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Singer 7469Q Confidence Quilter Review (2023 update)
Note from the Editor: This Singer 7469Q Confidence Quilter review, was originally written in 2012, and has been revised and updated in 2023. We have added alternative computerized quilting machines, such as Juki TL-2000Qi, Juki HZL-DX7, Juki DDL8700, similar to the Singer 7469Q Confidence Quilter.
Sewing and quilting machines for home use are growing in popularity in sewing rooms the world over. The Singer 7469Q Confidence Quilter is not only a sewing and quilting machine; it is an ideal teaching machine.
Singer 7469Q Confidence Quilter Product Overview
The Singer Confidence 7469Q seamlessly blends innovation and ease, catering to both new and skilled quilters. Essential for patchwork, its programmable needle up/down feature ensures precision in quilting and fabric pivoting. The machine's versatility is further enhanced by four bonus quilting feet, providing endless creative possibilities. The automatic needle threader and Drop & Sew bobbin system simplify setup, while 98 built-in stitches and seven one-step buttonholes offer project diversity. With electronic twin needle control and adjustable stitch parameters, the Confidence 7469Q is a winning choice for a relaxing and creative quilting experience.
- Extended bed is quite useful when working with large pieces of material
- Easy to setup and use
- Has instruction manual and machine intro DVD
- Relatively quiet operation
- Comes with a series of presser feet
- Instruction manual does not cover everything
- LED light is not bright enough
One look at the Singer 7469Q Confidence Quilter and you know why the word ‘confidence’ is a part of its name.
The easy to thread and use guides are immediately obvious, as well as the quick reference stitch guide that slides out beneath the control panel. The convenient, easy to navigate touch pad puts the 98 utility, decorative and quilting stitches at the fingertips of the user.
Singer 7469Q Confidence Quilter Product Features
Whether this is your first sewing and quilting machine, or if you are replacing an older model, we believe home machine quilting enthusiasts at all skill levels will be pleased with the features offered by the Singer 7469Q Confidence Quilter.
- 98 built in utility, decorative and quilting stitches
- 7 automatic one-step buttonholes
- Bonus quilting accessories – listed below
- Large extension table
- Drop feed
- Heavy duty meal frame
- Programmable needle up and down
What are some alternatives to the Singer 7469Q Confidence Quilter?
Juki TL-2000Qi, Juki HZL-DX7, Juki DDL8700 are alternatives that I recommend for the Singer 7469Q.
Juki’s TL-2000Qi is a workhorse with an intimidating stitching speed, but it will not quite intimidate you because it is fairly easy to work with. If weight is an issue for you, it is a true industrial machine that weighs a lot. to counter that is extremely substantial. The device responds super quickly and gives you a rather smooth experience at the worktable. To save you time and tension while threading the needle, there is an automated threader. It's true that it takes a few attempts before you feel confident threading the needle. When working on large sewing or quilting tasks, the machine's working surface, which measures around 23 inches, is ideal. With the machine purchase, a flat-bed extension table is supplied to expand your workspace.
In order to hang on to the fabric and concentrate on the project you're working on, there is a knee lever that enables you to elevate or lower your presser foot without using your hands. For skilled and experienced sewers, this is useful. Since it is industrial in character and heavy-duty, this machine is ideal for professional sewers. It should last you for many years.
The Juki HZL-DX7 is a computerized household sewing machine that incorporates JUKI's industrial sewing machine technology to produce superior stitch quality and sewing performance. It is perfect for handling thick fabric and layers, and can be used to create a wide variety of projects, from cozy quilts to the perfect pair of jeans. The machine features 287 stitch patterns, including 16 buttonhole patterns, as well as free-motion capabilities with drop feed. Other features include a presser foot pivot function, thread trimming, needle up/down, straight stitch lever, and an automatic needle threader. The HZL-DX7 is a versatile and powerful sewing machine that is perfect for both beginners and experienced sewers.
Read the detailed review for Juki HZL DX7 here.
Working on the Singer 7469Q Confidence Quilter
Threading the Singer 7469Q Confidence Quilter and winding the bobbin are made simple with the easy to follow threading guide, top winding bobbin and see through bobbin cover. This also helps the user keep track of the amount of thread available on the bobbin before starting a long stitching or darning task.
Imagine being in the middle of an intricate quilting design and running out of thread in the bobbin. It has happened to the best of us at one time or another. Even the most talented of home sewers and the best of quilting machines equipped with a memory function will reveal a slight tell-tale sign of where the thread ran out and the pattern restarted.
With this simple feature in place, a simple glance will eliminate the need for trying to restart a quilting pattern without a hint of stopping and restarting. Since the Singer 7469Q Confidence Quilter is capable of both sewing and quilting, we decided to do something a little different for this review.
Rather than sample design and utility stitches on a one or two layers of light to medium woven fabric as is our practice with most reviews, we opted to use a piece of felt in order to sample the way stitches are produced on thick fabric. We found the pull out quick reference guide to be most helpful in identifying and selection available stitch options.
As it turned out, the each of the stitches we selected were well defined, sharp crisp and evenly spaced.
The standard even feed walking foot made working with this thicker fabric as easy as if we were working with thin woven fabric.
The Singer 7469Q Confidence Quilter is quiet, and operates smoothly. The standard work table doubles as an accessories case which, when removed, reveals functional free arm for sewing those small items. The large extension table is an added feature that makes large quilting projects as easy as can be.
What Fabrics Work On Singer 7469Q Confidence Quilter
| Fabrics that work | Fabrics that don’t work |
|---|---|
| Natural fibers/cotton-linen-wool Fine fabrics/silk-satin-taffeta/velvet Knits(Medium to heavyweight only) Synthetic fabrics/blends-rayon-polyester Upholstery Extra thick fabrics or multiple layers | Leather/suede Fur Reptile skin Canvas/Twill Plastic/Rubber |
Singer 7469Q Confidence Quilter Accessories
The standard accessories included with the Singer 7469Q Confidence Quilter are considered to be essential by the seasoned home machine quilter.
- 9 presser feet
- All purpose foot
- Zipper foot
- Even feed [walking] foot
- Open toe
- Straight stitch foot
- Darning & embroidery foot
- Special purpose/Satin foot
- Buttonhole foot
- Blindstitch foot
- Extra needles
- 4 size 15J bobbins
- Auxiliary spool pin
- 2 spool pin felt discs
- 3 spool pin caps (mini, small, large)
- Combination seam ripper and lint brush
- Seam guide
- Quilting guide
- Screwdriver
- Dust cover
Does the Singer 7469Q have a foot control problem?
Therese Dick, a SewingInsight reader and 7469Q user shared with us: “One thing you may not be aware of is that the foot control has a definite problem. There is a “capacitor” clip that breaks often in the foot control and this part of the machine is manufactured by many different entities. If there is long non-use of the machine and sudden frequent use, it happens. I took the machine to my local vendor/repair shop and because the foot that came with my machine – in the box – was made in China and it cannot be taken apart, I was going to be charged $50 for a replacement. I knew I could get it cheaper elsewhere, especially if this is a repeat problem. I went directly to Singer and got it for $26 and the foot control has screws to allow opening it for repairs. This one was made in Vietnam. I have only used this machine for about 5 months. If this is a repeat problem, that is unsatisfactory to have to keep buying replacement foot controls. When I mentioned the problem to the rep from Singer on the phone, she simply said “well it is what it is.” That too is unsatisfactory.”
Maintenance
| 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 |
Best Deal: Singer Confidence 7469Q
- Extended bed is quite useful when working with large pieces of material
- Easy to setup and use
- Has instruction manual and machine intro DVD
- Relatively quiet operation
- Comes with a series of presser feet
- Instruction manual does not cover everything
- LED light is not bright enough
Summary: Singer 7469Q Confidence Quilter review
As far as quilting machines go, the Singer 7469Q Confidence Quilter is possibly the best choice for the new home sewer. We have covered the why’s in our deep dive-in Singer 7469Q Confidence Quilter review. This machine is capable of sewing as well as quilting and is very easy to set up and operate. The $449 manufacturer’s suggested retail price is not only affordable, it is also within reach of practically every home sewer.
The pricing is a reasonable expenditure for the beginning home sewer who has limited experience with any sewing machine as well as the experienced home sewer who has lots of experience with machine quilting and is in the market for a new machine to add to their sewing room inventory. We do not, however, recommend this machine for use by children younger than 16 years of age.
Every sewing and quilting machine designed for home use has some of the standard features that can be found on the Singer 7469Q Confidence Quilter. The standard features and accessories that accompany this home sewing and quilting machine not only enhance the sewing and quilting experience, they go a long, long way toward making sewing and quilting on the Singer 7469Q Confidence Quilter more efficient and user friendly.
The ergonomic design and useful function buttons, such as the twin needle capability and on board stitch guide, not only simplify the sewing and quilting process, they are major assets for any sewing machine. We recommend the Singer 7469Q Confidence Quilter for anyone in the market for a new sewing and quilting machine.
Singer 7469Q Confidence Quilter Review
Summary
The Singer 7469Q Confidence Quilter is a computerized sewing machine that is designed for both quilting and everyday sewing. The machine has 98 built-in stitches, including 10 exclusive quilting stitches, as well as a variety of sewing functions, such as a needle up/down button, a thread cutter, and a free arm. The machine also has a large work table that can be extended for quilting projects.
The machine is easy to use, operated quietly, and has been set at a comfortable and affordable price range.
Overall, the Singer 7469Q Confidence Quilter is a well-reviewed sewing machine that is a good choice for both quilters and everyday sewers.
Other Singer Sewing Machine Posts
If you are an advanced sewist, have a look at our best sewing machines, best sewing books and best sewing magazines posts and if you are looking to get a mechanical, heavy duty, quilting or industrial sewing machine, have a look at some of our great articles. If you are a beginner sewist, review our best sewing books for beginners, best sewing machines for beginners and best sewing machines under $200 to get started.
For brand related articles, check Best Bernette | Best Bernina | Best Brother | Best Husqvarna Viking | Best Janome | Best Juki | Best Singer |
For best accessories, check Best Chairs | Best tables | Best tracing paper | Best machine oils | Best scissors and shears | Best presser feet | Best needles | Best sewing kits |
Happy Stitching.
I thought your overall review was good but you did mention it has drop down feed dogs and what I would like to know is how it does with free motion quilting.
Cheers Michelle in Oz
Dear Michelle –
Thank you for visiting sewinginsight.com.
Dropping the feed dogs on the Singer Confidence Quilter 749Q is a little tricky. Page 12 of the owner’s manual will give you a very good illustration of how the process works.
You must first remove the accessories tray. The switch that controls the feed dog level is cleverly hidden on the back side of the machine… behind the needle plate to be exact. I must admit, this is the first time I’ve ever seen a drop feed control in that position. However, once you find it, you’ll discover that it works quite well.
Happy Stitching.
I have noticed that very few reviews of quilting machines ever make any mention of a machine’s throat size and its ability to handle large, thick quilts. But, with my wife’s current Brother sewing machine, the limited throat size is a real impediment to sewing larger quilts. Plus it’s not compatible with any free-motion feet. How does this Singer machine measure up regarding the throat size and the free-motion capability? Thank you, Vernelle!
Hello, John –
Thank you for visiting Sewing Insight.
I, too,have noticed that there isn’t much difference between the needle to column space on sewing machines and machines designed for sewing and machine quilting. If you are in the market for a true quilting machine for your wife, I suggest you be prepared to invest in a machine that is designed primarily for quilting – like the Juki 2010Q. If you have the space to accommodate a larger quilting machine, you might consider the HandiQuilter Sweet 16, the Baby Lock Tiara II or the Janome Artistic Quilter SD.
This doesn’t answer John’s question about the throat size on this machine. I too would like to know the throat size as I am thinking of buying THIS machine.
Thank you.
Vicki
Hi,
I purchased this machine during a short-lived quilting phase. Lately I’ve been using it to sew clothes and make zip pouches. I noticed the dog feeds don’t pull the fabric through on it’s own (i.e., guiding fabric with your hands in front).
I find I have to help the fabric along from the side of the needle or gently tugging it through from behind the needle. If I don’t, the fabric just stays under the needle, or makes for a very uneven line of stitches. Is this normal? Or Is this machine simply not designed for what I would like to do?
If not, I might consider investing in a new machine.
Possibly a reasonably priced Janome.
Any advice or other machine recommendations would be greatly appreciated. Many thanks in advance! 🙂
The Confidence Quilter has an extra high presser foot lift. Make sure it is all the way down. If this doesn’t help, you will most likely have to take it in for servicing. Unfortunately, this is a problem I had with a Singer that I purchased back in the 1980s. The problem was never resolved to my complete satisfaction. Eventually, I sold the machine at a yard sale. Your decision to replace it – possibly with a Janome – might very well be your best solution.
also, make sure your feed dogs aren’t dropped. (switch on the back of free arm. )
Grab the top and bobbin thread before you start sewing and this may help the fabric get going.
I bought this machine from Ideal Home Exhibition trusting that it must be a reasonable price i.e £300.00 Later I found out that they are available elsewhere for £200.00
This stall was by SINGER company itself. Despite paying the asking price I had to send it for repairs within one one year for multi problems. When I bought this machine my sister also bought with me and facing several problems. Very frustrating. I think it should have a five year guarantee instead of one.
Hi,
I have tried to use the hand-look quilt stitch (02 setting) on cotton fabric, with both polyester and cotton threads (both in the top and bobbin), and using various stitch lengths, but I never get a clear quilt stitch, i.e. a long stitch preceded and followed by a “blank space”.
I get a long stitch preceded and followed by very short stitches, apparent to the eye, so they do not look anything like “a hand-look quilt stitch”…
Is this what they are supposed to look like?
Hi,
I recently removed the throat plate of my Singer 7469 to clean out any lint or fuzz around or under the bobbin case. When I went to replace the throat plate, the screw holes do not line up correctly and the throat plate will not lie flat like it did before. Can you help me figure out what I am doing wrong?
Thank you,
Debbie
I was gifted a singer confidence quilter model 7469 serial # H13033E46910192 & i don’t have a book so i need 2 know how 2 work it needing 2 find a book
I’m searching for the pull out quick link guide that slides into the front of the Singer Confidence Quilter 7469Q. Do you have a link for me to order that stitch pattern guide? Thank you!
I am having a problem understanding what the code means on my machine. When I turn on the machine, a code of “88” appears. I have looked in all my books which came with the machine and do not find what this means or how to correct it. I would appreciate your help.
Thank you for your help.