Rex 26 188 Sewing Manual

The Rex 26 188 is a versatile sewing machine designed for home use with 26 built-in stitches, automatic needle threader, adjustable stitch length and width, built-in LED light, free arm capability, drop feed for darning and quilting, built-in buttonhole stitch, reverse sewing function, and variable speed control. Powered by 120V AC, 60Hz. 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 Guide 7. Threading & Bobbin 8. Maintenance & Cleaning 9. Accessories 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 26 built-in stitches, automatic needle threader, free arm, LED work light, stitch length/width dials, reverse button, power/speed control.

FeatureDescription
Built-in stitches26 different stitch patterns including utility, decorative, and stretch
Automatic needle threaderEasy threading with built-in mechanism
Free arm capabilityFor sewing cuffs, sleeves, and other tubular items
LED work lightBright illumination of sewing area
Stitch length dialAdjustable from 0-4mm
Stitch width dialAdjustable from 0-5mm
Reverse sewing buttonFor reinforcing stitches at beginning and end
Power/speed controlFoot pedal with variable speed control
Drop feed dogFor darning, quilting, and free-motion sewing
Built-in buttonholeOne-step automatic buttonhole stitch

Installation & Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable surface.

  1. Remove packaging materials and protective covers.
  2. Attach power cord to machine and plug into AC outlet.
  3. Install foot pedal and connect to machine.
  4. Install needle following proper orientation.
  5. Wind and install bobbin according to instructions.
  6. Thread upper thread using automatic needle threader.

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. Select straight stitch: Turn stitch selector to position 1.
  2. Set stitch length: Adjust to 2.5mm for general sewing.
  3. Practice on scrap fabric: Test stitching and reverse function.
  4. Experiment with speed control: Use foot pedal to control sewing speed.
  5. Test automatic needle threader: Follow threading guide.
  6. Try free arm: Remove accessory storage for tubular sewing.

CAUTION! Always start with needle in highest position. Keep work area well-lit.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Main controls: Stitch pattern selector, stitch length dial, stitch width dial, reverse button, hand wheel.

Stitch Selection: Turn dial to select from 26 built-in stitches including straight, zigzag, stretch, and decorative patterns.

Stitch Adjustment: Length dial controls stitch spacing; width dial controls zigzag width. Reverse button reinforces stitches. Hand wheel manually raises/lowers needle.

Stitch Selection Guide

Patterns 1-8: Basic utility stitches. Patterns 9-16: Decorative stitches. Patterns 17-26: Stretch and specialty stitches.

  1. Straight stitch: General sewing, topstitching
  2. Zigzag stitch: Seam finishing, appliqué
  3. Three-step zigzag: Elastic application, mending
  4. Blind hem stitch: Nearly invisible hems
  5. Stretch stitch: Knits and stretch fabrics
  6. Decorative stitches: Embellishment and trim
  7. Buttonhole stitch: Automatic one-step buttonholes
  8. Satin stitches: Dense zigzag for decorative work

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

Threading & Bobbin

Proper threading ensures smooth operation and prevents jams.

  1. Raise needle to highest position using hand wheel.
  2. Place spool on spindle and follow threading guide.
  3. Use automatic needle threader for easy threading.
  4. Wind bobbin with same thread as upper thread.
  5. Insert bobbin with thread unwinding counterclockwise.
  6. Pull bobbin thread up through needle plate.

WARNING! Ensure machine is unplugged during threading and bobbin changes.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

  1. Unplug machine before cleaning or maintenance.
  2. Remove needle plate to clean lint and debris.
  3. Oil moving parts as specified in maintenance schedule.
  4. Clean bobbin area regularly with small brush.
  5. Check needle for damage and replace regularly.
  6. Store machine covered when not in use.

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

Accessories

Standard accessories included: Various presser feet, bobbins, needles, seam ripper, brush, screwdriver.

AccessoryUse
All-purpose footGeneral sewing
Zipper footZippers and piping
Buttonhole footAutomatic buttonholes
Button sewing footAttaching buttons
Blind hem footNearly invisible hems
Overcasting footSeam finishing

Regulatory Information

UL Listed: Complies with safety standards for household sewing machines. FCC Part 15: Class B digital device. Copyright © 2025 Rex Sewing Machines; all rights reserved. For technical support, visit www.rexsewing.com or contact 1-800-REX-SEW1.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Thread breakingIncorrect threading/tensionRethread completely; adjust tension; check for burrs on needle.
Needle breakingWrong needle/bent needleReplace needle; ensure correct size for fabric; check needle insertion.
Skipped stitchesDull needle/wrong needleReplace needle; use ballpoint for knits; check threading.
Machine jamsLint buildup/thread tangleClean bobbin area; remove tangled thread; rethread.
Uneven stitchesIncorrect tensionAdjust upper and bobbin tension; check threading.
No powerPower cord/foot pedalCheck power connection; ensure foot pedal is plugged in; check outlet.

Service: 1-800-REX-SEW1; www.rexsewing.com

Rex 26 188 Sewing Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025