1. Introduction
This manual provides comprehensive instructions for the safe and efficient operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of your Singer Promise 1408 Automatic Zig-Zag Electric Sewing Machine. Please read this manual thoroughly before using the machine to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
Image 1: Front view of the Singer Promise 1408 Automatic Zig-Zag Electric Sewing Machine.
2. Safety Instructions
Always follow basic safety precautions when using electrical appliances to reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, or injury to persons.
- Ensure the machine is unplugged when not in use, when changing needles, or when performing maintenance.
- Keep fingers away from all moving parts. Special care is required around the sewing machine needle.
- Use the correct needle plate. The wrong plate can cause the needle to break.
- Do not pull or push fabric while stitching. This may deflect the needle, causing it to break.
- Use only accessories recommended by the manufacturer.
- Never operate the machine if it has a damaged cord or plug, if it is not working properly, or if it has been dropped or damaged.
3. Product Overview & Key Features
The Singer Promise 1408 is designed for ease of use and durability, featuring a heavy-duty metal frame and a variety of built-in stitches.
Image 2: Internal heavy-duty metal frame for enhanced durability.
Key Features:
- 8 Built-in Stitches: Includes 6 basic, 1 decorative, and 1 automatic 4-step buttonhole.
- Heavy Duty Metal Frame: Provides long-lasting durability and stability.
- Easy Threading: Straightforward threading path saves time.
- Automatic 4-Step Buttonhole: Guides you through every step for professional-looking results.
- Snap-on Presser Feet: Quick release for easy changing of presser feet.
- Accessory Storage: Convenient compartment for accessories.
- Inbuilt Thread Cutter: Located on the face cover for quick thread trimming.
- Bright White LED Light: Illuminates the sewing area for better visibility.
- Automatic Bobbin Winder: Simplifies bobbin preparation.
Image 3: Visual representation of the key features including LED light, thread cutter, and stitch speed.
Product Overview Video:
Video 1: A brief overview of the Singer Promise 1408 sewing machine's main features and benefits.
4. Setup Instructions
Follow these steps to prepare your sewing machine for use.
4.1 Unpacking and Placement
- Carefully remove the machine from its packaging.
- Place the machine on a stable, flat surface.
- Ensure adequate lighting and space for comfortable operation.
4.2 Power Connection
- Connect the foot controller plug to the machine's power socket.
- Plug the machine into a suitable electrical outlet.
- Turn on the power switch, usually located on the side or back of the machine.
4.3 Needle Installation
Refer to Video 2 (0:15-0:43) for a visual guide.
- Raise the needle to its highest position using the handwheel.
- Loosen the needle clamp screw.
- Insert the new needle with the flat side facing the back of the machine.
- Push the needle up as far as it will go.
- Tighten the needle clamp screw securely.
4.4 Bobbin Winding
Refer to Video 2 (1:03-1:51) for a visual guide.
Image 4: The automatic bobbin winder feature for easy bobbin preparation.
- Place a spool of thread on the spool pin.
- Guide the thread through the upper thread guide and around the bobbin winding tension disc.
- Insert the empty bobbin onto the bobbin winder spindle.
- Wind the thread clockwise a few times around the bobbin.
- Push the bobbin winder spindle to the right.
- Press the foot controller to start winding. The machine will stop automatically when the bobbin is full.
- Cut the thread and push the bobbin winder spindle back to the left.
4.5 Inserting the Bobbin
Refer to Video 2 (1:51-2:28) for a visual guide.
- Open the bobbin cover plate.
- Insert the 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 slot.
- Close the bobbin cover plate.
4.6 Upper Threading
Refer to Video 2 (2:30-3:06) for a visual guide.
- Raise the presser foot and the needle to its highest position.
- Place the thread spool on the spool pin.
- Guide the thread through the upper thread guide.
- Follow the numbered threading path indicated on the machine, ensuring the thread passes through the tension discs and the take-up lever.
- Thread the needle from front to back.
4.7 Bringing Up the Bobbin Thread
Refer to Video 2 (3:06-3:30) for a visual guide.
- Hold the upper thread lightly with your left hand.
- Turn the handwheel towards you to lower the needle, then raise it again.
- The upper thread will catch the bobbin thread, forming a loop.
- Pull the loop up through the needle plate opening.
- Pull both threads (upper and bobbin) under the presser foot and towards the back of the machine.
Detailed Setup and Threading Video:
Video 2: Step-by-step guide on needle installation, bobbin winding, threading, and basic sewing with the Singer Promise 1408.
5. Operating Instructions
Learn how to use the various functions of your sewing machine.
5.1 Stitch Selection
Refer to Video 2 (3:38-3:58) for a visual guide.
Image 5: Overview of the 21 unique stitch functions available on the machine.
The Singer Promise 1408 offers 8 built-in stitches. To select a stitch, simply turn the stitch selector dial to the desired stitch pattern. The dial displays various stitch types, including straight stitch, zig-zag stitch, and decorative stitches.
5.2 Stitch Length Adjustment
Refer to Video 2 (3:51-3:58) for a visual guide.
Adjust the stitch length using the stitch length dial, typically located on the top of the machine. Higher numbers generally indicate longer stitches, while lower numbers result in shorter, denser stitches.
5.3 Sewing
Refer to Video 2 (3:58-4:22) for a visual guide.
- Place the fabric under the presser foot.
- Lower the presser foot lever.
- Gently press the foot controller to start sewing.
- Guide the fabric smoothly, without forcing it.
5.4 Reverse Sewing
To secure the beginning and end of a seam, use the reverse lever or button. Press and hold the reverse control to sew backward, then release to resume forward stitching.
5.5 Automatic 4-Step Buttonhole
Image 6: Close-up of the automatic 4-step buttonhole process.
The machine features an automatic 4-step buttonhole function. Attach the buttonhole foot, select the buttonhole stitch on the dial, and follow the markings on the presser foot to create perfectly sized buttonholes in four easy steps.
6. Maintenance
Regular maintenance ensures your sewing machine remains in excellent working condition.
6.1 Cleaning
- Always unplug the machine before cleaning.
- Remove the needle, presser foot, and needle plate.
- Use a small brush to remove lint and dust from the feed dogs and bobbin area.
- Wipe the exterior of the machine with a soft, dry cloth.
6.2 Needle Replacement
Replace needles regularly, especially when they become dull or bent, to prevent skipped stitches and fabric damage. Refer to section 4.3 for detailed instructions on needle installation.
7. Troubleshooting
This section addresses common issues you might encounter.
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Skipped Stitches | Incorrect needle, bent needle, improper threading. | Replace needle, re-thread machine correctly. |
| Thread Breaking | Incorrect tension, poor quality thread, bent needle, improper threading. | Adjust tension, use quality thread, replace needle, re-thread. |
| Fabric Puckering | Incorrect tension, wrong needle size for fabric, too short stitch length. | Adjust tension, use appropriate needle, increase stitch length. |
| Machine Not Starting | Power not connected, foot controller not plugged in, bobbin winder engaged. | Check power connections, ensure bobbin winder is disengaged. |
8. Specifications
- Model: Promise 1408
- Built-in Stitches: 8 (6 Basic, 1 Decorative, 1 Automatic 4-Step Buttonhole)
- Sewing Speed: 800 Stitches Per Minute (SPM)
- Frame: Heavy Duty Metal Frame
- Lighting: Bright White LED Light
- Thread Tension Adjustment: Yes
- Accessory Storage: Yes
- Item Weight: 5 kg 950 g
- Item Dimensions (LxWxH): 42.3 x 35.4 x 22.8 Centimeters
- Manufacturer: Singer India Limited
- Country of Origin: India
9. Accessories
Your Singer Promise 1408 machine comes with a comprehensive accessory kit to enhance your sewing experience.
Image 7: Contents of the accessory kit included with Model 1408.
Included Components:
- Sewing Machine
- Accessories Box
- Foot Paddle
- User Manual cum Warranty Card
- Button Sewing Foot
- Zipper Foot
- Picot Foot
- Buttonhole Foot
- Spool Pin Felt
- 3 Bobbins
- Pack of 3 Needles
- L-Screwdriver
- Darning / Embroidery Plate
- Seam Ripper / Lint Brush
- Edge / Quilting Guide
10. Warranty and Support
Your Singer Promise 1408 sewing machine comes with a warranty. Please refer to the included warranty card for specific terms and conditions.
Free Home Demo & Online Sewing Session:
Register your purchase details on the Singer website for a free home demo. You can also get a free 1-month online sewing session upon purchase.
Image 8: Contact information for Singer Live Assist for free home and online demos.
For assistance, contact Singer India Limited Customer Care:
- Toll-Free Number: 1800-103-3474
- SMS your details to: 9555 390390
