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Singer 66 Review (2023 Update)
Note from the Editor: This Singer 66 review was originally written in 2012, and has been revised and updated in 2023. Singer 66 is an antique today and is no longer manufactured. We have added present day alternatives such as the Singer 4432, Singer Making The Cut, and Janome 2212.
I very recently stumbled upon the opportunity to review a Singer 66 and I could not be more thrilled and grateful. Perhaps you saw one of these in an old movie. Perhaps, like me, you were lucky enough to see one in your grandmother’s house. Just walking into Fort Lauderdale’s Pfaff Sewing Center and seeing this Singer treadle sewing machine took me back to our teens, summers with our grandmother and learning to sew on her beautiful treadle sewing machine.
It was a magnificent piece of furniture as well as a highly functional one. The Singer 66 is a non-electric, treadle operated, single stitch antique. It’s nearly one hundred years old, yet it still runs like new. One can’t help but wonder how many of the new computerized sewing machines on the market today will still be in use at the turn of the next millennium.
Singer 66 Product Overview
The Singer 66 is a single stitch non electric sewing machine that first introduced the horizontally mounted rotary hook arrangement with the drop top bobbins. This machine was launched over a hundred years ago and different variants of this model was launched throughout the years that it was manufactured. A few consistent features were the 12 spoked balance wheel, metal gears and changeable motors. All Singer 66 machines were great at sewing through thick fabrics.
Singer 66 is an antique and is no longer manufactured. We recommend looking at alternatives that we have listed in this post.
The Singer 66 started out as a treadle sewing machine in 1900. It was also available as a portable a hand crank option.
Sometime around 1920, a motor and numbered tension dial were added by a Singer dealer. That machine, as well as the treadle and hand versions, remained in production until 1939, when the Singer 66 was replaced by the 201 model.
Collectors refer to the original decals on Singer 66 machines distributed in the US as “red eye” because of the unique pattern featuring a red dot in the center of the ornate design.
While reviewing, I learned that Singer 66 sewing machines sold in Great Britain featured a different design widely known as the lotus design. Those ornate decals were replaced by the basic gold Singer trademark decals sometime between 1910 and 1920.
Earlier models of the Singer 66 were equipped with a presser foot that is unable to be removed and a bobbin that must be wound by hand.
As time went on and electric motors became standard on the 66, accessories such as a ruffling foot and other presser feet specifically designed for fluting, binding and other straight stitch functions were added.
After the introduction of electric sewing machines, many treadle machines were outfitted with motors. While there aren’t many around today, some Singer 66 electric and hand crank models, were portable, mounted in wooden carrying cases.
The Singer 66 has been a reliable, dependable sewing machine from the very beginning as evidence by the fact that at least one owner literally risked life and limb for her Singer 66.
Annie Pratt bought her Singer in the 1920s. When the Germans bombed her hometown of Plymouth, England, during World War II, rather than run for shelter, Annie ran home to save her beloved sewing machine. She escaped with her machine in tow and sustained only a few burns on her hands.
What are some alternatives for Singer 66?
I have already mentioned in this review that Singer 66 is an antique and no longer manufactured. Here are some modern day sewing machines that I would recommend if you are not specifically looking for a vintage or an antique.
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
Read a detailed review of the Singer 4432 here.
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 Janome 2212 Sewing Machine offers a seamless entry into the world of stitching for beginners. Boasting 12 built-in stitches and a four-step buttonhole, this mechanical marvel prioritizes simplicity. Its dial pattern selection and adjustable stitch width and length guarantee a user-friendly experience. Whether you're a novice exploring the art of sewing or a seasoned enthusiast, the Janome 2212's light-weight design and versatile features, such as the free arm and drop feed, make it an ideal companion for a range of projects. With manual tension control and straightforward functionality, it caters to the practical needs of those taking their first stitches.
Read the detailed review for Janome 2212 here.
What are the features on Singer 66?
The first Singer 66, went through several different incarnations, and each incarnation brought with it a different set of features. So it is difficult to definitively review the features of Singer 66.
However, the single most distinguishing feature was the oscillating hook, which made it possible for the bobbin to be merely dropped into place.
Today, that drop in bobbin remains a popular feature among home sewers the world over.
Working on the Singer 66
The Singer 66 that we had the privilege of reviewing is table mounted and while not in pristine condition, sews better than many newer machines. The stitches are sturdy and absolutely beautiful.
If you are lucky enough to get your hands on an original manual, you will be guided through the processes of threading the needle and winding the bobbin. Accomplishing the task without the guidance of a manual is challenging for a novice, but easy for someone who is familiar with very basic sewing machine operation can figure it out on their own.
The trick is winding the bobbin. This reviewer had the advantage of having worked on one of these machines many years ago, and it’s true what they say… It’s like riding a bicycle. After a couple of minutes of staring blankly at the machine and trying to get our bearings, it all came back to us.
If, on the other hand, you have never even heard of winding bobbins by hand, then you are in for a rough time. But think about it. Only someone with prior experience or knowledge about this machine, or a true sewing enthusiast would ever attempt to operate it.
A logical conclusion would be “why go through all that work when you could simply plug in a new machine and let it do the work of winding bobbins for you? Besides, new machines have thread guides and all sorts of gadgets and gizmos to make your sewing experience easy.” They simply don’t know what they’re missing.
This model has one of the first drop-in bobbins very much like the bobbins of today. Earlier models had elongated bobbins and bobbin cases that resembled bullet casings. After threading the needle and bobbin, the real fun began. It took just a few brief moments for this reviewer to recall how to get the machine going.
You turn the flywheel toward you while pumping the treadle back and forth. In no time at all, the machine was humming along, giving us the most beautiful stitches we had seen in a very long time.
Then, one of our old tricks came back to us. Rather than try to pump the treadle with one foot or even pump with both feet going in the same direction, we placed our left foot behind our right foot and pumped the treadle somewhat like one would pedal a bicycle.
With that little maneuver, we were sewing at a rate of about 500 stitches per minute and they were every bit as beautiful as when the machine was going much slower. There is no built in lamp, but plenty of space to add a lamp to the workspace.
With just one simple step you can adjust the stitch length to accommodate different fabric types and thicknesses and for basting, but do not expect anything else in that department. The table that this machine is mounted on definitely shows its age. It is scratched, scarred and appears to be weather worn.
It is totally unlike our grandmother’s oak sewing machine table. Hers was highly polished, had four drawers for accessories, oil, scissors, tape measures, and pins. It also had a hinged leaf and the capability for the machine to be lowered into a well when it was not in use.
The leaf served as additional work space when you were sewing as well as a protective cover for the machine when it was in the well and not being used. This, on the other hand, is a no-frills, barebones table. It doesn’t have any drawers and the machine head is permanently on display.
When this Singer 66 treadle sewing machine isn’t in use, it must be covered to protect it from dust and dirt. This table does, however, have two utility drop leafs that add workspace and functionality. Just looking at the table suggests that this Singer model 66 was never meant to be used in a private home. We suspect that this version of our grandmother’s home sewing machine was used for industrial purposes in a tailor’s shop or dressmaker’s studio.
The machine head, itself, is well oiled and obviously well maintained, but it, too, shows definite signs of heavy use. All of the decals are worn off. You could barely make out the word “Singer.” The paint is chipped and in some places, the paint is worn off completely.
No doubt, this was not a pampered machine. The treadle, belt and moving parts are in excellent condition. Simply because of its age, the Singer 66 should be pampered.
Any sewing machine that has survived for nearly one hundred years deserves special care. Because of its size, the person who purchases this machine would be wise to have a professional sewing machine service provider make a house call about once every year or so to make sure it is operating at optimal capacity.
Doing so may be a little costly, but if you invest in a machine like this, it is much like investing in an antique car.
You pamper it, take exceptional care of it and expect to spend a little more to keep it running like it did when it was brand new.
Which fabrics work on the Singer 66?
| Fabrics that work | Fabrics that don’t work |
|---|---|
| Natural fibers/cotton-linen-wool Fine fabrics/silk-satin-taffeta/velvet Synthetic fabrics/blends-rayon-polyester | Leather/suede Fur Reptile skin Canvas/Twill Plastic/Rubber Extra thick fabrics or multiple layers Knits(Medium to heavyweight only) Upholstery |
What accessories does the Singer 66 come with?
Although neither the owner’s manual nor the original accessories were available for the machine we reviewed, we were successful in finding a copy of an original owner’s manual online.
The accessories listed as “included with this machine,” were as follows:
- Quilter
- Ruffler
- Foot hemmer
- Adjustable hemmer
- Tucker (for creating pin tucks)
- Under braider
- Bias gauge
- Ruffling and shirring plate
- Guide (seam guide)
- Binder
How to maintain the Singer 66?
| 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 66 review
Seeing and working on this Singer 66 treadle sewing machine is truly nostalgic and that was one of the best parts of doing this review. It is capable of instantly bringing to life all kinds of memories for those of us who grew up around machines like this one, including memories of fresh cakes, cookies, pies and a constant flow of home cooked meals coming from Grandmother’s kitchen.
Sitting down to sew at the Singer 66 is an experience that every sewer should have at least once in their lifetime, and I am utterly glad that I did this review and got to use the machine myself. It gives you a new appreciation for your craft and the people who perfected it. Experienced sewers will appreciate the work and skill it took to produce the clothes, and home decor items that were made on a regular basis.
Regardless of the level of your sewing ability, seeing, touching and operating a Singer model 66 will enrich you as a sewer. It does not matter if you sew only occasionally; if you sew regularly for yourself, family and friends; or if you sew professionally every single day. New sewers will get a valuable history lesson, helping them better understand and appreciate the machines and sewing technology of today.
Sewing on a Singer 66 treadle sewing machine also comes with an added benefit. We must share that for the first time in months, our legs got a great workout without our having to spend an hour or more on a treadmill! Ever wonder why your grandparents were not concerned about getting enough exercise? When you think about it, there was no need for fitness centers, mall walks and personal trainers with sewing machines like this.
If the Singer model 66 was capable of making zigzag stitches and doing some of the other tasks that we have become accustomed to modern machines handling, it would be a great alternative for indulging in a favorite pastime while getting that all important physical exercise. Cosmetics aside, whoever had this Singer 66 treadle sewing machine before it found a home at the Pfaff Sewing Center took excellent care of it.
Wayne Duke, co-owner and manager of the Pfaff Sewing Center where I did this review, tells me that when this Singer 66 sewing machine came into his shop, he only had to reassemble it, wipe off the dust accumulated during transit, give it a little oil and it was ready to go on display.
Even though this is not an electric sewing machine, it can only give you a straight stitch and is not capable of performing any of the functions of newer sewing machines, Wayne suspects that this not so pretty antique will not be on the market for long.
Singer 66 Review
Summary
The Singer 66 is a basic, mechanical sewing machine that is perfect for beginners and hobbyists. 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 Singer 66 is a durable machine that can withstand heavy use. It is also easy to maintain, as it does not have any computerized components.
The Singer 66 is a great choice for sewers who are looking for a basic, easy-to-use machine that is made to last. It is not the most feature-rich machine on the market, but it is a good value for the price.
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Happy Stitching.
I actually have a Model 66 “red eye” that was manufactured in 1915. It is electric and even has a reverse, then I am blessed to have a 1924 Model 66 “red eye” treadle machine that I learned on. Both are in very good condition and working group order. As a matter of fact I made my son a shirt for Christmas on the 1915 model. Who would do believe that these machines would still be working and working well after 100 years? I also have a 1948 Model 201 that is in pristine condition. I take turns using these machines and really enjoy them.
I just bought a 1915 Singer red eye 66 and would like to know precisely what attachments there are. Can you share a photo of yours. My Red eye is in the shop nearly a month now and don’t know if it is a back attachment, but it does a drop in bobbin. I have searched online and am not certain what the attachments for this machine uses. Would you be able to help me please?
If you have a 66, didn’t you notice that the machine in this post is not a 66? It’s an industrial Singer model.
Are you sure that machine is a 66? It looks similar to an industrial treadle like one I have here 31k20. Lovely machine but definitely not a home machine.
Hi, Penny, As i said to Laura (below) my Mums Singer is an industrial model, and a small plate on it has 31K 32, & what I think is registration No. Y8926635. Any information you could pass on would be really welcome! Shame I cant post a picture!
Wow! If I was new to Singer machines, I would have applauded your blog. Unfortunately, I know it too well that the picture in your blog on Singer 66 is actually a Singer class 31 INDUSTRIAL sewing machine. It is bigger and stronger than the domestic Singer 66 and definitely meant for heavy duty sewing. The class 31 Singer machines CAN handle leather and upholstery with the right needle and thread.
Laura,
I am new to the vintage Singers. I am looking for a beginner’s guide to finding the different variants of machines, when they were made, and what model does what. I believe that I want a 201, but I am up for advice. It sounds like you know quite a bit about these beautiful machines, is there a resource that you recommend to get a pictorial guide with specs and differences between machines?
Much appreciated,
Donovan
Thank you so much for your reply. Ive just aquired my Mums Singer Sewing machine, (she was 102!) & am doing lots of hunting to find out about it. The picture was the thing that stopped me in my tracks, it looked like the proverbial country cousin. I knew mine was an industrial model, the way the treadle has the extra space. And it definitely sewed heavy goods, my father was a high-end shoe-maker and frequently used it for leather.I learnt to sew on it,too. Lots of work ahead to get it all bright & shiny again!
I inherited a beautiful 1910 model 66 with redeye decals. It is in the original cabinet and from what I understand was used mostly for sewing leather. I’ve been cleaning the surface but do not have a manual in order to know how to oil it. Does anyone know where I can get one? (I’ve seen a few for 66-1 or 66-18 but don’t want to spend money on one that might not be accurate to this machine).
I would be willing to pay photocopy and mailing cost if someone has one they would be willing to copy for me.
Vernelle,
Thank you for taking the time to review this machine (regardless of its specific model number or variant). Your website is a true gift for those of us who like to sew, but many never get around to actually getting to use all of these wonderful machines in person. Thank you for the escape into the vintage Singer review!
Donovan
Yes great machine the 66, I have the attachments and manual. There is a manual online, type in Singer 66 and manuals library is the spot , free.
As others have noted, Indeed a Singer Class 31 industrial machine, on a fairly rare industrial treadle base. Very solid machines
I bought a model 66 in a yard sale for $7.50 in 1990. The serial number fascinated me, AC265001 (1928) and started collecting attachments and accessories in boxes with the original manuals. I bought a Singer type 57 cabinet and bench and stripped and re-varnished them; they are handsome pieces of furniture.
It sews a neat straight stitch that is tight and doesn’t come undone easily.
Probably the only drawback is it’s weight, it’s heavy as all get out, but that that’s what makes it so durable. My machine is good for at least another Century.
Amazing site! I have a 1916 66k lotus flower. I also have a treasured 319k which is as modern as I want to go.
Mind you, I just rebuilt a boat canopy using my 185k. So much fun. My first modern machine was a Necchi Millepunti. Far too delicate for my heavy hands. Knocked the timing out and then stripped off the outer panels. The inside was covered in swarf from the machining. Horrible!
My Singer 66k is the UK made model that is a portable electric powered model and I find it fantastic, I use it on a regular basis but it lacks reverse stitching. I also have two 99k’s that also get used regularly they are 3/4 the size of the 66k. Singers from a hundred year’s ago are really wonderful machines.
I also have two Janome New Home machines from the mid 1970’s that have additional stitch selection if I need that option on the sewing tasks I undertake.
The Janome machines are mechanical and use drop in cams to do the fancy stitches at nearly 50 years old they are performing like new still. These Janome made machines from the early 70s are quality machines just like the early Singer sewing machines are and well worth buying if you get chance to acquire one. I don’t own a modern machine as computer chip driven machines are a bit of a con in my view, they are vulnerable to power spikes and power surges that can happen quite often depending on the way your power is delivered to your home. As the chap who services sewing machines locally said “your buying a chunk of plastic and a chip for hundreds of pounds or dollars”.
As others have said, this is a model 31 not a 66. It’s an industrial machine based on the mechanism of the model 15, so doesn’t have a drop-in bobbin but instead a removable end-loading vertical bobbin case.
The foot on the early model 66 is removable, it just isn’t compatible with other Singer feet – the screw is at the back rather than the side of the presser bar. A full range of attachments was available with this fitting, but they’re rare now. The later side-clamping presser bar will fit an early machine if you want to convert it.
The “have to wind the bobbin by hand” nonsense is because the bobbin winder is missing from the pictured machine – you can see the lighter patch on the table top next to the belt where the bobbin winder should be fitted.
That is not a 66 .. it is an industrial machine for God’s sake. Look at it.. does it look like your machine all you commenting on your 66’s check out the size the laong am the harp space look where the stitch length knob is located. LOL This article has lots of errors other than the wrong machine ..BTW you oil it before you use it
Try a model 31-15
Or try try another of the 31 series maybe the 18 or 20 I see that one has a raised metal ring where the spool goes the 15’s don’t
My eighty-something mother still has her Singer 66K treadle, in its original table with drawers, and still in full working order. She bought it used, a couple of years before she married. A serial number check dates it to 1925.
These machines cannot sew leather, canvas or other heavy fabrics? WRONG! When I was growing up, Mom reupholstered a 1930s club lounge suite (three-seater and two armchairs). The 66K easily dealt with thick, textured fabric, hessian and canvas.
Mom also sewed countless pieces of clothing, heavy winter coats, and curtains, both heavy and sheer. Her grand old lady never let her down.
There is no way a Singer 66, much less an industrial Singer, is not suited to sew multiple layers or heavy fabrics like upholstery, canvas/twill, etc, as per the list given. My eighty-something Mom still has her 1925-vintage Singer 66 treadle, bought second-hand more than 60 years ago. In that time, the 66 has sewn everything from chiffons to hessian, sail-grade canvas, and heavy textured fabrics like astrakhan wools, all without missing a beat. The grand old lady is still in perfect working condition, and I’ll be using her for an upcoming upholstery and curtain project.
The machine in the pictures is DEFINITELY NOT a Singer 66, but an industrial model, likely a 31. The extra long harp space, the small flywheel on the machine head, the extended foot pedal on the treadle are all features of industrial models, not domestics like the 66. There are many other errors in the article, such as when the Lotus decoration was discontinued. It was discontinued in the mid-to late 1930s, not “between 1910 and 1920”. I own three Lotus-liveried machines, built in 1925, 1929, and 1935. Their age is confirmed by looking up their serial numbers.
As for straight-stitch domestic machines being incapable of zig-zag functions, this is not true. There are many attachments which allow such machines to produce decorative stitches, blind hem stitches, and buttonholes.
Maybe found a place to get information on my 1951 anniversary edition 66 series first where can I get an instruction manual for repairs for a low cost I plan on cleaning the machine in depth also where can I get an instructional manual for cheap this is a new hobby and am looking forward to start the project as soon as I can thanks
Hola, das mucha información desajustada a la realidad. Antes de la 66k si existían máquinas con prensatelas que se podían quitar, tengo yo varios modelos mas antiguos y se quitan y TODAS las que tengo anteriores también tienen soporte para hacer canilla. Incluida las de lanzadera. Las 66k tienen esta opción no sé porqué la que usas no. Después de la 66 no vino la 201 hay otras entre medias 99k por ejemplo. . Pff… y podría seguir en cosas que has dicho que NO SON. Cuando te pones a investigar para dejar un post que todo el mundo va a ver incluso las que saben de máquinas hay que informarse más y no dar solo opiniones. Soy coleccionista y tengo mucha investigación hecha y este post me parece que no tiene ni pies ni cabeza.
Por cierto la 66k si cose cuero, tapicería, lona, piel y la máquina que enseñas no es una 66k. Hacemos un post de una máquina que no es siquiera, muy profesional.