Operation/Owner Manual Singer Simple 3116

The Singer Simple 3116 is a lightweight, easy-to-use mechanical sewing machine designed for beginners and basic sewing projects. It features 6 built-in stitches, a 4-step buttonhole, adjustable stitch length and width, free arm capability, built-in thread cutter, and a drop feed for free-motion sewing. Powered by a foot pedal, it operates on standard household voltage. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Sewing machine head, Free arm, Bobbin winder, Stitch selection dial, Stitch length and width controls, Reverse stitch lever, Presser foot, Foot pedal, Power cord.

Unpacking & Setup

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

1. Remove machine from box: Lift by carrying handle, not by free arm.
2. Attach foot pedal: Connect pedal to machine port, then plug power cord into wall outlet.
3. Install needle: Loosen needle clamp screw, insert needle with flat side to back, tighten screw.
4. Wind bobbin: Place bobbin on winder, thread through guide, engage winder.
5. Insert bobbin: Open bobbin cover, drop in bobbin with thread unwinding counterclockwise.

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

First-Time Operation

Plug in power cord, turn handwheel toward you to raise needle to highest position.

1. Thread upper thread: Follow numbered guides from spool pin to needle.
2. Pull up bobbin thread: Hold upper thread, turn handwheel to bring up bobbin thread.
3. Test stitch: Place fabric under presser foot, lower foot, press pedal gently.
4. Adjust tension: If stitches are uneven, adjust upper thread tension dial.
5. Practice basic stitches: Start with straight stitch on scrap fabric.

CAUTION! Always start with needle at highest position. Keep foot pedal controlled to avoid high speed.

Specifications

• Model: Singer Simple 3116
• Stitches: 6 built-in stitches
• Buttonhole: 4-step manual
• Stitch Length: 0-4 mm adjustable
• Stitch Width: Up to 5 mm adjustable
• Max Sewing Speed: 750 stitches per minute
• Presser Feet: All-purpose foot included
• Free Arm: Yes
• Power Source: 120V AC, 60Hz (or local voltage)
• Weight: Approximately 11 lbs (5 kg)
• Warranty: 25-year limited warranty

Controls and Settings

Main controls located on right side of machine. Stitch Selection Dial: Turn to select stitch pattern (1-6). Stitch Length Dial: Adjusts length (0-4). Stitch Width Dial: Adjusts zigzag width (0-5). Reverse Stitch Lever: Hold down for reverse sewing. Handwheel: Manual control, always turn toward you. Bobbin Winder: Push bobbin to right to engage. Drop Feed Lever: Lowers feed dogs for darning.

Thread Tension: Dial on front (higher number = tighter tension). Normal setting is 4. Presser Foot Lever: Raises and lowers foot. Foot Pedal: Controls sewing speed; press gently for slow, firmly for fast.

Stitch Selection & Techniques

Select stitch using dial, adjust length/width as needed.

1. Straight Stitch (Setting 1): General sewing, length 2.5 mm recommended.
2. Zigzag Stitch (Setting 2): Finishing edges, appliqué, width 3-4 mm.
3. Blind Hem Stitch (Setting 3): Nearly invisible hems, use blind hem foot.
4. Stretch Stitch (Setting 4): For knit fabrics, prevents popped seams.
5. Decorative Stitches (Settings 5-6): For embellishment, adjust width for effect.
6. Buttonhole (4-Step): Follow markings on foot; sequence: 1-right, 2-left, 3-left, 4-right.

Tip: Always test stitch on scrap fabric of same type before sewing project.

Basic Sewing Guide

Follow these steps for successful sewing.

1. Prepare fabric: Press if needed, pin pieces right sides together.
2. Select stitch: Choose appropriate stitch and settings.
3. Position fabric: Place under presser foot, lower foot.
4. Start sewing: Press pedal gently, guide fabric with hands on either side.
5. Reverse: Hold reverse lever at beginning and end to lock stitches.
6. Finish: Raise needle, lift presser foot, pull fabric to back and cut threads.
7. Free arm: Remove accessory tray for sewing sleeves and cuffs.
8. Buttonhole: Use buttonhole foot, follow 4-step sequence slowly.

WARNING! Never pull fabric while sewing; let feed dogs move it. Keep fingers clear of needle.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance. Unplug machine before cleaning.

1. Clean lint: Remove needle plate screws, lift plate, brush lint from bobbin area.
2. Oil: Apply 1-2 drops of sewing machine oil to hook race and moving parts as manual directs.
3. Needle: Replace needle after 8-10 hours of sewing or if bent/dull.
4. Exterior: Wipe with soft, dry cloth. Do not use solvents or sprays.
5. Storage: Cover machine when not in use to prevent dust accumulation.

CAUTION! Use only Singer-recommended oil. Never oil plastic parts. Keep machine away from moisture.

Regulatory Information

UL Listed: Complies with safety standards for household sewing machines. Copyright © Singer Manufacturing Company. Trademarks owned by Singer. For support, visit www.singer.com or contact customer service at 1-800-4-SINGER. Warranty details included in packaging.

Troubleshooting

Reset: Unplug machine for 5 minutes if electronic issues occur (though mechanical model).

Service: 1-800-4-SINGER; www.singer.com for authorized service centers.