singer sewing machine 1120 manual

The Singer 1120 is a versatile mechanical sewing machine designed for home use, featuring a wide range of built-in stitches, a four-step buttonhole, adjustable stitch length and width, and a drop feed for free-motion sewing. It operates with a built-in motor and includes essential accessories for basic sewing tasks. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Mechanical sewing head, built-in motor, stitch selection dial, reverse stitch lever, bobbin winder, presser foot, and accessory storage compartment.

Unpacking and Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on a stable, well-lit table.

1. Remove all packaging materials and protective covers from the machine.
2. Attach the power cord to the machine and plug into a standard 120V AC outlet.
3. Install the foot controller into the front socket and place it on the floor.
4. Raise the presser foot lever and install the standard presser foot.
5. Wind and insert the bobbin following the diagram in the manual.
6. Thread the upper thread through the guides and needle as shown.

WARNING! Keep fingers away from the needle area during operation. Always unplug the machine when not in use or when performing maintenance.

First-Time Operation

Power on the machine; perform a test sew on scrap fabric.

1. Select a straight stitch: Turn the stitch selection dial to the straight stitch symbol.
2. Set stitch length: Adjust the dial to a medium setting (e.g., 2.5).
3. Thread the machine: Follow the numbered path illustrated on the machine.
4. Insert bobbin: Place bobbin in case with thread pulling counterclockwise.
5. Pull up bobbin thread: Hold upper thread, turn handwheel toward you to bring up bobbin thread.
6. Test sew: Place fabric under presser foot, lower foot, and gently press foot controller.

CAUTION! Always start with the needle in the highest position. Never pull fabric while sewing; let the feed dogs move it.

Specifications

• Type: Mechanical, Free-Arm Sewing Machine.
• Stitches: Built-in utility and decorative stitches.
• Buttonhole: 4-step manual.
• Stitch Length: Adjustable from 0 to 4 mm.
• Stitch Width: Adjustable from 0 to 5 mm.
• Max Sewing Speed: Up to 800 stitches per minute.
• Needle System: Standard domestic 15x1 (HAx1).
• Bobbin: Class 15 transparent bobbin.
• Power Source: 120V AC, 60Hz.
• Included Accessories: All-purpose foot, zipper foot, buttonhole foot, seam ripper, needles, bobbins, darning plate, screwdriver.

Controls and Settings

Main controls are located on the front and right side of the machine.

Front Panel: Stitch Selection Dial, Stitch Length Dial, Stitch Width Dial, Reverse Stitch Lever, Bobbin Winder Spindle and Stop.

Right Side: Handwheel (with inside stopper), Thread Tension Dial, Presser Foot Lever, Drop Feed Dog Lever.

Settings: Stitch Selection (dial to desired symbol), Stitch Length (higher number = longer stitch), Stitch Width (for zigzag and decorative stitches), Thread Tension (4 is normal, adjust for fabric), Presser Foot Pressure (adjust for thick/thin fabrics).

Basic Sewing

Follow these steps for general sewing projects.

1. Select the appropriate stitch and foot for your project.
2. Adjust stitch length and width as needed.
3. Place fabric under presser foot, aligning edge with desired seam guide.
4. Lower the presser foot lever.
5. Gently press the foot controller to start sewing. Guide fabric lightly.
6. To secure seams, hold the Reverse Stitch Lever at the beginning and end of a seam for a few stitches.
7. Raise the presser foot and pull fabric gently to the back to remove. Cut threads with thread cutter.

Tip: Practice on scrap fabric of the same type and layers as your project to test settings.

Stitch Selection Guide

Refer to the stitch chart on the machine or manual. Common uses:

1. Straight Stitch (Symbol: |): General seaming, topstitching. Use length 2.0-2.5 for medium weight fabrics.
2. Zigzag Stitch (Symbol: /\/): Finishing edges, appliqué, sewing on buttons. Adjust width for purpose.
3. Blind Hem Stitch (Symbol: -.-): For nearly invisible hems on garments. Use blind hem foot.
4. Stretch Stitch (Symbol: ///): For knits and stretch fabrics to prevent popped seams.
5. Decorative Stitches: Select from dial for embellishment. Use stabilizer for best results.
6. Four-Step Buttonhole: Use buttonhole foot. Follow steps 1-4 marked on dial or machine.

WARNING! Always use the correct presser foot for the selected stitch. Do not change the stitch selection dial while the machine is running.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular cleaning ensures optimal performance and longevity.

1. Unplug the machine before any maintenance.
2. Clean lint and dust: Remove the needle plate and bobbin case. Use the small brush provided to clean the feed dog and bobbin area.
3. Oil the machine: Apply 1-2 drops of sewing machine oil to points indicated in the manual (e.g., hook race) as per schedule. Wipe away excess oil.
4. Needle: Replace the needle regularly (after every project or 8 hours of sewing). Insert with flat side to the back.
5. Exterior: Wipe with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use solvents or sprays.

CAUTION! Use only sewing machine oil. Never oil the motor. Store machine covered when not in use.

Regulatory Information

This appliance complies with relevant safety standards. The machine is intended for household use only. Copyright and trademarks are property of Singer Licensing B.V. For genuine parts and accessories, visit an authorized Singer retailer. For support, visit www.singer.com or contact customer service at 1-800-4-SINGER.

Troubleshooting

Reset: Unplug machine for 5 minutes to reset electronic components (if applicable). For mechanical issues, refer to manual adjustments.

Service: For repairs not covered in manual, contact authorized Singer service center at 1-800-4-SINGER or www.singer.com.