Singer Sewing Machine 185K Instruction Manual

The Singer 185K is a classic mechanical sewing machine designed for home use, featuring a built-in stitch selection dial, adjustable stitch length and width, reverse sewing function, drop feed for free-motion sewing, built-in buttonhole stitch, and a variety of presser feet. It operates with a standard domestic needle system and uses Class 15 bobbins. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Mechanical sewing head, Stitch selection dial, Bobbin winder, Reverse lever, Stitch length/width controls, Presser foot lever, Handwheel, Built-in light.

Unpacking and Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable table.

1. Remove machine from packaging: Lift by carrying handle, not by head.
2. Attach foot controller: Plug into machine port and electrical outlet.
3. Insert needle: Loosen needle clamp screw, insert needle with flat side to back, tighten.
4. Wind bobbin: Place empty bobbin on winder, thread through tension disc, engage winder.
5. Insert bobbin: Drop bobbin into case with thread unwinding counterclockwise.

WARNING! Machine is heavy; lift with care. Ensure power is off during setup.

First-Time Operation

Plug in power, turn on switch, test functions.

1. Upper threading: Follow numbered guides from spool to needle.
2. Draw up bobbin thread: Hold upper thread, turn handwheel toward you to bring up bobbin thread.
3. Test stitch: Place fabric under presser foot, lower foot, press foot controller gently.
4. Adjust tension: Test on scrap fabric; balance upper and bobbin tension.
5. Practice basic stitches: Start with straight stitch, then zigzag.

CAUTION! Keep fingers away from needle while sewing. Always turn handwheel toward you.

Specifications

• Type: Mechanical, zigzag sewing machine.
• Stitches: Built-in selection including straight, zigzag, blind hem, stretch, decorative.
• Stitch Length: 0-4 mm adjustable.
• Stitch Width: 0-5 mm adjustable.
• Buttonhole: 4-step manual.
• Needle System: HAx1 (domestic 15x1).
• Bobbin: Class 15 transparent.
• Max Sewing Speed: Approx. 800 stitches per minute.
• Power Supply: 120V AC, 60Hz, 0.7A.
• Dimensions: Approx. 15.5" W x 7" H x 6.5" D.
• Weight: Approx. 15 lbs.

Controls and Functions

Main controls: Stitch selection dial, Stitch length dial, Stitch width dial, Reverse lever, Handwheel, Power/light switch.

Stitch Selection: Turn dial to symbol for desired stitch (straight, zigzag, blind hem, etc.). Stitch Length: Higher number = longer stitch. Stitch Width: Higher number = wider zigzag. Reverse: Hold lever down to sew backwards. Presser Foot Pressure: Adjust screw at top of machine (higher for thick fabrics). Feed Dog Position: Lower with lever for darning or free-motion.

Threading the Machine

Upper threading path: Spool pin > thread guides > tension discs > take-up lever > needle.

1. Raise presser foot and needle to highest position.
2. Place thread spool on pin.
3. Follow numbered guides on machine head.
4. Thread through tension discs (between metal plates).
5. Pass thread through take-up lever from right to left.
6. Thread through remaining guides down to needle.
7. Thread needle from front to back.

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

Stitch Selection and Adjustment

Supports various stitches for different fabrics and techniques.

1. Straight stitch: Set dial to straight line symbol; adjust length as needed.
2. Zigzag stitch: Set dial to zigzag symbol; adjust width and length.
3. Blind hem: Use blind hem foot; set dial to blind hem symbol.
4. Buttonhole: Use buttonhole foot; follow 4-step sequence (1-right, 2-left, 3-right, 4-left).
5. Decorative stitches: Select appropriate symbol; test on scrap fabric first.
6. Tension adjustment: Balance upper and bobbin tension for even stitches.

WARNING! Do not change stitch selection while needle is in fabric. Always test settings on scrap material.

Maintenance and Cleaning

Unplug before maintenance. Regular cleaning prevents lint buildup.

1. Remove needle plate: Use screwdriver to remove 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 indicated in diagram.
4. Replace needle regularly: Dull or bent needles cause skipped stitches.
5. Check belt tension: Ensure motor belt is snug but not overly tight.

CAUTION! Use only sewing machine oil. Do not use household oils. Keep machine covered when not in use.

Regulatory Information

UL Listed: Complies with UL safety standards for household sewing machines. Copyright © Singer Manufacturing Company. Trademarks of Singer Limited. For support, visit www.singer.com or contact 1-800-4-SINGER. Made for 120V AC, 60Hz operation.

Troubleshooting

Reset: Unplug for 5 minutes if electronic issues occur (though mechanical, some models have light circuits).

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