Singer Sewing Machine Model M3500 Manual

The Singer M3500 is a mechanical sewing machine designed for beginners and intermediate sewers, featuring 32 built-in stitches, a 4-step buttonhole, automatic needle threader, adjustable stitch length and width, free arm capability, built-in LED light, top drop-in bobbin system, and reverse sewing function. Powered by 110-120V 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. Stitch Selection Guide 7. Threading and Bobbin 8. Maintenance & Cleaning 9. Accessories 10. Safety Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Sewing machine head, foot pedal, power cord, accessory kit, instruction manual.

FeatureDescription
Built-in Stitches32 stitches including utility, decorative, and stretch
4-Step ButtonholeManual buttonhole for consistent results
Automatic Needle ThreaderEasy threading with built-in mechanism
Adjustable Stitch Length0-4 mm length control dial
Adjustable Stitch Width0-5 mm width control dial
Free ArmConvertible for sewing cuffs and sleeves
Top Drop-in BobbinEasy bobbin loading with clear cover
Built-in LED LightIlluminates sewing area
Reverse Sewing LeverReinforce stitches at beginning and end
Power/Speed ControlFoot pedal with variable speed

Unpacking and Setup

Unpack all components and place on stable surface.

  1. Remove machine from box: Lift machine by carrying handle.
  2. Attach foot pedal: Connect pedal to machine port.
  3. Connect power: Plug power cord into machine and wall outlet.
  4. Install needle: Loosen needle clamp screw, insert needle flat side back, tighten.
  5. Wind bobbin: Follow bobbin winding instructions.

WARNING! Machine is heavy; use both hands when lifting. Ensure work area is clean and well-lit.

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; follow threading guide.

  1. Thread upper thread: Follow numbered path on machine; use automatic needle threader.
  2. Insert bobbin: Place bobbin in case with thread unwinding counterclockwise.
  3. Select stitch: Turn stitch selection dial to desired pattern.
  4. Adjust settings: Set stitch length and width as needed.
  5. Test sew: Use scrap fabric to check tension and stitch quality.

CAUTION! Keep fingers away from needle during operation. Always turn off when not in use.

Specifications

Controls and Functions

Front Panel: Stitch selection dial, stitch length dial, stitch width dial, reverse lever, bobbin winder.

Additional Controls: Power switch, foot pedal connector, handwheel, presser foot lever, thread cutter.

Stitch Selection: Turn dial to select from 32 stitches (numbered 1-32). Stitch Length: 0-4 mm (0 for darning, 4 for basting). Stitch Width: 0-5 mm (0 for straight stitch, 5 for zigzag). Reverse: Hold lever to sew backwards. Tension: Upper thread tension dial (3-5 for normal sewing).

Stitch Selection Guide

Stitch chart included on machine. Common uses:

  1. Straight Stitch (1-3): Basic sewing, seams.
  2. Zigzag Stitch (4-6): Finishing edges, appliqué.
  3. Decorative Stitches (7-20): Embellishments.
  4. Stretch Stitches (21-25): Knits, elastic fabrics.
  5. Buttonhole (26-29): 4-step process for buttons.
  6. Blind Hem (30): Nearly invisible hems.
  7. Overcast (31-32): Prevent fabric fraying.

Tip: Always test stitch on scrap fabric before sewing project.

Threading and Bobbin

Upper Threading:

  1. Raise presser foot and needle to highest position.
  2. Place spool on pin, follow threading guide numbers 1-6.
  3. Use automatic needle threader: Push lever down, hook thread, release.

Bobbin Winding:

  1. Place empty bobbin on winder, thread through tension disc.
  2. Hold thread end, press foot pedal to wind.
  3. Stop when bobbin is full, cut thread.

WARNING! Ensure machine is off when threading. Keep thread path clean.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Unplug machine before maintenance. Clean lint regularly.

  1. Remove needle plate: Use screwdriver to access bobbin area.
  2. Clean lint: Use brush to remove dust and thread bits.
  3. Oil machine: Apply 1-2 drops of sewing machine oil to moving parts (refer to diagram).
  4. Replace needle: Change needle after every project or if dull.

CAUTION! Use only Singer-recommended oil. Do not use compressed air.

Accessories

Included accessories:

Note: Use only Singer accessories for optimal performance.

Safety Information

Important safety precautions:

  1. Always unplug machine when not in use or during maintenance.
  2. Keep fingers away from moving needle.
  3. Do not sew over pins; remove before stitching.
  4. Use proper ventilation when cleaning.
  5. Keep machine dry; avoid water exposure.
  6. Store in cool, dry place away from children.

For support, visit www.singer.com or contact 1-800-4-SINGER.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Machine not runningPower connectionCheck power cord; ensure switch is on; test outlet.
Thread breakingTension/thread qualityRethread machine; adjust tension; use quality thread.
Uneven stitchesIncorrect threadingRethread upper and bobbin thread; check needle.
Fabric not feedingPresser foot pressureClean feed dogs; ensure presser foot is down.
Needle breakingBent needle/fabricReplace needle; avoid thick seams; use correct needle.
Bobbin issuesWinding/insertionRewind bobbin evenly; ensure correct insertion.
Noisy operationLint/oilClean and oil machine; check for loose parts.

Reset: Unplug machine for 5 minutes if electronic issues occur.

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

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