The Singer 2502C is a versatile and user-friendly mechanical sewing machine designed for beginners and intermediate sewers. It features 10 built-in stitches, a 4-step buttonhole, adjustable stitch length and width, a built-in free arm, and a drop feed for free-motion sewing. This manual provides essential information for setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of your Singer 2502C sewing machine.
Key components: Main body with free arm, Foot Control, Power Cord, Accessory Box (including presser feet, bobbins, needles, seam ripper, cleaning brush, screwdriver), and Instruction Manual.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Built-in Stitches | 10 stitches including straight, zigzag, blind hem, and stretch stitches |
| Buttonhole | 4-step, easy-to-follow buttonhole |
| Stitch Length Control | Adjustable for different fabric types |
| Stitch Width Control | Adjustable for zigzag and decorative stitches |
| Free Arm | Built-in for sewing cuffs, sleeves, and other tubular items |
| Drop Feed | Lever to lower feed dogs for free-motion sewing or darning |
| Reverse Stitch Lever | For reinforcing seams at beginning and end |
| Bobbin Winding System | Built-in, top-loading bobbin |
| Presser Feet | Includes All-Purpose Foot, Buttonhole Foot, Zipper Foot |
| Power/Foot Control | Variable speed control via foot pedal |
Carefully unpack all components. Place machine on a stable, well-lit table.
WARNING! Keep hands away from the needle area during setup and operation. Ensure the machine is on a stable surface to prevent tipping.
Before sewing your first stitch, complete these setup steps.
CAUTION! Always turn the handwheel toward you (counterclockwise) only. Never force the controls.
Main Controls: Stitch Selector Dial, Stitch Length Dial, Stitch Width Dial, Reverse Stitch Lever, Handwheel, Presser Foot Lever, Drop Feed Lever.
Stitch Selector Dial: Turn to choose from 10 stitch patterns (icons shown on dial). Stitch Length Dial: Controls distance between stitches (0 for darning, 4 for basting). Stitch Width Dial: Adjusts side-to-side width of zigzag and decorative stitches. Reverse Stitch Lever: Hold down to sew in reverse for seam reinforcement. Handwheel: Manually raises/lowers needle. Turn toward you only. Presser Foot Lever: Raises and lowers the presser foot. Drop Feed Lever: Lowers feed dogs for darning, free-motion quilting, or button sewing.
Correct threading is essential for proper stitch formation.
Tip: Ensure presser foot is raised when threading to allow thread to seat properly in the tension discs.
Select stitches for different sewing tasks.
WARNING! Always select the stitch with the machine stopped. Ensure the needle is not in the fabric when turning dials.
Unplug machine before any maintenance. Regular cleaning prevents lint buildup.
CAUTION! Do not use compressed air as it can force lint deeper. Never use household oils or lubricants.
Always disconnect power plug from outlet when making adjustments, changing needles, or cleaning. Keep fingers away from moving parts, especially the needle. Do not use bent or damaged needles. Do not sew over pins. This product is for household use only.
| Symptom | Possible Cause | Corrective Action |
|---|---|---|
| Thread bunching underneath | Incorrect bobbin threading | Re-thread bobbin ensuring correct direction. Rethread top thread. |
| Needle breaks | Bent needle, incorrect insertion, fabric pulled | Replace needle. Ensure flat side faces back. Do not pull fabric. |
| Skips stitches | Blunt/bent needle, wrong needle type, incorrect threading | Replace with new needle of correct type (e.g., ballpoint for knits). Re-thread. |
| Machine does not run | Not plugged in, foot control unplugged | Check power cord connections at machine and wall. Ensure foot control is connected. |
| Uneven feed | Presser foot pressure (not adjustable on this model), dirty feed dogs | Clean feed dogs. Ensure presser foot is down when sewing. |
| Poor buttonhole | Stitch width/length settings, stabilizer missing | Use stabilizer behind fabric. Practice on scrap. Follow 4 steps precisely. |
Reset: Unplug machine for 60 seconds to reset internal electronics if motor behaves erratically.
Service: For technical support, contact Singer Customer Service at 1-800-4-SINGER or visit www.singer.com.