singer sewing machine 1304 manual

The Singer 1304 is a compact, lightweight, and easy-to-use mechanical sewing machine designed for beginners and home sewers. It features a built-in stitch selection, automatic bobbin winding, adjustable stitch length, reverse sewing, and a free arm for sewing cuffs and sleeves. Powered by a standard household outlet, it comes with essential accessories and is ideal for basic sewing, mending, and simple projects. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Free arm, built-in stitch patterns, reverse lever, stitch length dial, bobbin winder, drop-in bobbin system, built-in thread cutter, and accessory storage.

Unpacking and Setup

Remove all packaging materials and inspect contents. Place on a stable, flat surface.

1. Remove machine from box and place on table.
2. Attach foot control: Plug into port on right side of machine.
3. Connect power: Plug power cord into machine and then into a 120V AC outlet.
4. Install needle: Loosen needle clamp screw, insert needle with flat side to the back, tighten screw.
5. Attach presser foot: Raise presser foot lever, snap foot into place.

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

First-Time Operation

Plug in machine, turn on power switch, and follow these steps.

1. Wind bobbin: Place thread spool on pin, guide thread through bobbin winder tension, place bobbin on winder shaft, push shaft to right, press foot control.
2. Insert bobbin: Open bobbin cover, drop in bobbin with thread unwinding counterclockwise, pull thread through slot and under tension spring.
3. Thread upper thread: Raise presser foot, follow numbered threading path on machine, thread through needle from front to back.
4. Draw up bobbin thread: Hold upper thread, turn handwheel toward you to lower and raise needle, pull upper thread to bring bobbin thread up through needle plate.

CAUTION! Always turn power off and unplug machine before threading, changing needle, or performing maintenance.

Specifications

• Type: Mechanical Sewing Machine
• Stitches: 6 Built-in Stitches
• Stitch Length: Adjustable up to 4 mm
• Bobbin: Class 15 transparent, top-loading drop-in
• Needle: Singer 2020, size 14/90 included
• Free Arm: Yes, removable accessory tray
• Max Sewing Speed: 750 stitches per minute
• Power Supply: 120V, 60Hz, 0.7A
• Light Bulb: 15W (included)
• Weight: Approx. 11 lbs (5 kg)
• Included Accessories: All-purpose foot, buttonhole foot, zipper foot, darning plate, needle pack, bobbins, seam ripper, lint brush, screwdriver, spool pin felt

Controls and Functions

Main controls located on front and right side of machine.

Front Panel: Stitch selector dial, stitch length dial, reverse lever, handwheel, bobbin winder, thread tension dial.

Right Side: Power/light switch, foot control jack, power cord jack.

Operation: Select stitch with dial, adjust length with dial, use reverse lever to backstitch, control speed with foot pedal. Thread tension: Adjust dial (higher number for tighter tension). Presser foot pressure: Fixed for general sewing.

Threading the Machine

Correct threading is essential for proper stitch formation.

1. Raise presser foot and needle to highest position.
2. Place thread spool on spool pin.
3. Follow threading guide: Through first thread guide, down and around tension discs, up and through take-up lever, down through second thread guide, through needle bar thread guide, then through needle eye front to back.
4. Pull about 6 inches of thread toward back of machine under presser foot.

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

Basic Stitching

Machine is ready for sewing after threading and bobbin insertion.

1. Place fabric under presser foot, lower presser foot lever.
2. Gently press foot control to start sewing. Guide fabric with hands but do not pull.
3. To backstitch: Hold reverse lever down while sewing a few stitches at beginning and end of seam.
4. To change stitch: Turn stitch selector dial to desired pattern (ensure machine is stopped).
5. To adjust stitch length: Turn dial while machine is stopped (0 for no feed, 4 for longest stitch).
6. To finish: Raise needle to highest position, raise presser foot, pull fabric back and cut threads using built-in thread cutter.

WARNING! Never place fingers near moving needle. Always turn handwheel toward you only.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular cleaning ensures optimal performance and longevity.

1. Unplug machine before any maintenance.
2. Remove needle plate screws, lift off needle plate.
3. Use small brush to remove lint and dust from feed dogs, bobbin area, and hook.
4. Replace needle plate and tighten screws.
5. Oil sparingly as per manual instructions (only at designated oil points if specified).
6. Wipe exterior with soft, dry cloth.

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

Accessories Included

Standard accessories provided with Singer 1304.

Safety Information

Important safety precautions for using the sewing machine.

• Always unplug machine when not in use, during threading, when changing needle, or when cleaning.
• Keep fingers away from moving parts, especially needle area.
• Do not use bent or damaged needles.
• Use proper needle for fabric type.
• Ensure adequate lighting when operating machine.
• Keep machine on stable surface to prevent tipping.
• Do not operate if cord or foot control is damaged.
• This appliance is not intended for use by persons with reduced physical, sensory or mental capabilities.

Note: Save these instructions for future reference.

Troubleshooting

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

Service: For technical support, contact Singer at 1-800-4-SINGER or visit www.singer.com. Authorized service centers only for repairs.