Installation Guide
Tools Needed:
- Screwdriver set
- Adjustable wrench
- Needle nose pliers
- Lubricating oil
- Clean cloth
Step-by-Step Installation
- Unpack and Inspect: Carefully remove all packaging materials and check for any shipping damage or missing parts.
- Assemble Base and Stand: Attach the sewing machine head to the wooden cabinet or portable case according to instructions.
- Install Needle: Insert the needle with the flat side facing the back, tightening the needle clamp screw securely.
- Thread the Machine: Follow the threading diagram from spool pin through tension discs to needle eye.
- Wind Bobbin: Place empty bobbin on winder, thread through tension, and engage bobbin winding mechanism.
- Insert Bobbin: Place wound bobbin in bobbin case, pulling thread through tension spring.
- Test Stitches: Run machine slowly on scrap fabric to check stitch formation and tension settings.
Specifications
| Model Series | Singer 201K / 66K Classic |
| Type | Manual Treadle / Hand Crank |
| Color | Black with Gold Decals |
| Weight | 12.5 kg (Machine Head) |
| Stitch Type | Straight Lockstitch |
| Stitch Length | Adjustable 0-4 mm |
| Presser Feet | Standard, Zipper, Buttonhole |
| Bobbin Type | Class 66 Metal Bobbins |
| Needle System | 15x1 (HAx1) |
| Dimensions (HxWxD) | 30 x 45 x 60 cm (with case) |
| Max Fabric Thickness | Heavy Denim / Canvas |
| Year of Manufacture | 1950-1970 (Vintage) |
Purchase Information
- Condition: Fully Restored / Original Condition
- Price Range: $200 - $800 depending on condition
- Availability: Limited Vintage Stock
- Shipping: Worldwide available with custom crate
For purchase inquiries, contact Singer Vintage Department at 1-800-4-SINGER or visit SingerVintage.com
Key Features
All-Metal Construction
Built with durable cast iron and steel components that last generations. No plastic gears that wear out over time.
Straight Stitch Perfection
Produces perfect, consistent straight stitches ideal for garment construction, quilting, and heavy-duty sewing projects.
Reverse Stitching
Built-in reverse lever allows for back-tacking to secure seams without manually turning fabric.
Adjustable Tension
Precise upper thread tension control for perfect stitches on all fabric types from silk to leather.
Portable Design
Fits in original carrying case for easy transport. Can be used with hand crank or treadle base.
No Electricity Required
Operates completely manually - perfect for remote locations, outdoor use, or as backup during power outages.
Sewing Capabilities
Garment Construction
Perfect for dressmaking, tailoring, and alterations with consistent stitch quality
Quilting
Straight stitch ideal for piecing and straight-line quilting with even feed
Home Decor
Handles heavy fabrics like canvas, denim, and upholstery materials with ease
Leather Work
Powerful enough to sew through multiple layers of leather and vinyl
Repairs
Excellent for mending clothes, bags, and household items with durable stitches
Craft Projects
Versatile for all types of sewing crafts from toys to accessories
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Thread breaking | Incorrect threading, damaged needle, tension too tight | Re-thread completely, replace needle, reduce tension |
| Skipped stitches | Blunt needle, incorrect needle type, poor thread quality | Change needle, use correct needle for fabric, use quality thread |
| Machine hard to turn | Lack of oil, thread jam, lint buildup | Oil all moving parts, remove thread jam, clean lint |
| Uneven stitches | Incorrect tension, uneven feeding, worn feed dogs | Adjust tension, check presser foot pressure, replace feed dogs |
| Thread bunching underneath | Bobbin threaded incorrectly, bobbin tension too loose | Re-thread bobbin, adjust bobbin tension screw |
| Needle hitting throat plate | Needle bent, needle incorrectly inserted, timing off | Replace needle, reinsert correctly, check hook timing |
Maintenance Tips
- Daily: Brush out lint, wipe exterior with soft cloth
- Weekly: Oil moving parts with sewing machine oil
- Monthly: Clean bobbin area thoroughly, check belt tension
- Yearly: Professional servicing recommended for vintage machines
- Storage: Cover when not in use, store in dry place
- Transport: Always secure handwheel, remove needle
Manual Downloads
Classic Manual Singer Models
Singer 201K
Classic Straight Stitch
Singer 66K
Red Eye Treadle
Singer 99K
Portable 3/4 Size
Singer 15K
Original Treadle
Restoration Manuals
Restoration Guide
Complete Vintage Restoration
Parts Catalog
Vintage Parts Reference
Oil Chart
Lubrication Guide
Dating Guide
Identify Your Singer