The Singer Sew Mate 5400 sewing machine promises a little but provides beyond expectations. This unit is fully equipped with features that will respond to your needs.
For a sewing unit targeting newbies and beginners, it has all the necessary features that make practising sewing more fun and exciting. The Singer Sew Mate 5400 is easy to use.
There’s nothing as annoying and discouraging as not knowing how to use the crucial tool of your adored craft. That’s why 5400 is preferred by absolute beginners and hobbyists.
It gives them all the space to practice without stress. As lightweight and portable as it appears, it’s made from the best of materials. It’s suitable for everyday transportation.
Today, I will review this sewing machine in detail. Make sure to read my well-researched and objective Singer Sew Mate 5400 reviews before you make a final decision.
Technical Specifications
| Type: | Electronic |
| Colour: | White with green details |
| Main material: | Plastic |
| Built-in stitches: | 60 |
| Dimensions: | 16.5 x 7.75 x 13 inches |
| Machine weight: | 13 pounds |
| Machine speed: | 750 stitches per minute |
| Adjustable stitch size: | Yes |
| Needle threading system: | Automatic |
| Variable needle position: | Yes |
| Reverse stitching: | Yes |
| Adjustable thread tension: | Yes |
| Free arm: | Yes |
| LCD screen: | Yes |
| Bobbin loading type: | Top drop-in bobbin |
| Warranty: | 25-year limited warranty |
Table of Contents
Singer Sew Mate 5400 Reviews
The Singer brand is one of the most reliable and trustworthy sewing machine suppliers on the market. This particular Singer model is made with beginners and hobbyists in mind.
It packs a lot of useful features to carry the stitching process smoothly and provide flawless results. It’s a sewing machine for crafts, fashion sewing, quilting, etc. It’s well-made.
5400 is one of the best sewing machines for beginners. However, advanced sewers can enjoy this model as well. They will appreciate the automatic features such as the needle threader.
It’s one of my favourite features because it eliminates eye strain and saves time. The producer added all types of foot lifter for various cloth stitching variations. This unit boosts creativity.
It’s loaded with 60 built-in sewing patterns (8 basic patterns, 40 decorative patterns, 8 stretch patterns, etc.) The heavy-duty metal framework adds to the stability of the sewing machine.
If you’re looking for a decent entry-level sewing machine that’s compact and portable but durable at the same time, look no further than the popular Singer Sew Mate 5400 sewing machine.
It’s affordable, feature-rich and produced in Vietnam. What more could you possibly look for in a sewing machine? Let’s summarize the features that make this Singer model special.
60 Built-In Stitches
As I already mentioned, 5400 comes with 60 built-in stitch patterns. It packs a great selection of stitches for different purposes such as crafts, fashion sewing, home decor, etc.
Automatic Tension
I love automatic features such as automatic needle threader and automatic tension. This feature helps in balancing the patterns despite the type of fabric.
Automatic Stitch Width and Length
This model has an adjustable stitch size. The automatic width and length stitch is practical in customizing the width and length of the fabric accordingly.
1-Step Automatic Buttonhole
With this sewing machine, you can make buttonholes by just touching the button included. Additionally, a 1-step buttonhole is a lot easier to make than a 4-step buttonhole.
Automatic Needle Threader
I have poor eyesight. Therefore, I hate manual threading. Luckily, this machine offers automatic needle threading. It’s a great feature that prevents eye strain and saves time.
Mechanized Foot Lifter
The mechanized foot lifter enables you to stitch despite the type of fabric. This feature makes the Singer 5400 suitable for completing both basic and heavy-duty sewing projects.
LED Lighting
I’m a big fan of good lighting and I would never recommend a machine without good lighting. The Singer 5400 has an LED bulb that helps in stitching at the dim light environment.
Construction
The fully metal frame body adds to the durability and stability of the unit. If you’re searching for a sturdy and long-lasting sewing machine, 5400 makes a perfect choice for you.
Top Drop-In Bobbin
This machine has a top drop-in bobbin which is a lot easier to use, especially for beginners. The bobbin located in the unit can be easily taken off and let the thread wound correctly.
Free Arm
I love this feature! The free arm incorporated is super helpful in stitching sleeves, collars, cuffs, etc. This feature makes a perfect addition for reaching those hard-to-reach places.
Automatic Reverse
This sewing machine provides automatic reverse stitching. You can stitch in reverse without wasting any time. It’s a great feature because it prevents your stitching from coming undone.
Warranty
The Singer company stands behind its products. It provides a 25-year limited warranty with almost every sewing machine. The Singer Sew Mate 5400 is covered by a 25-year limited warranty.
Singer Sew Mate 5400 Pros and Cons
The Singer Sew Mate 5400 sewing machine is a budget-friendly computerized sewing machine. If you’re looking for a decent beginner-friendly but feature-rich unit, look no further than 5400.
5400 is considered a great choice by many Singer Sew Mate 5400 reviews. It’s often preferred by sewers without sewing experience and hobbyists. However, experts can enjoy this unit as well.
It’s loaded with advanced features. However, it’s still easy to set up and use. You will get a good number of built-in stitches (60 built-in sewing stitches), accessories and standard presser feet.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the good and bad sides of this model. I will summarize the main pros and cons of 5400 to help you determine if it’s the right sewing machine for you or not.
Pros
- Although it’s not the simplest sewing machine on the market, it’s still suitable for beginners. It’s user-friendly and many Singer Sew Mate 5400 reviews praise its manuals and intuitiveness that make things easier for new sewers. The manual is well-written and easy to follow. 5400 provides both basic and advanced features. Therefore, you won’t need to make an upgrade for a while.
- When comparing this model with other sewing units in its price range, this sewing unit provides more when it comes to inbuilt patterns. You will get 4 buttonhole styles and 60 inbuilt stitches.
- As I already mentioned, 5400 includes 60 built-in stitch patterns. This is more than enough for your basic projects, alterations and repairs. The selection of stitches enables you to be creative.
- The Singer Sew Mate 5400 is affordable. However, don’t let this fool you into thinking it’s a low-quality machine. On the contrary, it’s incredibly automated and features a heavy metal frame.
Cons
- The key downside of this sewing machine is that it’s not suitable for super heavy fabrics such as denim. It can’t handle denim that well. However, that’s a problem with every other model in this price range. And even with some costlier sewing machines.
Is it Worth Buying?
The Singer Sew Mate 5400 is a decent sewing machine. It’s not perfect. No sewing machine is perfect. It has its pros and cons. The advantages include features and price tag.
However, tension adjustment and threading can be annoying at times. Overall, it’s a great sewing unit. It provides great value for money. 5400 includes 60 built-in sewing stitches.
You can put all those decorative stitch patterns to work for creative purposes. If you can get the tension adjustment and threading part correct, this is a good sewing machine.
Singer Sew Mate 5400 How to Thread?
Using this sewing machine is straightforward. Some people claim it’s difficult to thread while others say that threading the needle is a breeze. In my opinion, it’s easy.
The automatic needle threader makes things a lot easier. It prevents eye strain and saves time. It pulls a thread loop via the needle’s eye. When you free the lever, pull the loop and voila!
If you wondered how to thread a Singer Sew Mate 5400, this is how. Once you see how easier it is to use a needle threader, you will wonder what you ever did without it.
Singer Sew Mate 5400 How to Thread Bobbin?
The bobbin situated in the unit can be easily taken off and allow the thread wound correctly. Threading is super easy. 5400 uses metal class 15 bobbins instead of the plastic ones.
Singer Sew Mate 5400 How to Use?
The Singer Sew Mate 5400 set up is relatively easy to do. 5400 comes with an intro DVD and quick start guide. Following these guides, you will be able to get sewing right away.
It appears like installing this sewing machine is a no-fuss procedure. Additionally, Singer included a DVD with detailed instructions on how to take full advantage of its useful features.
Make crafts and complete sewing projects utilizing this Singer model. It offers a wide selection of stitch patterns. It packs a lot of impressive features that benefit the passionate sewers.
The best part? It provides a heavy-duty metal frame that adds overall stability and durability to the unit. The machine intro DVD and handy quick start guide will help you get started right away.
If you’re looking for a user-friendly but feature-rich and electronic sewing machine that makes it simple and fast to sew seams into pants or hem clothing, look no further than the Singer 5400.
The Singer Sew Mate 5400 sewing machine stands well on countertops, sewing desks and any other flat surface. It’s lightweight and compact. You can easily store 5400 in your closet.
Is Singer Sew Mate 5400 Portable?
Aside from casual seamsters and beginners, this sewing machine might appeal to people who’re looking for a portable sewing machine that can be easily moved around.
It comes with built-in accessory storage. Although Singer didn’t include a cover with this sewing unit, it can be packed up fast. You can always buy Singer’s universal cover.
Whether you need to be able to install and take down your sewing station easily or you travel with your sewing tools a lot, the Singer Sew Mate 5400’s compact design could be exactly what you’re looking for.
It weighs less than 14 pounds. Moving this unit around will cause less trouble than the bigger, expensive alternatives. It’s a feature-rich, portable and lightweight machine.
Why Buy Singer Sew Mate 5400?
Extra features that Singer Sew Mate 5400 packs include automatic stitch width and length adjustment. If you’re new to the sewing world, this is going to enable you to skip a lot of hassle.
If you’re familiar with creating manual stitch adjustments, you’re likely well-aware of the frustration and time that can be saved by just pushing buttons to adjust the right stitch size that you need.
There’s also the automatic reversal capabilities you can enjoy. No matter if you want to fasten the stitch once or 3 times, skip the customization and re-positioning and just push one button to send your sewing machine into reverse mode. If you have poor eyesight, don’t worry.
This model has a built-in needle threader. It ensures that you won’t be slowed down by the hard process of threading the needle. It also prevents eye strain and saves you time.
As you can notice, this sewing machine is easy to use and makes a lot of things for you. Working on 5400 is pleasant, exciting and fun. The Singer 5400 provides a care-free, enjoyable sewing experience. It’s one of the best sewing machines for both beginners and experienced sewers.
The 5400 is free arm convertible too! No matter if you’re working on hard-to-reach spots, doll pieces, or other smaller sewing projects, the Singer 5400 will make them a breeze.
Singer Sew Mate 5400 How to Oil?
The Singer company recommends oiling your 5400 every 10 hours of use with only high-quality sewing machine oil. Singer Sew Mate 5400 oiling isn’t a complicated process.
Singer Sew Mate 5400 Manual Pdf
The Singer Sew Mate 5400 instruction manual is well-written and easy to follow. It’s a great addition for beginners. Singer Sew Mate 5400 manual download can be made at Amazon.
Singer Sew Mate 5400 C4 Error
If your Singer unit presents C4 error during bobbin winding, there could be 2 possible issues.
- There’s a plastic wheel behind the handwheel, which gets stuck when the bobbin winding shaft is moved and has to slip out by opening the front cover partially. Add a drop of sewing machine oil and should work fine as there’s spring between the plastic wheel and handwheel.
- There’s a small switch which stops the bobbin when it gets full. In this case, just move the switch to the front making a parallel to the front of the unit by tightening the screw after re-aligning This is because the screw gets loose.
The C4 error message appears when the thread is tangled with the bobbin case. In this case, take off the bobbin and clean out the area.
If that doesn’t solve the problem, then you probably need to take off the case itself. The entanglement might occur below the case where you can’t notice. Turn your sewing unit off before doing this and turn it back on after.
Singer Sew Mate 5400 Troubleshooting
The Singer 5400 is a trouble-free machine but it’s not perfect. You might encounter issues in the future. In such case, please apply the troubleshooting tips provided by the company.
Singer Sew Mate 5400 Handwheel Won’t Turn
Spin the handwheel in your direction (counter-clockwise). Turning it in the opposite way (clockwise) can knock the timing out requiring service from a service centre.
Also, make sure the presser foot stays in the DOWN setting before sewing. Sewing with the presser foot in the UP setting will cause the bobbin to jam and the thread to tangle.
Replace needles regularly (after 16 hours of use). Weak and dull needles can cause issues and damage to your fabric and sewing machine. Utilize Singer needles with your Singer.
Additionally, make sure you’re utilizing the right bobbin for your Singer sewing machine. Class 15, class 15J and class 66 look the same. 5400 utilizes metal class 15 bobbins.
Singer Sew Mate 5400 Not Working
If your sewing machine isn’t working, you may have accidentally decreased the buttonhole lever located to the left of the needle bar. Put your finger beneath the lever and push up.
Also, make sure the bobbin winding spindle has been pushed back to the left and the needle is set at the highest point. Check out these troubleshooting tips.
Always turn the handwheel in your direction until the needle moves to the highest point. At last, press the reverse button a few times to reset your sewing machine.
If nothing helps, please contact a Singer service centre to have your machine checked and serviced. 5400 is covered by a 25-year limited warranty.
Singer Sew Mate 5400 Replace Needle
Replacing your needle is super easy. It’s recommended to change your needle every 5 hours of sewing or every second task. Change damage needles as soon as possible.
Otherwise, you risk damaging your bobbin case. Keep in mind that the lower the number, the finer the needle. And therefore material you can utilize with that specific needle.
You can determine the size of a needle by observing the end that is imported into your sewing machine. I utilize 80/12 as a regular sewing needle for everyday sewing tasks.
Singer Sew Mate 5400 Bobbin Size
Make sure that you’re utilizing the bobbins that came with your Sew Mate 5400 sewing machine. If you have bought extra bobbins, make sure they’re the right ones.
Utilizing the wrong bobbins can cause the timing to be disturbed on your sewing machine. And you don’t want this. In this case, your sewing machine will need to be serviced.
The Singer Sew Mate 5400 utilizes metal Class 15 bobbins. It’s super important to utilize the proper tools for your sewing project. Always use the bobbins that came with your machine. This goes for all brands of sewing machines. The plastic Singer Class 15 won’t work with 5400.
Singer Sew Mate 5400 Accessories
The Singer Sew Mate 5400 sewing machine includes a wide selection of accessories. You can sew zippers and seams, create buttonholes, get creative with your decorative stitches, etc.
If you buy this sewing machine, you will also get a buttonhole foot, a zipper foot, all-purpose foot, extra bobbins (metal Class 15) and extra needles, thread spool caps, and a spool pin felt.
You will also receive a darning plate, auxiliary spool pin, screwdriver, cleaning brush, seam ripper, power cord, foot control, machine intro DVD and instruction manual with a stitch guide.
Where to Buy Singer Sew Mate 5400?
The Singer Sew Mate 5400 sewing machine can be purchased at Amazon. However, it’s also available at Sewing Machines Plus.
Final Thought
Looking at the dimensions, the first thought that will come to mind is that 5400 is intended for newbies only. Yes, it’s made with beginners in mind but experts can enjoy it too!
Absolute beginners will find this sewing machine valuable and easy to use. However, it packs both basic and advanced features. The advanced features will be appreciated by experts.
As a professional always on the move, buying one of these compact sewing machines is a smart choice. Singer 5400 is the perfect combination of quality, affordability and ease of use.
It’s ideal for newbies and medium level garment makers. What I like most about this model is the heavy metal frame. It adds to the sturdiness and durability of the sewing machine.
Apart from a few issues which can be easily resolved, this Singer unit is recommended to all the new and experienced sewers. You will get great value for money when you purchase it.
The above Singer Sew Mate 5400 reviews will help you in making a wise buying decision. Have you ever used this Singer model? Please, share your thoughts in the comments below.