Free Dressmaker 2402 Sewing Machine Manual

The Free Dressmaker 2402 is a versatile household sewing machine featuring 24 built-in stitches, 2-step buttonhole function, free arm capability, built-in needle threader, adjustable stitch length and width, top drop-in bobbin system, built-in LED light, and multiple presser feet. Powered by 110-120V AC, this mechanical sewing 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 Functions 6. Stitch Selection Guide 7. Threading and Bobbin 9. Maintenance & Cleaning 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 24 built-in stitches, free arm, built-in needle threader, LED work light, accessory storage, multiple presser feet.

Feature	Description
Built-in stitches	24 stitch patterns including straight, zigzag, and decorative
Buttonhole function	2-step automatic buttonhole
Free arm	For sewing cuffs and sleeves
Needle threader	Built-in automatic needle threading system
LED light	Bright illumination of work area
Stitch length control	Adjustable from 0-4mm
Stitch width control	Adjustable from 0-5mm
Top drop-in bobbin	Easy bobbin loading with clear cover
Presser feet	Includes zipper foot, buttonhole foot, and all-purpose foot
Reverse stitch	Built-in reverse stitching function

Unpacking and Setup

Carefully unpack all components and inspect for damage.

Remove machine from packaging: Lift from base, not handwheel.
Attach power cord: Plug into machine and wall outlet (110-120V AC).
Install foot controller: Connect to machine port.
Attach accessory box: Snap into position on machine.
Install needle: Loosen needle clamp screw, insert needle with flat side to back.

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

First-Time Operation

Prepare machine for initial use following these steps.

Wind bobbin: Place thread on spool pin, guide through tension, wind onto bobbin.
Insert bobbin: Drop into bobbin case with thread clockwise.
Thread upper thread: Follow numbered threading path on machine.
Use needle threader: Push lever down to automatically thread needle.
Select stitch: Turn stitch selection dial to desired pattern.
Test sew: Use scrap fabric to test stitch quality and tension.

CAUTION! Always start with needle in highest position. Keep work area clean and well-lit.

Specifications

Stitches: 24 built-in patterns
Buttonhole: 2-step automatic
Stitch Length: 0-4mm adjustable
Stitch Width: 0-5mm adjustable
Bobbin: Top drop-in system
Needle: Standard domestic 15x1
Light: Built-in LED
Free Arm: Yes, convertible
Power: 110-120V AC, 60Hz
Speed: Up to 800 stitches per minute

Controls and Functions

Main controls located on front and side of machine.

Front Panel: Stitch selection dial, stitch length dial, stitch width dial, reverse stitch button.

Side Controls: Handwheel, power switch, presser foot lever, bobbin winder.

Stitch Selection: Turn dial to select from 24 patterns (straight, zigzag, stretch, decorative). Stitch Length: Adjust for fabric thickness (0-4mm). Stitch Width: Control zigzag and decorative stitch width (0-5mm). Reverse: Hold button for reinforcement stitching. Tension: Adjust upper thread tension dial (2-6 for most fabrics).

Stitch Selection Guide

Choose appropriate stitches for different sewing projects.

Straight stitch (1-4): Basic sewing, topstitching, basting
Zigzag stitch (5-8): Seam finishing, appliqué, stretch fabrics
Decorative stitches (9-20): Embellishment, borders, creative projects
Stretch stitches (21-24): Knits, elastic, activewear
Buttonhole (B): 2-step automatic buttonhole for garments

Tip: Test stitches on fabric scrap before starting project. Adjust tension as needed.

Threading and Bobbin

Proper threading ensures smooth operation and quality stitches.

Upper threading: Follow numbered path from spool pin to needle.
Needle threader: Push lever down, hook catches thread, pull through eye.
Bobbin winding: Place thread on spool pin, guide through bobbin winder tension.
Bobbin insertion: Drop into case with thread moving clockwise.
Bring up bobbin thread: Hold upper thread, turn handwheel toward you.

WARNING! Always raise needle to highest position before threading. Ensure presser foot is raised.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

Daily: Brush out lint from bobbin area and feed dogs.
Weekly: Oil hook race and moving parts (use sewing machine oil only).
Monthly: Clean tension discs with soft brush.
As needed: Replace needle after 8-10 hours of sewing.

CAUTION! Unplug machine before cleaning or maintenance. Use only recommended oils and accessories.

Regulatory Information

UL listed for household use. Complies with FCC Part 15 for electromagnetic compatibility. Copyright © 2025 Free Dressmaker; all rights reserved. For technical support and replacement parts, visit www.freedressmaker.com or contact 1-800-555-SEWING.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Thread breaking	Incorrect threading/tension	Rethread completely; adjust tension; check for burrs on needle.
Skipped stitches	Wrong needle/damaged needle	Replace needle; ensure correct type for fabric; check threading.
Uneven stitches	Tension issues	Adjust upper and bobbin tension; clean tension discs.
Machine jams	Thread buildup	Remove bobbin case; clean lint; rethread carefully.
Needle breaks	Wrong size/bent needle	Use correct needle size; replace bent needle; don't pull fabric.
No power	Power connection	Check wall outlet; ensure power cord fully inserted; check fuse.

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