Singer Simple Sewing Machine Manual 3116

The Singer Simple 3116 is a mechanical, free-arm sewing machine designed for beginners and everyday sewing projects. It features 6 built-in stitches (straight, zigzag, blind hem, scallop, and two decorative stitches), a 4-step buttonhole, adjustable stitch length and width, built-in needle threader, top drop-in bobbin system, and reverse sewing. Powered by a foot pedal with speed control. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Free-arm sewing machine, Foot pedal, Power cord, Accessory box (bobbins, needles, seam ripper, brush, screwdriver), Spool pin, Thread guide, Tension dial, Stitch selector, Reverse lever, Handwheel.

Unpacking & Setup

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

1. Remove all packaging materials from machine and accessories.
2. Attach foot pedal: Connect pedal to machine port, then plug power cord into wall outlet.
3. Install needle: Loosen needle clamp screw, insert needle with flat side to the back, tighten screw.
4. Wind bobbin: Place thread on spool pin, follow thread guide path to bobbin winder, press bobbin onto winder shaft, and engage bobbin winding mechanism.
5. Insert bobbin: Open bobbin cover, drop bobbin into case with thread unwinding counterclockwise, pull thread through slot and under tension spring.

WARNING! Keep fingers away from needle area during setup and operation. Ensure machine is unplugged during needle/bobbin installation.

First-Time Operation

Plug in power cord, turn handwheel toward you to raise needle to highest position.

1. Thread upper thread: Follow numbered threading path on machine; use built-in needle threader for final step.
2. Pull up bobbin thread: Hold upper thread end, turn handwheel one full rotation to bring bobbin thread up through needle plate.
3. Select stitch: Turn stitch selector dial to desired stitch pattern (e.g., straight stitch).
4. Adjust settings: Set stitch length (0-4) and width (0-5) as needed.
5. Test sew: Place fabric under presser foot, lower foot lever, and gently press foot pedal to start sewing.

CAUTION! Always start with needle at highest position. Never pull fabric while sewing; let feed dogs move it.

Specifications

• Model: Singer Simple 3116
• Type: Mechanical, Free-Arm
• Stitches: 6 Built-in stitches
• Buttonhole: 4-Step manual
• Stitch Length: Adjustable up to 4mm
• Stitch Width: Adjustable up to 5mm
• Bobbin: Top drop-in, Class 15 transparent
• Needle: Standard domestic needle, size 75/11 to 90/14
• Max Sewing Speed: 750 stitches per minute
• Power Supply: 120V AC, 60Hz (US/Canada)
• Dimensions: Compact design with free arm
• Weight: Lightweight for portability

Controls and Functions

Main Controls: Stitch selector dial, Stitch length dial, Stitch width dial, Reverse lever, Handwheel, Tension dial (2-6 range), Presser foot lever, Built-in needle threader.

Stitch Guide: Straight (1), Zigzag (2), Blind Hem (3), Scallop (4), Decorative 1 (5), Decorative 2 (6). Buttonhole: Steps 1-4 marked on stitch selector.

Tension: Normal setting is 4; adjust for different fabrics (lower for lightweight, higher for heavyweight). Presser Feet: Includes all-purpose foot; snap-on system for easy change.

Basic Stitching

Straight Stitch: Use for seams, topstitching. Zigzag: Use for finishing edges, stretch fabrics.

1. Select stitch: Turn dial to straight (1) or zigzag (2).
2. Set length/width: Straight stitch length 2.5mm; zigzag width 3mm.
3. Position fabric: Align edge with seam guide on needle plate.
4. Lower presser foot.
5. Start sewing: Press foot pedal gently; guide fabric without pulling.
6. Reverse: Hold reverse lever at start and end to lock stitches.
7. Cut threads: Use thread cutter on faceplate or scissors.

Tip: Practice on scrap fabric first. Always lower presser foot before sewing.

Advanced Functions

4-Step Buttonhole:

1. Step 1 (Right side): Set stitch selector to buttonhole step 1; sew right side of buttonhole.
2. Step 2 (Bartack): Turn dial to step 2; sew few stitches to form bartack.
3. Step 3 (Left side): Turn to step 3; sew left side.
4. Step 4 (Bartack): Turn to step 4; sew final bartack.

Blind Hem: For nearly invisible hems on garments. Scallop/Decorative Stitches: For embellishments. Free Arm: Remove accessory tray to access free arm for sewing sleeves and cuffs.

WARNING! Go slowly on buttonholes. Ensure fabric is stabilized.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Unplug machine before maintenance. Clean lint and dust regularly.

1. Remove needle plate: Use screwdriver to loosen screws, lift plate.
2. Clean feed dogs and bobbin area: Use small brush to remove lint.
3. Oil machine: Apply 1-2 drops of sewing machine oil to moving parts as indicated in manual (do not over-oil).
4. Replace needle: Change needle after every project or if dull/bent.
5. Cover machine when not in use to prevent dust accumulation.

CAUTION! Use only sewing machine oil. Never use household oils. Do not immerse machine in water.

Regulatory Information

FCC Compliance: This device complies with Part 15 of FCC Rules. Copyright © Singer Manufacturing Company. Trademarks owned by Singer. For support, visit www.singer.com or contact 1-800-4-SINGER. Model 3116 is designed for household use only.

Troubleshooting

Reset: Unplug machine, wait 30 seconds, rethread completely, test on scrap fabric.

Service: 1-800-4-SINGER; www.singer.com for authorized service centers.