Domestic 825 Sewing Machine Manual

The Domestic 825 is a versatile mechanical sewing machine featuring straight stitch, zigzag stitch, buttonhole capability, built-in stitch patterns, adjustable stitch length and width, free arm design, built-in light, reverse stitching, and drop feed for darning and quilting. Powered by 120V AC, 60Hz with foot pedal speed control. 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 Settings 6. Stitch Selection 7. Threading & Bobbin 8. Maintenance & Cleaning 9. Accessories 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Mechanical sewing head, free arm, stitch selection dial, tension control, bobbin case, built-in light, foot pedal control.

FeatureDescription
Stitch Selection DialSelects straight, zigzag, and decorative stitches
Stitch Length ControlAdjusts stitch length from 0-4mm
Stitch Width ControlAdjusts zigzag width from 0-5mm
Reverse Stitch LeverReinforces stitching at beginning/end
Free ArmRemovable extension for sleeves and cuffs
Built-in LightIlluminates sewing area
Bobbin WinderAutomatic bobbin winding system
Tension Control DialAdjusts upper thread tension
Presser Foot PressureAdjustable for different fabrics
Drop FeedLowers feed dogs for darning and quilting

Installation & Setup

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

  1. Remove machine from packaging: Lift carefully from carrying case.
  2. Position machine: Place on flat, stable surface at comfortable height.
  3. Install foot pedal: Connect to machine port and place on floor.
  4. Plug into AC power: Use included power cord.
  5. Install needle: Loosen needle clamp, insert needle with flat side to back.
  6. Wind bobbin: Follow bobbin winding instructions.

WARNING! Keep fingers away from needle area during operation. Unplug when not in use.

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; test basic functions.

  1. Thread machine: Follow numbered threading guide on machine.
  2. Insert bobbin: Place bobbin in case with thread pulling counterclockwise.
  3. Select straight stitch: Set stitch dial to straight stitch position.
  4. Test stitch: Place fabric under presser foot, lower foot, and press pedal gently.
  5. Adjust tension: Test on scrap fabric until stitches are balanced.
  6. Practice reverse: Use reverse lever to reinforce stitches.

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

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Main controls located on front and side of machine.

Stitch Selection: Turn dial to select stitch pattern. Stitch Length: Adjust for shorter/longer stitches. Stitch Width: Adjust for narrow/wide zigzag. Reverse Stitch: Press and hold lever for backward stitching. Tension Control: Higher numbers for tighter tension. Presser Foot Pressure: Adjust for light/heavy fabrics.

Stitch Selection

Built-in stitches for various sewing applications.

  1. Straight Stitch: Position 1 - General sewing
  2. Zigzag Stitch: Position 2 - Seam finishing, appliqué
  3. 3-step Zigzag: Position 3 - Stretch fabrics, mending
  4. Blind Hem: Position 4 - Nearly invisible hems
  5. Decorative Stitches: Positions 5-7 - Embellishment
  6. Buttonhole: Positions 8-11 - 4-step buttonhole process

Tip: Always test stitches on scrap fabric before sewing project.

Threading & Bobbin

Proper threading ensures smooth operation.

  1. Raise presser foot and needle to highest position.
  2. Follow numbered threading guide: Spool pin to tension discs to take-up lever to needle.
  3. Wind bobbin: Place thread on spool pin, through guide, around tension spring, to bobbin.
  4. Insert bobbin: Drop into case with thread exiting to left, pull through slot.
  5. Pull up bobbin thread: Hold upper thread, turn handwheel until bobbin thread appears.

WARNING! Ensure machine is unplugged during threading and bobbin changes.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance.

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

CAUTION! Use only sewing machine oil. Never use household oils.

Accessories

Included accessories for various sewing tasks.

AccessoryUse
Standard Presser FootGeneral sewing
Zipper FootInstalling zippers
Buttonhole FootMaking buttonholes
Button Sewing FootSewing on buttons
Darning/Embroidery FootFree-motion sewing
Seam RipperRemoving stitches
BrushCleaning lint
Extra BobbinsAdditional thread colors
NeedlesReplacement needles

Regulatory Information

UL Listed: Complies with UL safety standards. FCC Part 15: Class B digital device. Copyright © Domestic Sewing Machine Company. For technical support, contact 1-800-DOMESTIC or visit www.domesticsewing.com. Made for household use only.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Thread breakingIncorrect threading/tensionRethread completely; reduce tension; check for burrs on needle.
Skipped stitchesWrong needle/bent needleReplace needle; ensure correct needle type for fabric.
Bobbin thread bunchingIncorrect bobbin insertionRemove and reinsert bobbin; ensure thread feeds correctly.
Machine jamsThread caught in hook raceRemove bobbin case; clean hook race; rethread carefully.
Uneven stitchesTension imbalanceAdjust upper tension; ensure bobbin case tension spring functions.
Machine won't runPower/pedal issueCheck power connection; test foot pedal; check for obstructions.

Service: 1-800-DOMESTIC; www.domesticsewing.com

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