Manual for Singer 15-90 Sewing Machine

The Singer 15-90 is a classic straight-stitch sewing machine with oscillating hook system, built-in bobbin winder, reverse stitching capability, adjustable stitch length, and drop feed for darning and free-motion sewing. Features include built-in light, knee lifter compatibility, and all-metal construction. 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. Threading the Machine 7. Basic Sewing Operations 8. Maintenance & Cleaning 9. Accessories 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: All-metal body, oscillating hook, built-in bobbin winder, reverse stitch lever, stitch length regulator, tension control, presser foot lifter.

FeatureDescription
Stitch TypeStraight stitch only
Stitch LengthAdjustable up to 4mm
Reverse StitchingLever-operated for back-tacking
Bobbin SystemClass 15 oscillating hook
Tension ControlUpper thread tension dial
Presser FeetStandard presser foot included
Built-in LightIlluminates work area
Feed DogsDrop feed capability
MotorBuilt-in electric motor
Power SourceStandard electrical outlet

Installation & Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable sewing table.

  1. Position machine: Ensure stable surface with adequate workspace.
  2. Connect power: Plug motor cord into electrical outlet.
  3. Install needle: Loosen needle clamp, insert needle with flat side to back.
  4. Oil machine: Apply sewing machine oil to designated points before first use.
  5. Test operation: Run machine without thread to ensure smooth operation.

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

First-Time Operation

Prepare machine for sewing by following these steps:

  1. Wind bobbin: Place thread on spool pin, wind bobbin using built-in winder.
  2. Insert bobbin: Drop bobbin into case with thread unwinding counterclockwise.
  3. Thread upper path: Follow numbered threading guide from spool to needle.
  4. Set tension: Start with tension dial at 4 for medium-weight fabrics.
  5. Test stitch: Use scrap fabric to test stitch quality and adjust as needed.

CAUTION! Always raise needle to highest position before removing fabric.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Main controls located on machine body: Stitch length regulator, reverse lever, tension dial, presser foot lifter.

Stitch Length: Turn dial clockwise for longer stitches, counterclockwise for shorter.

Reverse Stitch: Push lever down and hold for back-tacking.

Tension Control: Higher numbers for tighter tension, lower for looser.

Presser Foot Pressure: Fixed pressure suitable for most fabrics.

Threading the Machine

Proper threading is essential for good stitch quality.

  1. Raise presser foot and needle to highest position.
  2. Place thread spool on spool pin.
  3. Follow threading path: Through first thread guide, around tension discs.
  4. Thread take-up lever from right to left.
  5. Pass through lower thread guides.
  6. Thread needle from front to back.
  7. Pull about 4 inches of thread toward back of machine.

Tip: Always thread with presser foot raised to open tension discs.

Basic Sewing Operations

Master these fundamental sewing techniques:

  1. Starting: Hold both thread tails, lower presser foot, begin sewing slowly.
  2. Straight stitching: Guide fabric gently, let feed dogs move material.
  3. Back-tacking: Use reverse lever at beginning and end of seams.
  4. Turning corners: Stop with needle down in fabric, lift presser foot, pivot.
  5. Finishing: Raise needle, lift presser foot, pull fabric to back, trim threads.
  6. Darning: Lower feed dogs for free-motion work.

WARNING! Never pull fabric through machine - let feed dogs do the work.

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 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 sewing machine oil.

Accessories

Standard accessories included with Singer 15-90:

Optional accessories available: Zipper foot, buttonhole foot, darning foot, seam ripper.

Regulatory Information

UL Listed: Complies with safety standards for household sewing machines. Copyright © Singer Manufacturing Company. For technical support or replacement parts, contact Singer Customer Service at 1-800-4-SINGER or visit www.singer.com.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Thread breakingIncorrect threading/tensionRe-thread completely; adjust tension; check for burrs on needle.
Skipped stitchesWrong needle/bent needleReplace needle; ensure correct needle type for fabric.
Bobbin thread bunchingIncorrect bobbin insertionRemove and reinsert bobbin; check threading path.
Machine won't runPower/mechanical issueCheck power connection; ensure machine is not locked.
Uneven stitchesTension/timing issueAdjust upper and lower tension; check for timing problems.

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

Manual for Singer 15-90 Sewing Machine © - All Rights Reserved 2025