Singer Sewing Machine Model 1120 User Manual

The Singer Model 1120 is a versatile electric sewing machine designed for home use, featuring a built-in stitch selection dial, adjustable stitch length and width, reverse sewing function, automatic needle threader, drop-in bobbin system, free arm capability, and multiple presser feet for various sewing techniques. It operates on standard household current (120V AC) and includes essential accessories. 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 Sewing Techniques 8. Maintenance & Cleaning 9. Regulatory Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Main sewing unit with free arm, Foot Controller, Power Cord, Assorted Presser Feet, Bobbins, Needles, Seam Ripper/Lint Brush, Instruction Manual.

Feature	Description
Stitch Selection Dial	Selects from built-in utility and decorative stitches
Stitch Length/Width Controls	Adjusts stitch size for different fabrics
Reverse Sewing Lever	Reinforces seam beginnings and ends
Automatic Needle Threader	Assists in threading the needle eye
Drop-in Bobbin System	Top-loading, easy to insert and monitor thread
Free Arm	Removable flatbed for sewing cuffs and sleeves
Presser Foot Pressure Dial	Adjusts for lightweight to heavyweight fabrics
Built-in Light	Illuminates the sewing area
Power/Speed Control	On/off switch and foot controller for variable speed
Accessory Storage	Compartment in free arm for feet and tools

Unpacking and Setup

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

Position Machine: Ensure free space behind for fabric movement.
Connect Power: Plug foot controller into machine, then plug power cord into wall outlet (120V).
Install Needle: Loosen needle clamp screw, insert needle with flat side to back, tighten.
Wind Bobbin: Place thread spool on pin, guide thread through tension disc, wind onto bobbin.
Insert Bobbin: Drop bobbin into case with thread pulling counterclockwise.
Thread Upper Thread: Follow numbered path on machine, use automatic threader if needed.

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

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; test on scrap fabric.

Select Stitch: Turn dial to straight stitch (position 1).
Adjust Settings: Set stitch length to 2.5 (medium), width to 0 for straight stitch.
Lower Presser Foot: Raise lever, place fabric under foot, lower lever.
Start Sewing: Gently press foot controller; guide fabric without pulling.
Reverse: Hold reverse lever to backstitch at start and end.
Finish: Raise needle, lift presser foot, remove fabric, trim threads.

CAUTION! Always turn handwheel toward you (counterclockwise) to avoid timing disruption.

Specifications

Model: Singer 1120
Type: Electric, Free-Arm Sewing Machine
Stitches: 10 Built-in (straight, zigzag, blind hem, decorative)
Stitch Length: Adjustable up to 4mm
Stitch Width: Adjustable up to 5mm
Bobbin: Class 15 transparent, drop-in system
Needles: Standard domestic 130/705 H system
Max Sewing Speed: 750 stitches per minute
Power Supply: 120V AC, 60Hz
Included Feet: All-purpose, zipper, buttonhole, button sewing

Controls and Functions

Access controls on front and top of machine. Stitch Selection Dial: Choose pattern. Stitch Length Dial: 0-4 (0 for darning). Stitch Width Dial: 0-5mm. Reverse Sewing Lever: Hold to sew backward. Handwheel: Manual needle movement. Presser Foot Lever: Raises/lowers foot. Tension Dial: Adjusts upper thread tension (4 is normal). Bobbin Winder: Winds bobbin without threading needle. Light Switch: On/off for work area.

Foot Controller: Variable speed control; press lightly for slow, firmly for fast.

Basic Sewing Techniques

Straight Stitch: For seams. Zigzag: For stretch fabrics or finishing edges. Buttonhole: Use 4-step process with buttonhole foot. Blind Hem: For nearly invisible hems. Zipper Insertion: Use zipper foot. Gathering: Use longer stitch length and pull bobbin thread.

Always test stitch on fabric scrap.
Match needle and thread to fabric type.
Change presser foot as needed for technique.

Tip: Keep fabric edges aligned with seam guide for straight seams.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Unplug machine before any maintenance.

Cleaning: Remove needle plate, bobbin case; brush out lint with small brush.
Oiling: Apply 1-2 drops of sewing machine oil to hook race and moving parts as per manual.
Needle Replacement: Change needle after 8-10 hours of sewing or if dull/bent.
Storage: Cover machine when not in use; store in dry area.

CAUTION! Use only sewing machine oil; do not use household oils. Never blow into machine as moisture can cause rust.

Regulatory Information

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Machine does not run	Power connection	Check power cord is plugged in; outlet is live; foot controller connected.
Thread bunching underneath	Incorrect threading/bobbin	Re-thread upper and lower threads; ensure bobbin inserted correctly.
Needle breaks	Wrong needle/bent needle	Replace needle; ensure it is fully inserted and tightened.
Uneven stitches	Tension imbalance	Adjust tension dial; re-thread; clean tension discs.
Fabric not feeding	Presser foot pressure/feed dogs	Increase presser foot pressure; ensure feed dogs are raised.
Machine is noisy	Lint/lack of oil	Clean and oil machine as per maintenance section.

Reset: Unplug for 5 minutes if electronic issues occur.

Service: 1-800-4-SINGER; www.singer.com for authorized service centers.