Singer is perhaps one of the most known and long-respected sewing machine manufacturers in the world. Founded in 1851 by American inventor and businessman Isaac Merritt Singer, the company now ranks at the top of the world’s best sewing machine companies list. It is also one of the three brands owned by the American company SVP Worldwide, the other two being Husqvarna Viking and Pfaff.
Singer is famous for top-quality and creatively designed sewing machines that focus on providing effectiveness, comfort, and practicality. Throughout the years, the company has continued to prove that it can meet the needs of its customers by advancing its sewing machines with innovative technologies that allow for even better use.
Singer provides an array of products for every level of sewing, including heavy-duty embroidery and quilting, and much more. The company’s mission statement is that it strives to be the leading global authority in the sewing industry and is dedicated to inspiring seamstresses to express themselves through the craft of sewing.
In this Guide
- Singer Sewing Machine History
- Best Singer Sewing Machine
- 1. Best Singer Sewing Machine For Beginners – Singer 4411
- 2. Best Heavy Duty Singer Sewing Machine – Singer 4452 Heavy Duty
- 3. Best Computerized Singer Sewing Machine – Singer 9985 Quantum Stylist Touch
- 4. Best Singer Sewing Machine For Quilting – Singer 7469Q Confidence Quilter
- 5. Best Basic Singer Sewing Machine – Singer Promise II 1512
- 6. Best Portable Singer Sewing Machine – Singer 2277 Tradition Essential
- Singer Sewing Machine Accessories
- 1. Best Thread For Singer Sewing Machine – Madeira Incredible Threadable Embroidery Box
- 2. Best Oil For Singer Sewing Machine – Lily White Oil in Plastic Tube with Extendable Spout
- 3. Best Presser Feet For Singer Sewing Machine – Singer Serger Blind Hem Foot
- 4. Best Power Cords – Singer Power Cord #122
- 5. Best Feet Controls – Singer Foot Control & Cord 988275-003
- 6. Best Bobbins – 20 Pack of Class 15 and Class 2518 Metal Bobbins
- Conclusion
Singer Sewing Machine History
The date the company was founded was when Isaac M. Singer issued the patent for the first Singer sewing machine, which would become the basis for many more to come. In only a few years, Singer became the largest-selling brand of sewing machines internationally, also winning the first prize at the World’s Fair in France in 1855.
By 1865, Singer had begun producing newer models of sewing machines, such as the “New Family” sewing machine, and in 1870, the now-classic Red “S” girl trademark debuted. It was produced in several different languages.
By the end of the century, Singer had reached 90% of the global market share. New Singer models kept getting introduced into the market with the electric motor-powered model, Singer Portable Electric, in 1921 and the Featherweight 221 in 1933, an iconic Singer sewing machine that stayed in production for over 30 years.
During World War II, Singer paused the production of sewing machines to create wartime items and support the Allied forces. In the 1950s, Singer had been able to train hundreds of thousands of sewists in its 600 sewing centers.
In the mid-1980s, the brand introduced an entirely new line of sewing machines with more technologically advanced models, entering the digital age. In 2001, after celebrating 150 years of continuously creating quality products, Singer launched the Quantum XL-5000 machine, which is regarded as the world’s most advanced home sewing and embroidery machine.
Keeping with the times, Singer continued to produce new models such as the Futura machine in 2005, a more affordable computerized embroidery machine, the Inspiration machine in 2007, a new entry-level machine, and the 2nd generation of the Futura model in 2010, the XL 400. In 2011, the company celebrated its 160th anniversary, and in 2015 it launched a new line with even more modern and advanced sewing machine models.
Through the company’s long span of existence, Singer was able to introduce a lot of firsts in the global market, such as the first lightweight domestic sewing machine with the Grasshopper model in 1858, the first practical electric sewing machine in 1889, the first zigzag machine with the Slant-o-Matic model in 1952, the world’s first electronic sewing machine with the Athena 2000 in 1975, and the world’s first computer-controlled machine with the Touchtronic 2001 in 1978. Moreover, Singer also introduced the world's first sewing assistant app for mobile devices with the Sewing Assistant App in 2017.
Today, almost over 170 years after the company was founded, Singer remains committed to the same quality standards that it was based on. Through its products, it continues to provide excellent service, innovation, and, most importantly, reliability, which has made it the number one choice for many customers worldwide.
Location & Contact Information
While the company’s base has changed throughout the years, the current Singers sewing machine headquarters are in La Vergne, Tennessee, United States. Today, retail shops worldwide sell new and old Singer sewing machines to the brand’s loyal customers.
The Singer sewing machine contact number for customer support is 1-800-474-6437. However, the company’s website offers a variety of options for services for the Singer sewing machine users that require assistance with their equipment.
Vintage Singer Sewing Machines
Due to the company's long history, a lot of Singers' older sewing machine models are now considered to be vintage. These vintage Singer sewing machines can be valued from $50 to several thousand dollars depending on their condition.
A factor that determines the sewing machine’s value besides its condition is the model. Collectors will look for vintage models with certain traits or accessories, which can make them more valuable. For example, if you own a vintage Singer model that happens to be in the line of the first sewing machines with a specific trait, this can increase the value of your machine quite a lot.
The rarity of the model is also significant for its value. Many older models tend not to survive the passage of time, so they become rarer to find. Therefore, a collector would probably be willing to pay more to obtain a rare vintage Singer sewing machine in good condition. Of course, regardless of its value, a vintage sewing machine adds a classic element to your space, so having one allows you to have a great decorative piece in your home with a lot of history behind it.
Best Singer Sewing Machine
Singer has a large variety of contemporary sewing machines so that anyone can make a selection based on their individual needs. The ingenuity behind the manufacturing of the Singer machines can please even the most demanding customers. Let’s take a look at the best Singer sewing machine for each category.
1. Best Singer Sewing Machine For Beginners – Singer 4411
The Singer 4411 is great for someone who is learning how to sew. Its functions are very simple, and the machine is very user-friendly. Within only a few days, you can learn how to sew on this machine confidently.
Of course, the best part of the Singer 4411 is how reliable it is. Starting your sewing journey can be intimidating, and the last thing you need is to have an unreliable sewing machine. Thankfully, this machine is a tool you can rely on to get you through your first years of sewing.
Another positive attribute is that this machine is also for heavy-duty sewing tasks. You can sew more rigid materials with it, allowing you to gain more experience. Another classic trade is that the Singer 4411 will last you for years, as long as you try to maintain its good condition. However, if something happens, you will still be covered by the 25 years warranty.
- Automatic reverse
- Adjustable stitch length and stitch width
- 11 built-in stitches
- 5mm stitch width for a bolder look
- Top drop-in bobbin
- Three needle positions
- Automatic four-step buttonhole
- Presser foot pressure control
- Snap-on presser feet
- Free arm
- Extra high presser foot lifter
- Onboard storage in the removable sewing bed
- High-speed motor
- Heavy-duty metal frame
- Drop feed
- Stainless steel bedplate
2. Best Heavy Duty Singer Sewing Machine – Singer 4452 Heavy Duty
This sewing machine is part of the same line as the first entry on this list. The sewing machines in the Singer 4400 series are well known for being able to perform heavy-duty work. With the Singer 4452, you will be able to sew on all kinds of tougher fabrics such as leather, canvas, denim, and more. This allows you to have diversity in your sewing projects.
The machine’s strong motor is 60% stronger than a standard sewing machine motor, allowing you to sew faster and saving you a lot of time. The drop-in bobbin is also a great feature because it makes it easy for you to work, and it allows you to check when you are running out of bobbin thread. This machine also has a removable storage compartment to access the free arm, giving you more space to sew larger projects.
- 32 built-in stitches
- One-Step buttonhole
- Built-in needle threader
- Top drop-in bobbin
- Drop feed
- Easy stitch selection dial
- Reverse lever
- Adjustable stitch length and stitch width
- Adjustable presser foot pressure
- Stainless steel bedplate
- Heavy-duty metal frame
- High-speed stitching (1100/min)
- Extra high presser foot lifter
- Snap-on presser feet
- Three needle positions
3. Best Computerized Singer Sewing Machine – Singer 9985 Quantum Stylist Touch
The Singer 9985 comes with a built-in LCD touch screen, where you can access the stitch settings and adjust the stitch length and width settings and thread tension. The machine can also provide you with built-in assistance that will help you work more efficiently on your projects.
This model comes with over 960 built-in stitches and six alphabet styles, including ten essential, 21 stretch, 212 decorative, and 13 buttonhole stitches, which help you personalize your creations. With the touch of a button, you can modify your stitch pattern and add more stitch variety, all thanks to the automatic buttonhole styles.
With the electronic and automatic thread trimmer, you can simply trim the thread when you are done sewing by simply pressing a button. The stitch memory helps you save up to 60 characters, which remain available even after turning the machine off. Moreover, you can edit the stitch’s length and width with your editing capabilities and save them as a template for future use.
- 7mm stitch width
- High sewing speed
- Slow sewing speed button option
- Automatic reverse
- 25 needle positions
- Horizontal threading
- Automatic tension
- Extra-high presser foot lifter
- Automatic locking stitch function
- Optimum power control
- Snap-on presser foot
- On-board storage
4. Best Singer Sewing Machine For Quilting – Singer 7469Q Confidence Quilter
The Singer 7469Q is precisely what you need if you are interested in making quilting an easy process. This quilting machine has 98 fully automatic stitch patterns, including basic quilting stitches, decorative stitches, applique stitches, and automatic one-step buttonholes. Learn more about the stitch options in the video below:
The Singer 7469Q is also great for embroidery projects, and the stitch selection feature helps you choose your stitches with a simple press of a button. It comes with two long-lasting LED lights that remain cool no matter how long you use the machine.
The automatic unlatching of the needle when winding the bobbin makes it much safer for the user. The drop feed feature also allows you to have ease of movement during your work. Threading is also effortless thanks to the threading system that makes it last only six seconds.
- 12 frequent use buttons
- Lock function on decorative stitches
- Bonus quilters set of accessories
- Top drop-in bobbin with clear cover
- Automatic bobbin winding
- Auto-tension
- Drop feed
- Snap-on presser feet
- 6-second threading system
- Electronic stitch formation
- Pushbutton stitch selection
- Automatic optimum stitch settings
- Needle threader
- Adjustable stitch width and length
5. Best Basic Singer Sewing Machine – Singer Promise II 1512
While still a basic sewing machine model, the Singer Promise II 1512 offers every tool a sewist will need to work on an array of projects.
The sewing machine comes with 13 built-in stitches, including 11 basic stitches, one decorative stitch, and an automatic buttonhole. By turning a single dial, you select your stitch with ease, and you can adjust its length as you like. Threading becomes a simple process as the diagram guides you through all the steps, making the setup as easy as possible.
The Singer Promise II 1512 machine is a very user-friendly machine that is also perfect for beginners. Four presser feet are included, which can be stored in the accessory storage drawer. If you remove the drawer, you get a free arm for stitching, allowing free movement for more complicated projects.
- Easy threading
- 13 built-in stitches
- Simple stitch selection
- Automatic 4-step buttonhole
- Adjustable tension
- Preset stitch length & width
- Automatic reverse
- Snap-on presser feet
- Automatic presser foot pressure
- Heavy-duty metal frame
- Extra-high presser foot lifter
- Free arm
- Automatic presser foot pressure control
- Two needle positions
- Up to 5mm stitch width
- Thread cutter
- Twin needle capability
- Onboard storage
6. Best Portable Singer Sewing Machine – Singer 2277 Tradition Essential
The Singer 2277 Tradition Essential is a great sewing machine and easy to pack and move whenever needed. The packing is relatively easy and fast, and the setup is very straightforward, saving you a lot of time. It is also generally lightweight, making it very easy to carry around with you on your way to a sewing class or when changing working locations.
The Singer 2277 Tradition Essential is also perfect for beginners who are looking for a user-friendly machine that they can quickly learn how to sew on.
This sewing machine features 23 built-in stitches, including six essential stitches, 11 decorative stitches, five stretch stitches, and a fully automatic 1-step buttonhole. This portable sewing machine also comes with an assortment of accessories meant to provide you with all the support you need during sewing.
- Automatic needle threader
- Easy stitch selection
- Adjustable stitch length and width
- Automatic tension
- 23 built-in stitches
- Fully automatic 1-step buttonhole
- Extra-high presser foot lifter
- Automatic presser foot pressure control
- Heavy-duty metal frame
- Automatic reverse
- Twin needle capability
- Automatic bobbin winding
- Four-segment feed dog system
- Multiple needle positions
Singer Sewing Machine Accessories
While helpful features can make the difference between an average and a great sewing experience, it is a fact that a sewing machine is only as good as the accessories it comes with.
The thread, the oil, the presser feet, the power cords, the feet controls, and the bobbins are all things you need to carefully look for to get an ideal sewing experience. Let’s take a look at the best Singer sewing machine accessories.
1. Best Thread For Singer Sewing Machine – Madeira Incredible Threadable Embroidery Box
This Madeira thread kit includes over 80 spools of thread in various vibrant colors. The mix of colors provides you with diverse options to create anything you desire.
In the set, there are 80 smart spools of Madeira Rayon thread (220 yds each) and two spools of Bobbinfil thread (1650 yds each).
All the colors are labeled on the thread pocket, and the box set also includes a convenient thread color guide.
2. Best Oil For Singer Sewing Machine – Lily White Oil in Plastic Tube with Extendable Spout
Many more recent Singer sewing machines tend to come pre-lubricated, but you will need to check your machine’s manual to make sure that that is the case. If the manual does not include oiling information and instructions on how to do it on your own, it means that the manufacturer has already done it.
In that case, you do not have to take any extra measures. However, if you think it might need a little more, you can add a few tiny drops of sewing machine oil in the bobbin case area, on the handwheel, and the needle bar.
If your sewing machine requires you to regularly oil it yourself, you should know that the frequency of use will determine the frequency of the oiling. The more you use your sewing machine, the more often it needs oil.
For example, if you sew every day, it would be best that you lubricate the machine every week. If you sew once a week, then oil it once a month. If you sew only once a month, lubricate the machine every three months. This will help you keep up the quality and functionality of your sewing machine.
You need to make sure that you use a good-quality oil meant explicitly for sewing machines. This oiler will make sure to properly oil your sewing machine, avoiding over-lubrication or leaving stains on your working space.
However, besides lubrication, it is suggested that you have your machine tuned up by a professional every few years to maintain it in good condition. This is also true for machines that haven't been used for years. The less you use your machine, the faster the lubricant will dry out, and using it in that state can cause damage to your sewing machine.
3. Best Presser Feet For Singer Sewing Machine – Singer Serger Blind Hem Foot
This Singer-designed serger blind hem foot will keep your fabric stable during sewing, helping you complete your project with ease and quickly.
The serger blind hem foot is recommended for more stretch or textured fabrics such as skirts and pants.
Please note, this serger fits the following Singer sewing machine models: 14SH654 and CG754.
4. Best Power Cords – Singer Power Cord #122
A great power cord made specifically for several Singer sewing machines.
This power cord is compatible with the following Singer sewing machine models: 301, 319, 401, 403, and 404 Single.
5. Best Feet Controls – Singer Foot Control & Cord 988275-003
This Singer-made foot control will help you get a productive and pleasant sewing experience, allowing you to adjust your sewing speed as you like. The foot control also comes with a power cord.
This foot control is specifically made for the Singer Athena and TouchTronic 2000 series models. The exact Singer sewing machine models it is compatible with are the following: 900, 920, 925, 1022, 1030, 1036, 1040G, 1200, 1411N, 1411U, 1425N, 1425U, 1492, 17441, 2000A, 2001, 2005, 2010, 2110, 2114, 2118, 6110, 6120, 6130, 6136, 6146, 6156 and more.
6. Best Bobbins – 20 Pack of Class 15 and Class 2518 Metal Bobbins
This 20-pack of Singer-made metal class 15 bobbins (model: 2518) is an excellent accessory for your sewing tasks. They are designed to fit almost all Singer machines (over 2500 machines overall). However, before purchasing them, you need to check your manual to verify which bobbin style is suitable for your sewing machine.
Moreover, they also fit other sewing machine brands such as Baby Lock, Brother, Kenmore, Janome, Pfaff, White, Necchi, and much more.
Conclusion
Singer sewing machines are a staple on the global market as the brand has successfully become a synonym for top-quality and reliable products. The company’s long history of success and its large variety make customers quickly trust them. For this reason, it is often the number one choice in sewing machines.
Singer provides several different models that serve different needs, such as sewing machines for beginners, heavy-duty machines, computerized and basic, and embroidery and quilting machines
Of course, a sewing machine is only as good as the accessories you use for your sewing. Thankfully, Singer has also managed to produce several sewing accessories of equally high quality.