Singer 257 Sewing Machine Manual

The Singer 257 is a classic mechanical sewing machine known for its durability and versatile stitching capabilities. It features a built-in stitch selection dial, reverse sewing function, adjustable stitch length and width, built-in buttonholer, free arm for cylindrical sewing, drop feed for darning and quilting, and a powerful motor. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Unpacking and Setup 3. First-Time Operation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Basic Stitching 7. Advanced Functions 8. Maintenance & Cleaning 9. Safety Information 10. Warranty & Support 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Stitch selection dial, Reverse lever, Stitch length regulator, Stitch width dial, Bobbin winder, Free arm, Drop feed lever, Foot pressure dial, Built-in light.

FeatureDescription
Stitch Selection DialSelects straight, zigzag, blind hem, and decorative stitches
Reverse LeverEngages reverse stitching for securing seams
Stitch Length RegulatorAdjusts stitch length from 0 to 4 mm
Stitch Width DialAdjusts zigzag width from 0 to 5 mm
Bobbin WinderWinds bobbin automatically while threading machine
Free ArmRemovable accessory tray for sewing sleeves and cuffs
Drop Feed LeverLowers feed dogs for darning, quilting, or free-motion sewing
Foot Pressure DialAdjusts pressure on fabric for different thicknesses
Built-in LightIlluminates sewing area
Power Switch/Foot ControlControls machine speed; foot pedal included

Unpacking and Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable table.

  1. Remove machine from box: Lift by carrying handle; avoid lifting by handwheel.
  2. Attach foot control: Plug into machine socket, then into power outlet.
  3. Install needle: Loosen needle clamp screw, insert needle with flat side to back, tighten.
  4. Wind bobbin: Place bobbin on winder, thread through tension disc, engage winder.
  5. Insert bobbin: Drop bobbin into case with thread unwinding counterclockwise.

WARNING! Machine is heavy; lift with care. Ensure power is off during setup.

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; follow threading guide.

  1. Thread upper thread: Follow numbered path on machine; raise presser foot.
  2. Draw up bobbin thread: Hold needle thread, turn handwheel toward you.
  3. Select stitch: Turn stitch selection dial to desired pattern.
  4. Adjust settings: Set stitch length and width as needed.
  5. Test sew: Use scrap fabric to check tension and stitch quality.

CAUTION! Keep fingers away from needle. Always lower presser foot before sewing.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Access controls via dials and levers on front and side.

Front Panel: Stitch selection dial, Stitch length regulator, Stitch width dial, Reverse lever, Bobbin winder stop.

Side/Bottom: Handwheel (turn toward you), Drop feed lever, Foot pressure dial, Light switch.

Stitch Selection: Turn dial to symbol (straight line, zigzag, etc.). Stitch Length: Higher number = longer stitch. Stitch Width: Adjust for zigzag or decorative stitches. Reverse: Hold lever down while sewing. Tension: Upper tension dial (3–5 for normal fabrics); bobbin tension fixed.

Basic Stitching

Straight stitch: Dial on straight line symbol. Zigzag: Dial on zigzag symbol.

  1. Prepare fabric: Place under presser foot, lower foot.
  2. Start sewing: Press foot control gently.
    3. 3. Guide fabric: Keep hands on fabric, not pulling.
  3. Reverse: Hold reverse lever at start/end to lock stitches.
  4. Finish: Raise needle, raise presser foot, pull fabric back.

Tip: Practice on scrap fabric to adjust speed and guide evenly.

Advanced Functions

Buttonhole: 4-step process using buttonhole foot.

  1. Attach buttonhole foot: Lower presser bar onto foot shank.
  2. Mark buttonhole: On fabric with chalk.
  3. Step 1: Dial on first symbol, sew left side.
  4. Step 2: Dial on second symbol, sew front bar.
  5. Step 3: Dial on third symbol, sew right side.
  6. Step 4: Dial on fourth symbol, sew back bar.
  7. Cut open: Use seam ripper carefully.

Blind Hem: Use blind hem foot and stitch. Free-motion: Drop feed dogs, use darning foot.

WARNING! Go slowly on thick layers. Always use correct foot for function.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Unplug before maintenance. Clean lint regularly.

  1. Remove needle plate: Use screwdriver to lift plate.
  2. Clean feed dogs and bobbin area: Use small brush.
  3. Oil: Apply 1–2 drops of sewing machine oil to moving parts (see diagram).
  4. Replace needle: After 8–10 hours of sewing or if damaged.
  5. Cover: Use dust cover when not in use.

CAUTION! Do not use compressed air; it can force lint deeper. Use only recommended oil.

Safety Information

Always unplug when threading, changing needle, or cleaning. Keep fingers away from needle. Do not sew over pins. Use proper lighting. Keep foot control away from children. Avoid loose clothing or hair near machine.

Warranty & Support

Singer limited warranty: 25 years on mechanical parts, 2 years on electrical. Copyright © Singer Manufacturing Co. For support, visit www.singer.com or contact 1-800-4-SINGER. Serial number located on bottom of machine.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Thread bunching underneathIncorrect threading/bobbinRe-thread top and bobbin; ensure bobbin inserted correctly.
Needle breaksWrong needle/bent needleReplace needle; ensure it is fully inserted and tight.
Machine won't runPower/plug/foot controlCheck power outlet; ensure foot control plugged in; check fuse.
Uneven stitchesTension/thread qualityAdjust upper tension; use good quality thread.
Fabric not feedingFeed dogs lowered/pressureRaise feed dogs; increase foot pressure.
Noisy operationLint/lack of oilClean and oil machine as per manual.

Reset: Unplug for 5 minutes if electrical issue.

Service: Authorized Singer service center; 1-800-4-SINGER.

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