Viking 190 Sewing Machine Manual

The Viking 190 is a versatile mechanical sewing machine designed for home use, featuring straight and zigzag stitches, built-in buttonhole function, adjustable stitch length and width, free arm capability, built-in light, reverse stitching, and easy threading system. 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: Mechanical stitch selection dial, built-in buttonhole function, free arm, built-in light, reverse stitch lever, tension control dial, stitch length/width adjusters.

FeatureDescription
Stitch selection dialSelects straight, zigzag, and decorative stitches
Buttonhole function4-step built-in buttonhole maker
Free armRemovable extension table for sewing cuffs and sleeves
Built-in lightIlluminates sewing area
Reverse stitch leverReinforces stitching at beginning and end
Tension control dialAdjusts upper thread tension (0-9)
Stitch length adjusterControls stitch length (0-4 mm)
Stitch width adjusterControls zigzag width (0-5 mm)
Presser foot pressureAdjustable for different fabric types
Bobbin winding systemBuilt-in bobbin winder with automatic stop

Installation & Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable surface at comfortable height.

  1. Remove machine from packaging: Lift carefully from carrying case.
  2. Position machine: Place on sturdy table with adequate lighting.
  3. Install foot control: Plug into machine and position on floor.
  4. Connect power: Plug power cord into wall outlet (120V AC).
  5. Install needle: Loosen needle clamp screw, insert needle with flat side to back.
  6. Wind bobbin: Follow bobbin winding instructions.

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

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; test basic functions.

  1. Thread machine: Follow numbered threading guide on machine.
  2. Insert bobbin: Place bobbin in case with thread unwinding counterclockwise.
  3. Select straight stitch: Turn dial to straight stitch position.
  4. Test stitch: Place fabric under presser foot, lower foot, and press foot control.
  5. Adjust tension: Test on scrap fabric until stitches are balanced.
  6. Practice reverse: Use reverse lever to reinforce stitches.

CAUTION! Always turn handwheel toward you. Never force the machine.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Main controls located on front and side of machine.

Front Panel: Stitch selection dial, stitch length adjuster, stitch width adjuster, reverse stitch lever.

Side Controls: Tension control dial, presser foot lever, handwheel, bobbin winder.

Stitch Selection: Turn dial to select desired stitch pattern. Tension: Adjust for different fabrics (lower for stretch, higher for woven). Stitch Length: Shorter for fine fabrics, longer for basting. Stitch Width: Adjust zigzag width for different applications.

Stitch Selection

10 built-in stitches for various sewing applications.

  1. Straight stitch: Basic sewing, topstitching (position 1)
  2. Zigzag stitch: Overcasting, appliqué, stretch fabrics (position 2)
  3. 3-step zigzag: Reinforced seams, elastic application (position 3)
  4. Blind hem stitch: Nearly invisible hems (position 4)
  5. Elastic stitch: Sewing elastic, decorative effects (position 5)
  6. Shell stitch: Decorative edge finishing (position 6)
  7. Multiple zigzag: Darning, mending (position 7)
  8. Scallop stitch: Decorative edge (position 8)
  9. Double overcast: Seam finishing (position 9)
  10. Buttonhole stitch: 4-step buttonhole (positions A-D)

Tip: Always test stitches 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 guide: Place spool on pin, thread through guides.
  3. Thread take-up lever: Ensure thread passes through eye from right to left.
  4. Thread needle: From front to back, leave 4-6 inch tail.
  5. Bobbin winding: Place empty bobbin on winder, thread through tension disc.
  6. Insert bobbin: Drop into case with thread unwinding counterclockwise.
  7. Pull up bobbin thread: Hold needle thread, turn handwheel until bobbin thread appears.

WARNING! Ensure machine is unplugged during threading and bobbin changes.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance.

  1. Daily: Brush out lint from bobbin area and feed dogs.
  2. Weekly: Oil hook race and moving parts (use sewing machine oil only).
  3. Monthly: Clean tension discs with folded fabric or dental floss.
  4. Needle replacement: Change needle after every 8 hours of sewing.
  5. Storage: Cover machine when not in use to prevent dust accumulation.

CAUTION! Unplug machine before cleaning or maintenance. Use only recommended oils.

Regulatory Information

UL Listed: Complies with UL safety standards. CE Certified: Meets European safety requirements. Copyright © Viking Sewing Machines. For technical support, contact authorized Viking service centers or visit www.husqvarnaviking.com. Manufactured to ISO 9001 quality standards.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Thread breakingIncorrect threading/tensionRethread completely; reduce tension; check for burrs on needle.
Needle breakingBent needle/wrong sizeReplace needle; ensure correct size for fabric; don't pull fabric.
Uneven stitchesTension imbalanceAdjust upper tension; reinsert bobbin; check bobbin threading.
Machine jamsThread buildup/lintRemove bobbin case and clean; check for tangled thread.
Skip stitchesDull needle/wrong typeReplace needle; use correct needle for fabric type.
No powerPower connectionCheck power cord; ensure foot control plugged in; check outlet.
Bobbin won't windEngagement issuePush bobbin winder to right; ensure bobbin seated properly.

Service: Contact authorized Viking service center for repairs.

Support: 1-800-358-0001; www.husqvarnaviking.com

Viking 190 Sewing Machine Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025