Singer Sewing Machine Model 3116 User Manual

The Singer Model 3116 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, built-in needle threader, top drop-in bobbin system, and reverse stitching. It operates on 110-120V AC and includes essential accessories. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Stitch Selection Dial, Stitch Length/Width Adjusters, Reverse Lever, Bobbin Winder, Handwheel, Free Arm, Built-in Needle Threader, Foot Pedal.

Unpacking and Setup

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

1. Remove machine from box: Lift by carrying handle, not by free arm.
2. Install foot: Lower presser foot lever, snap on All-Purpose Foot.
3. Connect power: Plug foot pedal into machine, then plug power cord into wall outlet (110-120V).
4. Wind bobbin: Place empty bobbin on winder, thread through guide, engage bobbin winder.
5. Insert bobbin: Drop bobbin into case with thread running counterclockwise.

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

First-Time Operation

Plug in power, turn handwheel toward you to raise needle to highest position.

1. Thread upper thread: Follow numbered guides from spool to needle using built-in threader.
2. Pull up bobbin thread: Hold upper thread, turn handwheel to bring bobbin thread up through needle plate.
3. Select stitch: Turn Stitch Selection Dial to desired pattern (e.g., straight stitch).
4. Adjust settings: Set stitch length to 2.5 mm and width to 0 for straight stitch.
5. Test sew: Place fabric under presser foot, lower foot, gently press pedal to begin sewing.

CAUTION! Always turn handwheel toward you only. Never force the machine.

Specifications

• Type: Mechanical Sewing Machine.
• Built-in Stitches: 6 stitches.
• Buttonhole: 4-step manual.
• Stitch Length: Adjustable 0-4 mm.
• Stitch Width: Adjustable 0-5 mm.
• Bobbin: Top drop-in, Class 15 transparent bobbin.
• Needle: Standard domestic sewing machine needle (HAx1).
• Max Sewing Speed: 750 stitches per minute.
• Power Supply: 110-120V AC, 60Hz.
• Included Accessories: All-Purpose Foot, Buttonhole Foot, Zipper Foot, Seam Ripper, Brush, Needles, Bobbins, Screwdriver.

Controls and Functions

Main controls located on front and side of machine.

Front Panel: Stitch Selection Dial, Stitch Length Dial, Stitch Width Dial, Reverse Stitch Lever, Handwheel, Bobbin Winder, Presser Foot Lever.

Operation: Stitch Selection - turn dial to symbol/number. Stitch Length - higher number for longer stitches. Stitch Width - adjust for zigzag or decorative stitches. Reverse - hold lever to sew backwards. Bobbin Winding - push bobbin to right to engage. Presser Foot Pressure - preset, not adjustable on this model.

Threading the Machine

Correct threading is essential for proper operation.

1. Raise needle: Turn handwheel to bring needle to highest position.
2. Place spool: Put thread spool on spool pin.
3. Follow guides: Thread through upper tension dial, down to take-up lever, down to needle.
4. Use needle threader: Push lever down, hook thread, pull back to thread needle.
5. Bobbin thread: Ensure bobbin is inserted correctly with thread coming off counterclockwise.
6. Pull up bobbin thread: Hold upper thread, turn handwheel until bobbin thread loops up.

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

Basic Stitching Techniques

Master these fundamental techniques.

1. Straight stitch: Select straight stitch symbol, length 2.5 mm, width 0.
2. Zigzag stitch: Select zigzag symbol, adjust width as needed for finishing edges.
3. Reverse stitching: Hold Reverse Lever at beginning and end of seam to lock stitches.
4. Four-step buttonhole:
   • Step 1: Right side of buttonhole (zigzag).
   • Step 2: Bar tack at end.
   • Step 3: Left side of buttonhole.
   • Step 4: Bar tack at beginning.
5. Free arm sewing: Remove accessory tray for sewing cylindrical items like sleeves.

WARNING! Keep fingers away from moving needle. Use handwheel to position needle when changing direction.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance.

1. Unplug machine before any maintenance.
2. Clean lint: Remove needle plate screws, lift plate, use brush to clean feed dog and bobbin area.
3. Oil: Apply 1-2 drops of sewing machine oil to hook race and moving parts as indicated in diagram (monthly for frequent use).
4. Needle: Replace bent or dull needles immediately.
5. Cover: Use dust cover when not in use.

CAUTION! Use only sewing machine oil. Do not use household oils. Wipe excess oil before sewing.

Accessories

Standard accessories included with Model 3116.

Regulatory Information

UL Listed: Complies with UL Standard 60730-1. FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with interference limits for residential use. Copyright © Singer Sewing Company. All trademarks are property of Singer. For support, visit www.singer.com or contact 1-800-4-SINGER.

Troubleshooting

Reset: Unplug machine for 5 minutes to reset electronic components.

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