Singer 1304 Review

Not very impressed with what Singer 1304 has to offer. But still, it is good for very basic sewing tasks. Singer could have done a better job with this machine.

Singer 1304 Main Features

  • 6 built-in stitches
  • 4-step buttonhole
  • Extra high presser foot lifter

Singer 1304 Review

Sewing Machine Reviews Recommendation Level : LOW

Singer 1304 is a very basic beginners machine. It doesn’t offer a lot in features, but it is good enough to get you started. The machine has 6 built-in stitches which include straight, zig zag, blind hem, scallop and a buttonhole stitch. The buttonhole is 4-step one. Being an inexpensive mechanical sewing machine, the stitch selection is done with the help of a dial. Stitch width and length are preset for optimal results. The tension is automatic, which ensures consistent stitch quality.

Singer 1304 has a heavy duty internal metal frame which adds to the overall durability (exterior is full of plastic though). Singer has provided dual spool pins for easy twin needle sewing. For sewing cuffs and collars, you can covert the machine to free arm by removing the accessory storage compartment. A small LED sewing light is provided for illuminating the work space. One thing I really liked about this machine is the extra high presser foot lifter which offers more clearance for bulky fabrics. The machine comes with 25 year limited warranty. Singer 1304 is pretty lightweight. It just weighs 9.8 pounds. So it will be a good choice for those who attend sewing classes.

Usability

First of all, let me tell you one thing, you can’t really mark Singer 1304 as a feature rich beginners sewing machine. It is suitable for very basic tasks. The machine is very small and simple. It doesn’t have the luxury of fancy stitches, it is designed for basic mending and hemming, nothing more than that. The stitch quality is pretty decent, but I am not really impressed with the build quality. Don’t expect this machine to last long. It is a ‘Learn sewing and move on’ kind of a machine. Beginners will overgrow the machine quite quickly. Another disadvantage is the 4-step buttonhole which is difficult for beginners to work on. A 1-step buttonhole would have done a world of good.

Is It Worth Buying ?

It will depend on what price it is sold. The current price is too high for my liking. Moreover it lacks features like automatic needle threader, drop-in bobbin and 1-step buttonhole. The best alternative I can suggest is Brother XM2701 which comes in the same price range. It is the best sewing machine you can get in and around $100. It comes with 27 built-in stitches, automatic needle threader, drop-in bobbin, 1-step buttonhole etc. Personally I am a big fan of XM2701 because of the features and quality that it has for such a low price.


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