I have this sewing machine and I agree with your review completely. I have not used any of the decorative stitches. Yes Naomi the noise this machine makes is crazy, but I love it. We have created many beautiful garments together.
I appreciate the time you took to share this review with us. Recently, I decided to purchase a new machine. My old one (a singer 860 new in 1981) didn't quit, but felt it wasn't able to handle heavier fabrics (like denims, fleece, etc) well and didn't want to ruin it. I began my search realizing I wanted something all purpose, but with the capability to handle heavier fabrics. After 6 months of confusion (there are so many models to choose from!!), I decided on the Singer Heavy Duty (64S ). The computerized model offered the slide speed control (which is a wonderful feature), but I decided on the manual model as I like things less complicated for choosing stitch lengths and widths and had a less than happy experience with a computerized model a few years ago. This one came with an extension table which I thought I might need as I didn't think it may fit into my sewing cabinet (I was wrong as it did fit nicely!). My choice was based on the many years of use I have gotten from my existing Singer, my price range, my age (over 70 now) and what I could sew with it. I've only had it a few months but it handles heavier fabrics so well in large part to the beefy feed dog system (my old one is a 2 piece system while this is 5) and more powerful motor (1100 st/min). While I'm not a fan of the plastic housing, it runs well (I gave it a light oiling before use) and feel it will be a simple machine to operate and MAINTAIN while still offering a wide variety of stitches for any project I may wish to tackle! Since I sew both garments and home decor (clothing to curtains and quilts),I feel confident it will be the best choice for me. And really that is what a sewing machine should be - the best choice for you. And glad to hear you are happy with your choice! thank you
I was' most of my sewing life a Brother machine user. I still have my favorite brother sewing embroidery machine and i love it still afterany many yrs of use. I don't fo the embroidery . Much anymore too small of a frame. But it stll faithfully works great. And about 4 yrs a go i decided i had to have a singer( famous name) ..either a heavyduty singer' or a quantum 9960..i chose the 9960.. and have never been disappointed..i canot say enough positive things about this machine..i absolutely love it❤! I started out ( many yrs ago) using foot pedal machines!) i honestly think i would ever go back to a foot pedal. So much easier just pushing that start option..So far ive never had to take either of my machines in to service them i do it myself when i feel they need it... I just randomly ran into your channel .and anything to do with that great ..machine catches my eye i just have to watch it..thanks for your review of it..bottom line with me is after years of sewing and having many machined through the years .i would highly recommend this machine. Its a great machine 😊
Wow! Fantastic demonstration 👍. What’s sad is that many Quantum 9960 previous owners would not recommend it. Why? The most consistent negative reviews cite the tension going bad. And this isn’t isolated to just the 9960 model; it applies to most Singer sewing machines. Let’s face it, Singer was purchased by SVP Worldwide, a U.S. investment firm. In 2006, it became part of SVP Worldwide, which combined Singer with Husqvarna Viking and PFAFF, two other major sewing machine producers. The fact is, SVP Worldwide doesn’t care about Singer or any other products they own; it's just an investment for their bottom line. After SVP Worldwide's purchase, Singers, from employees to how the products were designed and manufactured, were stripped of funding. To make matters worse, SVP Worldwide has no knowledge or experience in the sewing industry. I hope that one day Singer will be released from SVP Worldwide and acquired by a company with experience and knowledge in the sewing business. I despise Brother as a company, not their products. And I believe if another company took over Singer, it would make a comeback. For now, Singer just has a bad reputation, which isn’t their fault; SVP Worldwide is to blame.
I have had this machine for 10+ years. When I bought it I was told you never have to oil it. Wrong, you do!!!! A few months ago it stopped working but I was able to service it myself, oiled it and again it works great. Yes it is noisy, I just take my hearing aid out😂. I had a Baby Lock before this that I paid $3,000 for which didn’t last that long.
Lol, I have this model and love it! Fun fact, I just bought a Juki TL 18 QVP and it is so smooth! I still need my Quantum because of all the pros you listed. ❤
Thanks for sharing! I have this machine and mine stopped working after six months. 😢 I contacted Singer and I did have to mail it to a service center. I was without my machine for about six weeks but it was fixed. I hope it continues to work. I still like it. Great for me and I'm a beginner sewist.
My wife is graduating with her MBA and wants to fill her new spare time with quilting. I decided to buy her this machine for her graduation gift. I looking forward to making something special with it. Thank you for your review. It gives me confidence. My grandmother was a fashion design teacher and my mother sewed for years. I wish I had paid attention lol.
Yay! when you first got this machine I hoped you would do a review at some point. Thanks you! I have never used an industrial but learned to sew on a machine that didn't even have a backstitch. The conveniences of the new sewing machines are brilliant.
Hi. Just came across your channel and subscribed. I sew on Baby Lock machines (love them). I was interested in this one but decided to go crazy and get a sewing and embroidery machine combo. I purchased the Baby lock Vesta and Vibrant serger. I called it my retirement/birthday present to myself and now I am learning. Nice thing about the combo machine is it beeps when the bobbin is running out. Apparently, a feature of the embroidery side. I love the machines and it is fun learning how to work them. The RUclips sewing community has been incredible. My son showed me RUclips and I am hooked. You can learn anything on the RUclips thingy. Thank you and all the RUclips people for helping me learn. Have a nice day.
That’s cool. I’m not familiar with baby lock machines. A beeping mechanism when the bobbin runs out sounds amazing! So glad you found the RUclips sewing community 🙌🥰
Wow! I’ve had this machine a little less time than you’ve had yours and I never knew about the backstitch/petal combo. I’ve been so frustrated with how slowly it backstitches. Thank you so much for this tip!
Thanks for sharing your experiences. Much appreciated and I've been sewing for 43 years now. 16:48 I was beginning to think that I was alone is hating the machine sounds. I miss the old pre 80s machines for that reason alone. My machine is a Singer Heavy Duty 6700 and I like that it sews through tougher areas like the machines of old. I love all the decorative stitches and use them to embellish my sewing projects. Snap on feet is really nice. I however can't figure out the threading needle thing. Round button holes that emulate pre grommet opening is really nice. I was worried about having to send the machine back when I bought it as it was taking a major risk. It works nicely. Your machine does have a stretch stitch that does a small zig-zag stitch but you can only tell by looking very very closely. It stretches nicely too. I find the proprietary feet of most Berninas to be annoying as hell. My old machine is a Benina Bernette 45 and about twenty years old and sewing heavier fabrics was way beyond painful. It also jammed a lot. Some day I will be able to afford a Reliable Barracuda mine. Its designed to sew heavy fabrics. Speed isn't much but it packs the punch needed work with 4-5 layers of heavy canvas or coating wool.
I really appreciate your in put on this machine. I have this one and a few other ones. But this is my baby. My mother was a singer person and I followed her every word. She was a seamstress all her life. If she liked it I liked it She’s gone for 19 years now but her influence was my reason for buying it. But but this machine made me love it all on its own. I see most people doing channels all use Judi etc. I never see anyone using Singer.
Girl, listen, I have had 2 Singers and worked on many others (I come from a line of Singer users) and the needle threader is always finicky! My latest Singer is a Confidence Stylist that I found on Nextdoor for $100 almost brand new. The quick one stitch backstitch annoys me at times, too! I think each machine brand, especially domestic, will have its quirks. I’m glad you did this update video!❤
I've been pondering over what to say about your Singer. I got one for Christmas eons ago, it wasn't the best performing machine and when I was old enough to afford it, I got a Brother machine. That was because I couldn't afford the Bernina that I'd wanted. The Brother was a workhorse machine for decades. In the meantime, my daughter got me a Singer for Christmas. She was so proud of it, and I'm ashamed to admit that I didn't take to it. I did try, but there's this thing about "bonding" with a sewing machine that seems silly, but it's not. I kept using the Brother, except when I had a bit of quilting to do (not much), then I'd use the Singer. I could probably count on two hands the number of times I've used that machine. Anyway, I got in the habit of trolling Craigslist for used Berninas, and as luck would have it, I found one about three hours drive from me. It's the Artista 730e. The seller couldn't see the screen very well anymore (she was a quilter) and had no use for it. I got that machine for a song. Four hundred dollars, in fact. It came with the embroidery unit (that I've happily used about four times) and lots of extra feet. It was the best four hundred dollars I've ever spent. Now, what has all that to do with you? Well, I was intrigued by the fact that you critiqued a Singer machine. They don't have the reputation that they used to, and for good reason. That's not to say that you shouldn't love your machine. But I do understand why it runs so "clunkily". It's the engineering. Should you decide to try another brand, well yes, Bernina would be a great choice. Maybe. That's because it may not be the brand that you necessarily bond with. I'd suggest to give a few different brands/dealerships a try, and see what is a good fit. I get that you want a computerized machine, they're absolutely wonderful. I think you should write down what you NEED your machine to do: handle thick fabrics, run quietly and smoothly...do a great buttonhole...whatever it is you need. And decide on a price range so that you won't leave the dealership feeling as if you won't be able to sew since you'd left an arm and a leg there. Good luck, and I hope you find a machine that suits you.
I paid $1,000 for a computerized machine and it lasted about five years. Anything computerized is not going to last longer than the average phone will. I said never again and bought a 1962 Singer 500a with plenty of stitches, but most people only use like 4-5 stitches. I do buttonholes manually or with an attachment. That’s about the only thing I sort of miss. My machine takes two needles at the same time as a twin needle. Most modern machines require a twin needle, which is expensive. Plus, I hate the way modern machines sound (my Singer 201 is the only quieter machine I have). If people want a new machine, they should get one. But just know it won’t be working in 20 years. Parts won’t be available in five years. Old machines were made to last and are easily repairable. Repro and used parts are readily available.
I have a Singer Heavy Duty 4411 machine - all mechanical - and while it is probably light years behind an older metal machine like the one you have, it gives me peace of mind that it doesn't have some computer "chip" inside it (had it for 3 years). Sure, I like the idea of a button doing what you like, but you can't help but wonder when it will all malfunction.....😮💨 At any rate, all of these new machines are built for "planned obsolescence".
If you don’t mind, can you specify the brand and model of that computerized machine? I am curious becouse I owned a Brother machine and it lasted me 8 years and I gave it away to someone as I wanted to upgrade, still in perfect condition. The way you used your machine also matters a lot; what you sewed, how much you sewed, how you maintained it, etc. Yes, it’s true that modern computerised machines last much less then mechanical classic ones do but you also pay for the advantages that come with it and the advanced functions. Keep in mind that everything lasts much less nowadays, not only sewing machines. Absolutely everything. Now I agree that 5 years is too little, maybe 8-10 years would be the ideal for a computerised machine. Also, you don’t need a computerised machine to do buttonholes, even an electrical mechanical simple machine can do that.
I also have a 500a that’s been in my family for at least 10 years, I learned to sew on it and it’s been used and abused and still sews smooth like a dream. I used a modern plastic brother machine for a few years (all mechanical) and it sounded painful, couldn’t sew in a straight line, and made rats nests of bobbin thread on the underside of fabric even after adjusting tension and consulting experts. I just gave it away after someone told me it’s unfixable and went back to the old reliable, for some reason I couldn’t fit two needles in the way the instructions suggest so I bought a twin needle
I sew for a living, sometimes 10 hours a day. I used a Viking 1+ for 22 years before it gave up and am heirloom elna for 24 years before needing another. They were top of the line at the times, and never needed anything but servicing every 5 years. Don’t buy the least expensive computer machine, or the most expensive if you’re just beginning. But the computerized machine’s aren’t cheaply made!
My computerized sewing machine I purchased in 1992 lasted me for 30 years. My intention is to take it to a specialist this summer who knows how to repair the circuit board of my pfaff 7550. BUT, absolutely you are correct. My top of the line Brother 8200, rarely used, died quickly when it was about 5 years old. It was immediately obsolete. It is now ancient history. Later I did get the repairman combine it with a broken Brother 8500 Disney, also low miles, machine. I use it for embroidery. I like the memory cards and have quite a few.
Thank you for your review. I considered this machine years ago but bought a Brother machine instead. It's been a dependable machine thus far. If you do buy a Bernina or any other machine, I look forward to your review for that. (I'm looking to upgrade in another year to 18 months) Love your videos!
I love my Quautum and had trouble with the threader until I learned this step: when you are ready to push the threader down, hold the feeder threader taunt and push the @threader down. I am visually impaired and recovering from shoulder surgery, but I can sew again! (Slowly)
Wow...is that an industrial machine? Perhaps that's what I need because I have a Husqvarna Viking Epic 95Q and it only does 800 stitches per minute, and I have a Brother SE-425 that only does 710 stitches per minute.
I've had my Quantum Stylist for about 6 years. I take care of her and she takes care of me. I find my Stylist is very quiet. It sews like my mom's $2000 Babylock.
I agree with the noise. I have a 50yr old Kenmore and I love it. Look at the manual or RUclips for the threader. It’s really easy if you do it correctly.
Great video, Lydia! I watched you sew with this machine and wondered if it would be a nice upgrade from my Singer Heavy Duty 4411. But then someone on Amazon said theirs was working great for 2 years and just conked out. I bought (and then returned) one of Singer's computerized Heavy Duty machines (6800C) that inexplicably would not sew knit material - wovens yes, but something with spandex caused it to flash a warning signal. Long story short: I'm a little afraid of computerized machines. My Singer HD 4411 is mechanical, goes up to 1100 stitches per minute, and sews thick materials! I've had it for 3 years and its yet to fail me. 😊 I'd love something nicer and stronger.... but also simple. BTW, do you still have your Brother 1034d serger? You always use your Kenmore in your videos. 🙂
Thank you for the review. I bought my 9960 in 2013 when Amazon had a one-day Flash sale. I wanted a machine to take to classes, etc. I've never had a problem with it, although, it's had light use over the years (I have other machines) but in April, 2024, I had a foot pedal error message so I ordered a new foot pedal. The machine has been in time-out since April but yesterday I got it out and put the new foot pedal on to try it out. I'm still getting the same error message (release the foot pedal) and the start/stop button flashes red. I cannot sew on it and I'm wondering if it's worth it to have it repaired. I paid less than $250 for it and it's lasted 11 years.
I have the quantum Stylist and I really like it, I bought it because of your recommendation, nevertheless I see that it doesn't have a long lifespan so I might switch to a mechanical one or maybe a Bernina even though those are expensive.
I own a Bernette B37 and it’s by far the most silent machine I’ve worked with although it doesn’t do well with heavy fabrics. That would be the only minus it has, but I am happy with everything else. I don’t sew with heavy fabrics much anyways. As far as I know it’s a general rule that if a machine can sew with heavy fabrics it will be noisier then one that cannot. As for the speed, it sews 700 stitches per minute and I find that ok for garment sewing, at least for myself. I love this machine but if I were to buy a more expensive one, I’d go for a Brother innovis 1100, 1300 or 1800q, as I loved my old Brother and they are great machines generally and not extremely expensive.
Being in the Philippines , my choices of computerized sewing machines with the features you've mentioned is very limited. I currently own a Juki DDL 8100e which I actually converted to accommodate heavier fabrics. I am eyeing on the DDL 8000A because I will use it for lighter fabrics and also wanted the thread cutter and having a choice to have the needle up or down.
I just got one of these in December, replacing an ancient Montgomery Ward machine so anything was going to be an upgrade. I'm glad to hear you say one of the cons is that it sounds clunky because I've been wondering if I was doing something wrong. Not a super fan of the needle threader either, sometimes it takes me so many tries that I would have been better off hand threading it. I'm glad to see it's good with heavy duty fabrics, I haven't tried any yet and was worried about that.
Montgomery Ward???? You must have had that machine for decades. I agree about your feelings on the needle threader feature on your upgraded machine. I have that feature on my Brother SE-425 and it rarely works so I tend to just thread the needle manually when I use that machine. However, the automatic threader on my Husqvarna Viking Epic 95Q has 'never' failed and always works.
The needle threader does work. I cannot seem to enter the url link to a fantastic YT video on how to do it. So please use the following video title to find it: " Singer Automatic Needler Threader (Esteem II) "
Get a Janome Horizon Memorycraft, with the pissibility of changing the foot pressure. They also can handle havy fabric and also these machines have very nice buttonholes.
Right when I'm thinking of upgrading to Bernette b77! I was also considering Bernina's models at about that price point (Bernina 325 and 335), but those ones, even if they run more smoothly than the Bernette b77 they lack some of the convenient features that the b77 and the b38 do have... I'm so looking forward to it if you get one of the Bernina models, it would/will be so cool to get your perspective! I should also try both out in person 😅
I've had the juki 8700H and now I currently have this quantum. I agree with the cons on this machine. It's loud and clunky, but the pros outweigh the cons. I saw your Amazon storefront and nearly choked on the price listed for the Brother server 1034dx. $632.00. I've never seen it for more than a couple hundred. I'm not sure why the salesperson on Amazon made it so high. Anyway, love your review. Spot on.
Thank you for the review. I have a basic mechanical Singer that covers a lot of the bases, but it can't do buttonholes worth a damn, so I am looking for something new.
I have this machine too and I like sawing with it. Ive only been sewing since 2020 so it my 1st computerized machine. I too dont like the cluncky sound and for me now and then I have gotten fabric eaten and stuck under the throat plate. Maybe its just my experience. I Love hearing what you thought of it.
My dear love your videos. My question is I have the singer quantum 9960 and I was wondering what kind of bobbin does it use cause I purchased some bobbin but it was too small.
I don't know which exact Bernina model it was, but my friend's bernina was not more silent than my quantum! Maybe test the models if you want to go for one... And what I like about mine - I can use it without foot pedal!
I have this machine and love it so much! But I don’t have experience with an industrial machine. I’ve found with the threader, once I push it down I have to push it down a little further and it works. I’ve had it for about 7 years and no issues. Still love it. (I’m not a pro tho😂)
I’ve had this machine for about 4 years and love love love it! I use the needle threader all the time. It looks like you were putting the thread around the hook backwards but I could be wrong. Whenever I had problems threading it the needle wasn’t in correctly. It is an awesome machine and I look forward to learning how to use more of the other feet that came with the machine. Enjoyed this video.🪡👗🧵🥰
Cons:Since this machine works with the spool only in horizontal position towards the end of a spool the machine will constantly stop because the thread will be caught on the slit of the spool. You cannot back stitch with manually lifting the foot. Back stitch work only with the button. The back stitch button and a slow button is closer and some you can press the wrong button. Initial stitches may be bunched up if you use the self thread cutter. After a year of use ( uses rarely. 1 project a month ) the lower thread keeps breaking. I would buy the regular singer machine if you don’t care about the automatic thread cutter. Automatic thread cutter is the only thing which is fascinating about this machine. Also some of the built in embroideries can be elongated and mirrored
Mine tell you the truth I've never noticed that it's noisy .lol I like the sound of a sewing machine mabe that's why I don't notice that it's noisy!? And mine the threader works great and it's plenty fast enough for me😮..
Hi I couldn't find the link to your amazon store front, I looked you up on amazon and I couldn't find you. Could you please publish link? I am interested in looking at the tools you recommend. Thanks.
How is the machine with heavy fabrics? I know you said with the wool it was okay, but would love some other opinions. I like to sew denim and leather sometimes, do you think it is an okay machine for this?
My singer professional 5 serger is clunky jerky i have to put it on. Kneeling pad. Singer stopped singing years ago. But my singer is so dependable and non problematic i also got an elna 735? For 150$ ebay its quieter works great too. Its hard for any electronic device to have it all I swear ot on purpose to give variety
Interesting information. I personally love vintage machines. I don't have much luck with new machines. I bought three new machines over the years 2 Singers and 1 White. I don't like them because the gears are plastic and also the tension on all of the machines would slip and the thread would bunch up underneath in the bobbin compartment. I have 8 vintage machines and I love them all.
I bought this machine after I learned that my nearly $700.00 Janome HD3000 wasn't what it was represented to be. It had half the amperage and ran so fast you could not properly control your stitch. I found out why when I decided to void the warranty and go fishing for answers. I got a big, ugly, white nylon surprise. The entire machine inside, save for the frame, upper and lower drive shafts as well as a few linkages and the machine's head and feed dogs are completely made of thin, white nylon. That is why this pitifully inept motor was so fast, it had next to no weight to propel. OK, so I digress. I bought the 9960 because of the speed controller. I have neuropathic feet, and this would guarantee that I could sew with a controlled speed, unlike that pile of garbage with a Janome label on it. My machine came with standard feet, a Husqvarna Viking snap on foot, and 13 extra feet. My machine also came with a lot of inserts that dated this machine to 2013. So I (and you too) bought new old stock. Out of the box, the machine is a dream (mostly) to sew on. God help you if you get a thread jam, though. The automatic thread cutter can easily throw a blade, so be extra careful when dealing with a nest caught in the needle well. As well, this machine has a couple of Achilles Heels to watch out for. 1. The sensors. Some people complain that the machine suddenly does not want to sew. That is usually because the thread sensor has become fouled with lint and dust. Best practice with this machine is to simply cut your thread from the top and pull it down. Much less chance of that happening. The other one (besides the blade being thrown, which Roxanne Stitches channel on RUclips shows you how to fix for a whole dollar) are the feed dogs. They look really robust. They are anything but. They're held up by nylon grub screws. If you do anything to put pressure on these dogs, they will drop, and you will have a horrible repair bill getting this fixed. I'm going to order a couple of these grub screws so I can examine them and possibly replace mine with metal. One component Singer is skinning their customers on...the bobbin holder. If it needs replacing, they have priced this over $100.00 (I saw one at $129.00 Canadian on one of the sewing machine parts depots online). Be careful with this, as it is a ridiculously priced component. This machine has a ton of great features, and I love the lettering and deco stitches. I wouldn't advise anyone regard this as a heavy duty machine, though. The stepper motors aren't designed to start sewing duck cloth on. You could well burn one out trying to sew thick, heavy fabrics on it. Just a word of caution. How I gauge if the fabric load is too thick; I listen. If the machine starts to thump when I'm sewing, it's time to grab my all-metal Kenmore and let it take care of business. I am thrilled to learn about the dual needle making a good coverstitch. I have a serger, and it does finish the edges, but I wanted that dual T-Shirt seam. Now that I know this machine has that, I'm one happy pappy. If you want to learn the ABC's about this machine, including making it into a 3 needle position machine, Roxanne Stitches has some grainy but incredibly useful tutorials on this model. You need not ever open up an owners manual to learn how to use it. OH, and my machine, I forgot, came with a great extension table as well. That...love it! Happy Sewing Folks!!
I do not recommend this one , very unhappy with it , useless to just adjust curtains hems and couch pillows . Also can not use some thread with it for example the brands gutermann 100% polyester. Thick areas when sewing even if it is cotton impossible.not worth the money in my opinion
Why are you only comparing it to an industrial machine that’s not apples to apples. It’s not comparable and not supposed to be. It’s a wonderful home sewing machine compare to to that
I’m comparing it to an industrial because that’s what I’m used to as a professional sewer and it’s my personal take on using a domestic machine. Regardless, I still review it according to its own merits. 😊
I have this sewing machine and I agree with your review completely. I have not used any of the decorative stitches.
Yes Naomi the noise this machine makes is crazy, but I love it. We have created many beautiful garments together.
I appreciate the time you took to share this review with us. Recently, I decided to purchase a new machine. My old one (a singer 860 new in 1981) didn't quit, but felt it wasn't able to handle heavier fabrics (like denims, fleece, etc) well and didn't want to ruin it. I began my search realizing I wanted something all purpose, but with the capability to handle heavier fabrics. After 6 months of confusion (there are so many models to choose from!!), I decided on the Singer Heavy Duty (64S ). The computerized model offered the slide speed control (which is a wonderful feature), but I decided on the manual model as I like things less complicated for choosing stitch lengths and widths and had a less than happy experience with a computerized model a few years ago. This one came with an extension table which I thought I might need as I didn't think it may fit into my sewing cabinet (I was wrong as it did fit nicely!). My choice was based on the many years of use I have gotten from my existing Singer, my price range, my age (over 70 now) and what I could sew with it. I've only had it a few months but it handles heavier fabrics so well in large part to the beefy feed dog system (my old one is a 2 piece system while this is 5) and more powerful motor (1100 st/min). While I'm not a fan of the plastic housing, it runs well (I gave it a light oiling before use) and feel it will be a simple machine to operate and MAINTAIN while still offering a wide variety of stitches for any project I may wish to tackle! Since I sew both garments and home decor (clothing to curtains and quilts),I feel confident it will be the best choice for me. And really that is what a sewing machine should be - the best choice for you. And glad to hear you are happy with your choice! thank you
I was' most of my sewing life a Brother machine user. I still have my favorite brother sewing embroidery machine and i love it still afterany many yrs of use. I don't fo the embroidery . Much anymore too small of a frame. But it stll faithfully works great. And about 4 yrs a go i decided i had to have a singer( famous name) ..either a heavyduty singer' or a quantum 9960..i chose the 9960.. and have never been disappointed..i canot say enough positive things about this machine..i absolutely love it❤! I started out ( many yrs ago) using foot pedal machines!) i honestly think i would ever go back to a foot pedal. So much easier just pushing that start option..So far ive never had to take either of my machines in to service them i do it myself when i feel they need it... I just randomly ran into your channel .and anything to do with that great ..machine catches my eye i just have to watch it..thanks for your review of it..bottom line with me is after years of sewing and having many machined through the years .i would highly recommend this machine. Its a great machine 😊
ooo I have this machine. It was my first machine purchase almost 6 years ago and I still use it!!! I LOVVVVVEEEE mine!
Wow! Fantastic demonstration 👍. What’s sad is that many Quantum 9960 previous owners would not recommend it. Why? The most consistent negative reviews cite the tension going bad. And this isn’t isolated to just the 9960 model; it applies to most Singer sewing machines. Let’s face it, Singer was purchased by SVP Worldwide, a U.S. investment firm. In 2006, it became part of SVP Worldwide, which combined Singer with Husqvarna Viking and PFAFF, two other major sewing machine producers. The fact is, SVP Worldwide doesn’t care about Singer or any other products they own; it's just an investment for their bottom line. After SVP Worldwide's purchase, Singers, from employees to how the products were designed and manufactured, were stripped of funding. To make matters worse, SVP Worldwide has no knowledge or experience in the sewing industry.
I hope that one day Singer will be released from SVP Worldwide and acquired by a company with experience and knowledge in the sewing business. I despise Brother as a company, not their products. And I believe if another company took over Singer, it would make a comeback. For now, Singer just has a bad reputation, which isn’t their fault; SVP Worldwide is to blame.
My preferred sewing machine is the White brand older model, not computerized. Faster and stronger👌
I have had this machine for 10+ years. When I bought it I was told you never have to oil it. Wrong, you do!!!! A few months ago it stopped working but I was able to service it myself, oiled it and again it works great. Yes it is noisy, I just take my hearing aid out😂. I had a Baby Lock before this that I paid $3,000 for which didn’t last that long.
How much cost this one?
Google this to find the best price
Lol, I have this model and love it! Fun fact, I just bought a Juki TL 18 QVP and it is so smooth! I still need my Quantum because of all the pros you listed. ❤
Thanks for sharing! I have this machine and mine stopped working after six months. 😢 I contacted Singer and I did have to mail it to a service center. I was without my machine for about six weeks but it was fixed. I hope it continues to work. I still like it. Great for me and I'm a beginner sewist.
Bernina machines are outstanding. Once you have one, there is no going back. Thank you for the helpful review.
Which model is the best?
For what you do I would recommend the 475. Just remember to keep it oiled!
9960 is a fantastic machine… I guess that’s why it’s been in the Singer line up for a long time. Thanks for your great review! 😀
My wife is graduating with her MBA and wants to fill her new spare time with quilting. I decided to buy her this machine for her graduation gift. I looking forward to making something special with it. Thank you for your review. It gives me confidence. My grandmother was a fashion design teacher and my mother sewed for years. I wish I had paid attention lol.
On the face plate (left side) there's a a foot pressure regulator with 3 settings (●, ●●, ●●●), the middle being default.
Yay! when you first got this machine I hoped you would do a review at some point. Thanks you! I have never used an industrial but learned to sew on a machine that didn't even have a backstitch. The conveniences of the new sewing machines are brilliant.
Hi. Just came across your channel and subscribed. I sew on Baby Lock machines (love them). I was interested in this one but decided to go crazy and get a sewing and embroidery machine combo. I purchased the Baby lock Vesta and Vibrant serger. I called it my retirement/birthday present to myself and now I am learning. Nice thing about the combo machine is it beeps when the bobbin is running out. Apparently, a feature of the embroidery side. I love the machines and it is fun learning how to work them. The RUclips sewing community has been incredible. My son showed me RUclips and I am hooked. You can learn anything on the RUclips thingy. Thank you and all the RUclips people for helping me learn. Have a nice day.
That’s cool. I’m not familiar with baby lock machines. A beeping mechanism when the bobbin runs out sounds amazing! So glad you found the RUclips sewing community 🙌🥰
Wow! I’ve had this machine a little less time than you’ve had yours and I never knew about the backstitch/petal combo. I’ve been so frustrated with how slowly it backstitches. Thank you so much for this tip!
Thanks for sharing your experiences. Much appreciated and I've been sewing for 43 years now. 16:48
I was beginning to think that I was alone is hating the machine sounds. I miss the old pre 80s machines for that reason alone. My machine is a Singer Heavy Duty 6700 and I like that it sews through tougher areas like the machines of old. I love all the decorative stitches and use them to embellish my sewing projects. Snap on feet is really nice. I however can't figure out the threading needle thing. Round button holes that emulate pre grommet opening is really nice. I was worried about having to send the machine back when I bought it as it was taking a major risk. It works nicely.
Your machine does have a stretch stitch that does a small zig-zag stitch but you can only tell by looking very very closely. It stretches nicely too.
I find the proprietary feet of most Berninas to be annoying as hell. My old machine is a Benina Bernette 45 and about twenty years old and sewing heavier fabrics was way beyond painful. It also jammed a lot.
Some day I will be able to afford a Reliable Barracuda mine. Its designed to sew heavy fabrics. Speed isn't much but it packs the punch needed work with 4-5 layers of heavy canvas or coating wool.
I really appreciate your in put on this machine. I have this one and a few other ones. But this is my baby. My mother was a singer person and I followed her every word. She was a seamstress all her life. If she liked it I liked it She’s gone for 19 years now but her influence was my reason for buying it. But but this machine made me love it all on its own. I see most people doing channels all use Judi etc. I never see anyone using Singer.
Girl, listen, I have had 2 Singers and worked on many others (I come from a line of Singer users) and the needle threader is always finicky! My latest Singer is a Confidence Stylist that I found on Nextdoor for $100 almost brand new. The quick one stitch backstitch annoys me at times, too!
I think each machine brand, especially domestic, will have its quirks. I’m glad you did this update video!❤
Thank you--I purchased this machine in 2019--I do love it---still getting used to it---but it works for me... thanks for your review...
I've been pondering over what to say about your Singer. I got one for Christmas eons ago, it wasn't the best performing machine and when I was old enough to afford it, I got a Brother machine. That was because I couldn't afford the Bernina that I'd wanted. The Brother was a workhorse machine for decades. In the meantime, my daughter got me a Singer for Christmas. She was so proud of it, and I'm ashamed to admit that I didn't take to it. I did try, but there's this thing about "bonding" with a sewing machine that seems silly, but it's not. I kept using the Brother, except when I had a bit of quilting to do (not much), then I'd use the Singer. I could probably count on two hands the number of times I've used that machine. Anyway, I got in the habit of trolling Craigslist for used Berninas, and as luck would have it, I found one about three hours drive from me. It's the Artista 730e. The seller couldn't see the screen very well anymore (she was a quilter) and had no use for it. I got that machine for a song. Four hundred dollars, in fact. It came with the embroidery unit (that I've happily used about four times) and lots of extra feet. It was the best four hundred dollars I've ever spent. Now, what has all that to do with you? Well, I was intrigued by the fact that you critiqued a Singer machine. They don't have the reputation that they used to, and for good reason. That's not to say that you shouldn't love your machine. But I do understand why it runs so "clunkily". It's the engineering. Should you decide to try another brand, well yes, Bernina would be a great choice. Maybe. That's because it may not be the brand that you necessarily bond with. I'd suggest to give a few different brands/dealerships a try, and see what is a good fit. I get that you want a computerized machine, they're absolutely wonderful. I think you should write down what you NEED your machine to do: handle thick fabrics, run quietly and smoothly...do a great buttonhole...whatever it is you need. And decide on a price range so that you won't leave the dealership feeling as if you won't be able to sew since you'd left an arm and a leg there. Good luck, and I hope you find a machine that suits you.
I paid $1,000 for a computerized machine and it lasted about five years. Anything computerized is not going to last longer than the average phone will. I said never again and bought a 1962 Singer 500a with plenty of stitches, but most people only use like 4-5 stitches. I do buttonholes manually or with an attachment. That’s about the only thing I sort of miss. My machine takes two needles at the same time as a twin needle. Most modern machines require a twin needle, which is expensive. Plus, I hate the way modern machines sound (my Singer 201 is the only quieter machine I have). If people want a new machine, they should get one. But just know it won’t be working in 20 years. Parts won’t be available in five years. Old machines were made to last and are easily repairable. Repro and used parts are readily available.
I have a Singer Heavy Duty 4411 machine - all mechanical - and while it is probably light years behind an older metal machine like the one you have, it gives me peace of mind that it doesn't have some computer "chip" inside it (had it for 3 years). Sure, I like the idea of a button doing what you like, but you can't help but wonder when it will all malfunction.....😮💨
At any rate, all of these new machines are built for "planned obsolescence".
If you don’t mind, can you specify the brand and model of that computerized machine? I am curious becouse I owned a Brother machine and it lasted me 8 years and I gave it away to someone as I wanted to upgrade, still in perfect condition. The way you used your machine also matters a lot; what you sewed, how much you sewed, how you maintained it, etc. Yes, it’s true that modern computerised machines last much less then mechanical classic ones do but you also pay for the advantages that come with it and the advanced functions. Keep in mind that everything lasts much less nowadays, not only sewing machines. Absolutely everything. Now I agree that 5 years is too little, maybe 8-10 years would be the ideal for a computerised machine.
Also, you don’t need a computerised machine to do buttonholes, even an electrical mechanical simple machine can do that.
I also have a 500a that’s been in my family for at least 10 years, I learned to sew on it and it’s been used and abused and still sews smooth like a dream. I used a modern plastic brother machine for a few years (all mechanical) and it sounded painful, couldn’t sew in a straight line, and made rats nests of bobbin thread on the underside of fabric even after adjusting tension and consulting experts. I just gave it away after someone told me it’s unfixable and went back to the old reliable, for some reason I couldn’t fit two needles in the way the instructions suggest so I bought a twin needle
I sew for a living, sometimes 10 hours a day. I used a Viking 1+ for 22 years before it gave up and am heirloom elna for 24 years before needing another. They were top of the line at the times, and never needed anything but servicing every 5 years. Don’t buy the least expensive computer machine, or the most expensive if you’re just beginning. But the computerized machine’s aren’t cheaply made!
My computerized sewing machine I purchased in 1992 lasted me for 30 years. My intention is to take it to a specialist this summer who knows how to repair the circuit board of my pfaff 7550.
BUT, absolutely you are correct. My top of the line Brother 8200, rarely used, died quickly when it was about 5 years old. It was immediately obsolete. It is now ancient history. Later I did get the repairman combine it with a broken Brother 8500 Disney, also low miles, machine. I use it for embroidery. I like the memory cards and have quite a few.
Thank you for your review. I considered this machine years ago but bought a Brother machine instead. It's been a dependable machine thus far. If you do buy a Bernina or any other machine, I look forward to your review for that. (I'm looking to upgrade in another year to 18 months) Love your videos!
I love my Quautum and had trouble with the threader until I learned this step: when you are ready to push the threader down, hold the feeder threader taunt and push the @threader down. I am visually impaired and recovering from shoulder surgery, but I can sew again! (Slowly)
Get a Juki! I have the HZL DX5 and I love it! The speed is 1050 stitches per minute! And she runs so smooth!
Wow...is that an industrial machine? Perhaps that's what I need because I have a Husqvarna Viking Epic 95Q and it only does 800 stitches per minute, and I have a Brother SE-425 that only does 710 stitches per minute.
@@TaDarling1 No, it's a regular house machine. It has a lot of features and it's wonderful!
I've had my Quantum Stylist for about 6 years. I take care of her and she takes care of me. I find my Stylist is very quiet. It sews like my mom's $2000 Babylock.
I agree with the noise. I have a 50yr old Kenmore and I love it. Look at the manual or RUclips for the threader. It’s really easy if you do it correctly.
Great video, Lydia! I watched you sew with this machine and wondered if it would be a nice upgrade from my Singer Heavy Duty 4411. But then someone on Amazon said theirs was working great for 2 years and just conked out. I bought (and then returned) one of Singer's computerized Heavy Duty machines (6800C) that inexplicably would not sew knit material - wovens yes, but something with spandex caused it to flash a warning signal.
Long story short: I'm a little afraid of computerized machines. My Singer HD 4411 is mechanical, goes up to 1100 stitches per minute, and sews thick materials! I've had it for 3 years and its yet to fail me. 😊
I'd love something nicer and stronger.... but also simple.
BTW, do you still have your Brother 1034d serger? You always use your Kenmore in your videos. 🙂
Thank you for the review. I bought my 9960 in 2013 when Amazon had a one-day Flash sale. I wanted a machine to take to classes, etc. I've never had a problem with it, although, it's had light use over the years (I have other machines) but in April, 2024, I had a foot pedal error message so I ordered a new foot pedal. The machine has been in time-out since April but yesterday I got it out and put the new foot pedal on to try it out. I'm still getting the same error message (release the foot pedal) and the start/stop button flashes red. I cannot sew on it and I'm wondering if it's worth it to have it repaired. I paid less than $250 for it and it's lasted 11 years.
I have the quantum Stylist and I really like it, I bought it because of your recommendation, nevertheless I see that it doesn't have a long lifespan so I might switch to a mechanical one or maybe a Bernina even though those are expensive.
I own a Bernette B37 and it’s by far the most silent machine I’ve worked with although it doesn’t do well with heavy fabrics. That would be the only minus it has, but I am happy with everything else. I don’t sew with heavy fabrics much anyways. As far as I know it’s a general rule that if a machine can sew with heavy fabrics it will be noisier then one that cannot.
As for the speed, it sews 700 stitches per minute and I find that ok for garment sewing, at least for myself.
I love this machine but if I were to buy a more expensive one, I’d go for a Brother innovis 1100, 1300 or 1800q, as I loved my old Brother and they are great machines generally and not extremely expensive.
Being in the Philippines , my choices of computerized sewing machines with the features you've mentioned is very limited. I currently own a Juki DDL 8100e which I actually converted to accommodate heavier fabrics. I am eyeing on the DDL 8000A because I will use it for lighter fabrics and also wanted the thread cutter and having a choice to have the needle up or down.
I just got one of these in December, replacing an ancient Montgomery Ward machine so anything was going to be an upgrade. I'm glad to hear you say one of the cons is that it sounds clunky because I've been wondering if I was doing something wrong. Not a super fan of the needle threader either, sometimes it takes me so many tries that I would have been better off hand threading it. I'm glad to see it's good with heavy duty fabrics, I haven't tried any yet and was worried about that.
Montgomery Ward???? You must have had that machine for decades. I agree about your feelings on the needle threader feature on your upgraded machine. I have that feature on my Brother SE-425 and it rarely works so I tend to just thread the needle manually when I use that machine. However, the automatic threader on my Husqvarna Viking Epic 95Q has 'never' failed and always works.
The needle threader does work. I cannot seem to enter the url link to a fantastic YT video on how to do it. So please use the following video title to find it:
" Singer Automatic Needler Threader (Esteem II) "
Thank you so much im going NOW to buy this
I have one for a year now and I love it!
Get a Janome Horizon Memorycraft, with the pissibility of changing the foot pressure. They also can handle havy fabric and also these machines have very nice buttonholes.
Right when I'm thinking of upgrading to Bernette b77!
I was also considering Bernina's models at about that price point (Bernina 325 and 335), but those ones, even if they run more smoothly than the Bernette b77 they lack some of the convenient features that the b77 and the b38 do have...
I'm so looking forward to it if you get one of the Bernina models, it would/will be so cool to get your perspective! I should also try both out in person 😅
Thank you for such a nice thorough video. Have you ever tried the Singer Heavy Duty 6800C machine? How does it compare to this one?
I've had the juki 8700H and now I currently have this quantum. I agree with the cons on this machine. It's loud and clunky, but the pros outweigh the cons. I saw your Amazon storefront and nearly choked on the price listed for the Brother server 1034dx. $632.00. I've never seen it for more than a couple hundred. I'm not sure why the salesperson on Amazon made it so high. Anyway, love your review. Spot on.
Thank you for the review. I have a basic mechanical Singer that covers a lot of the bases, but it can't do buttonholes worth a damn, so I am looking for something new.
I have this machine too and I like sawing with it. Ive only been sewing since 2020 so it my 1st computerized machine. I too dont like the cluncky sound and for me now and then I have gotten fabric eaten and stuck under the throat plate. Maybe its just my experience. I Love hearing what you thought of it.
My dear love your videos. My question is I have the singer quantum 9960 and I was wondering what kind of bobbin does it use cause I purchased some bobbin but it was too small.
Singer class 15
I don't know which exact Bernina model it was, but my friend's bernina was not more silent than my quantum! Maybe test the models if you want to go for one... And what I like about mine - I can use it without foot pedal!
I have this machine and love it so much! But I don’t have experience with an industrial machine. I’ve found with the threader, once I push it down I have to push it down a little further and it works. I’ve had it for about 7 years and no issues. Still love it. (I’m not a pro tho😂)
I’ve had this machine for about 4 years and love love love it! I use the needle threader all the time. It looks like you were putting the thread around the hook backwards but I could be wrong. Whenever I had problems threading it the needle wasn’t in correctly. It is an awesome machine and I look forward to learning how to use more of the other feet that came with the machine. Enjoyed this video.🪡👗🧵🥰
I love this machine. I bought mine from a lady for $300. It was unused still in a sealed box.
What an amazing deal you got! Its a great little machine if you don't abuse it, I am going on 2 years with it :)
Cons:Since this machine works with the spool only in horizontal position towards the end of a spool the machine will constantly stop because the thread will be caught on the slit of the spool. You cannot back stitch with manually lifting the foot. Back stitch work only with the button. The back stitch button and a slow button is closer and some you can press the wrong button. Initial stitches may be bunched up if you use the self thread cutter. After a year of use ( uses rarely. 1 project a month ) the lower thread keeps breaking.
I would buy the regular singer machine if you don’t care about the automatic thread cutter. Automatic thread cutter is the only thing which is fascinating about this machine. Also some of the built in embroideries can be elongated and mirrored
I only use Schmetz needles and they fit fine in my Quantum Stylist.
@@moniquedespins3574 Really ! Is it from Amazon?Can you please share the link from where you bought ?I love those needles. I am going to try it again
@Bt234 I just buy them from my local fabric shop.
@@moniquedespins3574 Thank you so much for your comment. It worked .I edited my comment
@@Bt234 glad it worked for you.
I have this machine and I love it!!!!!
Mine tell you the truth I've never noticed that it's noisy .lol I like the sound of a sewing machine mabe that's why I don't notice that it's noisy!? And mine the threader works great and it's plenty fast enough for me😮..
Hi I couldn't find the link to your amazon store front, I looked you up on amazon and I couldn't find you. Could you please publish link? I am interested in looking at the tools you recommend. Thanks.
It's now in the description 😊
www.amazon.ca/shop/lydianaomi?ref_=cm_sw_r_mwn_aipsfshop_aipsflydianaomi_VZ19N608V82QBRT3J0GC&language=en_US
BERNINA machines are amazing and SO worth it. They are work horse machines. They’re known to be smooth quiet running machines.
Bernina’s are excellent machines . I suggest you visit a retailer and ask questions. Each machine is worth the cost.
How is the machine with heavy fabrics? I know you said with the wool it was okay, but would love some other opinions. I like to sew denim and leather sometimes, do you think it is an okay machine for this?
I haven't sewn leather on this one but I've sewn denim, the trick is to use a heavier needle and thread that is not over tex 60 thickness.
Thank you Lydia this is so helpful and kind of you to reply. @@LydiaNaomi
What Bernina sewing machine you can recommend?
My singer professional 5 serger is clunky jerky i have to put it on. Kneeling pad. Singer stopped singing years ago. But my singer is so dependable and non problematic i also got an elna 735? For 150$ ebay its quieter works great too. Its hard for any electronic device to have it all I swear ot on purpose to give variety
I have the same machine and a brotherse625 I have lots of trouble with my singer9960
Can u post the tutorial of the dress seen in the background
Interesting information. I personally love vintage machines. I don't have much luck with new machines. I bought three new machines over the years 2 Singers and 1 White. I don't like them because the gears are plastic and also the tension on all of the machines would slip and the thread would bunch up underneath in the bobbin compartment. I have 8 vintage machines and I love them all.
What machine would you recommend that’s not clunky as an alternative cause I refuse to spend 1k on a non industrial machine
You never used a walking foot??!! Girl you are missing out!
I want to buy a used sewing machine, I cannot buy a new machine
You are right; the threader does not work properly
The best Singers are the old vintage models.
I agree!
I bought this machine after I learned that my nearly $700.00 Janome HD3000 wasn't what it was represented to be. It had half the amperage and ran so fast you could not properly control your stitch. I found out why when I decided to void the warranty and go fishing for answers. I got a big, ugly, white nylon surprise. The entire machine inside, save for the frame, upper and lower drive shafts as well as a few linkages and the machine's head and feed dogs are completely made of thin, white nylon. That is why this pitifully inept motor was so fast, it had next to no weight to propel. OK, so I digress. I bought the 9960 because of the speed controller. I have neuropathic feet, and this would guarantee that I could sew with a controlled speed, unlike that pile of garbage with a Janome label on it. My machine came with standard feet, a Husqvarna Viking snap on foot, and 13 extra feet. My machine also came with a lot of inserts that dated this machine to 2013. So I (and you too) bought new old stock. Out of the box, the machine is a dream (mostly) to sew on. God help you if you get a thread jam, though. The automatic thread cutter can easily throw a blade, so be extra careful when dealing with a nest caught in the needle well. As well, this machine has a couple of Achilles Heels to watch out for. 1. The sensors. Some people complain that the machine suddenly does not want to sew. That is usually because the thread sensor has become fouled with lint and dust. Best practice with this machine is to simply cut your thread from the top and pull it down. Much less chance of that happening. The other one (besides the blade being thrown, which Roxanne Stitches channel on RUclips shows you how to fix for a whole dollar) are the feed dogs. They look really robust. They are anything but. They're held up by nylon grub screws. If you do anything to put pressure on these dogs, they will drop, and you will have a horrible repair bill getting this fixed. I'm going to order a couple of these grub screws so I can examine them and possibly replace mine with metal. One component Singer is skinning their customers on...the bobbin holder. If it needs replacing, they have priced this over $100.00 (I saw one at $129.00 Canadian on one of the sewing machine parts depots online). Be careful with this, as it is a ridiculously priced component. This machine has a ton of great features, and I love the lettering and deco stitches. I wouldn't advise anyone regard this as a heavy duty machine, though. The stepper motors aren't designed to start sewing duck cloth on. You could well burn one out trying to sew thick, heavy fabrics on it. Just a word of caution. How I gauge if the fabric load is too thick; I listen. If the machine starts to thump when I'm sewing, it's time to grab my all-metal Kenmore and let it take care of business. I am thrilled to learn about the dual needle making a good coverstitch. I have a serger, and it does finish the edges, but I wanted that dual T-Shirt seam. Now that I know this machine has that, I'm one happy pappy. If you want to learn the ABC's about this machine, including making it into a 3 needle position machine, Roxanne Stitches has some grainy but incredibly useful tutorials on this model. You need not ever open up an owners manual to learn how to use it. OH, and my machine, I forgot, came with a great extension table as well. That...love it! Happy Sewing Folks!!
is it better than 4423?
@@dnm6445 yes. More features
I do not recommend this one , very unhappy with it , useless to just adjust curtains hems and couch pillows . Also can not use some thread with it for example the brands gutermann 100% polyester. Thick areas when sewing even if it is cotton impossible.not worth the money in my opinion
Why are you only comparing it to an industrial machine that’s not apples to apples. It’s not comparable and not supposed to be. It’s a wonderful home sewing machine compare to to that
I’m comparing it to an industrial because that’s what I’m used to as a professional sewer and it’s my personal take on using a domestic machine. Regardless, I still review it according to its own merits. 😊
Computerized plastic Sewing machines don't last.. Not repairable or cost a lot of money to be repaired. Annoying with the tools and are not strong..