SINGER 404K - Manual (Page 70)

The following instructions for manipulating the work apply to
darning on all Singer Domestic Sewing Machines.
Darning Table Linen, Towels, etc.
To ensure a soft, smooth finish, it is essential that a fine needle and fine
mercerised cotton should be used, which can be obtained from Singer Shops.
Ordinary cotton, however fine, results in a rather stifier, heavier darn.
As the feed of the Machine has been covered by the feed cover plate
(or lowered in the case of 15K110 and 201K Machine) it will be understood
that the movement of the work and the length of stitch must be controlled by
the operator moving the darning hoop. A slow movement of the hand will
give a short stitch and a quick movement a longer one.
Trim ragged edges from area to be darned and centre worn section in
embroidery hoops. Position work under needle and lower presser bar to
engage tension. Hold needle thread loosely with left hand, turn hand wheel
over and draw bobbin thread up through fabric. Hold both thread ends and
lower needle into fabric. Outline area to be darned with running stitches for
reinforcement. Place stitches from edge of open area.
Hold the hoop with both hands, and with a steady, continuous
movement, work backwards and forwards across the hole, keeping
the lines of stitching an equal distance apart and running about beyond
the edge of the hole and working in the same direction as the weft or fine
threads of the material.
After the stitching has been completed one way turn the hoop round
and continue in a similar manner across the first lines of stitching. These
second lines of stitching should be closer together and run parallel with the
warp or thicker threads of the material. Take this stitching about beyond
the hole, thus covering the first lines of thread entirely. This will strengthen
the material round the hole without giving a heavy darn.
When finished, the darn should be either round or oval in shape, thus
avoiding too much strain on one. thread. The darn should match as nearly
as possible the texture of the material. If the material is sheer, weave a
loose darn by moving the hoop far enough to make a long stitch. If a firmer
darn is required, move the hoop a short distance so that shorter stitches are
made.
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