1. Introduction
This manual provides essential instructions for the safe and efficient operation of your SINGER Start 1306 Sewing Machine. Please read it thoroughly before using the machine to ensure proper setup, usage, and maintenance. The SINGER Start 1306 is designed for home sewing projects, featuring 6 built-in stitches, easy threading, and a 4-step buttonhole function.
Image 1.1: Front view of the SINGER Start 1306 Sewing Machine.
2. Safety Information
Always follow basic safety precautions when using electrical appliances to reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, or injury.
- Read all instructions before using the machine.
- Keep the machine away from water or wet surfaces.
- Unplug the machine from the electrical outlet when not in use, when servicing, or when changing accessories.
- 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.
- Keep fingers away from all moving parts. Special care is required around the sewing machine needle.
- Use only accessories recommended by the manufacturer.
- Never drop or insert any object into any opening.
3. Setup
3.1 Unpacking and Contents
Carefully remove the machine from its packaging. Retain all packaging materials for future transport or storage. Verify that all included components are present:
- All-Purpose Foot
- Zipper Foot
- Buttonhole Foot
- Darning Plate
- Pack of Needles
- Bobbins
- Spool Pin Felts
- Needle Plate Screwdriver
- Seam Ripper / Lint Brush
- Vinyl Dust Cover
Image 3.1: Included accessories and instruction manual.
3.2 Power Connection
Connect the power cord to the machine's power input socket and then plug it into a suitable electrical outlet (220V). Ensure the machine is switched off before connecting to power.
Image 3.2: Rear view showing power input and foot pedal connection.
3.3 Threading the Machine
Correct threading is crucial for proper stitch formation.
3.3.1 Bobbin Winding
- Place a spool of thread on the spool pin.
- Guide the thread through the upper thread guide.
- Wrap the thread clockwise around the bobbin winding tension disc.
- Insert the thread through the small hole in the bobbin from the inside out.
- Place the bobbin onto the bobbin winder spindle and push the spindle to the right.
- Hold the thread end and press the foot pedal. Wind a few turns, then trim the excess thread.
- Continue winding until the bobbin is full. The winder will stop automatically.
- Push the bobbin winder spindle to the left and remove the bobbin.
3.3.2 Inserting the Bobbin
- Open the bobbin cover plate.
- Insert the wound bobbin into the bobbin case with the thread unwinding counter-clockwise.
- Guide the thread into the tension spring slot and pull it firmly until it snaps into place.
- Close the bobbin cover plate.
3.3.3 Upper Threading
- Raise the needle to its highest position using the handwheel.
- Raise the presser foot lifter.
- Place a spool of thread on the spool pin.
- Guide the thread through the upper thread guide.
- Bring the thread down through the right channel, then up through the left channel, ensuring it passes through the take-up lever.
- Thread the needle from front to back.
Image 3.3: Illustration of the upper threading path.
3.4 Needle Installation
To install or replace a needle:
- Turn the handwheel to raise the needle to its highest position.
- Loosen the needle clamp screw.
- Remove the old needle.
- Insert the new needle with the flat side facing the back of the machine. Push it up as far as it will go.
- Tighten the needle clamp screw securely.
Image 3.4: Close-up of the needle and presser foot area.
4. Operating Instructions
4.1 Stitch Selection
The SINGER Start 1306 offers 6 built-in stitch patterns. Turn the stitch selector dial to choose your desired stitch. The available stitches include 4 basic, 1 decorative, and 1 buttonhole stitch.
Image 4.1: Stitch selector dial with various stitch patterns.
4.2 Sewing Basics
4.2.1 Starting a Seam
- Place the fabric under the presser foot, aligning the edge with a seam guide on the needle plate.
- Lower the presser foot.
- Turn the handwheel to lower the needle into the fabric at the starting point.
- Press the foot pedal gently to begin sewing.
4.2.2 Finishing a Seam
- Sew to the end of your seam.
- Press the reverse stitch lever to sew a few stitches backward to secure the seam.
- Raise the needle to its highest position.
- Raise the presser foot.
- Pull the fabric away from the machine, then cut the threads using the thread cutter on the machine.
4.3 4-Step Buttonhole Function
The machine features a 4-step buttonhole function for creating buttonholes. Refer to the markings on the stitch selector dial for each step (1, 2, 3, 4). Use the buttonhole foot for best results.
4.4 Zipper Insertion
Attach the zipper foot to the machine. This foot allows you to sew close to the zipper teeth, ensuring a neat finish. Follow standard zipper insertion techniques, adjusting the needle position as needed.
4.5 Free Arm Usage
The removable free arm provides access to difficult-to-reach areas such as collars, sleeves, cuffs, and pant hems. To use, slide off the accessory storage compartment to expose the free arm.
5. Maintenance
5.1 Cleaning
Regular cleaning helps maintain machine performance. Always unplug the machine before cleaning.
- Lint Removal: Use the provided lint brush to remove lint and dust from the bobbin area and feed dogs.
- Exterior Cleaning: Wipe the exterior surfaces with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
5.2 Needle Replacement
Replace needles regularly, especially when sewing different fabric types or if the needle becomes bent or dull. A damaged needle can cause skipped stitches or fabric damage. Refer to section 3.4 for needle installation instructions.
6. Troubleshooting
This section addresses common issues you might encounter. For problems not listed here, contact customer support.
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Skipped Stitches | Incorrect needle, bent needle, improper threading. | Replace needle, re-thread machine, ensure correct needle type for fabric. |
| Thread Breaking | Incorrect threading, tension too tight, damaged needle, poor quality thread. | Re-thread, adjust tension, replace needle, use good quality thread. |
| Bobbin Thread Jamming | Improperly wound bobbin, incorrect bobbin insertion, lint in bobbin case. | Re-wind bobbin, re-insert bobbin correctly, clean bobbin area. |
| Machine Not Starting | Power cord not connected, machine switched off, foot pedal not connected. | Check power connections, ensure switch is ON, connect foot pedal. |
7. Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Brand | SINGER |
| Model Number | Start 1306 |
| Item Weight | 4.3 kg |
| Product Dimensions (LxWxH) | 35 x 18 x 29 cm |
| Voltage | 220V |
| Wattage | 70 Watts |
| Built-in Stitches | 6 (4 basic, 1 decorative, 1 buttonhole) |
| Buttonhole Type | 4-step automatic |
| Frame Material | Heavy Duty Metal |
| Included Components | All Purpose Foot, Zipper Foot, Buttonhole Foot, Darning Plate, Pack of Needles, Bobbins, Spool Pin Felts, Needle Plate Screwdriver, Seam Ripper / Lint Brush, Vinyl Dust Cover |
Image 7.1: Product dimensions of the SINGER Start 1306 Sewing Machine.
8. Warranty and Support
Your SINGER Start 1306 Sewing Machine comes with a manufacturer's warranty. Please refer to the warranty card included with your product for specific terms, conditions, and duration. For technical assistance, service, or to inquire about replacement parts, please contact SINGER customer support through their official website or the contact information provided in your warranty documentation.
