Singer Sewing Machine 44S Heavy Duty Manual

The Singer 44S Heavy Duty sewing machine is a robust mechanical sewing machine designed for demanding projects. It features a powerful motor, all-metal frame, 110 built-in stitches, automatic needle threader, adjustable presser foot pressure, top drop-in bobbin, and a heavy-duty metal frame for stability. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Unpacking and Setup 3. First-Time Operation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Basic Sewing Operations 7. Stitch Selection and Adjustments 8. Maintenance and Cleaning 9. Accessories 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Heavy-duty metal frame, built-in stitch panel, automatic needle threader, top drop-in bobbin system, adjustable presser foot, free arm, accessory storage.

FeatureDescription
MotorHigh-speed, powerful motor for heavy fabrics
Stitches110 built-in stitches including utility, decorative, and stretch
Needle ThreaderBuilt-in automatic needle threader
Bobbin SystemTop drop-in, jam-resistant bobbin
Presser Foot PressureAdjustable for different fabric thicknesses
Stitch Length/WidthAdjustable via dial controls
Free ArmRemovable flatbed for sewing cuffs and sleeves
LED LightBright LED work area illumination
Speed ControlSlider for variable sewing speed
Reverse StitchButton for reinforcing stitches

Unpacking and Setup

Unpack and inspect all contents. Place on a stable, level surface.

  1. Remove machine from box: Lift by the carrying handle, not by the free arm.
  2. Attach power cord: Plug into machine, then into a 120V AC outlet.
  3. Install foot controller: Connect to machine port, place on floor.
  4. Attach accessory tray: Snap into place on free arm (if included).
  5. Wind and insert bobbin: Follow bobbin winding instructions.

WARNING! Machine is heavy; use caution when lifting. Ensure work area is well-lit and free of obstructions.

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; thread needle and bobbin.

  1. Raise presser foot and needle to highest position using handwheel.
  2. Thread upper thread: Follow numbered guides to automatic needle threader.
  3. Insert bobbin: Place bobbin in case with thread unwinding counterclockwise.
  4. Pull up bobbin thread: Hold upper thread, turn handwheel to bring bobbin thread up.
  5. Select straight stitch: Set stitch selector to "0" position for basic sewing.
  6. Test sew on scrap fabric: Adjust tension and stitch length as needed.

CAUTION! Keep fingers away from needle during operation. Always turn power off when threading or changing accessories.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Access controls via front panel. Stitch Selector Dial: Choose stitch pattern (0-110). Stitch Length Dial: Adjust from 0-4 mm. Stitch Width Dial: Adjust from 0-7 mm (for zigzag and decorative stitches). Reverse Stitch Button: Hold to sew backwards. Speed Control Slider: Adjust maximum sewing speed. Presser Foot Pressure Dial: Adjust for fabric thickness (1-5).

LED Light: Illuminates work area; controlled by power switch.

Thread Tension Dial: Adjust upper thread tension (0-9). Bobbin Winder: Located on top of machine for winding bobbins.

Basic Sewing Operations

Straight Stitch: Select stitch "0", adjust length. Zigzag Stitch: Select appropriate zigzag pattern, adjust width and length. Buttonhole: Use automatic 4-step buttonhole (stitch #36). Reverse Stitching: Press and hold reverse button at beginning and end of seams.

  1. Position fabric under presser foot, lower presser foot lever.
  2. Gently press foot controller to start sewing.
  3. Guide fabric gently; do not pull or push.
  4. To finish, press reverse button, then raise needle and presser foot.

Tip: Always test stitch settings on a scrap of your project fabric first.

Stitch Selection and Adjustments

Supports utility, decorative, and stretch stitches.

  1. Select stitch: Turn dial to desired stitch number (refer to stitch chart).
  2. Adjust length: For straight stitches, 2.5 mm is standard. For satin stitches, use shorter length.
  3. Adjust width: For zigzag and decorative stitches, 3-5 mm is typical.
  4. Adjust tension: Start at 4; increase for lighter fabrics, decrease for heavier.
  5. Change presser foot: Snap on appropriate foot for selected stitch.
  6. Test sew: Always test on fabric scrap to confirm settings.

WARNING! Do not change stitch selection while needle is in fabric. Always raise needle to highest position first.

Maintenance and Cleaning

Unplug machine before cleaning. Remove needle plate to access bobbin area.

  1. Clean lint: Use small brush to remove lint from bobbin case and feed dogs.
  2. Oil machine: Apply 1-2 drops of Singer sewing machine oil to designated points (see diagram) every 8-10 hours of use.
  3. Wipe exterior: Use soft, dry cloth. Do not use solvents or sprays.
  4. Needle replacement: Replace needle regularly (every 8-16 hours of sewing).

CAUTION! Use only Singer recommended oil. Do not over-oil. Keep machine covered when not in use.

Accessories

Included accessories: All-purpose foot, zipper foot, buttonhole foot, button sewing foot, seam ripper/lint brush, needles, bobbins, screwdriver, auxiliary spool pin, spool pin felt, darning plate, instruction manual.

Optional Accessories: Walking foot, quilting guide, edge/quilting foot, blind hem foot, gathering foot.

Warranty Information

Singer 44S comes with a 25-year limited warranty covering mechanical parts. Electrical components are covered for 2 years. Labor is covered for 1 year. Warranty is valid only for original purchaser with proof of purchase. For warranty service, contact authorized Singer service center. For support, visit www.singer.com or contact 1-800-4-SINGER.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Machine does not runPower connection/foot controllerCheck power cord connections; ensure foot controller is plugged in; check circuit breaker.
Thread bunching underneathIncorrect threading/bobbinRe-thread upper thread and bobbin; ensure bobbin is inserted correctly.
Needle breaksWrong needle/bent needleUse correct needle type/size; ensure needle is straight and inserted fully.
Uneven stitchesTension/thread issuesAdjust thread tension; use same weight thread in needle and bobbin.
Fabric not feedingPresser foot pressure/feed dogsIncrease presser foot pressure; clean feed dogs; ensure feed dogs are up.
Machine is noisyLint/lack of oilClean lint from bobbin area; oil machine at designated points.

Reset: Unplug machine for 5 minutes to reset electronic components.

Service: 1-800-4-SINGER; www.singer.com

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