Singer Sewing Machine Model 600E Manual

The Singer Model 600E is a versatile electric sewing machine designed for home use, featuring a built-in light, reverse stitching, adjustable stitch length and width, multiple stitch patterns, a drop feed for free-motion sewing, a built-in buttonholer, and a free arm for cylindrical sewing. It operates on standard household current (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. Basic Sewing Techniques 7. Advanced Features 8. Maintenance & Cleaning 9. Needle and Thread Guide 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Main sewing unit with free arm, Foot Controller, Power Cord, Assorted Presser Feet, Bobbins, Needles, Seam Ripper/Lint Brush, and Instruction Manual.

FeatureDescription
Built-in LightIlluminates the sewing area
Reverse Stitch LeverFor reinforcing seams at beginning and end
Stitch Length DialAdjusts stitch length from 0 to 4 mm
Stitch Width DialAdjusts zigzag width from 0 to 5 mm
Pattern SelectorChooses from straight, zigzag, and decorative stitches
Drop Feed LeverLowers feed dogs for free-motion sewing or darning
Built-in ButtonholerCreates one-step buttonholes
Free ArmRemovable flatbed accessory for sewing cuffs and sleeves
Bobbin WinderBuilt-in spindle for winding bobbin
Tension Control DialAdjusts upper thread tension

Unpacking and Setup

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

  1. Attach Power Cord: Plug cord into machine and then into a 120V AC outlet.
  2. Install Light Bulb: If not pre-installed, screw bulb into socket under hinged cover.
  3. Attach Foot Controller: Plug controller into machine port.
  4. Insert Needle: Loosen needle clamp screw, insert needle with flat side to back, tighten screw.
  5. Wind Bobbin: Place thread on spool pin, guide through tension disc, wind onto bobbin.
  6. Insert Bobbin: Place bobbin in case with thread unwinding counterclockwise; pull thread through slot.

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

First-Time Operation

Plug in machine and turn on power switch. Follow these steps for first seam.

  1. Thread the Machine: Follow numbered guides from spool pin to needle eye.
  2. Draw Up Bobbin Thread: Hold needle thread, turn handwheel toward you to lower and raise needle; pull up bobbin thread loop.
  3. Place Fabric: Lower presser foot lever.
  4. Start Sewing: Gently press foot controller. Guide fabric lightly.
  5. Reverse: Hold reverse lever to backstitch at start and end of seam.
  6. Finish: Raise needle, lift presser foot, pull fabric to rear and cut threads.

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

Specifications

Controls and Functions

Main Controls: Power Switch, Stitch Length Dial, Stitch Width Dial, Pattern Selector, Reverse Lever, Tension Dial, Drop Feed Lever.

Presser Feet: All-Purpose (Zigzag) Foot, Zipper Foot, Buttonhole Foot, Button Sewing Foot, Blind Hem Foot.

Stitch Selection: Turn Pattern Selector to desired symbol. Adjust length/width as needed. Tension: Normal setting is 4; adjust for different fabrics. Bobbin Winding: Disengages needle mechanism automatically.

Basic Sewing Techniques

Straight Stitch: Select straight stitch pattern. Set length (2.5 mm for medium weight). Zigzag Stitch: Select zigzag, adjust width for finishing edges or sewing stretch fabrics.

  1. Always test stitch on scrap fabric first.
  2. Match needle and thread to fabric type.
  3. Guide fabric; do not push or pull.
  4. Use reverse at start and end to lock stitches.

Tip: Keep the machine oiled and clean for smooth operation.

Advanced Features

One-Step Buttonhole: Attach buttonhole foot. Place fabric. Select buttonhole pattern. Machine sews perfect buttonhole automatically.

  1. Decorative Stitches: Use Pattern Selector for scallops, multiple zigzag, etc.
  2. Free-Motion Sewing/Darning: Lower feed dogs, use darning foot, move fabric manually.
  3. Zipper Insertion: Use zipper foot for close stitching.
  4. Blind Hem: Use blind hem foot and stitch for nearly invisible hems.

WARNING! Keep fingers clear of moving needle during buttonhole cycle.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Unplug machine before any maintenance.

  1. Cleaning: Remove needle plate, bobbin case. Use small brush to remove lint and dust.
  2. Oiling: Apply one drop of Singer sewing machine oil to designated points (see diagram) after every 8 hours of use.
  3. Needle Plate/Bobbin Area: Clean frequently to prevent thread jams.

CAUTION! Use only sewing machine oil. Do not spray cleaners or lubricants.

Needle and Thread Guide

Fabric TypeNeedle SizeThread Type
Lightweight (Silk, Chiffon)9/70 or 11/75Fine Cotton or Polyester
Medium (Cotton, Linen)14/90All-Purpose Polyester
Heavy (Denim, Canvas)16/100 or 18/110Heavy Duty Thread
Stretch (Knit, Jersey)Ballpoint 14/90Polyester or Woolly Nylon

Always insert needle correctly. Change needle after every project or if dull/bent.

Regulatory Information

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

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Machine does not runPower connectionCheck plug, outlet, and power switch. Ensure foot controller is plugged in.
Thread breakingTension/needleRethread top and bobbin. Check for burrs on needle or throat plate. Adjust tension.
Uneven stitchesThreading/tensionRethread completely. Clean bobbin area. Adjust tension dial.
Fabric not feedingFeed dogs loweredCheck drop feed lever position; raise feed dogs.
Needle breaksWrong needle/bent needleReplace needle. Ensure it is inserted fully and tightened. Do not pull fabric.
Bobbin thread bunchingBobbin threadingReinsert bobbin ensuring thread unwinds in correct direction. Rethread top.

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

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

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