A Singer child's sewing machine is the perfect starting point for any child age 6 and up who is interested in learning to sew. The machines sew more slowly than regular machines, decreasing the chance for accidents. While the machine makes sewing simple, kids will still need supervision with threading and operating the machine.
Sewing Machine Models
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There are several different models of Singer sewing machines manufactured in partnership with NKOK, a company specializing in producing products with the latest technology.
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All of the machines are battery powered, but the power depends on the model. The Singer Zigzag Chainstitch, for instance, requires two D batteries, while the smaller Singer Junior Chainstitch model requires four AA batteries.
The accessories that come with the machine also vary depending on the model. Most of the machines include three spools of thread, while the Junior Chainstitch only includes one spool. The machines that come with several spools of thread also have a spool compartment that holds multiple spools.
Sewing machine sets are also available on the market. The sets include extra spools of thread, sewing supply carrying case and other accessories in addition to the machine.
Things You'll Need
Singer child's sewing machine, any model
Sewing thread, provided when you purchase the machine
Scissors
Lightweight fabric
Plastic sewing needle
Threading the Machine
Most of the Singer toy sewing machines are already threaded if you purchase them new. However, you will need to know how to thread the machine if you would like to change colors or if you buy your machine used. Note that Singer's modern toy sewing machines only use one spool of thread and do not require a bobbin like traditional sewing machines.
Step 1
Power off the machine.
Warning
Always turn off the machine when you are threading it or performing any other types of maintenance to avoid accidents.
Step 2
Place the spool of thread into the spool compartment with the thread spooling off in a counter-clockwise direction. The spool compartment is located on the top right of the sewing machine. You may need to lift a small lid to access it.
Step 3
With your finger, slip the thread around the bottom of the tension dial between the two discs. This dial is located just below and to the left of the spool compartment.
Step 4
Find what is called the take up lever just above and to the left of the tension dial. This lever has a small hole in it. Slide the thread through the hole from right to left.
Step 5
Identify the small metal hole that is below and to the left of the take up lever. Slide the thread through that hole from top to bottom.
Step 6
Guide the thread through the small thread guide just below the small metal hole. This guide looks like a small slit opening, but it will guide the thread toward the sewing needle.
Step 7
Turn the hand wheel clockwise to raise the needle to its highest position. Thread the needle from left to right.
Tip
You can use a needle threader to make threading the machine easier. If your machine did not come with a needle threader, you can find one at your local craft store.
Sewing with the Machine
Step 1
Turn on the machine.
Step 2
Lift the presser foot lever. This is the lever located just behind the needle that lifts the presser foot that holds the fabric on the machine.
Step 3
Ensure that the thread coming from the needle is lying to the back of the machine, then place the fabric under the needle and presser foot. Lower the presser foot lever that you raised in Step 2.
Tip
- Test the stitching on a scrap piece of fabric for practice before you sew your project.
- Do not attempt to sew with thick fabric; light and medium-weight fabrics work best for toy machines.
Step 4
Use your hand to turn the hand wheel, the large wheel on the right side of the machine, in a counter-clockwise motion to sew one or two starting stitches.
Step 5
Press the foot pedal gently with your foot to begin sewing normally. As you sew, use your fingers to guide the fabric and the direction of the stitches.
Step 6
When you are finished stitching, lift your foot from the foot pedal. Turn the hand wheel in a counter-clockwise direction to lift the needle away from the fabric.
Step 7
Lift the presser foot lever once again. As you remove the fabric from the machine, hold your finger over the last stitch you made to prevent any unraveling.
Step 8
Use scissors to cut the thread, leaving a long tail. Thread a plastic sewing needle with the thread tail, then pass the needle through the next to last stitch on the fabric, creating a small loop.
Step 9
Pass the needle through the loop formed in Step 8 to knot it securely. Cut the thread tail.