The Singer 1234 and the Singer 7258 are two of the most popular affordable sewing machines we will compare today. In addition to being packed with features in an affordable price range, these two sewing machines produced excellent stitch quality.
What are the major differences between the two? Below I will describe the differences in the simplest terms possible.
Table of Contents
Singer 1234 vs. Singer 7258: Comparison in Features
Sewing Machine Types
The Singer 1234 is a mechanical sewing machine, while the Singer 7258 is a computerized sewing machine. Since the machine types decide they differ a lot in features, I won’t make a suggestion.
The decision has to be made on an individual level.
Singer 1234 vs. Singer 7258 : Built-in Stitches
The Singer 1234 sewing machine comes with an attractive amount of built-in stitches, 6 to be exact. Within those 6 stitches you can find standard stitches, decorative stitches and easy-to-use buttonhole stitches. While the Singer 7258 sewing machine features 100 stitches. Similar to the Singer 1234, these stitches include standard and decorative stitches.
Weight
The Singer 1234 weighs approximately 11.4 lbs, while the Singer 7258 sewing machine comes with a weight of 15 lbs.
The extra weight can become cumbersome if you don’t have a set location in your home for your sewing machine.
Start/Stop Button
The Singer 1234 doesn’t come with a start/stop button, while the Singer 7258 sewing machine does. One of the best ways of controlling some of your variables within free motion quilting is by using your start/stop button.
Speed Control Slider
The Singer 7258 sewing machine arrives with a speed control slider while the Singer 1234 doesn’t. A speed control slide is a useful feature that allows you to set the maximum speed you are comfortable with.
Automatic Needle Threader
To assist the user, self-threading sewing machines have what is called an automatic needle threader. The Singer 7258 has one while the Singer 1234 doesn’t.
Free Arm
There is free arm on both the Singer 1234 and the Singer 7258. The free arm is a very useful feature to all sewing machines as it makes sewing one layer of fabric without catching another. This is because all of the workings around the bobbin race, feed dogs, and needles are housed there.
Extra High Presser Foot Lifter
The extra-high presser foot lifter of the Singer 1234 and Singer 7258 allows you to adjust the height, as needed for large sewing projects or multiple layers of thick materials.
Singer 1234 | Singer 7258 | |
Product Image | ||
Sewing Machine Type | Mechanical | Computerized |
Stitches | 6 | 100 |
Buttonhole Styles | 1 four-step | 7 one-step |
Start/Stop Button | No | Yes |
Built-in Memory | No | No |
Programmable Needle Up/Down | No | Yes |
Monogramming Font | No | No |
Drop Feed | No, Free-motion is possible with darning plate. | No, Free-motion is possible with darning plate |
Free Arm | Yes | Yes |
Working Light | Yes | Yes LED |
Speed Control Slider | No | Yes |
Weight | 11.4 lbs | 15 lbs |
Extra High Presser Foot Lifter | Yes | Yes |
Snap-on Presser Foot | Yes | Yes |
Automatic Thread Cutter | No | No |
Automatic Needle Threader | No | Yes |
Drop-in Bobbin | No | Yes |
USB Connectivity | No | No |
Stitch Selection | Dial | LCD Display and Push Button |
Adjustable Stitch Length/Width | No | Yes |
Included Feet | General Purpose Foot, Zipper Foot, Buttonhole Foot | All-Purpose Foot (on machine), Zipper Foot, Buttonhole Foot, Blind Hem Foot, Satin Stitch Foot, Overcasting Foot, Darning & Embroidery Foot, Gathering Foot, Rolled Hem Foot, Quarter Inch Foot |
Dedicated Locking Stitch Button | No | No |
Tension | Adjustable by dial | Automatic (But adjustable with dial) |
Knee Lifter | – | No |
Warranty | – | 25 Year Limited |
Price | Check Price on Amazon | Check Price on Amazon |
Singer 1234 Video Review
Singer 7258 Video Review
The Verdict
Both of these sewing machines come from fantastic companies, but they are particularly difficult to choose between. Based on their features, my overall recommendation would be to choose the machine that comes with more built-in stitches at an affordable price.
Q. What type of maintenance do sewing machines need?
A. Today’s sewing machines usually require just a few basic steps to keep them in good working order. While the manual included with your machine will spell out the details, it’s important to regularly remove the throat plate and use a small, soft brush to remove thread, lint, and debris that might have become lodged inside the machine. Your machine may also require oiling to keep everything lubricated and running smoothly.
Q. Why use a walking foot on a sewing machine
A. A walking foot helps move knit fabrics evenly so they don’t stretch out of shape. The walking foot eliminates the need for excessive pinning when working with slippery fabrics. That is especially useful because most of those slippery fabrics, such as satin, are easily damaged by pins.
Q. What should I know about manual vs. electric sewing machines?
A. Manual sewing machines were the mainstay of the crafting world, but in more recent years electric (also known as computerized) machines have been increasing in popularity for their easy operation and advanced functions, such as embroidery.
If you’re looking for a simple sewing experience without frills, a mechanical machine gives you straightforward functionality.
Without electronic components, some feel that these machines prove more reliable in the long term.
However, computerized machines may shorten the learning curve for some new sewers, since choosing stitches and settings only requires the push of a button.
Q. Can i use clipper oil on my sewing machine
A. Yes, you can as some people do recommend it as an alternative to sewing machine oil.
Q. Do you need a special sewing machine for leather?
A. No, although a heavy-duty machine will make it easier. However, any good-quality home sewing machine can handle leather with a few special accessories. You will need a Teflon presser foot, a needle designed for sewing leather, and heavy-duty thread.
Q. Why adjust tension on sewing machine
A. Sewing machine tension adjustment is controlled by devices that separately control the needle thread and the bobbin thread, putting varying amounts of tension (or strength) on the threads they control to form a strong, balanced stitch.