singer sewing machine model 1120 manual

The Singer Sewing Machine Model 1120 is a versatile mechanical sewing machine featuring straight stitch, zigzag stitch, and multiple decorative stitches. It includes built-in buttonholer, adjustable stitch length and width, free arm capability, built-in light, reverse stitching, and drop feed for darning and quilting. Powered by 120V AC, this machine is suitable for beginners and experienced sewers alike with its easy-to-use controls and reliable performance. 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 Guide 7. Threading and Bobbin 8. Maintenance & Cleaning 9. Accessories 10. Safety Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Mechanical sewing machine, built-in stitches, free arm, built-in light, reverse lever, stitch length/width controls, bobbin winder, foot pedal.

FeatureDescription
Built-in stitchesStraight, zigzag, and decorative stitches
ButtonholerOne-step automatic buttonhole
Free armFor sewing cuffs and sleeves
Stitch length controlAdjustable from 0-4mm
Stitch width controlAdjustable from 0-5mm
Reverse stitchingFor reinforcing seams
Drop feedFor darning and free-motion sewing
Built-in lightIlluminates sewing area
Bobbin winderBuilt-in bobbin winding system
Power switchTurns machine on/off

Installation & Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable table or sewing cabinet.

  1. Remove machine from packaging and remove all protective materials.
  2. Place machine on stable, level surface at comfortable working height.
  3. Connect foot pedal to machine and plug into power outlet.
  4. Install needle: Loosen needle clamp screw, insert needle with flat side to back, tighten screw.
  5. Wind bobbin: Place empty bobbin on winder, thread through tension disc, press winder lever.

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

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; follow threading diagram.

  1. Thread upper thread: Follow numbered threading path from spool to needle.
  2. Insert bobbin: Place bobbin in case with thread unwinding counterclockwise.
  3. Select stitch: Turn stitch selector dial to desired pattern.
  4. Adjust settings: Set stitch length and width as needed.
  5. Test sew: Use scrap fabric to test stitch quality and tension.

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

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Main controls located on front and side of machine.

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

Stitch Selection: Turn dial to select straight, zigzag, or decorative stitches. Stitch Length: Control determines how long each stitch is (0-4mm). Stitch Width: Adjusts zigzag and decorative stitch width (0-5mm). Reverse: Press and hold to sew backwards for reinforcement. Bobbin Winder: Automatically stops when bobbin is full.

Stitch Selection Guide

Dial positions for different stitch types and applications.

  1. Straight Stitch: Basic sewing, topstitching, basting
  2. Zigzag Stitch: Seam finishing, appliqué, stretch fabrics
  3. Blind Hem: Nearly invisible hemming
  4. Elastic Stretch: For knit and stretch fabrics
  5. Decorative Stitches: Various patterns for embellishment
  6. Buttonhole: One-step automatic buttonhole

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

Threading and Bobbin

Proper threading ensures smooth operation and quality stitches.

  1. Upper Threading: Follow numbered path - raise presser foot, place spool, thread through guides, eye of needle.
  2. Bobbin Winding: Place spool on pin, thread through tension disc, place bobbin on winder, press pedal.
  3. Bobbin Insertion: Remove bobbin case, insert bobbin with thread counterclockwise, pull thread through slot.
  4. Bring Up Bobbin Thread: Hold upper thread, turn hand wheel toward you until needle goes down and up, pull upper thread to bring up bobbin thread.

WARNING! Always raise needle to highest position before threading. 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 moving parts with sewing machine oil
  3. Monthly: Clean tension discs with soft brush
  4. As needed: Replace 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 Model 1120.

AccessoryPurpose
All-purpose footGeneral sewing
Zipper footInstalling zippers
Buttonhole footMaking buttonholes
Seam ripperRemoving stitches
BrushCleaning lint
Extra needlesVarious sizes for different fabrics
BobbinsExtra Class 15 bobbins
ScrewdriverNeedle plate removal

Safety Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with interference limits for residential use. UL Listed for electrical safety. Always disconnect power when not in use. Keep machine away from water and moisture. Store in dry location. For support, visit www.singer.com or contact 1-800-4-SINGER.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Machine won't runPower connectionCheck power cord; ensure foot pedal is connected; check power switch.
Thread breakingTension/thread qualityRethread machine; check tension settings; use quality thread.
Skip stitchesNeedle issuesReplace needle; ensure correct needle type; check needle insertion.
Bobbin thread bunchingBobbin threadingRethread bobbin; ensure bobbin inserted correctly; check bobbin case.
Uneven stitchesTension problemsAdjust upper and bobbin tension; clean tension discs.
Machine noisyLint/lubricationClean lint from bobbin area; oil moving parts; check for loose parts.

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

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