Singer 6180 Brilliance Sewing Machine Manual

The Singer 6180 Brilliance is a computerized sewing machine featuring 80 built-in stitches, automatic needle threader, automatic thread tension, top drop-in bobbin system, built-in stitch selector, variable speed control, automatic one-step buttonhole, free arm capability, and LED lighting. Powered by standard household outlet with foot pedal control. 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. Basic Sewing Operations 8. Maintenance & Cleaning 9. Accessories 10. Safety Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Computerized stitch panel, automatic needle threader, drop-in bobbin system, free arm, LED work light, foot pedal control.

Feature	Description
Built-in stitches	80 stitches including utility, decorative, and stretch
Automatic needle threader	Easy threading with push-pull mechanism
Automatic thread tension	Computer-controlled for perfect stitches
Top drop-in bobbin	Easy bobbin loading with clear cover
One-step buttonhole	Automatic buttonhole with sensor
Variable speed control	Speed adjustment via slide control
Free arm capability	Convertible for sewing cuffs and sleeves
LED lighting	Bright illumination of work area
Stitch length/width adjustment	Customizable stitch settings
Reverse stitch button	For reinforcing seams

Installation & Setup

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

Remove machine from packaging: Lift carefully from carrying case.
Install foot pedal: Connect to power cord port at machine rear.
Connect power: Plug into standard household outlet (120V).
Install needle: Loosen needle clamp screw, insert needle with flat side to back.
Wind bobbin: Follow bobbin winding instructions in manual.

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

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; follow setup procedure.

Thread machine: Follow numbered threading guide on machine.
Insert bobbin: Drop bobbin into case with thread pulling counterclockwise.
Select stitch: Use stitch selection dial to choose desired pattern.
Test sew: Use scrap fabric to test stitch quality and tension.
Adjust settings: Modify stitch length/width as needed for fabric.

CAUTION! Always start with needle in highest position. Use proper needle for fabric type.

Specifications

Stitches: 80 built-in stitches (basic, decorative, stretch)
Buttonholes: One-step automatic with sensor
Needle Positions: Multiple positions available
Stitch Length: Adjustable up to 4mm
Stitch Width: Adjustable up to 5mm
Bobbin: Top drop-in, class 15 transparent
Lighting: LED work light
Power Supply: 120V, 60Hz household current
Machine Weight: Approximately 13.2 lbs
Warranty: 25-year limited warranty

Controls and Settings

Access functions via control panel and dials. Front Panel: Stitch selection dial, stitch length dial, stitch width dial, reverse button.

Additional Controls: Power switch, speed control slider, bobbin winder, thread cutter.

Stitch Settings: Length (0-4mm), Width (0-5mm), needle position. Tension: Automatic with manual override available. Special Functions: Mirror imaging, stitch elongation, memory function for favorite stitches.

Stitch Selection

80 built-in stitches organized by function:

Basic Stitches: Straight stitch, zigzag, stretch stitches
Decorative Stitches: Scallops, waves, leaves, flowers
Buttonhole Stitches: One-step automatic with size memory
Blind Hem Stitches: For invisible hemming
Overcast Stitches: For finishing fabric edges

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

Basic Sewing Operations

Step-by-step sewing procedures:

Raise presser foot and insert fabric under foot
Lower presser foot and begin sewing with foot control
Guide fabric gently; let machine feed fabric
Use reverse stitch to secure seam beginnings/ends
Raise needle to highest position before removing fabric
Use thread cutter on machine back to trim threads
For free arm sewing: Remove accessory storage compartment

WARNING! Never pull fabric through machine - let feed dogs do the work.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance.

Daily: Brush out lint from bobbin area and feed dogs
Weekly: Oil machine according to lubrication points diagram
Monthly: Clean race hook and surrounding areas
As needed: Replace needle after 8-10 hours of sewing

CAUTION! Always unplug machine before cleaning or maintenance.

Accessories

Included accessories and their uses:

Accessory	Purpose
All-purpose foot	General sewing
Zipper foot	Installing zippers
Buttonhole foot	Automatic buttonholes
Button sewing foot	Sewing on buttons
Blind hem foot	Invisible hemming
Seam ripper/brush	Removing stitches and cleaning
Needles	Assorted sizes for different fabrics
Bobbins	Extra class 15 bobbins
Screwdriver	Needle plate removal

Safety Information

Important safety precautions for operation:

Always unplug machine when changing needles, cleaning, or not in use
Keep fingers away from moving parts and needle area
Do not sew over pins - remove them before they reach needle
Use proper needle type and size for fabric being sewn
Ensure adequate lighting in work area
Keep machine on stable, flat surface during operation
Do not use machine if cord or foot control is damaged

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Machine won't start	Power connection	Check power cord; ensure machine is turned on
Thread breaking	Tension/needle issues	Rethread machine; check needle for damage; adjust tension
Uneven stitches	Threading/bobbin	Rethread top and bobbin; clean lint from bobbin area
Fabric not feeding	Feed dogs lowered	Check feed dog position; raise if necessary
Needle breaking	Bent needle/fabric pull	Replace needle; don't pull fabric; use proper needle size
Bobbin thread showing on top	Tension imbalance	Adjust upper tension; ensure bobbin inserted correctly
Machine skipping stitches	Needle/blunt needle	Replace needle; ensure correct needle type for fabric

Service: Contact Singer customer service at 1-800-4-SINGER or visit www.singer.com