Singer 1304 Sewing Machine Review: A Best Selling Basic Machine to Better Your Sewing

If you are looking for the perfect beginner sewing machine, then look no further than the Singer Start 1304 Sewing Machine. When we think about sewing machines, one of the first brand names we think of is Singer. And this one is called “Start” so that’s a good sign.

Singer has been manufacturing consumer domestic sewing machines since 1851, and is still one of the most popular brands of sewing machines available today. 

The Singer Start 1304 Sewing Machine is the best choice for those who are new to sewing, but it’s also a great choice for anyone who is interested in a sewing machine for domestic use. It’s under 10 pounds too so it can be brought back and forth to a sewing class easily.

All in all the 1304 is highly affordable, functional and super easy to use. If you are looking for an entry-level sewing machine at a entry-level price, then you may want to consider the Singer Start 1304 Sewing Machine.

Singer Start 1304 Sewing Machine

Features of the Singer 1304 Sewing Machine

Although this machine is designed for beginners new to the world of sewing, the Singer 1304 Start does come with a range of different functions to help you build your skill and sew whatever you need to. 

For instance, the Singer 1304 Sewing Machine comes with six built in stitches including: straight, scallop, zigzag, satin, buttonhole, and blind hem stitches.

Some may see only six different types of stitches as limiting, but as this machine is made for beginners and for domestic use, these options are rather functional and all you will need! 

To switch from different stitches, all you have to do is twist the knob to change the setting, and then you can use different styles, lengths and widths for whatever your requirements are.  

Another feature of the Singer 1304 is its dual spool pins for sewing with twin needles. This feature is optional, which means that you can sew with two needles parallel to each other if you need to.

This is usually utilized for creating intricate and beautiful hems, or if you want to use different colored threads in each needle at the same time. 

Again, this may seem like a feature that a beginner would not need, but trust us, you will want the option later on as your sewing skills develop and grow.

In addition, the Singer 1304 has an automatic tension adjustment so that you do not have to worry about setting the tension for stitches yourself.

If you do not want to deal with the thread breakage all of the time, then the Singer 1304 can take care of this for you, saving you a lot of time and energy trying to fix it. 

Additionally, the Singer 1304 has three interchangeable presser feet to suit any requirements that you may have.

Each foot has its own functions and uses, for instance, the all purpose foot is meant for sewing activities like basic mending and joining of clothing materials.

The zipper foot is just what it sounds like – it’s for adding zippers to fabrics to make adding zippers, and creating cording and piping much easier. There is also a buttonhole foot for adding buttonholes to your clothing and projects with so much simplicity. 

As an added bonus, the Singer 1304 has a free arm that is easily accessed. This can give you much greater control and room when maneuvering as some items can be harder to stitch. You also have the option of a storage tray to keep a few things out of your way when stitching and sewing with the Singer 1304. 

Pros of the Singer 1304

The main pros of purchasing a Singer 1304 sewing machine is that this is designed for ease of use and simplicity. This machine is easy to operate, can be used by beginners, and is highly portable and lightweight.

Additionally, it is made with Singer manufacturing and therefore is highly durable, and comes with a warranty. 

Cons of the Singer 1304

One thing to consider, is that because this sewing machine is made as an entry level machine, it will not be suitable for those wanting to do more advanced sewing. Once you get experienced you may prefer to have more decorative stitches and more control of the sewing speed.

If you want to create more complex projects, then you would need a more expensive, advanced sewing machine with more features to choose from. However, if you don’t foresee yourself going down that path, the Singer 1304 may be the right fit for the job.

Who is the Singer 1304 Sewing Machine Meant for?

The Singer 1304 sewing machine is specifically designed to make sewing so much simpler and easier. This machine is intended for beginners trying their hands at sewing, but is also suitable for anyone who would like to keep a domestic sewing machine at home for general fixing and mending. 

As it is made for domestic use, the Singer 1304 has a range of features that can easily handle what the average sewing enthusiast would use it for. This compact, useful and easy to function sewing machine is so beloved by domestic sewing enthusiasts because of its ease of use, along with its inexpensive price tag.

That being said, its simplicity and lack of any other extensive and versatile sewing features means that this machine is not intended for more advanced users or sewing designs. The Singer 1304 should also not be used for commercial purposes, as it is mainly made for basic sewing and mending tasks. 

The great thing about the Singer 1304 sewing machine is that you do not need to be experienced or an advanced seamstress to be able to operate this sewing machine. It is simple to set up, use, and can even be used to teach beginners and children (under supervision) to sew with this machine. 

Can the Singer 1304 Sewing Machine Handle Tough Materials?

The Singer 1304 sewing machine is actually a very capable sewing machine to use. This means that the Singer 1304 can actually sew through sturdy fabrics and materials such as denim, and some faux and garment weight leather, however you should not really go beyond that. 

Tougher leathers and very thick fabrics will be much harder to sew and will most likely need a more powerful machine, or you may have to purchase a stronger needle made for thick materials, as the ones that come with the Singer 1304 are not heavy duty, and will break.

For thicker fabrics, you will need a Singer 2026 size 16 to 18 needle, and you can use the longest straight stitch on the machine for thicker fabrics, and ensure that you stitch very slowly so it does not get damaged. 

For general fabrics and mending of clothes and household items, the Singer 1304 sewing machine is more than capable! 

What is the Speed?

With the Singer 1304 sewing machine, this model can reach a top speed of 350 to 400 stitches per minute. This is not as many as other machines, however, this is a cost efficient, basic entry level machine.

For what this sewing machine is intended, this speed is more than enough. 

Is the Singer 1304 Durable?

The Singer 1304 is very lightweight, portable and can be taken anywhere you need to. However, it is still made with heavy duty metal and from durable materials for long lasting use. This means that you can have consistently impressive stitches for a long time with this machine. 

The overall Singer frame holds all of the internal components together and protects them from retaining any damage, and although it is a budget-friendly machine, you still have the impressive and quality craftsmanship expected of a Singer product. 

Is There a Warranty Period?

As with many high quality Singer sewing machines, the company has great faith in their impressive craftsmanship, design and durability, and so this machine comes with a 25 year limited warranty for your peace of mind. 

The electric interior parts such as wiring, motors, switches, and lighting does however only have a 2 year limited warranty, but you also get 90 days after purchasing to see whether there are any manufacturing defects that need to be rectified. 

The Finishing Touch (a.k.a. Our Final Thoughts)

When you purchase a sewing machine, you will want to ensure that it will help you do everything that you need to.

If you want to do more intermediate, intricate sewing, then a more advanced, less cost effective sewing machine may be the right choice for you. 

For a beginner, new to the craft of sewing, you cannot do better than the Singer 1304 sewing machine. This machine is designed for beginners, with 6 stitches to choose from to help with general mending and sewing. 

This entry level sewing machine will be perfect for students, or those branching out into sewing with little to no experience at all. It is simple to use and highly effective.

Final verdict? Great brand, great machine, great basic sewing option to keep handy.

Happy sewing!