Singer Model 600 Manual

The Singer Model 600 is a classic sewing machine featuring a straight stitch mechanism, built-in bobbin winder, adjustable stitch length, reverse sewing capability, free arm design for cylindrical sewing, built-in light, and drop feed for darning and free-motion sewing. Powered by a standard foot pedal with variable speed control. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Sewing head with free arm, Bobbin case, Spool pins, Stitch length dial, Reverse lever, Tension dial, Presser foot, Foot pedal controller.

Feature	Description
Stitch length dial	Adjusts stitch length from 0 to 4mm
Reverse lever	Engages reverse stitching for securing seams
Tension dial	Controls upper thread tension for balanced stitches
Presser foot lever	Raises and lowers the presser foot
Bobbin winder	Winds thread onto bobbin automatically
Free arm	Removable extension for sewing sleeves and cuffs
Drop feed lever	Lowers feed dogs for darning and free-motion work
Built-in light	Illuminates sewing area
Foot pedal	Variable speed control; plugs into machine
Power switch	Turns machine power on/off

Unpacking and Setup

Unpack carefully and inspect all parts. Place on stable table.

1. Remove machine from packaging: Lift by carrying handle, not by free arm.
2. Attach foot pedal: Plug cord into machine socket.
3. Connect power: Plug machine into standard 120V outlet.
4. Install needle: Loosen needle clamp, insert needle flat side to back, tighten.
5. Attach presser foot: Lower presser foot lever, snap foot into place.

WARNING! Machine is heavy; use both hands when lifting. Ensure table is sturdy.

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; follow threading guide.

1. Wind bobbin: Place spool on pin, thread through bobbin winder, engage clutch.
2. Thread upper thread: Follow numbered path on machine from spool to needle.
3. Insert bobbin: Drop bobbin into case with thread unwinding clockwise.
4. Test stitches: Use scrap fabric; adjust tension and stitch length as needed.
5. Practice reverse: Engage reverse lever to stitch backward.

CAUTION! Keep fingers away from needle when machine is running.

Specifications

• Model: Singer 600.
• Stitch Type: Straight stitch only.
• Stitch Length: Adjustable 0–4mm.
• Speed: Variable via foot pedal, up to 1100 stitches per minute.
• Bobbin: Class 15 metal bobbin.
• Needle: Standard domestic 15x1 needles.
• Light: Built-in 15W bulb.
• Power: 120V AC, 60Hz, 0.7A.
• Weight: Approx. 22 lbs (10 kg).
• Warranty: Limited 25-year warranty on head.

Controls and Adjustments

All controls are located on the front and side of the machine.

Front Panel: Stitch length dial, Reverse lever, Tension dial, Presser foot lever, Bobbin winder disengage.

Side: Drop feed lever, Light switch, Power socket.

Adjustments: Stitch length (0 for darning, 4 for basting), Tension (higher numbers for tighter tension), Presser foot pressure (fixed on this model).

Threading the Machine

Correct threading is essential for proper operation.

1. Raise needle to highest position using handwheel.
2. Place spool on spool pin.
3. Follow threading guide: Through first thread guide, around tension discs, through take-up lever, down to needle.
4. Thread needle from front to back.
5. Pull up bobbin thread: Hold upper thread, turn handwheel toward you until needle goes down and up, pull upper thread to bring bobbin thread up.

Tip: Always thread with presser foot raised to open tension discs.

Basic Sewing Techniques

Master these techniques for optimal results.

1. Starting a seam: Position fabric under presser foot, lower foot, begin sewing slowly.
2. Reverse stitching: Hold reverse lever to sew backward 3–4 stitches at beginning and end.
3. Turning corners: Stop with needle down in fabric, lift presser foot, pivot fabric, lower foot, continue.
4. Free arm sewing: Remove extension to access free arm for sleeves and cuffs.
5. Darning: Lower feed dogs using drop feed lever, move fabric manually.
6. Changing needle: Always turn power off; ensure needle is correctly oriented.

WARNING! Never pull fabric while sewing; let feed dogs move it.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures long life.

1. Unplug machine before cleaning.
2. Remove needle plate: Use screwdriver to access bobbin area.
3. Clean lint: Use small brush to remove lint from bobbin case and feed dogs.
4. Oil machine: Apply 1–2 drops of sewing machine oil to points marked in manual.
5. Replace light bulb: Unscrew cover, replace with 15W bulb.

CAUTION! Use only sewing machine oil; never spray lubricants.

Accessories

Standard accessories included:

• All-purpose foot (already attached)
• Zipper foot
• Buttonhole foot
• Darning/embroidery foot
• Seam ripper/lint brush
• Extra bobbins (Class 15 metal)
• Needles (assorted sizes)
• Screwdriver

Note: Additional feet available from Singer dealers.

Warranty Information

Singer Model 600 carries a limited 25-year warranty on the sewing head, covering defects in materials and workmanship. Warranty does not cover damage from misuse, improper maintenance, or commercial use. For warranty service, contact authorized Singer service center with proof of purchase. For support, visit www.singer.com or call 1-800-4-SINGER.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Thread bunching underneath	Incorrect threading or tension	Rethread completely; check bobbin insertion; adjust upper tension.
Needle breaks	Wrong needle size or bent needle	Replace needle; ensure correct type (15x1); don't pull fabric.
Machine won't run	Power or pedal issue	Check power cord; ensure pedal is plugged in; test outlet.
Uneven stitches	Dirty tension discs or old thread	Clean tension area; use fresh, good-quality thread.
Bobbin doesn't wind	Clutch not engaged	Push bobbin winder to engage; ensure spool turns freely.
Fabric not feeding	Feed dogs lowered or dirty	Check drop feed lever position; clean feed dogs.

Reset: Unplug for 5 minutes if electronic issues occur (though model is mechanical).

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