Singer Instruction Manual for 5050C

The Singer 5050C is a versatile and user-friendly sewing machine designed for both beginners and experienced sewers. It features a wide range of stitches, an automatic needle threader, a built-in bobbin winding system, adjustable stitch length and width, and a free arm for cylindrical sewing. Powered by standard household electricity. 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. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Sewing head with built-in stitch patterns, Free arm, Bobbin system, Stitch selection dial, Tension control, Foot pedal, Power cord.

FeatureDescription
Automatic Needle ThreaderEasily threads the needle with a simple lever action
Built-in Bobbin WinderWinds bobbin directly on the machine
Stitch Selection DialSelects from multiple built-in stitch patterns
Free ArmRemovable accessory tray for sewing sleeves and cuffs
Adjustable Stitch Length/WidthCustomize stitch size for different fabrics and techniques
Reverse Stitch LeverSecures stitches at beginning and end of seams
Foot PedalControls sewing speed; variable speed control
Power SwitchTurns machine power on/off
Thread Tension DialAdjusts upper thread tension for balanced stitches
Presser Foot LeverRaises and lowers the presser foot

Unpacking and Setup

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

  1. Remove machine from packaging: Lift carefully from the carrying case.
  2. Attach power cord: Plug cord into machine and then into a standard 120V AC outlet.
  3. Install foot pedal: Connect pedal to machine port and place on floor.
  4. Attach accessory tray: Slide tray into position if removable.
  5. Install needle: Loosen needle clamp screw, insert needle with flat side to the back, tighten screw.

WARNING! Keep fingers away from needle area during setup and operation. Ensure machine is unplugged when installing needle.

First-Time Operation

Plug in machine and turn power switch on.

  1. Wind bobbin: Place empty bobbin on winder, thread through guide, engage winder, press foot pedal.
  2. Insert bobbin: Open bobbin cover, drop in bobbin with thread unwinding counterclockwise.
  3. Thread upper thread: Follow numbered guides on machine, use automatic needle threader.
  4. Select stitch: Turn dial to desired stitch pattern (e.g., straight stitch).
  5. Test sew: Place fabric under presser foot, lower foot, gently press foot pedal.

CAUTION! Always turn power off and unplug machine before threading needle or changing accessories.

Specifications

Controls and Functions

Main controls located on front and side of machine. Front Panel: Power switch, Stitch selection dial, Stitch length/width adjusters, Reverse stitch lever.

Additional Controls: Presser foot lever, Thread tension dial, Bobbin winder stop, Handwheel (manual control).

Stitch Selection: Turn dial to icon representing desired stitch. Stitch Length: Adjust for shorter/longer stitches. Stitch Width: Adjust for wider/narrower zigzag or decorative stitches. Tension: Adjust dial for balanced stitches (higher number = tighter tension). Reverse: Hold lever to sew in reverse for securing stitches.

Stitch Selection and Settings

Select from built-in stitches for various sewing tasks.

  1. Straight Stitch: For seams, topstitching; adjust length as needed.
  2. Zigzag Stitch: For finishing edges, appliqué; adjust width and length.
  3. Blind Hem Stitch: For nearly invisible hems; use blind hem foot.
  4. Decorative Stitches: For embellishment; select pattern on dial.
  5. Buttonhole Stitch: One-step automatic buttonhole; use buttonhole foot.

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

Basic Sewing Techniques

Follow these steps for common sewing tasks.

  1. Seam Sewing: Align fabric edges, lower presser foot, sew forward, reverse at end.
  2. Edge Finishing: Use zigzag stitch along raw edge to prevent fraying.
  3. Hemming: Fold hem, press, use blind hem stitch or straight stitch.
  4. Buttonhole: Mark button placement, attach buttonhole foot, machine creates buttonhole automatically.
  5. Zipper Insertion: Use zipper foot for precise stitching next to zipper teeth.

WARNING! Keep fingers away from moving needle. Always use appropriate presser foot for technique.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Unplug machine before cleaning. Remove lint and dust regularly.

  1. Cleaning: Use small brush to remove lint from bobbin area and feed dogs.
  2. Oiling: Refer to manual for oiling points; use only sewing machine oil.
  3. Needle Replacement: Replace bent or dull needles promptly.
  4. Storage: Cover machine when not in use to prevent dust accumulation.

CAUTION! Do not use compressed air as it can force lint deeper into machine. Never oil without unplugging.

Regulatory Information

FCC Compliance: This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Copyright © Singer Manufacturing Company. All trademarks are property of Singer. For support, visit www.singer.com or contact customer service at 1-800-4-SINGER.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Machine does not runPower connectionEnsure machine is plugged in and power switch is on.
Thread bunching underneathIncorrect threading/bobbinRe-thread top and bobbin; ensure bobbin inserted correctly.
Needle breaksBent needle/wrong sizeReplace needle; ensure it is inserted fully and tightened.
Uneven stitchesTension settingsAdjust thread tension; re-thread completely.
Machine skips stitchesDull needle/wrong needle typeReplace needle with correct type for fabric.
Bobbin does not windBobbin not engaged on winderEnsure bobbin is properly placed on winder spindle.

Reset: Turn power off and unplug for 60 seconds if electronic issues occur.

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

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