singer sewing machine model 8280 manual

The Singer Sewing Machine Model 8280 is a versatile electronic sewing machine featuring multiple stitch patterns, automatic needle threading, adjustable stitch length and width, built-in buttonhole styles, free arm capability, LED lighting, and easy stitch selection. 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 and Setup 3. First-Time Operation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Stitch Selection 7. Basic Sewing Operations 8. Maintenance and Care 9. Accessories 10. Safety Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Electronic sewing machine with built-in stitches, automatic needle threader, free arm, LED work light, stitch selection dial, and foot pedal control.

Feature	Description
Built-in Stitches	Multiple decorative and utility stitches
Automatic Needle Threader	Easy threading with built-in mechanism
Free Arm	Removable extension table for cylindrical sewing
LED Work Light	Bright illumination of sewing area
Stitch Selection Dial	Easy selection of stitch patterns
Foot Pedal Control	Variable speed control
Buttonhole Styles	Automatic one-step buttonholes
Stitch Length/Width	Adjustable settings for customization
Reverse Stitch	Reinforcement stitching capability
Drop Feed	Free-motion sewing option

Installation and Setup

Unpack and inspect all components. Place on stable, level surface.

Remove machine from packaging and remove all protective materials.
Attach power cord to machine and plug into electrical outlet.
Install foot pedal and connect to machine.
Install needle following directional guide.
Wind bobbin and thread machine according to threading diagram.

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

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; follow threading guide for initial setup.

Thread upper thread: Follow numbered threading path on machine.
Wind bobbin: Place thread on spool pin and wind bobbin evenly.
Insert bobbin: Place bobbin in case with thread pulling counterclockwise.
Select basic stitch: Turn dial to straight stitch setting.
Test sew: Use scrap fabric to test machine operation.

CAUTION! Always start with needle in highest position. Keep work area clean and organized.

Specifications

Model: Singer 8280
Stitches: Multiple built-in utility and decorative stitches
Buttonholes: One-step automatic buttonholes
Needle System: Standard 15x1 sewing needle
Bobbin: Class 15 transparent bobbin
Lighting: LED work light
Power Source: Standard household electrical outlet
Speed Control: Foot pedal with variable speed
Warranty: 25-year limited warranty

Controls and Settings

Main controls located on front and side of machine. Stitch selection dial for pattern selection.

Control Panel: Stitch selection dial, stitch length dial, stitch width dial, reverse stitch button.

Stitch Length: Adjustable from 0-4mm. Stitch Width: Adjustable from 0-5mm. Tension: Adjustable upper thread tension dial. Reverse: Press and hold for reinforcement stitching. Needle Position: Manual control via handwheel.

Stitch Selection

Turn stitch selection dial to choose from built-in stitch patterns.

Straight Stitch: Basic sewing and construction
Zigzag Stitch: Overcasting and decorative work
Stretch Stitches: For knit fabrics
Decorative Stitches: Multiple pattern options
Buttonhole Stitch: Automatic one-step buttonholes
Blind Hem: Nearly invisible hemming

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

Basic Sewing Operations

Follow proper threading and setup for optimal performance.

Position fabric under presser foot with needle in highest position.
Lower presser foot lever.
Gently press foot pedal to begin sewing.
Guide fabric gently without pulling or pushing.
Use reverse stitch at beginning and end of seams.
Raise needle to highest position before removing fabric.

WARNING! Never sew over pins. Keep fingers clear of moving needle.

Maintenance and Care

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

Clean lint and dust from bobbin area regularly.
Oil moving parts as recommended in maintenance schedule.
Replace needle regularly or when damaged.
Use proper needles for different fabric types.
Store machine covered when not in use.

CAUTION! Always unplug machine before cleaning or maintenance.

Accessories

Standard accessories included with machine.

All-purpose foot
Zipper foot
Buttonhole foot
Bobbin (class 15)
Needles
Seam ripper/lint brush
Additional spool pins
Screwdriver

Safety Information

Important safety precautions for machine operation.

Always disconnect power when changing needles or cleaning
Keep fingers away from moving parts
Do not operate with damaged cord or plug
Use machine in well-lit area
Keep work area clean and organized
Supervise children near operating machine

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Machine won't start	Power connection	Check power cord connection; ensure foot pedal is plugged in
Thread breaking	Tension/thread quality	Check threading path; adjust tension; use quality thread
Uneven stitches	Threading/tension	Re-thread machine; check bobbin; adjust tension settings
Needle breaking	Bent needle/wrong size	Replace needle; ensure correct needle for fabric type
Fabric not feeding	Feed dogs lowered	Check feed dog position; clean feed dogs
Poor buttonholes	Stabilizer/tension	Use stabilizer; test on scrap fabric; adjust tension

Service: For technical support, contact Singer Customer Service at 1-800-4-SINGER or visit www.singer.com