singer sewing machine model 3221 manual

The Singer Sewing Machine Model 3221 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, drop-in bobbin system, free arm capability, and multiple presser feet. It operates on standard household power (120V, 60Hz) and is suitable for a wide range of fabrics. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Stitch selection dial, Stitch length control, Stitch width control, Reverse stitch lever, Bobbin winder, Free arm, Built-in light, Foot pedal, Accessory storage.

Unpacking and Setup

Unpack all components and inspect for damage. Place on a stable, flat surface.

1. Remove machine from packaging: Lift by the carrying handle, not by the free arm.
2. Attach power cord: Plug foot pedal into machine, then plug power cord into machine and wall outlet.
3. Install needle: Loosen needle clamp screw, insert needle with flat side to the back, tighten screw.
4. Wind bobbin: Place thread on spool pin, guide through bobbin winder tension, place bobbin on winder shaft, engage bobbin winder.
5. Insert bobbin: Drop bobbin into case with thread running counterclockwise, pull thread through slot.
6. Thread upper thread: Follow numbered threading path on machine from spool to needle.

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

First-Time Operation

Plug in power, turn on power switch (if present), and test basic functions.

1. Raise presser foot using lever.
2. Place fabric under presser foot, lower presser foot.
3. Gently press foot pedal to start sewing. Control speed with pedal pressure.
4. Practice straight stitching on scrap fabric to adjust tension and stitch length.
5. Use reverse lever at beginning and end of seams to lock stitches.

CAUTION! Always start with needle in highest position. Never pull fabric while needle is in it.

Specifications

• Type: Mechanical Sewing Machine
• Stitches: Built-in selection including straight, zigzag, blind hem, stretch stitches
• Stitch Length: Adjustable, 0-4 mm
• Stitch Width: Adjustable, up to 5 mm
• Buttonhole: 4-step manual
• Bobbin: Class 15 transparent, top-drop-in
• Needle: Standard domestic sewing machine needles (size 11/80 recommended for general use)
• Max Sewing Speed: 750 stitches per minute
• Power Supply: 120V AC, 60Hz
• Light Bulb: 15W (replaceable)
• Weight: Approx. 13.2 lbs (6 kg)

Controls and Functions

Main controls located on front and right side of machine.

Stitch Selection Dial: Turn to select desired stitch pattern (symbols indicated on dial). Stitch Length Dial: Higher numbers = longer stitches. Stitch Width Dial: Controls width of zigzag and decorative stitches. Reverse Stitch Lever: Hold down to sew in reverse. Handwheel: Manually raise/lower needle. Turn toward you only. Presser Foot Lever: Raises and lowers presser foot. Tension Dial: Adjusts upper thread tension (4 is normal setting).

Basic Stitching Guide

For straight stitch: Select straight stitch symbol on dial. Set stitch length to 2.5-3. For zigzag: Select zigzag symbol, adjust width as needed.

1. Always test stitch settings on a scrap of your project fabric.
2. Ensure presser foot is appropriate for the stitch (e.g., all-purpose foot for straight/zigzag).
3. Guide fabric gently, letting feed dogs move it. Do not push or pull.
4. For seams, align fabric edge with seam guide on needle plate.

Tip: Keep threads behind presser foot when starting to prevent tangling.

Advanced Functions

Four-Step Buttonhole:

1. Attach buttonhole foot. Mark buttonhole placement on fabric.
2. Step 1 (Right side): Select zigzag stitch, appropriate width/length. Sew forward to desired length.
3. Step 2 (Bar tack): Select satin stitch (width 5). Sew few stitches.
4. Step 3 (Left side): Select same zigzag as step 1, sew backward.
5. Step 4 (Bar tack): Repeat step 2. Cut buttonhole open with seam ripper.

Free Arm: Remove accessory tray by pulling to the right. Use for sewing sleeves, cuffs, pant legs.

Button Sewing: Attach button sewing foot. Set stitch width to match buttonhole spacing. Set stitch length to 0. Manually turn handwheel to check needle clears button holes.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Unplug machine before any maintenance.

1. Cleaning: Remove needle plate screws, lift off plate. Use small brush to remove lint from feed dogs and bobbin area.
2. Oiling: Apply 1-2 drops of sewing machine oil to moving parts as indicated in manual (hook race, bobbin case area) every few months or after extensive use.
3. Needle: Replace bent or dull needles immediately. Always use correct needle for fabric type.
4. Cover machine when not in use to prevent dust accumulation.

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

Regulatory Information

This sewing machine complies with applicable safety standards. The Singer name and logo are trademarks of Singer Licensing B.V. For genuine parts and accessories, visit authorized Singer dealers or www.singer.com. Customer Support: 1-800-4-SINGER.

Troubleshooting

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

Service: For repairs not covered in manual, contact authorized Singer service center.