Singer 247 Sewing Machine Manual

The Singer 247 is a versatile mechanical sewing machine designed for home use, featuring multiple stitch patterns, adjustable stitch length and width, built-in buttonholer, free arm capability, drop feed for darning and quilting, built-in light, reverse sewing function, and easy threading system. 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 7. Threading & Bobbin 8. Maintenance & Cleaning 9. Accessories 10. Safety Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Mechanical sewing machine body, Foot pedal, Power cord, Accessory box, Instruction manual.

FeatureDescription
Stitch patternsMultiple built-in stitches including straight, zigzag, decorative
Stitch length controlAdjustable from 0-4mm
Stitch width controlAdjustable from 0-5mm
Built-in buttonholerOne-step automatic buttonhole
Free armRemovable extension table for sewing cuffs and sleeves
Drop feedFor darning, quilting, and free-motion sewing
Reverse leverFor reinforcing stitches
Built-in lightIlluminates sewing area
Bobbin systemTop-loading bobbin with clear cover
Thread tensionAdjustable upper thread tension

Installation & Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable surface.

  1. Position machine: Place on sturdy table or sewing cabinet.
  2. Connect foot pedal: Plug into machine port.
  3. Connect power: Plug power cord into machine and wall outlet.
  4. Install needle: Loosen needle clamp screw, insert needle with flat side to back, tighten screw.
  5. Wind bobbin: Follow threading diagram for bobbin winding.

WARNING! Keep fingers away from needle area during operation. Unplug when not in use.

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; follow threading instructions.

  1. Thread upper thread: Follow numbered threading path from spool to needle.
  2. Insert bobbin: Place bobbin in case with thread unwinding counterclockwise.
  3. Pull up bobbin thread: Hold upper thread, turn handwheel toward you.
  4. Select stitch: Turn stitch selector dial to desired pattern.
  5. Test sew: Use scrap fabric to test stitch quality and tension.

CAUTION! Always use proper needle for fabric type. Change needle regularly.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Main controls: Stitch selector dial, Stitch length dial, Stitch width dial, Reverse lever, Handwheel.

Stitch Selection: Turn dial to select straight, zigzag, stretch, or decorative stitches.

Stitch Length: 0 for darning, 1-4 for normal sewing (higher numbers = longer stitches).

Stitch Width: 0 for straight stitch, 1-5 for zigzag width.

Reverse: Press and hold lever to sew in reverse for reinforcement.

Tension: Adjust dial for different fabrics (lower numbers for lighter fabrics).

Stitch Selection

Available stitches include straight, zigzag, blind hem, stretch, and decorative patterns.

  1. Straight stitch: For basic sewing, topstitching, basting
  2. Zigzag stitch: For finishing edges, appliqué, stretch fabrics
  3. Blind hem: For nearly invisible hems
  4. Stretch stitches: For knit fabrics
  5. Decorative stitches: For embellishment
  6. Buttonhole: Automatic one-step buttonhole

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

Threading & Bobbin

Proper threading is essential for good stitch quality.

  1. Upper threading: Follow numbered path - spool pin, thread guides, tension discs, take-up lever, needle.
  2. Bobbin winding: Place spool on pin, thread through bobbin winder tension, place empty bobbin on winder.
  3. Bobbin insertion: Place bobbin in case with thread unwinding counterclockwise, pull thread through slot.
  4. Thread pickup: Hold upper thread, turn handwheel to bring bobbin thread up through needle plate.

WARNING! Always raise needle to highest position before threading.

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 (check manual for oiling points).
  3. Monthly: Clean tension discs with folded fabric or dental floss.
  4. As needed: Replace needle after 8-10 hours of sewing.

CAUTION! Unplug machine before cleaning or maintenance.

Accessories

Standard accessories included with Singer 247:

Safety Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with interference limits for residential use. Copyright © Singer Manufacturing Company. For support, visit www.singer.com or contact 1-800-4-SINGER.

Important Safety Rules:

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Thread breakingImproper threading/tensionRethread completely; adjust tension; check for burrs on needle.
Skip stitchesWrong needle/bent needleReplace needle; ensure correct needle for fabric.
Bobbin issuesImproper winding/insertionRewind bobbin evenly; ensure correct insertion direction.
Machine jamsThread buildupRemove bobbin case and clear thread jams; rethread.
Uneven stitchesTension problemsAdjust upper and bobbin tension; check threading.
No powerPower connectionCheck power cord connections; ensure foot pedal is plugged in.

Service: 1-800-4-SINGER; www.singer.com

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