Introduction
Welcome to the world of sewing with your new Cra-Z-Art Sew Crazy Sewing Machine! This manual provides essential information for the safe and proper use of your sewing machine. Please read all instructions carefully before operating the machine to ensure a fun and creative experience.
Safety Information
- Adult Supervision Required: This sewing machine is intended for use by children under adult supervision.
- Sharp Needle: The machine contains a sharp needle. Always exercise caution and keep fingers away from the needle area during operation.
- Small Parts: This product contains small parts which may pose a choking hazard for young children. Keep out of reach of children under 3 years.
- Power Source: Use only the recommended power source (batteries or appropriate adapter if included). Do not mix old and new batteries.
- Unplug When Not in Use: Always turn off the machine and disconnect the power source when not in use, during cleaning, or when changing parts.
Package Contents
Please check that all items listed below are included in your package:
- Sewing Machine
- Foot Pedal
- Fabric pieces
- Patterns
- Sewing Case with Extra Bobbins, Threads, and Needle
- Instruction Manual
Product Overview
Familiarize yourself with the different parts of your Sew Crazy Sewing Machine:

- Tension Dial: Adjusts the tightness of the upper thread.
- Thread Cutter: A convenient notch for cutting threads after sewing.
- Protective Needle Guard: A clear shield to help prevent accidental contact with the needle.
- Bobbin Cover Plate: Covers the lower bobbin compartment.
- Hand Wheel: Manually raises and lowers the needle.
- On/Off Switch: Powers the machine on or off.
- 2-Speed Button: Selects between low (L) and high (H) sewing speeds.
- Foot Pedal: Provides hands-free control over the sewing speed.
Setup
1. Battery Installation
The Sew Crazy Sewing Machine can be powered by batteries. Locate the battery compartment on the underside of the machine. Insert 4 "AA" batteries (not included), ensuring correct polarity. Close the battery compartment securely.
2. Connecting the Foot Pedal
Plug the foot pedal cable into the designated port on the side of the sewing machine. The machine can be operated with or without the foot pedal.
3. Winding the Bobbin
- Place a spool of thread onto the spool pin.
- Guide the thread through the tension disc.
- Place an empty bobbin onto the bobbin winder spindle.
- Wrap the thread around the bobbin a few times, then push the bobbin winder spindle to the right.
- Turn on the machine and press the foot pedal or speed button to wind the bobbin. Stop when the bobbin is full.
- Cut the thread and remove the wound bobbin.
4. Threading the Machine (Upper Thread)
- Ensure the needle is in its highest position by turning the hand wheel towards you.
- Place a spool of thread onto the spool pin.
- Follow the numbered threading path indicated on the machine, guiding the thread through all guides and the tension dial.
- Thread the needle from front to back. Pull about 6 inches of thread through the needle eye.
5. Inserting the Bobbin (Lower Thread)
- Open the bobbin cover plate.
- Insert the wound bobbin into the bobbin case, ensuring the thread unwinds in the correct direction (usually counter-clockwise).
- Pull the bobbin thread through the tension spring in the bobbin case.
- Hold the upper thread lightly and turn the hand wheel towards you to lower and raise the needle. The needle will catch the bobbin thread, bringing it up through the needle plate.
- Pull both upper and lower threads under the presser foot and towards the back of the machine.
- Close the bobbin cover plate.
Operating Instructions

1. Turning On/Off
Use the On/Off switch located on the side of the machine to power it on or off.
2. Selecting Speed
Press the 2-Speed button to toggle between Low (L) and High (H) sewing speeds. Start with Low speed for better control, especially for beginners.
3. Starting to Sew
- Place your fabric under the presser foot, aligning the edge with the desired seam allowance.
- Lower the presser foot using the lever on the back of the needle bar.
- To start sewing, gently press the foot pedal or press the 2-Speed button if not using the pedal.
- Guide the fabric gently with both hands, keeping it flat. Do not pull or push the fabric forcefully.
4. Finishing a Seam
- When you reach the end of your seam, stop sewing by releasing the foot pedal or pressing the 2-Speed button again.
- Turn the hand wheel towards you to raise the needle to its highest position.
- Raise the presser foot.
- Pull the fabric gently towards the back of the machine.
- Use the built-in thread cutter or scissors to cut both the upper and lower threads, leaving about 3-4 inches of tail.
5. Adjusting Tension
The tension dial controls the balance between the upper and lower threads. If stitches are too loose or too tight, adjust the dial slightly. A balanced stitch will look the same on both sides of the fabric.

Maintenance
1. Cleaning the Machine
Regularly clean lint and dust from the bobbin area and around the needle plate using a small brush or soft cloth. Ensure the machine is turned off and unplugged before cleaning.
2. Changing the Needle
If the needle becomes bent, dull, or breaks, it needs to be replaced. Turn off the machine, loosen the needle clamp screw, remove the old needle, and insert a new one with the flat side facing the back. Tighten the screw securely.
3. Storage
When not in use, store the sewing machine in a clean, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. It is recommended to cover the machine to protect it from dust.
Troubleshooting
- Machine Not Sewing:
- Check if the On/Off switch is in the 'ON' position.
- Ensure batteries are correctly installed and not depleted.
- Verify that the foot pedal is securely plugged in (if using).
- Confirm that the machine is properly threaded, both upper and lower threads.
- Skipped Stitches:
- Ensure the needle is inserted correctly and is not bent or dull. Replace if necessary.
- Re-thread the machine completely, paying close attention to the tension dial.
- Thread Breaking:
- Check the tension dial; it might be too tight.
- Ensure the thread is not snagging on the spool or any part of the threading path.
- Use good quality thread.
- Machine Runs by Itself:
- Ensure the On/Off switch is in the 'OFF' position when not in active use.
- If the issue persists, disconnect the power source (remove batteries or unplug adapter) and contact customer support.
- Missing Foot Pedal:
- Refer to the 'Package Contents' section. If the foot pedal was not included, contact customer support for assistance.
Specifications
- Brand: Cra-Z-Art
- Model Number: 17524
- Product Dimensions: 4"D x 16"W x 12"H
- Item Weight: 16 ounces
- Power Source: Battery Powered, Corded Electric (Batteries not included)
- Material: Metal (as per product specifications)
- Included Components: Sewing Machine, Foot Pedal, Fabric, Patterns, Sewing Case with Extra Bobbins, Threads and Needle, Instruction Manual
Warranty Information
Please note that this product is sold with No Warranty as per the manufacturer's specifications. For any issues or concerns, please refer to the troubleshooting section or contact customer support.
Customer Support
If you encounter any problems not covered in this manual or require further assistance, please contact Cra-Z-Art customer service. Refer to the product packaging or the Cra-Z-Art official website for contact details.