Singer 1500 Sewing Machine Manual

The Singer 1500 is a versatile, heavy-duty sewing machine designed for home use, featuring a wide range of built-in stitches, automatic needle threader, adjustable stitch length and width, drop-in bobbin system, multiple presser feet, speed control, and a built-in LED light. Powered by standard household current. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Heavy-duty metal frame, built-in stitch panel, automatic needle threader, drop-in bobbin, adjustable presser foot pressure, free arm capability.

Unpacking and Setup

Unpack all components carefully. Place machine on stable, level surface.

1. Remove machine from packaging: Lift machine by base, not by handwheel or accessories.
2. Attach foot controller: Plug into machine port and electrical outlet.
3. Install needle: Loosen needle clamp screw, insert needle with flat side to back, tighten screw.
4. Wind bobbin: Place thread on spool pin, follow threading guide, wind bobbin evenly.
5. Insert bobbin: Drop bobbin into case with thread unwinding counterclockwise.

WARNING! Machine is heavy; use proper lifting technique. Ensure work area is well-lit and free of obstacles.

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; familiarize yourself with basic controls.

1. Thread upper thread: Follow numbered threading path on machine; use automatic needle threader.
2. Pull up bobbin thread: Hold upper thread, turn handwheel toward you to bring up bobbin thread.
3. Select straight stitch: Use stitch selector dial for basic stitch (position 1).
4. Test on scrap fabric: Place fabric under presser foot, lower foot, press foot controller gently.
5. Adjust tension: If stitches are uneven, adjust upper thread tension dial.

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

Specifications

• Model: Singer 1500
• Stitches: 150 built-in stitches
• Stitch Length: Adjustable up to 4mm
• Stitch Width: Adjustable up to 5mm
• Speed: Up to 850 stitches per minute
• Needle Positions: Left, center, right
• Presser Feet: 8 included (all-purpose, zipper, buttonhole, etc.)
• Bobbin: Class 15 transparent bobbin
• Power Source: 110V, 60Hz (US standard)
• Weight: 15.4 lbs (7 kg)
• Warranty: 25-year limited warranty

Controls and Settings

Main control panel located on front right of machine.

Stitch Selector: Dial to choose from 150 stitch patterns. Stitch Length Dial: Controls stitch length (0-4mm). Stitch Width Dial: Controls stitch width for zigzag and decorative stitches. Reverse Stitch Button: Hold for backstitching. Thread Tension Dial: Adjusts upper thread tension (1-9). Presser Foot Pressure Dial: Adjusts pressure for different fabric thicknesses. Speed Control Slider: Limits maximum sewing speed. Needle Position Switch: Changes needle position (left, center, right).

Threading the Machine

Proper threading is essential for smooth operation.

1. Raise presser foot and needle to highest position.
2. Place thread spool on spool pin.
3. Follow threading guide numbers: Through first thread guide, tension discs, take-up lever, final thread guide.
4. Use automatic needle threader: Push lever down, hook thread through hook, release lever.
5. Pull thread under presser foot toward back of machine.

Tip: Always thread with presser foot raised to allow thread to seat properly in tension discs.

Stitch Selection and Adjustment

Machine offers utility, decorative, and stretch stitches.

1. Select stitch: Turn stitch selector dial to desired pattern number.
2. Adjust length: Set stitch length dial (shorter for finer fabrics, longer for basting).
3. Adjust width: For zigzag and decorative stitches, set width dial.
4. Test stitch: Always test on scrap fabric of same type as project.
5. Special stitches: Use appropriate presser foot for buttonholes, zippers, blind hems.
6. Buttonhole: Select buttonhole stitch, place button in foot, machine creates perfectly sized buttonhole.
7. Decorative stitches: Use stabilizer underneath lightweight fabrics for best results.

WARNING! Do not force handwheel if machine jams. Turn off power and remove fabric to clear jam.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance.

1. Daily: Brush lint from bobbin area and feed dogs.
2. Weekly: Remove needle plate to clean underneath.
3. Monthly: Oil machine according to diagram in manual (use only Singer sewing machine oil).
4. Needle replacement: Replace needle after every 8 hours of sewing or with each new project.
5. Storage: Cover machine when not in use to prevent dust accumulation.

CAUTION! Unplug machine before cleaning or maintenance. Never use compressed air as it can force lint deeper into mechanism.

Accessories Included

• All-purpose foot
• Zipper foot
• Buttonhole foot
• Blind hem foot
• Button sewing foot
• Overcasting foot
• Quilting guide
• Seam ripper/lint brush
• Extra needles (assorted sizes)
• Class 15 bobbins (4)
• Screwdriver
• Spool pin felt

Warranty Information

Singer 1500 comes with 25-year limited warranty covering mechanical parts. Electronic components covered for 2 years. Warranty valid only for original purchaser with proof of purchase. Does not cover damage from misuse, improper maintenance, commercial use, or unauthorized repairs. For warranty service, contact authorized Singer service center. For support, visit www.singer.com or contact 1-800-4-SINGER.

Troubleshooting

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

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