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Singer 160 Limited Edition Review (2023 Update)
Note from the Editor: This Singer 160 Limited Edition Review was originally written in 2012, and has been revised and updated in 2023. Singer 160 was a limited edition release and is no longer available. We have added alternatives such as Singer Making The Cut, Singer 4432, and Singer 4423.
This year, the Singer Company released a limited edition sewing machine called the Singer 160, to commemorate the 160th anniversary of the introduction of the very first Singer sewing machine for home use to the public, and I wasted no time in getting down to work a review of it. This vintage looking machine has all the visual appeal of earlier models, but is loaded with features and specifications that definitely let you know that this is not your great grandmother’s Singer.
Just like Grandma, however, you can have the Singer 160 Limited Edition delivered right to your door by purchasing yours online through amazon.com. If you prefer to try it out first, all you have to do is visit your local authorized Singer dealer.
Singer 160 Limited Edition Overview
Singer 160 is a vintage style mechanical sewing machine which was a got a limited edition launch to commemorate a major milestone anniversary of Singer. Singer 160 is an entry level sewing machine in a very pretty vintage frame. This model packed 24 inbuilt utility and decorative stitches, 2 automatic one-step buttonholes, an automatic needle threader, OneTouch stitch selection, and a few more impressive modern day features. Looking at the frame it would be easy to assume that this is a completely manual sewing machine but it isnt. Singer launched this model under the vintage theme with the deliberate attempt to deliver an illusion. If you own this, it is a great aesthetic catch if you are a fan of retro since you also get all the updated mechanical features in this.
Singer 160 was a limited edition release and is no longer manufactured. We recommend trying out alternatives that we have added to this post.
There is no way anyone over the age of 40 could possibly look at the Singer 160 Limited Edition without triggering nostalgic memories of watching their grandmother or aunt whipping up new dresses, skirts, blouses and curtains on her old black Singer sewing machine with the gold decals.
The Singer 160 Limited Edition has the same antique shape and shiny black patina. The decals are so close to the original Singer accents that I was tempted to look up photos of antique Singers to make a comparison of our own.
To our delight, the decals, while perhaps not exactly identical to the decals used on antique Singers, are extremely close.
Unlike Singer sewing machines of days gone by, however, the Singer 160 Limited Edition is loaded with up to date features and the latest technological advances, designed to make sewing on this beauty a true delight.
While reviewing, I could not help but smile over how Grandma and Auntie would have absolutely loved to have had access to the many features and accessories that come with the Singer 160 Limited Edition.
What are some alternatives for the Singer 160 Limited Edition?
I have already mentioned before that the Singer 160 was a limited edition that was available for a very short time and is no longer manufactured. Here are a few home sewing machines that I recommend in place of that if the vintage look is not a necessity for you.
The Singer M3330 Making the Cut Sewing Machine, featured on Amazon Prime's MAKING THE CUT, is the machine you might want to add to your sewing room if you're searching for a reasonably priced sewing machine with enough capabilities for beginners who want to learn how to sew and for advanced sewers who want to make a variety of sewing projects. This machine offers 97 stitch applications, adjustable stitch options, a built-in needle threader and a built-in cutter for efficiency, and "Making the Cut" technology for unique designs. Its one-step buttonhole, LED lighting, and durable metal frame make it perfect for quilting, garment making, and DIY projects. The included essentials make it ideal for project kick-starts.
- Offers 97 stitch applications, suitable for various fabrics and sewing projects
- Full metal frame ensures long-lasting performance, providing stability during use
- Built-in needle threader and one-step buttonhole simplify the sewing process
- Long-lasting LED lighting provides bright, cool-to-touch illumination for precise work
- You won't be able to use this basic sewing machine, if you're a top-tier professional, to work on complex sewing jobs
Experience the power of the Singer Heavy-Duty 4432 sewing machine, designed for lasting durability with its heavy-duty metal frame. This versatile machine offers 110 stitch applications, from basic to decorative, conveniently displayed on the user-friendly Stitch Selector Dial. Benefit from features like automatic one-step buttonhole, automatic needle threader, and enhanced piercing power for sewing through multiple layers. With a faster motor, it sews up to 1,100 stitches per minute, making it ideal for larger projects. Explore creativity effortlessly with the Singer 4432, equipped with top-notch features for sewing enthusiasts.
- Versatile machine with box feed for continuous fabric pressure
- Adjustable feed and pressure settings
- Can sew heavy denim and handle different fabric weights
- Good for basic sewing tasks
- Reliable for occasional sewing and repairs
- Bobbin tension is not self-adjusting
- Confusing setup instructions and bobbin threading
- May struggle with very thick leather
The Singer 4423 Heavy-Duty, hailed as the best value for money, caters to a diverse range of projects with its 23 built-in stitches. Ideal for both beginners and seasoned sewers, its automatic needle threader minimizes eye strain, while the high-speed capability of 1,100 stitches-per-minute ensures swift completion of tasks. The heavy-duty metal frame adds durability, allowing it to effortlessly handle thick fabrics. With a comprehensive set of accessories, this workhorse is a reliable companion for various sewing ventures.
- Blazing fast
- Compared to other Singer sewing machines, the top-load bobbin is easier to use
- Amazing sewing power for both thin and thick fabrics
- Sensitive foot pedal for beginners
- Needle threader only works when the needle is perfectly up
What are the features on the Singer 160?
The Singer 160 Limited Edition is equipped with lots of great features. The most outstanding of all these features are listed below:
- 24 built-in utility and decorative stitches
- 2 automatic 1-step buttonholes
- SwiftSmart threading system
- Automatic needle threader
- Quick-view stitch setting
- Easy stitch adjustment prevents
- OneTouch stitch selection
Working on the Singer 160 Limited Edition
Over the years, I have sewn on possibly hundreds of sewing machines. However, I have never seen one as easy to thread as the Singer 160 Limited Edition.
Threading this machine takes just three steps… pass it through the thread guide; down toward the needle and then press the lever on the left side to engage the automatic needle threader. It’s just that simple.
Winding the bobbin is just as easy. Again, the process takes only three steps. After passing the thread through the guide and around the bobbin guide to the bobbin, snap the bobbin winder into place and press the foot pedal.
Once the bobbin is filled, open the bobbin housing and drop it in.
Selecting one of the 24 stitch options is as simple as touching the icon of the desired stitch on the panel.
Once your stitch selection is made, the Singer 160 Limited Edition automatically sets the ideal length and width for you.
However, you can override that feature and set your own stitch length and width if you want to create a customized stitch of your own.
For this review, I tested several different stitch options and was pleased to learn that selecting and creating stitches on the Singer 160 Limited Edition is even easier than the manufacturer suggested on the website.
Regardless of the stitch selected, I found the stitches to be well formed, balanced and sturdy.
The box feed feature assures that regardless of the fabric thickness, the feed dogs remain in contact with the fabric at all times.
This is one of the best means of all to prevent fabric bunching up during the sewing process.
The on board thread cutter, drop feed, easy stitch selection, automatic needle threader and quick start reference guide make sewing on the Singer 160 Limited Edition one of the most pleasant experiences I have ever had.
Which fabrics work on the Singer 160?
| Fabrics that work | Fabrics that don’t work |
|---|---|
| Natural fibers/cotton-linen-wool Fine fabrics/silk-satin-taffeta/velvet Synthetic fabrics/blends-rayon-polyester Upholstery | Leather/suede Fur Reptile skin Canvas/Twill Plastic/Rubber Extra thick fabrics or multiple layers Knits(Medium to heavyweight only) |
What accessories come with the Singer 160?
If you think the Singer 160 Limited Edition has the same accessories of your grandmother’s old Singer, you will be pleased to learn that this updated version of Grandma’s sewing machine has lots of great 21st century accessories, including:
- 5 presser feet
- All-purpose foot
- Zipper foot
- Buttonhole foot with underplate
- Blind hem foot
- Satin stitch foot
- Extra needles
- 4 class 15J Bobbins
- 3 spool caps (small, medium and large)
- Extra spool pin
- Spool pin felt
- Screwdriver
- Seam ripper/lint brush
- Soft dust cover/carrying case
- Instruction manual
- Quick start guide
- Introductory/instructional DVD
How to maintain the Singer 160?
| Maintenance activities | After each use | Monthly | Once each year | As needed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Clean race hook and feed dogs | Yes | No | No | No |
| Wipe head with soft dry cloth | No | No | No | Yes |
| Wipe head with soft damp cloth | No | No | No | Yes |
| Lubricate | No | No | No | No |
| Service by sewing machine repair professional | No | No | Yes | No |
Summary: Singer 160 Limited Edition review
No doubt there are sewing machines on the market that are faster and offer more stitch options. Nonetheless, I think the Singer 160 Limited Edition is an ideal choice for anyone who loves to sew.
I also like this machine for the beginning sewer. It has all of the features that a new sewer would need to learn the art of sewing, but not so many features and bells and whistles that a novice home sewer might be intimidated.
The unique vintage appearance, ease of threading and operation are definite advantages for any sewer.
The older home sewer who may have reduced the amount of time they spend on the sewing machine could well be tempted to return to sewing most if not all of their clothes and home décor accents.
The new sewer will be delighted with learning on such a user friendly machine.
Add to all of that, the soft cover that was thoughtfully designed with an opening for the handle on top and you have a perfect lightweight portable sewing companion that is ready to go whenever and wherever you want.
The main thing to bear in mind, however, is that this fantastic machine with its reasonable $599 manufacturer’s suggested retail price is only available for a limited period.
Amazon.com offers the SINGER 160 Anniversary Limited Edition for around $350 (at the time of writing this review) which is a great bargain.
If you think a Singer 160 LE is in your future, don’t get left out. Get yours at Amazon.com or pay a visit to local Singer dealer for a demonstration.
Singer 160 Limited Edition Review
Summary
The Singer 160 Limited Edition is a basic, mechanical sewing machine that is perfect for beginners. It has 20 built-in stitches, including a variety of straight stitches, zigzag stitches, and decorative stitches. It also has a reverse stitch, a needle threader, and an automatic bobbin winder.
The 160 Limited Edition is easy to use and has a great stitch quality. It is also a durable machine that can withstand heavy use. If you are looking for a basic, easy-to-use sewing machine with a variety of stitches, the Singer 160 Limited Edition is a great option.
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Happy Stitching.
I’d like to find out if you can recommend type of needles for 221 -feather .
I also need to find the price for the 160 limited edition black singer.
Regards .
I have 2 brand new Singer 160 Anniversary Machines with all the accessories listed above as well as a soft-sided carrying case. I am asking $500.00
I can be reached at dec3rd@verizon.net
When I put my gathering foot on and put on straight stitch it want gather. Please help me