The Singer 600 is a versatile mechanical sewing machine designed for home use, featuring 600 built-in stitches, automatic needle threader, adjustable stitch length and width, built-in buttonhole function, free arm capability, drop feed for darning and quilting, and multiple presser feet. Powered by 120V AC, 60Hz. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.
Key components: Mechanical sewing head, stitch selection dial, handwheel, bobbin winder, presser foot lever, feed dogs, free arm, accessory storage.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Built-in stitches | 600 stitch patterns including utility, decorative, and stretch |
| Automatic needle threader | Easy threading with push-button mechanism |
| Adjustable stitch length | 0-4mm range for different fabric types |
| Adjustable stitch width | 0-5mm for zigzag and decorative stitches |
| Built-in buttonhole | One-step automatic buttonhole function |
| Free arm capability | Convertible for sewing sleeves and cuffs |
| Drop feed dogs | For darning, quilting, and free-motion sewing |
| Reverse stitch lever | For reinforcing seams at beginning and end |
| Presser foot pressure | Adjustable for different fabric thicknesses |
| Built-in light | LED illumination for work area |
Unpack and inspect all contents. Place on stable, level surface.
WARNING! Machine is heavy; lift with both hands. Ensure stable surface to prevent tipping.
Power on machine; follow setup sequence.
CAUTION! Keep fingers away from needle area during operation. Always turn handwheel toward you.
Main controls: Stitch selection dial, stitch length dial, stitch width dial, reverse stitch lever, handwheel.
Stitch Selection: Turn dial to select from 600 stitches (1-600). Stitch Length: 0-4mm (0 for darning, 4 for basting). Stitch Width: 0-5mm (0 for straight stitch, 5 for maximum zigzag). Reverse Stitch: Hold lever down to sew backward. Presser Foot Pressure: Adjust dial for light/heavy fabrics. Tension Control: 0-9 dial (4-6 for normal sewing).
Stitch categories: Utility (1-100), Decorative (101-400), Stretch (401-500), Buttonholes (501-600).
Tip: Always test stitch on scrap fabric before sewing project.
Upper threading path: Spool pin → thread guides → tension discs → take-up lever → needle.
WARNING! Ensure presser foot is raised when threading to engage tension discs properly.
Unplug machine before cleaning. Remove needle plate to clean lint from feed dogs and bobbin area.
CAUTION! Use only sewing machine oil. Do not use household oils. Never spray cleaners directly on machine.
Included accessories: 6 presser feet, bobbins (4), needles (5), seam ripper, brush, screwdriver, spool caps.
| Accessory | Use |
|---|---|
| All-purpose foot | General sewing, straight and zigzag stitches |
| Buttonhole foot | Automatic one-step buttonholes |
| Zipper foot | Installing zippers, piping, cording |
| Button sewing foot | Sewing on buttons |
| Blind hem foot | Creating invisible hems |
| Satin stitch foot | Decorative satin stitching |
Always unplug machine when not in use, during threading, changing needles, or cleaning. Keep fingers away from moving parts. Do not operate with damaged cord. Use proper ventilation when sewing for extended periods.
Important: This appliance is not intended for use by persons with reduced physical, sensory or mental capabilities, unless they have been given supervision or instruction.
| Symptom | Possible Cause | Corrective Action |
|---|---|---|
| Thread bunching underneath | Incorrect threading/bobbin | Re-thread upper and bobbin threads; ensure bobbin inserted correctly. |
| Needle breaks | Wrong needle/bent needle | Replace needle; ensure correct type for fabric; don't pull fabric. |
| Uneven stitches | Tension incorrect | Adjust tension dial (4-6 normal); re-thread completely. |
| Machine won't run | Power/foot controller | Check power cord connection; ensure foot controller is plugged in. |
| Thread breaks | Old thread/incorrect needle | Use fresh thread; ensure needle size matches thread weight. |
| Fabric not feeding | Feed dogs lowered | Raise feed dogs; clean lint from feed dog area. |
Reset: Unplug machine for 5 minutes to reset electronic components.
Service: For technical support, contact Singer Customer Service at 1-800-4-SINGER or visit www.singer.com