Manual for Singer Treadle Sewing Machine

The Singer Treadle Sewing Machine is a classic foot-powered sewing machine featuring cast iron construction, treadle mechanism, shuttle bobbin system, tension control, stitch length adjustment, presser foot, and manual reverse. Designed for durability and reliability, this machine operates without electricity using a foot pedal treadle system. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation and Setup 3. First-Time Operation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Adjustments 6. Threading the Machine 7. Basic Sewing Operations 8. Maintenance and Care 9. Safety Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Cast iron body, treadle mechanism, shuttle bobbin system, tension dial, stitch length regulator, presser foot, needle clamp, hand wheel.

FeatureDescription
Treadle mechanismFoot-powered operation system
Shuttle bobbin systemTraditional bobbin loading mechanism
Tension dialAdjusts thread tension for different fabrics
Stitch length regulatorControls stitch spacing
Presser footHolds fabric in place during sewing
Needle clampSecures sewing needle in position
Hand wheelManual control of needle position
Reverse leverAllows backward stitching
Bobbin winderWinds thread onto bobbin
Thread guidesDirect thread path from spool to needle

Installation and Setup

Unpack and inspect all components. Place on stable, level surface.

  1. Assemble treadle cabinet: Follow cabinet assembly instructions provided.
  2. Mount sewing machine: Secure machine to cabinet using mounting screws.
  3. Install belt: Connect treadle belt between wheel and treadle mechanism.
  4. Oil machine: Apply sewing machine oil to all moving parts before first use.
  5. Thread machine: Follow threading diagram for upper and lower threading.

WARNING! Machine is heavy; use proper lifting techniques. Ensure cabinet is stable before operation.

First-Time Operation

Before sewing, prepare machine and practice treadle motion.

  1. Practice treadling: Sit comfortably and practice smooth, rhythmic foot motion.
  2. Test without thread: Run machine without fabric to ensure smooth operation.
  3. Thread machine: Complete upper and lower threading according to diagrams.
  4. Test stitch: Use scrap fabric to test stitch formation and tension.
  5. Adjust tension: Fine-tune tension dial for balanced stitches.

CAUTION! Keep fingers away from moving needle. Always turn hand wheel toward you.

Specifications

Controls and Adjustments

Main controls: Tension dial, stitch length regulator, presser foot lever, reverse lever, hand wheel.

Tension Adjustment: Turn tension dial clockwise to increase tension, counterclockwise to decrease. Proper tension shows balanced stitches on both sides of fabric.

Stitch Length: Adjust stitch length regulator for shorter or longer stitches. Lower numbers for shorter stitches, higher for longer.

Presser Foot Pressure: Some models allow adjustment of presser foot pressure for different fabric thicknesses.

Threading the Machine

Proper threading is essential for smooth operation.

  1. Upper threading: Follow numbered guides from spool pin to needle.
  2. Thread take-up lever: Ensure thread passes through take-up lever properly.
  3. Needle threading: Thread needle from front to back.
  4. Bobbin winding: Use bobbin winder with presser foot raised.
  5. Bobbin insertion: Place bobbin in shuttle with thread pulling counterclockwise.
  6. Bring up bobbin thread: Hold upper thread and turn hand wheel to catch bobbin thread.

Tip: Always raise presser foot when threading to release tension disks.

Basic Sewing Operations

Master these fundamental sewing techniques.

  1. Starting: Place fabric under presser foot, lower foot, and begin treadling.
  2. Guiding fabric: Guide fabric gently without pulling or pushing.
  3. Reverse stitching: Use reverse lever at beginning and end of seams.
  4. Turning corners: Stop with needle down, lift presser foot, pivot fabric.
  5. Finishing: Backstitch, raise needle, lift presser foot, and remove fabric.
  6. Changing direction: Use hand wheel to position needle up or down as needed.

WARNING! Never force the machine. If it binds, stop immediately and investigate cause.

Maintenance and Care

Regular maintenance ensures long machine life.

  1. Daily: Brush out lint and dust from bobbin area and feed dogs.
  2. Weekly: Oil all moving parts with sewing machine oil.
  3. Monthly: Check belt tension and adjust if necessary.
  4. Seasonal: Clean and oil treadle mechanism.
  5. Storage: Cover machine when not in use to prevent dust accumulation.

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

Safety Information

Always follow these safety guidelines.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Thread breakingIncorrect tension or threadingRe-thread machine; adjust tension; check for burrs on needle
Skip stitchesBent needle or incorrect needleReplace needle; ensure correct needle type
Uneven stitchesTension imbalanceAdjust upper and lower tension balance
Machine hard to treadleNeeds oiling or lint buildupClean and oil machine; check for obstructions
Fabric not feedingPresser foot pressure or feed dogsAdjust presser foot; clean feed dogs
Noisy operationLack of lubricationOil all moving parts according to diagram

Professional Service: For major repairs, contact authorized Singer service center.

Parts and Support: Visit www.singer.com or contact customer service for genuine parts.

Manual for Singer Treadle Sewing Machine © - All Rights Reserved 2025