The Singer 231 Fashion Mate is an easy sewing machine to operate. Its controls are intuitive and it doesn’t have many features. But here’s what you need to know, and have, to get started.

First, you will need at least one Class 15 bobbin, made for oscillating hook machines, and preferably one bobbin for each color of thread you plan to use. They are available at Amazon, Michaels, Joann, Hobby Lobby and Sewing Parts Online among others. You can use plastic or metal, it doesn’t really make much difference, and they aren’t dramatically different in price.

Second, if you didn’t put the needle in the machine you’re using, replace it. Bent, dull and otherwise damaged needles are a frequent cause of missed stitches and other malfunctions, so start fresh. Keep that in mind as you sew, as well. The Singer 237 uses standard domestic machine needles, known as 15 x 1 or HAx1 or 130/705 H. Many are simply marked “Universal.”

If you are sewing denim or other heavy fabric, get the “heavy duty” version, if it is available. You can sew with basically any version of the right sized needle, but some are easier than others. Singer says the 237 will use sizes 9, 11, 14, 16 and 18.

The numbers marked on the needles are the metric designation and the Singer designation, and are (mostly) proportional. If you are super geeky and want to dig into needle nomenclature, Schmetz needles has a great “How to Read a Needle Package” guide here.

Angelina McCullar at Blueprint DIY also has a fabulous, no-nonsense video guide to needles.

Again, needles are very common, and you can usually find them at Joann, Hobby Lobby, Michaels, Amazon and a vast, vast array at Sewing Parts Online.

Next, you’ll need to thread the machine. Generally, the steps are 1) winding a bobbin with thread, 2) putting the bobbin in the bobbin case on the underside of the machine and 3) running the thread from the spool, through the threading points, tension assembly and needle eye.

The original 1965 User Manual has an excellently illustrated guide to installing a needle, winding and loading the bobbin in the machine, and routing the upper thread from the spool to the needle eye. Pay close attention to the way the thread runs through the thread takeup spring and the tiny hook on the left side of the tension assembly.

If you are stuck, you can cross check the threading instructions in the 1968 User Manual.

There is also an excellent video tutorial from Red Barn Homestead on Youtube.

Follow these directions, and you’ll be ready to start sewing.