Singer 500A User Manual

The Singer 500A is a classic sewing machine featuring a full rotary hook, built-in stitch patterns, automatic needle threader, adjustable stitch length and width, free arm capability, built-in buttonholer, and drop feed for darning and free-motion sewing. Powered by 120V AC, 60Hz. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Sewing head with built-in stitch patterns, Foot controller, Power cord, Bobbins, Needles, Seam ripper, Buttonhole foot, Zipper foot.

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable surface at comfortable height.

1. Remove machine from carrying case and place on table.
2. Attach foot controller: Plug into machine port.
3. Connect power cord: Plug into machine and wall outlet.
4. Install needle: Loosen needle clamp screw, insert needle with flat side to back, tighten screw.
5. Wind bobbin: Place thread on spool pin, follow threading guide, engage bobbin winder.

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

First-Time Setup

Prepare machine for first use.

1. Thread upper thread: Follow numbered threading path on machine.
2. Insert bobbin: Open bobbin cover, insert bobbin with thread unwinding counterclockwise.
3. Bring up bobbin thread: Hold upper thread, turn handwheel toward you to bring up bobbin thread.
4. Select stitch: Turn stitch selector to desired pattern.
5. Adjust settings: Set stitch length and width as needed.
6. Test sew: Use scrap fabric to test stitch formation.

CAUTION! Always raise needle to highest position before removing fabric. Ensure proper threading to prevent thread jams.

Specifications

• Type: Mechanical sewing machine.
• Stitches: Built-in patterns including straight, zigzag, blind hem, stretch stitches.
• Stitch Length: 0-4 mm adjustable.
• Stitch Width: 0-5 mm adjustable for zigzag.
• Buttonholes: One-step automatic.
• Presser Feet: Standard, zipper, buttonhole, button sewing, blind hem feet included.
• Bobbin: Class 15 transparent bobbin.
• Needles: Standard domestic needles size 11/80 to 16/100.
• Power Source: 120V AC, 60Hz.
• Motor: Standard sewing machine motor with foot control.

Controls and Settings

Main controls located on front and side of machine.

Front Panel: Stitch selector dial, Stitch length control, Stitch width control, Reverse stitch lever, Bobbin winder stop, Drop feed lever.

Side/Rear: Handwheel, Power/light switch, Foot controller jack, Bobbin cover release.

Stitch Selection: Turn dial to select pattern (straight stitch at 0, zigzag at 1-5, decorative patterns at 6-10). Stitch Length: Higher numbers = longer stitches. Stitch Width: Controls zigzag width; set to 0 for straight stitch. Reverse: Hold lever down to sew backwards. Drop Feed: Lower feed dogs for darning or quilting.

Connecting Accessories

Various presser feet and accessories expand machine capabilities.

1. Turn off machine and raise presser foot lever.
2. Remove current foot: Lower presser foot lever, press foot release button at back of ankle.
3. Attach new foot: Position foot so pin aligns with groove on ankle, lower presser foot lever to lock.
4. Select appropriate stitch: For zipper foot, use straight stitch; for buttonhole foot, use buttonhole setting.

Tip: Ensure needle is in highest position when changing feet. Refer to accessory manual for specific usage instructions.

Basic Sewing Operations

Follow these steps for common sewing tasks.

1. Straight stitch: Select 0 on stitch dial, adjust length (2.5 mm recommended for medium fabrics).
2. Zigzag stitch: Select 1-5 on dial, adjust width and length as needed.
3. Buttonholes: Attach buttonhole foot, select buttonhole setting, place fabric under foot, lower lever, sew automatically.
4. Reverse stitching: Hold reverse lever to secure beginning and end of seams.
5. Free-motion sewing: Lower feed dogs, use darning foot, move fabric manually in any direction.
6. Blind hem: Use blind hem foot and appropriate stitch setting for nearly invisible hems.
7. Gathering: Use longer stitch length (3.5-4 mm), sew two parallel rows, pull bobbin threads to gather.

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

Maintenance & Care

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance.

1. Cleaning: Unplug machine. Remove needle plate, bobbin case, and use small brush to remove lint.
2. Oiling: Apply 1-2 drops of sewing machine oil to hook race and moving parts as indicated in diagram (every 8-10 hours of use).
3. Needle replacement: Replace needle after 8-10 hours of sewing or if bent/dull.
4. Storage: Cover machine when not in use to prevent dust accumulation.

CAUTION! Use only sewing machine oil. Do not use household oils. Unplug before cleaning or oiling.

Regulatory Information

UL Listed: Complies with safety standards for household sewing machines. Copyright © Singer Manufacturing Company. For support, visit www.singer.com or contact 1-800-4-SINGER. This product is designed for household use only.

Troubleshooting

Reset: Unplug machine for 5 minutes to reset electronic components if applicable.

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