You’ve landed on the right spot if you are trying to compare Singer 6180 and Spiegel SP3201. Which one is right for you? Their excellent quality makes them a fantastic choice for anyone who enjoys sewing.
What are the main differences between them? Allow me to simplify my answers here.
Table of Contents
Singer 6180 vs. Spiegel SP3201: Comparison in Features
Sewing Machine Types
The Singer 6180 is a computerized sewing machine, while the Spiegel SP3201 is a mechanical sewing machine. Since the machine types decide they differ a lot in features, I won’t make a suggestion.
The sewing machine you choose should be tailored to your skill level and goals.
Singer 6180 vs. Spiegel SP3201 : Built-in Stitches
There are 80 stitches on Singer 6180. On the other hand, the Spiegel SP3201 has 32 built-in stitches. Singer 6180 sewing machine comes with 6 one-step buttonhole(s), while Spiegel SP3201 has only 1 one-step buttonhole(s).
Weight
The Singer 6180 weighs approximately 13.8 lbs, while the Spiegel SP3201 comes with a weight of 15.76 lbs.
When you don’t have a specific spot in your home where your sewing machine belongs, the extra weight can become burdensome.
Start/Stop Button
Neither Singer 6180 sewing machine nor Spiegel SP3201 sewing machine has a start/stop button. This might not be convenient for a novice to sew effectively.
Speed Control Slider
Neither Singer 6180 sewing machine nor Spiegel SP3201 has a speed control slider. With a speed control slider, the sewing speed will never go above your selected speed, no matter how hard you press on the pedal.
Automatic Needle Threader
Many sewing machines sold today come with an automatic threader function. This is essentially a lever that will guide the thread through the eye of your sewing needle for you so that you don’t have to do it yourself. Many sewists prefer to thread their own needles, but if you have difficulty performing this task, then a machine with an automatic needle threader might be very useful for you. Fortunately, these two sewing machines both come with automatic needle threader, allowing you to thread the machine with ease.
Programmable Needle Up/Down
With a programmable needle up/down function, the needle will stop down in the fabric, allowing you to raise the presser foot and adjust the fabric without the fabric moving out of position because the needle will hold the fabric in place. However, unfortunately, these two sewing machines come with this feature.
Free Arm
There is free arm on both the Singer 6180 and the Spiegel SP3201. 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.
| Singer 6180 | Spiegel SP3201 | |
| Product Image | |
|
| Sewing Machine Type | Electronic | Mechanical |
| Stitches | 80 | 32 |
| Buttonhole Styles | 6 one-step | 1 one-step |
| Start/Stop Button | No | No |
| Built-in Memory | No | No |
| Programmable Needle Up/Down | No | No |
| Monogramming Font | No | – |
| Drop Feed | No, Free-motion is possible with darning plate | Yes |
| Free Arm | Yes | Yes |
| Working Light | Yes | Yes |
| Speed Control Slider | No | No |
| Weight | 13.8 lbs | 15.76 lbs |
| Extra High Presser Foot Lifter | Yes | – |
| Snap-on Presser Foot | Yes | – |
| Automatic Thread Cutter | No | No |
| Automatic Needle Threader | Yes | Yes |
| Drop-in Bobbin | No | Yes |
| USB Connectivity | No | No |
| Stitch Selection | LCD Display and Push Button | Dial |
| Adjustable Stitch Length/Width | Yes | Yes |
| Included Feet | All-Purpose Foot, Zipper Foot, Buttonhole Foot. | All purpose foot, Zipper foot, Button Hole foot, Button sewing foot. |
| Dedicated Locking Stitch Button | No | No |
| Tension | Automatic (But adjustable with dial) | Adjustable by dial |
| Knee Lifter | No | – |
| Warranty | 25 Year Limited | 25 Year Limited |
| Price | Check Price on Amazon | Check Price on Amazon |
Singer 6180 Video Review
Spiegel SP3201 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. 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. 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.
Q. Can I interchange metal and plastic bobbins if they are the same size?
A. Metal bobbins and plastic bobbins of the same size can NOT be swapped. Machines are set for a very precise tension setting. If they are set for a lighter plastic bobbin, the tension will change if a heavier metal bobbin is used.
Q. Can i use serger thread in my sewing machine
A. Do not use serger thread in your sewing machine. These spools of thread are tempting to buy because they’re inexpensive, but they have a very rough texture on the thread. So if you put it in your regular sewing machine, it’s going to break and jam and you’ll be really frustrated.
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 a regular sewing machine sew vinyl?
A. Yes, with the same modifications listed above for leather.
