ELNA 6600 User manual

1
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
Your Elna 6600 sewing machine is designed and constructed for HOUSEHOLD use only. Read all instructions before
using this machine.
DANGER – To reduce the risk of electric shock:
1. Your sewing machine should never be left unattended when plugged in. Always unplug the machine from the
electrical outlet immediately after using and before cleaning.
2. Always unplug before replacing light bulb. Replace bulb with same type rated 12 Volts, 5 watts.
3. Do not reach for the machine if it has fallen into water. Unplug immediately.
4. Do not place or store machine where it can fall or be pulled into a tub or sink. Do not place it in or drop it into
water or other liquid.
WARNING – To reduce the risk of burns, fire, electrical shock or injury:
1. Do not allow machine to be used as a toy. Supervision is necessary when this machine is used by or near
children.
2. Use this sewing machine only for its intended use as described in this manual. Only use attachments
recommended by the manufacturer as described in this manual.
3. Never operate this machine if it has a damaged cord or plug, is not working properly, has been dropped or
damaged or dropped into water. Return the machine to the nearest authorized dealer or service center for
examination, repair, electrical or mechanical adjustment.
4. This machine is equipped with a special connection cord which, if damaged, must be replaced by an identical
cord. This can be obtained from your dealer.
5. Never operate the sewing machine with any air opening blocked. Keep ventilation openings of the sewing
machine and foot control free from the accumulation of lint, dust and fibers.
6. Never drop or insert any object into any opening.
7. Do not use outdoors.
8. Do not operate where aerosol (spray) products are being used or where oxygen is being administered.
9. To disconnect, turn machine off and remove plug from outlet.
10. Do not unplug by pulling on cord. To unplug, grasp the plug, not the cord.
11. Keep fingers away from all moving parts, especially the needle.
12. Always use the proper needle plate. The wrong plate can cause the needle to break.
13. Do not use bent needles.
14. Do not pull or push fabric while stitching. This may deflect the needle causing it to break.
15. Switch the sewing machine off when making any adjustment in the needle area, such as threading needle,
changing needle, threading bobbin, changing presser foot, etc.
16. Always unplug the sewing machine from the electrical outlet when removing covers, lubricating or making any
other servicing adjustments mentioned in the instruction manual.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
IMPORTANT
Be sure to keep machine away from static electricity, heat sources, humidity and direct sunlight.
USA only
Your machine comes equipped with a polarized plug (one prong wider than the other). A polarized plug reduces the
risk of electrical shock. This plug is intended to fit into a polarized outlet. If the plug does not fit fully into the outlet,
reverse the plug. If it still does not fit, contact a qualified electrician to install the proper outlet. Do not modify the plug
in any way.
Use only foot control model 21371 for sewing machine model 6600 (UL, CSA).

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TABLE OF CONTENTS
SECTION I – Machine Parts and Functions
Part Names ............................................................................................ 3
Standard Accessories ......................................................................... 4-5
Presser Foot and Accessory Definitions ............................................ 5-6
Extension Table and Free Arm .............................................................. 7
Circular Sewing Pivot Points ................................................................. 7
Knee Lifter ............................................................................................. 8
Connecting Machine to Power Supply .................................................. 9
Main Function of Keys ......................................................................... 10
Keyboard Selection Keys ............................................................... 11-13
Setting Quick Resumption, Sound and Language Modes ........... 14-15
Controlling Sewing Speed ................................................................... 15
Foot Pressure Dial ............................................................................... 15
How to Drop the Feed Dog ................................................................. 16
Presser Foot Lever .............................................................................. 16
Additional Presser Foot Clearance ..................................................... 16
Attaching and Removing Presser Feet ............................................... 17
Attaching and Removing Shank .......................................................... 17
Seam Allowance Lines ........................................................................ 17
Adjusting Needle Thread Tension ....................................................... 18
Using the Fine Adjustment Screw ....................................................... 19
SECTION II – Getting Ready to Sew
Selecting the Correct Needle and Thread .......................................... 20
Changing Needles ............................................................................... 20
Needle Definitions ............................................................................... 21
Winding a Bobbin .......................................................................... 22-23
Additional Spool Pin ............................................................................ 23
Inserting the Bobbin ............................................................................ 24
Threading the Machine ........................................................................ 25
Built-in Needle Threader ..................................................................... 26
Drawing Up the Bobbin Thread ........................................................... 27
SECTION III – Basic Sewing
How to Select a Stitch ......................................................................... 28
Straight Stitch ...................................................................................... 28
Starting to Sew ................................................................................... 28
Finishing Off a Seam ........................................................................... 28
Cutting the Threads ............................................................................. 29
Changing Sewing Direction ................................................................. 29
Adjusting Needle Position ................................................................... 29
Adjusting Stitch Length ....................................................................... 30
Programming My Personal Settings ............................................. 30-31
Sewing on Heavy Fabrics ................................................................... 32
Gathering ............................................................................................. 32
Zipper Insertion ............................................................................. 33-34
Rolled Hem .......................................................................................... 35
Zigzag Stitch ........................................................................................ 36
Overcasting ......................................................................................... 36
Satin Stitch Appliqué ........................................................................... 37
3-Step Zigzag ...................................................................................... 37
Mending a Tear .................................................................................... 38
Apply 7mm (1/4˝) Elastic ..................................................................... 38
Blind Hem Stitches .............................................................................. 39
Lingerie Stitch ...................................................................................... 39
Triple Seam ......................................................................................... 40
Super Overlock Stitch.......................................................................... 40
Super Stretch Stitch ............................................................................ 40
Buttonhole Variations .................................................................... 41-46
Corded Buttonhole .............................................................................. 47
4 Step Memory Buttonholes – Classic and Bound ....................... 48-51
How to Sew on a Button ...................................................................... 52
Darning ................................................................................................ 53
Bartacks ............................................................................................... 54
Arrowtack ............................................................................................. 55
Eyelets ................................................................................................. 55
Shell Tuck ............................................................................................ 55
Basting Stitch ....................................................................................... 56
Saddle Stitch ....................................................................................... 57
Stretch Seam ....................................................................................... 57
Overlock Stitch .................................................................................... 58
Double Overlock Stitch ........................................................................ 58
SECTION IV – Quilting
Piecing Fabrics Together ..................................................................... 59
Quilt Stitch ........................................................................................... 59
Quilt Guide ........................................................................................... 59
Open Toe Walking Foot ....................................................................... 60
Patchwork ............................................................................................ 60
French Knots ....................................................................................... 60
Buttonhole Appliqué ............................................................................ 61
Free Motion Quilting or Stippling ........................................................ 62
Stippling Stitch ..................................................................................... 62
SECTION V – Decorative Sewing
Scallop Edges ...................................................................................... 63
Corded Trim ......................................................................................... 63
Single Cord For Gathering Heavy Fabric ........................................... 63
Twin Needle Sewing ........................................................................... 64
Twin Needle Decorative Sewing ......................................................... 65
Satin Stitches – Elongation ................................................................. 65
Mirror Image ........................................................................................ 65
Circle Sewing ....................................................................................... 66
Large Scallop Border .......................................................................... 66
SECTION VI – Programming Combinations
Single Repeat with Lockstitch ............................................................. 67
Combining a Sequence ...................................................................... 68
Inserting a Second Color ..................................................................... 68
Reset Combined Sequence to Beginning ........................................... 69
Reset Combined Sequence to Beginning of Incomplete Stitch ......... 69
Combining Letters ............................................................................... 70
How to Preview the Combined Sequence .......................................... 71
Editing .................................................................................................. 71
Individually Adjusting Stitch Width or Length ...................................... 72
Alignment of Stitches within a Sequence ........................................... 72
Permanent Memory
(Saving, Overwriting, Recalling and Deleting) .............................. 73-74
SECTION VII – Heirloom
Pintucks ............................................................................................... 75
Bridging (Fagoting) .............................................................................. 75
Hemstitches ......................................................................................... 76
Fringing ................................................................................................ 77
Drawn Work ......................................................................................... 77
Smocking ............................................................................................. 78
SECTION VIII – Taking Care of Your Machine
Cleaning the Bobbin Area ................................................................... 79
Cleaning the Hook Area and Feed Dog ........................................ 79-80
Replacing the Bobbin Case ................................................................. 80
Changing the Light Bulbs .................................................................... 80
STITCH CHART ................................................................ 81-82
OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES .................................................. 83
WARNING MESSAGES .................................................... 84-85
TROUBLESHOOTING ........................................................... 86
INDEX ................................................................................ 87-88
NOTE: Information found in this instruction manual is
current at the time of printing. Elna reserves the
right to change and update specifications and
information as needed.

3
Part Names
1. Top cover (lift up and back)
2. Stitch chart
3. Top storage compartment
4. Bobbin winder spindle
5. Bobbin winder stop
6. Selection keys
7. LCD screen
8. Side storage compartment
9. Knee lifter insert channel
10. Light panel
11. Speed control lever
12. Up/down needle key
13. Auto-lock key
14. Reverse key
15. Start/stop key
16. Bobbin cover plate release button
17. Bobbin cover plate
18. Extension table (storage box)
19. Needle plate
20. Circular sewing pivot points
21. Needle threader
22. Thread cutter
23. Face plate
24. Foot pressure dial
25. AUTO tension LED
26. LED screen brightness control
27. Needle thread tension dial
28. Spool pin
29. Needle clamp screw
30. Needle
31. Presser foot
32. Shank
33. Thumbscrew
34. Carrying handle
35. Presser foot lever
36. Buttonhole lever
37. Free arm
38. Feed dog lever
39. Machine sockets
40. Power switch
41. Flywheel (always turn towards you)
SECTION I - Machine Parts and Functions
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27 28
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41
START
STOP

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Standard Accessories
Top Cover
(Lift up and back)
1. Seam ripper
2. Set of needles
3. Quilt guide
4. B: Buttonhole foot (4-step)
5. Scant 1/4 inch foot
6. Bobbins (8 + 1 in machine = 9 total)
Side Cover
(Pull down Side Cover to open)
7. D: Hemmer foot
8. E: Zipper foot
9. F: Satin stitch foot
10. H: Multi-cord foot
11.G: Blind hem foot
12. R: Automatic buttonhole foot
13. C: Overlock foot
14. Circular sewing pivot pin
15. A: Standard metal foot (attached to machine)
Storage compartments can be tilted forward for easy
access.
Extension Table (Storage Box)
Accessories are stored inside the extension table. Pull lid
towards you to open the storage box.
16. Open toe walking foot
17. Large screwdriver
18. P-2: Open toe embroidery/darning foot
19. Lint brush
20. Large spool holder
21. Small spool holder
22. Additional spool pin
23. Spool pin felt
24. Spool stand
1
2345
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16 17 18
19 20 21
22 23 24
ACD
EF
G
RH

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Machine Box
25. Instruction book
26. Power supply cord
27. Foot control
28. Knee lifter
29. Carrying bag
Presser Foot and Accessory Definitions
A: Standard Metal Foot
This foot comes attached to your machine. It is mainly
used for straight stitches and zigzag stitches longer than
1.0. The button locks the foot in a horizontal position
helping to sew over multiple layered seams.
B: Buttonhole Foot
Sew oversized buttonholes for novelty buttons or a
decorative accent. The two cutout grooves on the
underside of the foot ensure that the buttonhole sides lie
parallel to each other.
C: Overlock Foot
Prevent fabric edges from raveling by finishing the edge
with a zigzag stitch. The wires/brush on the foot help the
stitch lie flatter and reduce puckering. Use with medium
weight fabrics.
D: Hemmer Foot
Insert the fabric into the spiral on this foot. The spiral
rolls the fabric, creating a rolled hem. An easy,
professional way to sew hems.
E: Zipper Foot
Use when sewing zippers into place. The grooves on the
underside ensure the foot glides over the zipper coil.
Attach either to the left or right of the needle to sew each
side of the zipper.
25 26 27
28 29

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F: Satin Stitch Foot
The cutout on the underside of the foot is designed to
accommodate dense stitch formation. Ideal when sewing
satin and decorative stitches.
G: Blind Hem Foot
The guide on the foot helps ensure that the needle
catches only one or two fibers of the hem, resulting in an
invisible hemline.
H: Multi-Cord Foot
Design your own braids or trims. Place one to three
cords in the foot and sew over cord(s) for a simple
couching method. Or sew over one cord with a zigzag to
gather heavier weight fabrics.
Scant 1/4˝ Foot
Accuracy is the key to successful patchwork/quilt sewing.
Sewn from 3.5 needle position; the guide on the foot
provides a perfect 1/4" seam. Or use 4.5 needle position
and achieve the desirable scant 1/4˝ often requested by
quilters.
P-2: Open Toe Embroidery/Darning Foot
Skipped stitches are no longer a concern when sewing
free motion embroidery, stippling, darning and
monogramming. The spring-loaded foot moves up and
down at the same time as the needle. Another benefit
when using this foot is that the front cutout provides
maximum visibility.
R: Automatic Buttonhole Foot
Place button in foot to determine the buttonhole size.
The machine will automatically sew the corresponding
buttonhole.
Quilt Guide
The quilt guide is helpful when sewing parallel, evenly
spaced rows of stitching. May be used with a Open Toe
Walking Foot.
Open Toe Walking Foot
Great for keeping quilt layers from shifting when sewing
and keeping stripes and checks matched. Fabrics lie
between an upper feed dog (on walking foot) and lower
feed dog (on machine) to move fabrics simultaneously,
preventing them from slipping.

7
Free Arm
Free arm sewing is good for circle areas like sleeves,
waistbands and pant legs. If socks, knee or elbow areas
need mending, the free arm will be best to use.
Circular Sewing Pivot Points
The freee arm has holes qthat are 1 cm apart from
each other. Use the holes to sew circles and scallops
with the circular sewing pivot pin. See page 66.
Extension Table and Free Arm
Extension Table
The extension table provides more sewing space to
make sewing easier. The extension table can be easily
removed for free arm sewing.
To Remove:
Pull the end of the extension table away from the
machine, as shown.
To Attach:
Push the table back into place to reattach the extension
table.
q

8
Knee Lifter
The knee lifter allows you to raise or lower the presser
foot without using your hands. This is especially
beneficial when pivoting corners or sewing patchwork
pieces.
Insert knee lifter aligning the slots with the notches.
The presser foot rises equal to the amount of pressure
applied to the knee lifter. Stop sewing before moving the
knee lifter to the right to raise the presser foot. Release
the knee lifter to lower the presser foot.
CAUTION:
Do not touch the knee lifter while sewing; the fabric will
not feed properly and the stitches will not form correctly
because the tension discs will open.

9
Connecting Machine To Power Supply
Before connecting the power cord, make sure the voltage
and frequency shown on the machine are identical to
your electrical power.
To connect machine to power supply, turn off the power
switch q. Insert the foot control plug wand machine
plug einto the machine and the power supply plug r
into the wall socket.
Your machine may come equipped with a polarized plug
(one prong wider than the other). A polarized plug
reduces the risk of electrical shock. This plug is intended
to fit into a polarized outlet. If the plug does not fit fully
into the outlet, reverse the plug. If it still does not fit,
contact a qualified electrician to install the proper outlet.
Do not modify the plug in any way.
IMPORTANT: When using your sewing machine the first
few times, place waste fabric under the
presser foot and run the machine without
thread for a few minutes. Wipe away
excess oil.
NOTE: After turning off the machine, wait 5 seconds
before turning it on again.
For Your Safety
Do not use extension cords or plug adapters.
Do not touch plug with wet hands.
Always turn off the power/light switch first and then
unplug from the electrical outlet. Examples:
•when leaving the machine unattended
•when cleaning the machine
Always turn off the power/light switch:
•when attaching or removing parts such as needle,
presser foot, needle plate
•when threading needle or bobbin
Do not place anything on the foot control.
Do not place heavy items on cords. Do not subject cords
to heat. Do not use damaged cords. Have the cord
repaired immediately.
While the machine is in operation, always keep your eye
on the sewing area and do not touch any moving parts
such as the thread take-up lever, flywheel or needle.
q
w
e
r

10
Main Function of Keys
1. START/STOP Key
Press this key to start the machine. The first few
stitches will be sewn at a slow speed and then
machine sews at the speed set by the speed control
lever. Press key again to stop machine. Press and
continue to hold key to sew at slow speed, release
key to sew at set speed. Press key again to stop.
NOTE: The foot control must be detached to use this
key.
2. Reverse Key
If you are sewing 1 (straight stitch), 2 (zigzag stitch)
or 3 (3-step zigzag stitch), press and hold this key.
The machine will sew in reverse until you release the
key with or without using the foot control or START/
STOP key.
*If you are sewing any other stitches, utility or
decorative, the machine will immediately stop and
sew a lockstitch when you press this key.
3. Auto-Lock Key
Press this key while sewing 1 (straight stitch), 2
(zigzag stitch) or 3 (3-step zigzag stitch) and the
machine will sew a few stitches in place and stop
automatically.
*Press this key while sewing utility or decorative
stitches and the machine will complete the stitch,
lockstitch and stop.
4. Up/Down Needle Key
If the needle is up when you press this key, the
needle will go down to its lowest position. The needle
will continue to stop in the down position.
If the needle is down when you press this key, the
needle will go to its highest position. The needle will
continue to stop in the up position.
NOTE: The needle will always stop in the up position
after sewing buttonholes.
START
STOP
1
2
3
4

11
Keyboard Selection Keys
1. AUTO tension LED
The “AUTO” LED indicates the needle thread tension setting.
Green Light – Needle thread tension is set on “AUTO”
No Light – Needle thread tension is manually set between 0 and 9.
Flashing Light – Selected stitch requires a manual setting.
2. LCD Screen Brightness Control
Lighten or darken the screen with this dial.
3. Stitch Width and Needle Position Key
Press “–” or “+” side of key to change setting.
Press “–” or “+” to move needle position left or right.
Straight stitches (1, 6, 031, and 078) can be sewn from many needle
positions by pressing the “–” or “+” side of the key.
Center needle position is 3.5.
4. Stitch Length Key
Press “–” or “+” side of key to change setting. Depending on the stitch
selected, stitch length can be set between 0.0 and 5.0.
NOTE: Fine fabrics should have a stitch length between 1.5 and 2.5,
medium fabrics between 2.0 and 3.0 and heavier fabrics between
3.0 and 4.0.
5. Twin Needle Key
Press this key to reduce the width of an individual stitch. The twin needle
symbol is shown in the LCD screen when it is activated. Press the key
again to cancel twin needle function.
6. Elongation Key
Satin stitches 035 to 050 can be lengthened up to five times their regular
size without the stitch length varying. Press this key to change the
elongation. The LCD screen displays the elongated size; X1, X2, X3, X4
or X5.
AUTO
12
34
5678 9
10 11 12 13 14
15
16

12
7. Select Mode Key
When you switch on the machine, the Direct Select Mode is active. You
can select the first ten stitches (illustrated on the keyboard) with a
single touch of the key.
Touch the “MODE” key to activate the 3 Digit Mode. You can select all
stitches by entering the 3 digits for the desired stitch.
Touch “MODE” key again to reactivate the Direct Select Mode.
8. Memory Save/Recall Key
The 3 Digit Mode has three separate memories for saving a sequence
of stitches. Press this key to activate memory 1 (M1). Press key again
to activate M2. Once a memory is activated, press the “ENTER” key to
save the sequence.
To recall a saved memory, press “M” key until desired memory appears.
To activate the saved sequence, press “Mirror Image” key.
9. Enter Key
Press this key after selecting a stitch in the 3 Digit Mode and that stitch
will be memorized. Up to 50 stitches can be combined.
These stitches cannot be memorized into a sequence: 009 - 023 and
030.
10. Mirror Image Key
When this key is pressed after selecting a stitch in the 3 Digit Mode, the
stitch will be flipped horizontally (as it appears on the stitch chart).
If you are in a permanent memory (M1, M2, or M3), press this key to
recall the saved sequence.
11. My Personal Setting Key
Select a stitch in Direct Select Mode and override the factory settings
by changing width/needle position or length. Press this key after
changing settings. Press “ENTER” key. New settings will now be saved
as the default settings with PS symbol in LCD screen.
12. Clear Key
When this key is pressed, the last memorized stitch or the stitch that is
above the cursor will be cleared. Press and hold the “C” key; the entire
sequence is cleared. If this key is pressed and held after sewing a
sequence, the sequence will be deleted.
13. Review Memory Left Key
Use this key to review stitches in a memorized sequence when all
stitches do not appear on the screen.
OR
Press this key to move the cursor left until it is under the stitch that will
be edited.
14. Review Memory Right Key
Use this key to review stitches in a memorized sequence when all
stitches do not appear on the screen.
OR
Press this key to move the cursor right until it is under the stitch that will
be edited.

13
15. Stitch Selection Keys
You can select a stitch in the Direct Select Mode by
pressing the key that is illustrated with the desired
stitch.
To select stitches in the 3 Digit Mode, simply press
the three digits for the desired stitch. To cancel the
stitch you selected, press the “C” key or select a
different stitch.
16. Symbols in the LCD Screen
qSelected stitch.
wRecommended setting for needle thread tension
dial. (If the dial is not set on “AUTO”, a numerical
value is shown.)
eElna recommends using this presser foot for best
sewing results.
rStitch width or needle position – computer
automatically sets width or needle position after a
stitch is selected.
tStitch length – computer automatically sets length
after a stitch is selected.
yQuick Resumption Mode. Switch off the machine.
The last stitch(es) that were sewn will appear
when machine is switched on. See pages 14-15.
uTwin or single needle. See page 64.
iSound Mode. Machine beeps after touching any
key. See pages 14-15.
++
q
y
u
i
wert

14
Setting Quick Resumption, Sound and Language
Modes
These three modes/functions can be set according to
your preferences. Each new setting requires you to turn
OFF the power switch.
Turn ON the power switch while pressing “ENTER” key.
Message screen appears. Press “1” key to change quick
resumption or “2” key to change sound or “3” key to
change language.
Quick Resumption – The last stitch or memorized
sequence of stitches that were sewn will appear when
machine is switched on.
Press “1” key.
Press “1” or “2” key to change setting between Normal
Set and Resumption Set.
Press “ENTER” key.
Sound – Turn off the beep sound (warning beep sounds
will not be turned off) or change the beep volume.
Press “2” key.
Press “1”, “2”, “3”, or “4” key to change between settings.
Press “ENTER” key.
Language – Choose one of the 10 languages:
English, Spanish, French, Danish, German, Italian,
Dutch, Russian, Slovenian or Swedish.
Press “3” key.
Press “Review Memory Right” key or “Review Memory
Left” key to change between languages.
Press “ENTER” key.
~
~

15
Reset to Factory Default
It is possible to reset the machine to the factory defaults
with English language as default.
Turn OFF the power switch. Press “ENTER” key while
turning power switch ON. Message screen appears.
Press “0” key. Message screen appears.
Press “ENTER” key to confirm and reset to factory
default.
OR
Turn off power switch to cancel the reset.
Controlling Sewing Speed
Sewing speed can be varied with the foot control. The
harder you press on the foot control, the faster the
machine runs.
The maximum sewing speed can be varied by sliding the
speed control lever. For a faster speed, slide it to the
right; for a slower speed, slide it to the left.
Foot Pressure Dial
Align the foot pressure dial qwith the setting mark wat
“3” for regular sewing.
Reduce the pressure to “2” for appliqué, cutwork, drawn
work, basting and embroidery.
Velours and knits with a lot of stretch may require a “1”
setting.
q
w

16
How To Drop the Feed Dog
The feed dog can be dropped out of position for special
sewing techniques: free motion embroidery, stippling,
button sewing, etc.
The feed dog must always be up for regular sewing.
Locate the feed dog lever on the back of the free arm.
Slide the lever either to the right (down) qor to the left
(up) w. To bring up the feed dog, hand turn the flywheel
after sliding lever to the left.
Presser Foot Lever
Raise and lower the foot with this lever q.
Before sewing can occur, the presser foot must be
lowered to close the tension discs.
If you attempt to sew with the foot in the up position, the
LCD screen will show this message illustration to remind
you to lower the foot, and the machine will emit a warning
beep.
Additional Presser Foot Clearance
You can raise the presser foot about 6.5 mm (1/4˝) higher
than the normal up position for easy removal of the
presser foot or to place heavy fabrics under the presser
foot. Pull the presser foot lever qup beyond the normal
up position.
wq
q
q

17
Attaching and Removing Presser Feet
Press the “Up/Down Needle” key until the needle is in
the raised position.
Turn OFF the power switch. Raise the presser foot and
press the red button q on back of the shank. The
presser foot will drop off.
Place the selected presser foot so the pin eon the foot
lies just under the groove wof the shank. Lower the
presser bar and attach the foot.
Attaching and Removing Shank
Turn OFF the power switch. Raise the presser bar.
Turn the thumbscrew q counterclockwise with the
screwdriver to remove the shank.
To attach, match the hole in the shank wwith the hole in
the presser bar e. Put thumbscrew in hole and turn
clockwise to tighten.
Seam Allowance Lines
The lines on the needle plate, machine bed and bobbin
cover plate help you measure seam width.
The number indicates the distance between the center
needle position (3.5) and the seam allowance line.
qCenter needle position
wEdge of fabric
eGuidelines
r90º pivot angle guideline for 5/8˝
q
we
q
w
e
q
w
e
r

18
Adjusting the Needle Thread Tension
Choosing the Correct Tension - Straight Stitch
The ideal straight stitch will have threads locked between
the two layers of fabric, as shown left (magnified to show
detail). The “AUTO” setting on the needle thread tension
dial should be aligned with the setting mark q. A green
light will appear.
If you look at the needle thread w(top thread) and
bobbin thread e(bottom thread), you will notice that
there are no gaps. Each stitch is smooth and even.
Occasionally the needle thread tension needs to be
adjusted to a manual setting. Examples:
–stiff or heavy fabric
–sewing more than two layers of fabric
–type of stitch
–thread
Move the needle thread tension dial off “AUTO” and the
computer display screen indicates the suggested manual
setting range. Green light disappears.
When adjusting needle thread tension, the higher
numbers tighten, the lower numbers loosen.
•Tension is too tight
The bobbin thread shows through on the topside of the
fabric and it will feel bumpy.
Turn the dial to a lower number to loosen the needle
thread tension.
•Tension is too loose
The needle thread shows through on the underside of the
fabric and it will feel bumpy.
Turn the dial to a higher number to tighten the needle
thread tension.
•Adjusting Tension for Zigzag and Satin Stitches
The upper thread tension should be slightly looser when
sewing a zigzag or a satin stitch. The upper thread
should appear slightly on the underside of the fabric.
q
w
e

19
Using the Fine Adjustment Screw
Choice of fabrics and threads may affect the stitch
formation. The fine adjustment screw can be used to
either lengthen or shorten the stitch.
q Fine adjustment screw
wStandard mark
eSetting mark
To fine tune, use a screwdriver to move the setting mark.
• If stitches are too short r, correct by turning the
screw in the direction of “+”.
• If stitches are too long t, correct by turning the screw
in the direction of “–”.
• If letters/numbers are overlapped y, correct by
turning the screw in the direction of “+”.
• If letter/numbers are too spread out u, correct by
turning the screw in the direction of “–”.
For buttonholes, always make the adjustment according
to the left side.
• If left side of buttonhole is less dense (too open) i
compared to right side, correct by turning screw in
direction of “+”.
• If left side of buttonhole is more dense (too closed) o
compared to right side, correct by turning screw in
direction of “–”
q
w
e
rt
yu
io
(+) (–)
(+) (–)
(+) (–)

20
SECTION II - Getting Ready to Sew
Selecting the Correct Needle and Thread
There are many kinds of fabrics, threads and needles. It
is important to use the correct ones together.
Always purchase good quality thread. It should be
strong, smooth and even in thickness. Use the same
thread for needle and bobbin. Always test thread and
needle size on a scrap piece of fabric.
In general, fine threads (the larger the number, the finer
the thread) and needles (the smaller the number, the
finer the needle) are used for sewing lightweight fabrics
and heavier threads and larger needles are used for
sewing heavyweight fabrics. There are many specialty
needles available from your sewing machine dealer.
Check your needles frequently for rough or blunt tips.
Snags and runs in knits, fine silks and silk-like fabrics are
permanent and are often caused by damaged needles.
NOTE: A universal needle size 14/90 comes inserted in
your machine.
Changing Needles
1. Turn ON the power switch. Press the “Up/Down
Needle” key to raise the needle. Lower the presser
foot. Turn OFF the power switch. Turn the needle
clamp screw qcounterclockwise to loosen. Remove
the needle from the clamp.
2. Insert the new needle into needle clamp wwith the
flat side to the back, pushing it up as far as it will go.
Tighten the clamp screw firmly.
3. To determine if the needle is defective, place the flat
side of the needle on something flat (a needle plate,
piece of glass, etc.). The gap between the needle and
the flat surface should be consistent.
Never use a bent or blunt needle, as it may cause
skipped stitches or thread breakage. Defective needles
can ruin the fabric. Always purchase good quality
needles. Change needles often.
9 (65)
9 (65)
11 (75)
11 (75)
12 (80)
11 (75)
11 (75)
11 (75)
14 (90)
14 (90)
14 (90)
16 (100)
16 (100)
16 (100)
18 (110)
11 (75)
14 (90)
Very
Light
Light
Medium
Heavy
Very
Heavy
Weight Fabric Needle Type Needle Size
Chiffon, Fine Lace,
Organdy
Batiste, Lawn, Crepe
de Chine, Challis,
Handkerchief Linen,
Crepe, Taffeta, Satin
Single Knits, Jersey,
Swimwear, Tricot
Leather, Suede
Flannel, Velour, Velvet,
Velveteen, Corduroy,
Linen, Gabardine,
Wool, Terry, Burlap
Double Knits, Stretch
Velour, Stretch Terry,
Sweater Knits
Leather, Vinyl, Suede
Denim, Sailcloth,
Ticking
Coating, Polar Fleece,
Drapery, and
Upholstery Fabrics
Leather, Suede
Canvas, Duck,
Upholstery Fabrics
Topstitching for
Special Finish
Universal
Ball Point
Stretch
Universal
Stretch
Ball Point
Leather
Universal
Ball Point
Leather
Denim
Universal
Leather
Universal
Topstitching
1. 2.
3.
q
w