Singer Sewing Machine Model 648 Manual

The Singer Sewing Machine Model 648 is a versatile mechanical sewing machine featuring multiple stitch patterns, built-in buttonhole function, adjustable stitch length and width, free arm capability, built-in LED light, top drop-in bobbin system, automatic needle threader, and reverse sewing function. Powered by standard household electrical outlet with foot pedal control. 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: Mechanical sewing machine with built-in stitches, Free Arm, LED work light, Automatic needle threader, Top drop-in bobbin system, Foot pedal control.

FeatureDescription
Built-in StitchesMultiple decorative and utility stitches
Buttonhole FunctionOne-step automatic buttonhole
Free ArmFor sewing cuffs and sleeves
LED LightIlluminates work area
Automatic Needle ThreaderEasy needle threading
Top Drop-in BobbinEasy bobbin loading and viewing
Stitch Length ControlAdjustable stitch length dial
Stitch Width ControlAdjustable stitch width dial
Reverse SewingReinforce stitches with reverse button
Foot PedalSpeed control via foot pedal

Installation & Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable sewing table.

  1. Remove protective packaging and styrofoam blocks.
  2. Attach power cord to machine and plug into electrical outlet.
  3. Connect foot pedal to machine port.
  4. Install needle following arrow direction.
  5. Wind and insert bobbin into top drop-in bobbin case.
  6. Thread upper thread through automatic needle threader.

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

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; test basic functions.

  1. Select straight stitch pattern using stitch selector dial.
  2. Place fabric under presser foot and lower foot lever.
  3. Gently press foot pedal to begin sewing.
  4. Practice reverse stitching by holding reverse button.
  5. Test automatic needle threader function.
  6. Experiment with different stitch patterns and lengths.

CAUTION! Always start with scrap fabric for practice. Keep work area well-lit.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Main controls located on front and side of machine.

Front Panel: Stitch pattern selector, Stitch length dial, Stitch width dial, Reverse button, Bobbin winder, Power switch.

Stitch Selection: Turn dial to select desired stitch pattern. Stitch Length: Adjust from 0-4mm for different fabric types. Stitch Width: Adjust decorative stitch width 0-5mm. Reverse: Hold button to reinforce stitches. Bobbin Winder: Wind bobbin before sewing. Tension Control: Adjust thread tension dial for balanced stitches.

Stitch Selection

Multiple stitch patterns for various sewing applications.

  1. Straight Stitch: Basic sewing and seams (position 1)
  2. Zigzag Stitch: Overcasting and decorative work
  3. Blind Hem Stitch: Nearly invisible hems
  4. Elastic Stretch Stitch: For knit fabrics
  5. Decorative Stitches: Multiple pattern options
  6. Buttonhole Stitch: One-step automatic buttonholes

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

Threading & Bobbin

Proper threading ensures smooth operation.

  1. Raise presser foot and needle to highest position.
  2. Place spool on spool pin and follow threading guide.
  3. Use automatic needle threader for easy needle threading.
  4. Wind bobbin using bobbin winder on machine.
  5. Insert bobbin into top drop-in case with thread clockwise.
  6. Pull bobbin thread up through needle plate slot.

WARNING! Ensure machine is unplugged during threading. Always use quality thread.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance.

  1. Unplug machine before cleaning.
  2. Remove needle plate to clean lint and dust.
  3. Clean bobbin area with small brush provided.
  4. Oil moving parts as per manual instructions.
  5. Replace needle regularly (every 8-10 hours of sewing).
  6. Cover machine when not in use to prevent dust accumulation.

CAUTION! Use only sewing machine oil. Do not use household oils.

Accessories

Standard included accessories for various sewing tasks.

AccessoryPurpose
All-purpose FootGeneral sewing
Zipper FootInstalling zippers
Buttonhole FootAutomatic buttonholes
Blind Hem FootNearly invisible hems
Class 15 BobbinsThread holding
NeedlesVarious sizes for different fabrics
Seam RipperRemoving stitches
BrushCleaning lint
ScrewdriverNeedle plate removal

Regulatory Information

UL Listed: Complies with safety standards for household sewing machines. Copyright © 2025 Singer Manufacturing Company; trademarks of SVP Worldwide. For technical support and service, visit www.singer.com or contact 1-800-4-SINGER. Made for household use only.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Machine not runningPower connectionCheck power cord; ensure machine is plugged in; check foot pedal connection.
Thread breakingTension/thread qualityReduce tension; use quality thread; check for burrs on needle.
Uneven stitchesThreading/tensionRe-thread machine; adjust tension; check bobbin insertion.
Needle breakingBent needle/fabric pullReplace needle; don't pull fabric; use correct needle size.
Bobbin thread bunchingBobbin threadingRe-thread bobbin; ensure bobbin inserted correctly.
Skip stitchesNeedle/blunt needleReplace needle; ensure correct needle type for fabric.

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

Singer Sewing Machine Model 648 Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025