singer sewing machine 3116 manual

The Singer 3116 is a mechanical sewing machine designed for home use, featuring 6 built-in stitches, adjustable stitch length and width, four-step buttonhole, free arm capability, built-in light, drop feed for darning and free-motion sewing, and reverse stitching. Powered by 120V AC, this machine is ideal for basic sewing projects, repairs, and garment construction. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation and Setup 3. First-Time Operation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Stitch Selection and Applications 7. Threading and Bobbin Winding 8. Maintenance and Cleaning 9. Accessories 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Mechanical sewing machine with 6 built-in stitches, free arm, built-in light, reverse stitch, and drop feed mechanism.

FeatureDescription
Built-in Stitches6 essential stitches including straight, zigzag, and decorative
Buttonhole4-step manual buttonhole
Free ArmRemovable extension table for sewing cuffs and sleeves
Stitch Length ControlAdjustable from 0-4mm
Stitch Width ControlAdjustable up to 5mm for zigzag stitches
Reverse StitchFor reinforcing seams
Drop FeedFor darning and free-motion sewing
Built-in LightIlluminates sewing area
Power SwitchTurns machine on/off
Foot PedalControls sewing speed

Installation and Setup

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

  1. Remove machine from packaging and all protective materials.
  2. Place machine on sturdy table or sewing cabinet.
  3. Connect foot pedal to machine and plug into power outlet.
  4. Install needle and thread machine following threading diagram.
  5. Wind and insert bobbin according to instructions.

WARNING! Keep fingers away from needle area during operation. Always turn off power when threading or changing needles.

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; test stitches on scrap fabric.

  1. Turn power switch to ON position.
  2. Select straight stitch with medium length setting.
  3. Place scrap fabric under presser foot and lower foot.
  4. Gently press foot pedal to begin sewing.
  5. Practice basic stitches and reverse stitching.
  6. Experiment with different stitch settings and fabrics.

CAUTION! Always use the correct needle and thread for your fabric type. Never force fabric through machine.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Main controls located on front and side of machine. Stitch selection dial, stitch length dial, stitch width dial, reverse stitch button.

Stitch Selection: Turn dial to select desired stitch pattern (1-6). Stitch Length: Adjust for shorter or longer stitches. Stitch Width: Adjust zigzag and decorative stitch width. Reverse: Hold button while sewing to reinforce stitches.

Presser Foot Pressure: Automatic adjustment for different fabrics. Tension Control: Adjust thread tension for balanced stitches.

Stitch Selection and Applications

Six built-in stitches for various sewing applications:

  1. Straight Stitch: Basic sewing, seams, topstitching
  2. Zigzag Stitch: Finishing edges, appliqué, stretch fabrics
  3. Blind Hem Stitch: Nearly invisible hems
  4. Stretch Stitch: For knit and stretch fabrics
  5. Decorative Stitch 1: Shell stitch for edges
  6. Decorative Stitch 2: Scallop stitch for trims

Tip: Always test stitches on scrap fabric before starting your project.

Threading and Bobbin Winding

Proper threading is essential for good stitch quality.

  1. Raise presser foot and needle to highest position.
  2. Follow numbered threading path on machine.
  3. Wind bobbin with same thread as top thread.
  4. Insert bobbin in bobbin case with thread unwinding counterclockwise.
  5. Pull bobbin thread up through needle plate.
  6. Hold both threads under presser foot when starting to sew.

WARNING! Turn power off when threading machine. Ensure needle is fully inserted and tightened.

Maintenance and Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

  1. Unplug machine before cleaning or maintenance.
  2. Remove needle plate and clean lint from bobbin area.
  3. Oil moving parts as recommended in maintenance schedule.
  4. Wipe exterior with soft, dry cloth.
  5. Replace needles regularly (every 8-10 hours of sewing).
  6. Use compressed air to remove dust from hard-to-reach areas.

CAUTION! Never use compressed air while machine is plugged in. Use only Singer-approved lubricants.

Accessories

Standard accessories included with Singer 3116:

AccessoryUse
All-purpose FootGeneral sewing
Zipper FootInstalling zippers
Buttonhole FootMaking buttonholes
Bobbin (4)Extra bobbins
Needles (3)Assorted needle sizes
Seam RipperRemoving stitches
BrushCleaning lint
ScrewdriverNeedle plate removal

Regulatory Information

UL Listed: Complies with UL safety standards. FCC Part 15: Class B digital device. Copyright © Singer Manufacturing Company. For support, visit www.singer.com or contact 1-800-4-SINGER. Made for household use. Warranty: 25-year limited warranty.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Thread breakingIncorrect threading/tensionRethread machine; adjust tension; check for burrs on needle.
Skip stitchesWrong needle/damaged needleReplace needle; ensure correct needle for fabric type.
Machine not runningPower/pedal connectionCheck power cord; ensure pedal is plugged in; check fuse.
Uneven stitchesTension issuesAdjust thread tension; rethread both top and bobbin threads.
Fabric not feedingFeed dogs loweredRaise feed dogs; clean feed dog area; check presser foot pressure.
Noisy operationLint/lack of oilClean and oil machine; check for loose parts.

Reset: Unplug machine for 5 minutes if electronic issues occur.

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

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