singer sewing machine model 2273 manual
The Singer Model 2273 is a versatile, user-friendly mechanical sewing machine designed for home use. It features a built-in stitch selection dial, adjustable stitch length and width, a four-step buttonhole function, a drop-in bobbin system, and a free arm for sewing cylindrical items like sleeves and cuffs. This manual provides essential information for setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting to ensure optimal performance.
Features at a Glance
Key components: Stitch Selection Dial, Stitch Length/Width Adjusters, Reverse Sewing Lever, Bobbin Winder, Handwheel, Free Arm, Presser Foot, and Feed Dogs.
| Feature | Description |
| Built-in Stitches | Includes straight, zigzag, blind hem, stretch, and decorative stitches |
| Four-Step Buttonhole | Easy, manual buttonhole creation |
| Drop-in Bobbin | Top-loading, clear cover for easy threading and monitoring |
| Free Arm | Removable accessory tray for sewing cuffs and sleeves |
| Stitch Length Control | Adjustable for different fabrics and techniques |
| Stitch Width Control | Adjustable for zigzag and decorative stitches |
| Reverse Sewing Lever | Reinforce seams at beginning and end |
| Built-in Light | Illuminates the sewing area |
| Power/Foot Control | Variable speed control via foot pedal |
| Accessory Storage | Built-in compartment in the free arm |
Installation & Setup
Unpack the machine and accessories. Place on a stable, flat surface.
- Power Connection: Plug the foot control into the machine, then plug the power cord into a standard 120V AC outlet.
- Needle Installation: Raise the needle bar to its highest position. Loosen the needle clamp screw, insert the needle with the flat side facing the back, and tighten the screw firmly.
- Spool Pin & Thread Guide: Place the thread spool on the vertical spool pin. Follow the numbered threading path on the machine.
- Bobbin Winding: Place an empty bobbin on the winder spindle. Guide thread from spool through bobbin winder tension disc, then wind bobbin until full.
- Bobbin Insertion: Place the wound bobbin into the bobbin case with thread unwinding counterclockwise. Pull thread through the slot and under the tension spring.
WARNING! Keep fingers away from the needle area during setup and operation. Always unplug the machine when not in use or when performing maintenance.
First-Time Operation
After setup, perform a test sew on scrap fabric.
- Upper Threading: Follow the numbered guide on the machine from spool pin to needle. Ensure the presser foot is raised during threading.
- Bring Up Bobbin Thread: Hold the upper thread tail. Turn the handwheel toward you until the needle goes down and up, pulling the bobbin thread up through the needle plate.
- Fabric Placement: Raise the presser foot, place fabric under it, and lower the presser foot.
- Start Sewing: Gently press the foot control. Guide the fabric gently; do not push or pull.
- Reverse Stitch: Press and hold the reverse lever at the beginning and end of a seam to lock stitches.
CAUTION! Always start with the needle in the highest position and the presser foot down when sewing.
Specifications
- Model: Singer 2273
- Type: Mechanical Sewing Machine
- Built-in Stitches: 23 (including utility and decorative)
- Buttonholes: 1 (Four-step manual)
- Stitch Length: Adjustable up to 4mm
- Stitch Width: Adjustable up to 5mm
- Speed: Up to 750 stitches per minute
- Bobbin: Class 15 transparent, top-drop-in
- Needle: Singer System 130/705H (included)
- Presser Feet: All-purpose foot, buttonhole foot, zipper foot included
- Power Supply: 120V AC, 60Hz
- Dimensions: Compact design with free arm
- Weight: Lightweight for portability
Controls and Functions
Primary controls are located on the front and right side of the machine.
Stitch Selection Dial: Turn to select the desired stitch pattern. The icon will align with the indicator mark.
Stitch Length Dial: Controls the distance between stitches. Higher numbers for longer stitches (basting), lower for shorter (fine fabrics).
Stitch Width Dial: Controls the side-to-side width of zigzag and decorative stitches. Set to '0' for straight stitch.
Reverse Sewing Lever: Press and hold to sew in reverse. Release to sew forward.
Handwheel: Manually raises and lowers the needle. Always turn toward you (counterclockwise).
Bobbin Winder Spindle & Stop: Used to wind the bobbin. Automatically stops when full.
Presser Foot Lever: Raises and lowers the presser foot.
Tension Dial: Adjusts upper thread tension (usually set between 4-5 for balanced stitches).
Stitch Selection & Settings
Refer to the stitch chart on the machine or manual for recommended settings.
- Straight Stitch: Use for seams, topstitching. Set width to 0. Length: 2.0-2.5 for medium weight fabric.
- Zigzag Stitch: Use for finishing edges, appliqué, stretch fabrics. Adjust width and length as needed.
- Blind Hem Stitch: Use for nearly invisible hems on curtains and garments. Fold fabric as instructed and use the blind hem foot.
- Decorative Stitches: Select pattern on dial. Use stabilizer under lightweight fabrics for best results.
- Four-Step Buttonhole:
- Step 1: Right side of buttonhole (zigzag).
- Step 2: Bar tack at bottom.
- Step 3: Left side of buttonhole (zigzag).
- Step 4: Bar tack at top.
Mark buttonhole placement on fabric and use the buttonhole foot for guidance.
Basic Sewing Techniques
Master these fundamental techniques for successful sewing projects.
- Starting a Seam: Position fabric under needle. Lower presser foot. Sew a few reverse stitches, then sew forward.
- Seam Guides: Use the lines on the needle plate to maintain a consistent seam allowance (e.g., 5/8").
- Pivoting: To turn a corner, stop with needle down in fabric. Raise presser foot, pivot fabric, lower presser foot, continue sewing.
- Finishing a Seam: Sew reverse stitches at the end, then raise needle and presser foot to remove fabric. Cut threads.
- Using the Free Arm: Remove the accessory tray to access the free arm for sewing sleeves, pant legs, and other tubular items.
Tip: Practice new stitches and techniques on scrap fabric of the same type as your project.
Maintenance & Cleaning
Regular maintenance ensures smooth operation and longevity.
- Daily Cleaning: Unplug machine. Use the small brush provided to remove lint from the bobbin area, feed dogs, and around the needle plate.
- Oiling: Apply 1-2 drops of high-quality sewing machine oil to designated points (see diagram in manual) every few months or after extensive use. Wipe away excess oil.
- Needle Replacement: Replace the needle after every 8-10 hours of sewing or with every new project. A dull or bent needle causes skipped stitches and fabric damage.
- Exterior Cleaning: Wipe the machine casing with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use solvents or abrasives.
CAUTION! Always unplug the machine before cleaning or oiling. Use only sewing machine oil; other oils can damage internal parts.
Safety Information
- Always unplug the machine from the electrical outlet when making adjustments, changing needles, cleaning, or when not in use.
- Keep fingers, hair, and loose clothing away from all moving parts, especially the needle and handwheel.
- Do not use the machine if the power cord or foot control is damaged.
- Use the correct needle and thread for your fabric to prevent breakage and damage.
- This appliance is not intended for use by persons (including children) with reduced physical, sensory or mental capabilities.
- Store the machine in a dry place, out of direct sunlight and away from heat sources.
Warranty & Support
Singer provides a limited warranty for this product. Refer to the warranty card included in the packaging for specific terms and duration.
For technical support, replacement parts, or accessory inquiries:
- Website: www.singer.com
- Customer Service: 1-800-4-SINGER (1-800-474-6437)
- Manual & Resources: Download the full manual and find tutorials at the Singer support website.
Copyright © [Year] Singer. All rights reserved. Singer is a registered trademark.
Troubleshooting
| Symptom | Possible Cause | Corrective Action |
| Machine does not run | Not plugged in / Foot control not connected / Power switch off | Check all power connections. Ensure foot control is firmly plugged into machine. |
| Thread breaks | Incorrect threading / Damaged needle / Tension too tight / Poor quality thread | Re-thread top and bobbin. Replace needle. Reduce tension. Use good quality thread. |
| Skipped stitches | Wrong needle type/size / Bent needle / Incorrect threading / Needle inserted wrong | Replace with correct needle for fabric. Ensure needle is straight and inserted fully with flat side back. Re-thread. |
| Bobbin thread bunching | Bobbin threaded incorrectly / Lint in bobbin area | Re-thread bobbin ensuring correct direction. Clean bobbin area thoroughly. |
| Uneven stitches (loops) | Upper/bobbin tension unbalanced | Re-thread. Adjust tension dial slightly. Ensure bobbin is wound evenly and inserted correctly. |
| Fabric not feeding | Feed dogs lowered / Stitch length set to 0 / Presser foot pressure too light | Check that feed dogs are up (lever). Increase stitch length. Check presser foot is down securely. |
| Noisy operation | Lint buildup / Needs oiling / Thread caught in hook race | Clean and oil machine as per manual. Remove any tangled thread. |
| Needle breaks | Fabric pulled / Bent needle / Wrong needle size / Needle clamp screw loose | Let machine feed fabric; do not pull. Replace needle. Use correct size. Tighten needle clamp screw. |
Note: If problems persist after trying these solutions, contact Singer Customer Service or an authorized service center.
Singer Sewing Machine Model 2273 Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025