The position of the needle can be adjusted to 13 positions, which makes it much more comfortable to sew a zipper, lace, or some embellishments.
The buttonhole sewing is semi-automatic.
This professional sewing machine may be the best choice for both basic jobs and decorative sewing. The strong metal frame perfectly suppresses vibration during operation and increases the overall strength of the machine.
Horizontal, Top drop-in bobbin
30
Semi-automatic
Electronic speed control
One-step buttonholes, 'Auto' thread tension, Thread cutter, Built-in accessory storage, Twin needle option, Glare-free sewing light, Snap-on presser feet, High presser foot lift
Touch-button reverse, 13 needle positions, Variable stitch length and width
Adjustable blind hem foot, 2-sided zipper foot, 1-step buttonhole foot, Satin stitch foot, Zig-zag foot
10 years on parts and labour
The model has a unique wave design. This shape allows you to easily move both small and large pieces on the plate. The practical free arm adds to the convenience of use.
The instructions aren't very clear.
The Singer Fashion Mate 3342 will let you complete all your creative projects. It's equally effective for both thin and dense fabrics. The automatic needle threader contributes to the ease of use and saves considerable time.
Horizontal, Top drop-in bobbin
32
Automatic
820 stitches per minute
Automatic needle threader, One-step buttonholes, Built-in accessory storage, STAYBRIGHT LED light, Free arm, Quick presser foot change
Variable stitch length and width, Reverse
All-purpose foot, Zipper foot, Button sewing foot, Buttonhole foot, Sew easy foot
10 years on parts and labour
The Snap-On presser feet can be easily removed and attached for various sewing techniques. As a nice touch, the machine comes with a lint brush for cleaning needles.
It doesn’t raise high enough to let you see holes in thick fabrics.
The Singer 2263 machine is a perfect value for the money. It may be great for those who are used to old-style models as the layout here is pretty basic. Also, it's an optimal buy for people with poor eyesight or seniors that may struggle with threading.
Oscillating action hook, Front loading bobbin
23
Automatic
Adjustable speed (with a pedal)
Automatic needle threader, Automatic 4-step buttonhole, Built-in light, Slide-off extension table, Built-in accessory storage
Adjustable width and length, Reverse
General-purpose foot, One-step buttonhole foot, Zipper foot, Blind hem foot
10 years on parts and labour
Owing to the extra-high presser foot lifter, you'll be able to stitch clothes made of dense fabrics folded in several layers. Even 2 or 3 layers of denim won't be a challenge.
It's an Italian version, hence a continental plug.
This is a well-balanced model that can help you advance your sewing talents. Though it may not be the most suitable option for professionals, it will be a great suit for those who're going to perform everyday home sewing tasks.
Drop-in bobbin, Front-load bobbin
23
Automatic
Adjustable speed (with a pedal)
Automatic needle threader, Automatic 4-step buttonhole, Snap-on presser feet, Extra-high presser foot lifter, Automatic tension, Free arm, Twin needle Capability, Automatic presser foot pressure control, Accessory on-board storage
Adjustable width and length, reverse, Variable needle positions
All-purpose foot, Zipper foot, Buttonhole foot, Button sewing foot
10 years on parts and labour
Despite an affordable price tag, this model isn't short of features, offering you consistent basic, decorative, and stretch stitches and an automatic four-step buttonhole.
Initial set-up may be a bit confusing for novice users.
The Tradition 2259 is a budget-friendly machine that can help you make your first steps in sewing. Also, it's a decent choice for students who need a lightweight machine to take to their classes (comes with a handle).
Oscillating action hook, Front loading bobbin
19
Automatic
Electronic foot speed control
Automatic needle threader, Snap-on presser feet, 4-step buttonhole, Free arm, On-board accessory storage, High presser foot lifter
Adjustable width and length, reverse
General-purpose foot, Zipper foot, Buttonhole foot, Button sewing foot
10 years on parts and labour
Lovely Machine for Beginners
The Singer 7463 Confidence sewing machine is fabulous for both someone experienced and beginners alike. It's quiet, robust, and, most importantly, very simple to use. Even if you've never used a sewing machine before and this is your first time, you'll have no issues getting started, partly thanks to the handy manual included and partly thanks to its intuitive operation. Generally, the machine offers 30 different programs in total - 10 stretch, 10 decorative, 9 utility stitches and a buttonhole one - just the right amount to not make you feel dizzy yet let your creative juices flow.
As for other conveniences, the Singer 7463 has a free arm facility to help with sewing tricky area and comes equipped with an LED light to reduce the eye strain. It is very consistent too and shows great results on any kind of fabric. When set to Auto mode, it automatically selects the best size of the stitch, which allows it to work great with both thin, stretchable fabrics and fake leather or thick denim.
Basically, this model comes with everything you may need to get started - a buttonhole foot, zipper satin blind, a few bobbins, seam ripper, a pack of needles, and a darning overlay. Plus, for all the aforementioned accessories, it has a neat, built-in storage compartment. Offering simple operation and a set of handy accessories, the Singer 7463 can help even novice users to sew with confidence.
Let Your Creativity Go Wild!
The Fashion Mate 3342 is a stylish sewing machine that has all the basic features you may need to turn your sewing dreams into reality. Featuring 34 practical sewing programs with different stitches variable in length and width, it'll allow you to create just about anything from nice crafts and simple home decor elements to stylish accessories and cute clothing items, inspiring you to keep going. What's more, mastering it will be very easy, as all the adjustments can be easily done over the handwheel.
Sewing buttonholes can also be completed in one easy step, no matter whether you need to sew them on garments, pillows, or accessories. When it comes to sewing tight parts like trouser legs or tiny children's clothing, you'll have no problems either as the machine comes equipped with a practical free arm.
Though we've said that getting the hang of the machine will be easy, using a sewing machine for the first time might still entail some learning curve. Knowing that the manufacturer made sure to make it easier for users, providing them with both helpful Sewing-Made-Easy Videos and SINGER® Sewing Assistant App. The app mostly tells about the parts of the machine, how to set it up and how to select stitches for various techniques, while videos let you learn the machine's basics, such as threading the machine, selecting stitches, making a buttonhole, changing the needle, etc. So, we believe the Fashion Mate 3342 won't take too long to get going. Easy and functional, it's an optimal choice for people with any skill level and any sewing idea.
The Best Seller
The 2263 Sewing Machine is an absolute bestseller in the Singer lineup, striking a perfect balance between high quality of workmanship, excellent functionality, and a reasonable price.
To begin with, the Singer 2263 sewing machine offers 23 built-in stitches that include both basic and decorative ones along with stretch stitches. Plus, the stitch width and length can be further customised for your projects, thus, allowing you to sew a wide range of fabrics from thin and sheer lace to thick denim and more. The machine threads very easily and offers a quick and reliable bobbin winding. Owing to the built-in needle threader, you won't need to strain your eyes and waste your valuable time. Buttonholes can also be sewn in one easy step. Just place a button in the buttonhole foot and the machine will sew a hole perfectly sized for it.
In use, the machine is fairly quiet. Yet, keep in mind that it's a mechanical device with moving parts, so it won't be completely silent. All the functional parts are made from metal to provide users with long-lasting durability. The heavy-duty frame is also manufactured from strong metal and is able to suppress most vibrations during operation.
Being sturdy, affordable, and portable, the Singer 2263 is a real bargain. Owing to its easy operation and the auto needle threading feature, it'll be especially useful for ageing eyes.
Reveal Your Sewing Talent!
The Singer Talent 3323 is another no-fuss mechanical sewing machine ideal for basic projects. It's very lightweight, portable, and durable and just like all products by Singer delivers quality, living up to the reputation of the brand.
When it comes to convenience, the machine offers automatic reverse, on-board storage, and an extra-high presser foot lifter, meaning even two or three layers of denim won't be an issue for this machine. If needed, the presser foot can be easily removed. Also included are a top drop-in bobbin and automatic needle threader that ensure a quick, frustration-free setup. The bobbin threader here is transparent, which is a handy feature since it will let you check the level of your thread at a glance.
Speaking of stitches, the machine offers a relatively limited range of 23 stitches (12 decorative, 6 basic, 4 stretch, and 1 buttonhole stitch). That said, for most sewing tasks, this amount will prove more than sufficient. The speed here is average too (350-500 stitches per minute), but given it's a mechanical sewing machine we're dealing with, this rate isn't bad at all.
Bottom line, although this machine is limited in stitch patters and may not be the best option for advanced sewers, it will be great for those who'd like to try their hand at sewing and see how far it all will go.
Great Entry-Level Model
Not everyone needs an advanced sewing machine loaded with intricate stitches and functions just like not everyone can afford to pay a premium for one, especially given that many more basic models do not trail much behind them in terms of performance. Sounds like you? Then we recommend turning to the Singer Tradition 2259, an entry-level model perfect for novices and those who need a back up sewing machine.
The Singer Tradition 2259 offers 19 stitches in total, which is quite a lot for a small machine. You'll be able to create a variety of projects as well as figure out how to make decorative, stretch stitches and how to sew buttonholes. Furthermore, it offers all necessary adjustments: depending on the type of project you're working on, you'll be able to adjust a stitch length (up to 4.2 mm), zigzag width (up to 4.5 mm), the needle tension and position. You can also set the necessary sewing speed using a handy electronic foot speed control.
Turning to usability features, the biggest advantage of this model is its compact size. At overall dimensions of 22 x 41 x 35 cm, it's fairly portable, making it ideal for those who plan on bringing a sewing machine to classes or sewing groups. What also contributes to its ease of use is a dust cover and a built-in handle, ensuring comfortable carrying around.
Speaking of accessories, the machine comes supplied with a free arm, automatic needle threader, snap-on presser feet, 4-step buttonhole, and high presser foot lifter, providing you with everything needed to accomplish both basic garment alterations and more elaborate projects. There's also onboard storage included where you can keep all those accessories at hand.
As you can see, the Singer Tradition 2259 was made with the company's best traditions in mind. So, if you look for a sewing machine within a budget price bracket, this one will fit the bill.
What Is a Singer Sewing Machine?
The Singer company is one of those manufacturers that needs no introduction since the name of it speaks for itself. And yet, as we've made the in-depth research and compiled these best sewing machine reviews, we feel the need to say a few words about it. Established in the middle of the 19th century, Singer has soon become one of the leading manufacturers of sewing machines all over the world. Its name stands for quality and the popularity of the company doesn't fade ever since. Each of the appliances produced by Singer is made with the user in mind. The catalogue of Singer products contains a variety of different models of sewing machines designed to meet the needs of both beginners and professional users so anyone can find the unit that will have the needed amount of stitch patterns, provide enough speed options, feature some additional functionality and include at least a few additional accessories. The advantage of all Singer sewing machines is that they not only can handle pretty much all types of material as well as thread but also the fact that they all look great and offer a slew of usability features making their use both effective and enjoyable.
What Features to Compare
Choosing a sewing machine among Singer appliances, you can be sure that whatever model you buy, you’ll get a high-quality machine that will serve you reliably for years. However, all machines differ in specifications so you want to consider several features to find the machine that will meet your very sewing needs.
Sewing Capabilities
Sewing capabilities are one of the first features to pay attention to. By this, we mean the type of shuttle, stitch patterns, and sewing speed. There are two shuttle types – horizontal and vertical oscillating hook bobbin – each of which has its own advantages. A horizontal shuttle makes it easier to place the bobbin inside the machine while a vertical one can work with threads of any thickness. Yet, a horizontal type of shuttle is more popular among the manufacturers of sewing machines. You might also prefer a horizontal type more since a vertical one needs regular lubrication for proper operation. Every machine has a number of preset stitch patterns, including basic, decorative, stretch, and automatic ones so you can choose those which you need for your sewing projects. The majority of mechanical Singer sewing machines are equipped with 20-30 stitch patterns while electronic appliances can boast from 70 up to 800 patterns. As for the sewing speed, usually, it's pretty high in Singer machines and varies within the range of 750 to 1100 stitches per minute. You may also find models with adjustable speed that makes it much easier for the novice to master sewing.
Additional Features and Adjustments
The more additional features and adjustments your sewing machine has, the more functional it is. Free arm option allows you to remove an extension table of your machine so that it'd be more convenient to sew such articles of clothes as cuffs, collars, and hems. The locking stitch function, 1-step buttonhole, thread cutter, needle threader (all automatic) are the features that make the sewing process precise and effortless. The automatic tension, automatic reverse option, dozens of needle positions, adjustable stitch length and width are what will rid you of the necessity to perform manual operations thus saving you time.
Presser Feet
A number of presser feet that come included in the set allows you to handle a lot of tasks, starting from making simple stitches and ending with attaching buttons and zippers to your garments. A presser foot is used to hold fabric firmly in place so that it doesn’t stretch or fold. Depending on what exactly you are sewing, you may need to use several absolutely different feet - for buttons, zippers, and fabric. The advantage of buying Singer sewing machines is that on top of the all-purpose foot most of them come including at least 4 pressure feet additionally.
Did you know?
Nowadays, Singer sewing machines are one of the leaders in the modern market and its name doesn’t even need to be introduced due to its overwhelming popularity. The company offers its clients high-quality electronic and mechanical sewing machines, embroidery machines, and sergers as well as garment care products that are sold all over the world. But was the Singer company this successful from the very beginning? Let’s have a look at several main stages of its development.
- The Singer company was established in the middle of the 19th century by Isaac M. Singer and Edward Clark in New York. Although they weren’t the first men to work on sewing machine creation, they were the first men who managed to make a breakthrough in this sphere. Being an experienced mechanic, Isaac Singer invented the mechanism that resembles modern sewing machines by its operation principle and continued to improve it. By 1860s, his company became one of the leading sewing machine producers in the world.
- Isaac Singer managed to earn millions of dollars thanks to his sewing machines during the Civil War. He had a lot of orders for Civil War uniforms. However, after the war, the company continued to develop and became one of the main suppliers of sewing machines for home use.
- The Singer company started its business with mechanical sewing machines but thanks to constant development and improvement, it soon launched a new branch - electric appliances for home use. Thus, since 1910, the Singer sewing machines have become even more functional and convenient to use.
- We have already mentioned that Singer has become popular not only in the place of its foundation but also abroad. Thus, one of the first countries where Singer has built its factory was Scotland. The factory was established in 1867 and counted 2,000 people to work there. However, they didn’t cope with great workload and 15 years later, the factory was large enough to provide 7,000 people with jobs and produce 13,000 sewing machines a week.
- Singer has become popular not only by word of mouth. Although Singer representatives travelled from door to door advertising their appliances, it was one of the first sewing machine manufacturers that invested in marketing. Marketing strategies were aimed at manufacturing industry, credit plats, and gender identity. The company addressed itself to women making them an example of diligence and virtue.
- In 2011, Singer celebrated the 160th anniversary of Isaac Singer’s invention of the first patented sewing machine. For the Singer company, these 160 years were filled with hard work of thousands of people, development, and improvement of sewing machines, dedication to favourite business, and success as a result of work ethic and desire to become better. So, don’t hesitate to choose Singer sewing machines to get appliances of top-notch quality appreciated in the whole world.
Sources:
1. Debbie Colgrove Sewing Machine Presser Feet - What Are They and How to Use Them, The Spruce. February 18, 2017.
2. Manda McGrory A Buyer's Guide to Your First Sewing Machine, envato tuts+. August 26, 2013.
3. How to Choose a Sewing Machine, wikiHow.
4. Sewing Machine, Wikipedia. February 18, 2018.
5. Isaac Merritt Singer, Who Made America?
6. Sewing Machine Buying Guide, Consumer Reports. May 2016.