If you’re searching for a sewing machine Singer Fashion Mate, you’re probably looking for something that’s reliable, beginner friendly, and versatile enough for different sewing projects. The Fashion Mate series by Singer has been a popular choice for hobbyists and home sewists for years. It combines modern convenience with solid performance, making it a good fit for everything from small mending jobs to more creative projects.
In this guide, you’ll learn about the different models in the Fashion Mate lineup, their features, pros and cons, how they perform on various fabrics, and tips for getting the most out of your machine.
Overview of the Singer Fashion Mate Series
The Singer Fashion Mate series is designed to give sewists a smooth entry into the craft without overwhelming them with overly complex controls. These machines are perfect for:
Beginners learning basic stitches and techniques
Hobbyists making home décor, clothes, or accessories
People looking for a balance between features and affordability
Popular models include:
Singer Fashion Mate 7256 Known for its 70 built in stitches and easy operation.
Singer Fashion Mate 3333 The latest style with 23 stitches, drop in bobbin, and LED lighting.
Singer Fashion Mate 3342 Offers 32 stitches and more buttonhole options for creative work.
All models are built with user convenience in mind, featuring automatic needle threaders, free arms, and stitch length adjustments.
Who the Singer Fashion Mate is Best For
Not everyone needs an industrial strength sewing machine. The sewing machine Singer Fashion Mate series is ideal for:
Beginners Easy threading, helpful manuals, and straightforward controls make it less intimidating.
DIY crafters Great for sewing bags, pillow covers, and small gifts.
Casual clothing makers Perfect for hemming, alterations, or making your own garments.
People with limited space Lightweight and compact, so it can be stored away when not in use.
If you want a machine that lets you experiment without a steep learning curve, this series is a strong choice.
Unboxing and First Impressions
When you first open the box, you’ll notice that Singer includes most of what you need to get started right away:
The sewing machine (pre threaded in some cases)
Several presser feet (all purpose, zipper, button sewing, and buttonhole)
Bobbins
Needles
Seam ripper/lint brush combo
Soft cover for dust protection
Foot controller and power cord
Instruction manual and sometimes a DVD or access to the Singer Sewing Assistant App
First-time users often appreciate that setup is simple. The top drop-in bobbin is visible through a clear cover, making it easy to see how much thread is left. The heavy duty metal frame gives a feeling of stability right from the start.
Ease of Use & Learning Curve
The Singer Fashion Mate series is designed for simplicity. Most models include:
Built in needle threader Saves time and avoids eye strain.
Clearly labeled stitch selection Just turn a dial or press buttons to pick your stitch.
Adjustable stitch length and width Lets you customize how your stitches look.
Free arm Essential for sewing sleeves, cuffs, and other circular items.
Even if you’ve never touched a sewing machine before, you can be sewing within an hour of unboxing. The instruction manual is clear, and the Singer Sewing Assistant App offers video tutorials for step by step guidance.
Performance on Different Fabrics
A good sewing machine should handle a variety of fabrics without constant tension issues or skipped stitches. The sewing machine Singer Fashion Mate models perform well across:
Lightweight cotton Smooth, even stitches for quilting or garment making.
Stretch fabrics Built in stretch stitches work well for knits and jerseys.
Denim With the right needle, it can handle hemming jeans.
Vinyl or faux leather Some models can sew multiple layers without trouble.
While these machines aren’t industrial grade, they can handle most home sewing needs. Always match your needle and thread to your fabric for best results.
Comparison Between Models (7256 vs 3333 vs 3342)
| Feature | 7256 | 3333 | 3342 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Built-in stitches | 70 | 23 | 32 |
| Buttonhole type | 6 one step styles | 4 step | 1 step |
| Needle position adjustment | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Top drop-in bobbin | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| LED lighting | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Price range | $$ | $ | $$ |
7256 Best for creative variety with 70 stitches and multiple buttonhole styles.
3333 Simple and budget-friendly, ideal for beginners.
3342 A balance between affordability and extra stitch options.
Durability & Maintenance Tips
While modern machines aren’t as indestructible as older all metal models, the Singer Fashion Mate series is built with a heavy duty metal frame inside for stability.
To extend its life:
Clean regularly Use the lint brush to remove fabric debris from the bobbin area.
Change needles often A dull needle can cause skipped stitches.
Cover when not in use Protect from dust and moisture.
Avoid forcing thick layers Let the feed dogs move the fabric naturally.
Annual servicing A quick tune up can prevent major problems.
Pros and Cons at a Glance
Pros
Easy for beginners to learn
Variety of stitch options
Automatic needle threader and drop in bobbin
Lightweight yet stable frame
Affordable price range
Cons
Not as durable as vintage all metal machines
Limited high end features like programmable needle up/down
Bobbin winding can be finicky on some units
Pricing & Best Places to Buy
The sewing machine Singer Fashion Mate series typically ranges from $130 to $200, depending on the model and features.
Best places to buy:
Amazon Frequent sales and bundles
Singer’s official website Sometimes offers exclusive discounts
Joann Fabrics or Michaels In store demos and coupons
Walmart/Target Easy returns if needed
Watch for seasonal promotions; Singer machines often drop in price around major holidays.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Bird’s nest under fabric Hold thread tails when starting to sew.
Needle threader not working Make sure the needle is in its highest position.
Uneven stitches Check tension settings and needle type.
Bobbin won’t wind properly Keep tension on the thread while winding, and don’t stop midway.
Most problems are easy to solve with basic adjustments.
Final Verdict: Is the Singer Fashion Mate Worth It?
If you want a reliable, beginner friendly sewing machine with enough features to keep you learning for years, the Singer Fashion Mate is a smart choice. It’s not built to last forever like vintage models, but it offers convenience, versatility, and great value for the price.
Whether you choose the feature rich 7256, the simple 3333, or the balanced 3342, you’ll get a machine that makes sewing approachable and fun.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I sew denim with the Singer Fashion Mate?
Yes, with a denim needle and proper settings, it can handle hems and light layers.
Q: Does it come with a warranty?
Most new Singer Fashion Mate machines have a 25 year limited warranty on the frame and 1 year coverage on parts.
Q: Is it heavy to move?
No, it’s lightweight enough to store away, yet stable during use.
Q: Which model is best for a beginner?
The 3333 is the simplest, while the 7256 offers more room to grow with advanced stitches.