Old Jones Sewing Machine Manual

The Old Jones Sewing Machine is a classic mechanical sewing machine featuring a durable cast-iron body, manual treadle operation, straight stitch functionality, adjustable stitch length, built-in bobbin winder, reverse stitching capability, and various presser feet attachments. Designed for heavy-duty fabrics and precision sewing, this machine operates without electricity and includes essential accessories like bobbins, needles, and screwdrivers. 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 Adjustments 6. Threading the Machine 7. Basic Sewing Techniques 8. Maintenance & Lubrication 9. Accessories & Attachments 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Cast-iron body, Treadle pedal, Hand wheel, Bobbin case, Presser foot, Stitch length dial, Thread tension control.

Feature	Description
Treadle pedal	Foot-operated power source for manual sewing
Hand wheel	Manual control for precise needle positioning
Bobbin case	Holds bobbin for lower thread supply
Presser foot	Holds fabric in place during sewing
Stitch length dial	Adjusts stitch length from 0-4mm
Thread tension control	Regulates upper thread tension
Reverse stitch lever	Enables backward stitching for seam reinforcement
Built-in bobbin winder	Winds thread onto empty bobbins
Needle clamp	Secures sewing needle in position
Throat plate	Metal plate with stitch guidelines

Installation & Setup

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

Assemble treadle stand: Attach machine head to treadle cabinet using mounting screws.
Install belt: Connect drive belt from hand wheel to treadle mechanism.
Oil the machine: Apply sewing machine oil to all moving parts before first use.
Thread the machine: Follow threading diagram for upper and lower threading.

WARNING! Machine is heavy; use assistance when lifting. Ensure all parts are securely fastened.

First-Time Operation

Prepare machine for sewing; follow step-by-step instructions.

Oil moving parts: Apply oil to bobbin case, needle bar, and treadle joints.
Thread machine: Follow numbered guides for upper threading; wind and insert bobbin.
Test stitch: Use scrap fabric to practice treadle motion and stitch formation.
Adjust tension: Fine-tune thread tension for balanced stitches.

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

Specifications

Machine Type: Mechanical treadle sewing machine
Stitch Type: Straight stitch only
Stitch Length: Adjustable 0-4mm
Speed Control: Manual treadle operation
Bobbin Type: Class 15 metal bobbins
Needle System: 15x1 household needles
Presser Feet: Standard, zipper, buttonhole attachments included
Weight: 28 lbs (machine head only)
Materials: Cast iron body, steel components

Controls and Adjustments

Primary controls: Hand wheel, Stitch length dial, Thread tension dial, Reverse stitch lever.

Adjustments: Stitch length (0-4mm), Thread tension (1-9), Presser foot pressure, Needle position.

Stitch Length: Turn dial clockwise for longer stitches. Thread Tension: Higher numbers for tighter tension. Reverse Stitching: Engage lever for backward sewing. Presser Foot: Lift lever to change fabric or remove.

Threading the Machine

Upper threading: Follow numbered guides from spool to needle. Lower threading: Wind and insert bobbin.

Place thread spool on spindle.
Follow threading path: Through tension discs, take-up lever, and needle.
Wind bobbin: Engage bobbin winder; disengage when full.
Insert bobbin: Place in bobbin case with thread flowing counterclockwise.

Tip: Always raise needle to highest position before threading.

Basic Sewing Techniques

Mastering treadle operation and basic stitches.

Starting: Place fabric under presser foot, lower foot, and begin treadling.
Straight stitching: Guide fabric evenly while maintaining steady treadle rhythm.
Reverse stitching: Engage reverse lever at beginning and end of seams.
Turning corners: Stop with needle down, lift presser foot, pivot fabric.
Finishing: Backstitch, raise needle, lift presser foot, and cut threads.

WARNING! Never force the machine; smooth treadle motion prevents jamming.

Maintenance & Lubrication

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

Daily: Clean lint from bobbin area and feed dogs.
Weekly: Oil all moving parts with sewing machine oil.
Monthly: Check belt tension and adjust if necessary.
Annually: Professional servicing recommended for complete overhaul.

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

Accessories & Attachments

Standard accessories included: Zipper foot, Buttonhole foot, Seam ripper, Screwdrivers, Extra needles, Bobbins.

Attachment	Purpose
Zipper foot	Installing zippers and piping
Buttonhole foot	Creating manual buttonholes
Seam guide	Maintaining consistent seam allowances
Darning plate	Free-motion sewing and darning

Regulatory Information

Manufactured according to traditional sewing machine standards. This mechanical device contains no electrical components. All metal parts comply with industrial safety standards. Copyright © 2025 Old Jones Sewing Machine Co.; all rights reserved. For technical support and replacement parts, contact 1-800-SEW-HELP or visit www.oldjonessewing.com.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Thread breaking	Incorrect tension/threading	Rethread machine; adjust tension; check for burrs on needle.
Skipped stitches	Dull/bent needle	Replace needle; ensure proper insertion.
Machine jams	Thread buildup/improper threading	Clean bobbin area; rethread upper and lower threads.
Uneven stitches	Tension issues	Balance upper and lower thread tension.
Treadle difficult	Needs oiling/belt adjustment	Oil all joints; check belt tension and alignment.

Reset: Disengage drive belt and manually turn hand wheel to free jams.

Service: 1-800-SEW-HELP; www.oldjonessewing.com