Singer 600 Stitching Manual

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.

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. Safety Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Mechanical sewing head, stitch selection dial, handwheel, bobbin winder, presser foot lever, feed dogs, free arm, accessory storage.

FeatureDescription
Built-in stitches600 stitch patterns including utility, decorative, and stretch
Automatic needle threaderEasy threading with push-button mechanism
Adjustable stitch length0-4mm range for different fabric types
Adjustable stitch width0-5mm for zigzag and decorative stitches
Built-in buttonholeOne-step automatic buttonhole function
Free arm capabilityConvertible for sewing sleeves and cuffs
Drop feed dogsFor darning, quilting, and free-motion sewing
Reverse stitch leverFor reinforcing seams at beginning and end
Presser foot pressureAdjustable for different fabric thicknesses
Built-in lightLED illumination for work area

Unpacking and Setup

Unpack and inspect all contents. Place on stable, level surface.

  1. Remove machine from packaging: Lift carefully from carrying case.
  2. Attach power cord: Plug into machine port and wall outlet (120V).
  3. Install foot controller: Connect to machine port, place on floor.
  4. Attach accessory tray: Snap into position on free arm.
  5. Insert needle: Loosen needle clamp screw, insert needle with flat side to back.

WARNING! Machine is heavy; lift with both hands. Ensure stable surface to prevent tipping.

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; follow setup sequence.

  1. Thread upper thread: Follow numbered threading path on machine.
  2. Wind bobbin: Place empty bobbin on winder, thread through tension disc.
  3. Insert bobbin: Drop bobbin into case with thread unwinding clockwise.
  4. Select stitch: Turn dial to desired stitch number.
  5. Test sew: Use scrap fabric to check tension and stitch formation.

CAUTION! Keep fingers away from needle area during operation. Always turn handwheel toward you.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

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 Selection Guide

Stitch categories: Utility (1-100), Decorative (101-400), Stretch (401-500), Buttonholes (501-600).

  1. Straight stitches: 1-25 for seams, topstitching, basting.
  2. Zigzag stitches: 26-50 for finishing edges, appliqué.
  3. Decorative stitches: 101-400 for embellishments, borders.
  4. Stretch stitches: 401-500 for knit fabrics, elastic.
  5. Buttonholes: 501-600 one-step automatic.

Tip: Always test stitch on scrap fabric before sewing project.

Threading and Bobbin

Upper threading path: Spool pin → thread guides → tension discs → take-up lever → needle.

  1. Raise presser foot and needle to highest position.
  2. Place thread spool on pin, pull thread through first guide.
  3. Follow numbered path on machine to tension discs.
  4. Thread through take-up lever from right to left.
  5. Thread needle from front to back using automatic threader or manually.
  6. Wind bobbin: Place empty bobbin on winder, engage clutch, press foot controller.
  7. Insert bobbin: Drop into case with thread unwinding clockwise, pull thread through slot.

WARNING! Ensure presser foot is raised when threading to engage tension discs properly.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Unplug machine before cleaning. Remove needle plate to clean lint from feed dogs and bobbin area.

  1. Weekly: Brush lint from bobbin case and feed dogs.
  2. Monthly: Oil moving parts with sewing machine oil (2-3 drops).
  3. As needed: Clean exterior with soft, dry cloth.
  4. Replace needle: After 8 hours of sewing or if damaged.

CAUTION! Use only sewing machine oil. Do not use household oils. Never spray cleaners directly on machine.

Accessories

Included accessories: 6 presser feet, bobbins (4), needles (5), seam ripper, brush, screwdriver, spool caps.

AccessoryUse
All-purpose footGeneral sewing, straight and zigzag stitches
Buttonhole footAutomatic one-step buttonholes
Zipper footInstalling zippers, piping, cording
Button sewing footSewing on buttons
Blind hem footCreating invisible hems
Satin stitch footDecorative satin stitching

Safety Information

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.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Thread bunching underneathIncorrect threading/bobbinRe-thread upper and bobbin threads; ensure bobbin inserted correctly.
Needle breaksWrong needle/bent needleReplace needle; ensure correct type for fabric; don't pull fabric.
Uneven stitchesTension incorrectAdjust tension dial (4-6 normal); re-thread completely.
Machine won't runPower/foot controllerCheck power cord connection; ensure foot controller is plugged in.
Thread breaksOld thread/incorrect needleUse fresh thread; ensure needle size matches thread weight.
Fabric not feedingFeed dogs loweredRaise 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

Singer 600 Stitching Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025