Singer Treadle Sewing Machine Model 27 Manual

The Singer Treadle Sewing Machine Model 27 is a classic vintage sewing machine featuring cast iron construction, treadle foot pedal operation, oscillating shuttle mechanism, and ornate decals. This manual covers operation, maintenance, threading, troubleshooting, and care for this historic sewing machine. Below are key sections for features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation and Setup 3. First-Time Operation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Adjustments 6. Threading Instructions 7. Stitch Settings 8. Maintenance and Oil Points 9. Care & Cleaning 10. Historical Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Cast iron body, treadle foot pedal, oscillating shuttle, tension dial, presser foot, bobbin winder, hand wheel.

Feature	Description
Treadle mechanism	Foot-powered operation with iron treadle
Oscillating shuttle	Classic shuttle system for bobbin thread
Cast iron construction	Durable vintage build with ornate decals
Tension dial	Adjustable thread tension control
Presser foot	Standard presser foot with lever control
Bobbin winder	Built-in bobbin winding mechanism
Hand wheel	Manual control and reverse stitching
Needle clamp	Standard needle installation
Stitch length lever	Adjustable stitch length control
Thread guides	Multiple guides for proper threading

Installation and Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable surface near power outlet.

Assemble treadle cabinet: Follow cabinet instructions for proper assembly.
Install machine head: Secure machine head to cabinet with mounting screws.
Connect treadle belt: Attach leather belt from treadle to hand wheel.
Level machine: Ensure machine sits level in cabinet for smooth operation.

WARNING! Machine is heavy; lift with care to avoid injury. Ensure all connections are secure.

First-Time Operation

Prepare machine for first use; follow threading instructions.

Oil machine: Apply sewing machine oil to all oil points before first use.
Thread machine: Follow threading diagram for upper and lower threading.
Test treadle: Practice foot motion without thread to build rhythm.
Begin sewing: Start with simple straight stitches on scrap fabric.

CAUTION! Keep fingers away from needle area during operation. Turn hand wheel toward you only.

Specifications

Model: Singer 27 Treadle
Type: Oscillating shuttle
Stitch Type: Straight stitch only
Stitch Length: Adjustable 6-20 stitches per inch
Bobbin Type: Class 66 metal bobbins
Needle Type: Singer 15x1 household needles
Thread: Standard sewing thread
Power: Treadle foot pedal
Weight: Approximately 30 lbs (machine head only)
Manufacture Dates: 1890s-1920s

Controls and Adjustments

Access controls via front and side panels. Treadle: Foot pedal for power. Hand Wheel: Manual control and reverse.

Adjustments: Tension dial, stitch length lever, presser foot pressure, bobbin tension.

Stitch Length: Adjust with side lever (6-20 stitches per inch). Tension: Upper tension dial (higher numbers = tighter tension). Presser Foot: Lift lever to raise, lower for sewing. Bobbin Winder: Engage/disengage for bobbin filling.

Threading Instructions

Upper Threading: Spool pin to needle. Lower Threading: Bobbin case installation.

Raise presser foot and needle to highest position.
Place thread spool on spool pin.
Follow thread guides: through tension discs, take-up lever, final guides.
Thread needle from front to back.
Load bobbin: Insert bobbin in shuttle, pull thread through slot.
Bring up bobbin thread: Turn hand wheel toward you to catch upper thread.

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

Stitch Settings

Straight stitch only; adjustable length and tension.

Stitch Length: Move lever forward for shorter stitches, back for longer.
Tension Adjustment: Turn dial clockwise for tighter, counter-clockwise for looser.
Balanced Stitch: Adjust until threads lock in middle of fabric.
Fabric Types: Use shorter stitches for fine fabrics, longer for heavy materials.

WARNING! Do not force hand wheel; turn only toward you. Stop immediately if machine jams.

Maintenance and Oil Points

Regular oiling required for smooth operation. Use sewing machine oil only.

Care & Cleaning

Clean lint regularly; oil moving parts monthly with heavy use.

Unplug or disengage treadle before cleaning.
Remove lint from bobbin area and feed dogs with small brush.
Wipe exterior with soft dry cloth.
Apply oil to all moving parts as shown in oiling diagram.

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

Historical Information

Singer Model 27 manufactured from 1890s to 1920s. Known for reliability and ornate decals. Oscillating shuttle system patented by Singer. Millions produced worldwide. For historical research, contact Singer Historical Society or visit local antique sewing machine dealers.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Thread breaking	Incorrect tension/threading	Re-thread machine; adjust tension; check for burrs on needle.
Skipped stitches	Needle/dirty machine	Replace needle; clean race area; check needle installation.
Machine jams	Thread buildup	Remove bobbin case; clean shuttle area; re-thread properly.
Uneven stitches	Tension imbalance	Adjust upper and bobbin tension; check threading.
Treadle hard to operate	Needs oiling/belt tight	Oil all points; adjust belt tension; clean treadle mechanism.

Professional Service: Contact antique sewing machine specialist for major repairs.

Resources: Singer Historical Society; Antique Sewing Machine Forums