Singer 538 Sewing Machine Instruction Manual

The Singer 538 is a versatile mechanical sewing machine designed for home use, featuring a variety of built-in stitches, adjustable stitch length and width, a drop-in bobbin system, built-in buttonholer, free arm capability, and multiple presser feet for different sewing techniques. It operates on standard household power (120V AC) and includes essential accessories. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Mechanical sewing head, Stitch selection dial, Stitch length/width controls, Reverse stitch lever, Bobbin winder, Free arm, Built-in light, Foot pedal, and accessory box.

Unpacking and Setup

Unpack all contents carefully. Place machine on a stable, flat surface.

1. Remove machine from box: Lift by the carrying handle, not by the free arm.
2. Attach power cord: Plug into machine port and then into a 120V AC outlet.
3. Install foot pedal: Connect to machine port and place on floor.
4. Attach accessory tray: Snap into place at front of free arm.
5. Insert needle: Loosen needle clamp screw, insert needle with flat side to the back, tighten screw.

WARNING! Keep fingers away from needle area during setup and operation. Ensure machine is unplugged during needle installation.

First-Time Operation

Plug in machine and turn on power switch (if equipped).

1. Wind bobbin: Place thread on spool pin, guide through tension disc, wind onto bobbin using bobbin winder.
2. Insert bobbin: Drop bobbin into case with thread unwinding counterclockwise; pull thread through slot.
3. Thread upper thread: Follow numbered guides on machine from spool to needle.
4. Draw up bobbin thread: Hold upper thread, turn handwheel toward you to bring needle down and up; pull upper thread to bring bobbin thread loop up.
5. Select stitch: Turn stitch selection dial to desired pattern (e.g., straight stitch).
6. Test sew: Place fabric under presser foot, lower foot, and gently press foot pedal.

CAUTION! Always lower presser foot before sewing. Start at slow speed to get accustomed to machine.

Specifications

• Type: Mechanical Sewing Machine
• Model: Singer 538
• Stitches: 23 built-in stitches
• Stitch Length: 0–4 mm adjustable
• Stitch Width: 0–5 mm adjustable
• Bobbin: Class 15 transparent top-loading
• Needle: Standard domestic sewing machine needle (size 11/80 recommended for general use)
• Max Sewing Speed: Up to 750 stitches per minute
• Power Supply: 120V AC, 60Hz
• Light Bulb: 15-watt bulb (replaceable)
• Weight: Approx. 13 lbs (5.9 kg)

Controls and Settings

Main controls located on front and right side of machine.

Stitch Selection Dial: Turn to select stitch pattern (symbols correspond to stitch type). Stitch Length Dial: Adjust for shorter/longer stitches (higher number = longer stitch). Stitch Width Dial: Adjust for wider/narrower zigzag (0 for straight stitch). Reverse Stitch Lever: Press and hold to sew in reverse. Handwheel: Turn toward you to manually raise/lower needle. Presser Foot Lever: Raises and lowers presser foot. Tension Dial: Adjust upper thread tension (usually set to 4 for balanced stitches).

Tip: Refer to stitch guide printed on machine for recommended settings for each stitch.

Basic Sewing Techniques

Follow these steps for common sewing tasks.

1. Straight Stitch: Select straight stitch symbol, set width to 0, length to 2–2.5. Guide fabric evenly.
2. Zigzag Stitch: Select zigzag symbol, adjust width and length as needed for finishing edges or sewing stretch fabrics.
3. Buttonhole: Attach buttonhole foot, select buttonhole symbol, place fabric under foot, lower lever, and sew automatically.
4. Reverse Stitching: Press and hold reverse lever at start and end of seam to lock stitches.
5. Free Arm Sewing: Remove accessory tray to access free arm for sewing sleeves and cuffs.

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

Stitch Selection Guide

Adjust tension if stitches appear loose or puckered.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Unplug machine before any maintenance.

1. Cleaning: Use small brush to remove lint from bobbin area and feed dogs. Wipe exterior with soft, dry cloth.
2. Oiling: Apply 1–2 drops of sewing machine oil to designated points (see diagram in manual) every few months or after extensive use.
3. Needle Replacement: Replace needle after every project or if bent/dull. Use correct type and size for fabric.
4. Bulb Replacement: Unscrew light cover, replace with 15-watt bulb, screw cover back on.

CAUTION! Do not use compressed air; it can force lint into mechanics. Use only sewing machine oil.

Accessories Included

• All-purpose presser foot (attached)
• Zipper foot
• Buttonhole foot
• Button sewing foot
• Class 15 bobbins (3)
• Needles (assorted sizes)
• Seam ripper/lint brush
• Screwdriver
• Spool pin felt
• Instruction manual

Store accessories in provided tray or case.

Safety Information

FCC Part 15: Class B device; complies with residential interference limits. Copyright © Singer Manufacturing Co. For support, visit www.singer.com or contact 1-800-4-SINGER.

Important Safety Rules:

1. Always unplug machine when not in use, during threading, needle changes, or cleaning.
2. Keep hands, hair, and loose clothing away from moving parts.
3. Use proper needle and thread for fabric to avoid breakage.
4. Do not sew over pins; remove them as you sew.
5. Ensure adequate lighting in sewing area.

Troubleshooting

Reset: Unplug for 5 minutes if electronic controls behave unexpectedly.

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