Singer Simple Sewing Machine Model 3116 Manual

The Singer Simple Sewing Machine Model 3116 is a versatile 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, top drop-in bobbin system, free arm capability, and dual voltage (110-120V). Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Machine Setup 3. First-Time Operation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Stitch Selection 7. Threading the Machine 8. Maintenance & Cleaning 9. Accessories 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Mechanical sewing machine, foot pedal, power cord, accessory box, instructional DVD.

FeatureDescription
Built-in stitches6 essential stitches including straight, zigzag, and decorative
Automatic buttonhole4-step buttonhole for perfect buttonholes every time
Built-in needle threaderEasy threading with automatic needle threader
Top drop-in bobbinEasy bobbin loading with clear cover
Free armConvertible for sewing cuffs and sleeves
Stitch length controlAdjustable from 0-4mm
Stitch width controlAdjustable from 0-5mm
Reverse stitch leverFor reinforcing stitches
Power and light switchConvenient front-mounted controls
Dual voltage110-120V operation

Machine Setup

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

  1. Remove machine from packaging: Lift machine by base, not handwheel.
  2. Attach foot pedal: Connect foot pedal to machine port.
  3. Connect power: Plug power cord into machine and wall outlet.
  4. Install needle: Loosen needle clamp, insert needle with flat side to back.
  5. Wind bobbin: Follow bobbin winding instructions.

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

First-Time Operation

Plug in machine and turn on power switch.

  1. Thread machine: Follow threading diagram from spool to needle.
  2. Insert bobbin: Place bobbin in case with thread pulling counterclockwise.
  3. Select stitch: Turn stitch selector to desired stitch pattern.
  4. Test sew: Use scrap fabric to test stitch quality.
  5. Adjust tension: If needed, adjust upper thread tension dial.

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

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Front Panel: Power switch, Light switch, Stitch selector, Stitch length dial, Stitch width dial, Reverse stitch lever.

Basic Controls: Handwheel (manual operation), Foot pedal (speed control), Bobbin winder, Tension dial, Presser foot lever.

Stitch Selection: Turn dial to select from 6 built-in stitches. Stitch Length: Adjust for shorter or longer stitches. Stitch Width: Adjust for wider or narrower zigzag. Reverse: Hold lever for backstitching. Tension: Adjust upper thread tension (3-5 normal setting).

Stitch Selection

6 built-in stitches for various sewing needs.

  1. Straight Stitch: For basic sewing and seams
  2. Zigzag Stitch: For finishing edges and decorative work
  3. Blind Hem Stitch: For nearly invisible hems
  4. Stretch Stitch: For knit fabrics
  5. Decorative Stitch 1: For decorative accents
  6. Decorative Stitch 2: For additional decorative options

Buttonhole: 4-step process: 1) Zigzag left, 2) Zigzag forward, 3) Zigzag right, 4) Zigzag forward to complete.

Threading the Machine

Proper threading ensures smooth operation.

  1. Raise needle: Turn handwheel to highest position.
  2. Place spool: Put thread spool on spool pin.
  3. Follow guides: Thread through upper tension discs.
  4. Use needle threader: Push lever down and hook thread through needle.
  5. Pull up bobbin thread: Hold upper thread, turn handwheel to bring up bobbin thread.

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

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance.

  1. Clean lint: Remove bobbin case and clean lint with brush.
  2. Oil machine: Apply sewing machine oil to moving parts as needed.
  3. Change needle: Replace needle after 8-10 hours of sewing.
  4. Check belt: Ensure drive belt is intact and properly tensioned.

CAUTION! Unplug machine before cleaning or maintenance.

Accessories

Standard accessories included with machine.

AccessoryUse
All-purpose footGeneral sewing
Zipper footInstalling zippers
Buttonhole footMaking buttonholes
Bobbin (4)Extra bobbins
Needles (3)Replacement needles
Seam ripperRemoving stitches
BrushCleaning lint
ScrewdriverAdjustments

Regulatory Information

UL Listed: Complies with UL safety standards. FCC Part 15: Class B digital device. Copyright © Singer Manufacturing Company. For support, visit www.singer.com or contact 1-800-4-SINGER. Made for household use only.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Machine won't runPower connectionCheck power cord; ensure switch is on; check foot pedal connection.
Thread breakingTension/thread qualityRethread machine; adjust tension; use better quality thread.
Skip stitchesNeedle/damaged needleReplace needle; ensure correct needle type; check threading.
Bobbin issuesImproper windingRewind bobbin evenly; ensure bobbin inserted correctly.
Uneven stitchesTension/threadingCheck upper and bobbin tension; rethread completely.

Reset: Unplug machine for 5 minutes to reset electronic components.

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

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