Singer SM204 Sewing Machine Threading Manual

The Singer SM204 is a versatile mechanical sewing machine designed for home use, featuring a top drop-in bobbin, built-in stitches, adjustable stitch length and width, and a front-loading bobbin case. Proper threading is essential for optimal stitch quality and machine performance. Below are key sections for safety, threading steps, bobbin winding, needle insertion, tension adjustment, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Thread guides, tension discs, take-up lever, needle clamp, bobbin winder, stitch selector, and reverse lever.

Safety Precautions

Always follow safety guidelines to prevent injury or machine damage.

1. Unplug the machine before changing needles, bobbins, or performing maintenance.
2. Keep fingers away from moving parts, especially the needle area.
3. Use the correct needle type and size for your fabric.
4. Do not pull or push fabric forcefully; let the feed dogs move it.
5. Ensure the presser foot is lowered before sewing.

WARNING! Never operate the machine with damaged power cord or plug. Keep hair and loose clothing away from moving parts.

Threading the Upper Thread

Correct upper threading ensures proper stitch formation.

1. Raise the presser foot and needle to highest position using handwheel.
2. Place spool on spool pin; secure with cap if provided.
3. Follow numbered guides: Pull thread to the right through first guide.
4. Pull thread down and around tension discs (between discs).
5. Pull thread up through take-up lever from right to left.
6. Follow remaining guides down to needle.
7. Thread needle from front to back using needle threader or manually.
8. Pull about 4-6 inches of thread toward the back under presser foot.

CAUTION! Ensure thread passes smoothly through all guides without snagging.

Winding the Bobbin

Use the built-in bobbin winder for consistent bobbin tension.

1. Place empty bobbin on winder spindle; push to the right.
2. Place thread spool on spool pin; thread through bobbin winding tension guide.
3. Wrap thread end clockwise around bobbin 3-4 times; secure end.
4. Press foot controller; wind until bobbin is full (auto-stop on some models).
5. Cut thread; push spindle left to remove bobbin.

Tip: Do not overfill bobbin; thread should be below rim.

Inserting the Bobbin

• Bobbin Type: Class 15 transparent bobbin.
• Direction: Thread should unwind counterclockwise when placed in case.
• Steps:
  1. Open bobbin cover plate; remove bobbin case if necessary.
  2. Hold bobbin with thread unwinding counterclockwise; place in case.
  3. Pull thread through slot and under tension spring; leave 4-inch tail.
  4. Insert bobbin case into machine; listen for click to secure.
  5. Close cover plate.

Needle Installation

Use Singer system 130/705 needles (size 11/80 to 16/100).

1. Turn handwheel to raise needle to highest position.
2. Loosen needle clamp screw with screwdriver.
3. Insert needle with flat side toward back; push up until it stops.
4. Tighten screw firmly.
5. Check needle is straight and secure.

WARNING! Always replace bent or dull needles immediately to prevent skipped stitches or damage.

Thread Tension Adjustment

Balanced tension produces even stitches on both sides of fabric.

Upper Tension Dial: Numbered 0-9; higher numbers increase tension. Default setting is 4.

Bobbin Tension: Adjusted via screw on bobbin case (factory set; avoid frequent changes).

Test: Sew on two layers of fabric; check both sides. If upper thread loops underneath, increase upper tension. If bobbin thread loops on top, decrease upper tension.

Needle Threader Usage

Built-in needle threader simplifies threading.

1. Raise needle to highest position using handwheel.
2. Lower needle threader lever fully down.
3. Hook thread around guide; release lever slowly.
4. Pull loop through needle eye; remove thread from hook.
5. Pull thread tails toward back.

CAUTION! Ensure needle is fully raised before using threader to avoid damage.

Care & Maintenance

Regular cleaning ensures longevity and performance.

1. Unplug machine before cleaning.
2. Remove needle plate and bobbin case; use brush to remove lint.
3. Oil moving parts per manual instructions (use sewing machine oil only).
4. Wipe exterior with dry cloth; avoid liquids.
5. Cover machine when not in use to prevent dust accumulation.

CAUTION! Do not use compressed air; it can force lint deeper into machine.

Regulatory Information

UL Listed: Complies with safety standards for household sewing machines. Copyright © 2025 Singer Manufacturing Company. Trademarks owned by Singer. For support, visit www.singer.com or contact 1-800-4-SINGER. Model SM204 is designed for 120V AC, 60Hz operation.

Troubleshooting

Reset: Unplug for 2 minutes; rethread completely if issues persist.

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