singer cg 550 c manual

The Singer CG 550 C is a versatile and reliable sewing machine designed for both beginners and experienced sewers. It features a range of built-in stitches, an automatic needle threader, adjustable stitch length and width, a drop feed for free-motion sewing, and a built-in LED light for enhanced visibility. Below are key sections covering safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Sewing machine head, Foot pedal, Power cord, Accessory box, Instruction manual.

Feature	Description
Built-in Stitches	55 built-in utility, decorative, and stretch stitches
Automatic Needle Threader	Easily threads the needle with a simple lever
Adjustable Stitch Length/Width	Customize stitch length (0-4mm) and width (0-5mm)
Drop Feed	Lowers feed dogs for free-motion sewing and quilting
Built-in LED Light	Illuminates the sewing area for better visibility
Top Drop-in Bobbin	Easy-to-load bobbin system with clear cover
Stitch Selector Dial	Select stitches easily with a turn of the dial
Reverse Stitch Button	Reinforce seams with a simple press
Free Arm	Removable accessory tray for sewing cuffs and sleeves
Presser Foot Pressure	Adjustable for different fabric thicknesses

Unpacking and Setup

Carefully unpack and inspect all contents. Place on a stable, flat surface.

1. Remove machine from box: Lift by the carrying handle, not by the free arm.
2. Attach foot pedal: Connect to the port on the right side of the machine.
3. Connect power: Plug power cord into machine and then into a 120V AC outlet.
4. Install needle: Loosen needle clamp screw, insert needle with flat side facing back, tighten screw.
5. Attach presser foot: Raise presser foot lever, snap foot into place.

WARNING! Machine is heavy; lift with care to avoid injury. Ensure all connections are secure before powering on.

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; follow these steps to begin sewing.

1. Wind bobbin: Place thread on spool pin, guide through tension disc, wind onto bobbin.
2. Insert bobbin: Place wound bobbin into bobbin case with thread pulling counterclockwise.
3. Thread upper thread: Follow numbered threading path on machine; use automatic needle threader.
4. Raise bobbin thread: Hold upper thread, turn handwheel toward you to bring up bobbin thread.
5. Select stitch: Turn stitch selector dial to desired stitch number.
6. Test sew: Place fabric under presser foot, lower foot, and gently press foot pedal.

CAUTION! Keep fingers away from moving needle. Always turn handwheel toward you.

Specifications

• Model: Singer CG 550 C.
• Stitches: 55 built-in stitches (utility, decorative, stretch).
• Stitch Length: Adjustable from 0 to 4 mm.
• Stitch Width: Adjustable from 0 to 5 mm.
• Speed: Up to 750 stitches per minute.
• Needle Positions: Left, center, right.
• Bobbin: Top drop-in, Class 15 transparent bobbin.
• Lighting: Built-in LED light.
• Power Source: 120V AC, 60Hz.
• Dimensions: Standard sewing machine size with free arm.

Controls and Functions

Access controls via front panel and dials. Front Panel: Power switch, Stitch selector dial, Stitch length dial, Stitch width dial, Reverse stitch button.

Additional Controls: Handwheel, Presser foot lever, Thread cutter, Bobbin winder spindle, Drop feed lever.

Stitch Selection: Turn dial to select stitch (see stitch chart). Stitch Length: Adjust for shorter/longer stitches. Stitch Width: Adjust for zigzag and decorative stitches. Reverse: Press to sew backward for reinforcement. Needle Position: Adjust with stitch width dial for left/center/right.

Stitch Selection and Settings

Select from 55 stitches for various fabrics and projects.

1. Refer to stitch chart on machine for stitch numbers and recommended uses.
2. Turn stitch selector dial to desired number.
3. Adjust stitch length: Higher number for longer stitches, lower for shorter.
4. Adjust stitch width: For zigzag and decorative stitches, set width as needed.
5. Test on scrap fabric before starting project.

Tip: Use straight stitch (stitch 1) for seams, zigzag (stitch 2-5) for finishing edges.

Threading and Bobbin Winding

Proper threading ensures smooth operation.

1. Wind bobbin: Place thread on spool pin, guide through bobbin winding tension disc, wrap thread around bobbin a few times, push bobbin winder to right, press foot pedal.
2. Insert bobbin: Open bobbin cover, drop bobbin in with thread pulling counterclockwise, pull thread through slot.
3. Thread upper thread: Follow numbered path from spool pin to needle; use automatic needle threader by pulling lever down and hooking thread through needle eye.
4. Raise bobbin thread: Hold upper thread, turn handwheel toward you until bobbin thread loops up; pull both threads under presser foot.

WARNING! Ensure machine is off when threading. Keep thread path clear of obstructions.

Maintenance and Cleaning

Unplug before cleaning. Regular maintenance ensures longevity.

1. Clean lint: Remove needle plate and bobbin case; use brush to remove lint and dust.
2. Oil machine: Apply 1-2 drops of sewing machine oil to moving parts as per manual (do not over-oil).
3. Check needle: Replace bent or dull needles regularly.
4. Wipe exterior: Use dry cloth only; no liquids or aerosols.

CAUTION! Do not spray liquids; keep machine away from moisture and extreme temperatures.

Safety Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with interference limits. Always unplug when not in use. Keep hands away from moving parts. Use correct needle and thread for fabric. Do not operate if damaged. For indoor use only. Copyright © Singer; trademarks of Singer Licensing B.V. For support, visit www.singer.com or contact customer service.

Warranty and Support

Singer limited warranty: 25 years for mechanical parts, 2 years for electrical parts. Register product online for warranty activation. For technical support, visit www.singer.com/support or call 1-800-4-SINGER. Keep receipt for proof of purchase.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Machine not running	Power/pedal	Check power connection; ensure foot pedal is plugged in; replace fuse if needed.
Thread bunching underneath	Threading/bobbin	Re-thread upper and bobbin thread; ensure bobbin inserted correctly.
Needle breaks	Needle/thread/fabric	Use correct needle for fabric; ensure needle is tight and not bent; avoid pulling fabric.
Stitches skipping	Needle/threading	Replace needle; re-thread machine; check needle size for fabric.
Uneven stitches	Tension/thread	Adjust thread tension; use same weight thread in top and bobbin.
Machine noisy	Lint/needle	Clean lint from bobbin area; check for bent needle or foreign objects.

Reset: Unplug for 5 minutes if electronic issues occur.

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