singer sewing machine 5525 manual

The Singer 5525 is a versatile heavy-duty sewing machine designed for home use, featuring a powerful motor, 25 built-in stitches, one-step buttonhole, automatic needle threader, adjustable stitch length and width, drop-in bobbin system, built-in free arm, and multiple presser feet. It operates on 120V AC, 60Hz. 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. Stitch Selection and Applications 7. Threading and Bobbin Winding 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Heavy-duty metal frame, Stitch selection dial, Stitch length/width controls, Reverse stitch lever, Bobbin winder, Automatic needle threader, Free arm, Accessory storage.

FeatureDescription
Built-in Stitches25 stitches including straight, zigzag, stretch, and decorative
One-Step ButtonholeAutomatically creates buttonholes of consistent size
Automatic Needle ThreaderEasily threads needle with a lever
Drop-in BobbinTop-loading, clear-view bobbin system
Free ArmRemovable accessory tray for sewing cuffs and sleeves
Stitch Length/Width ControlAdjustable for each stitch pattern
Presser FeetIncludes all-purpose, zipper, buttonhole, and button sewing feet
Power/Speed ControlFoot pedal with variable speed control
LightBuilt-in LED light for work area
Reverse StitchLever for reinforcing stitches at beginning and end

Unpacking and Setup

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

  1. Remove machine from box: Lift by the carrying handle, not by the free arm.
  2. Attach power cord: Plug into machine and then into a 120V AC outlet.
  3. Install foot pedal: Connect to machine port and place on floor.
  4. Attach accessory tray: Slide onto free arm until it clicks into place.
  5. Insert needle: Loosen needle clamp screw, insert needle flat side to back, tighten screw.

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

First-Time Operation

Power on machine using power switch; LED light will illuminate.

  1. Wind bobbin: Place thread on spool pin, guide through bobbin winder tension, place bobbin on winder shaft, push to engage, press foot pedal.
  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, use automatic needle threader.
  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.
  5. Select stitch: Turn stitch selection dial to desired pattern.
  6. Test sew: Place fabric under presser foot, lower presser foot lever, gently press foot pedal.

CAUTION! Keep fingers away from needle while machine is running. Always turn power off when threading or changing needle.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Access controls via front panel and dials.

Front Panel: Power switch, Stitch selection dial, Stitch length control, Stitch width control, Reverse stitch lever, Bobbin winder stop, Handwheel.

Stitch Selection: Turn dial to select from 25 stitches (straight, zigzag, blind hem, stretch, decorative). Stitch Length: Adjusts from 0-4mm (0 for darning). Stitch Width: Adjusts from 0-5mm for zigzag and decorative stitches. Reverse Stitch: Hold lever to sew in reverse for reinforcement. Tension Control: Dial for upper thread tension (default 4).

Stitch Selection and Applications

Select stitch based on fabric and project type.

  1. Straight Stitch (1-4): For seaming, topstitching, basting. Adjust length for fabric weight.
  2. Zigzag Stitch (5-8): For finishing edges, appliqué, stretch fabrics. Adjust width for effect.
  3. Blind Hem Stitch (9): For nearly invisible hems on garments.
  4. Stretch Stitches (10-15): For knits and elastic fabrics to prevent popped seams.
  5. Decorative Stitches (16-25): For embellishment on home decor and garments.
  6. Buttonhole (B): One-step automatic; place button in foot to set size.

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

Threading and Bobbin Winding

Proper threading is essential for smooth operation.

  1. Upper Threading: Raise presser foot, follow numbered path from spool pin to needle. Use automatic needle threader by pushing lever down and hooking thread.
  2. Bobbin Winding: Place spool on pin, thread through guide, wrap around bobbin winder tension disk. Place bobbin on shaft, push right. Press foot pedal until bobbin is full and stops automatically.
  3. Inserting Bobbin: Open cover, drop in bobbin so thread unwinds counterclockwise. Pull thread through slot and under tension spring. Close cover.
  4. Drawing Up Bobbin Thread: Hold upper thread, turn handwheel toward you to lower and raise needle. Pull upper thread to bring bobbin loop up. Pull both threads under presser foot to back.

WARNING! Ensure presser foot is raised when threading to open tension disks. Always use same thread type in bobbin and needle.

Care & Maintenance

Unplug machine before cleaning. Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance.

  1. Cleaning: Remove needle plate screws, lift plate. Use small brush to remove lint from feed dogs and bobbin area. Wipe with dry cloth.
  2. Oiling: Apply one drop of sewing machine oil to hook race and bobbin case after every 8 hours of use. Wipe excess oil.
  3. Needle Replacement: Replace needle after every project or if dull/bent. Insert with flat side to back.
  4. Storage: Cover machine when not in use to prevent dust accumulation.

CAUTION! Do not use compressed air as it can force lint deeper. Use only Singer-recommended oil.

Regulatory Information

UL Listed: Complies with safety standards. Copyright © Singer Manufacturing Company. Trademarks of Singer. For support, visit www.singer.com or contact 1-800-4-SINGER.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Thread bunching underneathIncorrect threading/bobbinRe-thread upper and bobbin thread; ensure bobbin inserted correctly.
Needle breaksWrong needle/bent needleReplace needle; ensure it is inserted fully and straight.
Machine skips stitchesDull needle/wrong needle typeReplace needle with correct type for fabric (universal, ballpoint, denim).
Uneven stitchesIncorrect tensionAdjust tension dial; re-thread; clean tension disks.
Machine won't runPower/thread jamCheck power connection; remove fabric and cut threads to clear jam.
Noisy operationLint/oil neededClean and oil machine as per maintenance section.
Buttonhole not formingImproper foot/threadingUse buttonhole foot; ensure proper threading and tension.

Reset: Unplug machine for 60 seconds to reset electronic components if applicable.

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

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