Singer Sewing Machine Model 774 Manual

The Singer Sewing Machine Model 774 is a versatile mechanical sewing machine designed for home use, featuring straight and zigzag stitches, 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, 60Hz. 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 head, built-in stitch patterns, free arm, built-in light, reverse stitch lever, stitch length/width controls, bobbin winder.

FeatureDescription
Stitch Selection DialSelects straight stitch, zigzag, and decorative stitches
Stitch Length ControlAdjusts stitch length from 0-4mm
Stitch Width ControlAdjusts zigzag width from 0-5mm
Reverse Stitch LeverReinforces stitching at beginning/end of seams
Free ArmRemovable accessory compartment for sewing sleeves and cuffs
Built-in ButtonholerOne-step automatic buttonhole
Drop Feed DogLowers feed dogs for darning and free-motion quilting
Built-in LightIlluminates sewing area
Bobbin WinderAutomatically winds bobbin
Power PedalControls sewing speed

Installation & Setup

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

  1. Remove machine from packaging: Lift carefully from carrying case.
  2. Position machine: Place on sturdy table or sewing cabinet.
  3. Connect foot pedal: Plug into machine's pedal port.
  4. Connect power: Plug power cord into machine and wall outlet.
  5. Install needle: Loosen needle clamp screw, insert needle with flat side to back.
  6. Wind bobbin: Follow threading diagram for bobbin winding.

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

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; follow threading instructions.

  1. Thread upper thread: Follow numbered threading path from spool to needle.
  2. Insert bobbin: Place bobbin in case with thread pulling counterclockwise.
  3. Raise bobbin thread: Hold upper thread, turn handwheel toward you.
  4. Select stitch: Turn stitch selection dial to desired pattern.
  5. Adjust settings: Set stitch length and width as needed.
  6. Test sew: Use scrap fabric to check tension and stitch quality.

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

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Main controls located on front and side of machine.

Front Panel: Stitch selection dial, stitch length control, stitch width control, reverse stitch lever.

Stitch Selection: Straight stitch (position 1), zigzag stitch (position 2-3), blind hem (position 4), stretch stitches (position 5-6). Stitch Length: 0-4mm (0 for darning, 4 for basting). Stitch Width: 0-5mm (0 for straight stitch, 5 for wide zigzag). Tension: Adjust upper thread tension dial (3-5 for normal fabrics).

Stitch Selection

Six built-in stitches for various sewing applications.

  1. Straight Stitch: General sewing, position 1
  2. Zigzag Stitch: Seam finishing, appliqué, position 2-3
  3. Three-step Zigzag: Elastic and stretch fabrics, position 4
  4. Blind Hem: Nearly invisible hemming, position 5
  5. Stretch Stitch: Knits and stretch fabrics, position 6
  6. Buttonhole: 4-step process for perfect buttonholes

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

Threading & Bobbin

Proper threading is essential for good stitch quality.

  1. Upper Threading: Raise presser foot, follow numbered path from spool pin to needle.
  2. Bobbin Winding: Place spool on pin, thread through bobbin winder tension, press pedal.
  3. Bobbin Insertion: Open bobbin cover, drop in bobbin with thread clockwise.
  4. Bring Up Bobbin Thread: Hold upper thread, turn handwheel toward you.
  5. Thread Tension: Adjust dial for balanced stitches (higher numbers for tighter tension).

WARNING! Always raise needle to highest position before threading.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance.

  1. Daily: Brush out lint from bobbin area and feed dogs.
  2. Weekly: Oil moving parts with sewing machine oil (2-3 drops).
  3. Monthly: Clean race hook and surrounding areas.
  4. 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 Model 774.

AccessoryUse
All-purpose FootGeneral sewing
Zipper FootInstalling zippers
Buttonhole FootMaking buttonholes
Bobbin (4)Extra bobbins for thread colors
Needles (3)Assorted sizes
Seam RipperRemoving stitches
BrushCleaning lint
ScrewdriverNeedle plate removal

Regulatory Information

UL Listed: Complies with UL 1270 standard for sewing machines. FCC Part 15: Class B digital device. Copyright © 2025 Singer Manufacturing Company. All rights reserved. For support, visit www.singer.com or contact 1-800-4-SINGER.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Thread breakingIncorrect threading/tensionRethread completely; reduce tension; check for burrs on needle.
Skipped stitchesWrong needle/damaged needleReplace needle; ensure correct needle for fabric type.
Uneven stitchesTension imbalanceAdjust upper tension; reinsert bobbin; clean race hook.
Machine won't runPower/pedal issueCheck power connection; ensure pedal is plugged in properly.
Fabric not feedingFeed dogs lowered/dirtyRaise feed dogs; clean feed dog area of lint buildup.

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

Singer Sewing Machine Model 774 Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025