When you look at Singer 44S as an overall package, it does look promising. And it delivers on all the promises. I think you can close your eye on the fact that it is not 100% heavy duty.

Singer 44S Main Features

• 23 built-in stitches
• Automatic needle threader
• Top drop-in bobbin
• 1-step buttonhole
• Heavy duty

Singer 44S Classic Heavy Duty Review

Sewing Machine Reviews Recommendation Level : HIGH

You simply can’t ignore the fact fact that Singer 44S is extremely similar to the Singer 4423 heavy duty sewing machine, except for the color. While 4423 comes in grey or ash color, 44S comes in white. I actually like the color of 44S more than the ash color of 4423. This has to be the most beautiful sewing machine under $200. Now the question is, does looks really matter for a sewing machine ? No, honestly. We all know that how good a performer 4423 is. So 44S has its work cut out.

Singer 44S is a heavy duty mechanical sewing machine. The machine has 23 built-in stitches including 6 Basic Stitches, 4 Stretch Stitches, 12 Decorative Stitches and 1-step Buttonhole. The machine is equipped with an automatic needle threader for saving eye strain (not a huge surprise to be honest). It has a top drop-in bobbin with clear cover to monitor thread supply. The adjustable presser foot pressure is a real blessing. The pressure is pre-set but you can override it especially when you are working on multiple layers. In addition to that, the extra high presser foot lifter offers more clearance.

The heavy duty metal frame ensures quality stitches. The stainless steel bed plate easily slides the fabric across. The machine has a very strong motor for heavy duty sewing. Singer’s heavy duty series of sewing machines share the same motor and boy they are powerful. The motor used in this machine is 35% more powerful than any other beginner sewing machine (Singer says it is 60% more powerful, which is bit of an exaggeration, 35% is just about right). You can finish your projects faster.

Stitches are selected by turning the dial. Another dial is provided for stitch length adjustments. The stitch width and tension adjustments dials are provided on the top of the machine (tension is automatic, but it can be changed manually). The stitch width can be set to a maximum of 6mm. The reverse sewing lever could have been larger, never mind. Needle position adjustment dial is also provided on the top. 3 needle positions are available on this machine. Sewing cuffs and collars is easy, thanks to the free arm mode. You can do free motion quilting by using the drop feed option.

Singer 44S is twin needle capable, this adds a lot to the creativity. You can easily add decorative finish to your projects. Bobbin winding is made safer as the needle bar disengages while winding the bobbin. Overfilling the bobbin is not a problem as the bobbin automatically stops once filled. Workspace is illuminated by LED light. A storage compartment is provided for storing away the accessories. The machine weighs 14.5 pounds. A retractable handle makes the machine all the more portable.  The machine has 25 year limited warranty.

Usability

Singer 44S lives up to the heavy duty tag pretty well. The machine is pretty sturdy. It has a nice variety of utility and decorative stitches. The machine performs admirably on multiple layers of heavy-duty fabrics. As many as 6 layers of denim is a walk in the park for this machine. The machine has good beginner friendly features on board for an excellent price. Automatic needle threader, drop-in bobbin and 1-step buttonhole are some of them. The machines seems to have an excellent feed mechanism. There are no issues like skipped stitches or bobbin jamming. The tension seems to be perfect most of the time. The machine is durable as well. It will serve you long. One of the main highlights of this machine is how affordable it is. For the price, the machine is really worth every cent.

Limitations

Never be fooled by the heavy duty tag. All modern heavy duty sewing machines do have some plastic parts and Singer 44S is no exception.

A few more decorative stitches would have done a world of good.

Pros

• Powerful motor
• Quality stitches
• Excellent on multiple layers
• Affordable
• Durable

Cons

• Not 100% heavy duty

Is It Worth Buying ?

Overall, Singer 44S is a great package. It is not whole lot different from Singer 4423 except for the color. So compare the prices of the both the machines and choose the least expensive one, if you are not really bothered about the appearance. The reason I am saying this is because I have seen quite a big price difference between the two. So please don’t forget to compare the price.