While the quality of Singer sewing machines is undeniable, it doesn’t mean that every model produced by this brand will suit your sewing needs and meet your requirements.
Today, I will discuss Singer 44S Classic heavy duty sewing machine. I will reveal what this machine can and can’t do to help you determine if it’s the right sewing machine for you.
The Singer brand was founded in 1851 by Isaac Merrit Singer. He was a father of 24 kids, actor, inventor and engineer which is incredible. His inventions changed the sewing machine world.
Throughout the years, Singer became a symbol of quality sewing units and it remained so to do this day. Let’s dive into my Singer 44S review and see if it’s worth the money.
Specs
| Type: | Mechanical |
| Dimensions: | 16.5 x 7.25 x 13.2 inches |
| Machine weight: | 17 pounds |
| Machine speed: | 1,100 stitches per minute |
| Built-in sewing stitches: | 23 |
| Buttonhole styles: | 1 1-step buttonhole |
| Stitch selection: | Dial |
| Bobbin: | Top drop-in bobbin |
| Adjustable stitch length and width: | Yes |
| Automatic needle threader: | Yes |
| Free arm: | Yes |
| Warranty: | 25-year limited warranty |
Table of Contents
Singer 44S Review
Singer 44S Classic is a budget-friendly sewing machine for home use. It’s the ideal choice for beginners. However, professionals will also appreciate its high-level performance.
Singer 44S is a super-versatile machine with sturdy construction. The stainless steel bedplate and metal interior frame will allow you to utilize this sewing machine for years to come.
Even the plastic components are made of durable plastic. It’s a bit small for a heavy-duty sewing unit but don’t let it fool you into thinking it’s worthless. Singer 44S is a real workhorse.
It’s durable and strong thanks to the powerful motor. The maximum speed of this sewing machine 1,100 stitches per minute. It’s capable of completing any type of sewing projects.
Versatility is the biggest advantage of 44S. You can make all types of garments and take care of patches, repairs or alterations. It can pass through denim and canvas with ease.
On the downside, it’s not suitable for embroidery and decorative stitches and projects. Overall, this unit is one of the greatest affordable sewing machines in the market at the moment.
Although it doesn’t come with many bells and whistles, it’s powerful and performs decently. It will make every user happy. Let’s take a closer look at some of the key features.
23 Built-In Stitches
This sewing machine includes 23 built-in stitches. You will get stretch, decorative and basic stitches with a fully automatic 1-step buttonhole. First, pick your stitch and stitch settings.
Then, put the button into the buttonhole foot and your sewing machine will do the rest of the job. It’s a simple and easy process. And the result is consistent and professional-looking.
Automatic Needle Threader
In my opinion, the automatic needle threader is one of the best inventions in the sewing world. This unit comes with this automatic feature. It’s handy, saves time and reduces eye strain.
Top Drop-In Bobbin
Jamming in the bobbin case can be a nightmare while running out of thread in the middle of the project can drive you insane. With the top drop-in bobbin, it’s not just easy to thread.
It’s also easy to see. The top drop-in bobbin is jam-resistant. The best part? Both the bobbin and bobbin cover are see-through so you can keep track of your thread supply at all times.
Drop Feed
Drop feed is a mandatory feature for fashion sewing and quilting. You need to detach feed dogs for free-motion sewing. Just slide the drop feed lever.
When you complete your free-motion project, slide the lever back. It’s that easy. A single complete turn of the handwheel will lift the feed dogs back.
Adjustable Stitch Width and Length
You can decide if you want a narrower or wider stitch pattern. 6mm is the maximum stitch width while the length can be adjusted. You can get creative with the look of your stitches.
You can utilize this capability to experiment with various sewing techniques. For built-in sewing stitches, just set up your dial selector and that’s it. There’s also reverse stitching available.
Presser Foot Pressure
Customizable presser foot pressure is important for many sewing projects. Usually, users need to adjust their pressure when they work with delicate and extreme materials.
Powerful Motor
In my opinion, the motor is the heart of your sewing machine. And Singer 44S has a pretty strong heart. Supposedly, it’s 60% more powerful than motors in similar sewing machines.
This workhorse can sew up to 1,100 stitches per minute. It’s a decent speed for a low-end unit. If you’re looking for a low-end, budget-friendly but fast machine, look further than 44S.
Extras
Singer 44S has 3 needle positions for various sewing methods. There’s also LED light that will brighten up your working space. It doesn’t make heat, meaning, it will stay cool to the touch.
You can utilize a free arm for sleeves, cuffs, baby clothes and other smaller or narrow projects. However, to do so, you need to get rid of the storage compartment to get to the free arm.
Accessories
I don’t know about you but I always get excited when I hear that a product that I’ve bought comes with a bunch of accessories. Singer 44S, for example, includes 4 presser feet.
You will get a button sewing foot, an all-purpose foot, a buttonhole foot, a zipper foot. You will also get a pack of needles, bobbins, auxiliary spool pin, spool pin felt, and spool caps.
There’s also a seam ripper and screwdriver included. The best part? Singer 44S Classic sewing machine is covered by a 25-year limited warranty. There’s also free phone support.
Performance
If you’re looking for a mechanical sewing machine, look no further than Singer 44S. However, if you love fancy push-button operations, this model isn’t the right choice for you.
When it comes to stitching results and performance 44S dominates the sewing market. It’s packed with a 60% more powerful motor than similar sewing machines. It’s fast and accurate.
You will get impressive stitches. And it’s stable and durable thanks to the metal construction which adds stability to the sewing machine. On top of all, it’s easy to install and use.
Singer 44S Pros and Cons
You can’t just ignore the fact that this sewing machine is identical to the Singer 4423 heavy-duty sewing unit, except for the colour. 44S comes in white, while 4423 has a grey colour.
44S is one of the best-looking sewing units for beginners. However, the look isn’t that important when it comes to sewing. The features and performance are far more important.
442 is a mechanical heavy duty sewing machine with 23 built-in stitches including 4 stretch, 6 basic, and 12 decorative stitches and a 1-step buttonhole. The unit is loaded with automatic features.
One of those features is the automatic needle threader. It’s a great feature for people with bad eyesight and short temper. It saves you both time and effort. Also, it prevents eye strain.
Singer 44S also includes a top drop-in bobbin with see-through cover to keep track of your thread supply and never run out of thread again. There’s also adjustable presser foot pressure.
It’s a real blessing! The pressure is pre-adjusted. However, you can customize it when working on layers of fabric. Additionally, there’s an extra high presser foot lifter for extra clearance.
The sturdy constructions ensure high-quality stitches. Thanks to the stainless steel bedplate, the fabric easily slides across. This sewing machine has a powerful motor for heavy-duty sewing.
It’s capable of making 1,100 stitches per minute which is pretty good for a low-end sewing machine. The stitches are picked by turning the dial. There’s also another dual for stitch adjustments.
With this dial, you can play with the stitch length. The tension and stitch width adjustments dials can be found on the top of this versatile sewing machine. 6mm is the maximum stitch width.
In my opinion, the reverse level could have been bigger. There’s also a needle position adjustment dial is located at the top of the sewing machine. Additionally, you have 3 needle positions.
Sewing collars, cuffs, sleeves and other smaller items are easy thanks to the free arm. You can do free-motion quilting by utilizing the drop feed option. There’s also twin needle capability.
This capability adds a lot to the creativity. You can apply a decorative finish to your projects with ease. Bobbin winding is safer thanks to the needle bar that detaches while winding the bobbin.
Overflowing the bobbin isn’t a problem as the bobbin stops once completed automatically. What I love most about this sewing machine is the LED light. It illuminates the working space perfectly.
Let’s summarize the key pros and cons of the Singer 44S. In my opinion, the positive sides outweigh the negative sides of this sewing machine.
Pros
- Reasonably-priced
- 60% more powerful motor
- Suitable for heavy-duty sewing
- 1,100 stitches per minute
- High-quality stitches
- Sturdy construction
Cons
- Not 100% heavy duty
- Faster speed means less precision
- Limited needle adjustments
- Low-end sewing machine
- Missing instructions
How to Use a Singer 44S Sewing Machine?
Singer 44S heavy duty sewing machine stands behind its name. This sewing machine is pretty sturdy and stable. It’s loaded with a wide selection of decorative and utility stitches.
The unit works admirably on multiple layers of thick fabrics. As many as 6 layers of denim is a breeze for this machine. It’s a beginner-friendly machine with convenient features on board.
There’s an automatic needle threader which makes things easier, especially for beginners and users with poor vision like me. It’s also packed with a 1-step buttonhole and drop-in bobbin.
Singer 44S seems to have a great feed mechanism. You won’t face issues like bobbin jamming or skipped stitches with this sewing machine. The tension seems to be ideal most of the time.
It’s durable and long-lasting. Therefore, you will have this baby for a very long time. It’s covered by a 25-year limited warranty. The bobbin cover is see-through so you can monitor thread supply.
As you can notice, Singer 44S is easy to use. The speed is adjustable and easy to customize according to your sewing needs. However, it lacks a speed control button but you can adjust the pressure.
You can speed up or slow down sewing easily. Singer 44S is perfect for beginners and intermediate users but professionals might find it limiting. It’s not a 100% heavy-duty sewing machine.
How to Thread a Singer 44S Sewing Machine?
Threading Singer 44S is also easy! This is thanks to the automatic needle threader. Now, you can thread the eye of the needle easily. This feature saves you time and eliminates eyestrain.
How to Oil Singer 44S?
It’s mostly a sealed sewing machine. However, it’s recommended to clean and oil your Singer 44S now and then. Add a few drops of sewing machine oil around the bobbin holder.
Then, using a scrap piece of material to sew before continuing with your work. That is what I have done to mine. Singer 44S is one of the best Singer sewing units. I’m highly-pleased.
What Bobbin Does a Singer 44S Use?
Singer 44S Classic has a drop-in bobbin and utilizes class 15 bobbins. It’s packed with all you need to get started except the thread. You can purchase additional bobbins at Amazon.
What Size Bobbin for Singer 44S?
44S utilizes bobbin class 15 transparent bobbins. You can utilize Inspira and Singer branded bobbins. It’s recommended to use Singer branded bobbins to prevent issues and injuries.
Singer 44S Accessories
The Singer 44S Classic heavy duty sewing machine includes a lot of accessories for heavy-duty sewing. You will get 4 presser feet, quilting guide, a pack of needles, bobbins, cover, etc.
Singer 44S Instruction Manual
The instruction manual is well-written and easy to follow. This addition is great for beginners and users who need extra advice on how to use or thread their Singer 44S sewing machine.
Singer 44S for Leather
I wouldn’t recommend this sewing machine for leather or vinyl. It’s a light heavy-duty machine for home use. Also, when sewing leather, utilize a “leather needle” instead of a fabric needle.
Singer 44S vs 4423: Which One is Better?
There’s no doubt that Singer 442 and 4423 are identical. They’re both popular sewing machines. Sewers often question which one is the better pick. Let’s find out by comparing their features.
One of the key differences lies in the design. They have a different colour. The speed and measurement markings are different. It’s worth mentioning that 4423 is more popular.
However, that doesn’t mean that 44S is less valuable. They’re both impressive mechanical units that can easily handle both basic and heavy-duty projects although they’re not 100% heavy-duty.
They both include 23 built-in stitches. This number is great for some sewers but might be overwhelming for beginners and casual sewers. Regardless, it’s better to have a wide selection available.
Overall, with both 44S and 4423, selecting the stitch and then utilizing it, is straightforward. They include the essential and common stitches such as stretch stitch, buttonhole and decorative stitch.
When it comes to speed, they’re both equally powerful with a max speed of 1,100 stitches per minute. If you’re looking for a faster sewing machine, consider other sewing machines on the market.
It’s also important to mention that both sewing machines can handle all from light to heavy materials, so you can work on denim as well as on multiple layers of fabric with both the sewing machines.
The stitches for both machines pass through the fabrics smoothly. At the same time, they don’t wear out as other models do. Additionally, both the units have a bedplate for consistent fabric feeding.
Singer 44S and 4423 are both made of stainless steel. Therefore, they last longer as well but what’s most important is that they’re both user-friendly. Meaning, they’re perfect for beginners.
They have automatic needle threaders which make things a lot easier for everyone despite their sewing knowledge. Similarly, they’re both loaded with a top drop-in bobbin with a transparent cover.
This makes them both easier to use. And easier to keep track of your thread supply. Both models deliver smooth stitching. Adjusting the speed is easy but they both lack a speed control button.
However, you can customize the foot control pressure. Meaning, you can speed up or slow down sewing easily. They’re both perfect for home use but they’re not suitable for professional use.
They’re excellent home sewing models. And they can be utilized for professional uses. However, nothing too complex. If you’re looking for a 100% heavy-duty unit, these models aren’t for you.
They can’t handle heavy leather and canvas. Meanwhile, they’re both equally versatile. You can use the sewing machines for baby diapers as well as heavy jeans. You can easily hem pants as well.
When comparing both units, it’s clear that both deliver consistent and powerful performance. Both have free arms and incredible bobbin winders. They’re long-lasting, stable, and sturdy models.
With both models, you have to adjust your stitches utilizing the dials. They enable complete control over your sewing machine. Additionally, they both backstitch even if you use multiple layers.
While both the models are competent, they still miss features. For example, there’s no start/stop button and speed controller. There’s also no programmable needle and monogramming font.
It’s clear as day that the main differences hide in the measurement markings and the speed. 44S is grey while 44S is white. This is another difference but nothing too important.
Which model you choose depends on your personal preferences. They’re both very similar. It’s up to you to decide which one responds to your needs.
Singer 44S Sewing Machine for Sale
Singer 44S is a popular low-end machine. It’s available in both in-person and online stores. You can buy Singer 44S at Amazon. However, you can also find it at Singer’s official website.
Wrap Up
Singer 44S Classic heavy duty sewing machine is a budget-friendly model made with intermediate users and beginners in mind. It’s nothing less impressive than other Singer machines.
Although it’s not as fancy as some other models and has some limitations for experienced users, it’s still worth considering, especially when you’re looking for something good and cheap.
Likely, you will look for an upgrade as your skills improve and your ambitions grow. However, until that happens, Singer 44S can teach you how to swim in the incredible ocean of sewing.
I don’t know about you but I always get excited when I hear that a product that I’ve bought comes with a bunch of accessories. Singer 44S, for example, includes 4 presser feet.
You will get a button sewing foot, an all-purpose foot, a buttonhole foot, a zipper foot. You will also get a pack of needles, bobbins, auxiliary spool pin, spool pin felt, and spool caps.
There’s also a seam ripper and screwdriver included. The best part? Singer 44S Classic sewing machine is covered by a 25-year limited warranty. There’s also free phone support.
Versatility is the biggest advantage of 44S. You can make all types of garments and take care of patches, repairs or alterations. It can pass through denim and canvas with ease.
On the downside, it’s not suitable for embroidery and decorative stitches and projects. Overall, this unit is one of the greatest affordable sewing machines in the market at the moment.
Although it doesn’t come with many bells and whistles, it’s powerful and performs decently. It will make every user happy.
Hopefully, this Singer 44S review can help you determine if it’s worth your time. If you have experience with this machine, don’t forget to share your thoughts in the comments below!