Singer Sewing Machine 9217 Manual

The Singer 9217 is a versatile mechanical sewing machine designed for home use, featuring 17 built-in stitches, a 4-step buttonhole, adjustable stitch length and width, built-in needle threader, drop feed for free-motion sewing, and reverse stitching. It operates on 110-120V AC and includes essential accessories. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Mechanical sewing machine body, Foot Controller, Power Cord, Accessory Box, Instruction Manual.

Unpacking and Setup

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

1. Remove machine from packaging: Lift machine by its carrying handle.
2. Attach power cord: Plug cord into machine socket and wall outlet (110-120V).
3. Attach foot controller: Plug into machine port, place on floor.
4. Install needle: Loosen needle clamp screw, insert needle with flat side to back, tighten.
5. Install presser foot: Raise presser foot lever, snap foot into place.

WARNING! Keep fingers away from needle area during operation. Unplug machine when not in use or during maintenance.

First-Time Operation

Plug in power cord and foot controller. Turn handwheel toward you to raise needle to highest position.

1. Wind bobbin: Follow threading diagram; place thread on spool pin, wind onto bobbin.
2. Insert bobbin: Open bobbin cover, drop in bobbin with thread unwinding counterclockwise.
3. Thread upper thread: Follow numbered path on machine; use built-in needle threader.
4. Draw up bobbin thread: Hold upper thread, turn handwheel to lower and raise needle; pull loop up.
5. Select stitch: Turn stitch selector dial to desired pattern.
6. Test sew: Place fabric under presser foot, lower foot, press foot controller gently.

CAUTION! Always start with needle in highest position. Do not force handwheel.

Specifications

• Model: Singer 9217 Mechanical Sewing Machine.
• Stitches: 17 built-in stitches.
• Buttonhole: 4-step manual.
• Stitch Length: Adjustable 0-4 mm.
• Stitch Width: Adjustable 0-5 mm.
• Max Sewing Speed: 750 stitches per minute.
• Needle Positions: Left, center, right.
• Presser Feet Included: All-purpose, zipper, buttonhole, button sewing.
• Power Supply: 110-120V AC, 60Hz.
• Machine Weight: Approx. 13.2 lbs (6 kg).

Controls and Settings

Main Controls: Stitch Selector Dial, Stitch Length Dial, Stitch Width Dial, Reverse Stitch Lever, Drop Feed Dog Lever, Presser Foot Pressure Dial.

Stitch Selection: Turn dial to corresponding stitch number (1-17). Stitch Length: 0 for basting, 2-4 for normal sewing. Stitch Width: 0 for straight stitch, 2-5 for zigzag. Reverse: Hold lever down for back-tacking. Feed Dogs: Lower lever for free-motion work. Pressure: Adjust dial for lightweight to heavyweight fabrics.

Stitch Selection Guide

Use stitch selector dial to choose from 17 patterns.

1. Straight Stitch (1): For seams, topstitching; set width to 0.
2. Zigzag Stitch (2-4): For finishing edges, appliqué; adjust width as needed.
3. Blind Hem Stitch (5): For nearly invisible hems; use blind hem foot.
4. Decorative Stitches (6-17): For embellishment; use appropriate width and length.
5. Buttonhole (marked position): Follow 4-step sequence for each buttonhole.

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

Threading and Bobbin Winding

Correct threading is essential for proper stitch formation.

1. Bobbin Winding: Place thread on spool pin, guide through pre-tension, wrap around bobbin 3-4 times, push bobbin winder to right, press foot controller.
2. Upper Threading: Follow numbered path: spool pin, thread guide, tension discs, take-up lever, thread guide, needle threader.
3. Needle Threader: Lower lever, hook thread, release lever to pull thread through needle eye.
4. Drawing Bobbin Thread: Hold upper thread, turn handwheel to lower/raise needle, pull up loop.

WARNING! Ensure presser foot is raised when threading upper thread to engage tension discs.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Unplug machine before any maintenance. Regular cleaning prevents lint buildup.

1. Remove needle plate: Use screwdriver to loosen screws, lift plate.
2. Clean feed dogs and bobbin area: Use small brush to remove lint and threads.
3. Oil machine: Apply 1-2 drops of sewing machine oil to moving parts as per manual (do not over-oil).
4. Replace needle: Change needle after every project or if dull/bent.
5. Cover machine when not in use to prevent dust accumulation.

CAUTION! Use only sewing machine oil. Do not use household oils.

Regulatory Information

FCC Compliance: This device complies with Part 15 of FCC Rules. Copyright © Singer Sewing Company. All rights reserved. For support, visit www.singer.com or contact Singer Customer Service at 1-800-4-SINGER.

Troubleshooting

Reset: Unplug machine for 5 minutes if electronic issues occur (though mechanical model).

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