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.
Key components: Mechanical sewing head, Stitch selection dial, Built-in needle threader, Drop feed lever, Reverse stitch lever, Bobbin winder, Free arm, Accessory storage.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Built-in Stitches | Multiple utility and decorative stitches including straight, zigzag, and stretch stitches |
| Four-Step Buttonhole | Manual buttonhole creation for consistent results |
| Stitch Length/Width Control | Adjustable dials for customizing stitch size |
| Drop Feed | Lowers feed dogs for free-motion sewing, darning, and quilting |
| Built-in Needle Threader | Assists in threading the needle eye easily |
| Reverse Stitch Lever | Secures stitches at the beginning and end of a seam |
| Free Arm | Removable accessory tray for sewing cylindrical items like sleeves and cuffs |
| Bobbin Winder | Built-in system for winding the bobbin |
| Power/Foot Control | Standard foot pedal for speed control; power switch |
| Accessory Box | Storage for included feet, needles, bobbins, and tools |
Unpack all contents and inspect for damage. Place machine on a stable, well-lit table.
WARNING! Keep fingers away from the needle area during setup and operation. Ensure the machine is unplugged when threading or changing the needle.
Plug in power, turn on switch, and practice on scrap fabric.
CAUTION! Always turn the handwheel toward you (counterclockwise) to avoid timing issues. Never force the handwheel.
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).
For straight seams, zigzag, and finishing edges.
Tip: Always test stitch settings on a scrap of your project fabric first.
Utilizing the machine's full capabilities for specific tasks.
WARNING! When dropping feed dogs, ensure the machine is stopped and the needle is in the highest position.
Unplug machine before any maintenance. Regular cleaning prevents lint buildup and ensures smooth operation.
CAUTION! Use only sewing machine oil. Do not spray cleaners or lubricants. Never submerge the machine in water.
Using the correct needle and thread is essential for good results.
| Fabric Type | Recommended Needle | Recommended Thread |
|---|---|---|
| Lightweight (Silk, Chiffon) | Size 70/10 Sharp | Fine Cotton or Polyester |
| Medium (Cotton, Linen) | Size 80/12 Universal | All-Purpose Polyester or Cotton |
| Heavy (Denim, Canvas) | Size 90/14 Denim/Jeans | Heavy Duty Polyester |
| Stretch (Jersey, Knit) | Size 75/11 Stretch or Ballpoint | Polyester 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.
| Symptom | Possible Cause | Corrective Action |
|---|---|---|
| Thread bunching underneath | Incorrect bobbin threading/tension | Re-thread bobbin and top thread completely. Check bobbin is inserted correctly. |
| Skipped stitches | Wrong/damaged needle, incorrect threading | Replace needle with correct type. Re-thread machine. Ensure needle is inserted fully. |
| Machine won't run | Not plugged in, foot control issue | Check power connections. Ensure foot control cord is firmly plugged into machine. |
| Uneven or loose stitches | Incorrect tension setting | Adjust thread tension dial. Re-test on scrap fabric. |
| Needle breaks | Wrong needle size, bent needle, pulling fabric | Use correct needle for fabric. Do not pull fabric; let feed dogs move it. Insert needle properly. |
| Unusual noise | Lint buildup, lack of oil, foreign object | Clean 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.