Singer Heavy Duty 6380 Sewing Machine Manual

The Singer Heavy Duty 6380 is a high-performance sewing machine designed for demanding projects with its powerful motor, 110 built-in stitches, automatic needle threader, top drop-in bobbin system, adjustable presser foot pressure, and heavy-duty metal frame. It handles a wide range of fabrics from delicate silks to heavy denim and leather. 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 Functions 6. Stitch Selection and Settings 8. Basic Sewing Techniques 9. Maintenance & Cleaning 10. Accessories 11. Warranty Information 12. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Heavy-duty metal frame, powerful motor, automatic needle threader, top drop-in bobbin, LED lighting, stitch selection dial, and reverse lever.

FeatureDescription
Built-in Stitches110 stitches including basic, stretch, decorative, and buttonholes
Automatic Needle ThreaderEasily threads the needle with a simple lever mechanism
Top Drop-in BobbinEasy to insert and see bobbin thread; jam-resistant
Heavy-Duty Metal FrameProvides stability and reduces vibration during high-speed sewing
Adjustable Presser Foot PressureFor handling different fabric thicknesses
Powerful MotorDelivers up to 1,100 stitches per minute
LED LightingBrightens the sewing area
Stitch Length/Width DialAdjustable for custom stitch settings
Reverse Sewing LeverFor reinforcing stitches
Free ArmFor sewing cuffs, sleeves, and other tubular items

Unpacking and Setup

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

  1. Remove machine and accessories from packaging.
  2. Attach the power cord to the machine and plug into a 120V AC outlet.
  3. Install the foot controller into the front port.
  4. Attach the standard presser foot by lowering the presser foot lever and snapping the foot into place.
  5. Wind and insert the bobbin following the illustrated guide.
  6. Thread the upper thread using the automatic needle threader.

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

First-Time Operation

Power on the machine; familiarize yourself with the controls.

  1. Power: Plug in and turn the power switch ON. The LED light will illuminate.
  2. Select Stitch: Turn the stitch selection dial to choose your desired stitch (e.g., straight stitch #1).
  3. Adjust Settings: Set stitch length and width using the dials (default is medium).
  4. Test Sew: Place fabric under the presser foot, lower the presser foot lever, and gently press the foot controller to begin sewing.
  5. Reverse: Hold the reverse lever to sew backwards for securing stitches.

CAUTION! Always start with a test scrap of fabric. Ensure the presser foot is lowered before sewing.

Specifications

Controls and Functions

Access all functions via front panel controls. Front Panel: Power Switch, Stitch Selection Dial, Stitch Length Dial, Stitch Width Dial, Reverse Lever, Presser Foot Lever.

Key Functions: Stitch Selection (dial 1-110), Stitch Length (0-4 mm), Stitch Width (0-7 mm), Reverse Sewing, Presser Foot Lifter, Handwheel, Bobbin Winder, Thread Cutter.

Settings: Adjust stitch length for basting or reinforcing; adjust width for zigzag or decorative stitches. Use the reverse lever at the beginning and end of seams. The handwheel manually raises/lowers the needle.

Stitch Selection and Settings

Select from 110 stitches for various applications.

  1. Basic Stitches (1-10): Straight, zigzag, stretch stitches.
  2. Decorative Stitches (11-80): Scallops, waves, flowers, etc.
  3. Buttonholes (81-90): One-step automatic buttonholes.
  4. Specialty Stitches (91-110): Blind hem, overcast, elastic stitches.
  5. Adjustment: For each stitch, set length (short for fine fabrics, long for basting) and width (narrow for seams, wide for decorative).

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

Basic Sewing Techniques

Mastering fundamental techniques ensures optimal results.

  1. Straight Seam: Use stitch #1. Align fabric edge with seam guide. Lower presser foot and sew.
  2. Zigzag Stitch: Use stitch #2 or #3 for finishing edges or sewing stretch fabrics.
  3. Buttonhole: Attach buttonhole foot. Select a buttonhole stitch (81-90). Place fabric and start; machine sews automatically.
  4. Blind Hem: Use stitch #11. Fold fabric as per manual guide for nearly invisible hems.
  5. Gathering: Set a long straight stitch (#1, length 4). Sew two rows and pull threads to gather.
  6. Free Arm: Remove accessory tray to access free arm for sewing sleeves and cuffs.

WARNING! Always use the correct presser foot for the technique. Do not pull fabric; let the feed dogs move it.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Unplug machine before any maintenance. Regular cleaning prevents lint buildup.

  1. Remove needle plate screws and lift off the plate.
  2. Use the small brush provided to clean lint from feed dogs and bobbin area.
  3. Wipe the exterior with a soft, dry cloth.
  4. Oil the machine as instructed in the manual (specific points indicated). Use only SINGER sewing machine oil.
  5. Replace the needle regularly (after every project or 8 hours of sewing).

CAUTION! Never use compressed air to clean; it can force lint deeper. Do not immerse machine in water.

Accessories

Included accessories for various sewing tasks.

AccessoryUse
All-Purpose FootGeneral sewing
Zipper FootInstalling zippers
Buttonhole FootCreating automatic buttonholes
Button Sewing FootAttaching buttons
Seam Ripper/Lint BrushRemoving stitches and cleaning
Spool Caps (2)For different spool types
Class 15 Bobbins (4)Extra bobbins
Needles (Assorted)SINGER System 130/705H
Foot ControllerSpeed control
Power CordConnects to outlet

Warranty Information

Singer Heavy Duty 6380 comes with a 25-year limited warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship under normal household use. Warranty does not cover damage from misuse, commercial use, unauthorized repair, or lack of maintenance. For warranty service, contact SINGER Customer Service with proof of purchase. For support, visit www.singer.com or contact 1-800-4-SINGER.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Machine does not runPower connectionEnsure power cord is plugged in and switch is ON. Check outlet.
Needle breaksIncorrect insertion/bent needleReinsert needle flat side toward back. Ensure it is pushed up fully and tightened.
Thread bunches underneathIncorrect bobbin threadingRe-thread bobbin ensuring it turns counterclockwise when pulled. Rethread top thread.
Uneven stitchesIncorrect tension/threadCheck both upper and bobbin threading. Adjust tension dial. Use good quality thread.
Fabric not feedingPresser foot pressure/feed dogsEnsure presser foot is lowered. Clean feed dogs. Adjust presser foot pressure for thicker fabrics.
Automatic needle threader not workingNeedle not in highest positionTurn handwheel toward you to raise needle to its highest position before using threader.
Machine is noisyLint buildup/lack of oilClean lint from bobbin area and feed dogs. Oil as per manual instructions.

Reset: Unplug machine for 2 minutes to reset electronic components if experiencing erratic behavior.

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

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