Singer 5050 C Manual

The Singer 5050 C is a versatile sewing machine designed for home use, featuring a range of built-in stitches, automatic needle threading, adjustable stitch length and width, free arm capability, and multiple presser feet for various sewing techniques. 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 Functions 6. Stitch Selection and Settings 7. Using Presser Feet 8. Maintenance and Cleaning 9. Safety Information 10. Warranty and Support 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Built-in stitch patterns, Automatic needle threader, Free arm, Drop feed for darning/quilting, Reverse stitch lever, Stitch length/width dials, Bobbin winder, LED light.

FeatureDescription
Built-in stitches50 stitch patterns including utility, decorative, and stretch stitches
Automatic needle threaderSimplifies threading of the needle
Free armRemovable accessory tray for sewing cylindrical items like sleeves
Drop feedLowers feed dogs for free-motion sewing or darning
Reverse stitch leverAllows sewing in reverse to secure seams
Stitch length dialAdjusts stitch length from 0 to 4 mm
Stitch width dialAdjusts stitch width from 0 to 5 mm for zigzag and decorative stitches
Bobbin winderBuilt-in bobbin winding system
LED lightIlluminates the sewing area
Presser feet includedAll-purpose foot, zipper foot, buttonhole foot, button sewing foot

Unpacking and Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on a stable, flat surface.

  1. Remove machine and accessories from packaging.
  2. Attach power cord to machine and plug into a 120V AC outlet.
  3. Install foot controller into the appropriate jack.
  4. Attach the accessory tray to the free arm if removed.
  5. Wind and insert the bobbin following the threading diagram.

WARNING! Ensure the machine is unplugged during initial setup. Handle with care to avoid injury.

First-Time Operation

Power on the machine; follow threading guide.

  1. Thread the machine: Follow the numbered threading path on the machine.
  2. Use the automatic needle threader: Lower the lever to thread the needle automatically.
  3. Wind the bobbin: Place thread on spool pin, guide through bobbin winder tension, and engage winder.
  4. Insert bobbin: Place bobbin in case with thread unwinding counterclockwise; pull thread through slot.
  5. Select a stitch: Turn the stitch pattern dial to desired stitch.
  6. Test sew on scrap fabric to adjust tension and stitch settings.

CAUTION! Keep fingers away from the needle area during operation.

Specifications

Controls and Functions

Access controls via dials and levers on the front and side of the machine.

Front Panel: Stitch pattern dial, Stitch length dial, Stitch width dial, Reverse stitch lever, Bobbin winder, Power switch, LED light switch.

Stitch Selection: Turn pattern dial to select stitch (numbered 1-50). Stitch Adjustment: Use length dial for stitch length, width dial for zigzag width. Reverse: Hold lever to sew in reverse. Bobbin Winding: Engage winder to stop needle movement and wind bobbin. Drop Feed: Lower feed dogs for free-motion work.

Stitch Selection and Settings

Select from 50 stitches including straight, zigzag, stretch, and decorative.

  1. Turn pattern dial to desired stitch number (refer to stitch chart).
  2. Adjust stitch length: Higher numbers for longer stitches, lower for shorter.
  3. Adjust stitch width: For zigzag and decorative stitches, set width as needed.
  4. Test on scrap fabric to ensure proper tension and appearance.
  5. Use reverse lever at beginning and end of seams to lock stitches.

Tip: Refer to the stitch guide for recommended settings for different fabrics.

Using Presser Feet

Includes multiple presser feet for different sewing tasks.

  1. All-purpose foot: For general sewing, zigzag, and decorative stitches.
  2. Zipper foot: For inserting zippers and piping.
  3. Buttonhole foot: For creating automatic buttonholes (one-step).
  4. Button sewing foot: For attaching buttons.
  5. To change foot: Raise needle, lift presser foot lever, snap off old foot, snap on new foot.

WARNING! Ensure the needle is raised and machine is off when changing presser feet.

Maintenance and Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance.

  1. Unplug machine before cleaning.
  2. Remove needle plate to clean lint and dust from feed dogs and bobbin area.
  3. Use a small brush to clean lint from tension discs and thread path.
  4. Oil moving parts as per manual instructions (use only Singer sewing machine oil).
  5. Replace needle regularly (after every 8-10 hours of sewing).

CAUTION! Do not use compressed air or liquids for cleaning. Keep machine covered when not in use.

Safety Information

Always follow safety guidelines to prevent injury or damage.

Warranty and Support

Singer 5050 C comes with a 25-year limited warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. For warranty service, contact Singer customer support with proof of purchase. For technical support, visit www.singer.com or call 1-800-4-SINGER. Copyright © Singer Manufacturing Company. All rights reserved.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Machine does not runPower connectionCheck power cord is plugged in; ensure foot controller is connected.
Thread bunching underneathIncorrect threading/bobbinRe-thread top and bobbin; ensure bobbin is inserted correctly.
Needle breaksWrong needle/thread tensionReplace needle; ensure correct needle for fabric; adjust tension.
Stitches skippingNeedle issue/threadingReplace needle; re-thread machine; check needle is inserted fully.
Uneven stitchesTension settingsAdjust thread tension; clean tension discs; use correct thread.
Buttonhole not formingFoot not attached properlyRe-attach buttonhole foot; ensure fabric is under foot correctly.

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

Service: 1-800-4-SINGER; www.singer.com

Singer 5050 C Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025