Shark Sewing Machine Manual 612C

The Shark Sewing Machine 612C is a versatile household sewing machine featuring multiple stitch patterns, adjustable stitch length and width, built-in needle threader, free arm capability, automatic bobbin winding, reverse sewing function, built-in LED light, and easy stitch selection dial. Powered by 110-120V AC, this machine is ideal for basic sewing, mending, and creative projects. 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 & Bobbin 8. Maintenance & Care 9. Safety Information 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Stitch selection dial, tension control, presser foot lever, free arm, built-in LED light, automatic bobbin winder, reverse stitch button.

FeatureDescription
Stitch selection dialSelects from 12 built-in stitch patterns
Tension control dialAdjusts thread tension for different fabrics
Presser foot leverRaises and lowers presser foot
Free armRemovable extension for sewing sleeves and cuffs
Built-in LED lightIlluminates sewing area
Automatic bobbin winderWinds bobbin automatically when engaged
Reverse stitch buttonSecures stitches at beginning and end
Stitch length dialAdjusts stitch length from 0-4mm
Stitch width dialAdjusts zigzag width from 0-5mm
Built-in needle threaderAssists with threading needle

Installation & Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable, flat surface.

  1. Remove machine from packaging: Remove all protective materials and foam.
  2. Install foot control: Connect foot control pedal to machine port.
  3. Connect power: Plug power cord into machine and wall outlet (110-120V).
  4. Install needle: Loosen needle clamp screw, insert needle with flat side facing back.
  5. Attach accessories: Install standard presser foot and other accessories.

WARNING! Keep fingers away from needle area during setup and operation.

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; follow setup steps for initial use.

  1. Thread upper thread: Follow threading guide printed on machine.
  2. Wind bobbin: Place empty bobbin on winder, engage bobbin winding mechanism.
  3. Insert bobbin: Place wound bobbin in bobbin case following directional arrows.
  4. Select stitch: Turn stitch selection dial to desired pattern.
  5. Test sew: Use scrap fabric to test stitch and tension settings.

CAUTION! Always turn off machine when changing needles or presser feet.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Main controls located on front and top of machine.

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

Top Controls: Handwheel, bobbin winder, tension control, presser foot lever.

Stitch Selection: Turn dial to select from 12 stitches (straight, zigzag, stretch, decorative). Tension Control: Adjust for different fabric types (lower for lightweight, higher for heavyweight). Stitch Length: Control stitch density (shorter for fine fabrics, longer for basting). Stitch Width: Adjust zigzag width for decorative stitches or buttonholes.

Stitch Selection

12 built-in stitches for various sewing applications.

  1. Straight Stitch: Basic sewing, topstitching (position 1)
  2. Zigzag Stitch: Overcasting, appliqué (position 2)
  3. Three-step Zigzag: Stretch fabrics, mending (position 3)
  4. Blind Hem: Nearly invisible hems (position 4)
  5. Elastic Stitch: Sewing elastic, decorative (position 5)
  6. Shell Stitch: Decorative edge finishing (position 6)
  7. Multiple Decorative Stitches: Positions 7-12 for creative sewing

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

Threading & Bobbin

Proper threading ensures smooth operation.

  1. Upper Threading: Raise presser foot, follow numbered guide from spool to needle.
  2. Needle Threader: Lower threader lever, hook thread through eye, release lever.
  3. Bobbin Winding: Place spool on pin, thread through guide, place bobbin on winder.
  4. Bobbin Insertion: Open bobbin cover, insert bobbin with thread unwinding counterclockwise.
  5. Bring Up Bobbin Thread: Hold upper thread, turn handwheel toward you to catch bobbin thread.

WARNING! Ensure machine is off when threading to prevent accidental starts.

Maintenance & Care

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance.

  1. Cleaning: Remove lint and dust from bobbin area and feed dogs regularly.
  2. Oiling: Apply sewing machine oil to moving parts as specified in manual.
  3. Needle Replacement: Change needle after every 8-10 hours of sewing.
  4. Storage: Cover machine when not in use to prevent dust accumulation.

CAUTION! Unplug machine before performing any maintenance.

Safety Information

Always follow safety guidelines to prevent injury.

Regulatory Information

UL Listed: Complies with UL safety standards. FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with interference limits for residential use. Copyright © 2025 Shark Sewing Machines; all rights reserved. For technical support, visit www.sharksewing.com or contact 1-800-555-1234.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Thread breakingIncorrect threading/tensionRe-thread machine; adjust tension; check for burrs on needle.
Skipped stitchesWrong needle/damaged needleReplace needle; ensure correct needle for fabric type.
Machine not runningPower connection/foot pedalCheck power cord; ensure foot pedal is connected properly.
Uneven stitchesTension issuesAdjust upper and bobbin tension; re-thread machine.
Bobbin thread bunchingIncorrect bobbin insertionRemove and reinsert bobbin following directional arrows.
Needle hitting presser footWrong foot installedInstall correct presser foot for selected stitch.

Service: 1-800-555-1234; www.sharksewing.com

Shark Sewing Machine Manual 612C © - All Rights Reserved 2025