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Celebrity: Instruction Manual & Reference Guide
Celebrity: Instruction Manual & Reference Guide
INSTRUCTION MANUAL
& REFERENCE GUIDE
Simplicity Sewing Machine Education Helpline: 800-335-0025
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE USING MACHINE
When using the sewing machine, basic safety precautions should always be followed, including
the following:
DANGER - To reduce risk of electric shock:
1. The sewing machine should never be left unattended when plugged in.
2. Always unplug this sewing machine from the electrical outlet immediately after using and
before cleaning.
3. Always unplug before changing the light bulb. Replace bulb with same type rated 15 watts.
WARNING - To reduce the risk of burns, fire, electric shock, or injury to persons:
1. Do not allow this machine to be used as a toy. Close attention is necessary when the
sewing machine is used by or near children.
2. Use this sewing machine only for its intended use as described in this manual. Use only
accessories recommended by the manufacturer as contained in this manual.
3. 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, and
electrical or mechanical adjustment.
4. Never operate the sewing machine with any of the air openings blocked. Keep the ventila-
tion openings of the sewing machine and foot controller free from the accumulation of lint,
dust and loose cloth.
5. Never drop or insert any object into any openings.
6. Do not use this machine outdoors.
7. Do not operate this machine where aerosol spray products are being used or where oxygen
is being administered.
8. To disconnect, turn the main switch to the off position then remove the plug from the outlet.
9. Do not unplug by pulling on the cord. To unplug, grasp the plug and pull, not the cord.
10. Keep fingers away from all moving parts. Special care is required around the sewing
machine needle.
11. Always use the proper needle plate. The wrong plate can cause the needle to break.
12. Do not use a bent needle.
13. Do not pull or push the fabric while stitching. It may deflect the needle causing it to break.
14. Switch the sewing machine to the off position when making any adjustments in the needle
area, such as threading the needle, changing the needle, threading the bobbin, or changing
the presser foot.
15. Always unplug the sewing machine from the electrical outlet when removing covers,
lubricating, or when making any other user service adjustments mentioned in this
instruction manual.
Congratulations on being the owner of a new Simplicity sewing machine. Whether you’re
new to sewing, a lifelong sewer, or returning to sewing, we at Simplicity Sewing
Machines are dedicated to providing you with simply the BEST features, quality, and cus-
tomer service to ensure you many pleasurable hours of sewing satisfaction and success.
Before starting a sewing project, here are a few recommendations to help you become
acquainted with your new machine:
• Read through the instruction book and become familiar with the sewing
terms.
• Review the machine, using the instruction book as a guide, to identify each
part and function of the machine.
• Practice sewing on a variety of fabric scraps using various stitches and stitch
settings.
• • •
• • •
2
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Seaming light to medium weight knits ..................................19
KNOW YOUR SIMPLICITY SEWING MACHINE STITCH “B” KNIT BLINDHEM ......................................................20
PRINCIPAL PARTS........................................................................4-5 STITCH “C” THREE-STEP ZIGZAG ................................................20
ACCESSORIES .................................................................................6 Overcasting ..........................................................................20
Mending ...............................................................................20
SIMPLICITY SEWING MACHINE SET-UP Attaching flat elastic .............................................................21
PREPARATION FOR SEWING .........................................................7 STITCH “D” DOUBLE ACTION ....................................................21
ACCESSORY STORAGE ...................................................................7 Seaming nylon tricot.............................................................21
CHANGING PRESSER FEET.............................................................7 Encasing elastic ....................................................................21
Snap-on feet ...........................................................................7 STITCH “E” BLIND HEM...............................................................22
Screw-on feet..........................................................................7 Hemming..............................................................................22
FREE-ARM SEWING ........................................................................8 Folk art appliqué...................................................................22
PRESSER FOOT PRESSURE REGULATOR ........................................8 Decorative braid application.................................................22
DROP FEED ....................................................................................8 STITCH “F” FAGGOTING .............................................................23
LEVELING BAR................................................................................8 STITCH “G” SCALLOP HEM .........................................................23
STRETCH STITCH ADJUSTMENT. ...................................................8 STITCH “H” DECORATIVE TOPSTITCHING .................................23
STITCH “I” MULTI-CORD SEWING ..............................................23
CUSTOM STITCH SELECTION STITCH “J, K, L” BUTTONHOLE STITCH ......................................24
Classic buttonhole ................................................................24
STITCH SELECTION ........................................................................9
Corded buttonhole................................................................24
Stitch selector dial ..................................................................9
Stitch range dial ......................................................................9
Stitch width dial......................................................................9
BUILT-IN STITCHES – “S” STRETCH STITCH RANGE
Stitch length dial.....................................................................9 STITCH “A” TRIPLE STRETCH STITCH...........................................25
Reverse sewing lever ..............................................................9 Seaming bias curves .............................................................25
Needle plate seam guides .......................................................9 Seaming double knits............................................................25
STITCH SELECTOR TABLE .............................................................10 Triple topstitching .................................................................25
TENSION ADJUSTMENTS .............................................................10 STITCH “A” RICK RACK ................................................................26
Upper thread tension dial .....................................................10 Overcasting heavy fabrics .....................................................26
Lower thread tension ............................................................10 Decorative rick rack..............................................................26
STITCH “B” ARROWHEAD ...........................................................26
THREADING YOUR MACHINE Decorative flat fell seam .......................................................26
STITCH “C” HONEYCOMB ..........................................................27
WINDING THE BOBBIN...............................................................11
Attaching ribbon ...................................................................27
LOWER THREADING....................................................................12
Mock smocking ....................................................................27
Removing the bobbin ...........................................................12
STITCH “D” OVERCASTING .........................................................27
Inserting new bobbin ............................................................12
Attaching rib trim..................................................................27
Placing bobbin case in shuttle ..............................................12
STITCH “E” ELASTIC OVERLOCK .................................................28
UPPER THREADING .....................................................................13
Decorative ribbon casing ......................................................28
Raising the bobbin thread .....................................................13
Picot hem .............................................................................28
STITCH “F” FEATHER STITCH.......................................................29
SEWING
STITCH “G” DECORATIVE TRIM...................................................29
SEWING TIPS ................................................................................14 STITCH “H” DECORATIVE EDGING.............................................29
BEGINNING TO SEW....................................................................14 STITCH “I” CROSS STITCH...........................................................29
NEEDLE, THREAD & FABRIC GUIDE ............................................15
3
KNOW YOUR SIMPLICITY SEWING MACHINE
O O O O O 2 3 4 5
O 6 7
FRONT VIEW
O
8
O 1
O 17
O
9
O16
O
15
O
10
O
14
O 13
O 12
O11
O
18
O 24
O 23
O
19
O
20
O 22
O 21
BACK VIEW
4
KNOW YOUR SIMPLICITY SEWING MACHINE
FRONT VIEW
O
14 PRESSER FOOT HOLDER
O
1 FACE COVER
Opens to provide access to the light bulb and the
Holds the snap-on presser foot in sewing position.
The presser foot holder is removed when using
presser foot pressure regulator. screw-on feet.
O
2 BOBBIN WINDING TENSION DISC
Used when threading machine for bobbin winding.
O
15 NEEDLE PLATE
Supports the fabric while sewing. Has seam guide
markings on right side.
O
3 THREAD TENSION DIAL
Controls the upper thread for proper stitch formation. O
16 PRESSER FOOT THUMB SCREW
Secures the presser foot or presser foot holder to
O
4 STITCH WIDTH DIAL
Sets the width of a stitch.
the presser foot bar.
O
17 NEEDLE CLAMP SCREW
O
5 STITCH SELECTOR DIAL
Turn the dial in either direction to select a stitch.
Loosen to remove a needle; tighten to secure a
needle in position.
O
6 STITCH RANGE DIAL
Turn the dial to “N” (normal) to sew buttonholes
BACK VIEW
and stitches color-coded gray. Turn the dial to “S”
(stretch) to sew stitches color-coded red.
O
18 CARRY HANDLE
Simply lift to carry the Simplicity sewing
machine from one place to another.
O
7 BOBBIN WINDER SPINDLE
Winds thread on a bobbin for lower threading. O
19 PRESSER FOOT LEVER
Lift to raise the presser foot and release the thread
O
8 HAND WHEEL
Turn the hand wheel toward you to raise the
tension; lower to lower the presser foot and engage
the thread tension.
needle up and down.
O
20 THREAD CUTTER ON NEEDLE BAR
O
9 REVERSE LEVER
Press this lever down and hold in place to sew in
Use to cut threads after completing a seam.
reverse. O
21 POWER CORD RECEPTACLE
Connect the three-prong power plug here.
O
10 STITCH LENGTH DIAL
Sets the length of the stitch. O
22 MAIN SWITCH
Turns the main power and built-in sewing light
O
11 FREE-ARM COVER
Provides a flat surface for most sewing. Remove
on or off.
5
KNOW YOUR SIMPLICITY SEWING MACHINE
ACCESSORIES
The SIMPLICITY sewing machine comes
with the presser feet and accessories you
O
1 ALL-PURPOSE PRESSER FOOT - snap-on
Use for most straight and zigzag seams. The needle opening
will need, conveniently stored in the free is rectangular to accommodate the swing of the needle in a
zigzag stitch. (The machine comes with this foot already
arm cover. This low shank machine uses attached.)
snap-on or screw-on presser feet.
O
2 BUTTONHOLE PRESSER FOOT - snap-on
Use for sewing made-to-measure buttonholes.
O
1 O
3 BUTTON ATTACHING PRESSER FOOT - snap-on
Holds flat buttons secure for machine stitching in place.
O
4 ZIPPER PRESSER FOOT - screw-on
Adjusts to stitch close to either side of the zipper without
O
2 catching the zipper coil.
O
5 BLIND HEM FOOT - snap-on
O
3 O
4
Features an adjustable guide for positioning and evenly
stitching blind hems, topstitching, or edgestitching.
O
6 O
6 OPEN TOE SATIN STITCH FOOT - snap-on
Satin stitching glides comfortably under the sole of this
foot and the open toe provides clear visibility of stitches.
O
7 OVERCASTING FOOT - snap-on
O
5
O
9
A pin on the foot holds fabric flat when overcasting fab-
ric edges. The guide ensures perfect sewing alignment.
O
8 HEMMER FOOT - snap-on
Rolls fabric edge for narrow hemming.
O
8
O
9 EMBROIDERY FOOT - screw-on
Prevents fabric from “flagging” or popping when sewing
free-motion techniques.
O
11
O
10 CORDING FOOT - snap-on
Grooves on the foot guide lightweight cords under the
O
7 stitches for decorative applications.
O
11 BOBBINS
O
10
Hold lower thread. These are “Class 15” bobbins.
O
12 SEAM RIPPER
O12 Use to remove stitching and to open buttonholes.
O
13 SCREWDRIVER
Use to loosen and tighten the presser foot thumb screw,
O
13 needle clamp screw, and needleplate screw.
O
14 FELT CUSHIONS
Fit on the spool pin beneath the thread spool, stabilizing
the spool and preventing the thread from wrapping
around the spool pin.
O
15
O 15 NEEDLES
The most commonly used “universal” needles, size #11 and
O
14 #14, are included. This machine uses 15x1 household
sewing machine needles.
6
SIMPLICITY SEWING MACHINE SET-UP
The Simplicity sewing machine has many conversion options for a multitude of sewing
applications.
ACCESSORY STORAGE
Accessories and presser feet are conveniently stored in
the free-arm cover.
Grasp the free-arm cover with your left hand and gently
pull up and toward you to open the storage tray [Fig.3].
7
SIMPLICITY SEWING MACHINE SET-UP OPTIONS
CONVERTING TO FREE-ARM SEWING
Free arm sewing makes it easy to sew hard to reach
areas such as sleeves, pant legs, and necklines.
To convert to free arm sewing, grasp the left end of the
free-arm cover and pull it out to the left to remove [Fig. 1].
Slip the sleeve or pant leg on the free arm as shown and
sew [Fig. 2].
Fig. 1 Fig. 2
PRESSER FOOT PRESSURE REGULATOR
The pressure on the presser foot can be adjusted to accom-
modate sewing on various weights of fabric to ensure
proper fabric feeding and to eliminate skipped stitches.
1. Open the face cover [Fig. 3].
2. Move the lever until the desired pressure number is
displayed in the opening of the lever [Fig. 4]. Standard
setting is 2. To increase pressure move to a higher
number. To decrease pressure move to a lower number. Fig. 3 Fig. 4
Set lever at 1 for heavyweight fabrics
Set lever at 2 for mediumweight fabrics
Set lever at 3 for lightweight fabrics
Set the lever at 0 for darning and free-motion sewing.
DROP FEED
The drop feed mechanism lowers the feed teeth below the
needleplate. This eliminates the need to make stitch length
Fig. 5 Fig. 6
adjustments. When the feed teeth are lowered, the fabric is
guided by hand, allowing free movement of the fabric in
any direction.
1. Turn the handwheel toward you to raise the needle to
its highest position.
2. Open the face cover and set the presser foot pressure
regulator to 0.
3. Remove the free arm cover and open the front bobbin
cover [Fig. 5].
4. Push down on the drop feed lever and the feed teeth Fig. 7
will drop below the needle plate [Fig. 6].
5. Push the lever up to return to normal sewing. STRETCH STITCH ADJUSTMENT
When stitches sewn at the stretch “S” settings are not
properly forming, turn the adjustment screw with a
LEVELING BAR
screwdriver as shown below.
If the machine is not sitting on a level surface turn the
leveling screw to stabilize the machine.
1. Remove the free arm to access the screw under the
leveling bar [Fig. 7].
2. Turn the screw to the right to lower the machine.
Turn the screw to the left to elevate the machine.
8
SIMPLICITY CUSTOM STITCH SELECTION
Each built-in stitch can be customized by making stitch length and stitch width adjustments.
The stitches are color-coded to correspond with the stitch length and width settings. Select a
stitch, then set the stitch length and width dials within the color range. These color ranges are
guidelines and may vary for some sewing techniques.
STITCH SELECTION
STITCH SELECTOR DIAL [Fig. 1]
To select a stitch, turn the stitch selector dial so the letter
that corresponds with the letter above or below each
stitch illustration is aligned with the indicator dot.
9
SIMPLICITY CUSTOM STITCH SELECTION
RANGE STITCH PATTERN STITCH STITCH PRESSER DROP
WIDTH LENGTH FOOT FEED
N A Straight 0 0-4 All feet Up/Down
N A Zigzag 1-5 0-4 All-purpose Up/Down
N B Knit blindhem 3-5 4 Blind hem Up
N C 3-step zigzag 3-5 3 All-purpose Up
N D Double action 3-5 3-4 All-purpose Up
N E Woven blind hem 3-5 4 Blind hem Up
N F,G,H,I Decorative 3-5 2-4 Open toe Up
N J,K,L Buttonhole 3-5 0-1 Buttonhole Up
1
4
2
3
S A Triple stretch straight 0 3-4 All-purpose Up
S A Rick rack 2-5 2-4 All-purpose Up
S B Arrowhead 3-5 3 All-purpose Up
S C Honeycomb 3-5 2-4 All-purpose Up
S D Overcasting 3-5 3-4 Overcast Up
S E Elastic overlock 3-5 3-4 All-purpose Up
S F,G,H,I Decorative 3-5 2-4 Open toe Up
TENSION ADJUSTMENTS
The upper thread tension dial controls the amount of needle
thread delivered to the bobbin case. Most thread tension
adjustments should be made using the upper thread ten-
sion dial. In some cases, the lower thread tension on the
bobbin case may need to be adjusted for specialty
sewing techniques.
Fig. 1 Fig. 2
UPPER THREAD TENSION
The numbers 0-9 on the dial represent upper thread Upper thread too tight Upper thread too loose
tension settings. The higher the number, the stronger the
upper tension. Tension settings between 3-5 are most
commonly used [Fig. 1]. In a balanced stitch, needle
thread and bobbin thread interlock in the center of the
two fabric layers [Fig. 2]. If needed, adjust an unbalanced
stitch by turning the dial until the new setting is aligned
with the indicator line on the machine [Fig. 1].
Fig. 3 Fig. 4
If the fabric gathers or the threads break, the upper thread
tension is too tight [Fig. 3]. Loosen the tension by moving
the dial to a lower number.
If loops form on the top side of the seam then the upper
tension is too loose [Fig. 4]. Tighten the upper tension by
turning the dial to a higher number.
10
THREADING YOUR SIMPLICITY SEWING MACHINE
For best sewing results, use a top quality, long staple, polyester or poly/cotton thread for all-purpose
sewing. Skipped stitches, broken threads, and poor stitch quality are often a result of using old or inferior
thread. Use the same type of thread for both upper and lower threading for a consistent stitch quality.
Fig. 5 Fig. 6
Fig. 7 Fig. 8
Fig. 9 Fig. 10
11
THREADING YOUR SIMPLICITY SEWING MACHINE
LOWER THREADING
Removing the bobbin from the bobbin case:
1. Turn the handwheel toward you to raise the needle to
its highest position.
2. Remove the free-arm cover and open the bobbin
cover [Fig. 1].
3. Open the hinged latch of the bobbin case and pull
the bobbin case out of the machine [Fig. 2].
4. Release the latch to remove the bobbin [Fig. 3]. Fig. 1 Fig. 2
Fig. 9 Fig. 10
12
THREADING YOUR SIMPLICITY SEWING MACHINE
UPPER THREADING
1. Turn the handwheel toward you to raise the take-up
lever to its highest position [Fig. 1].
2. Raise the presser foot to release the thread tension
[Fig. 2].
3. Place felt cushion on spool pin. Place a spool of
thread on the spool pin with the thread coming from
the back of the spool [Fig. 3].
Fig. 1 4. Snap the thread into the first thread guide at the top
of the machine [Fig. 4].
5. Bring the thread down between the tension discs [Fig. 5].
6. Bring the thread down the right slot of the threading
path, then across to and up the left slot [Fig. 6].
7. Bring the thread through the take-up lever from right
to left [Fig. 7], making sure the thread falls in front of
the finger and under the take-up lever slot [Fig. 8].
8. Bring the thread back down the left slot of the
Threading Diagram Fig. 2 Fig. 3 threading path [Fig. 9] and into the thread guide
above the needle [Fig. 10].
9. Thread the needle eye from front to back [Fig. 11].
(Clip the thread end with sharp scissors for easier
needle threading.)
13
SEWING
Several synchronized parts of the sewing machine interact to form a stitch. The needle moves up
and down as the shuttle spins in perfect time so that the bobbin thread interlocks with the needle
thread through the layers of fabric. To maintain this perfectly tuned timing, here are a few sewing
tips you'll want to follow:
SEWING TIPS
• Always begin sewing with the needle in the highest
position. Always place the needle in the highest position
at the end of a seam before removing the fabric from the
machine.
• Always turn the handwheel toward you, not away
from you. Never “rock” the handwheel.
• Be sure to lower the presser foot before sewing to Fig. 1
engage the tension discs for perfect stitch balance. This
is an easy step to miss when sewing extra thick fabrics.
• Gently guide the fabric as you sew; never push or
pull the fabric under the needle.
• Don't sew over pins. Simply remove the pins as they
approach the needle. Sewing over pins can damage
your machine, nick the needle or cause personal injury.
• Use the proper needle/thread/fabric combination.
See chart on page 15.
Fig. 2
BEGINNING TO SEW
1. Select a stitch. Make the appropriate stitch width
and length adjustments.
2. Turn the hand wheel toward you to raise the needle
to its highest position.
3. Raise the presser foot and pull about six inches of
thread to the back of the machine and under the
presser foot. Fig. 3
4. Place the fabric under the presser foot aligning the
cut edge of the fabric with the seam guide marking
on the needle plate. Position the fabric so the needle
is about 3/8” from the beginning fabric edge [Fig. 1].
5. Lower the presser foot and depress the foot controller to
begin sewing. The sewing speed is determined by the
amount of pressure you apply to the foot controller.
6. To secure the beginning of a seam, take 3-4 stitches
forward, then push down and hold the reverse lever
Fig. 4
to take 3-4 stitches in reverse.
7. Release the lever and continue sewing forward at a
consistent speed while guiding the fabric along the 10. Raise the presser foot and gently pull the fabric to
seam guide marking. the left, releasing at least six inches of thread
8. At the end of the seam, press and hold the reverse from needle and bobbin [Fig. 3].
lever to take 3-4 backstitches to secure the seam end. 11. Use the thread cutter on the back of the presser
9. Before removing the fabric raise the needle to the foot bar to cut both threads close to the fabric
highest position [Fig. 2]. [Fig. 4].
14
SEWING
NEEDLE, THREAD & FABRIC GUIDE
Knit Fabrics NEEDLE STYLE NEEDLE SIZE
15
BUILT-IN STITCHES – “N” NORMAL RANGE
STITCH “A” - STRAIGHT STITCH
SEAMING
Use for seaming two or more layers of fabric together.
RANGE STITCH WIDTH LENGTH FOOT
N A 0 3 All-purpose
BASTING
Use a basting stitch to sew temporary seams. It is ideal
to use when you need to test fit a garment before Fig. 3 Fig. 4
sewing the seams permanently.
RANGE STITCH WIDTH LENGTH FOOT
N A 0 4 All-purpose
Align the fabric edge with the seam guide markings and
sew at a consistent speed. Do not backstitch at the
beginning or end of the seam. After completing the
permanent seam, pull the basting stitch bobbin thread
to remove the basting stitches [Fig. 5]. Fig. 6
Fig. 5
16
BUILT-IN STITCHES – “N” NORMAL RANGE
STITCH “A” - STRAIGHT STITCH
GATHERING
Create beautiful ruffles and flounces with the gathering
technique.
RANGE STITCH WIDTH LENGTH FOOT
N A 0 4 All-purpose
ZIPPER INSERTION
The zipper foot is designed to allow you to sew close to
raised edges. Easily and accurately insert zippers and
covered cording or piping in seams using the zipper foot.
RANGE STITCH WIDTH LENGTH FOOT
Fig. 3 Fig. 4
N A 0 3 Zipper foot
PIPING INSERTION
Add decorative detail to home decorating projects and
create designer fashion looks by inserting covered cord
or purchased piping within seams.
Fig. 7
RANGE STITCH WIDTH LENGTH FOOT
N A 0 3 Zipper foot
Attach the zipper foot and adjust the sliding foot to the
right side of the needle. Baste the cord or piping to the
right side of one fabric piece along the seamline, using
the longest stitch length setting of 4 [Fig. 6].
Place the second layer of fabric with the first layer, right
sides together. Shorten the stitch length to 3 and stitch
the seam close to the piping.
17
BUILT-IN STITCHES – “N” NORMAL RANGE
STITCH “A” - STRAIGHT STITCH
NARROW HEMMING
The narrow hem foot actually rolls the fabric edge to create
a narrow hem for napkins, ruffles, scarves, and dainty hem
finishes on clothing.
RANGE STITCH WIDTH LENGTH FOOT
N A 0 3 Hemmer
BARTACKING
This stitch is excellent for reinforcing pocket corners and
belt loops. Because the feed teeth are lowered, there is
no need to make stitch length adjustments.
RANGE STITCH WIDTH DROP FEED FOOT
N A 4-5 Lowered All-purpose
Determine the location for the bar tack and position the Fig. 5 Bartack
18
BUILT-IN STITCHES – “N” NORMAL RANGE
STITCH “A” - ZIGZAG
SATIN STITCH APPLIQUÉ
Use this popular, zigzag stitch creatively to sew appliqués.
RANGE STITCH WIDTH LENGTH FOOT
N A 3-5 0.5-1 Open toe
ATTACHING BUTTONS
Use this foot to quickly and securely attach flat buttons.
RANGE STITCH WIDTH DROP FEED FOOT
N A 5 Lowered Button attaching
SEAMING KNITS
A narrow zigzag stitch is very flexible and durable making
it suitable for medium to lightweight knit fabrics.
RANGE STITCH WIDTH LENGTH FOOT
N A 2 2-3 All-purpose
Fig. 5 Fig. 6
Align the edge of the fabric with the seam guide markings
on the needle plate and sew the seam being careful not
to stretch the fabric as you sew [Fig. 5].
19
BUILT-IN STITCHES – “N” NORMAL RANGE
STITCH “B” - KNIT BLINDHEM
KNIT BLINDHEMMING
The zigzag in this blindhem stitch adds stretch, making it
the perfect choice for hemming knits. Use a thread color
that matches the fabric color for the best results.
RANGE STITCH WIDTH LENGTH FOOT
N B 3-5 4 Blindhem
MENDING
Use the three-step zigzag to repair small rips and tears.
RANGE STITCH WIDTH LENGTH FOOT
N C 3-5 0.5-1.5 All-purpose
Fig. 5 Mending
Place a stabilizer under the tear in the fabric. Sew
along the line of the tear [Fig. 5]. The stitch joins both
sides of the tear.
20
BUILT-IN STITCHES – “N” NORMAL RANGE
STITCH “C” - THREE-STEP ZIGZAG
ATTACHING FLAT ELASTIC
RANGE STITCH WIDTH LENGTH FOOT
N C 3-5 2-3 All-purpose
ENCASING ELASTIC
Create casings for 1/8” narrow elastic in minutes for
waistbands, cuffs, and craft items.
Fig. 4 Fig. 5
RANGE STITCH WIDTH LENGTH FOOT
N D 5 4 All-purpose
21
BUILT-IN STITCHES – “N” NORMAL RANGE
STITCH “E” - BLINDHEM
BLINDHEMMING
Use a thread color that matches the fabric color for the
best results.
RANGE STITCH WIDTH LENGTH FOOT
N E 3-5 4 Blindhem
22
BUILT-IN DECORATIVE STITCHES – “N” NORMAL RANGE
Topstitching is one of the easiest and most attractive ways to use decorative stitches. Experiment using
metallic, rayon, and variegated threads for additional detail.
23
BUILT-IN STITCHES – “N” NORMAL RANGE
BUTTONHOLE STITCH
CLASSIC BUTTONHOLES
Your Simplicity sewing machine makes made-to-measure Fixing screw
buttonholes in four easy steps. Posts Button
J K L
1 STITCH WIDTH STITCH LENGTH PRESSER FOOT
2
4 3 Yellow range Yellow range Buttonhole
1. Select stitch “J”. Sew until the needle returns to the Fig. 3 Fig. 4
back of the presser foot [Fig. 4]. Raise the needle to
its highest position.
2. Select stitch “K”. Sew several stitches to make the
first bar tack of the buttonhole, then raise the needle
to its highest position.
3. Select stitch “L”. Sew until the white posts meet the
fixing screw post [Fig. 5]. Raise the needle to its
highest position.
4. Select stitch “K”. Sew the final bartack . Fig. 5 Fig. 6
24
BUILT-IN STITCHES – “S” STRETCH RANGE
STITCH “A” - TRIPLE STRETCH STRAIGHT
SEAMING BIAS CURVES
The triple stitch action of the stretch straight stitch offers
flexible and durable seams. Use it to sew stress areas
such as the crotch seams in pants or the sleeve under-
arm area.
RANGE STITCH WIDTH LENGTH FOOT
S A 0 3-4 All-purpose
TRIPLE TOPSTITCHING
Use this stitch for a bold, contrasting topstitch.
Fig. 3 Triple topstitch RANGE STITCH WIDTH LENGTH FOOT
S A 0 3-4 All-purpose
Stitch 1/4” away from the finished edge of the fabric. Use
the outer edge of the all-purpose presser foot as a guide
[Fig. 3] or use the adjustable blindhem foot as described
on page 16 under Topstitching and Edgestitching.
25
BUILT-IN STITCHES – “S” STRETCH RANGE
Position the fabric under the presser foot and guide the
fabric so the right swing of the stitch forms just inside
the edge of the fabric [Fig. 1]. Fig. 1 Overcasting heavy fabrics
Test the position by turning the handwheel toward you and
manually “walking” the needle before you begin sewing.
26
BUILT-IN STITCHES – “S” STRETCH RANGE
MOCK SMOCKING
Recreate elegant smocking in a fraction of the time it
takes to hand smock.
RANGE STITCH WIDTH LENGTH FOOT
S C 4-5 3-4 All-purpose
Fig. 2 Mock smocking
Sew several rows of basting stitches on the fabric. Pull
the bobbin thread to gather fabric to the desired fullness.
Select the honeycomb stitch C.
Sew between the basting stitches [Fig. 2]. Remove the
basting stitches when complete.
27
BUILT-IN STITCHES – “S” STRETCH RANGE
28
BUILT-IN DECORATIVE STITCHES – “S” STRETCH RANGE
Position the ribbon under the center of the presser foot and
sew [Fig. 3]. You may need to use a tear-away stabilizer
under the ribbon for extra stability.
Fig. 3 Decorative trim
STITCH “H” - DECORATIVE EDGING
Add a touch of color to linens with this enticing decorative
stitch. A variegated thread used in the needle will add
dimension.
RANGE STITCH WIDTH LENGTH FOOT
S H 4-5 1.5 Open toe
Place the fabric under the foot and sew [Fig. 5]. Use a
tear-away stabilizer under the fabric if sewing on light-
Fig. 5 Cross stitch
weight linens.
29
FREE-MOTION SEWING
Free-motion sewing is easily accomplished. Lower the feed
teeth, remove the presser foot and presser foot holder,
and attach the embroidery foot [Fig. 1]. This allows
“free” movement of the fabric in any direction. Use
stitch “A” and a stitch width setting from 0-5. There is no
need to adjust the stitch length because you will actually
be guiding the fabric movement. Use free-motion sewing
to monogram, embroider, quilt, or darn.
MONOGRAMMING
Fig. 1 Fig. 2
STITCH STITCH WIDTH DROP FEED PRESSER FOOT
A 4-5 Lowered Embroidery
OUTLINE QUILTING
STITCH STITCH WIDTH DROP FEED PRESSER FOOT
A 0 Lowered Embroidery Fig. 5
30
CARE and MAINTENANCE
To ensure the best possible operation of your machine, it is necessary to keep the essential parts clean
at all times. Disconnect the machine from the power source before performing any maintenance.
NEEDLES
The Simplicity sewing machine uses standard sewing
machine needles (15x1). The size and type of your nee-
dle should be compatible with the fabric (see page 15).
Change the needle often – after every other project is a
good habit. Bent or dull needles will cause skipped
Fig. 1 Fig. 2
stitches and thread breakage.
Race To change the needle, loosen the needle clamp screw
Shuttle [Fig. 1]. Remove the needle by pulling it downward [Fig.
keepers
2]. Insert the new needle by pushing it up into the shaft
as far as it will go with the flat side toward the back of
the machine. Tighten the needle clamp screw.
Shuttle
Fig. 7 Fig. 8
31
TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE
Problem Possible Cause Solution
TOP THREAD BREAKS Machine is threaded incorrectly . . . . . Rethread machine and needle
Tension is too tight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Reduce tension on top to a smaller number
Thread is too heavy for needle size . . . Use a larger needle
Needle is inserted incorrectly . . . . . . . Reinsert needle with flat side toward back
Needle is damaged . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Insert new needle
Thread is caught on spool pin . . . . . . . Remove spool, unwind excess thread, clip, turn spool
over, and use felt disc on spool pin
LOWER THREAD BREAKS Bobbin case is not inserted correctly . . Reposition bobbin. If thread pulls smoothly, it is correct
Bobbin case is improperly threaded . . . . Refer to instructions for correct threading
Bobbin tension is too tight. . . . . . . . . . Change bobbin tension according to instructions
SKIPPED STITCHES Needle is not inserted correctly . . . . . . Reinsert needle with flat side toward back
Needle is damaged . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Insert new needle
Wrong type of needle is used . . . . . . . Match needle size to fabric and thread weight
Wrong presser foot is used . . . . . . . . . Check the proper presser foot needed for specific task
Foot pressure is wrong. . . . . . . . . . . . . Check foot pressure regulation for proper setting
STITCHING FORMS LOOPS Needle is not threaded correctly . . . . . Thread needle from front to back
Bobbin is not threaded correctly . . . . . Check instructions for proper bobbin threading
Improper needle and/or thread used . . Match needle size to fabric and thread weight
SEAMS SHRINK OR PUCKER Presser foot pressure is too heavy . . . . Reduce presser foot pressure to a lower number
THREAD BUNCHING OR Top tension is too loose. . . . . . . . . . . . Increase top tension to a higher number. Normal
“NESTING” ON UNDERSIDE settings are between 3-5.
OF FABRIC Machine is not threaded correctly . . . . Rethread machine making sure presser foot is raised
and the take-up lever eye is threaded. Raising the
presser foot will help seat the thread between the
tension discs.
Bobbin case is improperly threaded . . . . Refer to instructions for correct threading
Thread is of poor quality . . . . . . . . . . . Use quality thread
Needle is too large for fabric . . . . . . . . Use a smaller size needle
Wrong stitch length is used . . . . . . . . . Adjust length for proper stitches
Top and bottom threads are not. . . . . . Draw both threads back under the presser foot and
drawn back under the presser hold until a few stitches have formed
foot before sewing
32
TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE
Problem Possible Cause Solution
IRREGULAR STITCHING Thread is of poor quality . . . . . . . . . . . Use quality thread
AND FEEDING Presser foot pressure is too light . . . . . Increase presser foot pressure to a higher number
Bobbin is not threaded correctly . . . . . Thread bobbin again and check for proper insertion
Fabric is being pulled during sewing . . Check for proper foot pressure; make sure feed teeth
are raised and operating correctly; lengthen stitch
length. Fabric should feed automatically. Pulling the
fabric will throw the machine out of time.
MACHINE IS NOISY AND Machine needs oil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Refer to cleaning and maintenance instructions
ROUGH WHEN SEWING Lint and oil residue have collected . . . Clean race and hook according to instructions
in hook or on needle bar
Inferior oil has been used . . . . . . . . . . Clean and oil again. Use only fine sewing machine
oil. Do not use WD40.
Needle is damaged . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Insert new needle
Stitch length and/or width dials are set . Refer to instructions for proper machine settings
incorrectly for the type of stitch used
SEWING MACHINES