Singer Sew Mate 5400 Instruction Manual

The Singer Sew Mate 5400 is a versatile mechanical sewing machine designed for home use, featuring 40 built-in stitches, a 4-step buttonhole, adjustable stitch length and width, drop-in bobbin system, built-in needle threader, free arm capability, and multiple presser feet. Powered by 120V AC, 60Hz. 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 Settings 6. Stitch Selection and Adjustment 8. Maintenance and Cleaning 9. Regulatory Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Sewing machine head, Free arm, Stitch selection dial, Stitch length/width controls, Bobbin winder, Built-in needle threader, Foot pedal, Power cord.

FeatureDescription
Built-in Stitches40 stitches including utility, decorative, and stretch
4-Step ButtonholeEasy-to-create buttonholes in four simple steps
Stitch Length ControlAdjustable from 0 to 4 mm
Stitch Width ControlAdjustable up to 5 mm for zigzag and decorative stitches
Drop-in BobbinTop-loading, clear-view bobbin system
Built-in Needle ThreaderAssists in threading the needle easily
Free ArmRemovable accessory tray for sewing cuffs and sleeves
Presser FeetIncludes All-Purpose Foot, Zipper Foot, Buttonhole Foot, Button Sewing Foot
Reverse Stitch LeverFor reinforcing stitches at beginning and end of seams
Power/Speed ControlFoot pedal with variable speed control

Unpacking and Setup

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

  1. Remove machine from packaging: Lift machine by base, not handwheel.
  2. Attach accessory tray: Slide onto free arm until it clicks into place.
  3. Connect foot pedal: Plug into machine port (usually on right side).
  4. Connect power: Plug power cord into machine, then into 120V AC outlet.
  5. Install needle: Loosen needle clamp screw, insert needle with flat side to back, tighten screw.
  6. Wind bobbin: Place bobbin on winder, thread through guide, press bobbin winder to engage.

WARNING! Keep fingers away from needle area during operation. Unplug machine when not in use or when changing needles/feet.

First-Time Operation

Plug in power, turn handwheel toward you to raise needle to highest position.

  1. Thread machine: Follow numbered guides on machine; use built-in needle threader.
  2. Insert bobbin: Drop bobbin into case with thread unwinding counterclockwise; pull thread through slot.
  3. Bring up bobbin thread: Hold needle thread, turn handwheel toward you until bobbin thread loops up.
  4. Select stitch: Turn stitch selection dial to desired pattern (e.g., straight stitch).
  5. Adjust settings: Set stitch length to 2.5 mm, width to 0 for straight stitch.
  6. Test sew: Place fabric under presser foot, lower foot, press foot pedal gently.

CAUTION! Always start with needle at highest position. Keep work area well-lit.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Main Controls: Stitch selection dial, Stitch length dial, Stitch width dial, Reverse stitch lever, Handwheel, Bobbin winder.

Stitch Selection: Turn dial to select from 40 stitches (numbered 1-40). Stitch Length: Adjust for shorter/longer stitches (0 for darning, 4 for basting). Stitch Width: Adjust for zigzag and decorative stitches (0 for straight stitch). Reverse Stitch: Hold lever down to sew in reverse for reinforcement. Tension Control: Dial on front (usually set to 4 for medium-weight fabrics).

Stitch Selection and Adjustment

Select stitch pattern via dial. Adjust length/width as needed.

  1. Straight Stitch: Dial to pattern 1, width 0, length 2.5 mm for general sewing.
  2. Zigzag Stitch: Dial to pattern 2, adjust width for seam finishing or appliqué.
  3. Decorative Stitches: Dial to patterns 3-40, experiment with length/width settings.
  4. Buttonhole: Use 4-step process with Buttonhole Foot:
    • Step 1: Right side of buttonhole (dial to setting A).
    • Step 2: Bartack at end (dial to setting B).
    • Step 3: Left side of buttonhole (dial to setting C).
    • Step 4: Bartack at beginning (dial to setting D).
  5. Stretch Stitches: Use patterns 30-35 for knit fabrics; may require stabilizer.

Tip: Always test stitch on fabric scrap before starting project.

Maintenance and Cleaning

Unplug machine before maintenance. Clean lint and dust regularly.

  1. Remove needle plate: Use screwdriver to loosen screws, lift plate.
  2. Clean feed dogs and bobbin area: Use small brush to remove lint.
  3. Oil machine: Apply 1-2 drops of sewing machine oil to moving parts as per manual (do not over-oil).
  4. Replace needle: Change needle after every 8-10 hours of sewing or if damaged.
  5. Store properly: Cover machine when not in use to prevent dust accumulation.

CAUTION! Use only sewing machine oil. Do not use household oils. Keep machine away from moisture.

Regulatory Information

UL Listed: Complies with safety standards for household sewing machines. Copyright © Singer Manufacturing Company. Trademarks owned by Singer. For support, visit www.singer.com or contact 1-800-4-SINGER.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Machine does not runPower connection/foot pedalCheck power cord is plugged in; ensure foot pedal is connected properly.
Thread bunching underneathIncorrect threading/bobbinRe-thread top and bobbin; ensure bobbin is inserted correctly.
Needle breaksWrong needle/bent needleReplace needle; ensure it is inserted fully and tightened.
Uneven stitchesTension settingsAdjust tension dial; re-thread; check needle size for fabric.
Fabric not feedingFeed dogs lowered/ presser foot pressureCheck feed dog position; adjust presser foot pressure if available.
Machine is noisyLint/dust or needs oilingClean bobbin area; apply sewing machine oil to moving parts.
Thread keeps breakingOld thread/incorrect tensionUse new, good quality thread; reduce tension setting.

Reset: Unplug machine for 5 minutes if electronic issues occur.

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

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