Singer Sewing Machine Model 6012C Manual

The Singer 6012C is a versatile mechanical sewing machine designed for home use, featuring 12 built-in stitches, a 4-step buttonhole, adjustable stitch length and width, free arm capability, built-in needle threader, top drop-in bobbin, and reverse sewing function. It operates on 110-120V AC power and comes with a foot pedal speed control, accessory kit, and instructional materials. Below are key sections covering safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Sewing head with stitch selection dial, Free arm, Bobbin case, Spool pins, Needle clamp, Presser foot, Foot pedal, and Accessory compartment.

Unpacking and Setup

Carefully unpack all components and place machine on a stable, well-lit table.

1. Remove packaging materials and protective covers from machine.
2. Attach foot pedal: Plug cord into machine port (usually on right side).
3. Connect power: Plug machine power cord into a 110-120V AC outlet.
4. Install needle: Loosen needle clamp screw, insert needle with flat side to back, tighten screw.
5. Wind bobbin: Place thread on spool pin, follow threading guide, wind bobbin evenly.
6. Insert bobbin: Open bobbin cover, drop bobbin in with thread unwinding counterclockwise, pull thread through slot.

WARNING! Keep fingers away from needle area during setup. Ensure machine is unplugged when installing needle or bobbin.

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; turn handwheel toward you to raise needle to highest position.

1. Thread upper thread: Follow numbered path on machine, use built-in threader if needed.
2. Pull up bobbin thread: Hold upper thread, turn handwheel to lower and raise needle, pull thread to bring up bobbin loop.
3. Select stitch: Turn stitch pattern dial to desired stitch (e.g., straight stitch).
4. Adjust settings: Set stitch length (2-4 for normal sewing) and width (0 for straight stitch).
5. Place fabric under presser foot, lower foot lever, and gently press foot pedal to start sewing.
6. Practice on scrap fabric to adjust tension and speed.

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

Specifications

• Model: Singer 6012C Mechanical Sewing Machine.
• Stitches: 12 built-in stitches (6 utility, 4 decorative, 2 stretch).
• Buttonhole: 4-step manual buttonhole.
• Stitch Length: Adjustable up to 4mm.
• Stitch Width: Adjustable up to 5mm.
• Speed: Up to 750 stitches per minute.
• Bobbin: Top drop-in, Class 15 transparent bobbin.
• Needle: Standard domestic sewing machine needle (size 11/80 recommended).
• Power Supply: 110-120V AC, 60Hz.
• Included Accessories: All-purpose foot, buttonhole foot, zipper foot, darning plate, seam ripper, needles, bobbins, spool cap, lint brush, screwdriver.

Controls and Functions

Main Controls: Stitch pattern dial, Stitch length dial, Stitch width dial, Reverse lever, Handwheel, Presser foot lifter, Bobbin winder spindle, Light switch.

Stitch Guide: Dial icons indicate stitch type (straight, zigzag, blind hem, elastic, etc.).

Tension Control: Adjust upper thread tension (3-5 for balanced stitch). Needle Position: Center or left (adjustable via stitch width). Free Arm Conversion: Remove accessory compartment to access free arm. Presser Feet: Snap-on system for quick changes.

Basic Stitching Guide

Straight Stitch: Use for seams, topstitching. Zigzag: Use for finishing edges, appliqué. Buttonhole: 4-step process using buttonhole foot.

1. Select appropriate stitch and foot.
2. Adjust length/width as needed (e.g., shorter length for finer fabrics).
3. Place fabric under foot, lower presser foot.
4. Start sewing, guiding fabric gently without pulling.
5. Use reverse lever at beginning and end to lock stitches.
6. Raise presser foot and pull fabric to back to remove.

Tip: Always test stitch on a scrap of your project fabric first.

Advanced Techniques

Buttonhole: Mark buttonhole position, attach buttonhole foot, select step 1 (left side), sew, then follow steps 2-4 to complete. Zipper Insertion: Use zipper foot for centered or invisible zippers. Blind Hem: Use blind hem foot and stitch for nearly invisible hems. Darning: Remove presser foot, lower feed dogs (if possible), use darning plate.

1. Refer to stitch guide for recommended settings.
2. Change presser foot as needed (snap on/off).
3. Practice technique on spare fabric.
4. Use appropriate needle and thread for fabric type.

WARNING! Keep fingers clear of moving needle. Turn off or unplug when changing feet.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Unplug machine before cleaning. Regularly remove lint from bobbin area and feed dogs.

1. Open bobbin cover and remove bobbin.
2. Use small brush to clean lint from bobbin case and surrounding area.
3. Wipe exterior with soft, dry cloth.
4. Oil as per manual instructions (if required; some models are self-lubricating).
5. Cover machine when not in use to prevent dust accumulation.

CAUTION! Do not use compressed air or liquids. Never immerse machine in water.

Safety Information

Always unplug machine when not in use, during needle changes, or when cleaning. Keep hands away from needle and moving parts. Do not operate with damaged cord or foot pedal. Use machine in a dry, well-ventilated area. Keep out of reach of children.

Electrical Safety: Use correct voltage. Do not use extension cords permanently.

Warranty & Support

Singer limited warranty covers defects in materials/workmanship (see warranty card for details). For service, contact authorized Singer service center. For support, visit www.singer.com or contact customer service at 1-800-4-SINGER. Keep purchase receipt for warranty validation.

Troubleshooting

Reset: Unplug machine for 5 minutes, then restart.

Service: 1-800-4-SINGER; www.singer.com