By
Jean Chaney
Jean Chaney
Research Writer
Jean is the brains behind her fashion label. She's a whiz with a needle and thread, and has been sewing since she was old enough to hold a pair of scissors. Jean has always read more
reviewed
Reviewed By
Isabel Misner
Isabel Misner
Expert Consultant
A professional seamstress. Isabel has her own video blog where she shares her experience about all the aspects of sewing – from choosing suitable materials to step-by-step read more
Last updated: September 16, 2023

Singer 1304 Review

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By
Jean Chaney
Jean Chaney
Research Writer
Jean is the brains behind her fashion label. She's a whiz with a needle and thread, and has been sewing since she was old enough to hold a pair of scissors. Jean has always read more
reviewed
Reviewed By
Isabel Misner
Isabel Misner
Expert Consultant
A professional seamstress. Isabel has her own video blog where she shares her experience about all the aspects of sewing – from choosing suitable materials to step-by-step read more
Last updated: September 16, 2023
JustToSew is reader-supported. We may earn a commission through products purchased using links on this page. Learn more about our process here
Ideal for
  • Beginners
  • Professional stitches
  • Reliable stitching
Key features
  • Extremely portable
  • Long-lasting
  • Easy to use
Editor's Rating
?
SewScore is a unique scoring system designed by our editors and experts. With the help of it, we can combine all the rankings based on product’s characteristics, statistics, and even feedback about the manufacturer’s customer service into one, all-encompassing score.
9,6
out of 10
  • Overall performance
    9.7
  • Stitches
    9.2
  • Ease of use
    9.8
  • Durability
    9.8
Users’ Rating
4.3
out of 5
142 Users’ Rating
rating rating rating rating rating
rating
rating rating rating rating rating
4.3
out of
5
142 Users’ Rating
  • 5 stars
    37%
  • 4 stars
    54%
  • 3 stars
    8%
  • 2 stars
    1%
  • 1 stars
    0%
Add your rating:

Ever since its beginning in 1852, the Singer company has produced the best sewing machines in the market. Every year, the company comes up with an even better model to accommodate the growing consumer need.

This time Singer came with an affordable but highly efficient model called the Singer 1304. Today, we will be doing a Singer 1304 review.

Believe it or not but this sewing machine is a mini marvel. Despite the small exterior, the machine comes with a heavy-duty frame. When it comes to efficiency, reliability, and functionality, the Singer 1304 ticks all the boxes. It is also extremely simple and easy to use.

So if you are looking for a portable and affordable sewing machine, the Singer 1304 is the way to go. Keep on reading to find out about all these features and more in detail. This will help you make an informed decision when buying a sewing machine for your stitching needs.

This product's also been included into these rankings:

Our #1 pick for the mini sewing machine
Our #3 pick for the sewing machine for kids
Our #5 pick for the sewing machine for cosplay

Specifications

Type
Mechanical
Functions
Sewing
Speed
350–400 SPM
Built-in stitches
6 (57 stitch applications)
Buttonhole styles
1 (four-step)
Stitch length
2–3.5mm
Zigzag width
Up to 5mm
Display
N/A
Lighting
LED
Dimensions
13 x 7 x 11.5 inches
Weight
10 lbs
Warranty
25 years

Singer 1304 Sewing Machine Review

The Singer 1304 sewing machine is one of its kind. Weighing just around 10 pounds, this sewing machine is extremely portable and easy to handle. The machine’s compact dimensions allow you to place it anywhere in the house or the studio. Not only that, but this mechanical sewing machine offers six different stitch options, allowing you to experiment with different designs. The Singer 1304 offers the best features all in one sewing machine!

Overall Sewing Performance

The Singer 1304 offers fast reliable stitching. When it comes to sewing performance, the Singer 1304 is known for its reliable and efficient performance. This entry-level machine helps perform all the basic tasks. Although the machine has limited stitch options, it is able to fulfill all your stitching needs.

Ease of Use

Singer 1304 Review

If you are just getting into sewing, then the Singer 1304 sewing machine is made for you. This beginner friendly sewing machine is extremely simple and easy to use.

Firstly, it’s easy to set up with just a few steps to follow. Even if you are still having trouble, you can follow the easy instructions as they come with diagrams for visual aid. Additionally, Singer offers setup videos as well.

The Singer 1304 sewing machine is also easy to get accustomed to. The machine has automatic and adjustable features that do not require a lot of change. If you are new to sewing, you will find the Singer 1304 without any of those confusing extra features. For example, the machine comes with an already pre-installed bobbin and needle. Even the stitches are easy to change on this machine. Overall, the sewing machine is extremely easy to use.

Sewing Speed

While it may not be the fastest, the Singer 1304 offers an impressive stitching speed. It’s able to go up to 350 stitches per minute, which is perfect for beginners who don’t want to be stressed by too fast stitching. At the same time, the Singer 1304 offers error-free stitching and makes sure that all the stitches look professional.

Built-in Stitches and Buttonhole Styles

The Singer 1304 comes with six built-in stitch options, including straight, buttonhole, blind hem Trusted Source Blind stitch - Wikipedia A blind stitch in sewing is a method of joining two pieces of fabric so that the stitch thread is invisible, or nearly invisible. Blind stitching hides stitching under folded edges; therefore, this type of stitch can be used to create a blind hem or to join two folded edges together. en.wikipedia.org , scallop, and satin stitches. You can easily switch between the stitches using the knob.

If you are a beginner, then you will find every stitch option illustrated for you to select easily. So if you want to add versatility to your project, then the Singer 1304 can meet your stitching needs. This machine allows you to practice and perfect your stitching before you move on to more complex stitches.

The machine offers a pre-set stitch length that is between 2 mm to 3.5 mm. The zigzag width for the stitches can go up to 5 mm.

The Singer 1304 also offers a four-step buttonhole that is adjustable. The buttonholer allows you to work with any kind of button and makes it easier to attach buttons to your finished clothing item.

Lighting

The Singer 1304 comes with an attached LED lamp that makes sewing easier. If you ever find yourself working at night or in low-light conditions, then you can turn on the LED lamp and work properly. Even if you have weak eyesight or want to work on detailed stitching, having extra light helps. Having LED lights is pretty useful as they not only last for a longer time but also remain cool, so you do not injure yourself while working with the machine.

Accessories

The Singer 1304 comes with all the basic accessories a beginner would need to start sewing right away. There are three feet included in the purchase: an all-purpose presser foot great for general sewing, as well as a zipper foot and a buttonhole foot for these specific purposes. A pack of needles and bobbins is included as well. It also comes with a darning plate that prevents bunching and tugging while sewing, as well as a needle plate screwdriver, seam ripper, foot control, and spool pin felts. To give you a quick start, a guide is also included, so is an instruction manual for more in-detail information on the machine.

Durability and Warranty

Made with the highest quality materials, the Singer 1304 is a durable sewing machine. It can last you a lifetime. You can even pass this machine down several generations. Even if it gets damaged, the company offers a 25-year warranty on the manufactured parts and a 5-year warranty on the electrical parts. The company even offers a 1-year warranty on components such as bulbs, belts, and others.

Key Features

Here are some of the key features you should consider while buying a Singer 1304 sewing machine:

Singer 1304 Review

4-Step Buttonholer

Most tailors appreciate it when there is a buttonhole feature on any sewing machine. The Singer 1304 comes with an adjustable buttonhole attachment. This buttonhole attachment is ideal for creating buttonholes for any type of button. You also get the option of buying an additional sewing foot. With the help of this sewing foot, you can attach the buttons to your clothes even quicker.

Tension Adjustment

When you are sewing, you may often face some kind of tension that hinders the stitching process. The Singer 1304 offers a solution to this problem with its automatic tension adjustment feature. With this feature, the machine adjusts the tension to the correct setting. Each type of stitch corresponds to a different type of tension setting which is adjusted by the machine itself.

Free Arm

If you want to work on smaller projects such as cuffs or hemming, then the Singer 1304 has you sorted. The free arm the machine comes with allows for easy access to difficult parts. With this free arm, you can maneuver around the clothes easily. This feature ensures that you can fully work on your clothes.

Dual Spool Pins

While sewing, you might need to stitch parallel rows of stitches. That’s when the dual spool pins on the Singer 1304 come in handy. The dual spool pins allow the user to stitch parallel rows of stitches. With this feature, you can add additional security to clothing items. Otherwise, you might have needed an embroidery machine to add security. You can also add an additional twin needle attachment for twin needle stitching.

Solid Structure

Many companies are now using cheap materials for the construction of sewing machines. But that is not the case with Singer. The Singer 1304 comes with a heavy-duty metal frame that offers greater durability. The solid structure protects the machine against all kinds of damages, making sure that it remains functional over the years.

The solid structure also enables the machine to not only handle light fabric but also work with thick layers of fabric. Despite the solid build, the machine remains lightweight and easy to handle. It is ideal for traveling and its small size allows it to fit inside a travel bag easily.

High Presser Foot Lift

With the heavy-duty frame, the Singer 1304 also offers an extra high presser foot lift. While this feature is not common among small machines, Singer 1304 goes the extra mile to ensure that you work with a high presser foot lift. With a high presser foot lift, you can work comfortably. You can also work with thick material or multiple layers of fabric easily.

Automatic Features

There are many features on the Singer 1304 that are automatic. For example, the tensioning feature, the four-step buttonhole feature, and the bobbin winding system are automatic. The machine has been designed to adjust its setting by itself, which is what makes it ideal for beginners. It also helps save time as you won’t have to adjust these settings manually. These features are easy for anyone to figure out. Even if you are on your own, the machine is easy to use.

Price Tag

This sewing machine is ideal for beginners as you don’t need a lot to invest in. This budget-friendly sewing machine costs only $199.00. You can get this affordable machine from any online store.

PROS

CONS

  • High-quality and professional stitching
  • Beginner-friendly due to its ease of use
  • Lightweight and easy to carry around
  • Budget-friendly
  • Operates with low noise
  • Does not offer a lot of versatility in terms of stitching
  • Reverse lever placement can be improved
  • Can lose upper thread if it’s not long enough

 

Conclusion

When it comes to a great starter machine, the Singer 1304 is an option to consider. While it may not have many advanced features, the machine offers simple and easy functionalities for beginners.

We hope this Singer 1304 review was helpful in covering most of the machine’s features. Now you can make an informed buying decision!

References

1.
Blind stitch - Wikipedia
A blind stitch in sewing is a method of joining two pieces of fabric so that the stitch thread is invisible, or nearly invisible. Blind stitching hides stitching under folded edges; therefore, this type of stitch can be used to create a blind hem or to join two folded edges together.
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