Singer Starlet Sewing Machine Manual

The Singer Starlet is a compact, user-friendly sewing machine designed for beginners and home sewers. It features straight and zigzag stitches, built-in buttonholer, adjustable stitch length and width, free arm capability, built-in light, and easy threading system. 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 9. Maintenance & Cleaning 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Sewing head, free arm, stitch selection dial, tension control, bobbin winder, built-in light, foot pedal, accessory compartment.

FeatureDescription
Stitch Selection DialSelects straight, zigzag, and decorative stitches
Tension Control DialAdjusts thread tension for different fabrics
Bobbin WinderAutomatically winds bobbin
Built-in LightIlluminates sewing area
Free ArmRemovable extension for sewing cuffs and sleeves
Foot PedalControls sewing speed
Accessory CompartmentStores presser feet, needles, bobbins
Stitch Length ControlAdjusts stitch length from 0-4mm
Stitch Width ControlAdjusts zigzag width from 0-5mm
Reverse Stitch LeverReinforces stitches at beginning and end

Installation & Setup

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

  1. Remove machine from packaging: Lift carefully from carrying case.
  2. Attach foot pedal: Connect pedal cord to machine port.
  3. Plug into AC power: Use included power cord.
  4. Install needle: Loosen needle clamp, insert needle flat side back, tighten.
  5. Wind bobbin: Follow threading diagram on machine.

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

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; follow setup steps.

  1. Thread machine: Follow numbered threading path on machine.
  2. Insert bobbin: Drop-in bobbin system with clear cover.
  3. Select stitch: Turn dial to desired stitch pattern.
  4. Adjust settings: Set stitch length and width as needed.
  5. Test on scrap fabric: Ensure proper tension and stitch formation.

CAUTION! Always use proper needle for fabric type. Change needle regularly.

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.

Thread Tension: Adjust dial (higher numbers for tighter tension). Bobbin Winding: Push bobbin winder to right, press pedal. Free Arm: Remove accessory compartment for free arm sewing. Built-in Light: Always on when machine is powered.

Stitch Selection

10 built-in stitches for various sewing tasks.

  1. Straight Stitch: Position 1 - basic sewing
  2. Zigzag Stitch: Position 2 - finishing edges, appliqué
  3. Blind Hem: Position 3 - nearly invisible hems
  4. Stretch Stitch: Position 4 - for knit fabrics
  5. Decorative Stitches: Positions 5-10 - various patterns
  6. Buttonhole: Special position - automatic 1-step

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. Follow numbered threading path: Spool pin to needle.
  3. Wind bobbin: Place thread on spool pin, through tension disc, to bobbin.
  4. Insert bobbin: Drop into case, pull thread through slot.
  5. Pull up bobbin thread: Hold needle thread, turn hand wheel toward you.

WARNING! Ensure machine is unplugged during threading and maintenance.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance.

  1. Clean lint: Remove needle plate, clean bobbin area with brush.
  2. Oil machine: Use sewing machine oil on moving parts (refer to diagram).
  3. Change needle: Every 8-10 hours of sewing or for new project.
  4. Storage: Cover machine when not in use, store in dry place.

CAUTION! Unplug before cleaning. Use only sewing machine oil.

Regulatory Information

UL Listed: Complies with safety standards for household use. Copyright © 2025 Singer Manufacturing Company. All rights reserved. For support, visit www.singer.com or contact 1-800-4-SINGER. Made for household use only.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Thread breakingIncorrect threading/tensionRethread completely; adjust tension; check for burrs on needle.
Skipped stitchesWrong needle/damaged needleReplace needle; ensure correct needle for fabric type.
Machine jamsThread jam in bobbin areaRemove needle plate; clean bobbin area; rethread.
Uneven stitchesIncorrect tensionAdjust upper and bobbin tension; test on scrap fabric.
Noise during operationLint buildup/needs oilingClean and oil machine; check for loose parts.

Reset: Unplug for 30 seconds if electronic issues occur.

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

Singer Starlet Sewing Machine Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025