Pfaff ClassicStyle home 1529 User Manual

1529

ClassicStyle home

Owner’s manual

10

11

12

27
26

Machine Overview

87

9

18

17

13

16

19 20

22

25

23

24

1. Connection socket “foot

6

5

control with main cord”

2. Main switch

3. Handwheel release disk

4. Handwheel

4

5. Bobbin winder

3

6. Lid with stitches

7. Extra spool holder

8. Spool holder with spool cap

9. Take-up lever

2

10. Needle thread tension dial

11. Threading slots

1

12. Thread cutter

13. Presser foot holder with
presser foot

14. Removable accessory tray

15. Base plate

21

16. Needle holder with À xing
screw

17. IDT System / Integrated
Dual Feed

18. Presser foot lifter

19. Stitch width dial

20. Needle position dial

21. Carrying handle

22. Stitch selection

23. Button for “reverse sewing”

24. Stitch length dial

25. Needle plate

26. Thread guide

27. Sewing lamp (max. 15 watt)

Some fabrics have a lot of excess dye which can cause
discoloration on other fabric but also on your sewing
machine. This discoloring may be very difÀ cult or
impossible to remove. Fleece and denim fabric in
especially red and blue often contain a lot of excess
dye. If you suspect that your fabric/ready-to-wear
garment contains a lot of excess dye, always pre-wash
it before sewing to avoid the discoloring.

Presser feet (normal accessories)

For more information about accessories,
please contact your PFAFF dealer.

0 Standard Presser Foot with IDT

Part No. 820250-096 (pictured)
(select 1546 and 1536)

Part No. 820258-096
(select 1526)

1 Clearview Foot

(Fancy-stitch foot without IDT)

Part No. 820229-096

31045

3 Blindhem/Overlock Foot with IDT

Part No. 820256-096 (pictured)
(select 1546 and 1536)

Part No. 820264-096
(select 1526)

4 Zipper Foot with IDT

Part No. 820248-096 (pictured)
(select 1546 and 1536)

Part No. 820261-096
(select 1526)

5 Buttonhole Foot

Part No. 820295-096

123

56478

1 Felt pad

Part No. 93-033 064-05

2-4 Spool cap

2. Part No. 93-036 048-44

3. Part No. 93-035 050-44

4. Part No. 93-036 049-44

5 Extra spool pin

Part No. 93-033 063-44

Stitches

Stitch descriptions are found in the introduction section.

6 Seam ripper

Part No.99-053-016-91

7 Brush

Part No. 93-847 979-91

8 Bobbins

Part No. 93-040 970-45

1529

ClassicStyle home

Enjoy the creativity of home style sewing!

Congratulations!

You have purchased a top quality Pfaff sewing machine with great

features to create textiles and accessories for your home.

To learn about your

instructions for the

ClassicStyle home

You r

1536

select

manual other accessories are described, they are optional and can

be purchased from your Pfaff dealer.

You will À nd the overview of the stitches and presserfeet included

with your

except from some stitches and accessories. In this

ClassicStyle home

ClassicStyle home

1536

select

.

1529

has the same features as the

1529

1529

, follow the

on the next page.

www.pfaff.com

You are invited to www.pfaff.com to discover the wonderful

features of your new sewing machine. Here you will À nd inspiration

in creative sewing projects and learn more about the special

accessories available for your machine.

This houshold sewing machine is designed to comply with IEC/EN 60335-2-28 and UL1594.

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.

DANGER - To reduce the risk of electric shock:

• A sewing machine should never be left unattended when plugged in. Always unplug this

sewing machine from the electric outlet immediately after using and before cleaning.

• Always unplug before relamping. Replace bulb with same type rated 15 Watt.

WARNING - To reduce the risk of burns, À re,

electric shock, or injury to persons:

• Do not allow to be used as a toy. Close attention is necessary when this sewing machine

is used by or near children or inÀ rm persons.

• 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 open-

ings of the sewing machine and foot controller free from the accumulation of lint, dust,
and loose threads.

• Keep À ngers 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 deÁ ect the needle causing it to break.

• 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.

• 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 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.

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS

Introduction

II

Contents

Introduction

Standard accessories IV

Stitch table VI

1. Operate your Pfaff select

Electrical connection 1:2

Removable accessory tray 1:3

Bobbins 1:4

Bobbin case 1:8

Threading the needle 1:10

Needle threader 1:11

Pulling up the bobbin thread 1:12

Presser foot lifter 1:13

Thread cutter 1:12

Changing the presser foot 1:13

IDT System/Integrated Dual Feed 1:14

Changing the needle 1:15

Needle thread tension 1:15

Lowering the feed dog 1:15

Stitch width dial 1:16

Needle position dial 1:16

Reverse sewing 1:17

Stitch length dial 1:17

Stitch selection 1:18

2. Utility stitches
and practical sewing

Sewing chart 2:2

General sewing aids 2:3

Non-elastic stitches 2:4

Elastic stitches 2:6

Overlock stitches 2:8

Covering stitches 2:10

Buttonhole 2:12

Button sewing 2:14

Hemming with the twin needle 2:15

Smocking 2:15

Gathering 2:16

Darning 2:17

Sewing on zippers 2:19

Stabilizing edges 2:22

Sewing lace 2:23

Shell edging 2:24

3. Decorative sewing and embroidery
techniques

Sewing table for decorative
sewing 3:2

Decorative stitches 3:3

Monograms 3:4

Embroidering with the dense
zigzag stitch/Tapering 3:5

Appliqué 3:7

Richelieu 3:8

Eyelet embroidery 3:8

Patchwork quilt 3:9

Hemstitching 3:10

4. Maintenance and trouble-shooting

Changing the needle plate 4:2

Cleaning 4:2

Replacing the sewing lamp 4:3

Trouble-shooting 4:4

Index 4:6

Introduction

III

Introduction

IV

Presser feet (normal accessories)

For more information about accessories,
please contact your PFAFF dealer.

0 Standard Presser Foot with IDT

Part No. 820250-096 (pictured)
(select 1546 and 1536)

Part No. 820258-096
(select 1526)

1 Fancy Stitch Foot, with IDT

Part No. 820253-096
(select 1546)

1 Clearview Foot

(Fancy-stitch foot without IDT)

Part No. 820229-096

3 Blindhem/Overlock Foot with IDT

Part No. 820256-096 (pictured)
(select 1546 and 1536)

Part No. 820264-096
(select 1526)

4 Zipper Foot with IDT

Part No. 820248-096 (pictured)
(select 1546 and 1536)

Part No. 820261-096
(select 1526)

5 Buttonhole Foot

Part No. 820295-096

6 Darning Foot

Part No. 820243-096
(select 1546)

7 Rolled Hem Foot, 3 mm

Part No. 820249-096
(select 1546)

Introduction

V

123

56478

8 Edge Guide/Quilting Guide

Part No. 820251-096

1 Felt pad

Part No. 93-033 064-05

2-4 Spool cap

2. Part No. 93-036 048-44

3. Part No. 93-035 050-44

4. Part No. 93-036 049-44

5 Extra spool pin

Part No. 93-033 063-44

6 Seam ripper

Part No.99-053-016-91

7 Brush

Part No. 93-847 979-91

8 Bobbins

Part No. 93-040 970-45

Introduction

VI

Stitch table (non-elastic stitches)

select 1546

select 1536 & select 1526

Stitch Description Application

1546 1536/1526

A/

A/B/C

B/C

DH

E–

F–

GE

Buttonhole Standard buttonhole for blouses or bed linens

Blind stitch with zigzag
(elastic)

Greek stitch with zigzag A traditional decorative stitch e.g. for towel

Scallop stitch A traditional decorative stitch e.g. for towel

Straight stitch,
15 needle positions, stitch
width dial set at 0

For invisible hemming with simultaneous seam/
overcasting. Especially for stretch material

borders

borders

For all straight stitching and topstitching work up
to 6 mm

H–

IK

KI

L–

MF

IG –

LC –

LG –

LI -

MDF –

–G

Zigzag stitch,
15 needle positions, stitch
width dial set at 0.5 – 5

Left needle position
(for straight stitch and
zigzag stitch)

Center needle position
operations.

Right needle position
(for straight stitch and
zigzag stitch)

Blind stitch For invisible hemming on sturdier materials

Greek stitch, wide A traditional decorative stitch

Shell-edging stitch For Á at overlapped seams

Fancy elastic stitch For overcasting, sewing on elastic, darning tears

Elastic stitch For overcasting, sewing on elastic, darning tears

Viennese stitch Decorative stitch e.g. for household textiles

Emperor stitch, narrow A dainty decorative stitch

Emperor stitch, wide A dainty decorative stitch

Greek stitch, narrow A traditional decorative stitch

Decorative stitch A traditional decorative stitch

Decorative stitch Decorative stitch e.g. for quilting

For serging and appliqué. Also suitable for
tapering, eyelet embroidery and cording work

Straight stitch: For all sewing and top-stitching
operations which require a left needle position.
Zigzag stitch:
For serging, appliqué and tapering.

Straight stitch: For most sewing and top-stitching
operations.
Zigzag for most zigzag operations

For all sewing and top-stitching operations which
require a right needle position. Zigzag stitch:
For serging, appliqué, tapering and cording work

and inserting patches

and inserting patches

Stitch table (stretch stitches)

select 1546

select 1536 & select 1526

Stitch Description Application

1546 1536/1526

DH

E–

F–

GE

H–

IK

KI

L–

MF
IG –
KM –

-- G

-- H

Peacock’s eye stitch Elastic closing and serging seam. The material

Cover stitch For top-stitching and overstitching stretch

Herringbone stitch A decorative stitch for top-stitching or whip

Stretch triple straight
stitch, 15 needle positions
Stretch triple zigzag
stitch, 15 needle positions
Stitch width knob 0.5 – 5

Left needle position
(for stretch triple straight
and zigzag stitches)

Center needle position
(for stretch triple straight
and zigzag stitches)

Right needle position
(for stretch triple straight
and zigzag stitches)

Pullover stitch Elastic closing and serging seams for jersey. The

Closed overlock stitch A closing and serging seam for materials which

Open overlock stitch A closing and serging seam for sturdy materials or

Feather stitch For joining two À nished edges with a gap between,

Honeycomb stitch For sewing on elastic thread, overstitching terry

Penant stitch A decorative stitch also used as a covering stitch

Cord stitch A loose decorative stitch

Heavy open overlock
stitch

Decorative stitch Embellishment

must be turned by 180 degrees

materials, e.g. cuffs, hems and panels

stitching hems, e.g. pajamas and sweatsuits
For stretch seams, e.g. inside seams as well as

seams on sportswear and workwear

For sewing elastic bands on elastic materials or
seams on stretch materials

For elastic seams which require a left needle
position

For elastic seams which require a center needle
position

For elastic seams which require a right needle
position

material must be turned by 180 degrees

fray easily

materials which do not fray easily

e.g. hemstitching. Also for crazy quilting

A closing and serging seam on heavy materials

Introduction

VII

Introduction

VIII

Stitch table (stretch stitches)

select 1546

Stitch Description Application

1546

LC
LD
LG
LI
EK
EL

FG
ID
IF

LK
LMK
MG

Dutch stitch, narrow A decorative stitch, e.g. for household textiles

Dutch stitch A decorative stitch, e.g. for household textiles

Border stitch A decorative stitch, e.g. for traditional embroidery

Weaving stitch An ornamental stitch, e.g. for bath accessories

Spiral stitch A decorative stitch, e.g. for household textiles

Diagonal coverstitch For top-stitching and overstitching stretch materials, i.e.

Turkish stitch with zigzag A top-stitching seam for patchwork and quilting

Branch stitch A decorative elastic stitch, e.g. for sportswear

Floss stitch For whip-stitching hems, e.g. on pajamas and sweatsuits.

Diagonal stitch An elastic decorative stitch

Triangle stitch A decorative, elastic stitch

Florentine stitch A stretch, decorative stitch

cuffs, hems and panels

The material must be turned by 180 degrees

1. Operate your Pfaff select

Operate your Pfaff select

1:2

Carrying-case

Place the cords, foot control and
instruction book in the front pocket of te
carrying case.

Top cover

Open the folding cover (6) upwards.
The stitches of the sewing machine are
illustrated on the inside of the top cover.

Connecting the foot control

Connect the plug of the foot control to
the connecting socket (1) of the sewing
machine and to the wall socket. The
sewing speed is regulated by pressing the
foot control.

You can regulate the sewing speed by
moving the slide on the front part of the
foot control.

Position
Position

= half speed

= full speed

AE023 - 120V, USA and Canada
AE020 - 230V, Europe
AE024 - 240V, Australia

Main switch

When the main switch (2) is switched on,
the sewing bulb lights up. The sewing
machine is now ready to use.

For the USA and Canada

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

DO NOT modify the plug in any way.

1:2

Operate your Pfaff select

Accessory tray

Your Pfaff select sewing machine has a
removable accessory tray (15) which is
also used as an extended work support.

Model 1546, has a special removable
accessory organizer. The enclosed
accessories are numbered. Sort
the enclosed accessories into the
corresponding sections of the accessory
organizer.

Using the free arm

In order to sew with the free arm, you
must remove the accessory tray. Using
both hands, swing the accessory tray (15)
to the left and lift it out of the hole.

When replacing the removable accessory
tray to its proper position, ensure that it
is Á ush with the free arm of the sewing
machine.

1:3

1:3

Operate your Pfaff select

1:4

Preparing the machine for
bobbin winding

Hold the handwheel (4) À rmly and turn
the handwheel release disc (3) until it
stops in the direction of the arrow. This
stops the needle from moving while the
machine is winding the bobbin.

Placing the bobbin

Switch off the main switch (2)

Place the empty bobbin so that the black
pin of the bobbin winder (5) snaps into
the slot of the bobbin. The Pfaff logo is
facing up.

Push the bobbin to the right

Note: The bobbin can only be wound when it
is moved fully to the right.

1:4

B

A

Operate your Pfaff select

Winding the bobbin from the spool
holder

Place the sewing thread on the spool
holder (8). To guarantee free movement
of the thread and to give additional
hold to the thread spool, À t a spool cap
corresponding to the size of the thread
spool

1:5

C

Threading

Place the thread into guide A and pull it
through opening B and to the right under
the hook C. Wind the thread clockwise a
few times around in the bobbin.

Switch on the main switch

Hold the end of the thread À rmly and
press the foot control. The winding action
will stop automatically as soon as the
bobbin is full. Cut the thread, push the
bobbin to the left and remove it.

Don’t forget:

Turn the handwheel release disk (3) fully
back again. Then turn the handwheel (4)
towards you until it snaps into place.

1:5

Operate your Pfaff select

1:6

Winding from the second spool holder

Push the second spool holder (7) into its
hole and place a spool of thread with the
corresponding spool cap on it.

Threading

Place the thread into guide A and pull
it through opening B to the right under
hook C. Wind the thread clockwise a few
times around the bobbin.

Switch on the main switch

Hold the end of thread À rmly and press
the the foot control. The winding action
will stop automatically as soon as the
bobbin is full.

Cut the thread, push the bobbin to the left
and remove it.

B

A

Don’t forget:

Turn the handwheel release disk (3)
back again. Then turn the handwheel (4)
towards you until it snaps into place.

TIP: If the machine is already threaded,
you can easily wind thread from the second
spool holder without having to unthread the
machine.

1:6

C

Operate your Pfaff select

C

Winding through the needle

Even if the machine has been completely
threaded, you can still wind the bobbin.

Raise presser foot lifter (19). Pass the
needle thread through the presser foot
and downwards; then through the right
threading slot (11) and upwards.

Now, pull the thread into the take-up
lever from left to right (9). The take-up
lever must be positioned at its very top.

Pass the thread to the right under the
guide hook C. Then wind the thread
several times around the bobbin. Press the
foot control and winding the bobbin.

1:7

Don’t forget:

Make sure to stop the needle from
moving while winding the bobbin (see
page 1:4).

1:7

Operate your Pfaff select

1:8

Bobbin Case/Hook Cover

Switch off the main switch.

Hold the side of the bobbin case/hook
cover and open it towards you.

Removing the bobbin case

Raise the bobbin case lever and pull out
the bobbin case. Release the lever and
remove the empty bobbin.

1:8

A

B

C

Operate your Pfaff select

Inserting the bobbin

Insert the full bobbin (with the Pfaff logo
facing towards the bobbin case) into the
bobbin case. In doing so, pull the thread
sideways through slot A, then under
the tension plate B until it rests in the
opening (see arrow).

Check: When you look at the bobbin and pull
the thread, the bobbin must turn clockwise.

Inserting the bobbin case

Lift lever E and slide the bobbin case
onto the hook pin C as far as it will go.
Opening D of the bobbin case must face
upwards.

1:9

D

E

Check: Pull the bobbin thread sharply. The
bobbin case must not fall out of the hook.

1:9

Operate your Pfaff select

1:10

Threading the needle thread

Switch off the main switch

Raise the presser foot lifter (19) and
turn the handwheel until the take-up
lever (9) has moved to the top. Place the
thread on the spool holder (8) and À t the
corresponding spool cap.

Now, using both hands, pull the
thread into guide A and under thread
guide hook B. Pass the thread through
the lefthand threading slot C and
downwards. Pull the thread around stop
D into the righthand threading slot and
upwards E to the take-up lever F.

The thread must be pulled into the
take-up lever F from left to right and
downwards again in the right hand
threading slot. Floss the thread from the
side behind one of the two thread guides
H.

To thread the needle, stick the thread
from front to back through the needle eye.

B

A

F

F

C

E

G

To thread the needle using the needle
threader, please refer to the next page.

1:10

D

H

A

B

Operate your Pfaff select

Needle threader (Model 1546)

To make threading the needle easier and
quicker, use the PFAFF needle threader
(13). Lower the presser foot. Turn the
handwheel until the needle is at its
highest position. Place the needle thread
under hook A and hold it taut. Move the
needle threader fully downwards and
turn it towards the needle so that the
small hook B goes through the needle
eye. Place the thread into the hook from
below.

Turn the needle threader towards the
rear, releasing the thread carefully, and
allow the threader to move upwards.
You can now pull the thread through the
needle eye.

1:11

C

Threading the twin needle

Insert the twin needle.

Fit the second spool holder and place one
spool of thread on each holder.

In the left threading slot (11) you will À nd
tension disk C. During threading, make
sure that you pass one thread left and one
thread right over tension disk C.

Carry on threading in the usual way, but
make sure the threads are not twisted
with each other.

Pull the threads right and left into thread
guide (25) and thread the needles.

Note: You cannot use the needle threader for
a twin needle.

1:11

Operate your Pfaff select

1:12

Drawing up the bobbin thread

Turn off the main switch.

Raise the presser foot. Hold the needle
thread and turn the handwheel towards
you until the needle is in the highest
position and the bobbin thread has
formed a loop. Pull the needle thread to
draw up the bobbin thread.

Bobbin thread

Close the bobbin case/hook cover and
pull the thread under the presser foot to
the left.

Thread cutter

Pull the threads from the back to the front
over the thread cutter (12).

1:12

Operate your Pfaff select

Presser foot lifter

The presser foot is raised or lowered with
the presser foot lifter (19).

Removing the presser foot

Turn off the main switch.

Position the needle at its highest point.
Press the presser foot upwards at the
front and down at the back at the same
time so that it disengages from the
presser foot holder (14).

1:13

Engaging the presser foot

Place the presser foot under the presser
foot holder (14) so that when the presser
foot lifter (19) is lowered, the pins of the
foot engage in the presser foot holder.

Check: Please check that the presser foot is
properly engaged by raising the presser foot
lifter.

1:13

Operate your Pfaff select

1:14

The Integrated dual feed/IDT System

(Models 1536 and 1546)

PFAFF offers the ideal solution for sewing
difÀ cult materials: the integrated dual
feed. This system feeds the material from
the top and bottom simultaneously as
is done in industrial sewing machines.
The fabric is fed precisely. When sewing
light or difÀ cult materials such as silk and
rayon fabrics, the dual feed prevents seam
puckering.

Engaging the Integrated Dual feed

Important! For all sewing jobs with the
top feed, only use sewing feet with cutout
at the back.

Raise the presser foot. Then push the top
feed (17) downwards until it snaps into
place.

Disengaging the Integrated Dual Feed

Hold the dual feed with two À ngers at
the marked places. Push the top feed (17)
down a little and out to the rear, and let it
move slowly upwards.

The even feeding action also ensures
perfect matching of checked and striped
fabrics.

1:14

B

Operate your Pfaff select

Changing the needle

A

Switch off the main switch.

To remove: Lower the presser foot
and move the needle to its highest
point. Now loosen the needle
screw (18) and pull the needle
down.

To insert: The Á at side A of the
needle must face to the rear.
Lower the presser foot and insert
the needle, pushing it up as far
as it goes. Hold the needle and
tighten the needle screw (18)
À rmly.

Setting the needle thread tension

Set the required needle thread tension
(10) with the help of the mark B.

The normal setting for sewing is 4 to 5.

For embroidering, darning and button­hole set the tension between 2 and 3.

1:15

C

Dropping the feed dog

For certain sewing work, e.g. darning the
feed dog has to be dropped.

To do this, open the bobbin case/hook
cover and move slide C fully to the right.
Now the feed dog is dropped.

1:15

Operate your Pfaff select

1:16

Stitch width dial

The stitch width can be adjusted with this
dial (27). When selecting the width, the
needle must not be in the material.

Basic setting: Turn the stitch width knob
(27) to the symbol
width).

Exception: Straight stitch is sewn with
stitch width 0.

In chapter “2. Utility stitches and practical
sewing”, you will À nd recommendations
in the tables for the stitch width selection
of individual stitches. During sewing you
can also change the stitch width.

Needle position dial

In the center needle position
, 14 additional needle positions can be
selected by turning the needle positioning
dial (28) in increments to the left or right.

The furthest needle position to the left

can be achieved by turning the dial
(28) as far as it will go to the right. The
furthest needle position to the right
can be achieved by turning the dial as far
as it will go the left. When the position of
the needle is being changed, the needle
must not be in the material.

Note: If you have selected the right needle
position, you can now use the width dial (27)
to increase or reduce the width of the left side
of the stitch. The reverse applies also for needle
position to the left.

(maximum stitch

27

28

1:16

21

20

Operate your Pfaff select

Reverse sewing

The machine sews in reverse only as
long as the reverse sewing button (20) is
pressed.

Stitch length adjustment dial

With the stitch length adjustment dial (21)
you can adjust the stitch length between
0 and 6 mm by turning the point marking
on the button to the required length.

1:17

A

Between the numbers 0 and 1 you will
À nd the “buttonhole” symbol. This area
is the optimum stitch density for sewing
buttonholes and embroidering.

The further you turn the dial to 0, the
higher the density of the stitch.

To sew stretch stitches (dark
background), you must turn the stitch
length adjustment dial (21) as far as it will
go in the grey area.

21

1:17

Operate your Pfaff select

1:18

Stitch selection, Easy Select System – select 1546

Utility stitches

Each stitch has been given a letter that
you can À nd on the push button controls.
By pressing the correct button, the stitch
is selected and the machine is ready to
sew. Button B releases the buttons that
have been activated.

Under the lid (6) you will À nd the stitch
table with all the utility stitches and stitch
combinations.

Stretch stitches

All the stitches with a colored
background are stretch stitches, i.e. they
are suitable for stretch material. Press the
selected button down and turn the stitch
length dial (21) as far as it will go in the
grey area.

Button B releases the button that have
already been selected.

B

Utility and stretch stitch combinations

By pushing two or several buttons you
can create combinations in the utility
stitch range.

The stitch length dial can either be in the
normal sewing range or in the stretch
range.

All the stitch combinations are illustrated
on the stitch table in the lid. You can
release buttons that are already activated
with button B.

1:18

B

B

Stitch selection, stitch dial – select 1536, 1526

Utility stitches

Each stitch is identiÀ ed by a letter. The
stitches and their corresponding letters
are shown on the inside of the lid, a chart
is also found in the Introduction chapter.

A

Turn the dial (24) until the corresponding
letter is positioned below mark A.

24

Stretch stitches

All the stitches with a colored background
are stretch stitches, i.e. they are suitable
for stretch material.

Turn the dial (24) until the corresponding
letter is positioned below mark A.

21

Turn the stitch length dial (21) as far as it
will go in the grey area.

Operate your Pfaff select

1:19

1:19

Operate your Pfaff select

1:20

1:20

2. Utility stitches
and practical sewing

2:2

Utility stitches and practical sewing

Explanation of the sewing chart

The following charts show the
recommended settings for each stitch or
technique.

These charts also provide you with
instructions that are necessary when
sewing the selected stitches.

The choice of the sewing foot, the setting
of the needle thread tension and whether
to use IDT or not.

Always use the “center” needle position

if not otherwise speciÀ ced in the
instructions.

stitch

stitch

Stitch number

Stitch width in mm

Stitch length in mm

Dual feed on =

off =

Thread tension

Presser foot number

Perfect tension

Too high tension

Too low tension

A

B

Utility stitches and practical sewing

Needle thread tension

To get perfect sewing results, the needle
and bobbin thread tensions must be
perfectly tuned to each other. The normal
setting for utility stitches is in the range
of 4-5.

Check the tension with a wide zigzag
stitch. The threads must be interlaced
between the two fabric pieces.

If the needle thread tension is too high
the threads are interlaced above the top
fabric. If the needle thread tension is too
low, the threads are interlaced below the
lower fabric.

The adjustment of the needle thread
tension is described on page 1:15.

Topstitching

Straight stitch G (1546)/E (1536, 1526) can
be sewn using any of 15 various needle
positions in such a way that you can
always guide the sewing foot along the
fabric edge for top-stitching work. The
top-stitch needle position is determined
by the needle position dial. If you wish
to top-stitch farther from the fabric edge,
simply guide the fabric along the guide
marks on the needle plate or use the edge
guide (standard accessory No.8). The
edge guide is inserted into hole A and is
secured with À xing screw B.

2:3

Sewing aid for thick seams

To ensure a consistent feed when
beginning sewing at a thick seam, we
recommend supporting the presser foot
on a piece of fabric of the same height as
the workpiece

2:4

Utility stitches and practical sewing

stitch

G

E

E

2,5

0

2,5

0

2,5

0

3-5

3-5

3-5

0/1

0/1

0/1

Straight stitch

Stitch G/E is the basic straight stitch. The
stitch length can be increased up to 6 mm.

It is easier to do some sewing jobs by
changing the needle position, e.g. top­stitching a collar or sewing in a zipper.
You can select up to 15 different needle
positions (see page 1:16).

Please ensure that the needle is at its
highest position when adjusting the
needle position.

C

A

B

stitch

2-

2-

2-

1-2

1-2

1-2

G

E

E

3-5

3-5

3-5

0/1

0/1

0/1

Zigzag stitch

In addition to overlock stitching, zigzag
stitch G, stitch width 5 , is also suitable
for overcasting various materials. In this
case, the material should only be positioned
halfway under the sewing foot.

When overcasting the edge, make sure the
needle goes into the material and over the
edge alternately.

The width for overcasting can be reduced
up to 2 mm.

For overcasting difÀ cult materials, blind
stitch foot No. 3 is very useful. When
sewing, the thread lies over pin C, thus
preventing curling of the fabric edge. In this
way you can sew beautiful smooth seams.

The raw edge must be guided along edge
guide B. You can adjust this edge guide
with adjusting screw A.

Important: When the blindhem stitch foot
is used for overcasting with the zigzag
stitch, select the right needle position.
Choose a stitch width in the range of
3-5 mm (do not use any other needle
position).

stitch

H/D

- /H

- /H

5-

5-

5-

1-2

1-2

1-2

3-5

3-5

3-5

0/3

0/3

0/3

Blindhem stitch (Model 1546)

Blindhem stitch H is best suited for
invisible hems; sewing by hand is no
longer necessary.

• Serge the edge of the hem

• Fold the edge inwards by the hem
width.

• Now unfold the hem again so that the
hem edge protrudes by about 1 cm

• Place the fabric under the sewing foot
so that the crease line runs along edge
guide B.

• Using the needle positioning knob
28, select the needle position to the right

.

• When the needle enters the crease
line, it must only pick up one À ber of the
fabric.

Utility stitches and practical sewing

A

B

Remember!

When blindhem stitching, if you select a
needle position other than right, and
stitch width other than 5, make sure the
needle does not strike the bar of presser
foot 3.

If the stitches are visible on the right side,
adjust edge guide B by turning adjusting
screw A.

Use the needle position
width dial (27) to regulate the penetration
of the needle in the crease.

Stitch H (1546)

and the

2:5

Blindhem stitch (elastic)

Stitch D (1546) or H (1536/1526) is a blind
stitch for woven or elastic fabrics. The
hem is sewn and overcast at the same
time.

Stitch D (1546), stitch H (1536/1526)

2:6

Utility stitches and practical sewing

Stretch triple zigzag stitch

The stretch triple zigzag stitch is a highly
elastic and decorative seam which is
very suitable for hems on T-shirts and
underwear.

• Serge the edge of the hem.

• Fold the hem inwards at the required
width.

• Topstitch the hem from the right side.

stitch

G

E

E

3-5

3-5

3-5

Stretch

Stretch

Stretch

3-5

3-5

3-5

0/1

0/1

0/1

Stretch triple straight stitch

This stitch is used for sewing all seams
where reinforcement is needed, e.g. inside
trouser seams.

Turn the stitch length dial away from you
as far as it will go for the longest stitch
length.

stitch

G

E

E

0

0

0

Stretch

Stretch

Stretch

3-5

3-5

3-5

0/1

0/1

0/1

stitch

Utility stitches and practical sewing

Elastic stitch

Because of its high elasticity, this
stitch can be used for sewing elastic on
swimwear, skirts or lingerie.

• Mark elastic and fabric in quarters.

• Pin elastic to fabric at quarter
markings.

• Place fabric and elastic under sewing
foot.

• Stretch elastic to À t the fabric. Begin
sewing.

Note: When stretching elastic, make sure to
stretch from the front and back of the sewing
foot.

2:7

M

F

F

M

F

F

stitch

5-

5-

5-

5-

5-

5-

1-2,5

1-2,5

1-2,5

Stretch

Stretch

Stretch

3-5

3-5

3-5

3-5

3-5

3-5

0/1

0/1

0/1

Honeycomb stitch

The honeycomb stitch is an elastic and
decorative hem which is particularly
suitable for hems on T-shirts and
childrens clothes.

• Fold the hem over double and
overstitch it.

0/1

0/1

0/1

2:8

Utility stitches and practical sewing

What is an overlock stitch?

For stretch fabrics, the select models
offer overlock stitches which sew two
fabric layers together and overcast
simultaneously. They are more elastic
than normal seams, very durable and
quickly sewn.

Tip: We recommend using blindhem stitch
foot No. 3 when sewing overlock seams. It
guides particularly well and prevents the
seam from puckering even on wide seams.

Open overlock stitch

With this stitch, thicker fabrics and fabrics
which do not fray too much can be sewn
together perfectly.

TIP: Make sure that the needle sews to the
right of the fabric just over the edge and not
in it.

stitch

K

I

I

5-

5-

5-

Stretch

Stretch

Stretch

3-5

3-5

3-5

0/3

0/3

0/3

stitch

Utility stitches and practical sewing

Closed overlock stitch

The closed overlock stitch is perfect for
sewing jersey knits. You can also sew
sleeve cuffs and knit collars which are
well-sewn and long-lasting.

TIP: Ensure that the sleeve cuff is stretched
while it is being sewn.

Remember!

When overlocking, if you select a needle
position other than center, and
stitch width other than 5 , make sure the
needle does not strike the bar of sewing
foot 3.

2:9

I

K

K

stitch

H

–

–

5-

5-

5-

5-

Stretch

Stretch

Stretch

3-5

3-5

3-5

0/3

0/3

0/3

Pullover stitch (Model 1546)

This stitch is suitable for open-knit
fabrics. Fashion-knit garment sections can
also be joined effortlessly with this stitch.
Make sure that the fabric is fed to the
right of the needle, not to the left.

TIP: To prevent the seam from stretching
while sewing, it is advisable to add a woolen
thread under light tension.

Stretch

–

–

–

–

3-5

0/1

–

–

–

–

2:10

Utility stitches and practical sewing

What is a covering stitch?

You can use the following stitches
for sewing a Á at covering seam. This
produces a ”Á atlock effect” with a
professional look on collar plackets or
raglan seams.

The covering stitches are only available
on select 1546.

Feather stitch (Model 1546)

With the feather stitch you can sew very
stretchy fabrics with an effect similar to
that of hemstitching, e.g. lingerie.

• Serge the fabric edges and baste them
over.

• Lay the edges to be sewn underneath
the pressing foot with a distance between
the edges of about 3 mm.

• Stitch from the face side, ensuring that
the needle perforates the fabric both right
and left.

stitch

L

–

–

5-

–

–

Stretch

–

–

3-5

0/1

–

–

–

–

stitch

L

–

–

5-

–

–

1-2

Utility stitches and practical sewing

2:11

Fancy elastic stitch (Model 1546)

The fancy elastic stitch is very useful for
fabrics that require a Á at seam, e.g. terry
cloth and Á eece.

• Place the two fabric edges so that they
overlap by about 2 cm and overstitch each
edge with fancy elastic stitch.

3-5

0/1

–

–

–

–

–

–

stitch

IG

–

–

5-

–

–

Stretch

–

–

3-5

Pennant stitch (Model 1546)

The pennant stitch is one of the many
types of covering stitches. Since it can
be stretched it is particularly suitable for
overstitching the bands on elastic fabrics,
e.g. sweatshirts or sportswear.

• Sew the band onto the part with an
overlock stitch (see pgs 2:8,2:9)

• The seam allowance can now be
overstitched from the right side of the
fabric. Make sure that the needle enters in
the shadow of the seam.

0/1

–

–

–

–

2:12

Utility stitches and practical sewing

Buttonholes

Sewing buttonholes is very easy with all
the models with push button controls
since the fabric does not have to be
turned.

Buttonholes are generally sewn onto
a piece of doubled fabric. However,
for some fabrics, e.g. silk, organza and
viscose, it is necessary to use stabilizer to
prevent the fabric from contracting while
sewing.

To produce beautiful seams,
embroidering or darning threads are
ideal.

Mark the starting point of the buttonhole
either with a magic pen or dress pin, and
always sew a sample buttonhole À rst.

Note: Before starting any buttonhole, always
push the guide of the buttonhole foot fully to
the front, i.e. so that the red arrow is at the
À rst red mark. The red marks are arranged at
an interval of 0.5 cm. They are a guide when
determining the length of the buttonhole.

stitch

CBA

–

–

5

h

–

–

3-5

3-5

3-5

0/1

1546 – Standard buttonhole

• Insert the buttonhole foot and slide
the foot forward as far as it will go.

• Select stitch 1 (C) and sew the right
side of the buttonhole to the required
length. Clip the top thread after a few
stitches.

• Select stitch 2 (B) and hold the button
down as you sew a few bartacks.

• Select stitch 3 (A) and sew the left
side of the buttonhole until it matches the
previous side in length.

• Select stitch 4 (B) and hold the button
down as you sew a few bartacks.

• Release button B and sew a couple
stitches to secure your buttonhole.

• Carefully cut open your buttonhole.

Tip: For À ne buttonholes, you can reduce the
buttonhole width with the stitch width dial
(27) down to approx. 3 mm. Use the center
needle position

.

stitch

–

ABC

ABC

–

5-

5-

–

0/1

0/1

1526/1536 – Standard buttonhole

• Insert the buttonhole foot and slide
the foot forward as far as it will go.

• Select stitch A. Sew the left side of the
buttonhole to the required length. Clip
the top thread after a few stitches.

• Select stitch B and sew a few bartacks
while holding the fabric securely.

• Select stitch C. Sew the right side
of the buttonhole until it matches the
previous side in length.

• Select stitch B and sew a few bartacks
while holding the fabric securely.

• Select stitch D. Secure the buttonhole
by sewing a few stitches.

• Carfully cut open your buttonhole.

Utility stitches and practical sewing

Standard buttonhole with gimp thread

To sew especially durable buttonholes,
on heavy fabrics, knits or sportswear, we
recommend using a gimp thread.

On knits the gimp thread is particularly
important to prevent the buttonhole from
stretching.

• Lay the gimp thread over the rear
protrusion A and pass the thread ends
underneath the presser foot towards the
front.

• Clamp the threads to the left and right
of protrusion B.

• Slide the buttonhole runner as
far forwards as possible and sew the
buttonhole as described for your select
model.

• Pull the loop of the gimp thread into
the buttonhole and cut the threads.

A

2:13

Tip: For À ne buttonholes, you can reduce the
buttonhole width with the stitch width dial
(27) down to approx. 3 mm. Use the center
needle position

.

B

Carfully cut open your buttonhole with scissors or
a seam ripper.

2:14

Utility stitches and practical sewing

Sewing on buttons

With zigzag stitch G/E (stitch width 4
mm) you can sew on two and four hole
buttons.

• Remove the sewing foot and lower the
feed dog.

• Turn the handwheel towards you and
move the button so that the needle enters
the left hole in the button.

• Now lower the presser foot lifter; this
holds the button in place.

• Sew on the button. Take care to ensure
that the needle also enters the right-hand
hole in the button.

Securing

• Select straight stitch by turning the
width dial (27) to 0.

• Change the needle position with the
needle position dial (28) so that the needle
enters one of the two holes.

• Sew a few securing stitches.

stitch

G

E

E

–

4

–

4

–

4

2-3

2-3

2-3

–

–

–

Utility stitches and practical sewing

2:15

stitch

3

0

G

E

E

3

0

3

0

3-5

3-5

3-5

0/1

0/1

0/1

Hemming with the twin needle

Use the twin needle to make beatiful
topstitch seams.

Using the twin needle you can add a
professional touch to hems on stretch
fabrics such as T-shirts, knitted articles or
cycling shorts both quickly and easily.

Twin needles are available in different
widths. The traditional width for
topstitching is 4 mm. To prevent the
needle from striking the needle plate, you
must make sure that you select the center
needle position .

• First fold and iron the width of fabric
desired for the hem.

• Then topstitch the hem from the right
side.

• Finally, cut the protruding hem edge
back to the seam.

Use only a stretch needle when sewing
stretch fabric!

Tip: On difÀ cult fabrics such as ribbed knit-
wear it is advisable to baste the hem before
topstitching it.

On page 1:11 you will À nd a description
of how to thread the twin needle.

stitch

3-4

0

G

E

E

3-4

0

3-4

0

3-5

3-5

3-5

0/1

0/1

0/1

Smocking effect with elastic threads

Fine, light fabrics such as Bastiste, rayon
and silk are particularly suitable for
beautiful smocking work. For smocking
work with the elastic thread, you should
use an additional bobbin case and wind
the bobbin by hand with the elastic
thread. As the elastic thread is much
stronger than the normal bobbin thread,
the tension of the bobbin case must be set
at very low.

Don’t forget, the higher the bobbin thread
tension, the more intense the gathering
effect.

• Sew a test seam to determine the level
of gather.

• Mark the À rst line on the right side of
the fabric and sew along it.

• Each additional seam can be sewn at a
presser foot’s width from the À rst row.

• When sewing several seams next to
one another, you must stretch the fabric
to its original length when sewing the
subsequent seams. Otherwise, the gather
will be irregular.

• Knot the threads at the beginning and
end of the seam on the reverse side.

2:16

Utility stitches and practical sewing

Gathering with the straight stitch

Using a straight stitch, you can gather
sleeves, skirts and valances with a stitch
length of 6 mm. To ensure consistent
gathering you should sew two or three
rows of gathering.

• Mark the À rst line on the right side
of the fabric and sew along it. Allow the
threads to extend approx. 10 – 20 cm.

• Each subsequent seam can be sewn
one presser foot width from the last.

• Gather the piece of fabric by pulling
the bobbin thread. You determine the
amount of gather by how much you pull
the thread.

• Finally, the thread ends are knotted to
secure the gather.

The three-groove cording foot (optional

Tip:

accessory) is very helpful for gathering. Due
to its guide grooves the elastic is fed evenly
during the sewing process.

stitch

G

E

E

0

6

0

6

0

6

3-5

3-5

3-5

0/1

0/1

0/1

Gathering with elastic thread

Sleeve and waist seams can be gathered
by sewing over an elastic thread.

• Mark the À rst gathering seam on the
reverse side of the fabric.

• Sew a few stitches using stitch M/F.
Leave the needle in the fabric. The needle
must be in the center of the presser foot.
Raise the presser foot and lay the elastic
thread around the needle.

• Lower the presser foot and sew a
few stitches. Then pull the elastic thread
evenly at both ends.

• Determine the amount of gather by
the amount you pull the threads.

• The gather can also be altered after
sewing by pulling the ends of the elastic
threads.

• Finally, knot the threads and elastic.

stitch

M

F

F

5-

5-

5-

Stretch

Stretch

Stretch

3-5

3-5

3-5

0/1

0/1

0/1

Utility stitches and practical sewing

2:17

D

C

B

E

stitch

G

0

F

E

E

–

0

–

0

–

2-3

2-3

2-3

6

Optional

Optional

G

Darning with the straight stitch

Insert the darning foot:

Loosen screw D. Set the needle at its
highest point and push the pin of the
darning foot fully into the hole C of the
sewing foot holder. When doing this,
the guide fork G should position itself
around the presser bar. The lever E must
be behind the À xing screw F. Now tighten
screw D.

Darning position:

A

Lower the presser foot lifter (A) while
pushing it lightly to the rear. This snaps
the presser foot lifter into a notch (B) on
the back side of the sewing machine into
the darning position.

• Place the darning work in the darning
hoop.

• Drop the feed dog.

• Pull up the bobbin thread and hold
the threads when you start sewing.

• Darn the damaged area by guiding
the fabric back and forth evenly in the
prescribed direction while ensuring that
each line ends with a small curve. This
helps to avoid the fabric ripping again.

• When you have À nished sewing the
damaged area, rotate the fabric again.

You determine the stitch length yourself
by moving the fabric back and forth.

Tip: If you move the fabric too slowly, small
knots will appear on the reverse side of the
fabric.

2:18

Utility stitches and practical sewing

Darning with the elastic stitch

Darn with the elastic stitch for repairing
damaged areas.

• Sew over the damaged area in rows
until it is well covered. Take care to
ensure that the rows overlap.

stitch

Repairing tears

On tears, frayed edges or small holes
lay a piece of fabric under the reverse
side of the fabric. The underlayed fabric
reinforces the workpiece and ensures
perfect repair.

• Lay a piece of fabric underneath the
damaged fabric. It must be a little larger
than the damaged area.

• Now sew over the damaged area.

• Cut the underlayed piece of fabric
back to the seam.

Sewing on patches

To cover larger holes is it necessary
to sew a new piece of fabric onto the
damaged area.

• Baste the new piece of fabric onto
the damaged area of the face side of the
fabric.

• Sew over the fabric edges with the
elastic stitch.

• Now cut the damaged area back to the
seam from the reverse side of the fabric.

5-

5-

5-

0,2-1,5

0,2-1,5

0,2-1,5

M

F

F

3-5

3-5

3-5

0/1

0/1

0/1

Utility stitches and practical sewing

Sewing on zippers

There are various methods of sewing
on zippers. For skirts, we recommend
the fully concealed zipper, for men’s
and ladies’ trousers the semi concealed
zipper. Various zippers are available.
We recommend using a metal zipper for
strong fabrics such as denim. For all other
fabrics we recommend a plastic zipper.

It is important for all types of zippers to
sew very close to the edge of the teeth of
the zipper. This is why it is possible to
insert the zipper foot either on the right or
the left of the presser foot holder.

You can set the needle so that it enters
close to the edge of the zipper teeth by
using one of the 15 available needle
positions. If the foot is engaged to the
right, the needle must only be moved to
the right. If the foot is engaged left, the
needle must only be moved to the left.

2:19

stitch

G

E

E

3

0

3

0

0

3

Left presser foot position

Right presser
foot position

3-5

3-5

3-5

4

4

4

2:20

Utility stitches and practical sewing

Fully concealed, sew-in zipper

• Insert the zipper foot on the right side.

• Baste in the zipper and lay it
underneath the presser foot so that the
teeth of the zipper run alongside the foot.

• Stitch in half of the zipper, leave the
needle in the fabric, raise the presser foot
and close the zipper.

• Now you can continue sewing the
seam up to the end of the zipper and sew
the cross seam.

• Sew the second half of the zipper
parallel at the same distance.

• Stop after the À rst half and leave the
needle in the fabric. Raise the presser foot
and open the zipper.

• Now you can À nish sewing the seam.

Utility stitches and practical sewing

The trouser zipper

• Iron the seam allowances, taking care
to ensure that the underlap extends by
about 4 mm.

• Baste the zipper under the underlap
so that the teeth are visible.

• Insert the zipper foot on the right side
and move the needle to the right needle
position

.

• Stitch along the edge of the zipper.

• Just before the end of the seam, open
the zipper and À nish sewing the seam.

• Close the zipper and baste the overlap
evenly to the other half of the zipper.

• Then sew through the basted seam.

Tip: To achieve a perfect seam, we recommend
using the edge guide.

2:21

2:22

Utility stitches and practical sewing

Stabilizing edges

With the hemmer foot you can hem
blouses, silk scarves and valances with
ease, without having to pre-iron the fabric
edges. The hemming prevents the edges
from fraying and a clean, durable edge is
the result.

• Fold the beginning of the fabric edge
over twice (approx. 2 mm)

• Lay the folded fabric edge underneath
the hemmer and sew a few stitches.

• Leave the needle in the fabric, raise
the presser foot and insert the fabric into
the hemmer foot scroll.

• Lower the presser foot and guide the
fabric evenly into the hemmer foot.

Take care that the fabric does not run
under the right half of the presser foot.

stitch

G

E

E

3

0

0

3

0

3

3-5

3-5

3-5

7

Optional

Optional

Tip: On silk

, Bastiste and chiffon fabrics,
the roll hem is particularly attractive with a
zigzag stitch

stitch

Utility stitches and practical sewing

Inserting lace

You can achieve a beautiful effect by
inserting lace, e.g. on babywear and
children’s clothing.

• First the lace is basted onto the right
side of the fabric.

• Sew on both sides of the lace at a
narrow margin.

• The fabric underneath the lace is cut
down the middle and ironed to the side.

• Sew over both edges of the lace with
a small, dense, zigzag stitch (stitch width
2-4 mm).

• Cut back the extra fabric.

2:23

G

E

E

2,5

0

2,5

0

2,5

0

3-5

3-5

3-5

0/1

0/1

0/1

Attaching lace

You can beautify and remodel home
textiles with lace as often as you like.

Here’s how it’s done:

• First serge the cut edges.

• Sew the lace onto the face side of the
fabric up to the À rst corner.

• Fold the corner and sew over it
diagonally.

• Sew the following sides in the same
way.

2:24

Utility stitches and practical sewing

Shell-edging

Shell-edging is attractive on thin, soft
fabrics such as silk and Bastiste.

It is often used as a decorative edging on
lingerie.

The higher the needle thread tension, the
deeper the shell edge scallop.

• Serge the fabric edge and iron the
seam allowance to the left.

• Take care that the fabric only runs half
underneath the presser foot while sewing.
This intensiÀ es the effect of the shell-
edging.

select

Tip: By sewing a col

ored woollen or 12 wt.
cotton thread into the seam you strengthen
the shell-edge while also creating an attractive
contrast in the seam. A À ne fabric of another
color can also be used instead of a woollen
thread.
Just lay the heavy thread against the edge of
the fold and let the zigzag swing of the stitch
catch the heavy thread forming a scallop.

4,5

4,5

4,5

1,5

1,5

1,5

K

I

I

4-5

4-5

4-5

0/1

0/1

0/1

3. Decorative sewing and
embroidery techniques

3:2

Decorative sewing and embroidery techniques

Decorative stitches

To enhance home textiles or garments,
select different stitches, using different
thread/fabric colors or vary length and
width of the stitches.

For decorative stitches we recommend
using special embroidery threads which
are available from your Pfaff dealer. Use
stabilizer under the fabric. This prevents
the fabric from pulling. Use a magic pen
or marking chalk to mark a line for your
À rst row of stitching.

The following recommendations apply to
all samples on the following pages.

The stitch length and stitch width can be
varied as required.

Always use the center needle position

if not otherwise indicated

stitch

stitch

-

5-

0,5-1

-

5-

0,5-1

-

5-

0,5-1

Stitch number

Stitch width in mm

Stitch length in mm

Dual feed on =

off =

Thread tension

Presser foot number

2-3

2-3

2-3

3:2

Decorative sewing and embroidery techniques

3:3

Borders with a combination of stitches

(only on select 1546)

By combining different stitches you can
easily achieve embroidery effects. This is
a simple way to embellish tablecloths and
garments.

• Place appropriate stabilizer under the
fabric.

• Mark the center with tailor’s chalk.

• Begin with the combination M/G
Stretch, stitch width 5

. Embroider along
the marked line. Then turn the fabric
and embroider back down the border in
reverse.

• Sew close to the À rst border with the
combination L/K Stretch stitch width

.

5

• I/F Stretch, stitch width 5 , completes
the border. Embroider one row. Then
turn the fabric and embroider back down
the border in reverse.

Combinations with colored thread

(only on select 1546)

Additional effects can be produced with
different colored thread. Multi-colored
thread was used for the middle border
in this example. You can purchase it in a
great variety of shades from your PFAFF
dealer.

• Place appropriate stabilizer under the
fabric.

• Mark the middle with tailor’s chalk.

• Begin with the stitch H Stretch, stitch
width 5

. Embroider along the marked
line. Then turn the fabric and embroider
back down the border in reverse.

• Sew close to the À rst border with the
stitch I/G Stretch, stitch width 2-4 mm.

• F/G Stretch, stitch width 3-4 mm
completes the border.

3:3

3:4

Decorative sewing and embroidery techniques

Monograms

You can embroider initials of your own
design using the darning foot and stitch G
(1546), E (1536/1526), stitch width 2.5-5 .

Sewing this way without a set pattern
does, however, require a little practice.

• Draw the initials onto the fabric with
an invisible-ink marker.

• Drop the feed dog. Insert the darning
foot and lower the presser bar into the
free-motion/darning position (see page
2:17).

• Place stabilizer under the fabric.

• Hoop the fabric in an embroidery
hoop and embroider using the zigzag
stitch.

• Tie off the threads and remove the
stabilizer.

Tip: By sewing quickly and moving the
material slowly, you will achieve dense
stitches.

When embroidering on terry-cloth, the
monogram must À rst be sewn with a
narrow zigzag stitch and then stitched
again with a wider zigzag stitch. This
way the terry-cloth loops are completely
covered.

Embroidering block letters is somewhat
easier. Here the feed dog is not dropped
which means that free sewing is no longer
necessary. You can simply sew along the
lines with stitch G (1546), E (1536/1526),
stitch width 2.5-5

.

• Place stabilizer under the fabric.

• Before sewing, draw the monogram
onto the fabric.

• Sew along the lines you have sketched
using the zigzag stitch.

3:4

Decorative sewing and embroidery techniques

3:5

Embroidering with a dense zigzag
stitch/Tapering

Tapering is easy with your select sewing
machine. By adjusting the width of
this dense zigzag stitch you can create
interesting embroidery.

Even embroidering

• Place stabilizer under the fabric.

• Set needle thread tension to
“buttonhole”, select zigzag stitch G
(1546), E (1536/1526), set stitch length to
“buttonhole” and select the center needle
position.

• Turn the width dial (27) smoothly
and consistently from 0 to 5

mm and
back again to 0 while sewing at a constant
speed through the procedure.

Note: If you selected the right or left needle
position, the stitch width will only change in
one direction.

Uneven embroidering

• Place stabilizer under the fabric.

• Set needle thread tension to
“buttonhole”, select zigzag stitch G
(1546), E (1536/1526), set stitch length to
“buttonhole” and select the center needle
position

.

• Increase or decrease the width of the
stitch using the width dial (27).

Note: If you selected the right or left needle
position, the stitch width will only change in
one direction.

3:5

3:6

Decorative sewing and embroidery techniques

Floral embroidery

For this Á ower arrangement, only a dense
zigzag stitch was used in combination
with the variable stitch width and the
various needle positions.

• Place stabilizer under the fabric.

• Draw the contures of a Á ower motif
with a self-erasing textile pen.

• Set needle thread tension to
“buttonhole”, select zigzag stitch G
(1546), E (1536/1526), set stitch length to
“buttonhole”.

• Flowers:

Select center needle position

and
embroider individual petals. Adjust the
stitch width with the width dial (34)
during sewing according to the contures
of the Á ower .

• Leaves:

Select right needle position

and
embroider half of the leaf. Vary the stitch
width using the width dial (27). Turn the
handwheel towards you after À nishing
the À rst half of the leaf until the needle is
in the fabric.

• Turn the fabric 180 degrees and
embroider the other half of the leaf

Embroidering corners

By changing the stitch width during
sewing of dense zigzag stitches you can
embroider corners with 45 degree angles.

• Set needle thread tension to
“buttonhole”, zigzag stitch G (1546),
E (1536/1526), set stitch length to
“buttonhole” and stitch width 5 mm.

• Select right needle position and
embroider a straight line.

• Embroider corner:

After the needle has penetrated the fabric
to the right, reduce the stitch width using
the width dial (27) by 0.5 mm to 4.5 mm.
Sew a stitch.

• Reduce the width once again by 0.5
mm and sew a stitch. Continue in this
manner until the stitch width is 0.5 mm.

• Turn the handwheel towards you until
the needle penetrates the fabric. Turn the
fabric 90 degrees and sew a stitch.

• Increase the width by 0.5 mm to 1.0
mm. Sew one stitch.

• Increase the width by 0.5 mm again
and sew one stitch. Continue in this
manner until the initial width is achieved.
Now embroider a straight line.

If the corner is to continue in the opposite
direction, use the outermost left needle
position

.

3:6

Decorative sewing and embroidery techniques

3:7

Decorative buttonhole

This buttonhole is a beautiful alternative
to the traditional buttonhole (see page
2:12-2:13). Since you determine the width
of the buttonhole seam, the buttonhole
can have a width of up to 10 mm.

• Sew two buttonhole seams about 1
mm apart using a dense zigzag stitch
(stitch G (1546), E (1536/1526), stitch width

mm). The needle thread tension is

3-5
set to “buttonhole”.

• Select the right needle position and
sew over both ends of the buttonhole
seam with a triangle. To do this, turn
the stitch width dial (27) during sewing
constantly from 0 to 5

and back to 0.
The top of the triangle should meet the
middle of both buttonhole seams.

Appliqué

Appliqués are quickly made and always
produce a beautiful fancy effect. By using
different fabrics and patterns you can sew
many different variations. You can make
a perfect, densely stitched seam with the
appliqué foot (special accessories), because
it has a special cutout on the underside for
the buttonhole seam. Use a fusible backing
fabric to iron the appliqué onto the fabric,
making it easier for you to appliqué.

• Insert the appliqué foot in the sewing
machine.

• Transfer your drafted pattern to the
face side, smooth side, of the fusible
backing fabric. Remember that e.g. letters
have to be drawn as a mirror image.

• Now iron the backing fabric onto the
appplqué fabric. Cut the motif out and
pull the paper off.

• Place and iron on the appliqué parts on
the base fabric.

• Sew over a appliqué fabric edges
with the dense zigzag, stitch G (1546), E
(1536/1526), stitch width 2-4 mm, stitch
length “buttonhole”. The needle thread
tension is in the “buttonhole” area. Make
sure the needle stitches over the outer
edge so that no fraying occurs later.

Tip: For appliqué pieces which are pointed
at the ends, you can make the zigzag stitch
narrower using the width dial (27) so that the
ends are pointed.

3:7

3:8

Decorative sewing and embroidery techniques

Richelieu

This artistic form of eyelet and insert
embroidery is easy to sew with your
sewing machine.

• Using a magic marker, draw your
motif onto the right side of the fabric.

• Then place two layers of water-soluble
stabilizer underneath the fabric to be
embroidered and hoop both the fabric
and the stabilizer into an embroidery
hoop.

• Insert decorative embroidery foot
number 1.

• To lend more durability to the
embroidery, sew all of the contours twice
using the straight stitch (stitch length
approx. 1 mm).

• Then carefully cut out the fabric 2 mm
next to the contour from the areas which
are to be hollow. The stabilizer must not
move.

• Embroider the contours with a dense
zigzag stitch.

• Finally, simply dissolve the stabilizer
in cold water and your one-of-a-kind
design is À nished.

3:8

Eyelet embroidery

Traditional eyelet embroidery which
previously had to be made laboriously
by hand can now be made quite easily
with the help of an eyelet plate (special
accessory).

This is very effective on blouses, bed or
table linen. Use utility stitches such as the
zigzag stitch, blindhem stitch, or elastic
stitch. .

For classic eyelet embroidery, use stitch G
(1546), E (1536/1526), with a stitch width

mm.

3-5

• Remove the presser foot. Set the
presser bar lifter at the darning position
(see page 2:17).

• Place the eyelet plate on the needle
plate, making sure pin A À ts in the
middle cutout of the needle plate. Then
push the plate down at the front.

• Place the marked fabric taut in an
embroidery hoop. Cut one or two of the
fabric threads and push the fabric over
the pin in the eyelet plate. The fabric must
À t snugly around the pin.

• Draw up the bobbin thread and hold
it for the À rst few stitches.

• Stitch around the cut with the selected
stitch. It is important to turn the fabric
slowly and evenly. The stitches should be
very close to each other.

• Afterwards secure with straight stitch.

Decorative sewing and embroidery techniques

3:9

Patchwork quilt

Patchwork and quilting are traditional
handicraft techniques which were
originally used by North American
pioneer women to make use of left-over
fabric. Over the years it has developed
into a creative hobby.

Traditionally patchwork was sewn by
hand. Today your creative ideas can be
realized in a much shorter time with your
select sewing machine.

A patchwork quilt consists of three
layers of fabric, two layers of fabric with
a layer of batting sandwiched between.
Many pieces of fabric are joined together
in patterns to form the top layer of the
quilt. This is tacked to a middle layer of
polyester or cotton batting and a backing
layer.

The quilt and patchwork foot (special
accessory – see page 4:4) is particularly
helpful for sewing patchwork and
quilting. The distance of the needle to the
outer edge of the foot is 1/4 inch (6 mm)
and 1/8 inch (3 mm) to the inner edge.

And this is how it’s done:

• Cut the pieces necessary for your
quilt top, making sure to include a seam
allowance of 1/4 inch (6 mm).

• Sew the pieces together as required by
the block chosen. These squares will then
be sewn together and will form the top of
the quilt.

• Baste the À nished top of the quilt onto
the batting and the bottom quilt layer.

• Use your Pfaff select model to sew all
layers together. Work from the inside of
the quilt out. Use a straight stitch for long
seams. Use stitches such as FG or L stretch
(select 1546) to add a decorative touch.

Experiment with other stitches on a
scrap of fabric. Contact your Pfaff dealer,
library, or bookstore for more information
on quilting.

3:9

3:10

Decorative sewing and embroidery techniques

Hemstitch seam

The hemstitch seam is an embroidery
technique and can be used to secure edges
on table linen as well as for decoration
on clothing. For hemstitching you will
require a wing needle and natural À ber,
woven fabric that you can easily pull
single threads. Lightweight darning
thread is particularly suitable. With the
stretch zigzag stitch you can sew various
hemstitching techniques such as the wale
hemstitch seam, a hem sewn with the
hemstitch and a hemstitch seam as an
edge. Use the decorative stitch foot 1.

Hem edge sewn with hemstitch seam

• Iron the hem over twice and pull one
or more threads out from above the hem.

• Using the stretch zigzag, stitch width
2-3 mm, sew the hem from the face side.
The needle must perforate the hem on
the right hand side and bundle the pulled
threads on the lefthand side.

Hemstitching seam as edge

This edge is used for very À ne, think
materials. It is great for valances and
rufÁ es.

• Using the Stretch stitch (G/E), width
2-3 mm, sew at a presser foot’s width
along the edge of the fabric.

• Using a small pair of scissors, trim off
the excess fabric on the hemstitch edge.

Wale hemstitch seam

• As with the hand hemstitch seam,
the threads are pulled out to the desired
width.

• Using stretch zigzag stitch, stitch
width 2-3 mm, sew along both of the
fabric edges. The needle must perforate
the area of the pulled threads just next to
the edges. This bundles the threads.

3:10

4. Maintenance and
trouble-shooting

4:2

Maintenance and trouble-shooting

Changing the needle plate

Switch off the main switch.

It is very important to clean and oil your
sewing machine, because it will reward
you with a longer service life. The more
often you use the machine, the more care
it needs.

Removal:

• Raise the sewing foot and remove the
removable accessory tray.

• Push the point of a small screwdriver
into the opening between needle plate
and sewing machine.

Twist it lightly to the right and the
needle plate will snap half way out of its
mounting. Now push the screwdriver
into the left opening and take the needle
plate out.

Replacing:

• Place the needle plate on Á at at the
back and push it down with both hands
at the front until you hear it snap in place.
Before you start sewing, check that the
needle plate is lying Á at.

Cleaning

Switch off the main switch

• Remove the needle plate and lower
the feed dog.

• Clean the feed dog and hook area
with the brush.

4:2

Maintenance and trouble-shooting

Changing the sewing bulb

Switch off the main switch

• Disconnect the mains plug and the
foot control plug from the machine.

• Take off the removable accessory tray
(15).

The sewing bulb is located inside the left
side of the sewing machine

Removal:

• Hold the sewing machine tightly.

• Push the bulb into its socket as far as
it will go.

• At the same time, turn the bulb a half
turn anti-clockwise and remove it.

4:3

Insertion:

• Insert the bulb in the diagonal socket
and turn it so that both stops of the bulb
engage.

• Now push the bulb fully into the
socket and turn it clockwise so that it is
held À rmly.

Note: The bulb changer (available as a
special accessory) will make changing the
bulb much easier.

Important!

The maximum allowed wattage of the
bulb with a plug-in socket is 15 watts!

4:3

4:4

Maintenance and trouble-shooting

Trouble-shooting

The machine skips stitches

The needle is not properly inserted. Push needle fully upwards, Á at side

The wrong needle is inserted Use a needle system 130/705 H.
Needle is bent or blunt. Insert a new needle.
Machine is not properly threaded. Check how machine is threaded.
Needle is too small for thread. Use a larger needle.

Needle thread breaks

See reasons above. See above.
Thread tension is too tight. Adjust thread tension.
Thread is poor or has slubs in it, or has

become dry after too-long storage.
Thread is too thick.

Needle breaks off

Needle is not pushed fully in Insert new needle and push fully in.
Needle is bent Insert new needle.

Needle is too thick or too thin

Needle is bent, and has hit the needle plate
because you are pulling or pushing the
fabric

The bobbin case is not properly installed When you insert the bobbin case, push

facing the back.

Only use good threads.

Use needle with large eye (System 130 N).

Insert new needle.
Let the machine feed the fabric.

Only guide the fabric lightly

it fully into the stop.

Seam is sewn unevenly

The tension needs adjusting Check top and bottom tensions.
Thread is too thick, slubbed or hard Only use perfect threads
The bobbin thread is unevenly wound Do not wind thread free-hand, but run

it on through the winding tension.

Thread bunching at top or bottom side of
fabric

Thread up correctly. Check needle and
bobbin thread tensions

4:4

Maintenance and trouble-shooting

Machine does not feed or feeds irregularly

Sewing lint has collected between the feed
dog teeth rows

Feed dog is lowered, slide A (see page

Remove needle plate, remove lint with
brush.

Push slide B (see page 1:15) to left.

1:15) at right.

Machine is running with difÀ culty

There are thread remnants in the hook

Remove the threads.

race

Important note!

Before you replace sewing feet or needles, you must switch off the main switch.
Do not start the threaded machine without fabric in it.
If you leave the machine, even for a short time, do not forget to switch off the main switch. This is
important if children are nearby.

4:5

4:5

4:6

Maintenance and trouble-shooting

Index

A

Accessories IV

Accessory tray 1:3

Appliqué 3:7

B

Blindhem stitch 2:5

Bobbin case 1:8-9

Buttonholes 2:13, 3:7

C

Changing the needle plate 4:2

Changing the needle 1:15

Cleaning 4:2

Closed overlock stitch 2:9

Covering stitch 2:10-11

D

Darning with the elastic stitch 2:18

Darning with the straight stitch 2:17

Darning 2:17-18

Decorative sewing 3:3-10

Drawing up the bobbin thread 1:12

Dropping the feed dog 1:15

E

Easy Select System 1:18

Elastic stitch 2:7

Elastic stitches 2:6-9

Electrical connection 1:2

Embroidering with a dense
zigzag stitch 3:4-7

Eyelet embroidery 3:8

4:6

F

Feather stitch 2:10

Free arm 1:3

G

Gathering with elastic thread 2:16

Gathering with the straight stitch 2:16

General information on sewing 2:3

H

Handwheel release disk 1:4

Hemming with the twin needle 2:15

Hemstitch seam 3:10

Honeycomb stitch 2:7

I

Inserting lace 2:23

Integrated Dual Feed / IDT 1:14

L

Left needle position 1:16

M

Main switch 1:2

Maintenance and trouble-shooting 4:1-4

Monograms 3:4

N

Needle thread tension 1:5,2:3

Needle threader 1:11

Non-elastic stitches 2:4-5

O

Open overlock stitch 2:8

Overlock stitches 2:8-9

Maintenance and trouble-shooting

4:7

P

Patchwork quilt 3:9

Pennant stitch 2:11

Placing sewing thread on
spool holder 1:5

Practical sewing 2:1-24

Presser foot lifter 1:13

Pullover stitch 2:9

Q

Quilting 3:9

R

Removable accessory tray 1:3

Removing the presser foot 1:13

Repairing tears 2:18

Reverse sewing 1:17

Richelieu 3:8

Right needle position 1:16

RufÁ er 3:7

S

Selecting needle position 1:16

Selecting stitch width 1:16

Serging with blindstitch and
overlock stitch 2:5,8-9

Serging with zigzag stitch 2:4

Setting stretch stitches 1:7-9

Setting utility stitches 1:7-9

Sewing light 4:2

Sewing on buttons 3:14

Sewing on patches 3:18

Sewing on zippers 2:20-21

Shell-edging 2:24

Smocking 2:15

Stabilizing edges 2:22

Standard buttonhole 2:13

Standard buttonhole with gimp
thread 2:13

Stitch density 1:17

Stitch length adjustment dial 1:17

Stitch selection dial 1:19

Stitch table VI

Straight stitch 2:4

Stretch triple straight stitch 2:6

Stretch triple zigzag stitch 2:6

T

Tapering 3:5-7

Thread tension 1:15

Thread cutter 1:12

Threading the upper thread 1:10

Top feed (Integrated
Dual Feed) 1:14

Top-stitching 2:3

Trouble-shooting 4:4

Twin needle 1:11, 2:15

W

Winding from the second
spool holder 1:6

Winding the bobbin 1:4-7

Winding through the needle 1:7

Z

Zigzag stitch 2:4

4:7

4:8

Maintenance and trouble-shooting

4:8

We reserve the right to change the machine equipment
and the ass ort ment of accessories without prior
notice, or make modiÀ cations to the performance or
design.

Such modiÀ cations, however, will always be to the
beneÀ t of the user and the product.

Please note that on disposal, this product must be safely
recycled in accordance with relevant National legislation
relating to electrical/electronic products. If in doubt
please contact your retailer for guidance.

VSM Group AB • SE-561 84 Huskvarna • SWEDEN

www.pfaff.com

412 92 07 - 26B • English • Inhouse production • © 2005-2006 VSM Group AB • All rights reserved • Printed in Sweden on environmentally-friendly paper