Partner disclosure: SewingInsight.com is a participant in the Ebay Partner Network and Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. We earn a small advertising fees by linking to products on Ebay and Amazon. This does not increase the price for you as a reader but you will support our small business.
Singer Brilliance 6180 Review in 2024
Note from the editor: This Singer Brilliance review was first written in 2013, but it has been updated and changed in 2024. We have included many spare parts of the SINGER Brilliance 6180 as well as better alternatives such as Making the Cut, HD 4423 and the 9960, in increasing order of price
A friend asked me to review her brand new Singer Brilliance 6180. The main reason for her calling me was that she couldn’t get it to work properly and thought perhaps she was doing something wrong.
Read below to see my detailed comments!
Singer Brilliance 6180 Review: Overview
The Singer Brilliance 6180 is a handy machine feature-wise, although it does lack a few things that would make sewing more comfortable and are available on other Singer devices.
To show off the goods, the 80 built-in stitches can be changed to fit your specific needs and are always set to the best level. The Singer Brilliance portable sewing machine has basic, decorative, and stretch stitches, so it can be used for a wide range of sewing projects. With a maximum sewing speed of 750 stitches per minute, projects can be sewn quickly. The complete machine, from the spool to the needle's eye, can be threaded in only six seconds because of how simple it is to do so. The free arm makes it simple to reach smaller or more challenging-to-reach regions, including cuffs, collars, pant hems, and other areas.
- Big arm
- Inexpensive
- Fresher-friendly
- Not well-made
At A Glance
When I arrived, she had the machine all set up with the accessories, instruction manuals, and instructional DVD on a nearby table.
In all honesty, the Singer Brilliance 6180 doesn’t look much different from any of the other new Singer models, so I fully expected it to function much the same as well. The stitch design panel is clearly displayed on the front right panel, with the LCD situated directly above the stitch selection and length/width adjustment buttons.
The thread guides were clearly defined on the top and front of the machine and were very easy to follow. In addition, the bright LED light above the needle shed provided illumination for the work surface.
I did, however, notice that the Brilliance does not offer a start/stop button, variable speed control, drop feed, or the capacity for the user to control the variable needle positioning.
Features
According to the owner’s manual, the Singer Brilliance 6180 has the following on-board features:
- Automatic needle threader
- 80 built-in decorative and utility stitches
- 6 automatic 1-step buttonholes
- Automatic needle threader
- Adjustable stitch length and width
- Variable needle positions
- Automatic tension adjustment
- Quick Start Guide
- Stitch guide helps new users determine when and how to use built-in utility stitches
- Introductory DVD
Working on the Singer Brilliance 6180
My friend has been sewing for quite a few years. I knew she was a competent sewer and could not understand why she was having a problem with her new Singer Brilliance 6180.
When I got to her house, the machine was threaded properly and everything seemed to be fine. Just to make sure. I took out the upper thread and threaded it myself. I then re-checked the bobbin to make sure it was wound and inserted properly.
The straight and zigzag stitches were not the greatest I’ve seen, but they were well defined and tight. When I sampled different stitch lengths and widths, the Singer Brilliance 6180 performed well. I wasn’t, however, thrilled with the fact that the ‘variable’ needle position was pre-set, giving the user absolutely no control over when and where to position the needle for custom sewing tasks.
The real problem arose when I tried to use the decorative stitch options. First of all, if you want to use a certain stitch, you have to press the arrow up buttons to get to the stitch you want. If you go past the stitch you want by accident, you have to go through the whole cycle again to get back to the stitch you want. There is no way to go back.
When sewing a combination of stitches or switching from straight to decorative stitches and back, you must press these buttons far more than I believe is necessary.
The basic straight stitch assignment is 00. If you want a decorative stitch in the 30-40 range… let’s say stitch number 35, you must first press the up arrow on the left from 0 to 3, then the one on the right until you get to 5. In order to get back to your straight stitch after completing the decorative stitch, you must press the button on the left through the entire numerical sequence from 4 through 9 before getting back to 0.
Then you would have to go through the same process with the button on the right. This is by far the biggest time waster I’ve encountered on any new sewing machine. With every decorative stitch I dialed up, I encountered a problem. None of the many decorative stitches came out as they were supposed to. The feed dogs were not passing the fabric properly beneath the presser foot.
In some cases, the fabric merely moved in tiny circles. With other options, the fabric barely moved and with some, it didn’t move at all. We watched the DVD and read the manual from cover to cover. There was absolutely no information anywhere that addressed the problem she was having.
I told her it was rather obvious to me that the problem was with the mother board and she should take it back to the store for a refund immediately.
Singer alternatives we recommend
Compared to the Singer Brilliance 6180, the newer models from Singer have better functions and support. As alternatives, we recommend Making the Cut, HD 4423 and the 9960, in increasing order of price.
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 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
Versatility, premium features, and precision define the Singer Quantum Stylist 9960. The sewing machine scores full marks in terms of 600 built-in stitches, which comprise stretch, decorative, and quilting options to pamper your inner sewer. Then, the device comes ahead with a needle threader and automatic thread cutter to save you time. You will even come across a speed control slider designed for both professionals and beginners. The machine also startles you with 13 fully automatic buttonholes and a wide array of presser feet to boost the value so you can sew diverse projects.
- Various stitching options
- Intuitive, easy-to-read LCD screen
- Allows 850 stitches per minute with a robust motor
- You get an additional table and wide presser feet.
- Heavy structure.
- Limited throat space for massive quilting projects.
Singer Brilliance 6180: Fabrics
| Fabrics that work | Fabrics that don’t work |
|---|---|
Natural fibers/cotton-linen-wool Fine fabrics/silk-satin-taffeta/velvet Knits Synthetic fabrics/blends-rayon-polyester Upholstery |
Singer Brilliance 6180: Accessories
Although the list of accessories in the owner’s manual and on the Singer website was slightly different, the accessories included with this particular Singer Brilliance 6180 are as follows:
- 3 presser feet
- General purpose
- Zipper
- Buttonhole
- Lint brush/seam ripper
- Large spool cap
- Two spool pads
- Darning plate
- Three class 15 metal bobbins
- Screwdriver tool
- Extra needles
- Dust cover
According to the Singer website, however, the accessories included with the Brilliance 6180 should have also included an auxiliary spool pin and the following additional presser feet.
- Invisible zipper foot
- Button foot
- Overcasting foot
- Blind hem foot
- Roller foot
Since all of the smaller accessories were still sealed in a plastic bag when I got there, I could only assume that someone made a mistake at the factory or that the extra spool pin and extra presser feet are only available if you buy the Singer Brilliance 6180 from a certain place. Ironically, neither the manual nor the website indicated that a dust cover was an included accessory, but my friend fund one packed with her Singer Brilliance 6180.
Singer Brilliance 6180: 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 | No | Yes |
Other Computerized Sewing Machines
If you are unsure of the Singer brand, check these cool computerized sewing machines that we highly recommend Brother CS 5055 and the Janome MOD-15
Priced under $200, the Brother CS5055 computerized sewing machine is a versatile powerhouse catering to both novices and seasoned enthusiasts. Boasting 60 unique built-in stitches, including utility, decorative, and heirloom functions, it allows for creative embellishments. The improved needle threader ensures hassle-free threading, complemented by a jam-resistant drop-in top bobbin for smooth operation. The durable metal frame and fixed needle bar contribute to cleaner stitching and even lines, handling diverse projects with ease. With a generous needle-to-arm workspace, users can tackle larger projects effortlessly. The CS5055, equipped with an LCD display and user-friendly features, transforms garments into personalized fashion statements, making it an ideal investment for sewing aficionados.
- Affordable
- More features than mechanical machines on this list so far
- Light-weight at around 10 lbs
- You can't order parts for this machine. You have to visit authorized repair centers
The Janome MOD-50, part of the diverse Mod line, offers 50 built-in stitches, including 3 one-step buttonholes. Ideal for unleashing creativity, it simplifies sewing modern garments, home decor, and quilts. With user-friendly features like easy threading, top-loading bobbin, and convenient buttons, this machine caters to both beginners and intermediate sewists. Its precision and reliability make it a go-to tool for tackling sewing projects with confidence. The MOD-50 seamlessly blends innovation and functionality for a satisfying sewing experience.
- Extensive Built-in Stitches
- Easy Reverse Button
- Can be a little noisy
Tying Off The Loose Ends
The Singer Brilliance 6180 is a good bargain. If a good bargain is what you want, I suggest you insist that you be allowed to put the machine through some of its paces before plunking down your hard earned money. As an older version of the Singer machines, I recommend you look for better alternatives such as Making the Cut, HD 4423 and the 9960, in increasing order of price.
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.
Other Singer Reviews you may enjoy
Singer 4411 vs 4452 : Unbiased Heavy Duty Machine Comparison
It’s been a long time since I’ve given a brand new Singer sewing machine a good rating. Obviously the folks at Singer are taking note and stepping up their game. In a way, the sewing machines in the Singer Heavy Duty line remind me of the old Singers. The machines in the Singer Heavy Duty line that I reviewed offer superior stitch quality, metal construction where it really counts, and best of all, they are affordable. These machines are capable of working on all types of fabric and require very little down time. Time will tell, but I suspect that with proper care and maintenance, they should provide many years of excellent service.
Singer Promise 1409 Review (2023 update)
It’s inexpensive. It’s not all that easy to operate. In my opinion, it’s good for mending and alterations, only. If you want to use it for constructing clothing or accessories, you might be sorely disappointed with this one. The Singer Promise 1409 is one of those sewing machines that is good for someone who doesn’t sew much or just wants to add a machine to their sewing room to be used exclusively for mending and alterations.
History of Singer Sewing Machines: Evolution of a Dynasty
Are you curious about the history of the Singer sewing…
Singer Brilliance 6180 Review
Summary
The Singer Brilliance 6180 is a good bargain. If a good bargain is what you want, I suggest you insist that you be allowed to put the machine through some of its paces before plunking down your hard earned money. As an older version of the Singer machines, I recommend you look for better alternatives such as Making the Cut, HD 4423 and the 9960, in increasing order of price.
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.
Thank You for posting this review. I am having the exact same problem with my newly purchased 6180. I shall return it back to the store promptly. I had hoped to find a feed dog/timing tutorial to deal with this problem, no luck there either.
Again, Thank You!
Nana
I absolutely love my machine works like a dream and I am an experienced sewer . It isn’t top of the range but suitable for what I bought it for love it .
Are you sure that you are putting it in the right way ? on mine I found if I turned it over it went in properly
I just bought this machine,and am having the exact same problem. I will also return mine to the store today. This is very disappointing. Thank you for your review and comments.
I’ve had this machine for a year now and I haven’t ever had a problem with it. It came with all of the accessories mentioned. It never chews up fabric unless I’ve done something drastically wrong and occassionally it will get a C4 error which is easily fixed by turning it off, rethreading everything and turning it back on.
It’s unfortunate that you had this experience but I’d hate people to judge their sewing machine on one bad review.
I’ve done a review on my website as well. Naturally it’s all positive because my experiences have been good but I hope it helps some people to make up their mind properly.
Great reveiew!
I’ have been interessted in this machine for a while now. I live of and on in Europe and the States. So I would like my machine to be able to wark in both contenents Currently I’m in Europe. I already know the European version wont work in the US. But online I just can’t find the answer for the US version. Can one of the ladies (that owns a 6180 brilliance) please check the voltage of the machine for me. If it’s 110V-220V, it will work in Europe too.
many thanks!!
Sofie
Dear Sofie –
Thank you for visiting Sewing Insight.
I’m not sure if you have tried this in your quest for a solution to your challenge as yet, but take a look at the manual for the 6180. http://www.singerco.com/uploads/download/3e3e5558857ed68836712ac8545abb48178772a5.pdf
The answer to your question may be there. Also… for future reference… all Singer sewing machine manuals are downloadable free of charge at http://www.singerco.com.
Happy stitching.
Thank you for your review. Glad your friend got a complete refund. What did she purchase after returning the 6180 and is she happy with her new machine? What did you or would you suggest?
Hello, Frances –
Thank you for visiting Sewing Insight.
My first recommendation was to never purchase a sewing machine from a big box store unless you are prepared to replace it within a year or two. If you want access to personalized customer service and long term service and lessons, start out by going to an independent authorized sewing machine dealer.
My friend didn’t get another machine that day. Instead, we had lunch and went to a movie. She finally took my advice and went on her own to a local Janome dealer where she bought a Magnolia 7330 https://sewinginsight.com/janome/janome-magnolia-7330-review/
Happy Stitching.
Purchased the Singer 6180 today, found it very easy to set up ran through all stitch programs without any problems, so far very pleased with the machine which came with table extension, Cover,3 spools, +feet.
I love my new singer brilliance 6180 I find it easy to use and performs beautifully the only negative thing is it stats to make an annoying squeaking noise after about half an hour of use and I can’t find what is causing it does anyone know who could tell me please?
Hi Amanda,
My machine has only ever squeaked when it needs oiling. Try oiling it and see if it makes it go away?
Amanda, I have this machine and the little squeak it had, I just oiled it. But off and on since September, the thread has been wrapping itself around the bobbin. Have you had this issue?
I have had my machine for over a year it is so easy to use, to increase stitch length press up or down arrow on round control circle to make the stitch wider or narrower press the arrows on the left and right, always try out on a scrap of old material until you get the length or width stitch you require, to change stitch pattern just press either of the two control buttons until you get the stitch you want, MADE A MISTAKE?? no problem just scroll through until you get what you want,Bobbin getting tangled ??? Check you have machine threaded right,Can also be caused by wrong tension setting,Don’t blame the machine unless you have read the manual and checked every thing it only takes one mistake when threading for things to go wrong
Have you oiled it well .
I bought a Janome 110 at a charity shop in the UK. As I sat down to work with it, I realized it’s missing the thread arm. I have used a Bernette for the past 5 years in the States and also worked with my grandmother’s Singer (converted to electric!) and my mom’s Bernina. You say your friend got a Janome. Is it worth putting some money into? The arm seems to be just a plastic piece and I only spent £20 on the machine. I can still get my money back at the charity shop. Thank you!
Hello, Clare –
Thank you for visiting Sewing Insight.
I believe you that if you can get the thread arm on the Janome 110 repaired, you will be able to work on this machine for many, many years. In the long run, the investment of the cost of the repair will be well worth it. I’m sure you don’t have the answer, but I am curious as to how i got broken in the first place.
I have had my wee lass for about three months, though didn’t have time to ‘play’ during December.
I recently tried all the decorative stitches, including the buttonholes, all worked as they should.
At this point I must admit that not having read the instruction book properly it took me a while to understand the C2 fault complete with its rude beeping noise. Of course had I read the manual I would have discovered the drop down thingie a bit sooner.
I love my machine which replaced the much hated Toyota, they should stick to cars! I hope I get as many years of pleasure from her as I did from my much loved New Home.
Hi, I am a beginner , and I’ve been using the Singer 6180 for less than a year. It has been working very well so far, but i wish it had the speed control option. Except from that, I am very happy with my purchase.
Hi I just got my Singer 6180 from an exclusive Singer showroom. The store manager was helpful and also provided a good deal. Having said that, I did not get a complete demo as the other staff member wasn’t around. On getting the machine I realized he sent me a Dec 2014 product as against the Feb 15 he had promised. As far as the machine is concerned here are my views
1. The auto needle threadee is not very easy to use and is also a strain on the eyes
2. The stitch quality is nowhere close to what is displayed on the panel
3. I’m yet to check on the several functions its loaded with
4. I also have to check if the twin needle operates and operates well to give decent stitch quality.
Pricing of the product I good however the output is something I’m not completely satisfied with.
In addition to this basic accessories like darning foot and twin needle is not provided. Even the regular needles provided are 1 per size (Only 3 provided). When one pays for such a machine these accessories should be provided.
I think one of the problems is that it depends on the retailer ones buys a machine from. Not just the Brilliance, in whatever guise it comes in, but also other machines from a variety of manufacturers.
Mine came with four packs of needles, though I didn’t receive a twin needle, but then it isn’t something I am fussed about as I never used it on the New Home which I had for many years.
I also received the darning/embroidery foot, plus several others, as well as a walking foot. Puzzled there wasn’t any oil, especially as it does mention oiling parts of the machine.
I too found the auto needle threader difficult, but from what I have seen on other machines, there isn’t a whole heap of difference between them.
I found I could improve on the stitch quality by altering the tension, etc.
Thank you so much Vernelle, for the time taken to review these products. You’ve helped me decide not to buy the Singer Brilliance, but to go with an easy-to-use Brother machine. Much appreciated!
Thank you so much for reviewing this machine. Having seen that LIDL (UK) is about to offer this Singer model next week (12/10/15) at a much reduced price I decided to look into it as I was just looking for a lightweight machine for travelling with.
Having read a number of reviews on various sites including Amazon, I have decided to let this little ‘bargain’ slip by, and instead opt for my original choice of Silver Viscount 1050, which is similar but no doubt by far the superior machine.
Having owned a Silver Viscount 9500E since 2008, and done thousands of miles of both lightweight and heavy sewing I remain very impressed with my heavy yet wonderful solid machine. Operation is easy, service and after care is both wonderful and cheap. Given that I will probably always remain a fan of Silver Viscount, it makes sense for me to buy a SV 1050 for carrying to classes and further afield. I need a good machine for this, fully functional yet lighter in weight.
Looking forward to trying out compact models at Knit & Stitch Show (Harrogate) 2015!
Bought mine from lidl great price brilliant machine also bought the serger which I love even more what a bargain two machines for less than the price of one. Found all the stitches work perfectly and the stitch th reader too. I have never owned a serger and did not know how versatile they are over the moon .
I bought this machine today. But, it foot control is not working. I’m not able to fully plug-in the foot control wire to the side of the machine. It automatically loosens & comes out. Tomorrow i’ll call the support & see what could be done.
Needs to be pressed firmly in
I recently purchased a Singer Brilliance sewing Machine Model 6180 about a month ago. I ordered it online from Walmart. I have not been able to use it yet because every time I try to wind a bobbin it get beep and Error Message E2. I have tried rebooting so many times I have a headache. I turn off and try again another day but still no success. I was looking for my receipt but I may have thrown it away by accident so I may be stuck with this. I have been using Singer machines for many years and first time I have ever had a problem. I am at my wits end trying to figure out what is wrong. What can I do?
I know I am somewhat late in answering, but have you tried contacting Singer Customer Support? I know Sue Woolley here in the UK always makes the point that there is always somebody at the end of a telephone if you need help. Maybe it is a littel different where you live, which I am assuming is the USA, but it may be a good idea to give them a call.
I absolutely love my machine works like a dream and I am an experienced sewer . It isn’t top of the range but suitable for what I bought it for love it . If you have trouble with the bobbin fill make sure you have wrapped it twice around the tension before the bobbin also don’t thread through same tension for needle thread read the book and you tube it .
Hi ,
I am a beginner for sewing and I am thinking of buying a sewing machine.Pfaff Smarter 260c and Singer Brilliance are machines that I can afford within my budget (Also available in my home town). Can you please recommend which one will be suitable for a beginner like me?
Thank You!
Suga
I have had my Singer Brilliance machine for 2 years and find it very good, took me a while sorting out the stitch adjusting but soon got the hang of it Have plenty of scraps of material to try your stiches out on So easy to use
GOOD LUCK and happy stitching
Joyce
I have only used the Brilliance, so my comments would be a tad biased. However, before investing in any sewing machine I would ask myself what I want from it. During my lifetime I have been through many sewing machines, from a treadle, hand sewing machine, through to various electrical models.
Firstly, as a newbie to sewing, exactly what will you want to make with your new machine? I say this because the Singer, like many others has a vast number of stitches, in my case 80, including five automatic buttonholes. Why so many I have no idea, my previous machines only did one, which was quite sufficient for my needs. My New Home had 20 embroidery stitches, of which I used two on a reasonably regular basis.
What one really needs in a sewing machine is a variable width and length stitch, a good light, and an automatic needle threader. By all means have a few decorative stitches, but there is no need to go mad, well not unless you are really keen on embellishing everything in sight that is.
Check out the prices of other machines, ask in the shop what they actually do, and what comes with them. Once purchased, take your machine home, play around with it, making sure that your instruction book is handy as there will be ‘issues’ with every machine. These usually turn out to be very simple to fix, but it does help if the instruction book is handy.
One other thing, unless the machine comes with a hard cover, which I hate by the way, then buy a bag to keep it in. Mine cost less than £17, has two pockets that keeps my bits and bobs in, and also keeps the all important foot safe. I always dreaded what would happen if mine ever got lost, now I no longer worry.
Enjoy your new machine, whichever one you invest in.
I bought mine about 6 months ago, but it has started making too much noise when I’m sewing, though I clean and oil.
Oh no, all these negative comments. I’ve just purchased my Singer 6180 from a supplier on Ebay here in the UK. Im replacing my 25yr old Toyota 2260, so I plumped for the Singer. Now Im stressing Ive bought a pile of rubbish, it cost £167.00 (over $200.00). I will let you know how I get on with it when it arrives.
Hi can anyone help me? My singer Brilliance 6180 is a great machine but when I wanted to try out some of the decorative stitches the manual said on page 29 Catapillar Stitch in capital letters that I must use the Caterpillar foot no picture of it so no idea what it looks like. I’ve made many enquiries and no one has heard of it not even the technicians at Singer! Have I purchased a machine that I can only use certain stitches of the 80 on the panel help!Penny
I am on the 2nd of 2 singer brilliance 6180 both purchased from Lidl UK. Both were bought as a present for my daughter who was new to sewing in late 2016, so the first was unused/unboxed for some months. I took it to use as my own Frister Rossmann had broken mid project after 30+ years of use. I was so disappointed with the Brilliance as the foot pedal and reverse stitch would not work consistently so I took it back for a refund. Unfortunately I then bought the same machine as I believed it was likely just an isolated manufacturing problem. However, the replacement is no better with both the foot pedal and reverse stitch button having times when it just doesn’t work and the needle threader comes right off the shaft if any attempt is made to use it. Having been taught on my grandmother’s Singer and having two vintage Singers I am so disappointed at the quality of this machine. It’s a budget machine designed to meet the demands of new sewers in this reviving market who are not sure what to look for in a machine. It’s likely to put many off sewing altogether!
I bought a 6180 about 18 months ago, have not used it very much but got it out last week to make an outfit. Worked well for a while but then jammed and the bobbin had not been threaded correctly. C4 error. Corrected the threading and cleaned the hook as suggested and oiled the central pin as also suggested. it will not work properly again. The bobbin thread keeps tearing. I have had to get my old Fister Rossman to finish my outfit. I have been sewing all my life for more that 50 years. I have never had a problem like this. Any advice please.
I bough this 6180 yesterday.
It is basic,but fine for most users. The only thing I really miss is the up/down needle position.How do you turn corners without that function?Haven’t found the finishing/tie off stitch yet either.
Hello, all is going fine here and ofcourse every
one is sharing facts, that’s genuinely fine, keep up writing.
I hate my singer brilliance! Every time I go to sew on it, it messes up! I was sewing tonight, went to change to a zig zag stitch, and now the machine will not feed the fabric under the pressure foot! I DO NOT want it fixed, I want a full refund!!! I am an experienced sewer and have sewn on MANY machines and this is the WORST I have ever encountered!!!
I just got one about 3 weeks ago, for a gift.
Already- my needle hit a spot it wasn’t strong enough for, bent inside the bobbin compartment. Got C-4 error. Replaced broken/bent needle, re-threaded machine. Nothing. The power would go on, and when I pressed the foot pedal, the machine would whir, but the needle bar wasn’t moving… so… take the machine apart, and POW! Look! The belt was completely off!
Ok. Got that back on, and turned on machine… now- the needle bar is stuck far left. It no longer does the auto preset thing when you turn it on. If you press the needle adjustment buttons, the numbers on the display change as they should, but nothing as far as the needle goes. So, now, I can only sew a straight line on the far left.
I’m done already. I’m not rolling in cash that I can just drive an hour to pay a repairman for stupid malfunctions and errors.
Lame!
To go back to 00 straight stitch you just need to turn machine off and on again. It automatically resets. No need to scroll through wasting time.
Glad to read your review……I have just been given one of these to re home as the person who got it found it tricky to use….I can see why! I thought I would sew a garment to test out and it’s fiddly to use, however the more I sewed the trousers the less I enjoyed sewing on it….. the reverse seems to throw it off and sometimes after reverse it would not go forward or the top thread would break. I stopped sewing on it half way while doing the zip as the zip foot is not nice…..and I finished the trousers on another one of my machines. Its a pity as there is a lot to like in the machine…but i certainly could not recommend it..
What a fantastic, thorough review. I’d love to know what machines you love for a curtain maker