singer 513 sewing machine manual

The Singer 513 sewing machine is a versatile mechanical sewing machine with straight and zigzag stitching capabilities, built-in buttonholer, adjustable stitch length and width, free arm design, built-in light, reverse stitching function, and multiple presser feet. Powered by 120V AC, 60Hz. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Threading the Machine 7. Basic Stitching 8. Maintenance & Cleaning 9. Regulatory Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Mechanical sewing head, free arm, built-in light, stitch selection dial, tension control, bobbin winder, and multiple presser feet.

FeatureDescription
Stitch selection dialFor selecting straight and zigzag stitches
Stitch length controlAdjusts stitch length from 0-4mm
Stitch width controlAdjusts zigzag width from 0-5mm
Reverse stitch leverFor reinforcing stitches
Built-in buttonholerOne-step automatic buttonholes
Free armFor sewing cuffs and sleeves
Built-in lightIlluminates sewing area
Bobbin winderAutomatically winds bobbin
Tension controlAdjusts upper thread tension
Presser foot pressureAdjustable for different fabrics

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable surface.

  1. Remove machine from packaging: Lift carefully from case.
  2. Install foot controller: Plug into machine's foot controller port.
  3. Connect power: Plug power cord into machine and wall outlet.
  4. Install accessories: Attach standard presser foot and needle.
  5. Oil machine: Apply sewing machine oil to designated points.

WARNING! Machine is heavy; lift with care to avoid injury. Ensure all connections are secure.

First-Time Setup

Power on machine; test basic functions.

  1. Thread machine: Follow threading diagram for upper and lower threading.
  2. Insert needle: Ensure flat side faces back; tighten securely.
  3. Wind bobbin: Place empty bobbin on winder; thread through tension disc.
  4. Test stitches: Select straight stitch; sew on scrap fabric.
  5. Adjust tension: Check stitch formation; adjust as needed.

CAUTION! Keep fingers away from needle area during operation.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Access controls via dials and levers on machine body.

Main Controls: Stitch selection dial, stitch length control, stitch width control, reverse stitch lever, tension control dial.

Stitch Selection: Turn dial to select straight or zigzag stitch. Stitch Length: Adjust for shorter or longer stitches. Stitch Width: Control zigzag width. Reverse: Hold lever for backstitching. Tension: Adjust for balanced stitches (normal setting 4-5). Presser Feet: Snap-on system for quick changes.

Threading the Machine

Proper threading is essential for good stitch quality.

  1. Raise presser foot and needle to highest position.
  2. Place spool on spool pin; follow threading guide numbers.
  3. Thread through tension discs and take-up lever.
  4. Thread needle from front to back.
  5. Wind bobbin: Place on winder; depress handwheel.
  6. Insert bobbin: Follow diagram for correct placement.
  7. Pull up bobbin thread: Hold upper thread; turn handwheel.

Tip: Always thread with presser foot raised to open tension discs.

Basic Stitching

Supports various fabrics and sewing techniques.

  1. Straight stitch: Select straight stitch setting; adjust length as needed.
  2. Zigzag stitch: Turn width dial for decorative or finishing stitches.
  3. Reverse stitching: Hold reverse lever to reinforce seam beginnings/ends.
  4. Buttonholes: Use one-step buttonholer with buttonhole foot.
  5. Free arm sewing: Remove accessory tray for sleeves and cuffs.
  6. Gathering: Use longer stitch length and increased tension.
  7. Topstitching: Use longer stitch length and matching thread.

WARNING! Always turn handwheel toward you; never force machine.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Unplug before maintenance. Clean lint regularly; oil moving parts monthly.

  1. Remove needle plate: Clean feed dog and bobbin area.
  2. Brush lint: Use small brush to remove accumulated lint.
  3. Oil machine: Apply sewing machine oil to designated points.
  4. Check needle: Replace bent or dull needles immediately.
  5. Store properly: Cover machine when not in use.

CAUTION! Use only sewing machine oil; never use household oils.

Regulatory Information

UL Listed: Certified for safety standards. Copyright © 2025 Singer; trademarks of Singer Licensing Company. For support, visit www.singer.com or contact 1-800-4-SINGER. Made for household use only.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Thread breakingIncorrect threading/tensionRethread completely; adjust tension; check for burrs.
Needle breakingBent needle/wrong sizeReplace needle; ensure correct size for fabric.
Uneven stitchesTension imbalanceAdjust upper and bobbin tension; rethread.
Machine jamsThread jam in bobbinRemove needle plate; clean bobbin area; rethread.
No powerPower connectionCheck power cord; ensure foot controller plugged in.
Skip stitchesDull needle/wrong typeReplace needle; use correct needle for fabric.

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

Singer 513 Sewing Machine Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025