I can't seem to ever get the tension right on my "singer simple". no matter what i do, the stiching is a problem. this is my second machine with the same problem, is this a mfr defect or opperato error? please help!

Assuming that your rethreading specially the upper looper and the lower looper threads tension is accurate, and still problem in getting the left/right needle to stitch then most likely looper/thread timing is out. This will need your local technician to do the adjustment.

Hi
Look at the FAQs section on the Singer site.
http://www.singerco.com/support/faqs.html
Just click on the questions and the answers appear.
Hope this helps!

It may just need cleaning - check the maintenance section of the manual for how to do this.

If you need a manual, check at the Singer Company website.

Check the tension on your bobbin/ underspool.
Sometimes thread dust can jam the thread brake in that area and **** the locking stitch back out.

there is a little screw on the bobbin holder sounds like it needs to be a little tighter

Check that your bobbin thread is not wound too tightly or too loose. Also adjust your tension down a click at a time until it stops breaking, testing on scrap fabric. Singer provided manuals online. Look it up here: http://www.singerco.com/accessories/manuals.html

Are you saying that the thread is breaking?

CAUSES of upper thread breaking

needle is in backwards
improperly threaded
tension to tight
needle bent or blunt
thread to coarse for size of needle
needle too long for machine
burr on needle
tension discs worn so that thread works in grove
neele too fine for size of thread and fabric
lint or dirt around bobbin case holder
irregular sewing speed
AND THE BIGGEST PROBLEM IS:
threads not properly pulled back under pressure foot when starting to sew
This means, Have enough of the upper and lower thread pulled to the back and hold for the first 2-3 stiches,

Do this every time and it will become second nature and you will do it automatically

Your needle thread tension is too tight or the bobbin tension is too loose. If it is the latter try turning the bobbin case tension adjusting screw clockwise abot a full revolution.
If that does not work there is more than likely a bit of lint behind the tension spring, so carefully remove it and clean it out.

sarah if the top tension is to tight it might slip stitches but as always when there is a problem with stitching you should change the needle and make sure it is in right.
Taking the needle plate of and cleaning with a fine brush around the bobbin and feeders will help and should be done regular.

My Singer 7422 seems to be jammed. When I start to make a stitch, the thread from the needle gets caught on something on the bottom and the thread goes over the bobbin.