Singer Sewing Machine 974 Manual

The Singer Sewing Machine 974 is a versatile mechanical sewing machine designed for home use, featuring multiple stitch patterns, adjustable stitch length and width, built-in buttonholer, free arm capability, drop feed for darning and quilting, and easy threading system. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

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

Features at a Glance

Key components: Mechanical sewing machine with built-in stitches, free arm, accessory compartment, and foot pedal control.

FeatureDescription
Stitch PatternsMultiple built-in stitches including straight, zigzag, and decorative
Stitch Length ControlAdjustable from 0-4mm
Stitch Width ControlAdjustable zigzag width up to 5mm
Built-in ButtonholerOne-step automatic buttonhole
Free ArmRemovable extension table for sewing sleeves and cuffs
Drop FeedFor darning, quilting, and free-motion sewing
Thread TensionAdjustable upper thread tension
Presser FeetMultiple included: zipper foot, buttonhole foot, all-purpose foot
PowerFoot pedal control with speed adjustment
LightingBuilt-in LED work light

Unpacking and Setup

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

  1. Remove machine from packaging: Lift carefully from carrying case.
  2. Attach power cord: Plug foot pedal into machine, then plug into wall outlet.
  3. Install needle: Loosen needle clamp screw, insert needle with flat side to back, tighten screw.
  4. Wind bobbin: Follow bobbin winding instructions in threading section.
  5. Thread machine: Follow numbered threading guide on machine.

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

First-Time Operation

Plug in machine and practice on scrap fabric before beginning projects.

  1. Power on: Plug into electrical outlet; machine light should illuminate.
  2. Select straight stitch: Set stitch selector to straight stitch position.
  3. Set stitch length: Adjust to medium setting (2.5-3.0) for general sewing.
  4. Practice sewing: Place fabric under presser foot, lower foot, and gently press pedal.
  5. Reverse stitching: Use reverse lever to secure seam beginnings and ends.

CAUTION! Always start with needle in highest position. Keep work area well-lit.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Main controls located on front and side of machine body.

Stitch Selector: Dial to choose stitch pattern. Stitch Length Dial: Controls stitch length (0-4mm). Stitch Width Dial: Controls zigzag width (0-5mm). Reverse Stitch Lever: Hold for backward sewing. Bobbin Winder: Right side of machine for bobbin winding. Thread Tension Dial: Adjusts upper thread tension (1-9).

Presser Feet: Quick-change system; lower lever to release, snap on new foot. Free Arm: Remove extension table for cylindrical sewing. Drop Feed: Lever under free arm for feed dog lowering.

Stitch Selection

Turn stitch selector dial to choose desired stitch pattern.

  1. Straight Stitch: Position 1 - general sewing, topstitching
  2. Zigzag Stitch: Position 2 - finishing edges, appliqué
  3. Blind Hem: Position 3 - nearly invisible hemming
  4. Elastic Stitch: Position 4 - for stretch fabrics
  5. Decorative Stitches: Positions 5-8 - various patterns
  6. Buttonhole: Position 9 - one-step automatic buttonhole

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

Threading and Bobbin

Proper threading is essential for good stitch quality.

  1. Upper Threading: Follow numbered guide - raise presser foot, thread through tension discs, take-up lever, and finally needle.
  2. Bobbin Winding: Place spool on pin, thread through bobbin winder tension, place empty bobbin on winder, push winder to engage.
  3. Bobbin Insertion: Open bobbin cover, insert bobbin with thread unwinding counterclockwise, pull thread through slot.
  4. Bring Up 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.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

  1. Daily: Brush out lint from bobbin area and feed dogs
  2. Weekly: Oil machine according to lubrication points diagram
  3. Monthly: Clean race hook and surrounding mechanism
  4. Needles: Replace regularly or when dull/damaged
  5. Storage: Cover machine when not in use; store in dry area

CAUTION! Unplug machine before cleaning or maintenance. Use only sewing machine oil.

Regulatory Information

UL Listed: Certified for safety standards. Copyright © Singer Manufacturing Company. For technical support and service, contact authorized Singer service centers. Replacement parts available through authorized dealers only. Keep this manual for future reference.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Thread breakingIncorrect threading/tensionRe-thread completely; adjust tension; check for burrs on needle
Skip stitchesWrong needle/damaged needleReplace needle; ensure correct needle type for fabric
Bobbin thread bunchingIncorrect bobbin threadingRemove and reinsert bobbin; check bobbin case
Machine won't runPower/pedal issueCheck power connection; ensure pedal is plugged in securely
Uneven stitchesTension issuesAdjust thread tension; re-thread both upper and bobbin threads
Needle breaksWrong needle/bent needleReplace needle; ensure needle is inserted correctly

Service: Contact authorized Singer service center for repairs. Do not attempt to repair electrical components.

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