Fleetwood Sewing Machine Manual

The Fleetwood Sewing Machine is a versatile household sewing machine featuring multiple stitch patterns, adjustable stitch length and width, built-in needle threader, automatic bobbin winding, free arm capability, LED lighting, and variable speed control. Suitable for beginners and experienced sewers alike, this machine handles various fabrics from delicate silks to heavy denim. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Main body with free arm, Stitch selection dial, Tension control, Bobbin case, Presser foot, Needle plate, Power pedal, LED work light.

Installation & Setup

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

1. Remove protective packaging and foam inserts.
2. Attach power cord to machine and plug into grounded outlet.
3. Install foot pedal and connect to machine.
4. Install needle following arrow direction.
5. Wind and insert bobbin according to threading diagram.
6. Thread upper thread using automatic needle threader.

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

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; test basic functions.

1. Select straight stitch: Turn stitch pattern dial to position 1.
2. Set stitch length: Adjust to medium setting (2.5mm).
3. Practice on scrap fabric: Place fabric under presser foot.
4. Lower presser foot lever and begin sewing with foot pedal.
5. Use reverse stitch button to secure beginning and end of seams.
6. Experiment with different stitch patterns and settings.

CAUTION! Always use correct needle for fabric type. Change needle regularly.

Specifications

• Stitch Patterns: 23 built-in stitches
• Stitch Length: 0-4mm adjustable
• Stitch Width: 0-5mm adjustable
• Maximum Sewing Speed: 800 stitches per minute
• Needle System: HA-1, 15x1
• Bobbin Type: Class 15 transparent
• Presser Feet: 4 included (zigzag, zipper, buttonhole, button sewing)
• Power Requirements: 110-120V, 60Hz
• Machine Weight: 12.5 lbs (5.7 kg)
• Warranty: 25-year limited warranty

Controls and Settings

Main controls located on front and side of machine.

Front Panel: Stitch pattern dial, Stitch length dial, Stitch width dial, Reverse stitch button, Thread tension dial.

Stitch Selection: Turn pattern dial to desired stitch (straight, zigzag, stretch, decorative). Stitch Length: Adjust for fabric thickness (shorter for delicate, longer for heavy). Stitch Width: Adjust zigzag and decorative stitch width. Tension Control: Adjust thread tension (higher numbers for tighter tension). Reverse Stitch: Hold button while sewing to reinforce stitches.

Stitch Selection

Choose appropriate stitch for your project.

1. Straight Stitch (1-3): Basic sewing, topstitching, basting
2. Zigzag Stitch (4-6): Finishing edges, appliqué, stretch fabrics
3. Blind Hem Stitch (7): Nearly invisible hems
4. Stretch Stitches (8-10): Knits and stretch fabrics
5. Decorative Stitches (11-23): Embellishments and decorative sewing
6. Buttonhole Stitch (16): Automatic one-step buttonholes

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

Threading & Bobbin

Proper threading ensures smooth operation.

1. Upper Threading: Follow numbered guides from spool to needle.
2. Automatic Needle Threader: Push lever down and hook thread through eye.
3. Bobbin Winding: Place spool on pin, thread through guides, wind bobbin.
4. Bobbin Insertion: Place bobbin in case with thread pulling counterclockwise.
5. Thread Drawing: Hold upper thread, turn handwheel to bring up bobbin thread.

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.
3. Monthly: Clean tension discs with soft brush.
4. As needed: Replace needle after 8-10 hours of sewing.
5. Storage: Cover machine when not in use to prevent dust accumulation.

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

Accessories

Included accessories and optional attachments.

Safety Information

Important safety precautions for machine operation.

• Always unplug machine when changing needles, cleaning, or not in use
• Keep fingers away from moving needle and feed dogs
• Do not pull fabric while sewing - let feed dogs move fabric
• Use proper needle size and type for fabric being sewn
• Ensure work area is well-lit and machine is on stable surface
• Keep hair and loose clothing away from moving parts
• Do not operate if cord or foot pedal is damaged

Troubleshooting

Service: For technical support, contact Fleetwood Customer Service at 1-800-555-1234 or visit www.fleetwoodsewing.com