Old Singer Sewing Machine Instruction Manual

The Old Singer Sewing Machine is a classic mechanical sewing device featuring a durable cast-iron body, manual treadle operation, straight stitch capability, adjustable stitch length, built-in bobbin winder, reverse stitching function, and various presser feet attachments. Designed for heavy-duty fabrics with precision stitching control. 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 Stitching Techniques 8. Maintenance & Oil Points 9. Accessories & Attachments 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Cast-iron body, Treadle mechanism, Bobbin winder, Stitch length regulator, Tension dial, Presser foot, Needle clamp, Hand wheel.

Feature	Description
Treadle mechanism	Foot-powered operation for manual control
Bobbin winder	Built-in bobbin winding system
Stitch length regulator	Adjustable stitch length from 0-4mm
Tension dial	Controls thread tension for perfect stitches
Presser foot	Standard presser foot with quick release
Needle clamp	Secures sewing needle in position
Hand wheel	Manual control for precise needle positioning
Reverse stitch lever	Enables backstitching for seam reinforcement
Thread guides	Multiple guides for proper thread path
Throat plate	Stainless steel plate with stitch markings

Installation & Setup

Unpack and inspect all components. Place on stable wooden table or cabinet.

Assemble treadle cabinet: Atticate treadle to cabinet base using provided hardware.
Mount sewing machine: Secure machine to cabinet using mounting screws.
Install belt: Connect drive belt between hand wheel and treadle mechanism.
Oil machine: Apply sewing machine oil to all designated oil points.

WARNING! Machine is heavy; use proper lifting technique. Ensure all connections are secure before operation.

First-Time Operation

Prepare machine for initial use; follow step-by-step threading.

Thread upper path: Follow numbered guides from spool pin to needle.
Wind bobbin: Engage bobbin winder and fill bobbin evenly.
Insert bobbin: Place bobbin in case with thread pulling counterclockwise.
Test stitching: Use scrap fabric to adjust tension and stitch length.
Practice treadling: Develop smooth, consistent foot motion.

CAUTION! Keep fingers away from moving needle. Always disengage clutch when winding bobbin.

Specifications

Machine Type: Mechanical treadle sewing machine
Stitch Type: Straight stitch only
Stitch Length: Adjustable 0-4mm
Presser Feet: Standard, zipper, buttonhole attachments available
Bobbin Type: Class 66 metal bobbins
Needle System: 15x1 household needles
Thread: All-purpose cotton or polyester
Weight: Approximately 30 lbs (13.6 kg)
Materials: Heavy-duty fabrics including denim, canvas, leather

Controls and Adjustments

Main controls: Stitch length regulator, Tension dial, Presser foot lever, Reverse stitch lever.

Stitch Length: Turn regulator clockwise for longer stitches, counterclockwise for shorter.

Tension Adjustment: Higher numbers for tighter tension (thicker fabrics), lower for looser tension (delicate fabrics).

Presser Foot Pressure: Fixed pressure suitable for most fabrics.

Needle Position: Use hand wheel to raise/lower needle manually.

Threading the Machine

Proper threading is essential for smooth operation.

Raise needle to highest position using hand wheel.
Place thread spool on spool pin.
Follow numbered guides: Through first thread guide, around tension discs, through take-up lever, down to needle.
Thread needle from front to back.
Pull up bobbin thread by turning hand wheel slowly.

Tip: Always thread machine with presser foot raised to open tension discs.

Basic Stitching Techniques

Master fundamental sewing skills with practice.

Starting seam: Hold thread tails, begin with few reverse stitches.
Guiding fabric: Use both hands to guide fabric evenly without pulling.
Maintaining speed: Develop consistent treadle rhythm.
Turning corners: Stop with needle down in fabric, lift presser foot, pivot fabric.
Finishing seams: End with reverse stitches, cut threads with built-in thread cutter.
Seam allowances: Use throat plate markings as guides.

WARNING! Never force fabric through machine. Let feed dogs move fabric naturally.

Maintenance & Oil Points

Regular maintenance ensures longevity and smooth operation.

Weekly oiling: Apply 1-2 drops of sewing machine oil to:

Needle bar
Presser foot bar
Take-up lever
Bobbin case area
Tension assembly
Hand wheel bearing

Monthly cleaning: Remove lint from bobbin area and feed dogs.

CAUTION! Use only sewing machine oil. Wipe excess oil to prevent staining fabric.

Accessories & Attachments

Standard accessories included: Seam ripper, Screwdriver, Extra needles, Bobbins, Oil can.

Optional attachments: Zipper foot, Buttonhole foot, Hemming guide, Quilting bar.

Regulatory Information

Manufactured by Singer Manufacturing Company. This mechanical sewing machine contains no electrical components. For historical reference and replacement parts, contact Singer customer service or authorized dealers. Serial number located on machine bed.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Thread breaking	Incorrect threading/tension	Re-thread completely; reduce tension; check for burrs on needle.
Skipped stitches	Dull/bent needle	Replace needle; ensure proper insertion; check thread quality.
Uneven stitches	Tension imbalance	Adjust upper and bobbin tension; clean tension discs.
Machine hard to pedal	Needs oiling/lint	Oil all points; clean lint from bobbin area; check belt tension.
Fabric not feeding	Presser foot down/feed dogs	Ensure presser foot lowered; clean feed dogs; check stitch length setting.

Professional Service: Contact authorized Singer service center for major repairs.