New Home Sewing Machine Model 108 Manual

The New Home Sewing Machine Model 108 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, drop feed for darning and quilting, built-in light, reverse stitching, and easy threading system. 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. Installation & Setup 3. First-Time Operation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Stitch Selection 7. Threading & Bobbin 8. Maintenance & Cleaning 9. Accessories 10. Safety Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Mechanical sewing machine with free arm, stitch selection dial, tension control, built-in light, foot pedal control, and accessory compartment.

FeatureDescription
Stitch PatternsStraight, zigzag, blind hem, stretch stitches
Stitch LengthAdjustable 0-4mm
Stitch WidthAdjustable 0-5mm
Built-in ButtonholerOne-step automatic buttonholes
Free ArmFor sewing sleeves and cuffs
Drop FeedFor darning and quilting
Reverse StitchFor securing seams
Built-in LightIlluminates work area
Tension ControlAdjustable upper thread tension
Presser FeetIncludes zipper, buttonhole, and general purpose feet

Installation & Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable surface at comfortable working height.

  1. Remove machine from packaging and all protective materials.
  2. Place on sturdy table or sewing cabinet.
  3. Connect foot pedal to machine and power outlet.
  4. Install needle and thread machine following threading guide.
  5. Wind and insert bobbin.

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

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; test basic functions.

  1. Plug into AC power outlet.
  2. Turn stitch selection to straight stitch position.
  3. Place fabric under presser foot and lower foot.
  4. Gently press foot pedal to begin sewing.
  5. Practice basic stitches on scrap fabric.
  6. Adjust stitch length and tension as needed.

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

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Main controls located on front and side of machine.

Stitch Selection Dial: Turn to select desired stitch pattern. Stitch Length Dial: Adjust for shorter or longer stitches. Stitch Width Dial: Control zigzag width. Reverse Stitch Button: Hold for backstitching. Tension Dial: Adjust upper thread tension (4-5 for normal sewing). Presser Foot Lever: Raise and lower presser foot. Hand Wheel: Manual control of needle position.

Stitch Selection

Ten built-in stitches for various sewing applications.

  1. Straight Stitch: Basic sewing, topstitching
  2. Zigzag Stitch: Finishing edges, appliqué
  3. Blind Hem Stitch: Nearly invisible hems
  4. Stretch Stitch: For knit fabrics
  5. Decorative Stitches: Various patterns
  6. Buttonhole Stitch: Automatic one-step

Tip: Always test stitches on scrap fabric before sewing your project.

Threading & Bobbin

Proper threading is essential for good stitch quality.

  1. Raise presser foot and needle to highest position.
  2. Follow numbered threading guide on machine.
  3. Wind bobbin with same thread as upper thread.
  4. Insert bobbin with thread rotating counterclockwise.
  5. Pull bobbin thread up through needle plate.
  6. Hold both threads under presser foot when starting.

WARNING! Use only recommended needle types and sizes for your fabric.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance.

  1. Unplug machine before cleaning.
  2. Remove needle plate and clean lint with brush.
  3. Oil moving parts with sewing machine oil only.
  4. Wipe exterior with soft, dry cloth.
  5. Replace needle after 8-10 hours of sewing.

CAUTION! Never use compressed air to clean machine as it can force lint deeper into mechanism.

Accessories

Standard accessories included with Model 108.

Safety Information

Important safety precautions for sewing machine operation.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Thread breakingIncorrect threading/tensionRethread machine; adjust tension; check for burrs on needle
Uneven stitchesWrong needle/tensionReplace needle; adjust tension; check bobbin
Machine won't runPower/pedal issueCheck power connection; test foot pedal; check if machine is plugged in
Fabric not feedingFeed dogs loweredRaise feed dogs; clean feed dog area
Needle breakingBent needle/wrong sizeReplace needle; use correct size for fabric; don't pull fabric
Bobbin issuesIncorrect winding/insertionRewind bobbin; ensure proper insertion; clean bobbin case

Service: For technical support, contact New Home Customer Service at 1-800-555-1080 or visit www.newhome-sewing.com

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