INSTRUCTION MANUAL

Model: SE017

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

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

Read all instructions before using this household sewing machine. Keep the instructions at a suitable place close to the machine. Make sure to hand them over if the machine is given to a third party.

This appliance can be used by children aged from 8 years and above and persons with reduced physical, sensory or mental capabilities or lack of experience and knowledge if they have been given supervision or instruction concerning use of the appliance in a safe way and understand the hazards involved. Children shall not play with the appliance. Cleaning and user maintenance shall not be made by children without supervision.

DANGER - TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK:

A sewing machine should never be left unattended when plugged in. The electrical socket, to which the machine is plugged in should be easily accessible. Always unplug this sewing machine from the electric outlet immediately after using and before cleaning, removing covers, lubricating or when making any other user servicing adjustments mentioned in the instruction manual.

WARNING - TO REDUCE THE RISK OF BURNS, FIRE, ELECTRIC SHOCK, OR INJURY TO PERSON:

• Do not allow to be used as a toy. Close attention is necessary when this sewing machine is used by or near children.
• Use this sewing machine 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 sewing machine 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. Return the sewing machine to the nearest authorized dealer or service center for examination, repair, electrical or mechanical adjustment.
• Never operate the sewing machine with any air openings blocked. Keep ventilation openings of the sewing machine and foot control free from the accumulation of lint, dust, and loose cloth.
• 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.
• Wear safety glasses.
• Switch the sewing machine off (" 0 ") when making any adjustment in the needle area, such as threading needle, changing needle, threading bobbin, or changing presser foot, etc.
• 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 administrated.
• To disconnect, turn all controls to the off (" 0 ") position, then remove plug from outlet.
• Do not unplug by pulling on cord. To unplug, grasp the plug, not the cord.
• The foot control is used to operate the machine. Never place other objects on the foot control.
• Do not use the machine if it is wet.
• If the LED lamp is damaged or broken, it must be replaced by the manufacturer or its service agent or a similarly qualified person, in order to avoid a hazard.
• If the cord connected with the foot control is damaged, it must be replaced by the manufacturer or its service agent or a similarly qualified person, in order to avoid a hazard.

For Overlock Machines only:

• Never operate without cutter cover or coverstitch table is securely installed.

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS

Parts of the machine

A diagram illustrating the parts of the machine is provided. Key components include:

1. Presser foot pressure adjustment
2. Left needle thread tension dial (blue)
3. Right needle thread tension dial (green)
4. Upper looper thread tension dial (purple)
5. Lower looper thread tension dial (yellow)
6. Handle
7. Presser foot lifter
8. Stitch plate
9. Flat bed extension
10. Front cover
11. Differential feed adjusting lever
12. Power & light switch
13. Hand wheel
14. Stitch length dial
15. Spool stand
16. Cone holder
17. Spool pin
18. Telescopic thread stand
19. Presser foot
20. Movable upper cutter
21. Stationary lower cutter
22. Lower looper
23. Upper looper
24. Stitch finger lever
25. Seam width/cutting width adjustment knob
26. LED-light (available on certain models)

Accessories

The following accessories are included:

• 1. 2-thread converter
• 2. Needle pack (including two needles, size #14/90)
• 3. Screwdriver
• 4. Tweezers
• 5. Lint brush
• 6. Spare lower knife
• 7. Waste tray

Connecting the foot control and the power supply

Foot controls compatible with this machine:

• Type GTC/HKT 72C for 220-240V manufactured by DANYANG GUOTI MOTOR & APPLIANCE CO., LTD / ZHEJIANG HUAXING ELECTRIC MOTOR CO., LTD.
• Type GTE/HKT 7 for 100-120V manufactured by DANYANG GUOTI MOTOR & APPLIANCE CO., LTD/ZHEJIANG HUAXING ELECTRIC MOTOR CO., LTD.

Ensure the voltage matches the plate under the machine before plugging in. Specifications vary by country.

1. Connect the foot control/electric power cord to the socket on the machine.
2. Plug the power cord plug into the electric outlet.
3. Push the power switch to "-" to turn on the machine.
4. Press the foot control to start sewing. Use the foot control to adjust sewing speed.
5. Push the power switch to "O" to turn off the machine.

Note: When the front cover is open, a safety switch prevents the machine from sewing, even if the foot control is pressed.

Note: The overlock machine is adjusted for optimal stitch results at normal room temperature. Extreme temperatures may affect the sewn result.

POLARIZED PLUG INFORMATION (FOR U.S.A. & CANADA ONLY)

This appliance has a polarized plug (one blade wider than the other). To reduce the risk of electric shock, this plug is intended to fit in a polarized outlet only one way. If the plug does not fit fully in the outlet, reverse the plug. If it still does not fit, contact a qualified electrician to install the proper outlet. Do not modify the plug in any way.

Setting up the telescopic thread stand

Extend the telescopic thread stand to its full height and turn until it clicks into place. Place thread spools or cones over the cone holders on the spool pin. If the machine is already threaded, straighten the threads to prevent tangling.

Opening and closing front cover

To Open the front cover: Push the cover to the right as far as it will go and then pull it downward toward you.

To Close the front cover: Pull the cover upward and then slide it to the left until it locks.

Note: The front cover has a safety switch; the machine will not sew if the front cover is open.

Removing and replacing the flat bed extension

Free arm sewing: Slide off the flat bed extension. The free arm facilitates sewing small items and hard-to-reach areas like armholes and trouser cuffs.

To remove the flat bed extension: Slide the flat bed extension to the left and remove it from the machine.

To replace the flat bed extension: Align the projection on the flat bed extension with the groove on the back of the free arm and slide it to the right until it snaps into place.

Presser foot lift

Raise the presser foot using the presser foot lift lever located at the back of the machine.

Changing the needles

Action: Turn off the main power switch and unplug the machine.

1. Turn the hand wheel toward you until the needles are at their highest position.
2. Loosen, but do not remove, the left (B) and/or right (A) needle clamp screw using the small screwdriver while holding the needles.
3. Remove the left and/or right needle.
4. Hold the new needle/s with the flat surface to the back.
5. Insert the needle/s into the left and/or right needle clamp as far as it will go.
6. Securely tighten the left (B) and/or right (A) needle clamp screw.

Changing the presser foot

Action: Turn off the main power switch and unplug the machine.

1. Raise the presser foot.
2. Turn the hand wheel toward you until the needles are in the highest position.
3. Push the white button on the back of the presser foot bar (A), and the foot will come off.
4. Place the new foot with the pin right underneath the groove of the ankle and lower the presser foot. Push the white button on the back of the presser foot bar (A), and the foot will snap into place.

Disengage the movable upper cutter

To place the movable upper cutter in nonworking position:

1. Turn the hand wheel toward you until the upper cutter is raised to its highest position.
2. Open the front cover.
3. Push the movable cutter holder to the right as far as it will go.
4. Turn the knob away from you until the cutter clicks into the nonworking horizontal position (A).

Note: If the cutter stops in the up position, turn the hand wheel toward you until the cutter clears the top of the machine. Continue to rotate the cutter to the horizontal position.

To place the movable upper cutter back in cutting position:

1. Open the front cover and push the movable cutter holder to the right as far as it will go.
2. Turn the knob up and toward you until the cutter clicks into the cutting position.

Note: Always have the cutter down in the cutting position when sewing, as this machine must trim excess fabric to form the stitch over the fabric edge.

Attaching the 2-thread overlock converter

2-thread overlock stitches are sewn using one needle thread and the lower looper thread. Before sewing, attach the 2-thread converter to the upper looper so the machine sews with only two threads.

1. Open the front cover.
2. Bring the upper looper to its lowest position by turning the handwheel toward you.
3. Insert the pin (A) of the converter into the hole (B) of the upper looper.
4. Put the positioning rib (C) in contact with the upper edge of the looper.
5. Insert the point (D) in the hole of the upper looper.

Removing the 2-thread overlock converter

1. Remove the point (D) from the hole of the upper looper and remove the converter.
2. Put the 2-thread converter back into the accessory storage.

Threading the machine

A color-coded diagram is located inside the front cover for quick reference. Thread the machine in the following order:

1. Upper looper threading - Purple
2. Lower looper threading - Yellow
3. Right needle threading - Green
4. Left needle threading - Blue

Important: If the lower looper comes unthreaded, unthread the needle(s), thread the lower looper, then re-thread the needle(s).

Threading the upper looper (purple)

1. Pass the thread from back to front through the thread guide on the thread stand (1).
2. Pull the thread from left to right under the thread guide at the back on the top cover (2). Use tweezers for easier threading.
3. While holding the thread with both hands, pass it between the tension discs and pull it down to ensure it is properly placed between the tension discs (3).

Threading the lower looper (yellow)

1. Pass the thread from back to front through the thread guide on the thread stand (1).
2. Pull the thread from left to right under the thread guide on the back of the top cover (2). Use tweezers for easier threading.
3. While holding the thread with both hands, pass it between the tension discs and pull it down to ensure it is properly placed between the tension discs (3).
4. Turn the hand wheel toward you until the lower looper is at the far right.

Threading the right needle (green)

1. Pass the thread from back to front through the thread guide on the thread stand (1).
2. Pull the thread from left to right under the thread guide on the back of the top cover (2). Use tweezers for easier threading.
3. While holding the thread with both hands, pass it between the tension discs and pull it down to ensure it is properly placed between the tension discs (3).
4. Continue to thread points (4-7).

Note: Ensure the thread passes through the upper thread path of the thread guide (6).

5. Thread the eye of the right needle (8). Use tweezers for easier needle eye threading.
6. Pull about 10 cm of thread through the needle eye to hang free.
7. Raise the presser foot and place the thread to the back, under the presser foot.

Threading the left needle (blue)

1. Pass the thread from back to front through the thread guide on the thread stand (1).
2. Pull the thread from left to right under the thread guide on the back of the top cover (2). Use tweezers for easier threading.
3. While holding the thread with both hands, pass it between the tension discs and pull it down to ensure it is properly placed between the tension discs (3).
4. Continue to thread points (4-6).

Note: Ensure the thread passes through the lower thread path of the thread guide (5).

5. Thread the eye of the left needle (7). Use tweezers for easier needle eye threading.
6. Pull about 10 cm of thread through the needle eye to hang free.
7. Raise the presser foot and place the thread to the back, under the presser foot.

Changing thread

An easy way to change threads:

1. Cut the thread in use near the spool, behind the guides on the telescopic thread stand.
2. Remove the thread spool and place the new thread on the spool pin.
3. Tie the end of the new thread to the end of the old thread. Cut the thread tails to 2-3 cm and firmly pull both threads to test knot security.
4. Raise the presser foot.
5. Note the tension dial settings, then turn the tension dials down to " 0 ".
6. Pull the threads through the machine one at a time until the knots are in front of the needle. If threads do not pull easily, check for tangles on thread guides or looping under the thread stand.
7. Cut the thread behind the knot and thread the needle.
8. Return tension dials to previous settings.

Note: When using standard thread spools, place the thread unreeling disc as shown to prevent the thread from getting caught on the spool edge.

Start sewing

1. When the machine is completely threaded, close the front cover and bring all threads over the stitch plate and slightly to the left under the presser foot.
2. Ensure the upper blade moves correctly against the lower blade by turning the handwheel slowly toward you. If blades are not moving correctly, check for fabric or waste thread stuck between them.
3. Hold the threads and apply slight tension.
4. Turn the hand wheel toward you for 2-3 complete turns to start making a thread chain. Check if all threads wind around the stitch finger of the stitch plate. If threads do not wind around the finger, ensure each thread is threaded correctly.
5. Continue holding the thread chain while pressing the foot control. Sew until the chain is 5-8 cm long.
6. Place fabric under the front of the presser foot and sew a test sample. Guide the fabric slightly with your left hand while sewing. Do not pull on the fabric, as this may deflect the needle, causing it to break.
7. When you reach the end of the fabric, continue sewing while drawing the finished fabric gently backwards and to the left. This is called chaining off and prevents threads from coming undone, preparing for the next sewing.
8. Cut off the thread chain 2-5 cm behind the presser foot using the thread cutter on the left side of the machine. Pull the threads around the thread cutter from the back, then toward you.

Thread tension settings

Set thread tension to suit the fabric and thread type. Increasing the number on the thread tension discs tightens the thread tension.

Lower looper thread and upper looper thread should be balanced with the same tension (both looper threads should cross at the fabric edge). Needle threads should not be too loose or too tight, but equally balanced.

Refer to the stitch table on pages 23-26 for thread tension recommendations for each stitch.

• When the upper looper thread is too loose: The upper looper thread is unbalanced when pulled to the wrong side of the fabric. Tighten the upper looper thread tension (purple) or loosen the lower looper thread tension (yellow).
• When the lower looper thread is too loose: The lower looper thread is unbalanced when pulled to the right side of the fabric. Tighten the lower looper thread tension (yellow) or loosen the upper looper thread tension (purple).
• When the left needle thread is too loose: Tighten the left needle thread tension (blue) or loosen both looper threads (purple and yellow).
• When the right needle thread is too loose: Tighten the right needle thread tension (green).

Differential feed adjustment

The differential feed system consists of two sets of feed teeth arranged one behind the other. Both feed teeth work independently to provide perfect results when sewing specialty fabrics. Adjusting the feed by the front feed teeth relative to the rear feed teeth will "stretch" or "gather" the fabric.

Use differential feed to prevent stretching of knit fabrics and puckering of lightweight fabrics.

• For overlock stitching on normal fabric, set the differential feed adjusting lever to 1.0.
• Gathered overlock (stretch, knit fabrics): For overedging stretch fabric like knits and jersey, adjust the differential feed to a number between 1.0 and 2.0. The setting depends on the fabric. Test sew with different settings before sewing your project.
• Stretch overlock (lightweight fabrics): For overedging light woven or loosely knit fabrics like silk and silky knitwear, adjust the differential feed to a number between 0.7 and 1.0. Apply gentle tension to the fabric by holding the seam lightly in front and back of the presser foot while sewing. The setting depends on the material and desired stretching. Test sew with different settings before sewing your garment.

Presser foot pressure adjustment

The presser foot pressure is pre-set for normal sewing conditions. Adjustment may be necessary in some situations. Increase or decrease pressure until satisfied with the result. Always test sew on a fabric sample before sewing your garment.

• Less pressure: Decrease pressure by turning the adjustment tool counter-clockwise.
• More pressure: Increase pressure by turning the adjustment tool clockwise.

Stitch width settings

Stitch width can be adjusted by changing needle position or using the width adjustment knob.

• Width adjustment by changing needle position:
  • A) Left needle or both needles: 5.7 mm stitch width.
  • B) Right needle only: 3.5 mm stitch width.
• Width adjustment with the width adjustment knob: Fine-tuning the cutting width with the knob allows further adjustment within the ranges shown.
  • A) Left needle only: 5.2 - 6.7 mm
  • B) Right needle only: 3.0 - 4.5 mm

Turn the knob to adjust the desired seam width, using the graduations on the stitch plates as a guideline.

Stitch length settings

Set the stitch length dial to " 3 " for most sewing. Adjust to 4 mm for heavy-weight fabrics and to 2 mm for light-weight fabrics.

Stitch finger lever setting

Set the stitch finger lever to " S " for all standard overlock sewing. To sew a rolled edge, retract the stitch finger by setting the lever to " R ". Ensure the lever is pushed fully in each direction when moving it.

Rolled edge sewing

The rolled edge stitch is suitable for lightweight fabrics like lawn, voile, organdy, crepe, etc. The fabric edge rolls under while overlocking. Adjust thread tension to control the degree of rolling. Set the stitch finger lever to " R " for rolled edge sewing. The minimum overlock stitch width for rolled edging is approximately 1.5 mm, as the cutting width cannot be set below 3.5 mm.

A variation is the narrow edge, achieved by adjusting thread tension according to the stitch table.

Tip: For a beautiful rolled edge, thread the upper looper with a decorative thread and the needle and lower looper with regular lightweight thread.

2-thread rolled edge / narrow edge

1. Attach the 2-thread overlock converter (see page 8).
2. Use the right needle thread and lower looper thread.
3. Move the stitch finger lever to " R ".
4. Set the stitch length dial to " 3-2 " for a fine seam.
5. Set the thread tension according to the stitch table on pages 23-26.
6. Make a thread chain and test sew on a fabric sample before sewing your garment. Hold the thread chain while beginning to sew to prevent it from curling into the seam.

3-thread rolled edge / narrow edge

1. Use the right needle thread and the upper and lower looper threads.
2. Move the stitch finger lever to " R ".
3. Set the stitch length dial to " 3-2 " for a fine seam.
4. Set the thread tension according to the stitch table on pages 23-26.
5. Make a thread chain and test sew on a fabric sample before sewing your garment. Hold the thread chain while beginning to sew to prevent it from curling into the seam.

Flatlock sewing

A Flatlock Stitch is made by adjusting the tension of the 2- or 3-thread overlock stitch, sewing the seam, and then pulling the fabric apart to flatten the seam. Tensions must be adjusted correctly for the fabric to pull flat.

The Flatlock Stitch can be used as a decorative construction stitch (Standard Flatlock Stitch) or for ornamentation on one piece of fabric (Ornamental Flatlock Stitch).

There are two ways to sew a Flatlock Stitch: with wrong sides together for a decorative look, or with right sides together for a Ladder Stitch.

Standard Flatlock Stitch

1. Use the left needle.
2. For 2-thread Flatlock: Attach the 2-thread converter (see page 8). Thread the lower looper and the left needle.
3. For 3-thread Flatlock: Thread the lower and upper looper and the left needle.
4. Set the thread tension according to the stitch table on pages 23-26.
5. Place the wrong sides of the two fabric pieces together to sew a decorative stitch on the right side of the garment.
6. Sew the seam, trimming excess fabric. The needle thread will form a "V" on the underside of the fabric. The lower looper thread will pull into a straight line at the fabric edge.
7. Unfold the fabric and pull on opposite sides of the seam to flatten the stitches.

Ornamental flatlock stitch

1. Place the movable upper cutter in the nonworking position. The fabric should not be trimmed for this stitch.
2. Follow steps 1-3 above.
3. Fold the fabric piece, wrong sides together, to sew a decorative stitch on the right side of the garment.
4. Position the fabric so the seam is sewn with part of the stitch extending off the fabric.
5. Unfold the fabric and pull on opposite sides of the stitch to flatten.

Tip: The upper looper thread is the prominent thread in the flatlock stitch. Use a decorative thread in the upper looper and regular threads in the lower looper and needle.

Ladder stitch

To create a ladder stitch, sew with the right sides of the fabric together. The needle thread will be the prominent thread that creates the ladder.

Corded overlock

Corded overlock can strengthen stitches when joining elastic fabrics like knits. Cording prevents knit fabrics from stretching and stabilizes seams.

1. Insert the cord through the hole in the front of the foot.
2. Position the cord under the foot to the back of the machine and sew the garment seam.
3. The cord is attached in the stitch as the seam is sewn.

Pin placement

Insert straight pins to the left of the presser foot, away from the cutters, for easy removal.

Warning: Sewing over pins will damage and potentially destroy the edge of the cutters.

Securing the thread chain

1. Thread the chain into a large-eyed hand sewing needle.
2. Insert the needle into the end of the seam and pull the chain into the seam to secure the threads.

Machine maintenance

An overlock requires more frequent maintenance than a conventional machine due to lint production from cutters and high operating speeds requiring lubrication.

Cleaning

Action: Turn off the main power switch and unplug the machine.

Open the front cover and remove all lint using the lint brush from the accessory case.

Oiling

Action: Turn off the main power switch and unplug the machine.

To keep the machine running smoothly, lubricate the moving parts indicated in the picture frequently. Use sewing machine oil only; other oils may damage the machine. Wipe the machine surface to remove excess oil before sewing.

Replacing the stationary cutter

Action: Turn off the main power switch and unplug the machine.

The stationary cutter should be replaced when it becomes dull. If you experience difficulties, consult your dealer for adjustments.

1. Open the front cover and set the movable upper cutter (1) in the nonworking position.
2. Loosen the stationary cutter set screw (2) and remove the stationary cutter (3).
3. Place a new stationary cutter in the groove of the stationary cutter holder.
4. Tighten the stationary cutter set screw (2).
5. Return the movable upper cutter (1) to its working position.
6. Turn the handwheel so the needles are in their lowest position.
7. Ensure the front edge of the movable upper cutter is 1-2 mm lower than the cutting edge of the stationary cutter.

Storage

When the machine is not in use, ensure it is unplugged. Cover the machine with the vinyl cover to protect it from dust. Store the machine away from direct sunlight or humidity.

Servicing

For questions regarding service and/or operation, contact the store where the machine was purchased.

Trouble shooting

Stitch table

Explanation of fabric symbols:

A diagram shows fabric symbols for light, medium, and heavy fabrics, both woven and stretch.

The settings in this table are recommendations based on normal conditions. Adjust thread tension according to the stitch, fabric, and thread used. For best results, make tension adjustments in small increments, no greater than half a number at a time. Always test sew on a fabric sample before sewing your garment.

Fabric / Needle / Thread table

Specifications

Singer reserves the right to change machine equipment and accessory assortment, or make modifications to performance or design, without prior notice. Such modifications will always benefit the user and the product.

INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY

SINGER, and the Cameo "S" Design, are exclusive trademarks of The Singer Company Limited S.à.r.l. or its Affiliates.

Please note that upon disposal, this product must be safely recycled in accordance with relevant National legislation for electrical/electronic products. Do not dispose of electrical appliances as unsorted municipal waste; use separate collection facilities. Contact your local government for information regarding available collection systems. When replacing old appliances with new ones, the retailer may be legally obligated to take back your old appliance for disposal free of charge.

If electrical appliances are disposed of in landfills or dumps, hazardous substances can leak into the groundwater and enter the food chain, potentially damaging your health and well-being.

SINGER

ORIGINAL SINCE 1851.