Instruction Manual for Singer Sewing Machine Model 8280

The Singer Sewing Machine Model 8280 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, reverse sewing function, built-in light, and easy threading system. Suitable for various fabrics including cotton, denim, silk, and knit 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 Guide 7. Maintenance & Cleaning 8. Accessory Usage 9. Safety Information 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Mechanical sewing machine with built-in stitches, Free arm, Stitch selection dial, Tension control, Bobbin winder, Presser foot pressure adjustment, Built-in light.

Feature	Description
Built-in stitches	8 built-in stitch patterns including straight, zigzag, and decorative stitches
Free arm	Removable extension table for sewing cuffs and sleeves
Stitch length control	Adjustable stitch length from 0-4mm
Stitch width control	Adjustable stitch width up to 5mm
Built-in buttonholer	One-step automatic buttonhole function
Reverse sewing	Reverse stitch lever for reinforcing seams
Built-in light	LED light for illuminating work area
Bobbin system	Drop-in bobbin with clear cover
Thread tension	Adjustable upper thread tension control
Power supply	Standard household electrical outlet

Installation & Setup

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

Remove machine from packaging and remove all protective materials.
Attach power cord to machine and plug into electrical outlet.
Install foot controller and connect to machine.
Install needle according to arrow direction and tighten screw.
Wind bobbin and install in bobbin case.
Thread upper thread following numbered guides.

WARNING! Keep fingers away from needle area during operation. Always turn off power when changing needles or cleaning.

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; test basic functions before sewing projects.

Turn stitch selection dial to straight stitch position.
Place scrap fabric under presser foot and lower foot.
Press foot controller gently to begin sewing.
Practice controlling speed with foot controller.
Test reverse stitch function.
Experiment with different stitch patterns.

CAUTION! Always start with scrap fabric. Ensure proper needle installation to prevent damage.

Specifications

Machine Type: Mechanical Sewing Machine
Stitch Patterns: 8 built-in stitches
Stitch Length: 0-4mm adjustable
Stitch Width: Up to 5mm adjustable
Buttonhole: One-step automatic
Free Arm: Yes, removable extension table
Lighting: Built-in LED light
Bobbin Type: Class 15 transparent bobbin
Needle System: HAx1 standard domestic needles
Power Supply: 110-120V, 60Hz
Dimensions: Standard home sewing machine size

Controls and Settings

Main controls located on front and side of machine. Stitch Selection Dial: Choose from 8 stitch patterns. Stitch Length Dial: Adjust from 0-4mm. Stitch Width Dial: Adjust up to 5mm for zigzag stitches.

Additional Controls: Reverse Stitch Lever, Bobbin Winder, Tension Control Dial, Presser Foot Pressure Adjustment, Built-in Light Switch.

Stitch Patterns: Straight stitch, Zigzag stitch, Multiple stretch stitches, Blind hem stitch, Decorative stitches. Tension: Adjust upper thread tension for balanced stitches. Feed Dogs: Adjustable for different fabric types.

Stitch Selection Guide

Choose appropriate stitch for fabric type and sewing purpose.

Straight Stitch: Basic sewing, seams (length 2.0-2.5mm)
Zigzag Stitch: Finishing edges, stretch fabrics (width 2-4mm)
Blind Hem Stitch: Nearly invisible hems
Stretch Stitch: Knits and stretch fabrics
Decorative Stitches: Embellishments and topstitching
Buttonhole Stitch: Automatic one-step buttonholes

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

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

Unplug machine before cleaning or maintenance.
Remove needle plate and clean lint from feed dogs and bobbin area.
Oil machine according to lubrication points diagram (use sewing machine oil only).
Wipe exterior with soft, dry cloth.
Replace needles regularly (every 8-10 hours of sewing).
Check belt tension periodically.

WARNING! Use only sewing machine oil. Never use household oils or lubricants.

Accessory Usage

Standard accessories included: Various presser feet, Bobbins, Seam ripper, Brush, Screwdriver, Spool caps.

Safety Information

Always disconnect power when changing needles, cleaning, or not in use. Keep fingers away from moving parts. Use proper lighting. Do not operate with damaged cord.

CAUTION! Never pull fabric while sewing - let machine feed fabric naturally.

Regulatory Information

UL Listed for household use. Complies with FCC regulations for electromagnetic compatibility. Copyright © Singer Manufacturing Company. For support, visit www.singer.com or contact customer service at 1-800-4-SINGER.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Thread breaking	Incorrect threading/tension	Rethread machine; adjust tension; check for burrs on needle.
Skip stitches	Wrong needle/damaged needle	Replace needle; ensure correct needle type for fabric.
Machine jams	Thread buildup/improper bobbin	Remove upper thread and bobbin; clean race area; rethread.
Uneven stitches	Tension issues	Adjust upper and bobbin tension; check threading.
No power	Power connection	Check power cord connection; ensure foot controller is plugged in.
Needle breaks	Wrong needle/bent needle	Replace needle; ensure needle is properly installed and straight.

Service: Authorized Singer service centers only. 1-800-4-SINGER; www.singer.com