Introduction
Welcome to the instruction manual for your Sears Convertible Sewing Machine Model 1791. This guide provides essential information for the safe and effective operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of your sewing machine. Please read this manual thoroughly before using your machine to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
Image: Front cover of the instruction manual for the Sears Convertible Sewing Machine Model 1791, featuring the machine's name and the phrase "SIMPLE, STRETCH AND SUPER SEWING".
Important Safety Instructions
When using an electrical appliance, basic safety precautions should always be followed, including the following:
- Read all instructions before using this sewing machine.
- 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 pull or push fabric while stitching. This 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.
- Always unplug the sewing machine from the electrical outlet when removing covers, lubricating, or when making any other user servicing adjustments mentioned in the instruction manual.
- Never operate the sewing machine if it has a damaged cord or plug, if it is not working properly, or if it has been dropped or damaged.
Setup and Initial Use
Unpacking Your Machine
Carefully remove the sewing machine from its packaging. Retain all packing materials for future storage or transport. Ensure all accessories listed in the packing list are present.
Power Connection
- Place the machine on a stable, flat surface.
- Insert the machine plug into the machine socket.
- Insert the power supply plug into a suitable electrical outlet.
- Turn on the power switch, usually located on the side or back of the machine.
Threading the Machine
Proper threading is crucial for good stitch quality. Refer to the diagrams in your physical manual for detailed visual instructions.
- Winding the Bobbin: Follow the specific path for winding the bobbin, ensuring even tension.
- Inserting the Bobbin: Place the wound bobbin into the bobbin case, ensuring the thread feeds in the correct direction.
- Upper Threading: Guide the thread from the spool pin through all tension discs and guides, down to the needle. Ensure the presser foot is raised during threading.
- Drawing Up the Bobbin Thread: Hold the upper thread, turn the handwheel to lower and raise the needle, catching the bobbin thread. Pull both threads under the presser foot and to the back.
Operating Instructions
Stitch Selection and Adjustment
Your Model 1791 offers a range of stitches for "Simple, Stretch, and Super Sewing."
- Stitch Pattern Dial: Rotate the stitch pattern dial to select your desired stitch (e.g., straight stitch, zigzag, decorative stitches).
- Stitch Length Dial: Adjust the stitch length for tighter or looser stitches.
- Stitch Width Dial: Control the width of zigzag and other pattern stitches.
- Tension Dial: Adjust the upper thread tension to achieve balanced stitches. Test on a scrap fabric first.
Basic Sewing Operation
- Place the fabric under the presser foot, aligning the edge with a seam guide.
- Lower the presser foot lever.
- Gently press the foot controller to start sewing. Control your speed with the pressure applied.
- To secure a seam, use the reverse lever/button at the beginning and end of your stitching.
- When finished, raise the needle to its highest position, lift the presser foot, and pull the fabric away. Cut threads using the thread cutter.
Maintenance
Regular maintenance ensures your sewing machine operates smoothly and extends its lifespan. Always unplug the machine before performing any maintenance.
- Cleaning: Use a small brush to remove lint and dust from the bobbin area, feed dogs, and tension discs. Avoid using compressed air as it can push debris further into the machine.
- Oiling: Refer to your physical manual for specific oiling points. Use only high-quality sewing machine oil. Do not over-oil.
- Needle Replacement: Change your needle regularly (after 8-10 hours of sewing or when it becomes dull/bent) to prevent skipped stitches and fabric damage.
- Storage: When not in use, cover your machine to protect it from dust.
Troubleshooting
This section addresses common issues you might encounter. For more complex problems, consult a qualified service technician.
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Skipped Stitches | Incorrect needle, bent needle, improper threading, wrong needle size for fabric. | Replace needle, re-thread machine, use correct needle for fabric type. |
| Thread Breaking | Incorrect tension, poor quality thread, burr on needle plate, improperly wound bobbin. | Adjust tension, use quality thread, check for burrs, re-wind bobbin. |
| Fabric Puckering | Tension too tight, incorrect stitch length, wrong presser foot. | Loosen tension, adjust stitch length, use appropriate presser foot. |
| Machine Not Feeding Fabric | Feed dogs lowered, lint in feed dogs, presser foot pressure too low. | Raise feed dogs, clean feed dogs, increase presser foot pressure. |
Specifications
Key specifications for the Sears Convertible Sewing Machine Model 1791:
- Brand: Sears (as per manual title)
- Model Number: 1791
- ASIN: B07BMSQSBQ
- UPC: 740972736797
- Product Dimensions: 3.94 x 3.94 x 3.94 inches
- Item Weight: 14.1 ounces
- Color: White
- First Available: December 3, 2019
Warranty and Support
For information regarding warranty coverage, technical support, or service, please refer to the warranty card included with your original purchase or contact the manufacturer directly. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.
