Singer Scholastic 6510 Sewing Machine Manual

The Singer Scholastic 6510 is a versatile mechanical sewing machine designed for beginners and home sewers. It features 10 built-in stitches, 4-step buttonhole, adjustable stitch length and width, built-in free arm, drop feed for darning and free-motion sewing, built-in thread cutter, and easy stitch selection dial. Powered by 110V AC, this reliable machine is perfect for basic sewing projects, repairs, and creative crafts.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Connecting Accessories 7. Basic Sewing Operations 8. Maintenance Features 9. Care & Cleaning 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Mechanical sewing machine with built-in stitches, stitch selection dial, free arm, accessory compartment, and power cord.

FeatureDescription
Built-in stitches10 different stitches including straight, zigzag, and decorative
4-step buttonholeEasy buttonhole creation in four simple steps
Stitch length controlAdjustable from 0-4mm
Stitch width controlAdjustable up to 5mm for zigzag stitches
Free armBuilt-in free arm for sewing cuffs and sleeves
Drop feedLower feed dogs for darning and free-motion sewing
Built-in thread cutterConvenient thread cutting on machine face
Reverse stitchBuilt-in reverse for reinforcing stitches
Bobbin systemFront-loading bobbin with clear cover
Power switchOn/off power control with built-in light

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable sewing table.

  1. Remove machine from packaging: Lift carefully from carrying case.
  2. Set up workspace: Place on sturdy table at comfortable height.
  3. Connect foot control: Plug into machine front port.
  4. Connect power: Plug power cord into 110V outlet.
  5. Install accessories: Remove accessory compartment and install presser feet.

WARNING! Machine is heavy; lift with both hands. Ensure stable surface before operation.

First-Time Setup

Prepare machine for first use with proper threading and bobbin winding.

  1. Wind bobbin: Place thread on spool pin, wind bobbin following numbered guides.
  2. Insert bobbin: Place bobbin in bobbin case with thread pulling counterclockwise.
  3. Thread upper thread: Follow numbered threading path from spool to needle.
  4. Select stitch: Turn stitch selection dial to desired stitch pattern.
  5. Test sew: Use scrap fabric to test stitch quality and tension.

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

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Access all functions through front panel controls and dials.

Main Controls: Stitch selection dial, stitch length dial, stitch width dial, reverse stitch button, bobbin winder, hand wheel.

Stitch Selection: Turn dial to select from 10 built-in stitches. Stitch Length: Adjust for shorter/longer stitches (0-4mm). Stitch Width: Control zigzag width (0-5mm). Reverse: Hold button for backstitching. Tension: Upper thread tension dial (0-9 settings). Presser Foot: Lever to raise/lower presser foot.

Connecting Accessories

Proper installation of presser feet and attachments for different sewing tasks.

  1. Turn off machine before changing accessories.
  2. Raise presser foot lever completely.
  3. Snap on appropriate presser foot (all-purpose, zipper, buttonhole).
  4. Lower presser foot to secure attachment.
  5. Select appropriate stitch setting for accessory.

Tip: Always use correct presser foot for each sewing technique to ensure best results.

Basic Sewing Operations

Step-by-step instructions for common sewing tasks.

  1. Straight stitching: Select straight stitch, set length 2.5mm, begin sewing.
  2. Zigzag stitching: Select zigzag, adjust width as needed for fabric.
  3. Buttonholes: Use 4-step process with buttonhole foot.
  4. Reverse stitching: Hold reverse button at beginning/end of seams.
  5. Free arm sewing: Remove accessory tray for sleeves and cuffs.
  6. Darning: Drop feed dogs for free-motion sewing.
  7. Gathering: Use longer stitch length and pull bobbin thread.

WARNING! Never pull fabric while sewing - let feed dogs move fabric naturally.

Maintenance Features

Built-in features for easy maintenance and troubleshooting.

Bobbin Access: Front-loading bobbin with clear cover for easy monitoring. Thread Cutter: Built-in blade for quick thread trimming. Drop Feed: Lower feed dogs for specialty sewing. Needle Position: Hand wheel for precise needle positioning. Built-in Light: Illuminates sewing area for better visibility.

Care & Cleaning

Regular maintenance for optimal performance and longevity.

  1. Unplug machine before cleaning.
  2. Remove lint from bobbin area and feed dogs with brush.
  3. Wipe exterior with soft, dry cloth.
  4. Oil moving parts as recommended in maintenance schedule.
  5. Cover machine when not in use to prevent dust accumulation.

CAUTION! Never use compressed air or liquids for cleaning. Use only sewing machine oil.

Regulatory Information

UL Listed: Certified for safety standards in United States and Canada. Copyright © 2025 Singer Manufacturing Company. All rights reserved. For technical support and service, visit www.singer.com or contact 1-800-4-SINGER. Made for household use only.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Machine won't startPower connection/foot controlCheck power cord; ensure foot control plugged in; verify power switch on.
Thread breakingTension/thread qualityReduce upper tension; check for rough spots on thread path; use quality thread.
Uneven stitchesThreading/bobbinRe-thread completely; check bobbin insertion; clean lint from bobbin area.
Needle breakingBent needle/fabric pullReplace needle; don't pull fabric; ensure needle inserted correctly.
Fabric not feedingFeed dogs/ presser footCheck feed dog position; ensure presser foot lowered; clean feed dogs.
Poor buttonholesStitch width/tensionAdjust stitch width; check thread tension; use stabilizer for delicate fabrics.

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

Singer Scholastic 6510 Sewing Machine Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025