How to use a 20U Sewing Machine

Having a 20U sewing machine is great because you can zig zag and straight stitch with the power of an industrial sewing machine. This video shows how to set the stitches on a Singer 20U.

[@hippoball1]

Thanks for that quick tutorial. I have a practically brand new singer 20U (bought it about 10 years ago -- but haven't used it more than 10 times). I had searched all over KZbin for a current video on just how to adjust the settings (which was the most intimidating thing for me - because all it came with was a diagram manual with some pretty prehistoric drawings), so I haven't used it as much as I would have liked simply because I wasn't familiar with the settings. You have given me the courage to take the cover off and put it into action -- as my smaller Brother and Singer machines have been quite over worked in recent years from all of my sewing and alterations work. Thanks again - I was greatly helped!🤗

[@SewWithMonti]

I am so glad the 20U tutorial was helpful. It's a great machine and I hope you get to use it more now.

[@laverneh2030]

Me too. The instructions are not though enough. There is another knob I would like to know about too. It’s left and above the needle. I’ve had the same experience with a newer 20u purchased in 2020. Always have to work on it before using. I have the blue Singer 20u passed down to me. It’s almost as old as me.

[@SewWithMonti]

@@laverneh2030 I have never used this knob! It locks the needle in place to ensure it doesn't move. I rarely use the zigzag feature, but when you do, make sure to turn this knob counter clockwise about 1/4 turn and the white line will be on tope of the knob. When it is in locked position, turn clockwise about 1/4 turn and you will see the white line.

[@robertaalbrecht2956]

I absolutely love this machine ❤️

[@SewWithMonti]

Me too Roberta!

[@bethharper9254]

I have one also. I got it to sew deer hides and it worked beautifully. Now it will only zigzag on fabric. Sewing the hides it doesn't sew at all. Any tips please. I have projects I need this machine for.

[@SewWithMonti]

You may need to use a walking foot machine to sew deer hides with or a machine that is made specifically to sew leather with. Another option might be getting a foot that is made to sew leather with. Be careful with sewing this on a regular basis on your 20U. It could throw the timing off.

[@isisbeckwith4063]

Hello! Can’t thank you enough for this video. I am new to industrial machines a got this same exact one. Is there a chance you’d be willing to show how to wind a bobbin?

[@SewWithMonti]

You are so welcome! I will make a video for you on bobbin winding.

[@SewWithMonti]

Hi Isis, I just posted the video and how to wind a bobbin on the 20U. Let me know what you think.

[@isisbeckwith4063]

@@SewWithMonti you are so wonderful thank you!

[@venmon8096]

Hu am extremely new to thus machine.. am literally around it now.. I don't know how to string it.. put in bobbing.. I just know how to sew.. lorks 😢

[@Hunter-ym2kk]

Monti, Have you ever seen a 20u with the hand wheel removed for a needle positioner system??..

[@SewWithMonti]

No I haven’t seen this. I would think this is for use in a factory situation?

[@vickijeanne9958]

Could you please show what a zigzag satin stitch at "0" would look like? Thank you!

[@SewWithMonti]

I no longer have my 20u! I miss it too.

[@laverneh2030]

Can I put a quite motor on this machine without diminishing the speed? As I grow older, I dislike the roar of the clutch motor.

[@SewWithMonti]

Hi Laverne, I didn't know the answer to your question, so I did some research. Yes, you can switch the motor from a clutch to a variable speed (Servo) motor. The latter motor is much lighter and has a dial to adjust the speed. I would suggest checking with a mechanic unless you're handy with your sewing machine repairs.

[@oluwabunmiolafimihan4141]

Thanks so much for this, please which part of the machine I'm to oil? I can't find any.

[@SewWithMonti]

This machine has an oil wicking system. It does not have an oil pan in the bottom that is drawn up into the machine. There are oiling hole on the top of the machine that you squeeze the oil into. You don’t need a lot of oil. just a few drops in each hole is enough. The oil will then collect in the shallow pan underneath the machine as you use it. Occasionally check the pan and make sure oil is clean.

[@lilianagonzalez2862]

Tengo una 20u pero no borda tiene una sola palanca que es la de levantar el prensatela . Mi pregunta es se levpuede cambiar a dos para que funcione con el zig zag con la rodillera o no se puede cambiar ???. Gracias muy util su video .❤😊😊

[@SewWithMonti]

Hola, La rodillera sólo bajará o subirá el pie de presión. No controlará la configuración de zigzag ni los dientes de arrastre. Puede ajustar la altura de los dientes de arrastre, pero es complicado y podría resultar difícil reajustarlos. la configuración normal. Si está interesado en bajar los dientes de arrastre para bordar, le sugiero hablar con un mecánico profesional. ¡Espero que esto sea útil!

[@yuribolognini]

I have this machine, can ou confirm to me if reverse stitch will land on the same hole as normal stich? Lengthwise, I can't set mine to have the same stitch size front and back 😅 I wanted to sew leather, and the needle has to come back to the same holes. I actually own 3 of these machines, and none does it exactly right. Is it a common behavior, or am I just unlucky? Mines do backstitch always a bit shorter than foreward stitch lengh. Thanks in advance

[@jerrykovis5417]

Found one these locally for $700. It’s in amazing shape. Curious if that’s a good price. Comes with table, lamp, knee control. Thanks

[@SewWithMonti]

Hi Jerry, It it's in good shape, that's a good price. If you take care of it, it will last a lifetime. Mine is almost 40 years old.

[@jerrykovis5417]

@@SewWithMonti I ended buying it for $650. Brought a seamstress friend and WOW, this thing purrs like a kitten. Everything is super clean on it. Seller buys and rebuilds industrial sewing machines as a past time. The motor must have a smaller pulley on it, there’s another in the table drawer, because it doesn’t seem as fast the ones I’ve see on KZbin. The clutch motor isn’t as loud as I thought it would be and this is the first industrial sewing machine I’ve ever pushed the pedal, not as intimidating as I thought it. Having said that, definitely gonna respect its power and practice safety. But just wanted to say thanks for replying.

[@SewWithMonti]

@@jerrykovis5417 That's a good deal Jerry. I love mine, in fact Im using it today! It will be a good asset to all your creations1

[@lovethloveth4730]

Hi Monti, how do you oil the machine?

[@RhaeyaCreations]

You can take the top off, a few screws and it has a oil drip pan. You oil the pan and it should drip where it needs to go.

[@SewWithMonti]

There are two types of oiling systems for industrial machines. The newer machines are self oiling. They have a pan underneath the machine. There is an oil pump attached to the under side of the sewing machine that will distribute the oil to the pan. If your machine does not have an oil pump, then you need to keep adequate oil in this pan by filling it to the indication marks. The older machines (and some specialty industrial machines) use the “wicking” method to oil. Inside the machine is fibrous pads that soak the oil up and distribute the oil to necessary areas. These machine will have holes in the top of the machine to put the oil in with a dispenser. My Singer 20u is this method. The pan in this type of machine is shallow and is there only to catch drips from the machine. Don’t add oil to these pans! It will make a mess and doesn’t oil your machine.

[@demetrarowan6037]

Where did you buy the lights under the arm, mine is so dark

[@SewWithMonti]

I purchased my lights from Amazon. This is the search: Sewing Machine Light LED Strips Sewing Machine Cold White Light Self-Adhesive LED Strip Light 2 Meters 5V USB 6500K

[@demetrarowan6037]

@@SewWithMonti Thank you

[@SewWithMonti]

My pleasure!

[@SewWithMonti]

@@demetrarowan6037 My pleasure!

[@olaniyioloyede252]

Hmm I know how to operate this machine I love it soomuch

[@SewWithMonti]

It's a really good machine! I love mine too.

[@manuelluna4486]

2w ايلي de el el de de

[@SewWithMonti]

I hope you enjoyed the video, Manuel

[@RhaeyaCreations]

What thread do you recommend to use with this machine?

[@SewWithMonti]

Thank you for your question. The type of thread that you use will depend on type and weight of fabric.The most popular threads will be a polyester or a blend of poly and cotton. If you are using synthetic fabric, I suggest staying with the polyester. Sewing with cotton or linen is better with the poly/ cotton blend. The average weight for apparel weight fabrics such as dresses, tops or mid to lightweight pants is 33 for a size 80/12 needle and 46 for a 90/14 needle. There are many types of threads depending on the type of fabrics you choose, such as silk, nylon, lycra content and leather. The needles also vary depending on the fabrics as well. I like to test my fabric with the needle and thread to see how they react together before I begin a project.

[@PamelaBarsky]

thanks Monti. just installed this machine in my mini factory and had no idea where to start. this was exactly what I needed

[@SewWithMonti]

I’m so glad the video was helpful. Good luck with your mini factory!

[@angelis12]

Hola que agujas usa esa máquina singer 20U

[@SewWithMonti]

Gracias por tu pregunta. Varias empresas fabrican agujas de melana para encajar in Singer 20u. Singer agujas #134R y Organ DPX 5. Las agujas de tamari medio son 80/12 y 90/14.

[@gavinhodge2290]

What is the needle to column distance?

[@SewWithMonti]

I’m not sure what the measurement is, Gavin. I no longer have this machine, so I cannot measure it for you.

[@faknahlaparvuli8186]

Where can i buy it

[@SewWithMonti]

This machine is an older model. I would suggest looking on eBay. You can also get a new model 20U at most sewing machine stores.

[@scottfisher3622]

Hi Monti, just wondering if you might know what size belt the Singer 20U professional uses. We picked up a machine, but it came without a belt. We've tried a 45" x 1/2" V-belt, but too short and we think that the V is too wide.

[@SewWithMonti]

I don’t know the size but, go to www.singer online.com or call this number 800-59-6729. M-F 9 to 4:30. They are in Ohio. They can tell you what size you need. The website is really fun. They sell all kinds of accessories for your machine. It’s worth checking out!

[@AndyUK-Corrival]

Hi, I have this same machine, bought when it was seized with hard grease and dirty. I have cleaned and released it and now all functions work. My problem is what size needles to get to use for heavy canvas and sailcloth. The different ways needles are described is a complete minefield to me. I have been told to use size 20 or 22 needles but when searching I don’t find any described as such. Then I was advised to get 134r needles and then DPx5 or 135/5. I’m confused. I will be using a heavy duty thread, V92 bonded nylon so any help or ideally a link to the exact needles I should use would be super helpful. Thanks. Andy UK

[@SewWithMonti]

You will need a size 16 or 18. Keep in mind that this machine isn't really made to sew heavy canvas. You need a heavy duty machine to sew these fabrics well. A walking foot machine would be ideal. They are so fun to use and very easy to learn!

[@onelove6177]

I have acquired the same exact machine, which I love. Straight stitch works perfectly fine. One issue is zig zag seems to bunch the fabric under the zig zag stitch. I even loosened the tension all the way and this did not fix. Do you have any suggestion on this beautiful machine?

[@SewWithMonti]

It could be caused by several things. The needle size needs to be compatible to your fabric. Make sure that your needle isn’t too large or small. The lighter weight the fabric, the smaller the needle. Also, try changing your needle and using a new one. Needles don’t have to be broken or chipped to not perform properly. Sometimes they are just dull. You may need to adjust the size of your zigzag widths or length. It your fabric is light weight, it may not accommodate a wide stitch. The 20u is made to sew a wide variety of fabrics, so all stitch settings aren’t ideal for all fabrics. The lighter the fabric, the less likely the wider zigzag will perform properly. If you try all the settings and needles, you may need to have the head serviced.

[@genericname6669]

am hoping to buy 20u for free motion embroidery. will post back how I go. thank you for this video.

[@SewWithMonti]

Please let me know how you’re doing with your free motion machine. it sounds like fun!

[@moniregb5682]

Hi Can you tell me what the maximum thickness of material that the singer can sew please.

[@SewWithMonti]

The 20U is really meant for medium duty weight sewing. However, I do sew some upholstery fabrics on mine. I have made cushion covers, slip covers and curtains out of bull denim and chenille. I always wash my fabric prior to sewing too. You need to be careful about how many layers you sew over. I try to limit my layers to 4. also, make sure to use a 16 or 18 size needle and a heavy weight thread, such as Coats and Clark upholstery thread. If you find the need to sew heavy duty fabrics, such as vinyl or heavy weight canvas, I would suggest looking at a walking foot machine made for upholstery. I will make a video about sewing heavier fabrics for you.

[@smsinvestments485]

Thank you so much dear. Be blessed

[@SewWithMonti]

Thank you, I’m glad you liked the video

[@kamleshverma5531]

Whats price of machine

[@SewWithMonti]

This is a used machine. The price varies. I've seen them for $375 to $600. The new ones are $1600.

[@SewWithMonti]

I would look at eBay to see if they have this model.