Singer 247 Sewing Machine Instruction Manual

The Singer 247 is a versatile mechanical sewing machine featuring 23 built-in stitches, 4-step buttonhole, adjustable stitch length and width, free arm capability, built-in needle threader, top drop-in bobbin system, and multiple presser feet. Powered by 110V AC, this machine is ideal for beginners and experienced sewers alike. 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 & Cleaning 9. Accessories Included 10. Safety Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Mechanical sewing machine with built-in stitches, free arm, multiple presser feet, and easy threading system.

FeatureDescription
Built-in Stitches23 stitches including straight, zigzag, decorative, and stretch
4-Step ButtonholeEasy buttonhole creation in four simple steps
Free ArmRemovable extension table for sewing cuffs and sleeves
Built-in Needle ThreaderAutomatic needle threading for easy setup
Top Drop-in BobbinEasy bobbin loading with clear cover
Stitch Length ControlAdjustable from 0-4mm
Stitch Width ControlAdjustable from 0-5mm
Reverse Stitch LeverFor reinforcing seams
Power SwitchTurns machine on/off with built-in light
Foot PedalVariable speed control

Installation & Setup

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

  1. Remove machine from packaging and all protective materials.
  2. Attach power cord to machine and plug into 110V AC outlet.
  3. Install foot pedal and connect to machine.
  4. Remove extension table to access free arm when needed.
  5. Install needle and thread machine following threading guide.

WARNING! Keep fingers away from needle area during operation. Always turn off when not in use.

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; follow step-by-step setup.

  1. Thread machine: Follow numbered threading path on machine.
  2. Wind bobbin: Place thread on spool pin and wind bobbin using bobbin winder.
  3. Insert bobbin: Drop bobbin into bobbin case with thread pulling counterclockwise.
  4. Select stitch: Turn stitch selection dial to desired stitch pattern.
  5. Test sew: Use scrap fabric to test stitch and tension settings.

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

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Main controls located on front and side of machine. Stitch Selection Dial: Rotate to select from 23 stitches. Stitch Length Dial: Adjust from 0-4mm. Stitch Width Dial: Adjust from 0-5mm. Reverse Stitch Lever: Hold down for backstitching. Power Switch: On/off with built-in light.

Additional Features: Built-in needle threader, bobbin winder, thread tension dial, presser foot lifter, hand wheel.

Settings: Thread tension (0-9), presser foot pressure, feed dog position, needle position.

Stitch Selection

23 built-in stitches for various sewing applications.

  1. Straight Stitch: Basic sewing (positions 1-2)
  2. Zigzag Stitch: Overcasting and decorative (positions 3-6)
  3. Blind Hem: Nearly invisible hems (position 7)
  4. Stretch Stitches: For knit fabrics (positions 8-11)
  5. Decorative Stitches: Embellishment (positions 12-23)
  6. Buttonhole: 4-step process (special setting)

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

Threading & Bobbin

Proper threading ensures smooth operation.

  1. Raise needle to highest position using hand wheel.
  2. Place spool on spool pin and follow numbered threading path.
  3. Use built-in needle threader for easy needle threading.
  4. Wind bobbin: Place thread on spool pin, wrap around bobbin winder tension disc.
  5. Insert bobbin: Drop into case with thread pulling counterclockwise.
  6. Pull bobbin thread up through needle plate.

WARNING! Ensure machine is off during threading. Keep fingers clear of needle.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance.

  1. Unplug machine before cleaning.
  2. Remove needle plate and clean lint from bobbin area.
  3. Oil moving parts with sewing machine oil (sparingly).
  4. Wipe exterior with soft, dry cloth.
  5. Replace needle regularly (every 8-10 hours of sewing).

CAUTION! Use only sewing machine oil. Do not use household oils.

Accessories Included

Standard accessories provided with Singer 247.

AccessoryPurpose
All-Purpose FootGeneral sewing
Zipper FootInstalling zippers
Buttonhole FootCreating buttonholes
Button Sewing FootAttaching buttons
Class 15 Bobbins (4)Extra bobbins
Needles (3)Replacement needles
Seam RipperRemoving stitches
BrushCleaning lint
ScrewdriverAdjustments

Safety Information

Important safety precautions for sewing machine operation.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Machine won't startPower cord/switchCheck power connection; ensure switch is on; check outlet
Thread breakingTension/thread qualityReduce tension; use better quality thread; check threading
Skip stitchesNeedle/thread issuesReplace needle; ensure proper threading; check needle type
Bobbin thread bunchingBobbin threadingRethread bobbin; ensure correct insertion; clean bobbin area
Uneven stitchesTension settingsAdjust upper and lower tension; check thread quality
Machine jamsThread buildupTurn off; remove fabric; clean race area; rethread

Service: For technical support, contact Singer Customer Service at 1-800-4-SINGER or visit www.singer.com

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