99k Singer Sewing Machine Instruction Manual

The Singer 99k is a classic, portable, straight-stitch sewing machine manufactured from the 1930s to the 1950s. It features a 3/4 size body, built-in bobbin winder, reverse stitch capability, tension control, stitch length adjustment, and is designed for use with a treadle, hand crank, or electric motor (with adapter). Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Unpacking and Setup 3. First-Time Operation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Threading the Machine 7. Basic Sewing Techniques 8. Maintenance & Oil Guide 9. Accessories 10. Warranty & Support 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 3/4 size body, tension dial, stitch length regulator, reverse lever, bobbin winder, presser foot, needle clamp.

Feature	Description
Stitch type	Straight stitch only
Reverse stitch	Lever for back-tacking
Bobbin winder	Built-in on machine body
Stitch length	Adjustable from 0-20 stitches per inch
Tension control	Dial for upper thread tension
Presser feet	Standard presser foot included
Power options	Treadle, hand crank, or electric motor
Needle system	Uses 15x1 needles
Bobbin type	Class 66 metal bobbins
Weight	Approximately 15 lbs

Unpacking and Setup

Unpack carefully and inspect all components.

Choose stable surface: Place on sturdy table or in treadle cabinet.
Install needle: Loosen needle clamp screw, insert needle with flat side to back, tighten.
Attach power source: Install hand crank, connect to treadle, or attach electric motor.
Oil machine: Apply sewing machine oil to points indicated in oil guide.

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

First-Time Operation

Prepare machine for sewing with proper threading and bobbin.

Wind bobbin: Place thread on spool pin, thread through bobbin winder tension, engage winder.
Thread upper path: Follow numbered guides from spool to needle.
Insert bobbin: Drop bobbin into case with thread pulling counterclockwise.
Draw up bobbin thread: Hold upper thread, turn hand wheel toward you to catch bobbin thread.
Test stitch: Use scrap fabric to adjust tension and stitch length.

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

Specifications

Model: Singer 99k
Stitch Type: Straight stitch only
Stitch Length: 0-20 stitches per inch
Bobbin: Class 66 metal
Needle: 15x1 system
Presser Foot Lift: Standard height
Reverse: Lever-operated
Weight: 15 lbs (approximately)
Dimensions: 3/4 size portable
Manufacture Years: 1930s-1950s

Controls and Settings

Main controls located on right side of machine body.

Stitch Length Regulator: Dial with numbers 0-20 (0 for bobbin winding). Tension Dial: Higher numbers for tighter tension. Reverse Lever: Push to the right for reverse stitching. Presser Foot Lever: Raises and lowers presser foot. Hand Wheel: Always turn toward you.

Adjustments: Tension for balanced stitches (threads meeting in fabric middle), stitch length for fabric type (longer for basting, shorter for fine fabrics).

Threading the Machine

Proper threading is essential for good stitch formation.

Raise presser foot and needle to highest position.
Place thread spool on spool pin.
Follow numbered guides: Through first thread guide, around tension discs, through take-up lever, down to needle.
Thread needle from front to back.
For bobbin: Wind bobbin evenly, insert with thread exiting to the left.

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

Basic Sewing Techniques

Mastering fundamental sewing operations.

Starting: Place fabric under presser foot, lower foot, hold threads to back.
Straight stitch: Guide fabric gently, don't push or pull.
Reverse: Use reverse lever at beginning and end of seams.
Turning corners: Stop with needle down in fabric, lift presser foot, pivot fabric.
Finishing: Reverse stitch, raise needle, lift presser foot, pull fabric to back and trim threads.
Different fabrics: Adjust stitch length - shorter for delicate, longer for heavy fabrics.

WARNING! Keep fingers away from moving needle. Never sew over pins.

Maintenance & Oil Guide

Regular maintenance ensures smooth operation and longevity.

Oil points: Needle bar, presser bar, bobbin case area, take-up lever, all moving joints. Use only sewing machine oil. Clean lint from bobbin area regularly. Wipe exterior with soft cloth.

CAUTION! Unplug electric motor before oiling. Wipe excess oil to prevent staining fabric.

Accessories

Original accessories may include various presser feet, bobbins, needles, screwdrivers, and oil cans.

Accessory	Use
Zipper foot	Installing zippers
Buttonhole foot	Making buttonholes (manual)
Hemming foot	Rolled hems
Class 66 bobbins	Bobbin replacement
15x1 needles	Needle replacement

Warranty & Support

As a vintage machine, no manufacturer warranty applies. For service, contact authorized Singer service centers or qualified vintage sewing machine technicians. Serial number located on machine bed. For information, visit www.singer.com or contact Singer customer service.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Thread breaking	Incorrect threading/tension	Re-thread completely; reduce tension; check for burrs on needle.
Skipped stitches	Wrong needle/bent needle	Replace needle; ensure correct needle type; check needle insertion.
Bobbin thread bunching	Incorrect bobbin threading	Re-thread bobbin; check bobbin case tension.
Machine hard to turn	Lack of oil/thread jam	Oil all points; remove bobbin case and clean; check for thread jam.
Uneven stitches	Tension imbalance	Adjust upper and bobbin tension; re-thread both upper and bobbin.

Note: For persistent issues, consult professional sewing machine technician.

Service: Authorized Singer service centers; www.singer.com