1950 Singer Sewing Machine Manual

The 1950 Singer Sewing Machine is a classic mechanical sewing machine featuring a black finish, built-in stitch patterns, manual thread tension control, reverse stitching capability, built-in bobbin winder, adjustable presser foot pressure, and various accessory feet. Powered by foot pedal or hand crank, this durable machine is designed for home sewing with precision and reliability. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Cast iron body, tension dial, stitch length regulator, reverse lever, bobbin winder, presser foot lifter, hand wheel.

Installation & Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable table or sewing cabinet.

1. Position machine: Ensure stable surface at comfortable height.
2. Install needle: Loosen needle clamp, insert needle with flat side toward back, tighten.
3. Connect power: Plug foot pedal into machine and wall outlet (if electric model).
4. Oil machine: Apply sewing machine oil to designated points before first use.

WARNING! Machine is heavy; lift with care to avoid injury. Keep fingers away from needle during operation.

First-Time Operation

Prepare machine for sewing; follow step-by-step instructions.

1. Wind bobbin: Place spool on pin, thread through bobbin winder, engage mechanism.
2. Thread upper path: Follow numbered guides from spool to needle.
3. Insert bobbin: Drop bobbin into case with thread moving counterclockwise.
4. Test stitches: Use scrap fabric to adjust tension and stitch length.

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

Specifications

• Model: Singer 1950 Classic
• Stitch Types: Straight stitch, zigzag, decorative patterns
• Stitch Length: 0-4mm adjustable
• Stitch Width: 0-5mm for zigzag stitches
• Bobbin: Class 15 metal bobbins
• Needle System: 15x1 household needles
• Presser Feet: Standard, zipper, buttonhole, blind hem
• Power Source: Foot pedal electric or hand crank
• Weight: 25 lbs (11.3 kg)
• Materials: Sews light to medium weight fabrics

Controls and Settings

Main controls located on machine body: Stitch selector, tension dial, stitch length regulator, reverse lever.

Stitch Selection: Turn dial to desired stitch pattern. Tension Control: Higher numbers for tighter tension (4-6 for most fabrics). Stitch Length: 2-2.5 for general sewing, longer for basting. Reverse: Hold lever down for backstitching.

Presser Foot Pressure: Adjust for different fabric weights. Bobbin Tension: Adjust screw on bobbin case if needed.

Threading the Machine

Proper threading is essential for smooth operation.

1. Raise presser foot and needle to highest position.
2. Place spool on spindle with thread unwinding counterclockwise.
3. Follow threading path: Through first thread guide, around tension discs, through take-up lever.
4. Thread needle from front to back.
5. Pull up bobbin thread by turning hand wheel toward you.

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

Basic Sewing Operations

Fundamental sewing techniques for everyday projects.

1. Starting: Hold both threads to back, begin sewing slowly.
2. Guiding fabric: Guide fabric gently without pulling.
3. Reverse stitching: Use reverse lever at beginning and end of seams.
4. Turning corners: Stop with needle down in fabric, lift presser foot, pivot fabric.
5. Finishing: Backstitch, raise needle, lift presser foot, pull fabric to back.
6. Changing stitches: Always stop with needle up when changing settings.

WARNING! Never sew over pins; remove them as you approach.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

1. Daily: Brush out lint from bobbin area and feed dogs.
2. Weekly: Oil moving parts with sewing machine oil.
3. Monthly: Clean tension discs with folded fabric or dental floss.
4. As needed: Replace needle after 8-10 hours of sewing.

CAUTION! Unplug machine before cleaning or oiling. Use only sewing machine oil.

Accessory Feet

Various feet available for specialized sewing tasks.

To change feet: Raise needle, lift presser foot lever, remove current foot, snap on new foot.

Regulatory Information

Manufactured by The Singer Manufacturing Company. This machine complies with applicable safety standards for home sewing equipment. All original parts and accessories are covered by Singer's quality guarantee. For genuine Singer parts and accessories, contact authorized dealers. Serial number located on machine bed.

Troubleshooting

Service: Contact authorized Singer service center for major repairs.

Parts: Use only genuine Singer needles and accessories.