Dressmaker 25161 Sewing Machine Manual

The Dressmaker 25161 is a versatile household sewing machine featuring 61 built-in stitches, automatic needle threader, adjustable stitch length and width, built-in buttonhole styles, free arm capability, LED lighting, top drop-in bobbin system, and multiple presser feet. Powered by 120V AC, this machine is ideal for beginners and experienced sewers alike. 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 Guide 7. Threading & Bobbin 8. Maintenance & Cleaning 9. Accessories Included 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 61 built-in stitches, automatic needle threader, free arm, LED work light, top drop-in bobbin, multiple presser feet.

Feature	Description
Built-in Stitches	61 stitches including utility, decorative, and stretch
Automatic Needle Threader	Easy threading with push-pull mechanism
Free Arm	For sewing cuffs, sleeves, and other cylindrical items
LED Work Light	Bright illumination of sewing area
Top Drop-in Bobbin	Easy bobbin loading with clear cover
Stitch Length/Width	Adjustable for custom sewing projects
Buttonhole Styles	One-step automatic buttonholes
Presser Feet	Includes zipper, buttonhole, blind hem, and button sewing feet
Power Switch	Main power control with indicator light
Speed Control	Adjustable sewing speed with slider

Installation & Setup

Unpack and inspect all contents. Place on stable, level surface.

Remove packaging materials and protective covers from machine.
Attach power cord to machine and plug into 120V AC outlet.
Install foot controller and connect to machine.
Attach standard presser foot and needle.
Wind and insert bobbin following threading diagram.

WARNING! Keep fingers away from needle area during operation. Always turn off power when threading or changing accessories.

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; follow setup procedures.

Thread machine: Use automatic needle threader or follow threading path.
Insert bobbin: Place bobbin in case with thread pulling counterclockwise.
Select stitch: Turn stitch selection dial to desired pattern.
Adjust settings: Set stitch length and width as needed.
Test sew: Use scrap fabric to test stitch quality and tension.

CAUTION! Always start with practice fabric. Ensure proper thread tension before beginning projects.

Specifications

Stitches: 61 built-in stitches
Stitch Length: Adjustable 0-4mm
Stitch Width: Adjustable 0-5mm
Buttonholes: One-step automatic
Needle System: HA-1, 130/705 H
Bobbin: Top drop-in, Class 15 transparent
Max Sewing Speed: 800 stitches per minute
Lighting: LED work light
Power Requirements: 120V AC, 60Hz
Machine Dimensions: 15.4" x 7.1" x 11.8"
Weight: 12.1 lbs

Controls and Settings

Main controls: Power switch, stitch selection dial, stitch length dial, stitch width dial, reverse stitch button.

Stitch Selection: Turn dial to select from 61 built-in stitches. Stitch Length: Adjust from 0-4mm for different fabric types. Stitch Width: Adjust from 0-5mm for zigzag and decorative stitches. Reverse Stitch: Hold button for reinforcement stitching. Thread Tension: Adjust dial for proper upper thread tension.

Stitch Selection Guide

Stitch chart includes: Straight stitches (1-5), zigzag stitches (6-15), stretch stitches (16-25), decorative stitches (26-61).

Basic straight stitch: For seams and topstitching
Zigzag stitch: For finishing edges and stretch fabrics
Blind hem stitch: For invisible hemming
Elastic stitch: For knit fabrics and elastic application
Decorative stitches: For embellishments and creative projects
Buttonhole stitch: Automatic one-step buttonholes

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

Threading & Bobbin

Proper threading ensures smooth operation and quality stitches.

Raise presser foot and needle to highest position.
Place spool on spool pin and follow threading path.
Use automatic needle threader: Push lever down and hook thread through needle.
Wind bobbin: Place empty bobbin on winder, guide thread, and engage winder.
Insert bobbin: Drop into case with thread pulling counterclockwise.
Pull bobbin thread up through needle plate.

WARNING! Always turn power off when threading needle or changing bobbin.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

Clean lint from bobbin area after each project.
Oil moving parts as recommended in maintenance schedule.
Replace needle regularly or after 8 hours of sewing.
Clean exterior with soft, dry cloth only.
Store machine covered when not in use.

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

Accessories Included

Standard Presser Foot
Zipper Foot
Buttonhole Foot
Blind Hem Foot
Button Sewing Foot
Extra Bobbins (Class 15)
Needles (Assorted sizes)
Seam Ripper/Lint Brush
Screwdriver
Power Cord & Foot Controller
Hard Dust Cover

Regulatory Information

UL Listed: Complies with UL 1278 standard for household sewing machines. FCC Part 15: Class B digital device compliant. Copyright © 2025 Dressmaker Sewing Company. All rights reserved. For technical support, visit www.dressmakersupport.com or contact 1-800-555-SEWING.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Machine won't start	Power connection	Check power cord connection; ensure foot controller is plugged in properly.
Thread breaking	Tension/thread quality	Check thread tension; use quality thread; ensure proper threading.
Skip stitches	Needle issues	Replace needle; ensure correct needle type for fabric.
Bobbin thread bunching	Bobbin threading	Re-thread bobbin; ensure bobbin is inserted correctly.
Uneven stitches	Tension settings	Adjust upper and bobbin thread tension; clean lint from tension disks.
Machine jams	Thread buildup	Turn off power; remove fabric; clean bobbin area; re-thread machine.

Reset: Turn machine off and unplug for 30 seconds to reset electronic components.

Service: 1-800-555-SEWING; www.dressmakersupport.com