Elnita 120 Sewing Machine Manual

The Elnita 120 is a versatile household sewing machine featuring 120 built-in stitches, automatic needle threader, drop-in bobbin system, adjustable stitch length and width, built-in buttonholes, free arm capability, LED lighting, and speed control. Powered by 110-120V 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. Unpacking and Setup 3. First-Time Operation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Stitch Selection 7. Threading and Bobbin 9. Maintenance & Cleaning 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 120 built-in stitches, automatic needle threader, drop-in bobbin system, free arm, LED work light, foot pedal control.

FeatureDescription
Built-in stitches120 stitch patterns including utility, decorative, and stretch stitches
Automatic needle threaderEasy needle threading with push-button mechanism
Drop-in bobbinTop-loading bobbin system with clear cover
Free armRemovable extension table for sewing cuffs and sleeves
LED work lightBright illumination of sewing area
Stitch length/width controlAdjustable settings for custom sewing
Buttonhole styles7 one-step automatic buttonholes
Speed controlAdjustable sewing speed with slider
Reverse stitchButton for reinforcing stitches
Power switchMain power on/off control

Unpacking and Setup

Unpack and inspect all contents. Place on stable surface at comfortable height.

  1. Remove machine from packaging: Lift carefully from carrying case.
  2. Attach power cord: Plug into machine and wall outlet.
  3. Install foot pedal: Connect to machine port and place on floor.
  4. Attach accessory tray: Slide into position on free arm.
  5. Insert needle: Loosen needle clamp screw, insert needle with flat side to back.

WARNING! Machine is heavy; lift with both hands. Keep fingers away from needle area during operation.

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; follow setup steps for initial use.

  1. Thread machine: Follow threading guide printed on machine.
  2. Wind bobbin: Place empty bobbin on winder, thread through tension disc.
  3. Insert bobbin: Drop bobbin into case with thread counterclockwise.
  4. Select basic stitch: Choose straight stitch for practice.
  5. Test on scrap fabric: Practice stitching on fabric scraps.

CAUTION! Always turn off power when changing needles or cleaning machine.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Access controls via front panel and stitch selection dial. Main Panel: Power switch, stitch selection dial, stitch length/width controls, reverse button, automatic needle threader.

Stitch Selection: Turn dial to select from 120 built-in stitches. Stitch Length: Adjust from 0-4mm for shorter/longer stitches. Stitch Width: Adjust from 0-7mm for zigzag and decorative stitches. Reverse: Hold button for backstitching. Needle Position: Manual adjustment for up/down position.

Stitch Selection

Choose from 120 built-in stitches for various sewing projects.

  1. Utility Stitches: Straight, zigzag, stretch, and overcast stitches (1-30)
  2. Decorative Stitches: Ornamental patterns for embellishment (31-80)
  3. Quilting Stitches: Special patterns for quilt projects (81-95)
  4. Buttonholes: 7 automatic one-step buttonholes (96-102)
  5. Alphabet: Built-in letters for monogramming (103-120)

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

Threading and Bobbin

Proper threading ensures smooth operation and quality stitches.

  1. Raise presser foot and needle to highest position.
  2. Follow numbered threading guide: Place spool on pin, thread through guides.
  3. Use automatic needle threader: Push lever down and hook thread through needle.
  4. Wind bobbin: Place empty bobbin on winder, thread through tension disc.
  5. Insert bobbin: Drop into case with thread moving counterclockwise.
  6. Pull up bobbin thread: Hold needle thread, turn handwheel toward you.

WARNING! Always disconnect power when threading needle or changing bobbin.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

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

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

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with interference limits for residential use. Copyright © 2024 Elnita; trademarks of Elnita Sewing Products, Inc. For technical support, visit www.elnitasewing.com or contact 1-800-555-ELNITA (356482). Machine complies with UL safety standards for household sewing machines.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Thread breakingIncorrect threading/tensionRethread completely; adjust tension; check for burrs on needle.
Skip stitchesWrong needle/damaged needleReplace needle; ensure correct needle type for fabric.
Bobbin thread bunchingIncorrect bobbin insertionRemove and reinsert bobbin; ensure thread moves counterclockwise.
Machine not runningPower/pedal issuesCheck power connection; ensure pedal is plugged in properly.
Uneven stitchesTension problemsClean tension discs; rethread both top and bobbin threads.
Needle breaksWrong needle size/bent needleUse correct needle for fabric; replace bent needles immediately.

Reset: Turn power off and on to reset electronic functions.

Service: 1-800-555-ELNITA; www.elnitasewing.com

Elnita 120 Sewing Machine Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025