mechanism.
Oil machine: Apply sewing machine oil to all designated oil ports.
Test operation: Turn hand wheel to ensure smooth movement.

WARNING! Machine is heavy; use assistance for lifting. Ensure all bolts are tightened securely.

First-Time Operation

Prepare machine for initial use with proper threading and tension settings.

Thread upper path: Follow numbered guides from spool to needle.
Wind bobbin: Use built-in bobbin winder with thread from spool.
Insert bobbin: Place bobbin in case with thread pulling counterclockwise.
Set tension: Start with medium tension (4-5) for average fabrics.
Test stitch: Use scrap fabric to check stitch quality and tension.
Adjust presser foot: Set appropriate pressure for fabric thickness.

CAUTION! Keep fingers away from needle during operation. Always disengage clutch when winding bobbin.

Specifications

Model Year: 1947
Stitch Type: Straight stitch only
Stitch Length: 6-20 stitches per inch
Needle System: 15x1 standard
Bobbin Type: Class 66 metal bobbins
Tension Control: Dial adjustment 1-9
Presser Feet: Standard, with attachment capability
Power Source: Manual treadle operation
Weight: Approximately 30 lbs (machine only)
Materials: Cast iron body, steel components

Controls and Adjustments

Primary controls: Hand wheel, Stitch length regulator, Tension dial, Presser foot lever, Bobbin winder disengage.

Adjustments: Stitch length (6-20 spi), Thread tension (1-9), Presser foot pressure, Needle position.

Operation: Start with slow, even treadle motion. Use hand wheel for precise needle positioning. Disengage clutch for bobbin winding. Lower presser foot before sewing. Raise presser foot to remove fabric.

Threading the Machine

Proper threading is essential for smooth operation.

Upper threading: Spool pin → thread guide → tension discs → take-up lever → needle.
Bobbin winding: Disengage clutch, place thread on spool pin, wind bobbin evenly.
Bobbin insertion: Drop bobbin in case, pull thread through slot and under tension spring.
Needle threading: Thread from front to back, leave 4-6 inch tail.
Bring up bobbin thread: Hold upper thread, turn hand wheel to bring up bobbin thread.

Tip: Always thread machine with presser foot raised to open tension discs.

Basic Sewing Techniques

Master fundamental sewing operations for best results.

Starting: Place fabric under presser foot, lower foot, take 2-3 stitches forward.
Straight stitching: Guide fabric evenly, maintain consistent speed.
Turning corners: Stop with needle down, raise presser foot, pivot fabric.
Finishing: Backstitch 2-3 stitches to secure, or tie threads.
Different fabrics: Adjust tension and stitch length for fabric weight.
Using attachments: Install hemmer, binder, or ruffler for specialized work.
Seam allowances: Use throat plate markings for consistent seams.

WARNING! Never force fabric through machine. Let feed dogs move fabric naturally.

Maintenance & Lubrication

Regular maintenance ensures long-term performance.

Daily: Brush out lint and dust. Weekly: Oil all designated points with sewing machine oil. Monthly: Check belt tension and adjust if necessary. Yearly: Complete disassembly and cleaning recommended.

Lubrication points: Needle bar, Presser foot bar, Bobbin case area, Hand wheel shaft, Treadle mechanism joints.

Care & Cleaning

Keep machine clean and protected when not in use.

Use soft brush for lint removal. Wipe with dry cloth only. Cover when not in use. Store in dry environment. Use only sewing machine oil for lubrication.

CAUTION! Do not use household oils or lubricants. Avoid moisture and extreme temperatures.

Regulatory Information

The Singer Manufacturing Company, established 1851. This machine manufactured under Singer patents and quality standards. Serial number located on bed of machine. For historical reference and replacement parts, contact Singer authorized service centers. This manual covers model variations produced in 1947.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Thread breaking	Incorrect tension/threading	Re-thread completely; adjust tension; check for burrs on needle.
Skipped stitches	Needle issues/timing	Replace needle; ensure proper insertion; check hook timing.
Uneven stitches	Tension problems	Balance upper and bobbin tension; clean tension discs.
Machine hard to turn	Lack of oil/lint	Oil all points; clean lint buildup; check for obstructions.
Fabric not feeding	Presser foot/feed dogs	Check presser foot pressure; clean feed dogs; replace feed dog spring.
Noisy operation	Need for lubrication	Oil all moving parts; check for loose components; tighten screws.
Bobbin thread bunching	Incorrect bobbin threading	Re-thread bobbin case; check tension spring; replace bobbin.

Service: Contact authorized Singer service center for major repairs. Use only genuine Singer parts.