Advice Singer Sewing Manual 1950s

The Advice Singer Sewing Manual from the 1950s provides comprehensive guidance for operating and maintaining Singer sewing machines from this classic era. This manual covers machine setup, threading techniques, stitch selection, maintenance procedures, and troubleshooting common issues. Below are key sections for proper machine operation, maintenance, and sewing techniques specific to 1950s Singer models.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Machine Setup 3. First-Time Operation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Threading the Machine 7. Stitch Selection 8. Maintenance Procedures 9. Care & Cleaning 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

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

Feature	Description
Cast iron body	Durable construction for stable sewing
Tension dial	Adjusts thread tension for different fabrics
Stitch length regulator	Controls stitch spacing from 6-20 stitches per inch
Bobbin winder	Automatic bobbin winding mechanism
Presser foot	Holds fabric in place during sewing
Hand wheel	Manual control for precise stitching
Reverse stitch lever	Enables backstitching for seam reinforcement
Needle clamp	Secures sewing needle in position
Foot pedal	Controls sewing speed
Light attachment	Illuminates sewing area

Machine Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable sewing table.

Position machine: Ensure stable surface with adequate lighting.
Install needle: Loosen needle clamp, insert needle with flat side to rear.
Connect power: Plug foot pedal into machine and wall outlet.
Oil machine: Apply Singer sewing machine oil to designated points.

WARNING! Machine is heavy; lift with care to avoid injury. Ensure all connections are secure.

First-Time Operation

Prepare machine for initial use; follow threading sequence.

Thread upper path: Follow numbered guides from spool to needle.
Wind bobbin: Place empty bobbin on winder, engage mechanism.
Insert bobbin: Drop bobbin into case with thread unwinding clockwise.
Test stitches: Use scrap fabric to adjust tension and stitch length.

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

Specifications

Machine Type: Straight stitch with reverse capability
Stitch Length: 6-20 stitches per inch
Bobbin Type: Class 66 metal bobbins
Needle System: 15x1 household needles
Presser Feet: Standard, zipper, buttonhole attachments available
Power Source: 110V AC, 60Hz foot pedal operation
Weight: Approximately 30 pounds
Materials: Cast iron body with steel components

Controls and Settings

Access controls via front panel and side mechanisms.

Front Controls: Stitch length regulator, tension dial, reverse lever, presser foot lifter.

Stitch Length: Adjust from 6 (basting) to 20 (fine stitches). Tension: Higher numbers for tighter tension (3-9 range). Reverse: Engage for backstitching. Presser Foot Pressure: Adjustable for different fabric weights. Bobbin Winder: Disengages needle mechanism when activated.

Threading the Machine

Follow numbered threading path for proper operation.

Place spool on spindle with thread unwinding counter-clockwise.
Thread through first guide above tension assembly.
Pass between tension discs and through take-up lever.
Follow remaining guides down to needle eye.
Thread needle from front to back.

Tip: Always raise presser foot when threading to open tension discs.

Stitch Selection

Straight stitch machine with adjustable length and reverse capability.

Standard stitch: Set stitch length between 10-12 for general sewing.
Basting: Set to 6 for temporary stitches.
Fine stitching: Set to 18-20 for delicate fabrics.
Reinforcement: Use reverse lever at beginning and end of seams.
Gathering: Use long stitches (4-6) and pull bobbin thread.

WARNING! Do not attempt zigzag stitches as this is a straight stitch only machine.

Maintenance Procedures

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

Daily: Brush out lint from bobbin area and feed dogs.
Weekly: Oil all designated points with Singer sewing machine oil.
Monthly: Clean tension assembly and check for thread fragments.
Annually: Professional servicing recommended for gear inspection.

Care & Cleaning

Unplug before cleaning. Use soft brush for lint removal; apply oil only to designated points.

CAUTION! Do not use household oils; only use Singer sewing machine oil. Keep machine covered when not in use.

Regulatory Information

Manufactured by The Singer Manufacturing Company. Patents pending and issued. For genuine Singer parts and accessories, contact authorized Singer dealers. This machine complies with 1950s electrical safety standards for household use.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Thread breaking	Incorrect threading/tension	Re-thread completely; reduce tension; check for burrs on needle.
Skip stitches	Bent needle/wrong needle type	Replace with new 15x1 needle; ensure proper insertion.
Bobbin thread bunching	Incorrect bobbin threading	Remove and re-thread bobbin; check bobbin case tension.
Machine won't start	Power/clutch engagement	Check power connection; ensure bobbin winder is disengaged.
Uneven feeding	Lint under feed dogs	Clean feed dog area; check presser foot pressure.

Service: Contact authorized Singer service center for major repairs.

Parts: Use only genuine Singer needles and bobbins for optimal performance.