Singer Simple Sewing Machine Model 3116 Instruction Manual

The Singer Simple Sewing Machine Model 3116 is a user-friendly mechanical sewing machine designed for beginners and home sewers. It features 6 built-in stitches, automatic 4-step buttonhole, adjustable stitch length and width, built-in needle threader, drop-in bobbin system, free arm capability, and includes essential accessories. Powered by 110-120V AC, this machine is perfect for basic sewing projects, repairs, and creative crafts. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Mechanical sewing machine, foot pedal, power cord, accessory kit.

Safety Instructions

Read all instructions before operating your sewing machine.

1. Always unplug machine when not in use and before cleaning or maintenance.
2. Keep fingers away from moving parts and needle area.
3. Do not use bent or damaged needles.
4. Switch off power before changing needles or presser feet.
5. Keep machine away from water and moisture.
6. Use only Singer recommended accessories and parts.

WARNING! Never operate machine with damaged power cord. Keep hair and loose clothing away from moving parts.

Machine Setup

Unpack and assemble your sewing machine following these steps.

1. Place machine on stable, flat surface at comfortable working height.
2. Connect foot pedal to machine and plug into power outlet.
3. Install needle: Loosen needle clamp screw, insert needle with flat side to back, tighten screw.
4. Wind bobbin: Place thread on spool pin, guide thread through bobbin winder tension, press bobbin onto winder shaft.
5. Insert bobbin: Open bobbin cover, drop bobbin into case with thread unwinding counterclockwise.
6. Thread upper thread: Follow numbered threading guide on machine.

CAUTION! Ensure machine is unplugged during setup. Handle needles with care.

Specifications

• Model: Singer Simple 3116
• Stitches: 6 built-in stitches
• Buttonhole: 4-step automatic
• Stitch Length: Adjustable up to 4mm
• Stitch Width: Adjustable up to 5mm
• Bobbin: Top drop-in bobbin system
• Needle System: 15x1 HAx1
• Presser Feet: 4 included (all-purpose, zipper, buttonhole, button sewing)
• Power Requirements: 110-120V AC
• Machine Weight: 12.5 lbs (5.7 kg)
• Warranty: 25-year limited warranty

Controls and Functions

Main controls located on front and side of machine.

Stitch Selector Dial: Turn to select desired stitch pattern (1-6).

Stitch Length Dial: Adjust from 0-4mm (0 for darning, 4 for basting).

Stitch Width Dial: Adjust zigzag width from 0-5mm.

Reverse Stitch Button: Press and hold to sew in reverse for seam reinforcement.

Handwheel: Manual control of needle position (turn toward you only).

Power/Light Switch: Turns machine and built-in light on/off.

Foot Pedal: Controls sewing speed - press lightly for slow, firmly for fast.

Threading the Machine

Proper threading ensures smooth operation and quality stitches.

1. Raise presser foot and needle to highest position.
2. Place thread spool on spool pin.
3. Follow numbered threading path: Through first thread guide, down to tension discs, up to take-up lever, down to needle.
4. Use built-in needle threader: Push lever down, hook thread through hook, release lever to pull thread through needle.
5. Pull both upper and bobbin threads under presser foot toward back.

Tip: Always thread machine with presser foot raised to open tension discs.

Basic Stitching

Follow these steps for successful sewing.

1. Select stitch: Turn stitch selector dial to desired pattern.
2. Adjust settings: Set stitch length and width as needed.
3. Position fabric: Lower presser foot onto fabric at beginning of seam.
4. Start sewing: Press foot pedal gently to begin stitching.
5. Guide fabric: Let machine feed fabric; do not pull or push.
6. Reverse stitch: Press reverse button at beginning and end of seams.
7. Finish: Raise needle, lift presser foot, remove fabric, and trim threads.

WARNING! Always keep fingers away from needle area while sewing. Use seam guide for straight stitching.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance.

1. Unplug machine before cleaning.
2. Remove needle plate: Use screwdriver to remove screws, lift off plate.
3. Clean lint: Use small brush to remove lint from feed dogs and bobbin area.
4. Oil machine: Apply 1-2 drops of sewing machine oil to moving parts as indicated in manual.
5. Replace needle: Change needle after every 8 hours of sewing or for each new project.
6. Cover machine when not in use to prevent dust accumulation.

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

Accessories Included

Troubleshooting

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