Singer Sew Mate 5400 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.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Mechanical sewing machine with stitch selection dial, stitch length/width controls, built-in needle threader, drop-in bobbin system, free arm, accessory storage, and multiple presser feet.

Unpacking and Setup

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

1. Remove machine and accessories from packaging.
2. Attach power cord to machine and plug into 120V AC outlet.
3. Install foot controller into machine port and place on floor.
4. Attach presser foot: Raise presser foot lever, snap foot into place.
5. Install needle: Loosen needle clamp screw, insert needle with flat side to back, tighten screw.

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

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; follow threading guide printed on machine.

1. Wind bobbin: Place thread on spool pin, guide through bobbin winder tension, press bobbin onto winder shaft, engage winder, press foot controller.
2. Insert bobbin: Place bobbin in bobbin case with thread running counterclockwise, pull thread through slot.
3. Thread upper thread: Follow numbered guides from spool to needle, use built-in needle threader.
4. Draw up bobbin thread: Hold upper thread, turn handwheel toward you to bring bobbin thread up.
5. Select stitch: Turn stitch selection dial to desired stitch.
6. Adjust stitch length/width: Set dials for your fabric and project.

CAUTION! Always turn handwheel toward you (counterclockwise) to avoid timing issues.

Specifications

• Type: Mechanical sewing machine
• Built-in Stitches: 40 stitches
• Buttonhole: 4-step manual buttonhole
• Stitch Length: Adjustable 0-4 mm
• Stitch Width: Adjustable 0-5 mm
• Bobbin: Class 15 transparent, top-loading drop-in system
• Needle: Standard domestic needles (size 11/80 to 16/100)
• Presser Feet: 4 included (all-purpose, zipper, buttonhole, button sewing)
• Free Arm: Yes, with removable accessory tray
• Power Source: 120V AC, 60Hz
• Lighting: Built-in LED light above needle area

Controls and Settings

Main controls located on front and right side of machine.

Stitch Selection Dial: Turn to select from 40 built-in stitches (numbers correspond to stitch chart). Stitch Length Dial: Controls distance between stitches (0 for darning, 4 for basting). Stitch Width Dial: Controls width of zigzag and decorative stitches. Reverse Stitch Lever: Hold down to sew in reverse for reinforcement. Handwheel: Manual control of needle position. Power/Light Switch: Turns machine and built-in light on/off.

Presser Foot Pressure: Adjustable dial for different fabric thicknesses. Tension Control: Dial for upper thread tension (normal setting is 4-5).

Stitch Selection and Adjustment

Refer to stitch chart on machine for recommended settings.

1. Straight Stitch: Use for seams, topstitching. Set width to 0, length 2.0-2.5 mm.
2. Zigzag Stitch: Use for finishing edges, appliqué. Adjust width and length as needed.
3. Decorative Stitches: Select from dial, test on scrap fabric first.
4. Buttonhole: Follow 4-step sequence marked on machine (1-right, 2-left, 3-right, 4-left).
5. Stretch Stitches: Use for knit fabrics to prevent popped seams.

Tip: Always test stitch on scrap fabric of same type and thickness as project.

Threading and Bobbin Winding

Proper threading is essential for good stitch quality.

1. Bobbin Winding: Disengage clutch by pulling handwheel outward. Place thread on spool pin, guide through tension disk, wind bobbin until 80% full.
2. Bobbin Insertion: Place bobbin in case with thread running counterclockwise, pull thread through slot and under tension spring.
3. Upper Threading: Follow numbered guides from spool pin (1) to take-up lever (6), then to needle.
4. Needle Threader: Lower lever, hook thread around guide, pull lever back up to thread needle.
5. Drawing Up Bobbin Thread: Hold upper thread, turn handwheel toward you until needle goes down and up, pull upper thread to bring bobbin thread up.

WARNING! Ensure presser foot is raised when threading upper thread to open tension disks.

Maintenance and Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance.

1. Unplug machine before cleaning.
2. Remove needle plate screws, lift off plate to access bobbin area.
3. Use small brush to remove lint from feed dogs, bobbin case, and hook race.
4. Oil sparingly at points indicated in manual (usually bobbin case and hook race).
5. Wipe exterior with soft, dry cloth.
6. Replace needle after 8-10 hours of sewing or if damaged.

CAUTION! Do not use compressed air as it can force lint deeper into machine. Use only sewing machine oil.

Accessories Included

Regulatory Information

UL Listed: Complies with UL safety standards. FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with interference limits for residential use. Copyright © Singer Manufacturing Company. For support, visit www.singer.com or contact 1-800-4-SINGER. This product is designed for household use only.

Troubleshooting

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

Service: 1-800-4-SINGER; www.singer.com for authorized service centers.