singer sewing machine 6235 manual

The Singer 6235 is a versatile electronic sewing machine designed for home use, featuring a wide range of built-in stitches, a one-step buttonhole, automatic needle threader, adjustable stitch length and width, drop-in bobbin system, and free arm capability for sewing cuffs and sleeves. It operates on 120V AC and is suitable for a variety of fabrics. 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. Stitch Selection and Settings 8. Basic Sewing Techniques 9. Maintenance & Cleaning 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Electronic control panel, built-in stitch patterns, automatic needle threader, drop-in bobbin, free arm, accessory storage, and foot pedal.

FeatureDescription
Built-in Stitches35 stitches including utility, decorative, and stretch stitches
One-Step ButtonholeAutomatically creates buttonholes of consistent size
Automatic Needle ThreaderEasily threads the needle with a lever mechanism
Drop-in BobbinTop-loading, clear-view bobbin system for easy monitoring
Free ArmRemovable accessory tray for sewing cylindrical items
Stitch Length/Width ControlAdjustable via dials for custom stitch settings
Reverse Sewing LeverReinforces stitches at beginning and end of seams
Presser Foot Pressure DialAdjusts pressure for different fabric thicknesses
Power/Speed ControlFoot pedal controls sewing speed; also has a speed limiter
Accessory StorageBuilt-in compartment for feet, bobbins, and tools

Unpacking and Setup

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

  1. Remove machine and accessories from packaging.
  2. Attach the power cord to the machine and plug into a 120V AC outlet.
  3. Install the foot pedal and connect it to the machine.
  4. Attach the standard presser foot by lowering the presser foot lever and snapping the foot into place.
  5. Wind and insert the bobbin into the drop-in bobbin case.
  6. Thread the upper thread using the automatic needle threader.

WARNING! Keep fingers away from the needle area during setup and operation. Ensure the machine is unplugged during threading and bobbin installation.

First-Time Operation

Power on the machine; familiarize yourself with basic controls.

  1. Select a straight stitch using the stitch selection dial.
  2. Place a scrap fabric under the presser foot, lower the presser foot lever, and gently press the foot pedal to start sewing.
  3. Practice controlling speed with the foot pedal.
  4. Use the reverse lever to reinforce stitches.
  5. Experiment with adjusting stitch length and width.

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

Specifications

Controls and Functions

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

Front Panel: Stitch Selection Dial, Stitch Length Dial, Stitch Width Dial, Reverse Sewing Lever, Presser Foot Pressure Dial.

Operation: Power/Speed Control via Foot Pedal, Handwheel, Presser Foot Lever, Automatic Needle Threader Lever.

Stitch Settings: Use dials to select pattern, length (0-4), and width (0-5). Reverse lever secures seams. Pressure dial adjusts for fabric thickness (1-5).

Stitch Selection and Settings

Select from 35 stitches for various fabrics and projects.

  1. Turn the stitch selection dial to the desired pattern number (refer to stitch chart).
  2. Adjust stitch length: Higher numbers for longer stitches (basting), lower for shorter (fine fabrics).
  3. Adjust stitch width for zigzag and decorative stitches: 0 for straight stitch, up to 5mm for width.
  4. For buttonholes: Select the one-step buttonhole symbol, place fabric under foot, and the machine will complete the buttonhole automatically.

Tip: Always test stitch settings on a fabric scrap before starting your project.

Basic Sewing Techniques

Follow these steps for common sewing tasks.

  1. Straight Seam: Select straight stitch (pattern 1). Align fabric edges, lower presser foot, and sew with a consistent speed.
  2. Zigzag Stitch: Select a zigzag pattern for finishing edges or sewing stretch fabrics.
  3. Buttonhole: Use the one-step buttonhole foot. The machine will sew all four sides automatically.
  4. Zipper Installation: Attach the zipper foot. Adjust needle position as needed.
  5. Free Arm Sewing: Remove the accessory tray to access the free arm for sewing sleeves and cuffs.
  6. Reverse Stitching: Hold the reverse lever to sew backwards at the start and end of a seam for reinforcement.

WARNING! Always use the correct presser foot for the technique. Do not pull fabric while sewing; let the feed dogs move it.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Unplug the machine before any maintenance.

  1. Cleaning: Use the lint brush to remove lint and dust from the bobbin area, feed dogs, and needle plate. Wipe the exterior with a soft, dry cloth.
  2. Oiling: Refer to the manual for specific oiling points. Use only high-quality sewing machine oil. A drop or two is usually sufficient.
  3. Needle Replacement: Turn the handwheel to raise the needle to its highest position. Loosen the needle clamp screw, remove the old needle, and insert a new one with the flat side facing the back. Tighten the screw firmly.
  4. Bobbin Care: Use only Class 15 bobbins. Wind bobbins evenly to prevent thread jams.

CAUTION! Never use compressed air to clean the machine as it can force lint deeper into the mechanism. Do not oil plastic parts.

Regulatory Information

This sewing machine complies with applicable safety standards. The motor is rated for 120V AC, 60Hz. Copyright and trademarks are property of Singer Manufacturing Co. or its affiliates. For support, visit the official Singer website or contact customer service.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Machine does not runNot plugged in / Power switch offEnsure power cord is plugged in and the outlet is working. Check that the foot pedal is connected.
Thread bunching underneathIncorrect threading / Bobbin issueRe-thread the upper thread. Ensure the bobbin is inserted correctly with the thread unwinding in the right direction.
Needle breaksWrong needle type / Bent needle / Incorrect insertionUse the correct needle for the fabric. Ensure the needle is not bent and is fully inserted and tightened.
Uneven stitchesIncorrect tension / Dirty machineCheck upper and bobbin thread tension. Clean lint from the tension discs and bobbin area.
Fabric not feedingPresser foot pressure too low / Feed dogs loweredIncrease presser foot pressure. Ensure the feed dogs are in the raised position (check drop feed lever if present).
Automatic needle threader not workingNeedle not in highest position / Thread not in hookRaise the needle to its highest point using the handwheel. Ensure the thread is properly seated in the threader hook.

Reset: Unplug the machine for 60 seconds to reset the electronics if controls become unresponsive.

Service: For persistent issues, contact authorized Singer service centers.

Singer Sewing Machine 6235 Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025