Instruction Manual for Singer Sewing Machine Singer Fashion Mate 237

The Singer Fashion Mate 237 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, and easy threading system. 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 7. Threading & Bobbin 8. Maintenance 9. Regulatory Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Mechanical sewing machine with free arm, built-in stitch patterns, reverse lever, stitch length/width controls, built-in buttonholer, drop feed dogs, and accessory storage.

Feature	Description
Stitch Patterns	Multiple built-in stitches including straight, zigzag, decorative
Stitch Length Control	Adjustable from 0-4mm
Stitch Width Control	Adjustable from 0-5mm
Reverse Sewing	Lever for reinforcing stitches
Built-in Buttonholer	One-step automatic buttonholes
Free Arm	Removable extension table for cylindrical sewing
Drop Feed Dogs	Lever to lower feed dogs for darning/free motion
Bobbin System	Front-loading bobbin with clear cover
Thread Tension	Adjustable upper thread tension dial
Presser Feet	Multiple included: zipper, buttonhole, all-purpose

Installation & Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable surface.

Remove packaging: Carefully remove all protective materials and tape.
Attach extension table: Slide onto free arm until it clicks into place.
Install foot controller: Plug into machine's foot pedal port.
Power connection: Plug power cord into wall outlet (120V AC).
Insert 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

Power on machine; follow threading diagram.

Wind bobbin: Place thread on spool pin, follow bobbin winding path.
Thread upper path: Follow numbered threading guide from spool to needle.
Insert bobbin: Place bobbin in case with thread counterclockwise.
Select stitch: Turn pattern selector to desired stitch.
Test sew: Use scrap fabric to test stitch and tension.

CAUTION! Always start with needle in highest position. Keep hands clear of moving parts.

Specifications

Type: Mechanical Sewing Machine
Stitches: 10 built-in stitch patterns
Stitch Length: 0-4mm adjustable
Stitch Width: 0-5mm adjustable
Buttonholes: 1-step automatic
Feed Dogs: Drop feed capability
Free Arm: Yes, with removable extension table
Power Source: 120V AC, 60Hz
Speed Control: Foot pedal controlled
Warranty: 25-year limited warranty

Controls and Settings

Main controls located on front and side of machine.

Front Panel: Stitch pattern selector, stitch length dial, stitch width dial, reverse lever, bobbin winder.

Stitch Length: 0-4mm adjustment (0 for darning). Stitch Width: 0-5mm for zigzag and decorative stitches. Reverse: Hold lever for backstitching. Tension: Dial 4-5 for normal sewing; adjust for different fabrics. Presser Foot Pressure: Adjustable for different fabric thickness.

Stitch Selection

10 built-in stitch patterns including:

Straight Stitch: For general sewing (center needle position)
Zigzag Stitch: For finishing edges and stretch fabrics
Blind Hem: For nearly invisible hems
Elastic Stitch: For knit and stretch fabrics
Decorative Stitches: Multiple pattern options
Buttonhole: Automatic one-step buttonholes

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

Threading & Bobbin

Proper threading is essential for good stitch quality.

Upper threading: Follow numbered path from spool pin to needle.
Bobbin winding: Use bobbin winder on top of machine.
Bobbin insertion: Drop into case with thread counterclockwise.
Thread tension: Upper tension dial 4-5 for balanced stitches.
Needle insertion: Flat side to back, tighten securely.

WARNING! Always raise needle to highest position before threading.

Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance.

Cleaning: Remove lint from bobbin area after each project.
Oiling: Use sewing machine oil on moving parts monthly.
Needle replacement: Change needle after 8-10 hours of sewing.
Storage: Cover machine when not in use; store in dry area.

CAUTION! Unplug machine before cleaning or maintenance.

Regulatory Information

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Thread breaking	Incorrect threading/tension	Rethread completely; reduce tension; check for burrs on needle.
Skip stitches	Wrong needle/damaged needle	Replace needle; ensure correct type for fabric.
Bobbin thread bunching	Incorrect bobbin insertion	Remove and reinsert bobbin; check threading.
Machine not running	Power/pedal issue	Check power connection; ensure pedal is plugged in.
Uneven stitches	Tension imbalance	Adjust upper tension; rethread both upper and bobbin.

Reset: Turn off and unplug for 5 minutes if electronic issues occur.

Service: 1-800-4-SINGER; www.singer.com