SINGER PROMISE 1408 Mechanical Sewing Machine User Manual

1. Introduction

Welcome to the user manual for your new SINGER PROMISE 1408 Mechanical Sewing Machine. This machine is designed for ease of use and reliability, making it ideal for both beginners and experienced sewers. It features 14 built-in stitch functions, including a 4-step buttonhole, to help you complete a wide range of sewing projects. Please read this manual thoroughly before operating your machine to ensure safe and efficient use.

2. Important Safety Instructions

When using an electrical appliance, basic safety precautions should always be followed, including the following:

• Always unplug the sewing machine from the electrical outlet immediately after using and before cleaning, removing covers, or making any user servicing adjustments.
• Do not allow to be used as a toy. Close attention is necessary when this appliance is used by or near children.
• Use this appliance only for its intended use as described in this manual. Use only attachments recommended by the manufacturer as contained in this manual.
• Never operate this appliance if it has a damaged cord or plug, if it is not working properly, if it has been dropped or damaged, or dropped into water.
• Never drop or insert any object into any opening.
• Do not use outdoors.
• Do not operate where aerosol (spray) products are being used or where oxygen is being administered.
• To disconnect, turn all controls to the off position, then remove plug from outlet.
• Keep fingers away from all moving parts. Special care is required around the sewing machine needle.
• Always use the proper needle plate. The wrong plate can cause the needle to break.
• Do not use bent needles.
• Do not pull or push fabric while stitching. It may deflect the needle causing it to break.
• Switch the sewing machine off when making any adjustments in the needle area, such as threading the needle, changing the needle, threading the bobbin, or changing the presser foot.

3. Parts Identification

Familiarize yourself with the main components of your SINGER PROMISE 1408 sewing machine.

Figure 3.1: Front view of the SINGER PROMISE 1408 Mechanical Sewing Machine, showing the main body, needle area, and stitch selection dial.

• Spool Pin
• Thread Guide
• Tension Dial
• Take-up Lever
• Needle Clamp Screw
• Needle
• Presser Foot
• Needle Plate
• Removable Extension Table / Accessory Storage
• Reverse Lever
• Stitch Selector Dial
• Handwheel
• Power Switch
• Foot Controller Jack

4. Setup

4.1 Power Connection

Connect the power cord to the machine and then to a suitable electrical outlet. Insert the foot controller plug into the machine's foot controller jack.

4.2 Winding the Bobbin

1. Place an empty bobbin onto the bobbin winder spindle.
2. Place a spool of thread on the spool pin.
3. Guide the thread through the upper thread guide and around the bobbin winding tension disc.
4. Wind the thread a few times manually around the bobbin.
5. Push the bobbin winder spindle to the right.
6. Press the foot controller to start winding. The bobbin will stop automatically when full.
7. Cut the thread and return the bobbin winder spindle to the left.

4.3 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 out the bobbin case opening. Close the bobbin cover plate.

4.4 Threading the Upper Thread

Figure 4.1: Detailed view of the upper thread path, showing the tension dial and guides.

1. Raise the presser foot lifter.
2. Place a spool of thread on the spool pin.
3. Guide the thread through the upper thread guide.
4. Bring the thread down through the right channel, around the tension dial, and up through the left channel.
5. Hook the thread into the take-up lever from right to left.
6. Bring the thread down through the thread guide above the needle.
7. Thread the needle from front to back.

Figure 4.2: Close-up of the needle area, illustrating the final steps of threading the needle.

5. Operating the Machine

5.1 Selecting a Stitch

The SINGER PROMISE 1408 offers 14 built-in stitch functions. To select a stitch, turn the Stitch Selector Dial to the desired stitch pattern. The dial clearly indicates various stitch types, including straight stitches, zigzag stitches, and decorative patterns.

Figure 5.1: The stitch selection dial, showing various stitch patterns available on the machine.

5.2 Adjusting Thread Tension

The thread tension dial controls the balance between the upper and lower threads. For most general sewing, a setting between 3 and 5 is suitable. Adjust as needed to achieve balanced stitches.

5.3 Sewing a Seam

1. Place the fabric under the presser foot.
2. Lower the presser foot lifter.
3. Turn the handwheel towards you to bring the needle down into the fabric.
4. Press the foot controller to begin sewing. Guide the fabric gently.
5. To secure the beginning and end of a seam, press and hold the Reverse Lever to sew in reverse for a few stitches.

5.4 Creating a 4-Step Buttonhole

Figure 5.2: The buttonhole foot in action, demonstrating its use for creating precise buttonholes.

The SINGER PROMISE 1408 features a 4-step buttonhole process. Refer to the markings on the stitch selector dial for each step (1, 2, 3, 4). You will need to use the specific buttonhole presser foot provided with your machine.

1. Attach the buttonhole foot.
2. Mark the buttonhole length on your fabric.
3. Set the stitch selector to the first buttonhole step (usually a zigzag stitch for the side).
4. Sew the first side of the buttonhole.
5. Change the stitch selector to the second step (bar tack).
6. Sew the bar tack.
7. Continue with steps 3 and 4 as indicated on the dial to complete the buttonhole.

6. Maintenance

6.1 Cleaning the Machine

Regular cleaning ensures smooth operation. Always unplug the machine before cleaning.

• Lint and Dust: Use a small brush to remove lint and dust from the bobbin area and feed dog teeth.
• Needle Plate: Remove the needle plate to access the feed dogs and clean thoroughly.
• Exterior: Wipe the exterior surfaces with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use harsh chemicals.

6.2 Lubrication

Your SINGER PROMISE 1408 is designed to require minimal lubrication. Refer to the specific oiling points indicated in the full service manual if lubrication is ever required. Over-oiling can attract lint and cause issues.

6.3 Needle Replacement

Replace the needle regularly, especially if it becomes bent, dull, or if you notice skipped stitches. Always use SINGER brand needles suitable for your machine and fabric type.

7. Troubleshooting

8. Specifications

• Model: SINGER PROMISE 1408
• Type: Mechanical Sewing Machine
• Stitch Functions: 14 (including 4-step buttonhole)
• Dimensions (L x W x H): 15.35 x 7.48 x 11.81 inches (39 x 19 x 30 cm)
• Weight: 11 pounds (5 kg)
• Color: White
• Power: Electric
• Manufacturer: Singer
• UPC: 374318830872

9. Warranty and Support

For warranty information and customer support, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Singer website. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase.

For additional assistance, you may contact Singer customer service through their official channels. Online resources, including FAQs and video tutorials, may also be available.

Note: This manual provides general operational and maintenance guidelines. For detailed service and repair, please contact an authorized service center.