Singer Sewing Machine 221 Manual

The Singer 221, also known as the "Featherweight," is a classic portable straight-stitch sewing machine renowned for its reliability, precision, and lightweight aluminum construction. Introduced in the 1930s, it features a powerful motor, reverse stitching capability, adjustable stitch length, built-in light, and comes with a set of standard presser feet and bobbins. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Aluminum body, Rotary Hook Bobbin System, Built-in Light, Reverse Lever, Stitch Length Dial, Tension Disc Assembly, Presser Foot Lifter.

Unpacking and Setup

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

1. Remove machine from case: Lift by the handle; avoid touching needle or presser foot.
2. Connect power: Plug power cord into machine and wall outlet (110-120V AC).
3. Attach foot pedal: Connect pedal cord to machine port.
4. Install needle: Loosen needle clamp screw, insert needle flat side toward back, tighten screw.
5. Oil machine: Apply 1-2 drops of sewing machine oil to designated points (see Maintenance).

WARNING! Keep fingers away from needle when machine is plugged in. Ensure workspace is clean and dry.

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; test stitch on scrap fabric.

1. Wind bobbin: Place thread on spool pin, guide through tension disc, wind onto bobbin.
2. Insert bobbin: Open slide plate, drop bobbin into case with thread clockwise, pull thread through slot.
3. Thread upper path: Follow numbered guides from spool to needle (left to right).
4. Set stitch length: Turn dial to desired setting (2.5 mm for general sewing).
5. Test stitch: Lower presser foot, gently press pedal to sew.

CAUTION! Always turn handwheel toward you (counter-clockwise) to avoid timing issues.

Specifications

• Model: Singer 221 (Featherweight).
• Stitch Type: Straight stitch only.
• Stitch Length: Adjustable 0-4 mm.
• Speed: Up to 1,100 stitches per minute.
• Motor: 0.5 amp, 110-120V AC.
• Weight: Approx. 11 lbs (5 kg).
• Bobbin Type: Class 66 metal bobbins.
• Needle System: 15x1 (HAx1) household needles.
• Included Accessories: Bobbins, screwdriver, lint brush, oiler, standard presser feet.
• Warranty: Varies by year; typically 25-year limited warranty on motor.

Controls and Adjustments

Access controls via dials and levers on machine body. Front Panel: Stitch Length Dial, Reverse Lever, Light Switch, Handwheel.

Key Adjustments: Stitch Length (0 for darning, 4 for basting), Thread Tension (adjust dial for balanced stitches), Presser Foot Pressure (fixed on most 221 models).

Bobbin Tension: Adjust screw on bobbin case (clockwise increases, counter-clockwise decreases). Needle Position: Centered; cannot be shifted. Reverse: Hold lever for back-tacking.

Threading and Bobbin Winding

Upper Threading: Follow path from spool pin through tension discs to needle. Bobbin Winding: Disengage clutch by pushing handwheel inward.

1. Turn power off before threading.
2. Place thread spool on pin; guide through first thread guide.
3. Wind bobbin: Push handwheel in, place bobbin on winder, press pedal to wind evenly.
4. Insert bobbin: Ensure thread unwinds clockwise when pulled.
5. Pull bobbin thread up: Hold upper thread, turn handwheel to bring bobbin thread through plate.

Tip: Use quality thread (polyester or cotton) and clean lint from bobbin area regularly.

Stitching Techniques

Straight stitch only; ideal for piecing, quilting, seams.

1. Start sewing: Position fabric under needle, lower presser foot, gently press pedal.
2. Reverse: Hold reverse lever at start and end of seam to lock stitches.
3. Pivoting: Stop with needle down, lift presser foot, turn fabric, lower foot, continue.
4. Seam guides: Use lines on throat plate for consistent seam allowances.
5. Finishing: Trim threads with built-in thread cutter or scissors.

WARNING! Do not pull fabric; let feed dogs move it. Avoid sewing over pins.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Unplug before maintenance. Clean lint after each project; oil monthly with sewing machine oil.

1. Remove needle plate: Unscrew screws, lift plate to access bobbin area.
2. Clean lint: Use small brush to remove lint from feed dogs, bobbin case, hook race.
3. Oil: Apply 1-2 drops to hook race, needle bar, and other moving parts per diagram.
4. Wipe exterior: Use soft, dry cloth; avoid water or chemicals.

CAUTION! Use only sewing machine oil; never use household oils. Store in case when not in use.

Regulatory Information

UL Listed: Complies with safety standards for household sewing machines. Copyright © Singer Manufacturing Company (now Singer Sewing Company). Patents issued from 1933-1950s. For support, visit www.singer.com or contact 1-800-4-SINGER. Serial number located on bed of machine; used for dating and parts identification.

Troubleshooting

Reset: Unplug, clean and oil, re-thread completely.

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