Pfaff 260 Sewing Machine Instruction Manual

The Pfaff 260 is a high-quality mechanical sewing machine featuring a built-in needle threader, drop feed for free-motion sewing, built-in stitches, adjustable stitch length and width, reverse sewing function, built-in buttonhole stitch, and accessory storage. Powered by standard household electrical outlet. 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 and Bobbin 8. Maintenance & Cleaning 9. Accessories 10. Safety Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Mechanical sewing head, built-in stitch patterns, drop feed mechanism, built-in needle threader, reverse stitch button, stitch length/width controls, accessory compartment.

FeatureDescription
Built-in needle threaderAutomatically threads needle for easy setup
Drop feed mechanismLowers feed dogs for free-motion sewing
Stitch selection dialSelects from built-in stitch patterns
Reverse stitch buttonReinforces seam beginnings and endings
Stitch length controlAdjusts stitch length from 0-4mm
Stitch width controlAdjusts stitch width for zigzag and decorative stitches
Bobbin winderWinds bobbin automatically while sewing
Accessory storageBuilt-in compartment for feet and accessories
Power and light switchControls machine power and work area lighting
Foot pedalVariable speed control for sewing

Installation & Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable sewing table.

  1. Remove protective packaging and position machine on flat surface.
  2. Connect foot pedal to machine and plug into power outlet.
  3. Install needle: Loosen needle clamp screw, insert needle with flat side to back, tighten screw.
  4. Wind bobbin: Place empty bobbin on winder, thread through tension disc, press pedal to wind.
  5. Insert bobbin: Open bobbin case, insert bobbin with thread pulling counterclockwise.

WARNING! Always unplug machine when changing needles or performing maintenance.

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; follow threading diagram.

  1. Thread upper thread: Follow numbered guides from spool to needle.
  2. Use built-in needle threader: Lower lever to automatically thread needle.
  3. Pull up bobbin thread: Hold upper thread, turn handwheel toward you to bring up bobbin thread.
  4. Test stitches: Use scrap fabric to test stitch settings and tension.
  5. Adjust tension: Upper tension dial for balanced stitches.

CAUTION! Keep fingers away from moving needle during operation.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Main controls located on front and side of machine.

Front Panel: Stitch selection dial, stitch length control, stitch width control, reverse stitch button.

Stitch Selection: Turn dial to select desired stitch pattern. Stitch Length: Adjust for shorter or longer stitches. Stitch Width: Adjust for narrow or wide zigzag stitches. Reverse: Hold button for reverse stitching. Tension Control: Adjust upper thread tension (4-6 for normal fabrics).

Stitch Selection

Built-in stitches for various sewing applications.

  1. Straight Stitch: Position 0 - general sewing
  2. Zigzag Stitch: Position 1 - finishing edges, appliqué
  3. Multiple Zigzag: Position 2 - elastic, decorative work
  4. Blind Hem: Position 3 - nearly invisible hems
  5. Stretch Stitch: Position 4 - knit fabrics
  6. Decorative Stitches: Positions 5-9 - embellishments

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

Threading and Bobbin

Proper threading ensures smooth operation.

  1. Upper Threading: Follow numbered guides from spool pin to needle.
  2. Needle Threader: Lower lever to automatically thread needle.
  3. Bobbin Winding: Place bobbin on winder, thread through tension, press pedal.
  4. Bobbin Insertion: Open cover, insert bobbin with thread pulling counterclockwise.
  5. Bring Up Bobbin Thread: Hold upper thread, turn handwheel toward you.

WARNING! Ensure machine is unplugged when threading bobbin area.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance.

  1. Daily: Brush out lint from bobbin area and feed dogs.
  2. Weekly: Oil moving parts with sewing machine oil.
  3. Monthly: Check needle for damage and replace if necessary.
  4. Storage: Cover machine when not in use to prevent dust accumulation.

CAUTION! Use only sewing machine oil; never use household oils.

Accessories

Included accessories for various sewing tasks.

AccessoryPurpose
Standard Presser FootGeneral sewing
Zipper FootInstalling zippers
Buttonhole FootCreating buttonholes
Button Sewing FootAttaching buttons
Seam RipperRemoving stitches
BrushCleaning lint
Additional BobbinsExtra thread storage
NeedlesVarious sizes for different fabrics

Safety Information

Important safety precautions for machine operation.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Thread breakingIncorrect threading/tensionRe-thread machine; adjust tension; check for burrs on needle.
Skip stitchesWrong needle/damaged needleReplace needle; ensure correct needle for fabric type.
Uneven stitchesTension imbalanceAdjust upper tension; re-thread bobbin; clean bobbin area.
Machine jamsThread buildupRemove bobbin case and clear thread jam; re-thread.
No powerPower connectionCheck power cord; ensure outlet is working; check foot pedal connection.

Service: Contact authorized Pfaff service center for repairs.

Support: www.pfaff.com or contact customer service at 1-800-555-PFAFF

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