singer fashion mate 6160 manual

The Singer Fashion Mate 6160 is a versatile and user-friendly sewing machine designed for a wide range of sewing projects. It features 60 built-in stitches, a one-step buttonhole, automatic needle threader, top drop-in bobbin, adjustable stitch length and width, and multiple presser feet for various techniques. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Sewing machine head, Foot pedal, Power cord, Accessory box with presser feet, Bobbins, Needles, Seam ripper, Screwdriver, Spool pin caps.

Unpacking and Setup

Carefully unpack all contents and place the machine on a stable, flat surface.

1. Remove all packaging materials and protective covers from the machine.
2. Attach the foot pedal: Plug the foot pedal cord into the jack on the right side of the machine.
3. Connect the power: Plug the power cord into the machine and then into a standard 120V AC outlet.
4. Install the accessory box: Snap it into place on the free arm if it is separate.
5. Wind and insert the bobbin: Follow the diagram on the machine or manual.
6. Thread the machine: Use the automatic needle threader as instructed.

WARNING! Keep fingers away from the needle area during setup and operation. Ensure the machine is turned off when plugging in or changing accessories.

First-Time Operation

Power on the machine using the switch; familiarize yourself with the controls.

1. Select a stitch: Turn the stitch selection dial to choose a basic straight stitch (pattern 01).
2. Practice on scrap fabric: Place fabric under the presser foot, lower the foot, and gently press the foot pedal to start sewing.
3. Adjust stitch length/width: Use the control dials to modify the stitch as needed.
4. Test the reverse lever: Hold it down to sew backwards for reinforcement.
5. Experiment with different stitches and presser feet using the provided guide.

CAUTION! Always turn the handwheel toward you (counter-clockwise) to raise or lower the needle. Never force the controls.

Specifications

• Model: Singer Fashion Mate 6160.
• Stitches: 60 Built-in stitches.
• Buttonhole: One-step automatic.
• Needle Threader: Automatic.
• Bobbin System: Top drop-in, Class 15 transparent bobbin.
• Stitch Length: Adjustable up to 4mm.
• Stitch Width: Adjustable up to 5mm.
• Presser Feet: 5 included (All-Purpose, Zipper, Buttonhole, Blind Hem, Button Sewing).
• Power Supply: 120V AC, 60Hz.
• Machine Weight: Approximately 13.2 lbs (6 kg).
• Warranty: 25-year limited warranty.

Controls and Functions

Main Controls: Power switch, Stitch selection dial, Stitch length dial, Stitch width dial, Reverse stitch lever, Handwheel.

Key Functions: Automatic needle threader lever, Bobbin winder spindle and stop, Presser foot lifter, Drop feed lever (for darning/free-motion sewing).

Stitch Selection: Dial numbered patterns (01-60). Refer to stitch chart for utility (01-10), decorative (11-50), and stretch (51-60) stitches. Buttonhole: Select buttonhole stitch pattern, use buttonhole foot for automatic sizing. Tension Control: Adjust upper thread tension dial (usually set to 4 for normal fabrics).

Stitch Selection and Settings

Use the stitch selection dial to choose from 60 patterns. Each pattern has recommended settings.

1. Consult the stitch guide on the machine or manual for pattern numbers and uses.
2. For straight stitch (01): Set length to 2.5mm, width to 0mm.
3. For zigzag stitch (02): Adjust width for desired zigzag span.
4. For decorative stitches: Use a stabilizer underneath lightweight fabrics.
5. For stretch stitches (e.g., 51, 52): Use on knit fabrics to prevent popped seams.
6. Always test stitch settings on a scrap of your project fabric.

Tip: The stitch length dial also controls the buttonhole density. Lower numbers for denser stitches.

Basic Sewing Techniques

Follow these steps for common sewing tasks.

1. Seaming: Use straight stitch (01) with appropriate length. Align fabric edges, lower presser foot, and sew with a 5/8" seam allowance unless specified otherwise.
2. Finishing Edges: Use zigzag stitch (02) or an overcast stitch (06) along raw edges to prevent fraying.
3. Creating a Buttonhole:
   • Attach the buttonhole foot.
   • Select the one-step buttonhole pattern.
   • Place the button in the foot's rear gauge to automatically size the buttonhole.
   • Lower the foot and press the pedal; the machine will sew all four sides automatically.
4. Inserting a Zipper: Use the zipper foot. Baste zipper area, align zipper tape, and stitch close to the teeth using a straight stitch.
5. Blind Hem: Use the blind hem foot and stitch pattern 07. Fold fabric as instructed for an nearly invisible hem on garments.

WARNING! Always keep your fingers clear of the needle path. Use the handwheel to position the needle manually when precise placement is needed.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Unplug the machine before any maintenance. Regular cleaning ensures optimal performance.

1. Remove the needle plate: Use the screwdriver to loosen the screws and lift the plate.
2. Clean lint and threads: Use the small brush provided to clean the feed dogs, bobbin area, and hook.
3. Oil the machine: Apply one drop of sewing machine oil to the hook race and other moving parts as indicated in the manual (typically after every 8-10 hours of use).
4. Replace the needle: Change the needle after every project or 8 hours of sewing. Insert a new needle with the flat side toward the back.
5. Exterior cleaning: Wipe the machine body with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use solvents or sprays.

CAUTION! Never immerse the machine in water. Use only recommended sewing machine oil.

Regulatory Information

This sewing machine complies with relevant safety standards for household use. Copyright and trademarks are property of Singer Licensing S.à r.l. For technical support, replacement parts, or to locate an authorized service center, visit www.singer.com or contact Singer customer service at 1-800-4-SINGER.

Troubleshooting

Reset: Unplug machine for 5 minutes to reset electronic functions if experiencing erratic behavior.

Service: For repairs not resolved by troubleshooting, contact an authorized Singer service center. Do not attempt to disassemble the machine.