Singer Simple Model 3116 Manual

The Singer Simple Model 3116 is a lightweight, easy-to-use sewing machine designed for beginners and basic sewing tasks. It features 6 built-in stitches, a 4-step buttonhole, automatic bobbin winding, adjustable stitch length and width, built-in thread cutter, and a free arm for sewing cuffs and sleeves. Powered by a standard household electrical outlet. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Sewing machine head, Foot pedal, Power cord, Accessory box (presser feet, bobbins, needles, seam ripper, spool caps), Instruction manual.

Unpacking and Setup

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

1. Remove machine from box: Lift by the carrying handle, not by the free arm.
2. Attach accessory tray: Slide onto the front of the machine until it clicks into place.
3. Connect foot pedal: Plug into the port on the right side of the machine.
4. Connect power: Plug power cord into machine and then into a standard 120V AC outlet.
5. Install needle and presser foot: Refer to First-Time Operation section.

WARNING! Keep hands away from needle area during setup and operation. Ensure machine is unplugged during initial assembly.

First-Time Operation

Plug in power, turn on power switch (if present), and follow these steps.

1. Wind the bobbin: Place thread on spool pin, guide thread through bobbin winder tension disc, place empty bobbin on winder shaft, push shaft to right, press foot pedal.
2. Insert bobbin: Open bobbin cover, drop bobbin in with thread unwinding counterclockwise, pull thread through slot and under tension spring.
3. Thread the upper thread: Follow numbered guides on machine from spool pin to needle.
4. Raise presser foot and turn handwheel toward you to bring up bobbin thread.
5. Select stitch: Turn stitch selection dial to desired pattern.
6. Test sew on scrap fabric.

CAUTION! Always turn handwheel toward you (counterclockwise) only. Never sew without fabric under the presser foot.

Specifications

• Model: Singer Simple 3116.
• Stitches: 6 Built-in.
• Buttonhole: 4-Step Manual.
• Stitch Length: Adjustable up to 4mm.
• Stitch Width: Adjustable up to 5mm.
• Speed: Up to 750 stitches per minute.
• Presser Feet: All-purpose foot, buttonhole foot, zipper foot included.
• Needle: Standard domestic sewing machine needle (HAx1).
• Bobbin: Class 15 transparent bobbin.
• Power Source: 120V AC, 60Hz.
• Weight: Approximately 13.2 lbs (6 kg).

Controls and Functions

Main controls are located on the right side of the machine body.

Stitch Selector Dial: Turn to choose from 6 stitch icons. Stitch Length Dial: Adjusts from 0 (for buttonholes) to 4. Stitch Width Dial: Adjusts zigzag and decorative stitch width from 0 to 5. Reverse Stitch Lever: Press and hold to sew in reverse. Handwheel: Manual control of needle position (turn toward you only). Bobbin Winder Shaft/Stop: For winding bobbin. Drop Feed Dogs Lever: Lowers feed dogs. Presser Foot Lifter: Raises and lowers presser foot.

Stitch Selection Guide

Use the stitch selector dial to choose the appropriate pattern for your project.

1. Straight Stitch (Position 1): For seams, topstitching, basting. Use stitch length 2-2.5 for general sewing.
2. Zigzag Stitch (Position 2-3): For finishing edges, sewing stretch fabrics, appliqué. Adjust width as needed.
3. Decorative Stitches (Position 4-6): For embellishment. Test on scrap fabric first.
4. Buttonhole (Marked separately): Uses a 4-step process with the buttonhole foot.

Tip: Always lower the presser foot before starting to sew. The machine may not form stitches correctly if the foot is up.

Threading the Machine

Correct threading is essential for proper stitch formation.

1. Raise presser foot and needle to highest position using handwheel.
2. Place thread spool on spool pin.
3. Follow the numbered threading path on the machine:
   1. Guide thread into the first thread guide at the top.
   2. Pull down through the tension assembly.
   3. Pull up into the take-up lever.
   4. Guide down through remaining guides.
   5. Thread needle from front to back.
4. Pull about 4-6 inches of thread toward the back of the machine.

WARNING! Ensure presser foot is raised when threading through the tension discs, otherwise the thread will not seat properly.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Unplug machine before any maintenance.

1. Cleaning: Use the small brush provided to remove lint from the feed dogs, bobbin area, and needle plate. Do not use compressed air.
2. Oiling: This model is designed for minimal oiling. Refer to manual for specific oiling points if necessary. Use only sewing machine oil.
3. Needle Replacement: Turn handwheel to raise needle to highest position. Loosen needle clamp screw, remove old needle, insert new needle with flat side to the back, tighten screw.
4. Storage: Cover machine when not in use to prevent dust accumulation.

CAUTION! Never use household oils or solvents. Do not immerse machine in water.

Safety Information

Always operate the sewing machine with care to prevent injury.

• Disconnect power plug from outlet when making adjustments, changing needles, or cleaning.
• Do not operate with damaged cord or plug.
• Keep fingers away from moving parts, especially the needle area.
• Do not use bent or damaged needles.
• Always use the proper presser foot for the stitch selected.
• This appliance is not intended for use by persons with reduced physical, sensory or mental capabilities.

Warranty & Support

Singer Simple Model 3116 comes with a limited 25-year warranty. Warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal household use. For service, contact an authorized Singer service center. For support, visit www.singer.com or contact Singer Customer Service at 1-800-4-SINGER.

Troubleshooting

Reset: Unplug machine for 2 minutes to reset electronic components (if applicable).

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