Are you planning to learn how to sew, but don’t know what machine is best for you? If that’s the case, Singer Start 1304 might be a good fit. Explore our detailed review to save time.
There are quite a few different basic sewing machines on the market, so it is not surprising that it is difficult to immediately understand and make a choice. In our review, we will look at the main properties of the Singer 1304 and try to find out what makes it stand out from the crowd and made it a bestseller. And also who and for what purposes generally buys this machine.
So let’s get down to a detailed look at what this machine has to offer.
What are Manufacturer Saying?
Singer considers the Start 1304 a clear and simple basic mechanical sewing machine. It has 6 basic built-in stitches and 57 stitch applications, including a 4-step buttonhole, which can be easily selected by turning the dial. This machine, in addition to simple stitch selection, has many additional features, such as an automatic bobbin winder mechanism, a built-in reverse function, a free arm, an easy threading system, adjustable tension controls and a high presser foot lifter. Also, this model is covered by a limited 25-year manufacturer’s warranty.
The standard package includes 3 presser feet (General Purpose, Buttonhole and Zipper), 3 Bobbins, 3 Needles, as well as Darning Plate, Needle Plate Screwdriver, Seam Ripper/Lint Brush and Spool Pin Felt.
Our Overview
The Singer 1304 may not have all the features you need, but if you are a beginner, you don’t care that many features, it’s more important that they work correctly. However, this machine has a lot of functions, it is worth considering some of them in more detail based on the comments of the owners.
Compact and Durable
It is a small, lightweight machine that may be carried around requires no assistance and does not put strain on the muscles. It is easy to store it even under the bed, even on the shelf. And most importantly, its small weight and size does not mean that it lacks strength.
The Singer 1304 outside is constructed of plastic, while the internal parts are all composed of sturdy metal. To assure longevity, each component is extremely secured in place. The outer cover has a high degree of durability and can endure the abuse that children inflict on it. The outer layer of plastic adds to the machine’s longevity by preventing rusting and extending its life.
Stitching Options
The Singer Start 1304 has six different stitch styles, users can switch between them very easily by turning the labeled knob. This makes this machine ideal for beginners who want to learn how to sew and explore different sewing options. Also, basic stitches have a preset different length and width, so you don’t have to worry about that.
Buttonholes
This sewing machine has a special mode for making buttonholes. Although it’s not as automatic as more professional machines, the process is by no means complicated. This is a four-step process that is very simple and straightforward – the stitch selection dial displays stitches that together form a whole buttonhole.
Bobbin Winding
Basically, winding the bobbin is a basic procedure, but it can be difficult for an inexperienced seamstress. The Singer Start 1304 has a special bobbin winding mechanism and instructions next to each component involved in this process. This is a fairly simple procedure that even kids can easily follow, making it great for learning to sew.
However, in some reviews, owners complain that the bobbin can sometimes get stuck inside the bobbin case, and it takes time to resolve the problem. To reduce the likelihood of this, it is advised to try to maintain a constant speed.
Reverse Stitching
The most common way to strengthen seams at the start and end is through reverse stitching. It may also be done manually, but it takes too much time. Well, this model has a reverse stitch function, to use it you need to turn on this reverse stitch mode on the front side of the machine.
Illuminated Sewing Space
It’s good to have the sewing area always lit, for this the Singer 1304 has a built-in LED light. This is a bonus that will provide bright light for your project and make it easier for you to sew at any time of the day.
Sewing Machine Video
The following is a detailed video that explains all of the capabilities of the Singer Start 1304 sewing machine in greater detail.
Who needs it?
Due to its simplicity this machine is not suitable for professional or advanced users for regular use, however its characteristics make it great for some individuals.
Beginners
The machine is very easy to use, it has everything you need to start sewing. It gives beginners a good starting point without overwhelming them with too many features at once. Plus it comes with step by step instructions and schemes.
Kids
The machine includes quite a few safety features to protect against injury, so it’s great for teaching kids how to sew. Besides, its capabilities make it easy to sew a dress for a doll or any other craft. And the light weight and size makes it easy to transport the machine to the classroom to learn different sewing methods and techniques.
Travelers
This is a great sewing machine for traveling. Due to its small size and weight, it does not take up much space in luggage, and it also has a foldable handle for easy lifting and carrying. In addition, it has metal main internal parts, so it is strong enough to withstand various harsh road conditions.
What are Owners Saying?
The feedback from the owners of this sewing machine is quite good, people like almost everything: it is easy to set up and use, it is light and easy to store and transport, and it is also very affordable. With her help, many easily learned to sew, easily repaired clothes, including jeans, sewed new wardrobe items and other accessories.
However, there are some negative reviews as well. Some users have experienced problems with thread jamming and difficulty threading the machine, even after reading the instructions. However, after you get used to it, everything will be fine.
You can read more Singer 1304 owner reviews on Amazon.
Pros
- Easy to Use and Setup
- Compact and Lightweight
- Free Arm
- Reasonable Price
Cons
- Some have Bobbin Problems
Related FAQ
It will also be beneficial to pay attention to the most frequently asked questions. This may help fill in any gaps in customers’ knowledge of this sewing machine type.
Question: Is this a great machine for a 9-year-old to learn to sew on? Is it too difficult? Is it ideal?
Answer: I got it for my 8-year-old granddaughter, who has never used a sewing machine before. The biggest issue was learning how much pressure to apply using the pedal. I practiced on an old piece of cloth.
Question: Is this machine capable of sewing denim?
Answer: The presser foot doesn’t go high enough to accommodate the thickness of the material, and the machine has a hard time sewing through heavy materials like denim or outdoor fabric. If you’re sewing heavy-duty textiles, this machine isn’t worth it.
Question: Can this sewing machine hem jeans pants?
Answer: Oh yeah. This is one of the main reasons why I bought this model. You will only need Heavy Duty needles (read the manual for the correct needle number). I got them a pack for less than $3.
Consumer Ratings
In the table below, we’ve collected consumer evaluations from reputable websites and compiled them. More than 6400 ratings and more than 2000 reviews were discovered in total. This is a good overall estimate, see below for more details.
| Source | Consumer Rating | Ratings | Reviews |
|---|---|---|---|
| amazon.com | 4.5 | > 6350 | > 1980 |
| singer.com | 3.9 | > 70 | > 70 |
The Bottom Line
The Singer Start 1304 is a great sewing machine to get you started. It is very easy to set up and very easy to use. It makes quality stitches and has enough features to perform all basic tasks. It’s affordable, and if you’re looking for something portable and durable, this might be the one for you. It won’t do anything fancy, but is great for beginners, kids, or traveling.