singer sewing machine manual model 2638

The Singer Sewing Machine Model 2638 is a versatile mechanical sewing machine designed for home use, featuring multiple stitch patterns, adjustable stitch length and width, built-in buttonhole function, free arm capability, built-in needle threader, top drop-in bobbin system, and reverse stitching. Powered by 120V AC, this machine is ideal for basic sewing, garment construction, and home decor 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 the Machine 8. Maintenance & Cleaning 9. Accessories 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Mechanical sewing machine with built-in stitches, free arm, drop feed mechanism, and built-in needle threader.

FeatureDescription
Built-in Stitches23 built-in stitches including utility, decorative, and stretch stitches
Buttonhole4-step built-in buttonhole function
Stitch LengthAdjustable from 0-4mm
Stitch WidthAdjustable up to 5mm for zigzag stitches
Free ArmConvertible for sewing cuffs and sleeves
Built-in Needle ThreaderEasy needle threading system
Top Drop-in BobbinEasy bobbin loading with clear cover
Reverse StitchBuilt-in reverse stitching for securing seams
Feed DogsDrop feed for free-motion sewing
Presser FeetMultiple presser feet included for various techniques

Installation & Setup

Unpack and inspect all contents. Place on stable, flat surface.

  1. Remove machine from packaging: Lift machine by base, not handwheel.
  2. Attach power cord: Plug into machine and wall outlet (120V AC).
  3. Install foot control: Connect to machine port, place on floor.
  4. Attach accessory box: Slide onto free arm or place nearby.
  5. Install needle: Loosen needle clamp screw, insert needle with flat side toward back.

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

First-Time Operation

Plug in machine and follow setup procedure.

  1. Wind bobbin: Place thread on spool pin, guide thread through bobbin winder tension.
  2. Insert bobbin: Place bobbin in bobbin case with thread pulling counterclockwise.
  3. Thread upper thread: Follow numbered threading path on machine.
  4. Use needle threader: Lower lever to automatically thread needle.
  5. Raise presser foot and pull up bobbin thread.
  6. Select straight stitch and test on fabric scrap.

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

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Access controls via dials and levers on front panel. Stitch Selector Dial: Turn to select desired stitch pattern. Stitch Length Dial: Adjust from 0-4mm. Stitch Width Dial: Adjust zigzag width 0-5mm.

Main Controls: Power switch, Stitch selector, Stitch length dial, Stitch width dial, Reverse stitch button, Bobbin winder, Handwheel, Presser foot lever, Feed dog control.

Stitch Settings: Straight stitch (position 1), Zigzag (position 2-5), Decorative stitches (positions 6-23). Buttonhole: Follow 4-step sequence marked on dial. Reverse: Hold button for backstitching.

Stitch Selection

23 built-in stitches for various sewing applications.

  1. Straight Stitch: Basic sewing, position 1
  2. Zigzag Stitch: Overcasting, applique, positions 2-5
  3. Blind Hem: Nearly invisible hems, position 6
  4. Stretch Stitches: For knit fabrics, positions 7-9
  5. Decorative Stitches: Embellishment, positions 10-23
  6. Buttonhole: 4-step process, follow dial markings

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

Threading the Machine

Proper threading ensures smooth operation.

  1. Raise presser foot and needle to highest position.
  2. Place spool on spool pin, secure with cap if needed.
  3. Follow numbered threading path: Right guide, tension disks, take-up lever, final guide.
  4. Use needle threader: Lower lever, hook catches thread, pull through needle eye.
  5. Pull thread toward back under presser foot.
  6. For bobbin: Wind evenly, insert with thread pulling counterclockwise.
  7. Pull up bobbin thread by turning handwheel toward you.

WARNING! Ensure machine is unplugged during threading. Keep threads untangled.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance.

  1. Daily: Remove lint from bobbin area with brush provided.
  2. Weekly: Oil moving parts with sewing machine oil (2-3 drops).
  3. Monthly: Clean feed dogs with small brush.
  4. As needed: Replace needle after 8-10 hours of sewing.
  5. Storage: Cover machine when not in use.

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

Accessories

Standard accessories included with Singer 2638.

AccessoryPurpose
All-purpose FootGeneral sewing
Zipper FootInstalling zippers
Buttonhole FootMaking buttonholes
Button Sewing FootAttaching buttons
NeedlesAssorted sizes (3 included)
BobbinsClass 15 transparent (4 included)
Seam RipperRemoving stitches
BrushCleaning lint
ScrewdriverNeedle plate removal
Spool Pin FeltSpool stability

Regulatory Information

UL Listed: Complies with UL safety standards. FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with interference limits for residential use. Copyright © Singer Manufacturing Company. For support, visit www.singer.com or contact 1-800-4-SINGER. Made for household use only.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Thread breakingIncorrect threading/tensionRethread completely; adjust tension; check for burrs on needle.
Skip stitchesWrong needle/damaged needleReplace needle; ensure correct needle type for fabric.
Machine jamsThread buildup/bobbin issuesRemove needle plate; clean bobbin area; rethread bobbin.
Uneven stitchesTension issuesAdjust upper tension; ensure proper bobbin threading.
No powerPower connectionCheck wall outlet; ensure power cord fully inserted; check foot control.
Needle breaksWrong needle/bent needleReplace needle; ensure needle inserted correctly; don't pull fabric.

Reset: Unplug for 30 seconds if electronic issues occur.

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

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