singer sewing machine instruction manual model 237

The Singer Model 237 is a classic zigzag sewing machine featuring straight and zigzag stitching, built-in buttonholer, reverse stitching capability, adjustable stitch length and width, free arm design, built-in light, and drop feed for darning and embroidery. Powered by 120V AC, this mechanical machine offers reliable performance for home sewing projects. 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. Threading & Bobbin 8. Maintenance & Cleaning 9. Accessories 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Zigzag sewing mechanism, stitch pattern selector, reverse lever, tension dial, presser foot, free arm, built-in light, foot pedal control.

Feature	Description
Stitch selector	Dial for straight and zigzag stitch patterns
Reverse lever	For reinforcement stitching at beginning/end of seams
Tension dial	Adjusts upper thread tension (0-9)
Stitch length dial	Controls stitch length (0-4 mm)
Free arm	Removable extension table for sewing sleeves and cuffs
Built-in buttonholer	4-step buttonhole attachment
Drop feed	Lowers feed dogs for darning and embroidery
Built-in light	Illuminates sewing area
Foot pedal	Controls sewing speed
Power switch	Turns machine on/off

Installation & Setup

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

Remove machine from case and place on table.
Attach foot pedal: Connect pedal cord to machine port.
Plug into AC power: Use 120V outlet.
Install needle: Loosen needle clamp, insert needle with flat side to back, tighten.
Attach extension table: Snap into place for flat sewing surface.

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

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; follow setup steps.

Thread machine: Follow numbered threading path from spool to needle.
Wind bobbin: Place empty bobbin on winder, thread through tension disc, engage winder.
Insert bobbin: Drop bobbin into case with thread unwinding counterclockwise.
Test stitching: Use scrap fabric to adjust tension and stitch settings.
Practice basic stitches: Straight stitch and zigzag on practice fabric.

CAUTION! Always turn handwheel toward you only. Never force the machine.

Specifications

Model: Singer 237
Stitch Types: Straight, zigzag, blind hem, stretch stitches
Stitch Length: 0-4 mm adjustable
Stitch Width: 0-5 mm for zigzag
Buttonhole: 4-step built-in
Feed System: Drop feed dogs
Free Arm: Yes, with removable extension table
Light: Built-in sewing light
Power Source: 120V AC, 60Hz
Machine Type: Mechanical zigzag

Controls and Settings

Main controls located on front and side of machine.

Front Panel: Stitch selector dial, stitch length dial, reverse lever, tension dial, bobbin winder.

Stitch Selection: Turn dial to desired stitch pattern (straight, zigzag, blind hem). Stitch Length: 0-4 mm adjustment for all stitches. Tension: 0-9 dial settings (4 is normal). Reverse: Hold lever for backstitching. Bobbin Winder: Push bobbin to right to engage winding.

Stitch Selection

Various stitches for different sewing applications.

Straight stitch: For basic seams (dial position 1)
Zigzag stitch: For finishing edges and decorative work (dial positions 2-5)
Blind hem: For nearly invisible hemming (dial position 6)
Stretch stitches: For knit fabrics (dial positions 7-8)
Buttonhole: 4-step process using zigzag width adjustment

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

Threading & Bobbin

Proper threading is essential for good stitch quality.

Upper threading: Follow numbered path from spool pin to needle.
Raise presser foot before threading to open tension discs.
Bobbin winding: Place empty bobbin on winder, thread through guide, engage winder.
Bobbin insertion: Drop bobbin into case with thread unwinding counterclockwise.
Pull up bobbin thread: Hold upper thread, turn handwheel to bring up bobbin thread.

WARNING! Ensure needle is fully inserted and tightened to prevent breakage.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance.

Daily: Brush out lint from bobbin area and feed dogs.
Weekly: Oil moving parts with sewing machine oil (2-3 drops).
Monthly: Clean tension discs with folded fabric or dental floss.
Needle replacement: Change needle after 8-10 hours of sewing.

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

Accessories

Standard accessories included with Singer 237.

Assorted presser feet: Zipper foot, buttonhole foot, darning foot
Bobbins (4-6 class 15 metal bobbins)
Needles (assorted sizes)
Seam ripper/lint brush
Screwdrivers (large and small)
Extension table

Regulatory Information

UL Listed: Complies with safety standards for household sewing machines. Copyright © Singer Manufacturing Company. For technical support or replacement parts, contact Singer Customer Service at 1-800-4-SINGER or visit www.singer.com. Made for household use only.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Thread breaking	Incorrect threading/tension	Rethread completely; reduce tension; check for burrs on needle.
Skip stitches	Wrong needle/bent needle	Replace needle; ensure correct needle type for fabric.
Bobbin thread bunching	Incorrect bobbin insertion	Remove and reinsert bobbin; check bobbin case.
Machine won't run	Power/pedal issue	Check power cord; ensure pedal is connected; check fuse.
Uneven stitches	Tension/timing issue	Adjust upper and bobbin tension; check for lint buildup.

Service: For mechanical issues, contact authorized Singer service center.

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