Singer CG-500 User Manual

MODEL CG-500

COMMERCIAL GRADE

SEWING MACHINE

WORKBOOK

Congratulations on the purchase of your new SINGER
Sewing Machine! This commercial grade sewing machine
is ideal for all types of sewing, including fashion sewing,
home decorating, quilting and crafts. Your machine is
designed to deliver the ultimate combination of power,
performance and durability.

This workbook has been created as a tool for learning
various sewing techniques, which you can apply to your
own projects. We are certain that your creativity will be

®

inspired, and that you will have many hours of sewing
enjoyment with this easy-to-use machine, feature-packed
machine!

Enjoy!

The SINGER

®

Education Department

SINGER® is a registered trademark of the Singer Company Ltd.

©

2004 Singer Sewing Company
All Rights Reserved.
Part # 640 5052550GK

Straight Stitching 1
Straight Stitch for Topstitching 2
Create Quilted Fabric 3
Speed Basting 4
Making Piping 5
Attaching Purchased Piping 6
Centered Zippers 7
Satin Stitch Applique 9
Lace Insertion 11
Button Sewing 13
Four-Step Buttonholes 15
Free-Motion Monogramming 17
Free-Motion Embroidery 19
Blindstitch Hem 2
Stretch Blindstitch Hem 23
Attaching Beaded Trims 25
Mending with Multi-Stitch Zigzag 26
Crazy Quilting 27
Seam Allowence with Stretch Blindstitch 28
Attaching Elastic 29
Sewing with a Wing Needle 30
Twin Needle Sewing 31
Applying Ribbon with a Twin Needle 32
Sewing on Leather 33
Narrow Hem 34
Gathering with the Cording Foot 35
Applying Trims, Cords & Braids 36
Shirring with the Gathering Foot 37
Using the Even Feed Foot to Sew Multiple Fabric Layers 39
Using the Even Feed Foot to Sew Plaid Fabrics 40
Using the Even Feed Foot to Sew Pile Fabrics 41
Sewing with the Side Cutter 42
Sewing with the Ruffler 44

Heavy Duty Commercial Grade

CG-500

Up to 1100 Stitches-Per­Minute Sewing Speed

Electronic Foot Control Guarantees consistent speed with no jump starts.

60% Stronger Motor The motor is stronger than a standard sewing machine

Steel Plate on Machine
Bed

Duratec™ Frame A SINGER® Exclusive. This provides rigid support and

Double Insulated Double insulation protects against electric shock by

Finger Guard Provides additional protection to keep fingers from

Machine sews faster than a standard sewing machine.

Includes a regulating dial that allows for slower speeds,
regardless of the pressure applied.

motor, which means it can sew heavyweight fabrics with
ease.

Sewing pins won’t damage the steel surface of the
machine free arm. This feature is particularly beneficial
for quilting.

helps prevent rusting.

creating a non-conducting barrier between the operator
and the electrical components inside.

getting too close to the needle area. This is especially
helpful and desirable for high speed sewing.

Utility Stitches A variety of stitches for fashion sewing, home dec and

quilting.

6mm Stitch Width Stitches can be set for a maximum width of 6mm.

Automatic Built-In
Four Step Buttonhole

Balance Adjustment Dial Guarantees control for even stitching of buttonholes, as

Infinitely Variable Stitch
Length and Width
Adjustment

Multiple Needle Positions Needle position can be changed for individual projects,

Horizontal Thread
Delivery

Buttonhole sewing is a 4-step simple process that
provides reliable results.

well as stretch and decorative stitches, regardless of
fabric type.

Settings for length and width can be adjusted as
desired, to suit any project.

such as inserting zippers or cording and topstitching.

The thread feeds into the threading path in a
horizontal direction, which keeps the thread from
getting too much twist.

Touch-N-Wind™
Declutch Bobbin Winder

Automatic Tension

Jam-Resistant Bobbin System This is a system in which the bobbin case actually

Top-Loading Drop-In Bobbin The bobbin conveniently inserts-no bobbin cases to

Needle bar easily disengages for winding the bobbin.

This system ensures stable stitch quality, whatever
type of fabric is being used.

floats above the hook, precluding thread jams. The
machine will not jam, even when sewing on sheer
fabric or no fabric at all!

remove or adjust. It is easy to monitor the thread
supply.

Extra-High Presser Foot Lifter There are 2 heights to the presser foot lifter. The

Thread Cutter Located for precise thread cutting, eliminating the

Automatic Pressure System

Twin Needle Capable Stitches can be adjusted for twin needle

Suction Cup Machine Base

Accessories

Self-Lubricating

25 Year Limited Commercial,
School and Home Warranty

Portable

Cabinet Mountable

SINGER

©

2004 Singer Sewing Company.

®

is a registered trademark of the Singer Company Ltd.

second height offers ¼” more clearance, which is
needed when placing multiple layers of bulky fabric
under the presser foot.

extra step of cutting thread with scissors.

This feature automatically adjusts the pressure for
sewing on fabrics from the lightest weight tricots to
the heaviest denim, to maximize feed accuracy.

sewing by just moving a lever.

Holds the machine securely to the table, even when
sewing at maximum speed.

Special Purpose Presser Foot
Buttonhole Presser Foot
Blindstitch Hem Presser Foot
Zipper Foot
General Purpose Foot
Feed Dog Cover
Finger Guard
Needle Pack
Bobbins

Because the machine is permanently lubricated,
there is no need to oil the machine, and no oil gets on
fabric.

Peace of mind knowing the machine has a 25 year
limited warranty.

Machine has a built-in carry handle, making it
easy to transport the machine.

Machine can be mounted into a cabinet.

All Rights Reserved.

Straight Stitching

The Straight Stitch is generally used to join seams or do topstitching. It is the
most basic of the stitches and is the most commonly used. For a longer stitch
or for thicker fabrics, lengthen the Stitch Length.

Machine Set-Up:

Stitch: Straight Stitch
Pattern Selector: A
Stitch Width: 1, no width
Stitch Length: 3-4
Presser Foot: General Purpose Foot
Needle Position: Center

Materials:

(2) 4” x 4” pieces of cotton, right sides together

Procedure:

Place fabrics under the foot, matching the raw
edges with the ⅝” seam guide.

Sew the length of the fabric.

Use the Reverse Button to reinforce the seam.

1

Straight Stitch for Topstitching

The Straight Stitch can be sewn “on top” of the fabric so that the stitches are
visible. This is different from using the straight stitch to join a seam hidden
inside the project. A topstitch provides a decorative touch while holding the
seam allowances flat. It is also sturdy and durable.

Machine Set-Up:

Stitch: Straight Stitch
Pattern Selector: A
Stitch Width: 1, no width
Stitch Length: 3-4
Presser Foot: General Purpose Foot
Needle Position: Center

Materials

(1) 5” x 5” piece of cotton

Procedure:

Press a 1” hem on one side of the edge.

Align the folded edge to the edge of the foot.

Sew.

Use the Reverse Button to reinforce the seam.

:

2

Create Quilted Fabric

Create your own quilted fabric with the Straight Stitch. Texture can be added to
plain fabric by just adding consecutive rows of straight stitches!

Machine Set-Up:

Stitch: Straight Stitch
Pattern Selector: A
Stitch Width: 1, no width
Stitch Length: 3-4
Presser Foot: General Purpose Foot
Needle Position: Center

Materials:

(2) 5” x 5” pieces of cotton with batting between the two fabrics,
creating a quilt-type sample

Procedure:
Sew diagonally from the top left corner to the bottom right corner.

Use the Reverse Lever to reinforce the seam.

Position the foot’s edge so that it rides on the previous row of stitching.

Sew successive rows using the edge of the foot to ensure even spacing and

straight lines.

Change the direction, sew diagonally from the top right corner to the
bottom left corner.

3

Speed Basting

Basting is used to temporarily hold fabrics together. Stitch length and tension
are adjusted to create a looser stitch. This stitch can easily be removed with a
seam ripper or simply pulled out.

Machine Set-Up:

Stitch: Straight Stitch
Pattern Selector: A
Stitch Width: 1, no width
Stitch Length: 5
Presser Foot: General Purpose Foot
Tension: Adjust the tension setting to a smaller number
Needle Position: Center

Materials:

(2) 4” x 4” pieces of cotton, right sides together

Procedure:

Place under the foot, matching the raw edges with the ⅝” seam guide.

Sew the length of the fabric.

Use the seam ripper to remove a portion of the basting, or simply pull the

bobbin thread to completely remove basting.

4

Making Piping

Piping adds a beautiful finish to projects such as pillows, sleeve edges, collars
and more. The design of the Zipper Foot allows for the needle to stitch very
closely to the edge of the foot. This is important when inserting zippers,
applying piping or when topstitching close to the fabric’s edge. Only the
Straight Stitch can be used when sewing with the Zipper Foot.

Machine Set-Up:

Stitch: Straight Stitch
Pattern Selector: A
Stitch Width: 1, no width
Stitch Length: 3-4
Presser Foot: Zipper Foot
Needle Position: Center

Materials:
5” x 6” home décor fabric
7” piping cord

Procedure:

Fold fabric, wrong sides together.

Place piping inside of the fold.

On the right side of the fabric, sew a straight stitch close to the piping.

Note: The Zipper Foot can be attached right or left, allowing for
the piping to be inserted from either side.

5

Attaching Purchased Piping

Attach pre-packaged piping to make a bold finish on home decorating
projects, crafts or garments.

Machine Set-up:
Stitch: Straight Stitch
Pattern Selector: A
Stitch Width: 1, no width
Stitch Length: 3-4
Presser Foot: Zipper Foot
Needle Position: Center

Materials:
(2) 3” x 6” pieces of home décor fabric
7” pre-packaged piping

Procedure:

Place fabric right sides together.

Place piping between the fabrics, matching the piping’s raw edge with

the fabric’s raw edges.

On the wrong side of the fabric, sew a straight stitch close to the piping.

Note: The Zipper Foot can be attached right or left, allowing for
the piping to be inserted from either side.

Piping Raw Edges

Stitching Line

Raw Edge of Fabric

6

Centered Zippers

There are several ways of inserting zippers. The pattern envelope of the
project or garment will designate the best type of zipper application, as well as
the length and type of zipper to use. Most applications require a zipper foot.

Machine Set-Up:
Stitch: Straight Stitch
Pattern Selector: A
Stitch Width: 1, no width
Stitch Length: For basting: 5
For stitching: 3-4
Presser Foot: Zipper Foot
Tension: For basting: loosen the tension
For stitching: 3
Needle Position: Start with needle in left position
The needle can be moved to the left or right. This will allow stitching closer to
the zipper than when the needle is in the center position.

Materials:

(1) 7” zipper
(2) 8” x 4” pieces of medium weight fabric
Transparent tape
Fabric glue stick

Procedure:

Place fabric under the foot, matching the raw edges with the ⅝” seam
guide.

Starting at the top of the fabric, baste 7”. Then change the stitch length
to 3 and finish seaming the remaining length of the fabric.

7

Press the seam open. Finish raw edges if necessary.

Apply glue stick lightly on the right side of the zipper.

Place the zipper face-down, so that the zipper’s coils or teeth are

directly over the machine-basted seam. Pin in place, if necessary.

Spread fabric flat, right side up and place ½” wide transparent or
perforated marking tape on top of the centered seam line. The tape
should be the length of the zipper (7” long for this exercise).

Replace the Standard Presser Foot with the Zipper Foot. Adjust the
foot to the left of the needle.

On the right side of the fabric, stitch around the zipper. Pivot the fabric
on the needle at the corners, using the edge of the tape as a guide.

Turn fabric to right side and remove the tape and the basting. Press.

8

Satin Stitch Appliqué

Satin Stitching is a series of closely spaced zig-zag stitches. Satin Stitching
can be used for monograms, embroidery and appliqué work to produce a
smooth satin-like appearance. Try a rayon thread for a smoother looking
finish.

Machine Set-Up

Stitch: Zigzag Stitch
Pattern Selector: B
Stitch Width: 2-3
Stitch Length: 0.5-1
Presser Foot: Special Purpose Foot (J)
Needle Position: Center

Materials:
2” x 3” cotton fabric for appliqué
2” x 3” fusible stabilizer
6” x 6” cotton foundation fabric
6” x 6” tear-away stabilizer

Procedure:

Press the fusible stabilizer onto the appliqué.

Fuse the appliqué onto the cotton foundation fabric.

(Fusing the appliqué into place will keep the appliqué from shifting
while stitching.)

Place a tear-away stabilizer underneath the fabric. (This is used to
ensure quality stitching when using dense stitches.)

Place the applique under the foot, so that half of the stitch will form on the
applique and half on the base fabric.

Sew around the applique.

Widen the stitch width to 4 and change the stitch length to below 1.

.

:

9

Sewing around the applique again, covering the previous stitching.
.

Sewing over an applique twice is not always necessary, however, it
does give a beautiful full-covered effect.

10

Lace Insertion

Insert lace into a special occasion garment or a home decorating project
to create a beautiful heirloom keepsake.

Machine Set-Up:

Stitch: Zigzag Stitch
Pattern Selector: B
Stitch Width: 2-3
Stitch Length: 1
Presser Foot: Special Purpose Foot (J)
Needle Position: Center

Materials:

5” x 3” of batiste
6” strip of lace
60-80 weight fine cotton thread

Procedure:

Spray starch and iron the lace and batiste.

Center the lace right side up, lengthwise on batiste.

Stitch lace to fabric by sewing a zigzag stitch down both edges of the

lace. Try to just clear the heading of the lace.

11

Carefully cut under the lace down the center.

Back side of fabric

Turn these raw edges back away from the lace, then finger press.

Finish fabric’s edges by sewing a small zigzag through all layers, being

careful not to catch too much lace.

Turn fabric over and trim excess fabric seam allowances away.

Note: A nice touch can be added by stitching a row of decorative
stitches down each side of the lace.

Lace

12

Button Sewing

Use your sewing machine to sew on buttons, snaps or hooks with ease.
This is especially helpful when making a large project where several
buttons need to be attached, such as a shower curtain that has button tabs.

Machine Set-Up:
Stitch: Zigzag Stitch
Pattern Selector: B
Stitch Width: Determined by button
(width between the holes is usually 3mm)
Stitch Length: N/A
Feed Dogs: Covered Feed Dogs
Presser Foot: Button Sewing Foot*
Needle Position: Center

Materials:

Home décor fabric or shirting
One 2-hole button
Liquid fray preventer

Procedure:

 Cover the Feed Dogs with the Feed Dog Cover.
(See your manual for more information.)

Fold fabric in half and place under presser foot.

Position the button on the fabric so that the holes in the button are

between the toes of the foot.

*The Button Sewing Foot is optional.
Check with your SINGER® Retailer.

13

Lower the presser foot to hold the button in place.

Turn the hand wheel forward, adjust so that the needle goes into the

right or left hole.

Adjust the stitch width dial to fine tune the swing of the needle into the
opposite hole.

Recheck the swing of the needle into the opposite hole and then use the
foot control to sew 5-6 stitches.

Before removing the button and fabric from the machine, set machine
to straight stitch. Leave width at current setting and stitch in place for
three stitches. This forms a tie-off on the back side to secure the
button.

Apply a liquid fray preventer on the backside of fabric on the knots.
Trim threads after they dry, being careful not to cut thread knots.

14

Four-Step Buttonholes

The built-in buttonhole is divided into four different steps. This simple process
provides reliable results for buttonholes on garments, home decorating projects
and crafts.

Machine Set-Up:
Stitch: Step One of the 4-step buttonhole
Pattern Selector: A
Stitch Width: Changes automatically
Stitch Length: Step #1 of Buttonhole Dial
Presser Foot: Buttonhole Foot
Needle Position: Changes automatically
(See manual for complete machine set-up for buttonholes.)

Materials:

Home décor fabric with interfacing or tear-away stabilizer
Disappearing fabric marking pen or tailor chalk (for marking size
of buttonhole)
Button (to establish length of buttonhole)
Liquid fray preventer

Procedure:

Fold fabric in half crosswise, with interfacing or stabilizer placed
between layers.

Lay button on fabric and mark the top and bottom of the button.
This will establish the starting and ending point of the buttonhole.

Place the fabric under the foot, matching the foot’s red mark with the
top mark on the fabric.

15

Turn Pattern Selection knob to Step One of the Four-Step buttonhole.

Sew, and the machine will stitch the right side of the buttonhole.

Stop sewing when the needle reaches the fabric mark which indicates

the bottom of the buttonhole.

Turn Pattern Selection knob to Step Two of the Four-Step buttonhole.

Sew 5 to 6 stitches, bartacking the bottom of the buttonhole.

Turn Pattern Selection knob to Step Three of the Four-Step buttonhole.

Sew, and the machine will stitch in reverse, making the left side of the

buttonhole.

Stop sewing when the needle reaches the fabric mark which indicates
the top of the buttonhole.

Turn Pattern Selection knob to Step Four of the Four-Step buttonhole.

Sew 5 to 6 stitches, bartacking the top of the buttonhole.

Cut open buttonhole and use a liquid fray preventer to reinforce the

buttonhole.

16

Free-Motion Monogramming

Monogramming adds a personal and professional touch to garments, home
decorating items and craft projects. When monogramming, the feed dogs are
covered, allowing for free-motion sewing.

Machine Set-Up:
Stitch: Zigzag Stitch
Pattern Selector: B
Stitch Width: 2
Stitch Length: N/A
Feet Dogs: Covered
Presser Foot: Embroidery/Darning Foot*
(or remove the foot completely )
Needle Position: Center

Materials:
Embroidery hoop
8” x 8” cotton with an iron-on interfacing
Fabric marking pen

Procedure:

 Using the fabric marking pen, draw the desired monogram letter.

 Place fabric in the embroidery hoop, making sure the fabric is taut.

 Place the hoop under the foot, positioning the needle over the starting

point of the monogram.

 Lower the presser foot.

17

Turn the hand wheel forward to bring up the bobbin thread though the
fabric. Sew a few securing stitches at the starting point.

Firmly hold the hoop with both hands.

Press the foot controller and guide the hoop so that the needle stitches

on the drawn letter.

Maintain a consistent sewing speed and move the fabric slowly.
Coordinate sewing speed and movement of hoop.

Note: When the feed dogs are covered, the fabric will not
automatically feed. Feeding of the fabric is controlled manually.

*The Embroidery/Darning Foot is optional. Check with your SINGER® retailer.

18

Free-Motion Embroidery

Free-motion embroidery is an elegant embellishment. The embroidery
can be extremely detailed, such as the embroidery on a bridal gown.
It also can be as simple as a row of flowers on kitchen linens.

Machine Set-Up:
Stitch: Zigzag Stitch
Pattern Selector: B
Stitch Width: 2 or smaller
Stitch Length: N/A
Feet Dogs: Covered
Presser Foot: Embroidery/Darning Foot*
or remove the foot completely
Needle Position: Center

Materials:
Embroidery hoop
8” x 8” cotton with an iron-on interfacing
Fabric marking pen

Procedure:

Using the fabric marking pen, draw the desired design or trace a simple
design.

Place fabric in the embroidery hoop, making sure the fabric is taut.

Place the hoop under the foot, positioning the needle over the starting

point of the design.

Lower the presser foot.

Turn the hand wheel forward to bring up the bobbin thread though the

fabric. Sew a few securing stitches at the starting point.

19

Firmly hold the hoop with both hands.

Press the foot controller and guide the hoop so that the needle stitches

on the drawn letter.

Maintain a consistent speed and move the fabric slowly. Coordinate
sewing speed and movement of hoop.

Note: When the feed dogs are covered, the fabric will not automatically
feed. Feeding of fabric is controlled manually.

*The Embroidery/Darning Foot is optional. Check the with your SINGER® retailer.

20

Blindstitch Hem

A Blindstitch Hem is a fast way to finish hems securely on skirts or pants.
It also makes a great choice when hemming large projects such as
curtains or bed skirts. Use matching thread to help the stitches blend into the
fabric, hence becoming “blind” or invisible.

Machine Set-Up:

Set-up for Step 1 (to finish raw edges)
Stitch: Zigzag Stitch
Pattern Selector: B
Stitch Length: 1.0
Stitch Width: 3
Presser Foot: Blindstitch Hem Foot
Needle Position: Center

Set-up for Step 2 (to baste the fold)
Stitch: Straight Stitch
Pattern Selector: A
Stitch Length: 4
Stitch Width: 0
Tension Dial: 2
Presser Foot: Standard Foot
Needle Position: Center

Set-up for Step 3 (to create the hem)
Stitch: Blindstitch
Pattern Selector: C
Stitch Length: 2-3
Stitch Width 3-4
Tension Dial: 2
Presser Foot: Blindstitch Hem Foot
Needle Position: Center

Materials:

Medium weight woven fabric

Procedure:

Sew a Zigzag to finish one of the fabric’s raw edges.

21

Fold under 1” and baste in place.

Position fabric with wrong side facing up, and turn the hem back to the

right side, creating a soft fold at the top edge of the hem. The bulk of
the fabric is to the left of the foot.

Begin stitching, making sure the forward stitches fall near the ¼” fold,
and the needle swing just bites into the fold, catching only 2 or 3
threads.

Note: Always use matching thread to help “hide” the stitches.

22

Stretch Blindhem

A Stretch Blindhem is a fast way to finish hems securely on knit projects.
The stitch will have moderate “give” when the fabric is stretched. The stitch
itself does not stretch. Use matching thread to help the stitches blend into the
fabric, hence becoming “blind” or invisible.

Machine Set-Up:

Set-up for Step 1 (to finish raw edges)
Stitch: Zigzag Stitch
Pattern Selector: B
Stitch Length: 1.0
Stitch Width: 3
Presser Foot: Blindstitch Hem Foot
Needle Position: Center

Set-up for Step 2 (to baste the fold)
Stitch: Straight Stitch
Pattern Selector: A
Stitch Length: 4
Stitch Width: 0
Tension Dial: 2
Presser Foot: Standard Foot
Needle Position: Center

Set-up for Step 3 (to create the hem)
Stitch: Stretch Blindhem
Pattern Selector: E
Stitch Length: 2-3
Stitch Width 3-4
Tension Dial: 2
Presser Foot: Blindstitch Hem Foot
Needle Position: Center

Materials:

Medium weight woven fabric

Procedure:

Sew a Zigzag to finish one of the fabric’s raw edges.

23

Fold under 1” and baste in place.

Position fabric with wrong side facing up, and turn the hem back to the

right side, creating a soft fold at the top edge of the hem. The bulk of
the fabric is to the left of the foot.

Begin stitching, making sure the forward stitches fall near the ¼” fold,
and the needle swing just bites into the fold, catching only 2 or 3
threads.

Note: Always use matching thread to help “hide” the stitches.

24

Attaching Beaded Trims

Adding a trim is an easy way to enhance almost any project! The look of a
denim jacket can be changed with a row of trim around the bottom edge. A
pair of capri pants can be dressed up by sewing a beaded trim around each
pant hem. Home decorating projects such as pillows, bedspreads or table
runners can have a “face-lift” by just adding a beaded trim.

Machine Set-Up:

Stitch: Multi-Stitch Zigzag
Pattern Selector: D
Stitch Width: 4-5
Stitch Length: 3
Presser Foot: Special Purpose Foot (J)
Needle Position: Center

Materials:

Beaded trim
Home décor fabric

Procedure:

Press and sew a 1” hem in the fabric, using a straight stitch.

Place fabric on machine with wrong side facing up.

Place trim header on fabric’s edge, right side facing down.

Sew on the the trim’s header.

25

Mending with Multi-Stitch Zigzag

The Multi-Stitch is a three-step zigzag stitch. It is stronger than a traditional
zigzag stitch and is used for mending, reinforcing a seam, darning, applying
elastic and many other techniques. It is ideal when mending tears.

Machine Set-Up

Stitch: Multi-Stitch Zigzag
Pattern Selector: D
Stitch Width: 2-5
Stitch Length: 0.5-1
Presser Foot: Special Purpose Foot (J)
Needle Position: Center

Materials:

2” x 2” denim square
5” x 5” denim, cut a 1” tear in center of denim

Procedure:

Use the small denim square as a backing to add reinforcement.

Stitch directly over the tear. Turn handwheel to lower needle into the fabric.

Pivot 180 degrees and sew again.

:

26

Crazy Quilting

Crazy Quilting is done by stitching scraps of velvets, silks, cottons, satins and
other fine fabrics onto a foundation fabric. The fabrics are various shapes.
The fabric edges are then embellished with decorative stitches, often done with
decorative threads. This technique is popular and can be used in wearable art,
home decorator projects and more.

Machine Set-Up

Stitch: Zigzag Stitch , Blindstitch Hem, or Multi-Stitch Zigzag
Pattern Selector: B, C, D
Stitch Width: Adjust according to preference
Stitch Length: Adjust according to preference
Presser Foot: Special Purpose Foot (J)
Needle Position: Center

Materials:

Fabric scraps
Foundation fabric or paper
Various decorative threads

Procedure:

Crazy-piece the scraps onto the
foundation fabric or paper, starting
from the center and working outward.

Select desired decorative stitch and center the stitching over the seam
lines.

Use rayon, metallic or other decorative threads, as desired.

:

27

Seam Allowances with Stretch
Blindhem Stitch

This technique is ideal for making an unlined garment or when the seam
allowances may show. All the edges are finished prior to construction. This
prevents raveling of the fabric and makes a professional finish on woven and
knit fabrics.

Machine Set-Up:

Stitch: Stretch Blindhem
Pattern Selector: E
Stitch Width: 5
Stitch Length: 5
Presser Foot: Special Purpose Foot (J)*
Needle Position: Center

Materials:

(2) 4” x 3” pieces of heavy woven fabric

Procedure:

Place one piece of fabric under the foot, aligning the fabric edge
so that the stitch forms just on the edge of the fabric.

Place the second piece of fabric under the foot, aligning the fabric
edge so that the stitch forms just on the edge of the fabric. Sew.

Change to the Standard Foot and set machine for a straight stitch.

With right sides together, join the two pieces of fabric with a ⅝” seam
allowance.

Open seam flat and press.

*The Overedge Foot is optional. Check with your SINGER® Retailer.

28

Attaching Elastic

Elastic can be applied directly to the fabric, such as when making lingerie.
If the elastic is ⅜” wide or less, the elastic can be placed into the General
Purpose Foot’s opening, making it easier to evenly stretch the elastic while
sewing.

Machine Set-Up:

Stitch: Multi-Stitch Zigzag
Pattern Selector: D
Stitch Width: 5
Stitch Length: 2-3
Presser Foot: General Purpose Foot
Needle Position: Center

Materials:

Nylon Tricot 4” x 8”
⅜” wide elastic strip, cut 7” long

Procedure:

Thread elastic through the needle-opening hole in the foot.

Pull 2-3” of elastic to the back of the foot, enough to firmly grasp.

Position fabric under the foot.

Sew, gently pulling the elastic while sewing.

29

Sewing with a Wing Needle

Use a Wing Needle to create a beautiful heirloom look on pillowcases, napkins,
or special occasion garments. A Wing Needle is very wide and makes a large
opening or hole in the fabric every time it stitches. Several different types of
stitches can be used. For best results, use a stitch with forward-back
movement, so that the needle penetrates the same hole more than once.

Machine Set-Up:

Stitch: Zigzag Stitch
Pattern Selector: A
Stitch Width: 1-2
Stitch Length: 3-5
Presser Foot: Special Purpose Foot (J)
Needle: Wing Needle*
Needle Position: Center

Materials:

Linen or other natural fiber fabric, spray-starched for added firmness
60-80 weight sewing thread
60-80 weight sewing thread in bobbin

Procedure:

Pull one or two threads to establish a guideline for stitching.

Stitch along the pulled threads. Notice the pronounced holes that are

created by the stitching.

Note: An alternative method is to trace a design onto fabric using
chalk, water-soluble or air soluble marker. (Use stencils, templates or
create a design.) Stitch along the drawn lines of the design.

* Wing Needle is an optional accessory. Check with your SINGER® Retailer.

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Twin Needle Sewing

By using a Twin Needle, two parallel rows of stitching can be sewn at the same
time. A straight stitch using a twin needle sewing creates a sporty hem on knit
wear, a sophisticated top-stitch or a decorative embellishment.

Machine Set-Up:

Stitch: Straight Stitch
Pattern Selector: A
Stitch Width: 1, no width
Stitch Length: 3-5
Presser Foot: Special Purpose Foot or General Purpose Foot
Needle: Twin Needle*
Needle Position: Center

Materials:

5” x 5” piece of medium weight fabric, with a stabilizer ironed on

Procedure:

 Insert the second spool pin.

 Both spools of thread follow the same threading path until they reach

the eye of the needle. Thread each needle separately.

 Slowly sew a row of stitching on the right side of the fabric.

 Maintain a slow consistent speed to ensure accurate stitching.

Note: When sewing with a stitch that has width (such as a zigzag or
decorative stitch) and the twin needle, always
not hit the foot, by turning the hand wheel manually.

*

Twin needle is an optional accessory. Check with your SINGER® Retailer.

test that the needle does

31

Applying Ribbon with a Twin Needle

By using a Twin Needle, two parallel rows of stitches can be used to
attach a ribbon while stitching.

Machine Set-Up:

Stitch: Straight Stitch
Pattern Selector: A
Stitch Width: 1, no width
Stitch Length: 5
Presser Foot: Transparent Satin Foot or Standard Foot
Needle: Twin Needle
Needle Position: Center

Materials:

5” x 5” piece of lightweight woven fabric, with a stabilizer ironed on
6” long piece of ¼” wide satin ribbon

Procedure:

 Insert the second spool pin.

 Both spools of thread follow the same threading path until they reach

the eye of the needle. Thread each needle separately.

 Insert the ribbon through the openings in the presser foot. Pull the
ribbon under the foot and then to the back of the foot.

 Slowly sew a row of stitching on the right side of the fabric.

 Maintain a slow consistent speed to ensure accurate stitching.

*Twin Needle is an optional accessory. Check with your SINGER® Retailer.

32

Sewing on Leather

Leather can add a bold accent to a garment, home decorating or craft project.
Leather does not ravel, so there is no need to finish the seam edges.

Machine Set-Up

Stitch: Straight Stitch
Pattern Selector: A
Stitch Width: 1, no width
Stitch Length: 3
Presser Foot: Special Purpose Foot (J)
or General Purpose Foot
Needle: Leather Needle*
SINGER PN#260-203286089S198, Wedge Point Needle
Needle Position: Center

Materials:

Fashion leather

Procedure:

Finger press a 1” hem in the leather.

Sew, using the seam guides to ensure straight stitching.

NOTE:

The optional Roller Foot or Even Feed Foot feeds the leather, vinyl or suede
through the machine more easily.

The Leather needle is optional. Check with you SINGER® Retailer.

*

:

33

Narrow Hem

The edge of a ruffle, the hem on a napkin and the edge of a prom dress are all
perfect examples of where it is beneficial to use the Rolled Hem Foot. The foot
has a “scroll” that helps roll the fabric’s edge over, hiding the raw edges and

creating a small professional finish hem. Soft fabrics roll best.

Machine Set-Up:

Stitch: Straight Stitch
Pattern Selector: A
Stitch Width: 1, no width
Stitch Length: 3
Presser Foot: Rolled or Narrow Hem Foot*
Needle Position: Center

Materials:

Medium to light weight fabric

Procedure:

Press a ⅛” hem to approximately 1 inch of the fabric’s edge.

Stitch the small hem into place with a straight stitch.

Leave the needle in the fabric, but lift the presser foot.

Guide the fabric into the scroll of the foot.

Lower foot and continue to sew, holding the thread tails firmly.

Hold fabric taut and slightly up to help the fabric to “roll” into the scroll.

*The Rolled/Narrow Foot is optional. Check with your SINGER® Retailer.

34

Gathering with the Cording Foot

This technique is great for heavy fabrics such as in home decorating or
textured fabrics that do not gather easily. The Cording Foot holds the cord
in place, so stitching is effortless. Adjusting gathers is easy, and there is no
danger that the cord will break in the middle of the project.

Machine Set-Up:

Stitch: Zigzag Stitch
Pattern Selector: A
Stitch Width: 3
Stitch Length: 3
Presser Foot: Cording Foot*
Needle Position: Center

Materials:

10” long strand of fine cord
Home décor fabric

Procedure:

Place a single cord in the center groove of the foot.

Secure the cord by tying a knot at the back of the foot.

Place the fabric under the foot.

Sew a test to ensure that the Zigzag stitches are sewing over the cord,

not into

After stitching is finished, pull the cord which will
draw up or gather the fabric.

Adjust the gathers evenly by sliding the fabric along the
cord.

Sew a straight stitch to secure the gathers into
place.

the cord. The Zigzag stitch is making a casing for the cord.

*The Cording Foot is optional. Check with your SINGER® Retailer.

35

Applying Trims, Cords or Braids

.

Use the Cording Foot to easily apply thin cords to add textured to wearable art
fashions or home decorating projects. The foot holds the cords in position, so
that it is effortless to stitch them into place. There are several decorative cords
available, each creating a different effect. Experiment with various cords and
stitches!

Machine Set-Up:

Stitch: Multi-Zigzag
Pattern Selector: D
Stitch Width: 3
Stitch Length: 3
Presser Foot: Cording Foot*
Needle Position: Center

Materials:

Three strands of thin cording
Home Décor fabric

Procedure:

Thread one decorative cord through each of the foot’s three grooves
or slots.

Secure the three cords at the back of the foot by tying a knot.

Place the fabric under the foot and sew.

The foot will hold all the cords in place as they are sewn into the fabric.

*The Cording Foot is optional. Check with your SINGER® Retailer.

36

Shirring with the Gathering Foot

Gathering fabric means to draw the fabric up on a thread to create fullness.
Shirring consists of three or more rows of gathers. Use only sheer or soft
fabrics for this technique. The specially designed Shirring Foot pushes fabric
into even folds under the needle. The stitch then holds the fabric folds securely.

Machine Set-Up

Stitch: Straight Stitch
Pattern Selector: A
Stitch Width: 1, no width
Stitch Length: 5
Fullness is regulated by stitch length
Tension: Increase the tension
Presser Foot: Gathering Foot*
Needle Position: Center

Materials:

Lightweight fabric, such as batiste

Procedure:

Pull one to two threads on the fabric’s crosswise grain, to create a
guide for straight stitching.

*The Gathering Foot is optional. Check with your SINGER® Retailer.

:

37

Turn the handwheel to ensure the needle is correctly positioned. It should
line up with the Gathering Foot’s needle opening.

Sew a row on top of the “pulled” line.

Use the foot's edge as a guide to sew the next row of stitching. Rows

will be ¼” apart if the foot is used as a guide.

Sew 3 or 4 more rows.

Do not clip thread ends until it is determined if any fine adjustments

are needed to make the gathers even-looking.

38

Using the Even Feed Foot
to Sew Multiple Fabric Layers

The Even Feed Foot has its own set of feed dogs that work in conjunction with
the machine’s feeding system to improve the flow of the fabric. This is particu­larly important when sewing several layers of fabric, such as in quilting. The
Even Feed Foot “pulls” the top layer or layers of fabric through at the same
speed as the machine’s feed dogs are pulling the bottom layer or layers of fab­ric, making for more even feeding!

Machine Set-Up:

Stitch: Straight Stitch
Pattern Selector: A
Stitch Width: 1, no width
Stitch Length: 3
Presser Foot: Even Feed Foot*
Needle Position: Center

Materials:

(2) 5” x 5” pieces of cotton with batting between the two pieces

Procedure:

Sew from one edge to the other.

The Even Feed Foot is optional. Check with your SINGER® Retailer.

Top Fabric

Batting

Bottom Fabric

39

Using the Even Feed Foot to Sew Plaid
Fabrics

Machine Set-Up

Stitch: Straight Stitch
Pattern Selector: A
Stitch Width: 1, no width
Stitch Length: 3
Presser Foot: Even Feed Foot*
Needle Position: Center

Materials

(2) 5” x 5” pieces of plaid or striped fabric

Procedure:

Match plaids, right sides together

Sew the two pieces together using the built-in seam guide on the

machine to maintain a consistent seam allowance.

*The Even Feed Foot is optional. Check with your SINGER® Retailer.

:

:

40

Using the Even Feed Foot to Sew Pile
Fabrics

The Even Feed Foot is great for sewing on fake fur for coat accents, costumes
or stuffed animals.

Machine Set-Up:

Stitch: Straight Stitch
Pattern Selector: A
Stitch Width: 1, no width
Stitch Length: 3
Presser Foot: Even Feed Foot*
Needle Position: Center

Materials:

(2) 5” x 5” pieces of fake-fur

Procedure:

Sew the two pieces together using the built-in seam guide on the
machine to maintain a consistent seam allowance.

Push the fur into the seam.

*The Even Feed Foot is optional. Check with your SINGER® Retailer.

41

Sewing with the Side Cutter

The side cutter is an attachment that will trim the excess fabric while sewing.
A Zigzag-type stitch must be used.

Machine Set-Up:
Stitch: Zigzag
Pattern Selector: B
Stitch Width: 5
Stitch Length: 1-2
Presser Foot: Side Cutter*
Needle Position: Center

Materials:

(2) 5” x 4” pieces of wool type fabric



Procedure:

Cut a 1” x 1” notch in the fabric.

The cutter’s blades “cut” before the needle stitches. Be sure to position
the fabric under the needle before beginning to sew.

Place the fabric OVER the first metal platform and UNDER the second
metal platform. If the cutter is not cutting, it is usually due to the fabric
not being placed OVER the first platform.

View: Looking down at cutter

Turn the hand-wheel to ensure the the needle does not hit the stitch
finger. The stitch width may need to be adjusted.

*The Side Cutter is optional. Check with your SINGER® Retailer.

42

Slowly sew and gently guide the fabric.

Adjust the stitch length according to fabric. Certain fabrics will cut

better or more cleanly than others. This is due to the nature of the fabric.

The cutter works best if not more than 1” is being trimmed away.

43

Sewing with the Ruffler

The Ruffler attachment quickly and easily produces professional looking ruffles
on garments, home decorating projects and craft items.

Machine Set-Up:
Stitch: Straight Stitch
Pattern Selector: A
Stitch Width: 1, no width
Stitch Length: 7
Presser Foot: Ruffler*
Needle Position: Center

Materials:

3” x 10” piece of lightweight cotton
3” x 5” piece of lightweight cotton

Procedure:

Set the Ruffler for the desired amount of “ruffles”.

Set the Ruffler for the desired depth of the ruffles.

*The Ruffler is optional. Check with your SINGER® Retailer.

44

Place the fabric under the Ruffler. Place fabric in the guide plate.

Remember to lower the presser foot lever.

Lightly push the cloth feed plate towards the back of the machine.

Place the longer piece of fabric under the foot and beneath the shorter

piece of fabric. Place right sides together.

Slowly sew. Watch the Ruffler feed the fabric to make even ruffles. The
bottom piece of fabric will feed slower than the top piece.

45