Singer 14SH654 is an affordable serger. But there are areas of improvement and the fact that there is a newer version on sale makes it less appealing.
Singer 14SH654 Main Features
- 3-4 thread capability
- Differential feed
- Free arm
- 4 built-in rolled hems
Singer 14SH654 Review
Sewing Machine Reviews Recommendation Level : LOW
14SH654 is the predecessor of the popular Singer 14CG754 ProFinish serger. Actually the success of 14SH654 made Singer to think of an upgrade. So it is more or less guaranteed that 14SH654 will be a quality serger. However, we can’t say that without having a closer look at it. Singer 14SH654 is a 3-4 thread serger (the ProFinish 14CG754 is a 2-3-4 thread serger, which is a major upgrade).
The motor can deliver 1,300 stitches/min, which is powerful enough to go through any type of fabric. Stitches available on Singer 14SH654 are
- 3 thread overlock
- 3 thread wrapped edge overlock
- 4 thread mock safety stitch
- Flatlock
- Blind Hem
- Rolled Hem
Adjustable differential feed helps to maintain even stitch quality. For sewing cuffs and collars, you just need to remove the cloth plate to access free arm. There are 4 built-in rolled hem options on 14SH654. Moreover, you don’t need to change the throat plate to convert to rolled hem. All you need is to switch the lever. The color-coded lay-in thread tension and diagrams make threading very easy. Diagrams explain the system quite well.
The extra high presser foot lifter offers extra clearance for bulky fabrics. You can easily disengage the upper knife if you don’t want the machine to trim as you sew. The stitch length adjustment can be done by turning a dial. Stitch width is also adjustable. Singer 14SH654 is equipped with electronic speed control which ensures consistent sewing speed without any jump starts. A built-in carry handle is provided for portability. The machine just weighs 13.5 pounds, so it is definitely a lightweight serger. A storage compartment is also built-in. It comes with 25 year limited warranty as well.
Usability
Even though Singer 14SH654 comes with well marked out diagrams, it is not the easiest machine to thread. Threading the needle needs practice. Singer 14SH654 seems to have a liking towards lightweight fabrics. The stitch quality is good, no worries there. Tension adjustment is required according to the type of fabric. It is not ‘one tension fits all’ kind of a serger. Actually tension is one thing that you will have to adjust the most (many users had trouble with that).
Limitations
The lightweight of Singer 14SH654 is kind of a problem at high speeds as the machine seems to be unstable. It is a dancing machine and there are no suction cups to hold it in place.
Needles are hard to find. Especially now with an upgraded version on sale. #2022 and #2020 needles are hard to find.
Is It Worth Buying?
Singer 14SH654 is an old machine and it is not without limitations. So I think, you will be better of going with the updated version which is the, SINGER 14CG754. It even has 2-3-4 thread capability. Moreover, it has been well received by sewers. The price is also very similar.