Singer 5050C Sewing Machine Manual

The Singer 5050C is a versatile electronic sewing machine featuring 50 built-in stitches, automatic needle threader, adjustable stitch length and width, drop-in bobbin system, automatic tension control, built-in needle plate with seam guides, free arm capability, and variable speed control. Powered by 120V AC, 60Hz. 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. Stitch Selection Guide 7. Threading and Bobbin 8. Maintenance & Cleaning 9. Accessories 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Electronic control panel, Automatic needle threader, Drop-in bobbin system, Free arm, Built-in stitch selection dial, Foot pedal with speed control.

FeatureDescription
Built-in Stitches50 stitches including utility, decorative, and stretch
Automatic Needle ThreaderEasy threading with push-button mechanism
Drop-in BobbinTop-loading, see-through bobbin cover
Stitch Length/WidthAdjustable via dial controls
Automatic TensionPreset for optimal stitch quality
Free ArmConvertible for sewing cuffs and sleeves
Variable Speed ControlFoot pedal with speed limiter slider
Built-in ButtonholeOne-step automatic buttonhole
Needle PositionAdjustable up/down button
LED Work LightBright illumination of sewing area

Unpacking and Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable surface.

  1. Remove machine from packaging: Lift by carrying handle, not by free arm.
  2. Attach foot pedal: Connect pedal cord to machine port.
  3. Install needle: Loosen needle clamp screw, insert needle flat side back, tighten.
  4. Connect power: Plug power cord into machine, then into 120V outlet.
  5. Install accessories: Attach standard presser foot, place spool pins.

WARNING! Machine is heavy; lift with care. Ensure work area is clean and well-lit.

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; follow setup prompts.

  1. Thread machine: Follow numbered threading path on machine.
  2. Wind bobbin: Place thread on spool pin, guide through bobbin winder tension.
  3. Insert bobbin: Drop bobbin into case with thread clockwise, pull thread through slot.
  4. Select stitch: Turn stitch selection dial to desired pattern.
  5. Test sew: Use scrap fabric to check tension and stitch formation.

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

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Access controls via front panel. Stitch Selection Dial: Turn to select stitch pattern. Stitch Length Dial: Adjust from 0-4. Stitch Width Dial: Adjust from 0-5. Reverse Button: Hold for backstitching. Needle Up/Down Button: Set needle position. Automatic Needle Threader Lever: Push down to thread needle.

Foot Pedal: Controls sewing speed; slide limiter for slower maximum speed.

Tension Control: Automatic (preset) with manual override dial (0-9). Presser Foot Pressure: Adjustable for different fabrics. LED Light Switch: Turns work light on/off.

Stitch Selection Guide

Stitch Chart: Located on machine bed. Basic Stitches: Straight stitch (1-4), zigzag (5-7). Stretch Stitches: For knits and elastic fabrics. Decorative Stitches: Scallops, heirloom, quilting patterns.

  1. Consult stitch chart for recommended fabric and foot.
  2. Select stitch number on dial.
  3. Adjust length/width as needed.
  4. Test on fabric scrap before sewing project.

Tip: Use straight stitch (position 1) for most seams. Use zigzag for finishing edges.

Threading and Bobbin

Upper Threading:

  1. Raise presser foot and needle to highest position.
  2. Place spool on pin, guide thread through first thread guide.
  3. Pull thread down, up through tension discs.
  4. Thread take-up lever from right to left.
  5. Guide through remaining guides to needle.
  6. Use automatic needle threader or thread manually.

Bobbin Winding:

  1. Place empty bobbin on winder spindle.
  2. Guide thread from spool through bobbin winding tension.
  3. Wind bobbin evenly until automatic stop.
  4. Cut thread and insert bobbin into case.

WARNING! Always raise needle when threading. Ensure bobbin thread pulls freely.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Unplug before cleaning. Remove needle plate to clean lint from bobbin area. Use small brush provided. Oil sparingly as indicated in manual (specific points only).

CAUTION! Do not use compressed air; may force lint into mechanism. Use only Singer-recommended oil.

Accessories

Included: All-purpose foot, zipper foot, buttonhole foot, button sewing foot, seam ripper/lint brush, needles, bobbins, spool cap, auxiliary spool pin, screwdriver, foot controller, power cord.

Optional: Walking foot, quilting guide, edge/quilting foot, blind hem foot, overcasting foot.

Warranty Information

25-year limited warranty covers mechanical parts. 5-year warranty on electrical components. 1-year warranty on labor. Proof of purchase required. For service, contact authorized Singer service center. For support, visit www.singer.com or contact 1-800-4-SINGER.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Machine won't runPower/pedal connectionCheck power cord; ensure pedal is plugged in; check outlet.
Thread bunching underneathIncorrect threading/tensionRe-thread upper and bobbin thread; check bobbin insertion.
Needle breaksWrong needle/bent needleReplace with correct needle type; ensure needle is straight.
Uneven stitchesTension/thread issuesAdjust tension; use same weight thread top and bottom.
Fabric not feedingPresser foot pressure/feed dogsIncrease presser foot pressure; clean feed dogs; check stitch length.
Automatic needle threader not workingNeedle position/threadRaise needle to highest position; use finer thread; check hook alignment.

Reset: Turn power off, wait 30 seconds, restart.

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

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