Singer Sewing Machine Model 328K User Manual

The Singer Model 328K is a versatile mechanical sewing machine featuring straight and zigzag stitches, built-in buttonholer, free arm capability, adjustable stitch length and width, reverse sewing, drop feed for darning and free-motion work, built-in light, and easy threading system. It operates on standard household current (120V AC) and includes essential accessories. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Main sewing unit with free arm, Bobbin case and shuttle, Stitch selection dial, Stitch length and width controls, Reverse lever, Handwheel, Presser foot with lever, Built-in work light, Foot pedal control, Power cord.

Unpacking and Setup

Unpack all contents carefully. Place machine on stable, level surface.

1. Remove machine from box and protective packaging.
2. Attach power cord to machine and plug into grounded outlet.
3. Install foot pedal and position for comfortable use.
4. Install needle: Loosen needle clamp screw, insert needle with flat side to back, tighten screw.
5. Wind bobbin: Place empty bobbin on winder, thread through guide, engage winder.
6. Insert bobbin: Open bobbin cover, drop in bobbin with thread unwinding clockwise.

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

Getting Started

Power on machine; light should illuminate. Practice on scrap fabric first.

1. Thread upper thread: Follow numbered guides from spool to needle.
2. Draw up bobbin thread: Hold upper thread, turn handwheel toward you to bring up bobbin thread.
3. Place fabric under presser foot, lower presser foot lever.
4. Start sewing: Gently press foot pedal to begin stitching.
5. Guide fabric gently; do not push or pull.
6. Finish seam: Use reverse lever to backstitch, then raise needle and presser foot to remove fabric.

CAUTION! Always raise needle to highest position before removing fabric to avoid needle breakage.

Specifications

• Model: Singer 328K Mechanical Sewing Machine.
• Stitch Types: Straight, zigzag, blind hem, stretch stitches, decorative patterns.
• Stitch Length: Adjustable 0-4 mm.
• Stitch Width: Adjustable 0-5 mm.
• Buttonhole: One-step, adjustable size.
• Max Sewing Speed: Up to 800 stitches per minute.
• Needle System: Standard 15x1 (HAx1) household needles.
• Bobbin: Class 15 transparent bobbin.
• Presser Feet: Includes general purpose, zipper, buttonhole, and button sewing feet.
• Power Source: 120V AC, 60Hz.
• Weight: Approximately 12 lbs (5.4 kg).

Controls and Functions

Access all controls on front and side of machine. Handwheel: Turn toward you only. Stitch Selector: Turn to choose pattern. Stitch Length: Higher numbers = longer stitches. Stitch Width: Higher numbers = wider zigzag. Reverse Lever: Hold down for backstitching. Drop Feed Lever: Push to lower feed dogs. Tension Dial: Higher numbers = tighter tension (4 is normal). Presser Foot Lever: Raises and lowers presser foot.

Quick Reference: For straight stitching: Set stitch selector to straight, length 2.5, width 0. For zigzag: Select zigzag pattern, adjust width as needed.

Basic Stitching

Straight stitch: Most common for seams. Zigzag: Prevents fraying; used for stretch fabrics.

1. Select appropriate stitch on dial.
2. Set stitch length and width.
3. Thread machine with correct thread for fabric.
4. Test stitch on scrap fabric; adjust tension if needed.
5. Align fabric edges; guide under presser foot.
6. Start with backstitch, sew forward, end with backstitch.
7. Trim threads with built-in thread cutter.

Tip: Use shorter stitches (1.5-2) for delicate fabrics, longer stitches (3-4) for basting.

Advanced Techniques

Buttonholes: Use built-in buttonholer with buttonhole foot.

1. Mark buttonhole position on fabric.
2. Attach buttonhole foot; place button in foot holder.
3. Set stitch selector to buttonhole symbol.
4. Lower presser foot; start sewing – machine will sew all four sides automatically.
5. Cut buttonhole open with seam ripper.

Free-motion/Darning: Lower feed dogs using drop feed lever. Attach darning foot. Move fabric manually in any direction.

Zipper Installation: Use zipper foot for close stitching next to zipper teeth.

WARNING! Go slowly on thick layers; clean lint buildup regularly.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Unplug machine before maintenance. Clean lint from bobbin area and feed dogs after each project. Oil according to manual instructions (use only sewing machine oil).

1. Remove needle plate screws; lift off plate.
2. Use small brush to remove lint from bobbin area and feed dogs.
3. Apply 1-2 drops of oil to moving parts as shown in diagram (hook race, shuttle).
4. Wipe excess oil; replace needle plate.
5. Replace needle regularly (after 8-10 hours of sewing).

CAUTION! Never use compressed air; it can force lint deeper. Do not oil plastic parts.

Accessories

Standard accessories included: General purpose foot, Zipper foot, Buttonhole foot, Button sewing foot, Seam ripper/lint brush, Screwdriver, Spool pin felt, Extra needles (size 14), Class 15 bobbins (3), Darning plate.

Optional: Walking foot, Quilting guide, Edge/joining foot, Blind hem foot available separately.

Safety Information

Always unplug machine when not in use, during threading, needle changes, or cleaning. Keep fingers away from moving needle. Do not sew over pins. Use proper lighting. Keep cord away from heated surfaces. This machine is for household use only.

Important: Disconnect power by pulling plug, not cord. Service by qualified technician only.

Troubleshooting

Service: For repairs, contact authorized Singer service center. Visit www.singer.com or call 1-800-4-SINGER.