Montgomery Wards Signature Sewing Machine Manual

The Montgomery Wards Signature Sewing Machine is a versatile household sewing machine featuring multiple stitch patterns, adjustable stitch length and width, built-in buttonholer, free arm capability, reverse stitching, built-in light, and easy threading system. Designed for home sewing projects with durable metal construction and smooth operation. 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 7. Threading and Bobbin 9. Maintenance & Cleaning 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Sewing machine head, foot pedal, power cord, accessory box, instruction manual, dust cover.

Feature	Description
Stitch Patterns	Multiple built-in stitches including straight, zigzag, and decorative
Stitch Length Control	Adjustable from 0-4mm
Stitch Width Control	Adjustable up to 5mm for zigzag stitches
Built-in Buttonholer	One-step automatic buttonhole
Free Arm	Removable extension table for sewing cuffs and sleeves
Reverse Stitch	Built-in reverse for securing stitches
Built-in Light	LED work area illumination
Thread Tension	Adjustable upper thread tension
Presser Feet	Multiple included feet: zipper, buttonhole, all-purpose
Power Requirements	120V AC, 60Hz

Unpacking and Setup

Carefully unpack all components and inspect for damage.

Remove machine from packaging: Lift from carrying case, remove protective materials.
Attach power cord: Plug into machine and wall outlet.
Connect foot pedal: Plug into designated port on machine.
Install accessory box: Snap into position on free arm.
Position machine: Place on stable, level surface at comfortable height.

WARNING! Machine is heavy; lift with care using both hands. Ensure stable surface to prevent tipping.

First-Time Operation

Prepare machine for initial use with proper threading and bobbin installation.

Wind bobbin: Follow threading diagram; place bobbin on winder.
Thread upper path: Follow numbered guides from spool to needle.
Insert bobbin: Drop into bobbin case with thread pulling counterclockwise.
Test stitches: Use scrap fabric to test straight and zigzag stitches.
Adjust tension: Fine-tune for balanced stitches on both sides of fabric.

CAUTION! Keep fingers away from needle during operation. Always turn off when threading.

Specifications

Machine Type: Electric Household Sewing Machine
Stitch Patterns: 12 built-in stitches
Stitch Length: 0-4mm adjustable
Stitch Width: 0-5mm adjustable
Buttonhole: One-step automatic
Free Arm: Yes, with removable extension table
Lighting: Built-in LED work light
Presser Feet: 4 included (all-purpose, zipper, buttonhole, blind hem)
Power Source: 120V AC, 60Hz
Weight: 15 lbs
Warranty: 1 year limited

Controls and Settings

Main controls located on front and side of machine body.

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

Side Controls: Handwheel, power switch, light switch, presser foot lever, thread tension dial.

Stitch Selection: Rotate pattern dial to desired stitch symbol. Stitch Length: Turn dial for shorter/longer stitches. Stitch Width: Adjust for zigzag and decorative stitches. Reverse: Hold button for backward stitching. Tension: Adjust dial for different fabric types.

Stitch Selection

Choose from 12 built-in stitches for various sewing applications.

Straight Stitch: Basic sewing, topstitching (position 1)
Zigzag Stitch: Seam finishing, appliqué (position 2)
Blind Hem: Nearly invisible hemming (position 3)
Stretch Stitch: For knit fabrics (position 4)
Decorative Stitches: Various patterns (positions 5-12)
Buttonhole: Automatic one-step (special position)

Tip: Always test stitches on scrap fabric before starting project.

Threading and Bobbin

Proper threading is essential for smooth operation.

Upper Threading: Follow numbered path from spool pin to needle.
Bobbin Winding: Place spool on pin, thread through guides, wind evenly.
Bobbin Insertion: Drop into case with thread pulling counterclockwise.
Needle Installation: Flat side toward back, tighten screw securely.
Thread Tension: Adjust dial for balanced stitches.

WARNING! Ensure machine is off during threading. Never force thread through guides.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

Daily: Brush out lint from bobbin area and feed dogs.
Weekly: Oil moving parts with sewing machine oil (2-3 drops).
Monthly: Clean tension discs with soft brush.
Storage: Cover machine when not in use; store in dry location.

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

Regulatory Information

UL Listed: Complies with UL safety standards. FCC Part 15: Class B digital device. Copyright © Montgomery Wards. For technical support, contact Montgomery Wards Customer Service at 1-800-555-1212 or visit www.montgomerywards.com.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Thread breaking	Incorrect threading/tension	Rethread completely; adjust tension; check for burrs on needle.
Needle breaking	Wrong needle/bent needle	Replace needle; ensure proper installation; don't pull fabric.
Uneven stitches	Tension imbalance	Adjust upper tension; rethread bobbin; clean tension discs.
Machine not running	Power/pedal issues	Check power cord; test outlet; inspect foot pedal connection.
Thread bunching	Bobbin issues	Rethread bobbin; ensure proper insertion; clean bobbin area.
Skip stitches	Needle/blunt needle	Replace needle; use correct needle type for fabric.

Service: 1-800-555-1212; www.montgomerywards.com