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History of Singer Sewing Machines: Evolution of a Dynasty
Are you curious about the history of the Singer sewing machines? Read on! If you are deciding between Singer sewing machines, read our detailed post on the Best Singer Sewing Machines here
History of Singer Sewing Machines – Early days
According to Wikipedia and the official Singer website, Singer Corporation is an American manufacturer of consumer sewing machines, first established as I. M. Singer & Co. in 1851 by Isaac M. Singer and New York lawyer Edward C. Clark. Best known for its sewing machines, it was renamed the Singer Manufacturing Company in 1865, then the Singer Company in 1963. It is based in La Vergne, Tennessee, near Nashville. Its first large factory for mass production was built in 1863 in Elizabeth, New Jersey.
Not long after Isaac Singer and his partner, Edward Clark, started the Singer Sewing Machine Company in 1851, they were outselling every other sewing machine manufacturer in the world. The duo had set out to produce a line of sewing machines that were not only affordable, but durable; and that is exactly what they did. Singer sewing machines that were made more than 100 years ago are still being used in countless homes around the world.
Over time, however, the changes and modifications to the popular Singer machines of days gone by have affected their outstanding record for durability. While Singer sewing machines are still quite affordable, there is little likelihood that the Singers coming of the assembly line today will be around in 2099. While the dawning of electronics, computer chips and the like have made the likelihood of any sewing machine being around that long, Singer sewing machines appear to be particularly vulnerable when it comes to standing the test of time.
History of Singer sewing machines – Growing Pains
Through the 1960s and 70s, Singer sewing machines were the most popular, most widely requested sewing machines on the market. In the 1980s, however, Singer switched from all metal components to a new lightweight material called Duratec.
This reviewer purchased one of those new Singers and was disappointed with the machine’s performance almost from the very first day. In defense of the Duratec by Singer, the machine was lightweight, easy to transport, and easy to operate. It had a drop-in bobbin and approximately a dozen decorative stitches, which were accessible with the mere twist of a knob. However, the quality that Singer was known for simply wasn’t there. In addition, the machine, Duratec proved to be completely incapable of standing up to long hours of intense sewing — even with plain cotton fabric. After about five or six years, it got so bad, the pressure between the presser foot and feed dogs was almost nonexistent when I was working with very lightweight fabrics.
When sewing at very high speeds, the fly wheel literally flew off and had to be snapped back into place. I finally had enough and sold the disappointing machine at a yard sale.
History of Singer sewing machines Back on Course
The folks at Singer obviously learned from their mistake. In the years since that disaster, the manufacturer redeemed itself many times over. The Singer 1725 remains one of the best machines for teaching anyone who can sit down and reach the foot pedal the art of sewing. Teaching someone how to use this particular machine is just as enjoyable as using it.
The newer mechanical and electronic Singer sewing machines are far more reliable. Even the new latest incarnation of the extremely popular Singer Featherweight seems to be one of Home Shopping Network’s fastest movers. But the newer models will never be as dependable as the original Featherweight 221. I reviewed one of those dynamos a little while back. It was handed down from the owner’s grandmother who had, herself, inherited the machine from her best friend. Even the non-electric Singer 66 treadle sewing machine continues to score high marks for stitch quality, endurance and durability.
Given the fantastic history of Singer sewing machines, it is indeed unfortunate that newer models are not going to be able to earn the same accolades and respect as their predecessors. It is not our intention to dissuade anyone from looking at and purchasing any of the machines produced by Singer in the 21st Century.
Looking at the Big Picture
The Singer sewing machines of today are very good, affordable machines that fit nearly every budget and sewing need. I do, however, have a concern about the Singer’s ability to withstand prolonged use without showing signs of fatigue. When we take that one factor into consideration, it is almost inevitable that today’s Singer sewing machines are no match for more expensive sewing machines like Pfaff, Baby Lock, or Bernina. All of the basic sewing machines offered by these and many other brands cost about twice as much as a basic Singer sewing machine.
Let’s face it. Every sewing machine, whether mechanical, electronic, or computerized, has the same basic components and parts. Every sewing machine works beautifully when it is brand new. To be sure, each brand has its own special style and appeal. Each sewing machine brand also has its fair share of loyal customers who will buy one particular brand and that brand only. When comparing brand-new basic sewing machines, it is obvious that the features, stitch quality, and speed are all pretty much identical.
With the possible exception of the number of decorative stitch options, the only real differences between the different brands are very minor. For instance, the presser foot lever on Baby Lock machines is located to the right of the needle housing when just about every other sewing manufacturer places it behind the needle.
Pfaffs and Berninas have decorative skins which can be personalized by their owners. None of these superfluous features affects the operation of the actual sewing machine.
Some popular Singer Machines
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.
The Singer Heavy-Duty 4452 Sewing Machine is a powerhouse for those seeking professional results swiftly. With a remarkable sewing speed of 1100 stitches per minute, it outpaces standard machines by 30%, making projects a breeze. Its stainless steel bed plate ensures smooth fabric flow, while the robust metal frame guarantees skip-free sewing even through heavy-weight fabrics. Boasting 32 built-in stitches and automatic needle threading, this machine caters to a variety of sewing needs, from crafts to home decor. Compact in size, it's a best-selling workhorse with top-notch features for both beginners and seasoned sewists. Perfect for leather projects and beyond.
The Singer Stylist 7258 combines functionality with convenience. Ideal for enthusiasts ranging from beginners to intermediates, this computerized sewing marvel boasts 100 built-in stitches, making it a versatile companion for various projects. The heavy-duty metal frame ensures durability, while features like push-button stitch selection, LCD screen, and programmable options simplify tasks. With an array of accessories and user-friendly design, the 7258 addresses the needs of creative minds, providing an efficient solution for fashion, quilting, and home sewing endeavors.
Read our detailed comparison of the Singer Heavy Duty machines here
The new Singers are lighter in weight and lighter to the touch than most other sewing machines. On the surface, they appear to be identical to their counterparts in every way that counts.
Our concern, however, is how the new Singer sewing machines will perform after long hours of intense operation — and how they will perform after serving for a number of years in a very busy sewing room. I concede that the days of passing a sewing machine from generation to generation are long gone. However, I maintain the belief that when you purchase a sewing machine, you should not be faced with replacing it in ten to twenty years or less, unless you just want to upgrade to a newer model.
Only time will tell if a Singer that leaves the factory today will still be in use twenty years from now. In fact, the same holds true for any other sewing machine or serger that is made today. I believe that Singer is an excellent brand and continue to highly recommend the entire line of Singer sewing machines, embroidery machines, and sergers for use by home sewers at all skill levels.
I do, however, believe that the Singer line is best for people whose sewing needs are not very demanding. On the other hand, however, if you are in the market for a sewing, embroidery, quilting, or serging workhorse, capable of taking on a great deal of work in your very busy sewing room, take your time and shop around a little bit.
You may want to consider investing a little more in a pricier machine that offers the same features to be certain that you will not be looking for another sewing machine in a few short years.
Popular Singer posts on Sewing Insight
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 am a vintage Singer collector, also a self taught Taylor.Recently my Singer Professional SX,s timing gear gear broke and is now unobtainable. Since then I bought a Singer Quantum Stylist 9960.
Do you have any comment on this machine? Right now I am enjoying working with it, it sews like a dream.