Singer Sewing Machine Manuals M3220

The Singer M3220 is a versatile mechanical sewing machine designed for home use, featuring 32 built-in stitches, a 4-step buttonhole, adjustable stitch length and width, built-in needle threader, top drop-in bobbin system, free arm capability, and multiple presser feet. It operates on 110-120V AC and is suitable for a wide range 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 Settings 6. Stitch Selection and Applications 7. Threading and Bobbin Winding 9. Maintenance & Cleaning 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Main body with free arm, stitch selection dial, built-in needle threader, top drop-in bobbin, accessory compartment, foot pedal, and power cord.

FeatureDescription
Built-in Stitches32 stitches including straight, zigzag, stretch, and decorative
Buttonhole4-step buttonhole for consistent results
Stitch Length/WidthAdjustable dials for customization
Built-in Needle ThreaderEasily threads the needle
Top Drop-in BobbinEasy bobbin insertion and viewing window
Free ArmRemovable accessory tray for sewing cuffs and sleeves
Presser FeetIncludes all-purpose, zipper, buttonhole, and button sewing feet
Stitch Selection DialSelect stitches with a simple turn
Reverse Stitch LeverReinforce seams at beginning and end
Power/Speed ControlFoot pedal controls sewing speed

Unpacking and Setup

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

  1. Remove machine and accessories from packaging.
  2. Attach power cord to machine and plug into 110-120V outlet.
  3. Install foot pedal and connect to machine.
  4. Remove accessory tray to access free arm.
  5. Insert needle securely with flat side to the back.

WARNING! Keep fingers away from needle area during operation. Ensure machine is unplugged during setup.

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; follow threading guide.

  1. Thread upper thread: Follow numbered path on machine; use built-in threader.
  2. Wind bobbin: Place spool on pin, thread through bobbin winder tension, press pedal.
  3. Insert bobbin: Drop bobbin into case with thread clockwise; pull thread under tension spring.
  4. Select stitch: Turn dial to desired stitch number.
  5. Test sew on scrap fabric to adjust tension and stitch settings.

CAUTION! Always start with needle at highest position. Keep hands clear of moving parts.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Main controls located on front and side of machine.

Stitch Selection Dial: Turn to select stitch pattern (1-32). Stitch Length Dial: Adjust from 0 to 4 (0 for buttonhole). Stitch Width Dial: Adjust from 0 to 5mm. Reverse Stitch Lever: Hold down to sew in reverse. Handwheel: Manually raise/lower needle. Tension Dial: Adjust upper thread tension (3-5 for normal sewing).

Accessory compartment stores presser feet, bobbins, needles, seam ripper, and screwdriver.

Stitch Selection and Applications

Refer to stitch chart for recommended uses.

  1. Straight Stitch (1-4): General sewing, topstitching.
  2. Zigzag Stitch (5-7): Seam finishing, appliqué, stretch fabrics.
  3. Stretch Stitches (8-12): Knits and elastic fabrics.
  4. Decorative Stitches (13-32): Trims and embellishments.
  5. Buttonhole (marked): 4-step process for consistent buttonholes.

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

Threading and Bobbin Winding

Correct threading is essential for proper operation.

  1. Upper threading: Raise presser foot and needle to highest position. Follow numbered guide from spool pin to needle.
  2. Needle threader: Lower lever, hook thread, release lever to pull thread through needle eye.
  3. Bobbin winding: Place spool on pin, thread through bobbin winder tension, place bobbin on winder shaft, push shaft to right, press foot pedal.
  4. Bobbin insertion: Open cover, drop bobbin in with thread clockwise, pull thread into slot and under tension spring.

WARNING! Ensure machine is off when threading. Do not force dials or levers.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Unplug machine before cleaning. Regularly remove lint and dust.

  1. Remove needle plate screws; lift plate to clean feed dog and bobbin area.
  2. Use small brush to remove lint from bobbin case and race.
  3. Oil moving parts as per manual instructions (use only sewing machine oil).
  4. Wipe exterior with soft, dry cloth.

CAUTION! Never use compressed air; it can force lint deeper. Do not immerse machine in water.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with interference limits for residential use. Copyright © Singer Manufacturing Company. Trademarks owned by Singer. For support, visit www.singer.com or contact 1-800-4-SINGER.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Machine does not runPower connectionCheck power cord is plugged in; ensure foot pedal is connected.
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.
Uneven stitchesTension settingsAdjust tension dial; re-thread; check needle size for fabric.
Fabric not feedingFeed dog lowered/ dirtyCheck feed dog position; clean feed dog area.
Buttonhole not formingIncorrect stepsFollow 4-step buttonhole sequence precisely; stabilize fabric.

Reset: Unplug machine for 1 minute to reset electronic components.

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

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