Singer 5400 Review In Detail

Singer 5400 is an entry level electronic sewing machine. It has all the features of a medium level beginners machine. This machine comes with 60 built-in stitches which include 8 essential, 40 decorative, 8 stretch stitches and 4 one-step buttonholes. It also features an automatic needle threader. Tension is automatically set, however you can fine tune it with a dial. Same is the case with stitch length and width but you can override the settings for customization. The stitch width can be set to a maximum of 6.5mm. Stitch selection is done via push buttons. The LCD display on Singer 5400, though not backlit is easy to read. It displays the selected stitch number, stitch width and stitch length.

Singer 5400 comes with snap-on presser feet, which means you don't need a screwdriver to change presser feet. There is an easy to access automatic reverse button for reverse sewing and reinforcing stitches. Presser foot pressure is automatically set on this machine. There is a convenient storage compartment on the front of the machine, where you can store your accessories. There is an extra-high presser foot lifter to offer more clearance, especially while placing bulky fabrics for sewing. The motor inside this machine is capable of delivering 750 stitches/min.

You can sew cuffs and collars by converting this machine to free arm. There is an automatic bobbin binding clutch as well. It will disengage the needle bar while winding the bobbin, which prevents the needle from moving up and down for safe operation. 13 needle positions are available on this machine.

Ease of Use

On paper Singer 5400 looks very good. The biggest advantage is its features, especially when you consider the segment it is in. You can make use of all those decorative stitches for creative work. The variety of stitches are great for a beginner. Threading is nice and easy. It is a beginner friendly machine. While working on thick fabrics like denim, make sure that you use the right needle. The stitch quality over medium-lightweight fabrics is quite good. Even though Singer 5400 does not have a drop feed dog lever, it comes with a darning plate to cover the feed dogs so that you can do some free-motion works.

Drawbacks

The bobbin is front load type, what this means is that you will have to remove the storage attachment every time you need to access the bobbin. A top drop-in bobbin would have made it picture perfect.

Lighting can be better.

Being an electronic sewing machine, it misses out on an option to sew without using the foot pedal as it does not have sewing start/stop button and speed control slider. So if you are after a computerized machine, you can go with something like the Singer 7258.

Pros

•    Variety of features
•    Beginner friendly
•    Variety of stitches

Cons

•    No drop-in bobbin
•    Lighting can improve

Review Verdict

For the segment, Singer 5400 comes with some appealing features. It can also perform well, which goes hand in hand with the variety of stitches it comes with.