SINGER 4452FR: Heavy Duty Sewing Machine: Full Review

Singer sewing machines have been a popular brand for over 160 years, ever since Isaac Singer patented the first practical sewing machine for home use back in 1851. Singer quickly grew into the largest manufacturer of sewing machines during the late 1800s. While Singer may not dominate the market like they once did, the brand is still well-known and respected for making reliable and user-friendly sewing machines.

Singer offers sewing machines for all skill levels, from basic mechanical models to computerized machines packed with features. The Singer 4452 is one of their heavy duty mechanical sewing machines. With a metal interior frame and powerful motor, it can handle thicker fabrics like denim, canvas, and multiple layers. But it also includes options for basic sewing and decorative stitching.

Overview

The SINGER 4452FR is a heavy duty sewing machine designed for frequent home use. It has a model number of 230072112.FS and is manufactured by SINGER, a leading brand in sewing machines.

This is a mechanical sewing machine, meaning it is operated completely by hand rather than electronically. The 4452FR is constructed of a heavy duty metal interior frame with stainless steel bedplate that allows it to sew through multiple layers of fabric. It can handle everything from thin silks to heavy canvas and denim.

In addition to the 4452FR, SINGER also offers the M2100FR model, which is a versatile sewing machine suitable for beginners and experienced sewists alike. The M2100FR features a range of stitch options, an easy-to-use threading system, and adjustable stitch lengths. For those seeking a reliable and efficient sewing machine for everyday projects, consider the SINGER M2100FR: Sewing Machine.

Design and Build Quality

The Singer 4452 is a heavy duty sewing machine designed to handle thicker fabrics with ease. It has an all-metal interior frame and rigid metal body, making it extremely sturdy and durable. The machine weighs around 15 pounds, so while not super lightweight, it is still portable enough to take to classes or move around your sewing room.

The exterior has a matte black finish that gives it a sleek, modern look. All the knobs and levers are made of high quality plastic that feels sturdy. The foot pedal is made of thick plastic and has a non-slip bottom.

The machine can sew through multiple layers of denim, canvas, and other heavy duty fabrics without straining the motor. This is thanks to the powerful 110 volt motor that provides good piercing power. The all-metal needle plate has etched seam guideline markings to help guide fabric.

Overall, the solid metal interior frame, rigid metal body, and powerful motor allow this machine to tackle heavy duty projects while still remaining portable. The materials used in construction are durable and designed for longevity.

In addition to the Singer 4452, the SINGER SE9180: Sewing and Embroidery Machine offers a versatile solution for both sewing and embroidery projects. With an array of built-in stitches and embroidery designs, this machine is perfect for creative expression. Its user-friendly interface ensures that both beginners and experienced users can easily navigate through settings, making it a valuable addition to any sewing room.

Features

The Singer 4452 heavy duty sewing machine comes with a wide variety of features for both basic and more advanced sewing.

• 32 built-in stitches - The 4452 includes 32 built-in stitches including 6 basic stitches, 7 stretch stitches, 18 decorative stitches and 1 fully automatic 1-step buttonhole. This variety of stitches provides flexibility for sewing projects from clothing construction to home decor.

• Automatic needle threader - This handy feature threads the needle for you with just the push of a lever, making setup quick and frustration-free.

• Top drop-in bobbin - The machine has a top drop-in bobbin that is jam resistant for smooth sewing. The clear cover makes it easy to monitor bobbin thread supply.

• Adjustable stitch length and width - Customize stitch length from 0-4mm and stitch width from 0-6.5mm for personalized stitching on any project.

• Heavy duty metal frame - The internal skeleton of the machine is metal, providing stability and reducing vibration for smooth operation.

• Adjustable presser foot pressure - The presser foot pressure can be adjusted based on fabric thickness, improving stitch quality on a range of materials.

• Free arm - The removable flat bed attachment exposes the free arm for easier sewing on cuffs, sleeves, pant legs and other hard to reach areas.

• LED light - The built-in LED light illuminates the sewing area for improved visibility.

• Reverse stitch lever - The reverse stitch lever makes it easy to reinforce stitches by sewing in reverse.

• Adjustable needle position - Adjust the needle position left or right for specialized techniques like installing zippers and topstitching.

• Heavy duty motor - The powerful motor provides strength to get through thick fabrics without hesitation or strain.

• On board storage - Convenient storage compartments provide quick access to accessories like needles, bobbins, seam ripper and screwdriver.

Ease of Use

The Singer 4452 is designed with the beginner in mind, making it very intuitive and easy to use right out of the box. The top-loading bobbin system with a clear cover makes threading the bobbin a breeze. There is an automatic needle threader that threads the needle for you at the push of a lever, eliminating frustration and saving time.

The stitch selection dial on the front of the machine makes choosing your desired stitch simple. Just turn the dial to the stitch you want and you're ready to sew. The machine comes with an instruction manual that provides clear directions for setting up the machine, winding the bobbin, threading the machine, and selecting stitches. Controls are well-marked and straightforward.

With just a little reading of the manual, you'll be up and sewing in no time. The machine does a great job holding your hand as a beginner, but also provides all the functionality a more advanced sewer will need. Changing the foot pressure and stitch length and width is intuitive. An extension table provides extra sewing surface for larger projects.

Overall, ease of use is a major highlight on this machine. Singer designed it for fuss-free, frustration-free sewing, no matter your skill level.

Stitch Quality

The Singer 4452 is known for producing very even and consistent stitches. The machine has an all-metal interior frame that keeps all the mechanisms properly aligned for smooth sewing. This heavy-duty construction prevents parts from shifting while sewing, which can throw off stitch quality.

Reviewers consistently mention how impressed they are with the stitch consistency on multiple fabric types, from lightweight cottons to heavy canvas and denim. The 4452 has no problem maintaining neat, even stitches without bunching or looping, even when sewing at high speeds. The machine's automatic needle threader and top drop-in bobbin also help achieve uniform stitches by ensuring proper thread tension.

The feed dogs provide strong grip and advance the fabric precisely for straight seams without puckering. Even sewing challenging materials like vinyl and leather yields beautiful results. The machine can handle thick seams without deflecting the needle or diminishing stitch integrity. Overall, the stitch quality rivals more expensive machines and gives very professional results.

Noise Level

The SINGER 4452 sewing machine operates at a reasonable noise level that won't disturb most users. When running at full speed, it produces an audible hum that some may find loud in a quiet environment. However, the noise is not excessive or irritating.

The machine runs smoothly without significant vibrations that can lead to rattling noises. This allows you to focus on your sewing without distraction from the machine. Some users may find the motor noise increases at very high speeds, but overall, the noise is comparable to other sewing machines in this class.

While not silent, the 4452 won't drone on loudly as you work. The noise level shouldn't deter anyone from purchasing this capable and feature-rich sewing machine. With its sturdy internal components and quality engineering, SINGER has delivered a machine with smooth and quiet operation suitable for most home sewing needs.

Accessories

The SINGER 4452 comes with a variety of accessories to get you started sewing right out of the box.

Presser Feet

The machine includes 4 different presser feet:

• All-purpose foot - For general sewing
• Zipper foot - For inserting zippers
• Buttonhole foot - For making buttonholes
• Button sewing foot - For attaching buttons

Having multiple presser feet allows you to tackle different sewing tasks without having to purchase additional accessories. The zipper and buttonhole feet in particular make tricky sewing jobs much easier.

Needles

Several needles are included:

• 3 x sharp needles (sizes 11, 14, 16)
• 1 x ballpoint needle
• 1 x jeans needle

The assortment of universal, stretch, denim, and heavy duty needles ensures you can sew a wide variety of fabrics.

Bobbins

4 plastic bobbins are provided so you can wind multiple bobbins of matching or contrasting thread for your project.

Seam Ripper

A seam ripper/unpicker is included, an essential tool for fixing mistakes and unpicking stitches.

Spool Pins

The machine has 2 spool pins allowing you to sew with dual threads, plus a spool cap to hold threads in place.

Dust Cover

A clear plastic dust cover protects the machine when not in use.

Manual

An instruction manual covers machine operation, care, troubleshooting, and warranty information.

Overall the accessories provided with the SINGER 4452 allow you to start sewing a diverse range of projects without needing to purchase anything additional. The included feet, needles, bobbins, ripper, and more equip you for basic garment sewing, crafts, home decor projects, and more.

Warranty

The Singer 4452 comes with a limited 25-year warranty. This warranty covers the sewing machine head, which includes the motor and internal parts. The warranty protects against defects in materials and workmanship.

Normal wear, damage from improper use or care, and some adjustments are not covered. The warranty only applies to the original owner and is not transferable. Proof of purchase is required.

The extensive 25-year warranty provides peace of mind that this heavy duty sewing machine is built to last. Singer stands behind their products and will repair or replace defective parts for decades.

While some parts like lights and foot controls are not covered for the full period, the key mechanical and electrical components have excellent warranty protection. Overall, the warranty coverage is generous for a sewing machine in this price range.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Powerful 110-volt motor provides excellent stitching performance even at high speeds
• All metal internal components allow machine to handle thick fabrics without hesitation
• Automatic needle threader is very convenient and saves time
• Drop-in bobbin is easy to insert and remove
• Adjustable presser foot pressure helps with different fabric types
• Free arm makes sewing cylindrical items like sleeves easier
• 25-year limited warranty provides peace of mind

Cons:

• Heavy machine (17.2 lbs) not ideal for portable sewing
• LED light could be brighter for working in low light
• Noise level is louder than some other home sewing machines
• Included accessories are basic - may want to buy additional feet
• Buttonhole foot not automatic - requires manual adjustments