Manual for Singer Sewing Machine SM024

The Singer SM024 is a versatile household sewing machine designed for basic to intermediate sewing projects. It features multiple built-in stitches, adjustable stitch length and width, a four-step buttonhole, free arm capability, built-in needle threader, top drop-in bobbin system, and reverse sewing function. Powered by a standard household electrical outlet. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Sewing head with stitch selection dial, Handwheel, Bobbin winder, Presser foot, Needle plate, Free arm, Foot pedal, Power cord.

Unpacking and Setup

Unpack and inspect all contents. Place on a stable, flat surface.

1. Remove machine from box: Lift by the carrying handle, not by the free arm.
2. Attach accessory tray: Slide onto the front of the machine base.
3. Connect foot pedal: Plug cord into the jack on the right side of the machine.
4. Connect power: Plug power cord into machine and then into a 120V AC outlet.
5. Install needle: Loosen needle clamp screw, insert needle with flat side to the back, tighten screw.

WARNING! Machine is heavy; use care when lifting. Ensure all connections are secure before powering on.

First-Time Operation

Power on machine using the power switch; the light should illuminate.

1. Wind the bobbin: Place thread spool on pin, guide thread through bobbin winder tension, place empty bobbin on winder shaft, push shaft to right, press foot pedal.
2. Insert bobbin: Open bobbin cover, drop in bobbin with thread unwinding counterclockwise, pull thread through slot and under tension spring.
3. Thread the upper thread: Follow numbered guides on machine, use built-in needle threader if needed.
4. Raise presser foot and pull up bobbin thread: Turn handwheel toward you to bring needle down and up, pull upper thread to bring bobbin loop up.
5. Select stitch: Turn stitch selection dial to desired pattern.
6. Test sew: Place fabric under presser foot, lower foot, and gently press foot pedal.

CAUTION! Keep fingers away from needle area during operation. Always turn power off when threading or changing accessories.

Specifications

• Model: Singer SM024.
• Type: Electric, Household Sewing Machine.
• Stitches: 24 Built-in stitches including utility and decorative.
• Buttonhole: 4-Step manual buttonhole.
• Max Stitch Length: 4mm.
• Max Stitch Width: 5mm.
• Speed: Up to 750 stitches per minute.
• Needle System: HAx1 (15x1).
• Bobbin: Class 15 transparent bobbin.
• Power Supply: 120V AC, 60Hz.
• Weight: Approx. 13.2 lbs (6 kg).

Controls and Functions

Access controls via dials and levers on the front and side of the machine.

Front Panel: Stitch Selection Dial, Stitch Length Dial, Stitch Width Dial, Reverse Sewing Lever, Bobbin Winder, Handwheel, Power/Light Switch.

Stitch Selection: Turn dial to select from straight, zigzag, blind hem, stretch, and decorative stitches. Stitch Length: Adjust from 0 (for darning) to 4mm. Stitch Width: Adjust from 0 to 5mm for zigzag and decorative stitches. Reverse Sewing: Hold lever down to sew in reverse for backtacking. Presser Foot Pressure: Dial on top of machine; increase for thick fabrics, decrease for thin or delicate fabrics.

Threading the Machine

Proper threading is essential for good stitch formation.

1. Raise presser foot and needle to highest position using handwheel.
2. Place thread spool on spool pin.
3. Follow threading guide numbers: Pull thread to the left through first thread guide, down into tension discs, up and into the take-up lever, then down through remaining guides.
4. Thread the needle: Use built-in needle threader by pulling lever down, hooking thread, and releasing lever to pull thread through needle eye. Alternatively, thread manually.
5. Pull about 4 inches of thread toward the back of the machine.

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

Basic Sewing Techniques

Supports a variety of sewing tasks from seams to buttonholes.

1. Straight Stitch: Select straight stitch (position 1). Adjust length as needed. Guide fabric gently.
2. Zigzag Stitch: Select zigzag pattern. Adjust width for finishing edges or sewing stretch fabrics.
3. Blind Hem: Use blind hem stitch and blind hem foot for nearly invisible hems.
4. Four-Step Buttonhole:
   • Step 1: Select buttonhole stitch (position A). Sew left side.
   • Step 2: Select position B. Sew front bartack.
   • Step 3: Select position C. Sew right side.
   • Step 4: Select position D. Sew rear bartack.
5. Reverse Sewing: Hold reverse lever to sew a few stitches backward at start and end of seam for reinforcement.
6. Free Arm Sewing: Remove accessory tray to access free arm for sewing sleeves, cuffs, and pant legs.

WARNING! Do not pull fabric; let the feed dogs move it. Always use the correct presser foot for the stitch.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Unplug machine before any maintenance.

1. Cleaning: Use the small brush provided to remove lint from bobbin area and feed dogs. Wipe exterior with a soft, dry cloth.
2. Oiling: Apply one drop of sewing machine oil to the hook race (bobbin area) after every 8-10 hours of use. Do not over-oil.
3. Needle Replacement: Replace needle after every project or if bent/dull. Use correct type (Universal 80/12 for medium weight fabrics).
4. Storage: Cover machine when not in use to prevent dust accumulation.

CAUTION! Never use compressed air to clean lint as it can force debris into mechanisms. Use only sewing machine oil.

Accessories

Standard accessories included:

• All-Purpose Foot
• Zipper Foot
• Buttonhole Foot
• Blind Hem Foot
• Bobbin (3 pcs) - Class 15 transparent
• Needles (3 pcs) - Size 80/12
• Seam Ripper/Brush
• Screwdriver
• Spool Pin Felt
• Power Cord & Foot Pedal

Additional accessories available for purchase: Quilting foot, Rolled hem foot, Walking foot.

Safety Information

Read all instructions before use.

• Always unplug machine when not in use, before changing needles, or when cleaning.
• Keep fingers away from moving parts, especially the needle area.
• Do not use machine if cord or foot pedal is damaged.
• Use only with correct power source (120V AC).
• This appliance is not intended for use by persons with reduced physical, sensory or mental capabilities.
• Close supervision is necessary when used near children.

Troubleshooting

Reset: Unplug machine for 5 minutes to reset electronic components if experiencing erratic behavior.

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