Best Manual Sewing Machine 2017

The Best Manual Sewing Machine 2017 is a high-quality, user-friendly sewing machine designed for both beginners and experienced sewers. It features manual operation with easy-to-use controls, multiple stitch patterns, adjustable stitch length and width, built-in needle threader, free arm capability, and durable metal construction. Powered by foot pedal or hand crank, this machine offers precision stitching for various fabrics including denim, silk, and cotton. Below are key sections for 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. Stitch Selection and Adjustments 7. Maintenance and Care 8. Accessories Included 9. Safety Guidelines 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Manual operation mechanism, Stitch selection dial, Tension control, Bobbin winding system, Free arm, Built-in light, Foot pedal, Hand crank option.

Feature	Description
Manual operation	Foot pedal or hand crank for precise speed control
Stitch patterns	12 built-in stitches including straight, zigzag, and decorative
Adjustable stitch length	0-4mm range for various fabric types
Adjustable stitch width	0-5mm for zigzag and decorative stitches
Built-in needle threader	Easy threading for quick setup
Free arm capability	For sewing cuffs and tubular items
Drop feed dogs	For free-motion quilting and darning
Built-in light	LED illumination for better visibility
Reverse stitching	For securing seams
Bobbin indicator	Visual warning when bobbin is low

Unpacking and Setup

Carefully unpack all components and inspect for damage.

Remove machine from packaging: Lift from base, not by hand wheel.
Attach foot pedal: Connect pedal cable to machine port.
Install needle: Loosen needle clamp, insert needle with flat side to back.
Wind bobbin: Place thread on spool pin, guide through tension, wind onto bobbin.
Insert bobbin: Place bobbin in case with thread counterclockwise.
Thread machine: Follow numbered threading path on machine.
Plug in power: Connect to standard 120V outlet.

WARNING! Machine is heavy; use both hands when lifting. Keep fingers away from needle during operation.

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; test on scrap fabric first.

Select straight stitch: Turn stitch dial to straight stitch position.
Set stitch length: Adjust to 2.5mm for medium-weight fabric.
Thread machine: Use built-in needle threader for easy threading.
Test stitch: Place fabric under presser foot, lower foot, and begin sewing.
Practice reverse: Use reverse lever to secure beginning and end of seams.
Experiment with stitches: Try different stitch patterns on scrap fabric.

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

Specifications

Type: Manual sewing machine
Stitches: 12 built-in patterns
Stitch Length: 0-4mm adjustable
Stitch Width: 0-5mm adjustable
Maximum Speed: 800 stitches per minute
Presser Feet: 4 included (zigzag, zipper, buttonhole, button)
Bobbin: Class 15 transparent
Needles: Standard domestic 130/705 H system
Power: Foot pedal with 120V AC adapter
Weight: 15.4 lbs (7 kg)
Dimensions: 15.2" x 6.7" x 11.8"

Controls and Settings

Main controls located on front and side of machine.

Front Panel: Stitch selection dial, Stitch length control, Stitch width control, Reverse stitch lever, Bobbin winder, Hand wheel.

Settings: Tension control (0-9), Presser foot pressure, Feed dog position, Needle position. Stitch patterns: Straight, Zigzag, Blind hem, Elastic, Shell, Multiple decorative stitches.

Stitch Selection and Adjustments

Choose appropriate stitch for your project.

Straight stitch: For basic seams, topstitching (length 2.0-3.0mm)
Zigzag stitch: For finishing edges, stretch fabrics (width 2.0-4.0mm)
Blind hem: For nearly invisible hems
Buttonhole: 4-step process for perfect buttonholes
Decorative stitches: For embellishments and creative projects

Tip: Always test stitch settings on scrap fabric before starting your project.

Maintenance and Care

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance.

Daily: Brush out lint from bobbin area and feed dogs
Weekly: Oil moving parts with sewing machine oil
Monthly: Clean tension discs with soft brush
As needed: Replace needle after 8-10 hours of sewing
Storage: Cover machine when not in use

WARNING! Unplug machine before cleaning or maintenance.

Accessories Included

4 Presser feet: Zigzag, zipper, buttonhole, button sewing
Assorted needles: Size 11, 14, 16, 18
Bobbin set: 4 Class 15 bobbins
Seam ripper and lint brush
Screwdriver and extra spool pins
Instruction manual and project guide

Safety Guidelines

Always follow safety precautions when operating.

Keep fingers away from moving needle
Unplug when changing needles or cleaning
Do not operate with damaged cord
Keep hair and loose clothing away from machine
Use proper lighting to avoid eye strain
Store in dry area away from children

CAUTION! Never leave machine unattended while plugged in.

Warranty Information

This sewing machine comes with a 25-year limited warranty on mechanical parts and 5-year warranty on electrical components. Warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship. Does not cover damage from misuse, improper maintenance, or commercial use. For warranty claims, contact customer service with proof of purchase.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Thread breaking	Incorrect tension or old thread	Check threading path; adjust tension; use quality thread.
Skipped stitches	Bent needle or incorrect needle type	Replace needle; ensure correct needle for fabric.
Machine jams	Thread buildup or lint	Clean bobbin area; rethread completely.
Uneven stitches	Incorrect tension or feed dog issue	Adjust upper and lower tension; clean feed dogs.
No power	Loose connection or foot pedal issue	Check power cord; test foot pedal connection.
Noisy operation	Need for oiling or loose parts	Oil moving parts; check for loose screws.

Service: 1-800-SEW-HELP; www.bestmanualsewing2017.com