Dressmaker Sewing Machine 998B Instruction Manual

The Dressmaker Sewing Machine 998B is a versatile household sewing machine featuring multiple stitch patterns, adjustable stitch length and width, built-in buttonhole function, free arm capability, automatic needle threading, top drop-in bobbin system, built-in LED light, and adjustable presser foot pressure. Powered by 120V AC, 60Hz. 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: Sewing head with built-in stitch patterns, Free arm, Bobbin system, Presser feet, LED work light, Foot pedal, Power adapter.

FeatureDescription
Stitch patterns12 built-in stitches including straight, zigzag, stretch, and decorative
Buttonhole functionOne-step automatic buttonhole
Free armRemovable extension table for sewing sleeves and cuffs
Needle threaderAutomatic needle threading system
Bobbin systemTop drop-in bobbin with clear cover
LED lightBuilt-in LED illumination for work area
Stitch length controlAdjustable from 0-4mm
Stitch width controlAdjustable from 0-5mm
Reverse stitchBuilt-in reverse stitching function
Presser feetIncludes zipper foot, buttonhole foot, and all-purpose foot

Installation & Setup

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

  1. Remove machine from packaging and remove all protective materials.
  2. Attach power cord to machine and plug into AC outlet.
  3. Install foot pedal and connect to machine.
  4. Install needle: Loosen needle clamp screw, insert needle with flat side to back, tighten screw.
  5. Wind bobbin: Place thread on spool pin, follow threading guide, wind bobbin.

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

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; follow threading instructions carefully.

  1. Thread upper thread: Follow numbered threading path on machine.
  2. Insert bobbin: Place bobbin in bobbin case with thread running counterclockwise.
  3. Select stitch: Turn stitch selection dial to desired pattern.
  4. Adjust settings: Set stitch length and width as needed.
  5. Test sew: Use scrap fabric to test stitch quality and tension.
  6. Practice basic stitches: Straight stitch and zigzag before complex patterns.

CAUTION! Always start with needle in highest position. Keep work area clear.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Main controls: Stitch selection dial, Stitch length control, Stitch width control, Reverse stitch button, Handwheel.

Stitch Selection: Turn dial to select from 12 built-in stitches including straight, zigzag, blind hem, stretch stitches, and decorative patterns.

Stitch Length: Adjust for fabric type - shorter for delicate fabrics, longer for basting.

Stitch Width: Adjust zigzag and decorative stitch width.

Reverse Stitch: Press and hold to reinforce seam beginnings and endings.

Tension Control: Upper thread tension dial (4-6 for normal sewing).

Stitch Selection

Available stitches and their applications:

  1. Straight Stitch (1): Basic sewing, topstitching, gathering
  2. Zigzag Stitch (2): Finishing edges, appliqué, stretch fabrics
  3. 3-Step Zigzag (3): Elastic application, mending
  4. Blind Hem (4): Nearly invisible hemming
  5. Stretch Stitch (5): Knits and stretch fabrics
  6. Decorative Stitches (6-11): Various patterns for embellishment
  7. Buttonhole (12): One-step automatic buttonholes

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

Threading & Bobbin

Proper threading is essential for good stitch quality.

  1. Upper Threading: Follow numbered path: Spool pin → thread guides → tension discs → take-up lever → needle.
  2. Automatic Needle Threader: Lower threader lever, hook thread, return lever slowly.
  3. Bobbin Winding: Place spool on pin, thread through bobbin winding tension, press bobbin onto winder.
  4. Bobbin Insertion: Drop bobbin into case with thread counterclockwise, pull thread through slot.
  5. Bring Up Bobbin Thread: Hold upper thread, turn handwheel toward you until bobbin thread appears.

WARNING! Ensure machine is off when threading. Keep fingers clear of moving parts.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance.

  1. Clean lint and dust from bobbin area after each project.
  2. Oil moving parts monthly with sewing machine oil (2-3 drops).
  3. Wipe exterior with soft, dry cloth.
  4. Replace needle after 8-10 hours of sewing or if damaged.
  5. Store in dust cover when not in use.

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

Accessories

Included accessories and their uses:

AccessoryUse
All-purpose footGeneral sewing
Zipper footInstalling zippers
Buttonhole footMaking buttonholes
Bobbin (x4)Extra bobbins for different threads
Needles (x5)Replacement needles
Seam ripperRemoving stitches
BrushCleaning lint
ScrewdriverNeedle plate removal

Regulatory Information

UL Listed: Complies with UL safety standards. FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with interference limits for residential use. Copyright © 2025 Dressmaker; all rights reserved. For technical support, visit www.dressmakersupport.com or contact 1-800-555-SEWING.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Thread breakingIncorrect threading/tensionRe-thread completely; adjust tension; check for burrs on needle
Skipped stitchesWrong needle/damaged needleReplace needle; ensure correct needle for fabric type
Uneven stitchesPoor threading/tensionRe-thread upper and bobbin; clean bobbin area; adjust tension
Machine jamsThread buildupRemove needle plate; clean bobbin area; re-thread
No powerPower connectionCheck power cord; ensure foot pedal connected; check outlet
Poor buttonholesStabilizer missingUse stabilizer; check stitch setting; ensure proper foot

Reset: Unplug for 5 minutes to reset electronic components.

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

Dressmaker Sewing Machine 998B Instruction Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025