The Singer 1304 entry-level sewing machine is one of the first units that I would warmly recommend to any beginner. It’s a well-made, portable and affordable sewing machine.
If you buy 1304, you will get a lot of manual convenient features which is a plus when learning the basics of sewing units. The stitch options are limited but there’s a 4-step buttonhole.
Newbies will encounter a learning curve when fixing the vertical bobbin into place, adjusting the thread tension and controlling the maximum speed of 400 stitches per minute.
However, 1034 provides clean and secure patterns. There’s also a threading diagram on the front of the machine. Let’s dive into my Singer 1304 review and learn more about this unit.
Machine Specifications
| Dimensions: | 13 x 7 x 11.5 inches |
| Machine weight: | 9.8 pounds |
| Built-in stitches: | 6 |
| Machine speed: | 350-400 stitches per minute |
| Bobbin type: | Class 15 |
| Buttonhole style: | 4-step automatic |
| Power source: | Electric |
| Lighting: | LED |
| Presser foot lifter: | Yes |
| Warranty: | 25-year limited warranty |
Table of Contents
Singer 1304 Review
Singer 1304 has amazing features which will respond to your basic sewing needs. The variety of features is impressive at this price range. Let’s take a closer look at the features.
6 Built-In Sewing Stitches
This sewing machine includes 6 built-in sewing stitches. It’s not too much but it’s still a decent number at this price range.
You will receive a satin, straight, zigzag, scallop, blind hem, and 1 4-step buttonhole. The straight stitch is intended for regular basic stitches.
However, for sewing simple applique, you can utilize zigzag stitching. The blind hem stitch will be useful in fixing hems. Creating buttonholes is also easy.
Easy and Quick Threading
Threading the unit is super easy! If you’re a beginner and have no experience in threading a sewing unit, you can always rely on the threading diagram printed on the unit.
Heavy-Duty Metal Frame
The internal structure of this sewing unit is created of a heavy-duty metal frame. This metal frame keeps the unit in perfect alignment which helps in stitching continuously.
The sturdy construction also provides durability and stability. Singer 1304 will stay by your side for many years to come. It’s a long-lasting, reliable and sturdy sewing machine.
Dual Spool Pins
1304 has dual spool pins which makes stitching via a twin needle much easier and faster. This makes the pattern in ideal parallel lines. It’s perfect for hemming and making decorative designs on your garments.
3 Presser Feet
Singer 1304 comes with 3 presser feet including a zipper foot, a buttonhole foot, and an all-purpose foot which is being utilized for most sewing projects.
The buttonhole foot is for applying buttonholes, slots for applying ribbon, and other interesting designs. The zipper foot is utilized for applying zippers, cording, piping, etc.
Stitch Selection Dial
There’s also a stitch selection dial located on the front of your sewing machine. Different stitch selection is printed on the selection dial.
It’s super accurate and simple to utilize. You can select any of the provided stitches by simply turning the stitch selection dial in a preferred direction.
Preset Stitch Width and Length
You don’t need to adjust the stitch width and length while sewing. They’re already pre-set. Meaning, you can start your work at any time without thinking about the stitch width and length.
Automatic Features
Although Singer 1304 is beginner-friendly, it’s still a modern unit with automatic features. These options save time and help beginners avoid struggle.
1304 has an automatic bobbin winding system which ensures users can avoid struggling with unfamiliar tasks such as bobbin winding. It also has an automatic 4-step buttonhole.
And an automatic tension feature. The automatic features also save time for advanced sewers by taking these processes out of their hands. They’re convenient and easy to learn.
However, most of them have easy to follow instructions either printed right onto the unit or explained in the manual. For instance, there’s a numbered diagram on the sewing unit.
Warranty
Just like any Singer sewing machine, this one is also covered by a 25-year limited warranty. You will get a 1 year of repairing manufacturing defects from the date of purchase for free.
The warranty covers replacement parts for your machine’s head for free. However, you will be charged for labour. The electric parts of the unit will be replaced for free for 5 years.
This includes wiring, light, motor, speed control and switches but you will be charged for labour. Within a year of the date of purchase, the company will replace defective belts and bulbs.
And other attachments free of charge, as well as delivering any required adjustments. The warranty isn’t transferable between owners and can be used by the original owner only.
Extra Features
You will also get a few extras such as dual spool pins, LED light, extra-high presser foot lifter, additional needles and bobbins, a screwdriver, and a darning plate for free-motion sewing.
You will also get a combination lint brush and seam ripper, instruction manual and a quick start guide, 3 presser feet (zipper foot, buttonhole foot, and an all-purpose foot) etc.
Singer 1304 Pros and Cons
The Singer 1304 sewing unit comes with all the necessary features for beginners and seasonal hobbyists. It’s not rich in automatic features. However, it’s built to last for years.
It’s a lightweight sewing machine with a sturdy construction which offers stability. It’s an ideal machine for people who’re just getting started. Most importantly, it’s reasonably-priced.
However, it’s not perfect! Just like any other product on the market, 1304 has its flaws. Let’s summarize the key pros and cons of this well-known, entry-level sewing machine.
Pros:
- Compact, lightweight and portable, Singer 1304 weighs less than 10 pounds.
- This sewing machine is easy to move around. It’s portable thanks to the foldable handle. If you want to take your sewing machine to classes or transport from one spot to another, it’s possible.
- 1304 comes with a LED, cool to the touch, light. This light delivers bright illumination that lights up your workspace and allows you to view your work better. It’s one of my favourite functions.
- The reverse lever allows you to stitch in reverse and allows you to secure the seams at the start and end to keep them from unravelling.
- Singer 1304 is a powerful sewing machine. According to users, it can handle thicker materials as well. Therefore, it’s a versatile sewing machine for everyday use.
- This unit delivers quiet operation thanks to the smooth and powerful motor. It doesn’t release a loud noise even when operating at high speeds.
Cons:
- The Singer 1304 sewing machine has only 6 built-in stitches.
- The thread jams pretty often, especially while utilizing or winding the bobbin. This is one of the biggest disadvantages. You need to stop, disassemble your unit, and reassemble it while sewing.
- 1304 has a speed dial which allows you to control the speed. But the only way by which you can manipulate the machine’s needle is by utilizing the foot pedal.
How to Set Up Singer 1304?
The perfect sewing machine for newbies is the one that’s NOT too complicated to set up or utilize either. Pay attention to the pointers when setting up the bobbin thread.
If you’re confused or overwhelmed by the directions, there’s a lot of tutorials and step-by-step guides to assist you. You can also rely on your well-written, easy to follow manual.
After reading it, I was able to utilize all the features on this sewing machine. It’s ready to use right out of the box. Just plug it in and follow the threading diagrams imprinted.
Turn the knob for the preferred stitch and you’re good to go! With a price tag below $100 and a 25-year limited warranty, this is a great bargain.
How to Use Singer 1304 Sewing Machine?
Singer 1304 is fairly easy to use. All you need to do is follow a few simple steps to start with sewing. The first step is threading the machine. This process includes a few steps:
Winding Your Bobbin
Put your spool pin felt and thread onto the spool pin. Pass thread via the threading guideline. Wind the thread clockwise around bobbin winder tension discs. Put the thread bobbin on a spindle.
Press the bobbin spindle to the right. Then, press on the foot pedal. Hold the thread end. After a couple of turns, release the foot pedal.
Release the thread. Cut it close from the spool. Press the foot pedal again. When the spool will be full, it will spin slowly. Then, release the pedal and cut the thread. Push the bobbin spindle to the left. Remove.
Inserting Your Bobbin
First, take off the extension table to insert the bobbin. Then, remove the bobbin case. Insert the bobbin so that the thread moves in a clockwise direction.
Pull the thread until it clicks into the place. Put the bobbin case into the shuttle, so that the bobbin case pointer is lined up at 12 o’clock. Always turn off your machine while importing and removing the bobbin.
Threading the Upper Thread
This is an important part. If you don’t do it right, then different problems can occur.
First, lift the needle to its highest point. Begin turning the hand-wheel counterclockwise. Turn the wheel until the needle starts to descend. After, lift the presser foot to release the tension discs.
Place the spool pin felt and thread onto the spool pin.
Draw thread from spool through the thread guide to the upper thread guide. Thread the tension module by leading the thread down the right channel and up the left channel.
Pass thread from right to left through the slotted eye of the take-up lever. Then, downwards again. Pass thread behind the slim wire needle clamp guide. Then, down to the needle.
The final step is to pull around 6-8 inches of thread to the rear near the needle eye.
Raising the Bobbin Thread
This is super easy! Just keep the upper thread with the left hand. Turn the hand-wheel in your direction, raising and lowering the needle.
Pull-on the upper thread to take the bobbin thread up via the needle plate opening. Both threads shall stay under the presser foot.
Thread Tension
There’s an upper thread tension and a lower thread tension.
The basic thread tension setting of the upper thread tension is 4. If you want to decrease or increase it, simply turn the dial next to the number down or up respectively.
Remove the bobbin case and bobbin to examine the lower thread tension. Keep it by suspending it by a thread. Jerk it a few times. If the tension is right, the thread will unwind.
If the tension is too tight, it won’t unwind at all. If it’s too loose, it will drop excessively. To customize the tension, simply turn the tiny screw on the side of the bobbin case.
How to Thread Singer 1304 Sewing Machine?
Singer 1304 includes clear, easy to use threading diagrams printed right on the unit’s exterior. They’re a great way for beginners to learn how to thread their sewing machine.
The thread diagrams allow beginners to get their first sewing project started without much struggle and frustration. Some beginners have reported that they’re not very helpful.
However, once you learn how to do it, it seems straightforward. Threading Singer 1304 sewing machine is a simple process. You can also watch online videos on how to do it.
What Bobbin for Singer 1304?
Utilizing the proper tools for a project is highly-important. 1304 utilizes only transparent class 15 bobbin. They come as standard with the Singer 1304 sewing machine.
Always utilize the bobbins included with the unit. Utilizing the improper bobbin can cause damage to the bobbin case system. This goes for all brands of sewing machines.
Who is Singer 1304 Made for?
The Singer 1304 sewing machine is made with beginners and children in mind. It’s reasonably priced and a great starter machine. It’s perfect for kids and beginners without experience.
However, it’s not suitable for intermediate or experienced users looking to upgrade their current sewing machine. There’s limited functionality. It’s not suitable for heavy-duty projects.
Singer 1304 Accessories
When unboxing the Singer 1304, I was surprised by the number of free accessories I received. I’m pretty sure that you will be too! It includes add-ons for beginners and professionals.
They’re kept in the accessory storage tray. You will get a carrying handle, a foot control, LED light, pack of needles, class 15 bobbins, lint brush, and a needle plate screwdriver.
You will also get spool pin felts, an automatic 4-step buttonhole, dual spool pins, seam ripper, 3 presser feet, extra-high presser lifter, foot control, power line cord, and darning plate.
Singer 1304 User Manual
The Singer 1304 sewing machine comes with a trilingual user manual (English, Spanish, and French). You will also get a quick start guide with basic steps for getting started.
For more information on features and usage, please visit Singer’s official website and download the user manual for free. It’s well-written and provides great assistance.
Where to Buy Singer 1304?
The Singer 1304 is a popular starter sewing machine. Therefore, you can easily find the free arm sewing machine online or in-store including Kmart, Sears and Joann.
Of course, it’s also available at Amazon for less than $250. Sewing Machines Plus also sells this machine. They often offer good deals on this unit and other Singer units.
Singer 1304 Price
If you’re looking for a simple, basic, easy to use and reasonably-priced mechanical sewing machine, look no further than Singer 1304 Start. You can buy it for less than $100.
FAQ
Conclusion
Out of the box, this sewing machine is a beautiful, modern-looking model. It has a simple but appealing design. And it’s not intimidating to beginners which is very important.
It’s a user-friendly sewing machine made with newbies in mind. Underneath the casing is a sturdy metal frame which delivers skip-free stitching by keeping all the parts perfectly aligned.
Although it’s made for maximum durability, Singer 1304 is still portable. It weighs only 10 pounds. If you want to take your sewing machine to classes or travel with it, you can.
The Singer 1304 Start comes with 6 built-in stitch functions. They’re printed on the selection knob. Also, they’re easy to notice, as well as the threading diagrams imprinted on the surface.
You can choose from satin, blind hem, scallop, straight, 4-step buttonhole or zigzag stitch. Singer 1304 is perfect for beginners because of the maximum speed (400 stitches per minute).
Buyers will get 3 presser feet and dual spool pins which offer the opportunity of customizing designs by applying parallel lines of stitches. It’s even possible to utilize various colour combinations.
There’s also a detachable free arm which is perfect for reaching hard to reach places on clothing such as pants hems, cuffs, collars, etc. You can also enjoy the various automatic features.
This model has an automatic bobbin winding system, automatic tensioning, automatic 4-step buttonhole feature, etc. They will save you time and frustration, regardless of your skill level.
For most of the functions, there’s a set of instructions imprinted on the unit itself. If you’re interested in buying this sewing machine, be aware of the limited speed control.
It doesn’t feature speed dial. The needle is manipulated by the foot pedal. This isn’t a deal-breaker for me. I plan on buying this model for my 13-year old daughter.
If it’s not a deal-breaker for you as well, purchase the 1304 today. Hopefully, my Singer 1304 review can help you determine if it’s the right sewing machine for you.
Have you ever used this Singer machine? Or know someone who has? If so, share your experiences and thoughts in the comments below. Let’s hear your opinion!