Introduction
Welcome to the user manual for your SINGER 3116 Simple 18 Stitch Sewing Machine. This machine is designed for ease of use, making it ideal for new sewers while offering features that enhance your sewing experience. It includes 18 built-in stitches, an automatic needle threader, and a fully automatic one-step buttonhole. Please read this manual thoroughly before operating your machine to ensure safe and efficient use.
Figure 1: SINGER 3116 Simple 18 Stitch Sewing Machine. This image displays the front view of the sewing machine, highlighting its compact design and stitch selection dial.
Setup
1. Unpacking and Placement
Carefully remove the machine from its packaging. Place the machine on a stable, flat surface. Ensure there is adequate lighting and space for your sewing projects.
2. Power Connection
- Insert the machine plug into the machine's power socket.
- Connect the power cord to a suitable electrical outlet.
- The machine is designed for corded electric operation.
3. Winding the Bobbin
- Place a spool of thread on the spool pin.
- Guide the thread through the upper thread guide and around the bobbin winding tension disc.
- Place an empty Class 15 bobbin onto the bobbin winder spindle.
- Wind the thread a few times manually around the bobbin.
- Push the bobbin winder spindle to the right.
- Press the foot controller gently to start winding. The machine will stop automatically when the bobbin is full.
- Cut the thread and return the bobbin winder spindle to the left.
4. Inserting the Bobbin
- Open the bobbin cover plate.
- Insert the wound bobbin into the bobbin case, ensuring the thread unwinds in the correct direction (usually counter-clockwise).
- Guide the thread through the tension spring and into the thread guide.
- Close the bobbin cover plate.
5. Threading the Upper Thread
- Raise the needle to its highest position using the handwheel.
- Place a spool of thread on the spool pin.
- Guide the thread through the upper thread guide.
- Bring the thread down through the right threading channel.
- Loop the thread up through the left threading channel and over the take-up lever.
- Bring the thread down through the needle bar thread guide.
- Use the automatic needle threader (refer to the "Automatic Needle Threader" section for detailed instructions) or manually thread the needle from front to back.
- Pull about 6 inches of thread through the needle eye.
Operating Instructions
1. Stitch Selection
Turn the stitch selector dial to choose one of the 18 built-in stitches. The machine offers basic, stretch, and decorative stitches. Refer to the stitch chart on the machine for visual guidance.
2. Basic Sewing
- Place your fabric under the presser foot.
- Lower the presser foot lever.
- Gently press the foot controller to start sewing. The sewing speed is controlled by the pressure applied to the foot controller.
- To reverse stitch, press and hold the reverse lever/button.
- When finished, raise the needle to its highest position, lift the presser foot, and remove the fabric. Cut the threads using the thread cutter.
3. Automatic Needle Threader
The automatic needle threader simplifies threading the needle. Ensure the needle is in its highest position. Lower the threader mechanism, hook the thread, and release. The thread will be pulled through the needle eye.
4. One-Step Buttonhole
- Attach the one-step buttonhole foot.
- Place the button you intend to use into the buttonhole foot's holder.
- Select the buttonhole stitch on the dial.
- Lower the presser foot and begin sewing. The machine will automatically sew the buttonhole to the correct size.
Maintenance
1. Cleaning the Machine
- Always unplug the machine before cleaning.
- Remove the needle plate and bobbin case.
- Use the small brush provided (or a soft brush) to remove lint and dust from the feed dogs and bobbin area.
- Wipe the exterior of the machine with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use liquid cleaners.
2. Needle Replacement
- Replace the needle regularly, especially if it becomes bent, dull, or if you notice skipped stitches.
- Loosen the needle clamp screw, remove the old needle, and insert a new one with the flat side facing the back of the machine.
- Tighten the needle clamp screw securely.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Machine not starting | Power cord not connected; machine switched off. | Ensure power cord is securely plugged in; turn on the power switch. |
| Skipped stitches | Incorrect needle; bent needle; improper threading. | Replace needle with the correct type and size; re-thread the machine correctly. |
| Thread breaking | Improper threading; tension too tight; poor quality thread; bent needle. | Re-thread machine; adjust tension; use good quality thread; replace needle. |
| Fabric not feeding | Feed dogs lowered; lint accumulation. | Raise feed dogs; clean feed dog area. |
| Looped stitches (bottom) | Upper thread not correctly threaded through tension discs. | Re-thread the upper thread, ensuring it is seated correctly in the tension discs with the presser foot raised. |
Specifications
- Model: SINGER 3116CL Simple
- Stitch Count: 18 Built-in Stitches (Basic, Stretch, Decorative)
- Buttonhole Type: 1-Step (Unistyle)
- Bobbin Class: 15
- Thread Delivery: Horizontal
- Adjustable Pressure: Yes
- Accessory Storage: Built-in
- Product Dimensions: 18.2 x 10.5 x 13.8 inches
- Item Weight: 3 pounds
- Power Source: Corded Electric
- Material: Plastic
- Color: White
- UPC: 037431881069
Warranty and Support
For specific warranty information, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official SINGER website. For technical support, replacement parts, or service inquiries, please contact SINGER customer service. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase for warranty claims.
Manufacturer: Singer
