singer sewing machines 15 manual

The Singer 15 is a classic, heavy-duty lockstitch sewing machine renowned for its durability and versatility. This manual covers the essential information for operating and maintaining your Singer 15, including threading, stitch adjustment, bobbin winding, troubleshooting common issues, and routine care. It is designed for both beginners and experienced sewers to achieve optimal performance.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Cast-iron body, oscillating hook, reverse stitch lever, tension dial, stitch length regulator, and built-in bobbin winder.

Parts Identification

Familiarize yourself with the main components of your Singer 15.

1. Balance Wheel (Handwheel): Controls needle movement; turns toward you.
2. Reverse Stitch Lever: Hold down to sew in reverse.
3. Stitch Length Regulator: Dial to set stitch length (higher number = longer stitch).
4. Tension Dial: Adjusts top thread tension (higher number = tighter tension).
5. Thread Guides: Path for thread from spool to needle.
6. Presser Foot & Lever: Holds fabric down; lever raises and lowers it.
7. Bobbin Case & Cover: Front-loading; houses the bobbin.
8. Needle Clamp Screw: Holds the needle in place.
9. Feed Dogs: Move fabric under the presser foot.
10. Bobbin Winder Spindle & Friction Disc: For winding bobbin on the machine.

WARNING! Keep fingers away from the needle and moving parts during operation.

Installation & Setup

Set up your machine on a stable, level surface.

1. Mounting: If using a treadle or cabinet, secure the machine with the lock screw.
2. Power Attachment: For electric motors, follow motor manufacturer's instructions to attach belt to handwheel.
3. Oil the Machine: Before first use, apply a drop of sewing machine oil to all points indicated in the oiling chart (see Maintenance).
4. Insert Needle: Loosen needle clamp screw, insert needle with flat side to the back, tighten screw firmly.
5. Install Bobbin: Wind bobbin (see Section 8), then insert into bobbin case with thread pulling counter-clockwise.

CAUTION! Ensure the machine is unplugged (if electric) during setup and oiling.

Specifications

• Model: Singer 15 (various sub-models: 15-91, 15-30, etc.)
• Stitch: Straight Lockstitch
• Stitch Length: Adjustable, up to 4 mm (approx. 6 stitches per inch)
• Maximum Sewing Speed: Dependent on drive system (treadle, motor)
• Presser Feet: Uses low shank feet (standard)
• Needle: 15x1 (HAx1), size 11-18 for various fabrics
• Bobbin: Class 15 metal bobbins
• Thread: All-purpose polyester, cotton, or silk thread
• Dimensions: Varies by table; head is approximately 14" long, 7" high
• Weight: ~25 lbs (11.3 kg)

Controls and Adjustments

Primary controls are located on the right side of the machine.

Stitch Length Regulator: Turn to set desired stitch length. For basting, use the longest setting. For fine fabrics, use a shorter setting.

Tension Dial: Adjust for balanced stitches. Correct tension shows threads locked in the middle of the fabric layers. Turn clockwise to increase (tighter), counter-clockwise to decrease (looser).

Presser Foot Pressure: Adjust via screw on top of the machine (if equipped). More pressure for thick fabrics, less for sheers.

Reverse Lever: Hold down to sew backwards for securing seams.

Threading the Machine

Correct threading is essential for proper operation.

1. Raise the needle to its highest position by turning the handwheel toward you.
2. Raise the presser foot lever to release tension discs.
3. Place thread spool on the spool pin.
4. Follow the numbered thread path: through first thread guide, around tension discs, through the take-up lever, down through lower guides, and finally through the needle eye from front to back.
5. Pull about 6 inches of thread under the presser foot toward the rear.

Tip: Always thread with the presser foot raised and needle at highest point.

Winding the Bobbin

Wind the bobbin before threading the needle.

1. Place the empty bobbin on the winder spindle.
2. Pull thread from the spool through the small guide near the winder.
3. Wrap thread around bobbin a few times by hand to secure.
4. Push the winder spindle to the right to engage with the friction disc (this disengages the needle mechanism).
5. Hold the thread end and start the machine (treadle, crank, or motor). The bobbin will wind automatically. Stop when full.
6. Push spindle back to the left, cut thread, and remove bobbin.

WARNING! Ensure needle mechanism is disengaged (spindle pushed right) to prevent needle movement while winding.

Basic Sewing Operations

Steps to begin sewing.

1. Prepare fabric and place under presser foot, lowering the presser foot lever.
2. Hold both thread tails (top and bobbin) behind the presser foot.
3. Start the machine slowly, guiding fabric gently with your hands.
4. To secure the end of a seam, hold the reverse lever to sew a few stitches backward, then forward again.
5. To finish, raise the needle to its highest position, raise the presser foot, and pull the fabric out to the rear. Cut threads, leaving a tail.
6. For pivoting corners, stop with needle down in the fabric, raise presser foot, turn fabric, lower presser foot, and continue sewing.

CAUTION! Do not pull fabric through the machine; let the feed dogs move it.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures longevity and smooth operation.

1. Daily Cleaning: Remove lint and dust from bobbin area, feed dogs, and needle plate using a small brush.
2. Oiling: Apply one drop of high-quality sewing machine oil to each oiling point (e.g., needle bar, presser foot bar, hook race) after every 8-10 hours of use. Wipe away excess oil.
3. Bobbin Case: Remove bobbin case periodically and clean lint from around the hook.
4. Needle Plate: Remove screws to lift needle plate for thorough cleaning underneath.

CAUTION! Use only sewing machine oil. Never use household oils. Unplug electric motor before maintenance.

Regulatory Information

The Singer 15 sewing machine is a mechanical device. For historical models, electrical components (if added) should comply with local safety standards. Singer is a registered trademark of The Singer Manufacturing Company (or its successors). This manual is for informational purposes. For specific model information or vintage parts, consult authorized dealers or specialized sewing machine technicians.

Troubleshooting

Reset: For persistent issues, completely re-thread both top and bobbin, insert a new needle, and adjust tension to medium (4).

Service: For mechanical repairs, consult a qualified sewing machine technician.