Singer 1408, 1409 Instruction Manual
![Singer 1408, 1409 manual cover](/images/e8c1981a8e56148e6fd56727/thumbs/thumb175x175.webp)
To thread the Singer 1408/1409, start by raising the presser foot and turning the hand wheel to raise the needle. Place a spool of thread on the spool pin, draw the thread through the upper thread guide, and follow the threading path as indicated on the machine. Finally, thread the needle from front to back.
If your Singer 1408/1409 is skipping stitches, ensure that the needle is inserted correctly and not bent or dull. Also, check that the thread is threaded properly and the tension is correctly set. Using the right needle and thread for your fabric is also important.
Regular maintenance includes cleaning the lint from the bobbin area and feed dog using a brush, and oiling the machine as per the manual's instructions. Always unplug the machine before cleaning, and use sewing machine oil for lubrication.
If the fabric is not feeding, check that the feed dogs are raised and not lowered for darning. Ensure that the presser foot is down and the stitch length is not set to zero. Clean any lint or debris that might be obstructing the feed dogs.
To adjust the tension, use the tension dial located on the front of the machine. Typically, the ideal setting is between 3 and 5, but this can be adjusted depending on the fabric and thread being used. Test on a scrap piece of fabric to find the best setting.
If your machine is noisy, it may need cleaning or oiling. Remove lint from the bobbin area and check for any thread jams. Ensure that the machine is properly threaded and the needle is not bent. If the noise persists, consult a professional technician.
To sew a buttonhole, use the buttonhole foot and select the buttonhole stitch. Mark the position on your fabric, place the fabric under the foot, and follow the machine's instructions for sewing the buttonhole in four steps.
Use Singer or other high-quality needles appropriate for your fabric. Universal needles are suitable for woven fabrics, while ballpoint needles are better for knits. The needle size should match the weight of the fabric and thread.
Thread bunching, or "bird nesting," is usually caused by incorrect threading or tension settings. Rethread the machine, ensuring the presser foot is up while threading, and check that the bobbin is correctly placed in the bobbin case. Adjust the tension if necessary.
To replace the bobbin, remove the bobbin cover, take out the empty bobbin, and insert a wound bobbin with the thread coming off clockwise. Pull the thread through the slot on the bobbin case, replace the cover, and draw the thread up with the needle.