Reads Sailmaker Sewing Machine Manual

The Reads Sailmaker Sewing Machine is a heavy-duty industrial sewing machine designed specifically for sailmaking and canvas work. It features a powerful motor, specialized needles for heavy fabrics, adjustable stitch length, reverse stitching capability, heavy-duty feed dogs, built-in thread cutter, and adjustable presser foot pressure. 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. Threading the Machine 7. Stitch Adjustment 8. Maintenance & Cleaning 9. Safety Information 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Heavy-duty motor, specialized sailmaker needles, adjustable stitch mechanism, reverse stitch lever, heavy-duty feed dogs, built-in thread cutter, adjustable presser foot.

FeatureDescription
MotorHeavy-duty industrial motor for thick fabrics
Needle SystemSpecialized sailmaker needles for canvas and sailcloth
Stitch LengthAdjustable from 2-8mm for various fabric thicknesses
Reverse StitchBuilt-in reverse for securing stitches
Feed DogsHeavy-duty feed system for multiple layers
Thread CutterBuilt-in cutter for convenience
Presser FootAdjustable pressure for different materials
Bobbin SystemIndustrial class bobbin for continuous sewing
Speed ControlVariable speed pedal for precision work
Table MountIndustrial table mounting system

Installation & Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Mount on stable industrial table.

  1. Table mounting: Secure machine to industrial table using provided bolts and brackets.
  2. Motor installation: Connect motor to machine head following wiring diagram.
  3. Pedal connection: Connect foot pedal to motor control unit.
  4. Power connection: Plug into appropriate power outlet (check voltage requirements).
  5. Needle installation: Insert appropriate sailmaker needle following safety procedures.

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

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; perform initial setup procedures.

  1. Thread the machine: Follow threading guide for upper and lower threads.
  2. Test stitching: Use scrap fabric to test stitch quality and tension.
  3. Adjust tension: Set appropriate thread tension for your material.
  4. Stitch length: Set desired stitch length for your project.
  5. Presser foot pressure: Adjust according to fabric thickness.

CAUTION! Always wear safety glasses. Keep fingers away from needle area during operation.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Main controls: Stitch length dial, reverse stitch lever, tension adjustment, presser foot pressure control, bobbin winder.

Operation: Power switch, foot pedal speed control, hand wheel, thread cutter.

Stitch Adjustment: Stitch length dial (2-8mm), thread tension dial, bobbin tension screw. Presser Foot: Pressure adjustment knob for different fabric thicknesses. Reverse: Lever for back-tacking. Bobbin Winder: Automatic bobbin winding system.

Threading the Machine

Proper threading is essential for optimal performance.

  1. Upper threading: Follow numbered guides from spool to needle.
  2. Bobbin threading: Wind bobbin evenly and insert into bobbin case.
  3. Tension setting: Set upper and lower tension according to fabric.
  4. Test stitching: Always test on scrap material before starting project.

Tip: Use appropriate thread weight for your sailmaking project.

Stitch Adjustment

Customize stitches for different sailmaking applications.

  1. Stitch length: Turn dial for longer or shorter stitches (2-8mm).
  2. Thread tension: Adjust upper and lower tension for balanced stitches.
  3. Reverse stitching: Use lever to secure beginning and end of seams.
  4. Presser foot pressure: Adjust for thick or multiple layers of canvas.
  5. Needle position: Ensure needle is properly aligned and secured.

WARNING! Always turn off power before making adjustments to the machine.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures long machine life and optimal performance.

  1. Daily: Clean lint and dust from bobbin area and feed dogs.
  2. Weekly: Oil moving parts according to lubrication chart.
  3. Monthly: Check belt tension and motor alignment.
  4. Annually: Professional service and calibration recommended.

CAUTION! Always unplug machine before cleaning or maintenance.

Safety Information

Always follow safety procedures when operating industrial sewing equipment.

Regulatory Information

CE Certified: Complies with European machinery safety standards. UL Listed: Meets electrical safety standards. Copyright © 2025 Reads Industrial Sewing Equipment; all rights reserved. For technical support, visit www.reads-sewing.com or contact 1-800-READS-SEW.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Thread breakingIncorrect tension/needleCheck tension settings; replace needle; use proper thread.
Skipped stitchesWrong needle/bent needleReplace with correct sailmaker needle; check needle alignment.Machine jamsThread buildup/improper threadingClean bobbin area; rethread machine properly.
Uneven feedingFeed dog issues/pressureClean feed dogs; adjust presser foot pressure.
Motor not runningPower/pedal issuesCheck power connection; inspect foot pedal cord.
Poor stitch qualityTension/timing issuesAdjust thread tension; check machine timing.
Excessive noiseLack of lubrication/loose partsLubricate according to manual; tighten loose components.
Needle breakingWrong needle/bent needleUse correct sailmaker needles; check for bent needle.

Professional Service: For complex issues, contact authorized Reads service center.

Support: 1-800-READS-SEW; www.reads-sewing.com

Reads Sailmaker Sewing Machine Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025