All You Need to Know – From Head to Toe
Sewing is a great hobby and has a lot of benefits too (who would tell, right?).
It is an endless source of fun, and it will help you release the unwanted stress. It encourages the development of your creativity and allows you to be unique while wearing the creations that fit you like a dream.
Let’s not forget another great benefit of sewing and that’s hand-eye coordination – it helps you keep your brain and fingers agile.
There are many reasons why I would recommend you to start sewing, but the point of this article is the review of the Singer 5560 sewing machine.
The Singer company is prominent among the sewers around the world. The company has been making sewing machines since the 1850s, and they are well known for their reliability and accuracy.
No matter if you are a professional or a beginner, you need a sewing machine that will fit your needs perfectly while being easy to handle as well.
So today, I will present to you the machine that made me realize how easy it is to create new projects with the sewing machines of the new generation – the Singer 5560.
Singer 5560 How I Scored It
This machine is straightforward to use and I can guarantee you will have a lot of fun creating new projects with it. I left my overall impression in this table, so take a quick look at it before you continue with reading this article.
If you are interested to know why I graded this product the way I did, please continue to read my honest review and find out all the fantastic features and options this product has to offer.
Singer 5560 a Deep Dive
Physical features
First of all, the Singer 5560 is not too bulky, but yet you can’t say it is small too. With 16.5 x 7.8 x 13 inches (41.9 x 19.8 x 33 cm) size you can classify it as a medium-sized sewing machine. The machine weighs just a little bit under 14 pounds (6.3 kg) so you can easily transport it if and when you need to change the working space.
Knowing this, you will need to provide a broad working space for this machine.
The machines internal frame is constructed out of metal which contributes to the sturdiness and lastingness of this machine.
You will find the portable storage compartment on the front side of the machine covering the bobbin case. When you remove the storage compartment, you will get free space. Now you can easily access the needle plate surface and start sewing sleeves, cuffs, hemming the pants and other smaller designs.
One more thing – when you remove the storage compartment, you free up space for an extension table as well. The extension table is very easy to mount – just slide it on the free arm, and you are ready to work. This table comes in handy when you are due to sewing some larger pieces of clothing.
The rare feature that this machine poses is an LCD screen that gives you an easy accesses to the stitching patterns menu. You can quickly navigate through the menu thanks to the buttons on the front panel just under the LCD screen.
Here’s a handy video on selecting a stitch on Singer 5560:
You are all aware of how hard it can be to load a bobbin into those old machines where the case is located under the needle plate, and you must twist and turn your fingers to place it right.
Well, with 5560, there is no more fuss about it because this machine has a front-loading bobbin case. The bobbin case is located on the side of the machine where you can easily reach it and insert the bobbin from the front side.
The darning plate will save your day – it is usually used when sewing up a button, monogram or while quilting. This little additional accessory will prevent fabric from being dragged while you are sewing and also it prevents the fabric from coming in contact with the fabric feeder.
This machine has a built-in thread cutter located on the side of the machine that will replace the scissors you previously used to cut the thread when you finished sewing the seam.
Hard machine cover is provided to help you maintain your sewing machine dust-free when not in use.
The only thing that I can specify as a fault to this machine, in my opinion, is the lack of walking foot. The main and only purpose of a walking foot is to make sewing layers of thick fabrics easier because it makes the presser foot slide (walk) across the top of your fabric.
Using Singer 5560 in Person – My Tips
This machine is really easy to handle, but some extra words of advice are always welcome.
So let’s begin!
After you plug in your power cord, foot controller, and turn on the switch, the LED light above the needle should come on. Also, this LED lightning comes very handily because it provides bright lightning above your working space, and it stays cool to the touch.
Always make sure that you turn the handwheel towards yourself, so your needle is in the right position before you start working.
When changing the needle, make sure you always place some paper over the needle plate, so your needle doesn’t fall into the machine and get stuck in it. Always use the screwdriver that you got with the machine to loosen up the needle.
You can see the tutorial here:
You will quickly spot the little purple and grey drawing guides on the top of the machine. Purple ones are here to help you wind the bobbin correctly. The grey drawings on the machine will help you thread the needle properly.
When you are threading the bobbin, you can choose between the main spool pin or auxiliary spool pin. The only prominent difference between these two types of spool pin is in the position. Use the main spool pin if you prefer to have your thread positioned horizontally or auxiliary spool pin if you prefer it in a vertical position.
Now you can thread the needle effortlessly thanks to built-in needle threader that saves you some time and nerves, to be honest.
More about Threading The Machine:
Making the buttonhole with this machine is so easy! All you need to do is place the button on the fabric, and mark the spot where you want to make the hole. Simply slide up the back of the buttonhole foot and place the button in the hole, slide it down to secure and close it.
Select the wanted buttonhole type on the pattern menu. For sewing the button you will need to remove the current presser foot and replace it with the buttonhole foot, then place the fabric under the presser foot and line it up. Now push the foot controller and watch how this machine makes magic.
Now open the buttonhole with a seam ripper.
You can observe the process of making the buttonhole in this handy video:
What Stands Out in 5560 – Feature-Wise?
Here I will list you all the favorite and most helpful features that this machine poses.
Singer 5560 machine comes with 100 built-in stitches patterns. From basic stitches, stretch stitches, decorative stitches, to buttonhole sewing this machine really covers it all. The navigating through the stitches menu is easy just insert the number of the desired stitch, and you are almost done.
When you selected the stitch, the machine will automatically select the optimum width and length for the stitch. The size of the stitches is adjustable; you can easily make them narrower or wider with the simple press to the buttons that are placed just below the LCD screen.
The position of the needle is adjustable too. You can adjust it as you desire to help you perform diverse sewing operations like edge stitching, topstitching, and sewing up a zipper.
The variety of presser feet are excellent too. This machine comes with the general-use presser foot, Sew Easy foot, Zipper foot, and Buttonhole foot.
Zipper foot will allow you to sew up the zipper or insert the piping in no time.
I already described to you how the buttonhole foot works. Always make sure that you attached the button tight enough before closing the buttonhole foot and placing it on the foot holder.
Sew Easy foot is my favorite presser feet. This presser fit has extension arm on the side with an adjustable plastic guide that you can move left or right along the extension arm to help sew straight seams that match the marking for the seam guidelines that are located on your needle plate. This helps you sew straight seams.
You can quickly remove and attach the new presser feet thanks to snap-on presser feet feature. Just pull the lever located on the backside of the needle to release the presser feet. When you are ready, attach the new one, place the desired foot under the presser foot holder and lower it until you hear the foot snaps in the place and you are ready to go.
Also, the presser foot has an extra high position that allows you to work with thicker fabrics too.
Reverse-sew touch button helps you sew the stitches in reverse to secure the seam at the beginning and at the end to ensure your seams won’t unwind.
As I already mentioned, I am thrilled about front-loading bobbin that makes placing the bobbin in the bobbin case more straightforward.
Included Accessories and Additional Enhancements
When you open the removable storage compartment, you will find a small bag of additional accessories for the machine.
This bag contains: 4 different types of presser feet ( Sew Easy presser foot, regular-use presser foot…), pack of needles, seam ripper, main and auxiliary spool pin, thread spool cap, pack of additional bobbins (this machine use class 15 metal bobbins), needle plate screwdriver , extension table and hardcover for the machine.
Let’s list the good and the bad:
Pros
- Easy to use no matter if you are a beginner or professional
- Affordable price
- Sturdy and durable thanks to metal constructed frame
- A wide selection of stitching patterns
- Comes with removable storage compartment and a bag of additional accessories
Cons
- Lack of walking foot
My Final Thoughts & Recommendations
Singer 5560 made a big impression on me, and I highly recommend it! This machine will grant you accuracy, simplicity, and reliability.
Whether you are a professional or an amateur sewer, you will find the sewing very easy with this machine. The machine is an excellent starter product for an amateur sewer, but it is also, a valuable addition to the sewing equipment for any professional sewer too.
All the project you had on your mind until now, but you didn’t know how to realize; you can make come through with ease thanks to this fantastic product. All the features I listed in this article will help you highlight your creativity in the best possible way.
And surprisingly, the price of this product is more than affordable for the valuable product you are getting. So there is no valid excuse for you not to consider purchasing the Singer 5560.
Hello Mary Jane. What a great resource this is! I’m looking at the 5560. Is it possible to do free-motion quilting on this machine for small baby quilts? I see it has a darning plate; I’m guessing this lifts the fabric above the feed dogs. Right (the most recent machine I’ve used was made in the 80s)? So then do you need a darning foot? Is one available for the 5560? Any info appreciated. Thanks!
Dear Betsy,
Thank you for your comment and kind words!
Yes, you can do free-motion quilting on Singer 5560 for small baby quilts.
There’s a darning plate which lifts the fabric above the feed dogs. I’m pretty sure there’s a darning foot for this model. Please, check this website for parts.
Have a wonderful day and stay safe.
Love, Mary.
Thanks for all your info! Would this unit be suitable to stitch canvas (nothing fancy, just straight lines) or do I need the heavy duty unit?
All the best!
Dear Jeremy,
Thank you for your comment and kind words!
Yes, 5560 is suitable to stitch canvas. However, it lacks a walking foot. And the main and only purpose of a walking foot is to make heavy-duty projects easier to handle.
Have a wonderful day and stay safe.
Love, Mary.
Does the Singer 5560 have applique and monograming stitches?
Dear Susan,
Thank you for your comment.
Singer 5560 machine comes with 100 built-in stitches. From basic stitches, stretch stitches, decorative stitches, to buttonhole sewing this machine covers it all.
Have a lovely day and stay safe.
Love, Mary.
Hi there. I came across your review of the Singer 5560 online. It is one of the few detailed reviews I could find. I am a beginning sewer. I learned basic sewing in highschool but I would like to revisit it during the pandemic and expose my young children to the craft as well. I only have the option of the Singer 5560, the Singer 4411 (heavy duty), Singer 2282, or the Singer 1304 for purchase locally. I was leaning towards the 4411 and the 5560 but have concerns with both machines. I left a comment on your review for the Singer 5560 about which machine you would recommend but I thought after that I should elaborate more on what I am looking for and the concerns I have about each model.
My concerns about the Singer 5560 are as follows:
– Learned on a manual/electric machine. I would like a machine that will withstand the test of time with occasional use. I am concerned anything that involves computer mother boards will have more things go wrong with it and therefore be less durable.
-Besides your review there are few reviews online for this machine. Reviews on sites that sell this machine are hit or miss in terms of consumer liking this machine and thinking that it is a good machine to have.
My concerns about the Singer 4411
-I like that it is more manual instead of computerized and has a more powerful motor to accommodate a wide range of fabric thickness (mind you the thickest fabric I will likely ever sew will be jean/demin) but with the power and speed of this machine I have concerns that it will be too fast. I have read that the pedal is sensitive. The idea of not being able to sew at a slower speed, especially if I would like to teach my young girls, scares me a bit.
Given this info I would really appreciate your feedback and recommendation. I see you have reviewed both machines. Also if you think I should reconsider the 2282 or the 1304 I would appreciate your insight.
Thanks again!
Christina
Dear Christina,
Thank you for your comment and for trusting my opinion.
As you already mentioned yourself, 5560 is a computerized sewing machine. It’s loaded with advanced and automatic features. However, it’s user-friendly.
Fashion designers and sewing enthusiasts love this unit because it delivers professional-looking results.
However, if you want something more traditional, I would recommend 4411 or 2282. They’re simple and easy to use. Also, as you already mentioned, they have that traditional feel.
Yes, they’re intended for heavy-duty projects but they’re also suitable for basic tasks. The 4411 can sew thicker materials such as the ones you mentioned, including canvas.
The pedal is small, light and sensitive. However, it’s still suitable for children who want to learn how to sew. Don’t worry about the speed.
1304 is one of the units I usually recommend for beginners. So you might want to reconsider that model too. In my opinion, it’s the most suitable one for kids and beginners.
Please, read my detailed review of 1304 and go through the other Singer reviews again.
However, keep in mind that it’s not suitable for heavy-duty tasks. If you want something in the middle, that will respond to your needs and your kids’ needs, choose the 4411.
Hopefully, my reply can help you make a wise decision for you and your children. I think it’s an amazing idea to teach them how to sew since we have so much free time on our hands.
Have a nice day and stay safe.
Love, Mary.
Hi Mary.
Thank you for your input. My gut was leaning towards the 4411 but I picked up the 5560 instead, fearful of the 4411’s speed and thinking I maybe should go with something more modern/computerized. I haven’t opened the box so now there is the dilemma of whether or not I should return and exchange. I’ll keep thinking about your advice. If something else comes up that you think I should consider when thinking about the models I am looking at, please let me know.
Thanks again for your help.
Christina
Thank you for your reply!
Also, thank you for sharing further insight into your situation.
Don’t worry about the choice you have made. 5560 is a great sewing machine. As I already mentioned in the previous e-mail, it delivers professional-looking results.
It’s also computerized and user-friendly. I was leaning towards 4411 because you mentioned that you’re into more mechanical and straightforward units.
However, I’m glad that you have chosen this one. As you already said, it’s modern. Feel free to unpack it and test it out. Also, introduce it to your daughters.
You can find a lot of YouTube tutorials that can help you and your kids to complete basic projects in the beginning. Please, keep me posted in the future.
I will be so happy if you found the perfect sewing machine for you and your kids. If they find it difficult to use, you can always check these sewing machines for kids.
Have a wonderful day and happy sewing!
Love, Mary.
I am debating between purchasing this machine (Singer 5560) and the Singer 4411. I am a beginner sewer. These are my only 2 local options to purchase. Please advise.
Hi,
Thank you for your comment and for trusting my opinion.
Both sewing machines are simple and easy to use. They’re loaded with the drop-in bobbin and both can handle multiple layers of fabric with great ease.
However, you will want to think about how you will be initially using your sewing unit. If you want a unit that’s simpler and will hem jeans or sew upholstery, the 4411 is the model for you.
This machine can handle alterations and garment construction. It’s also good for straight stitching. I like the Singer 5560 better because it’s loaded with more automatic features.
Also, it comes with an extension table and 100 built-in stitches. You can easily select your desired stitch with a push of a button. And there are 6 fully automatic 1-step buttonholes.
If you’re looking for a sewing machine with great stitch quality, this is the one you should buy. I also like the extra-hight presser foot lifter, free arm, and heavy-duty metal frame.
This machine is built to last. 4411 isn’t a bad choice either. It’s one of Singer’s most popular models. It’s loaded with less built-in stitches. Other than that, it’s similar to 5560.
If you’re focused on making professional-looking clothing, I would recommend the 5560. But if you look for a heavy-duty model for various projects, look no further than 4411.
Hopefully, my short review can help you make a smart decision.
For more information, please read my reviews on both machines (5560 and 4411) and buy the one that responds to your needs.
Have a nice day and stay safe.
Love, Mary.
You said it can be use for simple quilting projects example like table runner or placemats, so it’s that mean you can’t do a queen size quilt with this machine if not what is the point of buying this machine. What is the throats size of this machine. Why is there no walking foot with this machine?
What is the warranty on this machine.
Dear Claudette,
Thank you for your comment.
I mentioned that you can use it for a basic project. However, that doesn’t mean that you can’t use it for larger projects as well. It comes with an extension table.
Hopefully, my answer will help you determine if this is the machine for you or not.
Have a wonderful day.
Love, Mary.
Wondering if Jean material is to heavy for this machine?
Dear Amanda,
Thank you for your comment.
You can easily sew the lightest weight tricots to the heaviest denim without the need for presser foot pressure adjustments on this machine.
Hopefully, my reply helps.
Have a beautiful day.
Love, Mary.
Thank you for this response! I’m going to buy this machine, I was not sure whether to buy this one or Heavy Duty one for jeans/denim. I just want to repair the torn part of my hips of my jeans not to make a new jeans. Thank you!
Dear Sal,
Thank you for asking for my opinion.
I am always here to help my readers make the right decision.
Feel free to purchase this one. You won’t need a heavy-duty sewing machine for basic repairs.
Have a wonderful day.
Love, Mary.
Your review is great , I got this machine for Christmas but I am having A LOT of trouble with the needle jamming solid , the wheel won’t even turn it totally locks up and I have to pull and yank on my material to release it . Any advice please. I’m so discouraged
Dear Cynthia,
Thank you for your comment.
There’s nothing more frustrating than having your sewing machine jam.
If your sewing machine has begun to bend or break needles there are several possible causes. The following list will help provide some ideas for troubleshooting the problem with your machine.
If after checking these possibilities and making the appropriate corrections as needed, your sewing machine continues to break or bend the needle, it may be time to take it in for repairs.
Check this list of troubleshooting tips on the official Singer website. Hopefully, my answer can help you solve your issues.
Have a nice day.
Love, Mary.
Hello!
Attempting to use a twin needle with this machine. Any tips?? I keep breaking them and they are getting stuck on the bobbin case.
Dear Rebecca,
Thank you for your comment.
There could be several reasons why your needles are breaking when using the twin needle. Please follow the steps below to resolve the issue you are having with this machine.
Keep in mind that you cannot use the needle threader to thread the twin needle. Instead, thread the twin needle by hand, from front to back.
Also, check this step-by-step on how to sew with twin needle properly. Hopefully, my answer can help you solve your issue.
Have a nice day.
Love, Mary.
Hi,
I’m a beginner and I purchased my machine used. I didn’t realize at first glance that the tension disc was missing. Do they sell replacements? I have the Singer Fashion Mate 5560.
Thank you!
Dear Talisa,
Thank you for your comment.
I suggest that you contact the seller and ask if they sell replacement parts.
If you don’t receive a reply or they don’t sell parts, you can check this website that sells parts for Singer and other brands.
Hopefully, my answer can help you solve your issue.
Love, Mary.
Can you purchase a walking foot for 5560? Is there a walking foot available for this machine?
Dear Kathy,
Thank you for your comment.
Yes, there is a walking foot for 5560. You can buy it at Singer’s official website or at Amazon.
Love, Mary.
Which walker foot is for the 5560
Dear Cindy,
Thank you for your comment.
Here is a link of the walking foot that works with Singer 5560 sewing machine.
Have a wonderful day and stay safe.
Love, Mary.
I have trouble lining up the buttonhole foot with my markings. I followed the written and on-line instructions on how to do it and the process of the buttonhole-making is not consistent,not starting on the same spot,totally random. Not sure if the needle will move upwards or downwards to start it. Do you have any advice on what to do differently?
Sincerely: Eli
Dear Erzsebet,
Thank you for your comment.
Check everything before you start. Check the buttonhole selection, check the button, check the pull-down lever, and the placement on your fabric. Make sure there is no lint or thread in the buttonholer or the bobbin area. If you still have a problem, is it possible that you accidentally lowered the feed dogs?
Please, check everything I mentioned and make sure that your machine is cleaned and oiled. Hopefully, this will help you solve your issues. Keep me posted on your problem until we find a solution together.
Love, Mary.
Thank you so much for this detailed review. I used to sew a lot, even made my wedding dress. However as I have not had a machine for many years,feel like a beginner. Now that I am retired I would like to sew again but feel like I am learning all over. Also machines have changed so much.
While still deciding if this is the right machine, I did purchase a 5560 recently on black Friday sales. I am reading reviews and watching you tube videos to decide if right for me at this time.
Can it be used for simple quilting projects?
Thank you so much
Barb
Dear Barbara,
Thank you for your comment.
The model you purchased is suitable for beginners. You can find many tutorials and reviews online that can help you learn everything that you need to know about sewing with this machine. Yes, you can use it for simple quilting projects. Hopefully, my dedicated article will help you learn more about this unit too.
Love, Mary.