E&R Classic NT21 Sewing Machine Manual

The E&R Classic NT21 is a versatile mechanical sewing machine designed for home use, featuring multiple stitch patterns, adjustable stitch length and width, built-in buttonholer, free arm capability, drop feed for darning and quilting, built-in light, reverse stitching, and easy threading system. Suitable for various fabrics from lightweight to medium-weight materials. 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 & Patterns 7. Maintenance & Cleaning 8. Accessories Included 9. Safety Precautions 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Mechanical sewing machine with free arm, stitch selection dial, built-in buttonholer, reverse stitch lever, tension control, and bobbin winder.

FeatureDescription
Stitch Patterns21 built-in stitches including straight, zigzag, and decorative
Stitch Length ControlAdjustable from 0-4mm
Stitch Width ControlAdjustable up to 5mm for zigzag stitches
Built-in ButtonholerOne-step automatic buttonhole
Free ArmRemovable extension table for sewing cuffs and sleeves
Drop Feed DogFor darning, quilting, and free-motion sewing
Reverse StitchReinforce seam beginnings and ends
Built-in LightIlluminates sewing area
Bobbin WinderAutomatic bobbin winding system
Tension ControlAdjustable upper thread tension

Installation & Setup

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

  1. Remove packaging materials and protective covers from machine.
  2. Attach power cord to machine and plug into grounded electrical outlet.
  3. Install foot pedal and position for comfortable use.
  4. Attach extension table if using flatbed sewing.
  5. Thread machine following threading guide printed on machine.
  6. Wind and insert bobbin according to instructions.

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

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; test on scrap fabric first.

  1. Select straight stitch (pattern 1) for initial testing.
  2. Set stitch length to medium (2.5mm).
  3. Place fabric under presser foot and lower foot lever.
  4. Gently press foot pedal to begin sewing.
  5. Practice reverse stitching at beginning and end of seams.
  6. Experiment with different stitch patterns and settings.

CAUTION! Always use the correct needle and thread for your fabric type.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Main controls located on front and side of machine.

Stitch Selection Dial: Turn to select desired stitch pattern (1-21).

Stitch Length Dial: Adjust stitch length (0-4mm). 0 for darning position.

Stitch Width Dial: Adjust zigzag width (0-5mm).

Reverse Stitch Lever: Press and hold for reverse sewing.

Tension Dial: Adjust upper thread tension (1-9).

Bobbin Winder: Located on top of machine for bobbin winding.

Presser Foot Lever: Raises and lowers presser foot.

Stitch Selection & Patterns

21 built-in stitches for various sewing applications.

  1. Straight Stitch - Basic sewing, topstitching
  2. Zigzag Stitch - Seam finishing, appliqué
  3. 3-Step Zigzag - Stretch fabrics, mending
  4. Blind Hem Stitch - Nearly invisible hems
  5. Elastic Stitch - Knits and stretch fabrics
  6. Shell Stitch - Decorative edge finishing
  7. Scallop Stitch - Decorative sewing
  8. Multiple Decorative Stitches - Ornamental designs
  9. Buttonhole Stitch - One-step automatic buttonholes

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

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance.

  1. Unplug machine before cleaning or maintenance.
  2. Remove needle plate and clean lint from bobbin area.
  3. Oil machine according to lubrication points indicated in manual.
  4. Wipe exterior with soft, dry cloth.
  5. Replace needle regularly (every 8-10 hours of sewing).
  6. Check and clean feed dogs periodically.

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

Accessories Included

AccessoryQuantityUse
Zigzag Foot1General sewing
Buttonhole Foot1Automatic buttonholes
Zipper Foot1Zipper installation
Button Sewing Foot1Sewing on buttons
Class 15 Bobbins4Bobbin thread
Needles5Various sizes
Seam Ripper1Removing stitches
Brush1Cleaning lint
Screwdriver1Adjustments

Safety Precautions

Always follow safety guidelines to prevent injury and damage.

Regulatory Information

UL Listed: Certified for safety standards. CE Compliant: Meets European safety requirements. Copyright © 2025 E&R Sewing Machines. All rights reserved. For technical support and service, contact E&R Customer Service at 1-800-555-SEWN or visit www.erclassicsewing.com.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Thread breakingIncorrect threading/tensionRethread machine; adjust tension; check for burrs on needle
Skip stitchesWrong needle/damaged needleReplace needle; ensure correct needle for fabric
Bobbin thread bunchingIncorrect bobbin threadingRemove and reinsert bobbin; check bobbin case
Machine not runningPower/pedal issuesCheck power cord; ensure pedal is plugged in; check fuse
Uneven stitchesTension issuesAdjust upper and bobbin tension; rethread completely
Noise during operationLint buildup/needs oilingClean lint from bobbin area; oil machine as directed

Service: 1-800-555-SEWN; www.erclassicsewing.com

E&R Classic NT21 Sewing Machine Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025