Manual for Singer Sewing Machine Model 3343C

The Singer 3343C is a versatile mechanical sewing machine featuring 23 built-in stitches, one-step buttonhole, adjustable stitch length and width, automatic needle threader, drop-in bobbin system, free arm capability, built-in LED light, and reverse sewing function. Powered by 120V AC, this 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 Settings 6. Stitch Selection Guide 7. Threading and Bobbin 9. Maintenance & Cleaning 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Mechanical sewing machine with 23 stitches, built-in buttonhole, automatic needle threader, drop-in bobbin system, free arm, LED light.

Feature	Description
Built-in Stitches	23 stitches including straight, zigzag, decorative, and stretch stitches
One-Step Buttonhole	Automatic buttonhole creation with consistent results
Automatic Needle Threader	Easy threading with push-button mechanism
Drop-in Bobbin System	Top-loading bobbin with clear cover for easy monitoring
Free Arm	Convertible for sewing cuffs, sleeves, and other tubular items
Built-in LED Light	Bright illumination of sewing area
Stitch Length Control	Adjustable from 0-4mm
Stitch Width Control	Adjustable up to 5mm for zigzag stitches
Reverse Sewing Lever	Reinforce seams with reverse stitching
Power Source	120V AC, 60Hz with foot pedal control

Unpacking and Setup

Carefully unpack all components and place on stable surface.

Remove machine from packaging: Lift machine by base, not handwheel.
Attach accessories: Install foot pedal, power cord, and accessory box.
Position machine: Place on sturdy table with adequate workspace.
Connect power: Plug foot pedal into machine, then plug power cord into wall outlet.

WARNING! Machine is heavy; lift with care using both hands. Keep fingers away from needle area during operation.

First-Time Operation

Prepare machine for initial use following these steps.

Wind bobbin: Place empty bobbin on winder, thread through guides, press foot pedal.
Install bobbin: Drop bobbin into compartment with thread unwinding counterclockwise.
Thread upper needle: Use automatic needle threader or thread manually through guides.
Select stitch: Turn stitch selection dial to desired pattern.
Test sew: Use scrap fabric to test stitch quality and tension.

CAUTION! Always turn handwheel toward you; never force the machine.

Specifications

Model: Singer 3343C Mechanical Sewing Machine
Stitches: 23 built-in stitches
Buttonhole: One-step automatic
Stitch Length: 0-4mm adjustable
Stitch Width: Up to 5mm adjustable
Bobbin System: Top-loading drop-in bobbin
Needle System: HAx1 sewing machine needles
Lighting: Built-in LED
Power Source: 120V AC, 60Hz
Included Accessories: All-purpose foot, buttonhole foot, zipper foot, button sewing foot, seam ripper, needles, bobbins, screwdriver, lint brush

Controls and Settings

Main controls located on front and side of machine.

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

Stitch Selection: Turn dial to select from 23 stitches (straight, zigzag, blind hem, stretch, decorative). Stitch Length: Adjust for shorter/longer stitches (0-4mm). Stitch Width: Adjust zigzag and decorative stitch width (0-5mm). Reverse: Hold lever down for reverse stitching. Tension Control: Adjust thread tension dial (1-9) for balanced stitches.

Stitch Selection Guide

Complete guide to 23 built-in stitches and their applications.

Straight Stitch (1): Basic sewing, topstitching, basting
Zigzag Stitch (2): Seam finishing, appliqué, stretch fabrics
Blind Hem Stitch (3): Nearly invisible hems on garments
Stretch Stitches (4-6): Knits and stretch fabrics
Decorative Stitches (7-23): Scallop, multiple zigzag, honeycomb patterns
Buttonhole Stitch (B): Automatic one-step buttonholes

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

Threading and Bobbin

Proper threading ensures smooth operation and quality stitches.

Upper Threading: Raise presser foot, follow numbered guides from spool to needle.
Automatic Needle Threader: Lower lever, hook thread through hook, return lever.
Bobbin Winding: Place spool on pin, thread through guides, place bobbin on winder.
Bobbin Installation: Open cover, drop bobbin in compartment, pull thread through slot.
Bring Up Bobbin Thread: Hold upper thread, turn handwheel toward you until bobbin thread appears.

WARNING! Always raise needle to highest position before threading.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

Daily: Brush out lint from bobbin area and feed dogs. Monthly: Oil machine according to diagram (use sewing machine oil only). Storage: Cover machine when not in use. Needle Replacement: Replace bent or dull needles immediately.

CAUTION! Unplug machine before cleaning or maintenance. Use only sewing machine oil.

Regulatory Information

UL Listed: Complies with safety standards for household sewing machines. Copyright © 2024 Singer Manufacturing Company. For support, visit www.singer.com or contact 1-800-4-SINGER. Made for household use only.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Machine won't run	Power connection	Check power cord and outlet; ensure foot pedal is plugged in.
Thread breaking	Tension/thread quality	Reduce tension; use quality thread; check for burrs on needle.
Skipped stitches	Needle issues	Replace needle; ensure correct needle type; rethread machine.
Bobbin thread bunching	Bobbin threading	Rethread bobbin; ensure bobbin inserted correctly.
Uneven stitches	Tension settings	Adjust upper and bobbin tension; clean machine.
Machine jams	Thread buildup	Remove upper thread and bobbin; clean race area; rethread.

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