Singer 834 Sewing Machine Manual

The Singer 834 is a classic mechanical sewing machine designed for home use, featuring straight and zigzag stitches, built-in buttonholer, reverse stitching capability, adjustable stitch length and width, free arm design, built-in light, and drop feed for darning and free-motion sewing. Powered by 120V AC, this durable machine is ideal for beginners and experienced sewers alike. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Mechanical sewing head, stitch selection dial, tension control, bobbin winder, free arm, built-in light, foot pedal control.

Installation & Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable surface at comfortable height.

1. Remove machine from packaging: Lift carefully from carrying case.
2. Position machine: Place on sturdy table with extension table attached.
3. Connect foot pedal: Plug into machine's pedal port.
4. Connect power: Plug power cord into 120V AC outlet.
5. Install needle: Loosen needle clamp screw, insert needle with flat side to back.
6. Wind bobbin: Follow bobbin winding instructions in threading section.

WARNING! Machine is heavy; lift with care to avoid injury. Ensure stable surface before operation.

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; follow threading guide printed on machine.

1. Thread upper thread: Follow numbered guide from spool pin to needle.
2. Insert bobbin: Place bobbin in bobbin case with thread pulling counterclockwise.
3. Raise bobbin thread: Hold upper thread, turn handwheel toward you to catch bobbin thread.
4. Select stitch: Turn stitch selection dial to desired pattern.
5. Adjust settings: Set stitch length and width as needed.
6. Test sew: Use scrap fabric to test stitch quality and tension.

CAUTION! Keep fingers away from needle area during operation. Always turn off when threading.

Specifications

• Machine Type: Mechanical sewing machine
• Stitches: Straight, zigzag, 4-step buttonhole, blind hem, stretch stitches
• Stitch Length: 0-4mm adjustable
• Stitch Width: 0-5mm adjustable for zigzag
• Buttonhole: 4-step built-in
• Presser Feet: Standard, zipper, buttonhole, button sewing, darning
• Bobbin: Class 15 transparent
• Needle: Standard domestic 15x1
• Power Source: 120V AC, 60Hz
• Weight: Approximately 12.5 lbs (5.7 kg)

Controls and Settings

Main controls located on front and side of machine. Stitch Selection Dial: Choose from straight, zigzag, blind hem, stretch stitches. Stitch Length Control: Adjust from 0 (darning) to 4 (basting). Stitch Width Control: Adjust zigzag width from narrow to wide. Reverse Stitch Lever: Hold down for backward stitching. Tension Dial: Adjust thread tension (4-5 for normal sewing).

Additional Features: Bobbin winder stop, handwheel, presser foot lever, feed dog control lever, built-in light switch.

Stitch Selection

Available stitches marked on stitch selection dial:

1. Straight stitch: For general sewing (center needle position)
2. Zigzag stitch: For finishing edges and decorative work
3. Blind hem stitch: For nearly invisible hems
4. Stretch stitches: For knit fabrics
5. Buttonhole stitch: 4-step process for perfect buttonholes
6. Decorative stitches: Varied zigzag patterns

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

Threading & Bobbin

Proper threading essential for good stitch quality.

1. Upper threading: Raise presser foot, follow numbered guide from spool pin through tension discs to needle.
2. Bobbin winding: Place spool on pin, thread through bobbin winder tension, press bobbin onto winder shaft, engage winder, depress foot pedal.
3. Bobbin insertion: Open bobbin cover, place bobbin with thread pulling counterclockwise, pull thread through slot.
4. Raising bobbin thread: Hold upper thread, turn handwheel toward you until needle goes down and up, pull upper thread to bring up bobbin thread.

WARNING! Ensure presser foot is raised when threading upper thread for proper tension.

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 (2-3 drops).
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. Use only sewing machine oil.

Accessories

Standard accessories included:

• Standard presser foot
• Zipper foot
• Buttonhole foot
• Button sewing foot
• Darning/embroidery foot
• Seam ripper/lint brush
• Extra needles
• Class 15 bobbins (4)
• Screwdriver

Safety Information

Always follow safety guidelines to prevent injury.

• Keep fingers away from moving needle
• Unplug when not in use and during maintenance
• Use proper lighting to see sewing area clearly
• Keep hair and loose clothing away from moving parts
• Do not operate if cord or foot pedal is damaged
• Keep machine dry and away from heat sources

Troubleshooting

Service: For professional service, contact authorized Singer service center.

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