Singer Sewing Machine Model 237 Manual

The Singer Model 237 is a versatile, free-arm, zigzag sewing machine designed for household use. It features a built-in stitch selection dial, reverse stitching, adjustable stitch length and width, built-in buttonholer, drop feed for darning and free-motion sewing, and a variety of presser feet. Powered by a standard 120V AC motor, it is suitable for sewing a wide range of fabrics. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Free-arm bed, Stitch pattern dial, Reverse stitch lever, Stitch length and width selectors, Built-in buttonholer, Drop feed lever, Bobbin winder, Built-in light, Foot pedal control.

Unpacking and Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable table.

1. Remove machine from packaging: Lift by carrying handle; remove all protective materials.
2. Attach foot pedal: Plug cord into machine socket.
3. Connect power: Plug machine power cord into 120V AC outlet.
4. Install needle: Loosen needle clamp screw, insert needle with flat side to back, tighten screw.
5. Attach presser foot: Raise presser foot lever, snap foot into place.

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

First-Time Operation

Plug in machine; turn power switch on.

1. Wind bobbin: Place thread on spool pin, guide through tension disc, wind onto bobbin.
2. Insert bobbin: Place bobbin in case with thread unwinding clockwise; insert into shuttle.
3. Thread upper thread: Follow numbered threading path on machine to needle.
4. Select stitch: Turn pattern dial to straight stitch for basic sewing.
5. Test sew: Place fabric under presser foot, lower foot, press pedal gently.

CAUTION! Always lower presser foot before sewing. Start with slow speed to control stitching.

Specifications

• Model: Singer 237.
• Type: Free-arm, zigzag household sewing machine.
• Stitches: Straight, zigzag, blind hem, stretch, decorative.
• Stitch Length: 0–4 mm adjustable.
• Stitch Width: 0–5 mm adjustable.
• Buttonhole: One-step, automatic.
• Feed Dogs: Drop feed capability.
• Bobbin: Class 15, front loading.
• Needle: Standard domestic 15x1 (HAx1).
• Power: 120V AC, 60Hz, 0.7A.
• Weight: Approx. 12 lbs (5.4 kg).

Controls and Functions

Access controls on front and side of machine. Power Switch: On/Off. Stitch Pattern Dial: Selects stitch type. Stitch Length Dial: Controls stitch length. Stitch Width Dial: Adjusts zigzag width. Reverse Stitch Lever: Hold for backward sewing. Drop Feed Lever: Lowers feed dogs. Presser Foot Lever: Raises/lowers presser foot. Handwheel: Manual control; turn toward you.

Thread Tension: Dial for upper thread tension (higher number = tighter). Bobbin tension is factory set.

Stitch Selection Guide

Use pattern dial to select stitches.

1. Straight stitch (center position): General sewing, seams.
2. Zigzag stitch: Overcasting, appliqué, stretch fabrics.
3. Blind hem stitch: Nearly invisible hems.
4. Stretch stitch: For knits and elastic fabrics.
5. Decorative stitches: Use with appropriate width/length.
6. Buttonhole: Turn dial to buttonhole symbol; follow markings.

Tip: Test stitch on scrap fabric before sewing project.

Threading and Bobbin Winding

Correct threading is essential.

1. Upper threading: Follow numbered guides from spool pin to needle eye.
2. Bobbin winding: Disengage clutch by pushing handwheel inward; place thread on spool pin, wind bobbin until full.
3. Bobbin insertion: Open slide plate, insert bobbin with thread pulling counterclockwise, pull thread through slot.
4. Bring up bobbin thread: Hold upper thread, turn handwheel toward you until needle goes down and up; pull upper thread to bring bobbin loop up.

WARNING! Ensure machine is off and needle is at highest position when threading.

Maintenance and Cleaning

Unplug before maintenance. Clean lint from bobbin area and feed dogs regularly. Oil as per manual instructions (use only sewing machine oil).

CAUTION! Do not use compressed air; it can force lint into mechanism. Never oil without unplugging machine.

Accessories

Standard accessories: All-purpose foot, Zipper foot, Buttonhole foot, Button sewing foot, Darning/embroidery foot, Seam ripper/lint brush, Screwdriver, Spool pins, Bobbins (Class 15), Needles.

Warranty Information

Singer limited warranty: Covers defects in materials/workmanship for specified period from date of purchase. Proof of purchase required. For warranty service, contact authorized Singer service center. For support, visit www.singer.com or contact 1-800-4-SINGER.

Troubleshooting

Reset: Unplug machine for 5 minutes if electronic issues occur.

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