Singer Sewing Machines

The Singer name has been a name synonymous with sewing for more than a century, it was originally established as I.M. Singer & Co. in 1851 but landed its new name The Singer Company 88 years later in 1963. Singer has been committed to creating innovative sewing machines and developing new designs since its inception, and it is this dedication and creativity that has made Singer such a recognised name within the industry.

The History of Singer Sewing MAchines

The Singer Company grew rapidly after its first mass produced sewing machine and as such had to expand overseas. Its first factory outside of the USA was in Glasgow, Scotland, but many more were to follow, including Kilbowie, the world’s largest sewing machine factory.

With one of the largest ranges of sewing machines on the market, and grabbing numerous world ‘firsts’, it’s no surprise that Singer is often associated with durability and reliability. Unfortunately this sense of trust in Singer has dwindled over the years as the brand has tried to compete with new budget machines on the market. The materials used in today’s machines are of a much lower quality, meaning that a Singer from twenty or thirty years ago is likely to last longer than a brand new one.

This poor quality is most associated with Singer’s low to mid-range machines, rather than those at the top end of the range. After all, Singer does still produce the most advanced home sewing machine in the world. The sewing machines manufactured by Singer are one of the UK’s best-selling brands and can be purchased around the world.

The Featherweight 221k

One of Singer’s most successful sewing machines was the Featherweight 221k which went into production in the UK in 1947. This machine was incredibly successful for many years, and actually prevented its successor the 222k from launching independently. For a short time, Singer produced both machines to keep up with customer demand. This is the sort of machine that many people will be referring to when they use the term ‘old Singer’.

Moving on to Singer sewing machines on the market today and there are still some great products around. The Singer 2250 is one of the few durable machines from the company that you can get on a tight budget. This machine is the ideal companion for light sewing tasks such as mending at home, so it is a good choice for beginners. The 2250 has enough features without being so complex that it causes confusion to the average novice. Thanks to the 10 stitches, two needle positions, and stitch size control, this Singer is versatile enough to keep any light user going for a many years.

The Singer Confidence Range

Singer’s best range, the Confidence range, has a number of great machines including the 7463 and 7465. This range of sewing machines has been designed by Singer to inspire confidence into its customers by making sewing tasks simple, less stressful, and more enjoyable.

The Singer 7463 has a whole host of easy to use functions including one-step button holes, and automatic needle threader, automatic tension setting, and electronic stitch formation. The letter is a fantastic feature as it means that every single stitch is formed exactly the same. Simplicity is definitely at the forefront of this machine, but it still provides users with the features and functions they need for enhanced sewing.

Singer’s next step up in the Confidence range is the 7465. This machine is also fully electronic and provides users with the same basic function as that of the 7463, but has some nifty additional ones too. With the drop feed users can carry out free motion work, manually adjust stitch length and width, thread a needle with its 6-Second system, and select stitches with the PushButton Selection. This sewing machine is a complete breeze to use for novices and professionals alike.

The Quantam Stylist 9960

One of Singer’s highest quality sewing machines is the Quantam Stylist 9960. This machine does just about everything, it has over 600 stitch patterns, 13 automatic buttonholes, 25 needle positions, and so much more. The LCD on the front of the machine offers advice and guidance to the user such as help selecting the correct presser foot. The automatic needle threader makes the mundane task of needle threading super-fast, and also provides manual adjustments to perfect your stitching.

In the event that you are struggling to get to grips with your new Singer sewing machine, you can check out the instruction booklets or see if your model came with an instructional DVD.

When shopping for a Singer it is a good idea to read some expert reviews to create a shortlist of the most reliable machines. Some of those sewing machines in production, like those named above, are of the highest quality and will provide you with years of enjoyment. However, Singer has created a bad reputation in recent years for its budget machines which are nothing like the Singer’s of old.