singer sewing machine 6105 manual

The Singer 6105 is a versatile and reliable mechanical sewing machine designed for home use. It features a range of built-in stitches, a four-step buttonhole, adjustable stitch length and width, a drop feed for free-motion sewing, and a built-in needle threader. Powered by a standard household outlet, it is suitable for a wide variety of sewing projects from garment construction to repairs. 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 Functions 6. Basic Stitching 7. Advanced Functions 8. Maintenance & Cleaning 9. Needle & Thread Guide 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Mechanical sewing head, Stitch selection dial, Built-in needle threader, Drop feed lever, Reverse stitch lever, Bobbin winder, Free arm, Accessory storage.

FeatureDescription
Built-in StitchesMultiple utility and decorative stitches including straight, zigzag, and stretch stitches
Four-Step ButtonholeManual buttonhole creation for consistent results
Stitch Length/Width ControlAdjustable dials for customizing stitch size
Drop FeedLowers feed dogs for free-motion sewing, darning, and quilting
Built-in Needle ThreaderAssists in threading the needle eye easily
Reverse Stitch LeverSecures stitches at the beginning and end of a seam
Free ArmRemovable accessory tray for sewing cylindrical items like sleeves and cuffs
Bobbin WinderBuilt-in system for winding the bobbin
Power/Foot ControlStandard foot pedal for speed control; power switch
Accessory BoxStorage for included feet, needles, bobbins, and tools

Unpacking and Setup

Unpack all contents and inspect for damage. Place machine on a stable, well-lit table.

  1. Remove machine from box: Lift by the carrying handle, not the free arm.
  2. Attach power cord: Plug the foot control into the machine, then plug the power cord into the machine and a 120V AC outlet.
  3. Install needle: Use the included screwdriver to loosen the needle clamp screw, insert needle with flat side to the back, tighten screw.
  4. Wind and insert bobbin: Follow bobbin winding instructions; place bobbin in case with thread running counterclockwise.
  5. Thread the machine: Follow the numbered threading path on the machine, using the built-in needle threader for the final step.

WARNING! Keep fingers away from the needle area during setup and operation. Ensure the machine is unplugged when threading or changing the needle.

First-Time Operation

Plug in power, turn on switch, and practice on scrap fabric.

  1. Select a stitch: Turn the stitch selection dial to the straight stitch symbol.
  2. Set stitch length: Adjust the stitch length dial to a medium setting (e.g., 2.5).
  3. Position fabric: Lower the presser foot lever.
  4. Start sewing: Gently press the foot control. Use the reverse lever to backstitch at the start and end.
  5. Experiment: Try different stitches and settings on scrap fabric to become familiar with the machine.

CAUTION! Always turn the handwheel toward you (counterclockwise) to avoid timing issues. Never force the handwheel.

Specifications

Controls and Functions

Access all settings via dials and levers on the front and side of the machine.

Main Controls: Stitch Selection Dial, Stitch Length Dial, Stitch Width Dial, Reverse Stitch Lever, Drop Feed Lever, Handwheel, Bobbin Winder Spindle/Stop, Presser Foot Lifter, Thread Tension Dial.

Stitch Guide: Symbols on the stitch dial correspond to stitch patterns (straight, zigzag, blind hem, stretch stitches). Tension: Adjust dial for balanced stitches (usually 4-5 for general sewing). Presser Feet: Snap-on system for quick changes; ensure correct foot for the stitch (e.g., zigzag foot for zigzag stitching).

Basic Stitching

For straight seams, zigzag, and finishing edges.

  1. Straight Stitch: Select straight stitch symbol. Set length. Guide fabric under presser foot.
  2. Zigzag Stitch: Select zigzag symbol. Set width and length. Used for finishing edges, appliqué, and stretch fabrics.
  3. Reverse Stitching: Hold down the reverse lever while sewing to reinforce seams.
  4. Finishing: Trim threads using the built-in thread cutter or scissors.

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

Advanced Functions

Utilizing the machine's full capabilities for specific tasks.

  1. Four-Step Buttonhole:
    • Step 1: Zigzag right side. Mark buttonhole length on fabric.
    • Step 2: Bar tack at end.
    • Step 3: Zigzag left side.
    • Step 4: Bar tack at start. Use the buttonhole foot for guidance.
  2. Free-Motion Sewing/Darning: Lower the feed dogs using the drop feed lever. Attach the darning/embroidery foot. Move fabric manually to create designs or mend holes.
  3. Blind Hem Stitch: Use the blind hem stitch setting and foot. Fold fabric as instructed in the manual for nearly invisible hems.
  4. Stretch Stitches: Use the designated stretch stitches (like a narrow zigzag or triple straight stitch) for sewing knits without popped seams.

WARNING! When dropping feed dogs, ensure the machine is stopped and the needle is in the highest position.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Unplug machine before any maintenance. Regular cleaning prevents lint buildup and ensures smooth operation.

  1. Remove needle plate: Use screwdriver to remove screws, lift off plate.
  2. Clean feed dogs and bobbin area: Use the small lint brush to remove lint and thread bits.
  3. Oil the machine: Apply 1-2 drops of high-quality sewing machine oil to points indicated in the manual (e.g., hook race). Wipe away excess.
  4. Exterior: Wipe with a soft, dry cloth.

CAUTION! Use only sewing machine oil. Do not spray cleaners or lubricants. Never submerge the machine in water.

Needle & Thread Guide

Using the correct needle and thread is essential for good results.

Fabric TypeRecommended NeedleRecommended Thread
Lightweight (Silk, Chiffon)Size 70/10 SharpFine Cotton or Polyester
Medium (Cotton, Linen)Size 80/12 UniversalAll-Purpose Polyester or Cotton
Heavy (Denim, Canvas)Size 90/14 Denim/JeansHeavy Duty Polyester
Stretch (Jersey, Knit)Size 75/11 Stretch or BallpointPolyester or Woolly Nylon

Needle Change: Replace needle after every 8-10 hours of sewing or with each new project. A dull or bent needle causes skipped stitches and fabric damage.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Thread bunching underneathIncorrect bobbin threading/tensionRe-thread bobbin and top thread completely. Check bobbin is inserted correctly.
Skipped stitchesWrong/damaged needle, incorrect threadingReplace needle with correct type. Re-thread machine. Ensure needle is inserted fully.
Machine won't runNot plugged in, foot control issueCheck power connections. Ensure foot control cord is firmly plugged into machine.
Uneven or loose stitchesIncorrect tension settingAdjust thread tension dial. Re-test on scrap fabric.
Needle breaksWrong needle size, bent needle, pulling fabricUse correct needle for fabric. Do not pull fabric; let feed dogs move it. Insert needle properly.
Unusual noiseLint buildup, lack of oil, foreign objectClean and oil machine as per manual. Check for broken needle pieces or thread tangled in hook.

Reset: For persistent issues, unplug machine for 5 minutes, then re-plug and restart.

Service: For complex mechanical issues, contact an authorized Singer service center. Visit www.singer.com for support.

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