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Singer 177C Review (2023 Update)
Note from the Editor: This Singer 177C review was originally written in 2013, and has been revised and updated in 2023. Since this is a vintahe device, it is no longer in production. We have added alternatives such as SINGER Making The Cut, Elnita EM16, and EverSewn Sparrow 15
I was elated when I had a chance to review the Singer 177C. Anyone who knows me knows that I enjoy working on vintage all metal sewing machines, and the Singer 177C was no exception. It sews only straight and zigzag stitches, and the quality of those stitches is impressive to say the least.
Singer 177C Overview
Singer 177C is a simple and compact home sewing machine that was manufactured in the 1960s. It is not feature loaded and has just enough to do simple sewing or repairs. The stitch length and width are adjustable, and the machine runs on an external electronic motor. The model also accommodates reverse stitch. Working on the 177C is not difficult. It has a relatively low learning curve and the machine runs extremely smoothly. There are no hiccups when it comes to delivery either. Stitch quality is neat and great and the machine is durable to have lasted so far and still working like brand new.
This is a retired vintage model. We recommend trying out other alternatives that we have added to this post.
The Singer 177C is a typical sewing machine from the early 1960s. It is all metal with an exterior motor mounted on the rear and a belt that goes from the hand wheel to the motor.
The belt is the integral component that makes the hand wheel turn when the foot pedal is engaged. The Singer 177C has a seam guide etched onto the needle plate.
The tension control dial is located just above the needle on the left side of the machine. The bobbin is loaded into the side of the Singer 177C beneath a sliding metal cover.
This particular machine was originally purchased in a wooden case. Time and wear and tear made it necessary for the owner to replace the original wooden case with a plastic one.
What are some alternatives for the Singer 177C?
We have mentioned in this review that the Singer 177C is a vintage model and is no longer manufactured. Here are some modern day alternatives that we recommend instead.
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
The Elnita EM16 Mechanical Sewing Machine is a reliable and durable machine that is perfect for beginners and those who prefer a simpler approach to sewing. With 16 built-in stitches, including straight, zigzag, and decorative stitches, this machine offers a range of options for basic sewing tasks. The EM16 also features a front-loading bobbin system, making it easy to load and replace the bobbin, and a free arm for sewing cuffs, collars, and other hard-to-reach areas. The machine is lightweight and portable, making it easy to transport and store. The EM16 also comes with a range of accessories, including a hard cover, four presser feet, and a seam ripper, to help you tackle any sewing project with ease. With its simple and straightforward design, the Elnita EM16 Mechanical Sewing Machine is the perfect choice for anyone looking for a reliable and easy-to-use machine for basic sewing tasks.
The EverSewn Sparrow 15 is a reliable choice for beginners and creative minds seeking an efficient yet budget-friendly sewing companion. Boasting a modern blue and white design, this electric machine offers 32 stitch patterns, including 15 utility stitches and 12 decorative stitches. Ideal for kids and those starting their sewing journey, it features user-friendly functions like a manual thread cutter and a 5 mm maximum stitch width. The Sparrow 15's robust build, automatic needle threader, and included accessories make it a practical solution for entry-level sewing enthusiasts. Aimed at beginners and kids, the Sparrow 15 offers an accessible entry into the world of sewing with a modern design and functional features.
What are the features on Singer 177C?
Like other sewing machines of its time, the Singer 177C doesn’t have a lot of features, only those that are absolutely necessary to make the sewing experience a good one.
- External electronic motor
- Adjustable stitch length and width
- Reverse stitch
- Adjustable presser foot pressure
Working on the Singer 177C
Winding the bobbin and threading the Singer 177C is slightly different from newer sewing machine models.
The Singer 177C is threaded from right to left. All the thread guides are on the left hand side of the machine, including the tension adjustment dial.
Although the Singer 177C has only one spindle, it is possible to wind the bobbin while sewing providing you have a separate thread stand.
To wind the bobbin with just a single spool of thread, loosen the hand wheel to disengage the needle and pass the thread through the guide on front of the machine and the bobbin tension discs on the lower front right.
The bobbin is mounted on the bobbin pin on front of the sewing machine. Then wind the bobbin by pressing the foot pedal.
Since the bobbin winding guides are completely separate and apart from the upper thread guides, winding the bobbin while sewing is possible.
If you want to wind the bobbin while sewing, merely put the bobbin thread on a separate thread stand. This feature is especially useful when working on a large sewing project that requires you to refill your bobbin multiple times.
The Singer 177C runs so smooth and quiet you would think it was brand new. Although it makes only straight and zigzag stitches, those stitches are absolutely beautiful. Each stitch is well defined, neat and extremely sturdy.
Stitch length is adjusted by turning the dial on the right side of the machine and sliding it up or down. The reverse stitch function is engaged when this dial is in the uppermost position.
Stitch width is adjusted by turning the dial at the top of the machine and sliding it left or right.
The one drawback I encountered was the fact that there is no drop feed. In order to sew on buttons or darn, it is necessary to first cover the feed dogs with the feed dog cover.
Which fabrics work on the Singer 177C?
| Fabrics that work | Fabrics that don’t work |
|---|---|
| Natural fibers/cotton-linen-wool Fine fabrics/silk-satin-taffeta/velvet Synthetic fabrics/blends-rayon-polyester Knits (medium to heavyweight only) Upholstery Leather/suede Extra thick fabrics or multiple layers | Fur Reptile skin Canvas/Twill Plastic/Rubber |
What are the accessories that come with Singer 177C?
The list of accessories included with the Singer 177C is equally sparse, giving the user only what was necessary to accomplish any normal sewing task and handle routine maintenance tasks.
- Special purpose foot
- Zipper foot
- Seam guide
- Lint brush
- Feed dog cover plate
- Oil dispenser
- Screwdriver set
- Owner’s manual
How to maintain the Singer 177C?
| 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 | Yes |
| Service by sewing machine repair professional | No | No | Yes | No |
Singer 177C Summary
The beautiful stitchwork is the reason why people who have been sewing for many decades still prefer to work on vintage machines.
Those who have invested in newer machines use them sparingly, and continue to rely on their vintage machines for most of their sewing needs.
A mechanical sewing machine like the Singer 177 is a great learning tool, even for children in elementary school.
It is sturdy enough to withstand rough handling by a novice and dependable enough to master any straight sewing task a seasoned home sewer would want to take on.
The person who owns this particular Singer 177C purchased it new around 1976 for $69. Since it didn’t come with a buttonhole foot, she invested in a buttonholer.
Owner’s manual
These gadgets were very popular and wonderful timesavers back then. Buttonholers continue to be the perfect sewing machine accessory when it comes to making multiple identical buttonholes.
They have several different templates, allowing you to make all types and sizes of buttonholes – keyhole, rectangle, oval and eyelets.
There’s a lot you can do with just straight and zigzag stitch options. If you like the dependable sturdy performance of an all metal workhorse of a sewing machine, you will not be disappointed by the Singer 177C.
It doesn’t come with a lot of extras that most of the newer sewing machine models have, but that just means there’s less that can go wrong.
The owner’s manual gives you all the information you need to know to care for it and perform routine maintenance tasks.
If you do decide to add the Singer 177C to your sewing room, you might be able to find one at a reputable sewing machine repair and re-sale shop in your vicinity or online at e-bay.
If the machine you acquire doesn’t come with an owner’s manual, take heart. You can download one free of charge at singerco.
Singer 177C Summary
Summary
The Singer 177C is a basic straight and zigzag stitch machine that was manufactured from 1974 to 1982. It is all metal, both inside and out, with a sturdy plastic handle on top. It has three needle positions and a dial on the column to adjust the stitch length. There are two levers across the top of the machine head: one for selecting the straight stitch option or one of three on board zigzag stitch widths, and the other for selecting the needle position. The Singer 177C is a reliable and durable machine that is still popular with sewists today.
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Happy Stitching.
Hi, I came across your web page and I own this machine since 1973. Any idea how to fix the bobbin winder. Mine recently stopped spinning. Should I take it to a repair shop (if they even exist) or could I fix it myself?
Hello, Dee –
Thank you for visiting Sewing Insight.
This machine is rugged, but if the bobbin is not winding properly, it may be something as simple as a worn out part… especially since you have been using it since 1973. The best thing for you to do at this point is to take your Singer 177C to a reputable sewing machine repair professional. I recommend asking people you know who sew where they take their machines for servicing.
If you cannot locate one in your immediate area, it is worth the effort to take a ride if necessary to get your machine fixed. This is a very minor problem that should be able to be corrected very quickly.
Happy stitching.
Hello Dee, I just was given a Singer Zig Zag Model 177. I read the instruction book but it does not say anything about bobbin size. Unfortunately, there were 3 or 4 different bobbins in the care but I am not sure which to use. I had it serviced but the tech didn’t leave a bobbin in the machine. I don’t want to put the wrong bobbin in and cause it problems. Do you know what kind of bobbin it uses?
I have a 177c series sewing machine handed down to me. Researching it, I noticed that it has a motor. The one I have has had the motor removed and converted into a treadle. Does this lesson the value of the machine. Can you give me an idea of what it could be worth?
Thank you I am having problems threading my singer 177c that a coworker gave to me it had the wrong belt .So I put it on a treadle bass that I found for 20.00.
Made in Brazil from 1970 – 74 …not early 60s !
Can you free motion quilt on the Singer 177c?
Hello, I wonder if you could possibly tell me whether I could use a walking foot with the 177c, and which kind might be best? I’d be so grateful. Thank you so much.