Singer Sewing Machine Model 2502C Manual

The Singer 2502C is a versatile mechanical sewing machine designed for home use, featuring a built-in stitch selection dial, adjustable stitch length and width, four-step buttonhole function, free arm capability, drop feed for darning and free-motion sewing, built-in needle threader, top drop-in bobbin system, and reverse sewing lever. Powered by 110-120V AC. 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. Threading the Machine 7. Basic Sewing Techniques 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Stitch selection dial, stitch length dial, stitch width dial, reverse sewing lever, free arm, built-in needle threader, top drop-in bobbin system, presser foot pressure dial, feed dog drop lever.

FeatureDescription
Stitch Selection DialSelects from 6 built-in stitches (straight, zigzag, blind hem, etc.)
Stitch Length DialAdjusts stitch length from 0-4 mm
Stitch Width DialAdjusts zigzag width from 0-5 mm
Reverse Sewing LeverEngages reverse stitching for securing seams
Free ArmRemovable accessory tray for sewing cuffs and sleeves
Built-in Needle ThreaderAssists in threading the needle
Top Drop-in BobbinEasy-to-load bobbin system with clear cover
Presser Foot Pressure DialAdjusts pressure for different fabric types
Feed Dog Drop LeverLowers feed dogs for darning and free-motion sewing
Power/Foot ControlIncludes foot pedal for speed control

Unpacking and Setup

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

  1. Remove machine from box and place on table.
  2. Attach power cord to machine and plug into 110-120V outlet.
  3. Install foot pedal and connect to machine.
  4. Remove protective covers and packing materials.
  5. Install needle (flat side to back) and tighten screw.
  6. Wind bobbin and insert into bobbin case.

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

First-Time Operation

Before sewing, complete initial setup and threading.

  1. Raise presser foot using lever.
  2. Thread upper thread following numbered path on machine.
  3. Use built-in needle threader if needed.
  4. Pull bobbin thread up through needle plate.
  5. Select straight stitch (position 1) on dial.
  6. Place fabric under presser foot, lower foot, and begin sewing with gentle pressure on foot pedal.

CAUTION! Always turn handwheel toward you (counter-clockwise) to avoid timing issues. Never force the handwheel.

Specifications

Controls and Functions

Main controls located on front and side of machine.

Stitch Selection Dial: Turn to select desired stitch pattern (positions 1-6). Stitch Length Dial: Controls stitch length; higher numbers = longer stitches. Stitch Width Dial: Controls zigzag width; set to 0 for straight stitch. Reverse Lever: Press and hold to sew in reverse. Handwheel: Manual control of needle position; always turn toward you. Presser Foot Lever: Raises and lowers presser foot. Tension Dial: Adjusts upper thread tension (usually set to 4 for normal sewing).

Threading the Machine

Proper threading is essential for good stitch quality.

  1. Raise presser foot and needle to highest position.
  2. Place spool on spool pin.
  3. Follow numbered threading path: through first thread guide, down and around tension discs, up through take-up lever, down through second thread guide.
  4. Use built-in needle threader or thread needle manually from front to back.
  5. For bobbin: Wind bobbin using bobbin winder, insert with thread running counter-clockwise, pull thread through slot and under tension spring.
  6. Hold upper thread, turn handwheel to lower and raise needle, pull up bobbin thread.

Tip: Always thread with presser foot raised to open tension discs.

Basic Sewing Techniques

Master these fundamental techniques for successful sewing.

  1. Straight Stitch: Select position 1, set width to 0, length 2.5 mm for medium-weight fabric.
  2. Zigzag Stitch: Select position 2, adjust width and length as needed for finishing edges.
  3. Blind Hem: Select position 3, fold fabric as instructed, stitch along fold.
  4. Buttonhole: Use 4-step process: 1) right side zigzag, 2) bar tack, 3) left side zigzag, 4) bar tack.
  5. Reverse Stitching: Hold reverse lever at beginning and end of seam to lock stitches.
  6. Free Arm Sewing: Remove accessory tray for sewing sleeves and cuffs.
  7. Darning/Free Motion: Lower feed dogs, attach darning foot, move fabric manually.

WARNING! Always use appropriate needle and thread for fabric type. Change needle after 8-10 hours of sewing.

Care & Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

  1. Unplug machine before cleaning.
  2. Remove needle plate and bobbin case to clean lint with brush (included).
  3. Oil moving parts with sewing machine oil (2-3 drops) every 3-6 months.
  4. Wipe exterior with soft, dry cloth.
  5. Cover machine when not in use to prevent dust accumulation.
  6. Replace needle regularly (every project or after 8-10 hours of use).

CAUTION! Use only sewing machine oil. Do not use household oils. Never spray cleaners directly on machine.

Regulatory Information

UL Listed: Complies with UL safety standards. FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with interference limits for residential use. Copyright © Singer Manufacturing Company. All trademarks are property of Singer. For support, visit www.singer.com or contact 1-800-4-SINGER.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Thread bunching underneathIncorrect threading or tensionRe-thread completely; check bobbin insertion; adjust tension.
Needle breaksWrong needle size, bent needle, or incorrect insertionReplace needle; ensure flat side faces back; use correct needle for fabric.
Machine won't runPower connection, foot control, or jamCheck power cord; ensure foot control is plugged in; remove jammed thread.
Uneven stitchesPoor threading, tension, or dirty machineRe-thread; clean lint from bobbin area; adjust tension dial.
Fabric not feedingFeed dogs lowered, presser foot pressure too lightRaise feed dogs; increase presser foot pressure; clean feed dogs.
Thread breaks frequentlyOld thread, burred needle, or tension too tightUse fresh thread; replace needle; reduce tension.
Buttonhole not formingIncorrect stitch selection or settingsFollow 4-step process exactly; use buttonhole foot; practice on scrap fabric.

Reset: Unplug machine for 5 minutes to reset electronic components (if applicable).

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

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