Singer 7258 Sewing Machine Review
The Singer 7258 sewing machine is about to become the best rated Singer on this site. Lots of stitches, accessories, positive reviews, and my favorite buttons make this one a winner.
In fact, this gives a few of the most popular Brother machines a run for their money. If you’re heart is set on this brand read through the details below. I think you’ll find this is an ideal choice whether you’re looking for your first machine, a replacement for an older one or as a gift for a beginner.
Read the rest of our Singer 7258 sewing machine review below:
Table of Contents (jump ahead!)
Stitch Count Presser Feet Functionality
Accessories Customer Reviews Pros, Cons & Manual
Singer Stylist 7258 Built In Stitches
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There are a number of things to consider when buying a new machine and choosing the right set of stitches is one of the most time-consuming, agonizing of all the choices you’ll make. The reason is that you can’t add more stitches later. You’re stuck with what you’ve got so, sure, operating buttons and accessories require some research but most of those you can learn to live without (or buy separately) whereas you’re stuck with the built in stitches for the long-haul. If you buy a machine without satin stitches amongst its built in collection, for example, you’re not going to be able to sew a line of satin crescent stitches with that machine. Ever. Period. End of story.
The set of built-in stitches also define the types of sewing you’ll be able to perform with that particular machine. A product description often will clue you in but where that is missing, a look at the set of built in stitches will help out.
Lots of stitches to choose from!
In the case of the Singer 7258, there 100 built in stitches including 6 styles of 1-step buttonholes so you know you’re going to have lots of project options.
Basic stitches are called “utility” stitches. They’re the foundation on which all sewing is built. Straight and zigzag stitches (and their slight variations) are must-have utility stitches. Blind Hem and stretch stitches are also popular utility stitches.
On top of those, the Singer Stylist 7258 also has decorative stitches, quilting stitches, and heirloom stitches. You can hem clothes, make clothes, create gorgeous quilts, make today’s popular handbag projects, sew your own curtains – even start a sewing business.
Nice, even buttonholes!
The 1-step buttonholes are described as being “perfectly balanced”. Each side of any buttonhole is sewn in the same direction so that the sides are even. The corners are reinforced, too, making for really sturdy buttonholes.
Select stitches can be modified to a maximum width of 7mm and a max stitch length of 5mm. Another nice feature is that the zigzag stitch tapers off to the center at its finish creates a more polished end line than a zigzag stitch that stops to one side or the other (“mid-zag”, so to speak).
Stitch patterns and their respective selection numbers are printed on the face of the sewing machine so you can quickly find your desired pattern and select the stitch using the controls right above,
Singer 7258 Presser Feet
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This sewing machine comes with 8 snap-on style presser feet. That’s more than most machines in this price range. Presser feet can almost always be purchased separately down the road but since that’s an extra cost, the value of any that come with your purchase should be taken into consideration when comparing sewing machines.
Included with the 7258 are the following presser feet:
- General purpose foot – used for most utility stitches
- Zipper foot – for zipper insertion
- Satin stitch foot – for satin stitches
- Buttonhole foot – sews the one-step buttonhole patterns
- Overcasting foot – for the overcasting stitches that finish off the edge of your seam
- Darning & embroidery foot – for free motion work
- Gathering foot – creates shirring by evenly bunching the fabric as you sew
- Rolled hem foot – rolls your fabric under the presser foot as you sew to hide the seam edge
Any machine which has the option to drop the feed dogs out of the way can be used to do free-motion quilting or embroidery lines but having the proper foot is required. The necessary foot – the darning and embroidery foot – is included so right away you’ll be able to try doing some monogramming or embroidery free hand style. An embroidery hoop to hold your fabric taut is helpful for performing any free motion work.
Functionality
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This is a computerized sewing machine but with really simple controls so it’s very easy to learn. It shouldn’t take more than a few minutes, in fact, to become familiar with how the buttons work. Below the Singer 7258′s LCD screen are six buttons. The two on the left are used for stitch selection. The 1st button works the 1st digit in the pattern number and the 2nd button works the second digit in the pattern number. Just push each of them as needed until the desired pattern number shows up on the screen. The other buttons are a circular quad that control stitch length and width settings.
Features include:
- Jam-proof, top drop in bobbin with see through cover
- Automatic needle threader
- Programmable Needle Up/Down
- Start/Stop button
- Speed control slider
- Reverse button sews in reverse or ties off decorative stitches
- Auto-tie off feature for straight stitch
- Max sewing speed of 750 stitches per minute
- Automatic presser foot pressure
- Automatic bobbin winding clutch
- Twin needle capable
- 13 needle positions
- Singer’s Optimum Power Control feature (redirects power to the needle arm for thick seams when needed)
- 6 point feed dog system
- Automatic tension
- Drop feed dog lever
- Horizontal thread delivery
- Free arm sewing
- Staybright™ LED Lifetime White Lamp
- Built in carry handle
- Two built in needle cutters – one on the left side of the machine AND on the back of the needle arm
- LCD screen error codes for troubleshooting
- Heavy duty metal frame
The combination of a Start/Stop button and a speed control slider is showing up on more and more machines. The two together let you sew without a foot pedal. Just slide the speed control button to your desired setting (anywhere between slow and max speed) and then push the Start/Stop button to start sewing. Push the Star/Stop button again to stop sewing.
Another button whose usefulness grows on you quickly is the Needle Up/Down button. You can program your machine to always leave the needle all the way up when you stop sewing or all the way down. You can also change this programming as needed and the button itself will move the needle to the up or down position with a single push.
There are so many ways this feature helps. You can have the machine leave the needle in the down position so you don’t have to do any repositioning for corners – just rotate your fabric. Basically, any time you’d use the hand wheel you can instead use the Up/Down button and you never have to check the hand wheel alignment to make sure you are REALLY all the way up or all the way down.
You’ll want to compare the Singer Stylist 7258 sewing machine to the Singer Confidence 7468, the 7469 and the 7469Q. All have a similar number of built in stitches – many of the same patterns – but the Stylist 7258 sewing machine comes with as many (or more) accessories and features for a far better price.
Dimensions: 14.8 x 7.76 x 11.85 inches
Weight: 14.75 pounds
Accessories
These sewing machine accessories are stored inside the arm of the sewing machine flatbed and come with your purchase:
- Pack of 5 needles
- 4 bobbins (3 in the accessory pack and one in the machine already)
- Auxiliary spool pin
- Spool pin felt discs (2)
- 3 Spool caps (mini, small, and large)
- Buttonhole opener/Seam ripper and brush
- Screwdriver for needle plate
- Darning plate
(The Singer Stylist 7258 uses Class 15J bobbins.)
Customer Reviews
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Although this machine has been out for a couple of years now, there are still only limited reviews available online. I hadn’t even noticed it before this week but it was certainly the fact that the price is under $200 that got my attention this week. The number of included stitches and accessories at it’s current Amazon price rival the Brother CS6000i, one of the most popular machines you can buy online.
Quite a number of reviews have been added to Amazon since this machine was added. Reviews show the 7258 is easy to use and that consumers like being able to sew without the foot pedal.
“My first impressions of this machine were that it was light, cute, clean, and didn’t look too confusing. Being a novice sewer, I didn’t want something that was going to confuse me too much. It took me a few minutes to figure out exactly how the bobbin…(read more here)”
“The only negative thing I can say about this machine is this: It’s so much better than my Singer Esteem II that I’m wondering just how much better an even more expensive Singer would have been. Now that I’ve realized how much fun a better-than-basic machine can be, I’m starting to…(read more here)”
Average Amazon Rating: 4.3
Pros, Cons & Manual
Pros: Operates quietly. Sturdy construction. Stitches are smooth, even, and pretty. The Start/Stop, speed control, and Needle Up/Down buttons make it easier to sew. Top loading, jam-proof bobbin is easy to work with. Excellent stitch selection.
Cons: Presser foot pressure is not adjustable, but is automatic. Stitch width is limited to 5mm whereas other machines offer a max of 7mm.
Manual available online here: Singer 7258 Manual
Manufacturer’s Warranty: As of this date,the warranty in the US is 25 year limited on the machine head, limited 5 year warranty on motors, light, assembly, wiring, switches, speed control and electronic components, and a limited 1 year warranty on adjustments, belts, rings, bulbs, and attachments. As is standard with most warranties, the warranty may be void if certain requirements are not followed.
For current pricing information, follow this link:
Features Summary Review:
Tagged with: $100-200 • computerized • electric • free motion embroidery • free-arm • light-weight • portable • quilting • sewing machine reviews • sewing machines • sewing machines for beginners • Singer • Singer 7258 • Singer Stylist 7258
Filed under: Reviews
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I absolutely love this machine! It is easy to use, the operation is smooth and quiet. The selection of stitches is great. My favorite feature is the Auto Tension! When I was comparing machines here were my options for this price range: Singer-auto tension, 100 stitches, and a lot of accessories…other machines had more stitches, manual tension, and the basic accessories. To sum it up, the Singer was my choice and I am glad I made this selection! It is a fantastic machine and is easy to use. In fact it is easier than my old Singer that I’ve had for 6 years!
Hollie – Thank you for sharing your thoughts on this machine! This site had started to become a bit out of balance with some highly rated machines from other manufacturers. I was starting to despair that I’d find decent Singer options in the same price range. When I came across this one online I thought it might hold its own. Your feedback will help others who are considering the Singer 7258.
Much appreciated!
Erin
Does the amazon purchase come with all of those presser feet? It doesnt really say…and if not, where can I purchase the Walking Foot, 1/4 inch foot and a foot that doesnt allow the machine to bunch up the fabric as I go? Thank you. I am very new to quilting and cant wait to start and this may be the machine for me!!!
Devynn – Yes, the Amazon purchase comes with the presser feet listed on this review. The listing shows quite a detailed picture of the included accessories – you just have to scroll further down the page.
These are the standard, in-the-box accessories so they’ll be there no matter where you buy the Singer 7258. You can find the walking foot here: Singer Even Feed / Walking Foot #006185008-P. The 1/4 foot might be harder to come by. There’s not even a recommended retailer on Singer’s site but the Distinctive brand presser foot should work: Distinctive 1-4 (Quarter Inch) Quilting Sewing Machine Presser Foot with Edge Guide – Fits All Low Shank Snap-On Singer*, Brother, Babylock, Husqvarna Viking (Husky Series), Euro-Pro, White, Bernina (Bernette Series), New Home, Elna and More!.
I’m not sure which presser foot you mean to help prevent bunching? The walking foot will do that but maybe you had something specific in mind? If so, just let me know and I’ll search for it.
Thanks!
Erin
Let me start by saying that I am not a seamstress. Basically, I can point out a spool of thread if it were mixed among other objects, but that’s about the extent to which I understand sewing.
I purchased this machine for my wife. We were in need to take up some pants and she had various other projects for which we need a machine. I picked up the machine locally, proceeded home and unboxed everything. I had the machine up and running within 1 hour from out of box to testing some stitching (me that is, not my wife). Aside from my wife explaining that I needed the lower thread to interact with the upper thread, I managed to do it myself. That speaks volumes to how easy Singer makes it to setup this machine.
I decided to try my hand at taking up a pair of pants. Once I determined that I needed to use a seam ripper, I was underway. Within 45 minutes, my little project was complete and I am now wearing those very pants :->
I am an engineer at heart, a geek by trade and fancy myself to be somewhat creative. This machine is a great value for what is included. This I know because I researched machines in the $200 price range.
Kudos to Singer for making a great value sewing machine that can hold its own against machines that cost significantly more.
Frank – As I’ve selected machines to add to this, I really hoped I’d find a Singer that seemed to better represent the brand than some of their other models. Their reputation has taken a hit in the past few years but so many of us grew up with the name or learned to sew on a Singer or remember watching our moms or grandmothers use a Singer and I hated to see the name take such a back seat to others. This model certainly seems designed to help them turn that around.
So glad you had a great experience with the 7258. Your feedback will really help others who feel loyalty to the brand and/or want a great machine for under $200. It’s amazing how neat some of today’s sewing machines are for not too much money!
Good luck with all your future pant-hemming projects and thanks for sharing!
Sincerely,
Erin
I am fairly new to sewing and deciding between this model and the Singer 7467. Both are on sale at Amazon for about the same price. They seem pretty similar, and even after reading a bunch of reviews, I can’t tell which one is better. Do you have any thoughts on this?
Thanks!
Kristen – These two are very close in performance but there are a couple of main differences you can use to decide between the two.
The 7258 has 30 more stitches and the very convenient Start/Stop button, Needle Up/Down button, and the speed control slider. I have these on my machine and absolutely love them. It also has a better average online rating than the 7467, although fewer reviews in general. The 7258 also has the ever-popular stippling stitch for quilting whereas the 7467 does not.
The 7467 is slightly larger by a couple of inches and slightly heaver by a couple of pounds. If you need the optimum amount of working space for large projects this might be important to you.
Other than that, both have a six point feed dog and good power. The stitch quality is the same, too, and both are compatible with a large assortment of accessory presser feet should you want to do more with your machine down the road.
Those are the things I’d look at. Hope that helps a bit!
Sincerely,
Erin
I am a little concerned…I bought my SE400 Brother at Walmart and this past week I stopped in a Brother authorized shop….the lady tried to shame me for buying a cheap machine at Walmart…saying that they are very low end and I will be very disappointed!
What gives with this? I understand that she would rather I had bought from her but I did not want to spend $700 on a sewing machine and all the reviews I have read praised the SE400 from Walmart!
By the way…so far I am loving my machine!
Several of us have heard the same sorts of comments from the sales people inside a licensed Brother retailer. I’d just take it with a grain of salt for exactly the reason you mentioned – she didn’t get the sale. That being said, I do think there are some differences in the materials used inside the Brother SE400 that probably help Brother keep the price so low. However, it continues to get outstanding ratings from LOTS of users and without this model plenty of people would not be able to afford a combination embroidery and sewing machine so I say more power to Brother for offering options across different price bands! As long as it’s working for you, just chalk her comment up for what it was and enjoy your new machine.
Hi my wife would like a sewing machine for her b-day. We have limited funds and wonder how the singer 7258 does with power?
Mike – It does very well for everyday hobby and craft sewing. It will go through denim, thick fabrics like canvas and duck, and quilt layers. It has a six point feed dog system. It could only be surpassed by machines with a DC motor or one of the straight stitch machines designed for speed.
This machine has a lot of neat features and has been well rated by other users. This machine can do so many different kinds of sewing, too – clothes, quilts, home decor, alterations, etc – that it’s likely to make a wonderful birthday present.
Sincerely,
Erin
Hi. I have a cheap sewing machine that I’m looking to replace, and I am having a terrible time deciding between the Singer 7258 and the Brother CS6000I. The reviews for the Brother are more mixed, but there are more of them so that’s expected. The Singer seems to be made of stronger materials. I’m partial to the thread “holder” on the brother that is metal and vertical b/c my Nana had to duck tape her plastic one b/c it snapped. I haven’t used either machine and would love an opinion from someone who would know better than me!! Thanks!
Katie – Both of the models you mentioned are really good machines and have very similar features. Just as you said, the reviews are strong for both and, while the CS6000i has had some low scores in the mix, the overall rating after hundreds and hundreds of reviews is outstanding. Do you have some specific kinds of sewing projects you want to do with your new machine? That kind of information might help you find the factors that would make one stand out more than the other.
(Katie is my sis’s name so I always smile when I see that name show up!)
Sincerely,
Erin
I’m a very basic sew-er. I do some quilting but it’s just the piecing of the quilt top b/c I hand quilt the whole thing together. I’m currently making some dresses with a knit material for my girls. I don’t really do very fancy things, but am a fairly decent crafter and am hoping this machine lasts a long while. I do have to be able to transport it, but both are capable of being transported. If you were going to get one, which would you get? Oh and I did read your info on the customer support (think you said Singer was better). I also have standard bobbins which won’t work with Brother. The only misgivings I have with the Brother are that it seems to be a bit tempermental and I don’t know enough about which threads to get, etc to really be able to play around. Any expert advice?
PS glad my name could make you smile!
Ooh…I had to think about this.
If it were me doing the kinds of sewing that you described, I’d go with the CS6000i because these machines are so much alike that deciding between the two comes down to accessories and stitch set. The Singer 7258 has more decorative stitches whereas the CS6000i has more quilting accessories and that would seem of more use with your sewing projects than the decorative stitches on the 7258. Hope that helps! 
Sincerely,
Erin
That helps a whole bunch! Thanks for taking the time to think about it! That’s actually the one my husband was leaning towards as well. Just purchased it off amazon and it’ll be here in a couple days. I’ll try to let you know how much I love it after getting to use it.
Congratulations! Do let me know how it goes. I’ll be excited to hear! I think you’re going to have a lot of fun with that machine.
Hi,
I came across your site while searching for sewing machines for beginners. I have zero sewing experience – in fact, I’m so new to this I don’t even know what all the parts are called! I would love to get started and experiment, however, and I’d really just be using it for basic sewing right now. Maybe eventually make some cute dresses, burp cloths, bags, etc (ie: baby shower gifts)? Is there a machine you would recommend?
I’m looking at this Singer 7258, Brother XL2600I, Brother XL2230 – and if it’s worth the initial investment, Brother CS6000i. My local Singer retailer offers product support and will teach you how to use the machine so that seems to be an added bonus to purchasing the Singer. I’m also open to any other machines you might suggest.
Thanks so much!
Jen – Believe me, just a couple of years ago, I didn’t know the names of all the parts, either.
You’ve done your homework, though, and you’ve picked some great starter models.
The XL2600i and the XL2230 are much more basic than the other two models. Super-basic. Easy to operate, not overly complicated with extra features and they’ll get the job done but I want to just point out that in my mind they’re not in the same category as the other two models you mentioned.
The other two, the Singer 7258 and the Brother CS6000i, have significantly more stitch patterns built in and all of these neat automation features that make things easier on you when you sew whether you’re a beginner or not. If you’re going to get into sewing on a regular basis – like at least monthly – you’ll really appreciate those extra features. For the price range, these are two of the best models you could pick from.
Both the 7258 and the CS6000i have great ratings, although the Brother model has been on the market longer so it has more ratings in total and a longer period in operation which suggests that we’re starting to understand it’s ability to last over time. The Singer doesn’t quite have that yet, but it does appear to be a quality machine. The Singer has more stitch patterns built in but the CS6000i comes with the walking foot and quilting foot which can help with thick fabrics.
Really, they’re fairly close in performance and features and since you can get free training from your local Singer retailer, that might be the best route for setting you up to enjoy sewing over the long haul.
Hope that helps!
Sincerely,
Erin
Erin,
Thank you so much for your input. It turns out my local Singer retailer no longer carries the Singer 7258 (they claim it’s discontinued?)Regardless, I think I’m going to go with the Singer – it comes with more feet, has plenty of built-in stitches, has enough accessories, and I found a pretty good deal online today ($50 cheaper than Amazon’s price!) so it seems like this should be a good machine that can be used even as I advance.
I have to say, I was very tempted to go with the Janome 7330 after seeing your video review
but I’m hoping that the Singer will be a good first machine? I don’t want to end up with something that will make me question if it’s my sewing ability or just a junky machine!
Also, I skimmed through the User Manual to make sure it was easy for a newbie like me to follow and if I’m not mistaken, it looks like some of the stitches can be adjusted to a max width of 7mm. (One of your cons stated that it could not be.) Page 38, if you’re curious.
PS: Thank you for this very helpful site. Your machine wizard is great and your thorough reviews are so helpful.
Jen – Glad you found a great deal on the Singer 7258. I think you’re going to love it – even compared to the Janome 7330. While I love my machine, I’m limited in the number of stitches I have. The 7258 has great reviews and is easy to use so I think you’re going to be quite pleased.
I may have to call Singer about that stitch width. I did notice the 7mm width noted in the manual but the product sheet itself says width is limited to 6mm for all stitches. Singer has a few models of machines where the knob on the machine goes to 7mm but they admit that’s only for design purposes so they can use the same knob even though certain machines might not really have a 7mm width. The manual, though, is usually correct but I’m going to double check.
Thanks for the catch!
Sincerely,
Erin
Hi, I am trying to decide between the Brother CS6000I and the Singer 7258 as well. Previously you suggested the Brother machine over the Singer for quilting. I am a novice and will mostly use the machine for dress-making (probably not knit fabrics), alterations, repairs, etc; do you have a different opinion for this type of usage? Or is there another machine I should look at too?
Thanks so much for the information, I always over-research everything!
Michelle
Michelle – This site is made for people who over-research before they buy! My dad is the king of researching products before he makes a decision but it pays off. I always think he has the perfect everything.
Overall, the Singer 7258 has more stitches than the Brother CS6000i but the accessories that come with the CS6000i do help with quilting. Not that the 7258 won’t handle quilting just fine – it was just a matter of accessories, if I recall. Outside of the stitch count and accessories, features are just about identical between the two machines. They both have six point feed dogs, an automatic needle threader, computerized controls, speed control, needle up/down button, and variable needle positions.
The CS6000i has more reviews available as it’s been on the market longer but the Singer 7258 has a growing number of reviews and they’re all positive.
Based on the type of sewing you want to do, either will work just fine and you may want to choose based on price. Or appearance…I shouldn’t say that but I paid a little more for flowers on my machine so I know that sometimes we’re just drawn to the design of one machine over another.
If you want to stick in this price range, I’d stay with one of these two machines. They’re both very popular, well rated and produce nice stitch work.
Sincerely,
Erin
Hi there!
Let me start by saying that I am SO glad I found your site. It has been so helpful in narrowing down my search for a sewing machine! Thank you so much for all the work you have put into this!
My question is, I am somewhat torn between the Singer 7256, Brother CP7500, and Brother SQ9000. I am mainly looking to sew dresses using cotton blends and knits as well as other various crafty projects like pillows, felt appliques, etc. Nothing super heavy duty but would need to be able to hem jeans if needed. I’m not a quilter, but am interested in trying my hand at one. The letter monogramming on the Brother SQ9000 isn’t really necessary but for another $20 or so, I figure why not? I noticed that the Brother CP7500 listed that it didn’t offer reinforcement stitching, whereas the Singer says it offers that as well as reverse stitching? I may be wrong about all of this since I have looked up so many machines that I’m started to get my information mixed up!
I know I’m probably looking at much more of a machine than I actually need, and the only reason I don’t have the Brother 6000i in the running is because I am obsessive and have convinced myself that I MUST have the cute little heart decorative stitch.
Please if you could, help me choose a new machine! I want one like yesterday, but I also need to feel like I’ve made the right decision!
Thank you very very much for your help!
Jen – Isn’t that heart stitch just too cute? That’s exactly how I feel about the asterisk stitch. I won’t have a machine without it. LOL!
But this really does help you, too. Now you have something to help you whittle down your list. The Singer doesn’t have the heart stitch so I’d take that off of your list. That leaves you the CP7500 and the Brother SQ9000 to compare. These two machines are very similar as both have the same sets of controls and similar stitch patterns and both come with the extension table. The differences are that the Brother SQ9000comes with 10 extra stitches, the letter font, a seven point feed dog. Both of them have reverse and reinforcement stitches so you’re in good shape on that feature.
For the extra $20-30, you get a few more stitches plus the font and a slightly stronger feed dog. Certainly a great value and the one thing I always wish I had more of on my machine is….stitches!
Hope that points you in the right direction and so glad you like the site!
Sincerely,
Erin
Oh wow! What a quick response! How awesome! Thank you! I may just get my machine ordered today! Yippie!
I think after your confirmation, I will probably go with the SQ9000. Now my problem is, Amazon doesn’t have any new ones listed! Only used, machines. I’m sure I could find another place to order from but I like the no tax and free 2 day shipping! (Amazon Prime).
I checked Amazon again about the Singer stitches and on their page they show the Heart stitch on the image they have of the stitch guide… unless it’s a different stitch and I’m just seeing what I want to see!
(2nd row of decorative stitches 3rd & 2nd from the end).
So if this stitch guide is correct, would the Singer be back in the running? Say between the Brother 7500 and Singer 7256?
Hope I’m not being too confusing and trying not to be a pain! I just often regret large purchases and wish for something else after all is said and done! Don’t want this to be the case for my new machine! At least not within the first month!
Thank you so much, once again! Oh and I LOVE the asterisk stitch too! Luckily I think they are on all the machines I’ve been looking at!
Jen – Ahhh! I think you’re looking at the Double Peak stitch. Check this list of Singer stitches: http://www.singerco.com/resources/stitch_ref.html. If you hover over the images, you’ll see the names. I thought you meant just the simple heart shape, which the Brother machines have. So, yes, now you’re list is expanded again.
Now, I am confused but that’s easy to do so no harm, but you put this comment on the review of the Singer 7258, not the 7256 so can you clarify if it is the 7256 or the 7258 which you’re considering against the Brother models? I’m going to assume it’s the 7256 but I’d rather be safe than sorry because I know EXACTLY how all of those model numbers can get jumbled up. (Been there, done that!)
Let’s compare the Brother CP7500 and the Singer 7256 then and see what shakes out. Both have 70 built in stitches but the CP7500 comes with so much more. It has the Needle Up/Down button, the Start/Stop button, Speed Control, more presser feet and the extension table. Since The CP7500 is also about $30 less than the Singer 7256, the Brother CP7500 is by far the better deal.
Which is why I wonder if you don’t really mean the Singer 7258 since it has almost the same features as the CP7500? The Singer 7258 is almost the exact same price as the CP7500 but has 30 more built in stitches. It doesn’t come with the extension table and has a couple of fewer presser feet than the CP7500 but those are the only significant differences. Again, both are also well rated by users, are easy to use, and produce great stitch work.
Let me know what you think. We’ll get you to that final decision yet!
Sincerely,
Erin
Whoops! That was supposed to be 7258! Not 7256! Sorry for the confusion! So sorry!
So it seems the Singer 7258 and Brother 7500 are pretty similar. So I have to decide if I want the extra stitches or the extra feet. Hmmm! As for the double peak stitch. If it looks like a heart, then to me it’s a heart! Although I do like the looks of the Brother stitch better!
Now here’s another thing for you. Should I just hold out for the SQ9000 or decide between these other two? What would you do if you were mainly interested in making dresses, appliques, simple bags, and possibly giving a quilt a go, but the quilting option and acessories is really not a must have for me?
Thank you for being so patient and so very helpful! As you can see by now, I’m one of those that need extra care! Hehe!
Jen – You’re exactly who this site was designed to help! Don’t worry about asking questions.
And since you’ve pointed out the heart in the double peak stitch, I agree with you – it looks like a heart! I’m not sure I ever noticed that before…
You’ve got it – between the Singer 7258 and the Brother CP7500 it’s the stitches or the feet and here’s what I’d keep in mind…you can always buy more presser feet but you can’t buy more stitches. Let’s say you get the Singer 7258 and then you wish you had the Blind Stitch foot. You can buy it separately. However, if you get the Brother CP7500 and then wish you had the little tulip stitch, too bad. This means I’d look really closely at the two sets of stitches. The utility ones are mostly the same and it’s the decorative stitches that are different.
If it were me, I’d go with the Brother CP7500, even though it didn’t have as many stitches, because it has some great cross stitches in the mix and the Singer doesn’t have any. Next to the asterisk stitch, I love cross stitches.
Both machines are well suited to any of the projects you described and both can do quilting as well, although the CP7500 comes with some of the tools that will help with quilting while the Singer 7258 would require you buy them separately.
Sincerely,
Erin
Erin,
You are truly the BEST! Thank you so so sooo much for all of your help and advice! I should be the proud new owner of a Brother CP7500 come Wednesday! I cannot wait!
After looking closely at the stitches, I do like what Brother has to offer just a little more. I was just trying my best to stick with Singer since that is what I know when it comes to sewing machine brands. Change can be a good thing sometimes though, lets hope! I also remembered that Brother offers a foot that mimics a serger. That is great! Another plus for them and for me!
Again, thank you so very much! Your help and all of the information on your site has been invaluable to me! Keep up the great work and know that you are really helping to make things so much easier for people like me that are on the hunt for their “perfect” new machine! It’s all so overwhelming, but with your help and your awesome site, it doesn’t have to be quite as challenging! Thank you thank you, again and again!
Jen – I’m so excited for you! I meant to post this yesterday but got all caught up in something and forgot to come back to this. Oooh – just a day away and you’ll be exploring your new machine. I know you’re going to be quite pleased.
Really glad, too, that this site was helpful in any way. Makes all that coding I’ve had to learn along the way worthwhile!
Sincerely,
Erin
Hi there: First time on your site — and, Wow! I am so grateful for the time and professionalism you provide here. I am an English prof, so a complete writing, grammar, communication compulsive. Thank you, Erin.
Just wanted to add to the Singer/Brother debate: Singer offers the 25 year warranty whereas Brother offers only 1 year. For me, this is critical. I’m a newbie too. I’m going with the Singer. Will report back once I’ve started learning a new trade!
Thank you, all, again. All best to you. And Erin — I am sharing your site with my students. Wonderful resource on many levels!
~AH, Oakland, CA, USA
elen – Thank you so much! High praise coming from an English professor. (English was always one of my favorite classes throughout high school and college – honest!)
You raise a good point on the warranties. They are different but I might need to do a little more homework on the comparison. Both Singer and Brother have a 25 year warranty on the head and a 1 year warranty on basic parts. Outside of that, Singer has a 5 year warranty on the motor while Brother mentions a 2 year warranty on selection components but doesn’t mention how they classify the motor.
Either way, Singer’s warranty seems to provide more coverage and this particular model is a great choice.
Good luck on your new endeavor!
Sincerely,
Erin
Looking to replace my wife’s 30+ year old singer. Looking at Singer 7258 or the Brother PC-210 PRW. What are your thoughts?
Mark – Both of those machines are excellent choices. The features are very similar. Both include lots of automation and the neatest features for today’s machines. On either one, she can move the needle with the push of a button, sew with the foot pedal or without it, control the speed, and the selection of decorative stitches provides lots of options. Both also have high marks from other consumers who have used these machines.
Here are the differences to consider. Something in this set of differences will probably steer you one way or the other based on your wife’s preferences:
1. Stitch count – At first glance, the Singer appears to have twice the number of built in stitches, 23 of the patterns are simply the reverse of another pattern so it really only has 27 more stitches. Those extra stitches include some pretty patterns like flowers and vines that aren’t on the Brother machine. All of the basic stitches, though, for making clothes or doing machine quilting are included in both.
2. Size – The Brother PC 210 PRW weighs about 3 pounds more and is about 3 inches longer than the Singer 7258. It’s not that it’s overly large, it’s more that the Singer is a bit smaller than the average home sewing machine. If you’re wife’s machine is standard size and she doesn’t move it around a lot, she might find the PC 210 is similar in size to what she has now. When you shorten a machine, you lose “throat space” – that open area between the controls on the right and the needle. If she needs to be able to carry the machine around a lot or doesn’t work on large projects, the lighter machine could be a benefit.
3. Price – The Singer 7258 is almost half of the price of the Brother PC 210PRW.
In my mind, if price is a major factor, the Singer is the best bargain. If having as many stitches as possible is important, the Singer still wins. If you think your wife would prefer a machine of standard size and weight with the largest throat space possible, the Brother PC210 would be the better choice.
Hope that gives you some idea of which one would be best. Good luck!
Sincerely,
Erin
PS – Of course, you know she’s going to love the gesture no matter which one you get!
Erin,
Thanks for the feedback. I think I am leaning towards the Singer 7278. How does this compare to the Brother CS6000i – prices are about the same?
My wife is insistent on a machine that has a steel frame – and the singer has one.
Any other machine that I should take a look at? My wife is not a beginner and has skill on a good machine.
Mark
Mark – There are a few differences between the CS6000i and the Singer 7258:
Stitches – The Singer has 100 built in stitches although 23 of those are the mirror image of other stitches so there are really 77 unique stitch patterns as compared to 60 built in stitches on the CS6000i. Both have all the best utility stitches and quilting stitches. The CS6000i has one additional buttonhole style. The remaining differences are all decorative stitches (satin stitches, cross stitches, and pretty patterns like scrolls and vines).
Included presser feet – The CS6000i comes with 9 presser feet while the Singer 7258 comes with 8. They’re very different feet, too. The Brother CS6000i comes with two feet especially helpful for quilting and working with thick fabrics – probably two of the most often purchased presser feet (walking foot and quilting foot). The Singer 7258 does not come with those, although they can be purchased separately. The Singer 7258 comes with a rolled hem foot and a gathering foot for specialty seams.
Accessories – The Brother CS6000i comes with an extra wide extension table to provide a larger work surface and a hard cover. The 7258 does not include those items.
Size – The Brother CS6000i is lighter by almost 2 pounds but longer by almost 2 inches. This gives a little more work area next to the needle.
Other than that, the controls and automation are the same. Both have six point feed dogs for good fabric control, are computerized, and can be used for free-motion quilting, too.
One other machine to consider is this one: Brother CP-7500. It has everything the Brother CS6000i has plus 10 more stitches for a total of 70 and runs around the same price. It’s built on the same platform as the CS6000i (even uses the same manual) just an updated look.
Those are the three best machines between $100-200 with lots of features. After those three, my next recommendation would be a Janome model but you’d end up paying another $200 and she’d have far fewer stitches to work with.
Hope that helps!
Sincerely,
Erin
Erin,
You are making this search much easier. So the Brother 7500 or the Singer 7258 like the ones to choose from. I know the Singer has a steel frame what about the Brother 7500?
Mark
Mark – I’m 80% sure that the Brother CP 7500 does NOT have a steel frame. Here’s my fuzzy logic – I’m about 90% sure that the CS6000i does not have an all metal interior. Sales people at stores that sell Brother sewing machines often point out that the parts inside the CS6000i are inferior to those in their other machines because the CS6000i is built as an “online only” model. I have not talked to anyone at Brother about the CP 7500 to see if the same thing applies but my guess is that it does since the two machines are so similar.
Which would leave you back with the Singer 7258.
Sincerely,
Erin
Erin,
So I will go with the Singer and will get it from Target – so if any issues arise returning it will be easier.
We will keep you informed of how it works out.
Thanks for your help and your website.
Mark
Mark – Good plan and I’m sure your wife will be very pleased! Thank you for offering to come back and let us know how it goes. That will be very helpful to all future readers and very much appreciated.
Good luck!
Erin
Hi Erin,
I’m thinking of getting a good sewing machine for some home sewing and your review has been helpful to me. Anyway, I’m a bit stuck between singer 7258 and 7442. Could you help me make a good choice. Thanks so much.
Achiaa
Mya – If you compare the Singer 7258 and the 7442 side by side, everything would point to the 7258 being the better choice for a number of reasons. The 7258 has more stitches, more automation, and better consumer ratings. It’s been very well received on the market and includes a set of controls that are becoming increasingly popular on home sewing machines like speed control and the ability to move the needle up or down with the push of a button instead of having to use the hand wheel.
You didn’t describe the type of sewing you want to do but both machines are built to handle most home sewing needs including quilting. The additional decorative stitches in the 7258 allow for more creativity, though.
Let me know if you have other questions!
Sincerely,
Erin
Wow! thanks for the quick reply. Actually, I’m a beginner and have gotten myself a book on how to sew. I want to work on curtains, throws and pillows, dresses and do some quilting as well. I think I’ll go with the 7258 and will let you know how it fares with me.
Once again thanks for the quick reply. Thumbs up!
Achiaa
Hi Erin,
I was looking at Singer 7258 for occasional home sewing/alterations . I do mostly pants/denim, shirts, skirts, dresses, suits and some light overcoats. So, I use only the utility stitches and the buttonholes (no quilting or embroidery). I did not sew for a while, but now it looks like I have to alter many clothes that we buy, so I decided to buy a machine, but not an expensive one.
For me the 1 step buttonholes are the most important and I would like to ask you how are the buttonholes on the 7258 compared with other machines.
Could you help me choose the right machine?
Thank you very much.
Daniel – So sorry for the delay in responding. Any time that happens you can be assured it has something to do with my kids.
The buttonholes on the Singer 7258 are great. The buttonholer is easy to use and the quality is really nice. It puts out solid stitches. The price is excellent as are the reviews. It’s certainly equipped to handle the tasks you described and is a great choice.
The computerized controls are easy to use, too, and the free arm works well with pant legs and sleeves. Sounds like you’d be working on the typical clothing materials and this machine can handle a wide variety of materials.
There are a couple of Brother sewing machine models to which you could compare this one but both of those have more of the quilting accessories you wouldn’t need so this one sounds like a great choice.
Sincerely,
Erin
Hi, Im looking at the singer 7258 and was just wondering if it will take old style flat top thread? or do I have to get the new style cone top?
thanks!
What a wonderful review! I am shopping for my husband for Christmas. He is an amazing sewer. How would you complare the Singer 7256 Sewing Machine to the Brother XR7700? It has been hard for me to rate them side by side. My husband sometimes sews with thicker fabrics including leather so I want to make sure it is powerful enough for that.
Thanks so much for taking time to respond
Hi Erin,
Wow. Impressive. I have been intensively researching machines for a couple days now and am wondering why there is no mention of Kenmore machines either on your site or pretty much anywhere on the internet! I’m looking at a Kenmore/MD limited edition 17-stitch sewing machine, http://www.sears.ca/product/kenmore-md-limited-edition-17-stitch-sewing-machine/620-000018598-16765#BVQAWidgetID, and comparing it with this Singer 7258.
I like the features of the Singer but have to order it from the US (I’m in Canada), and wonder about the quality difference. I have just learned to use a machine, and plan to use it for alterations, making simple clothes and home decorating, repairing (sometimes heavy material), and costumes etc. Nothing fancy, and I doubt that quilting will EVER be something I want to do. I.e. I don’t think I need a million stitches but a walking foot might be nice for heavy/ vinyl fabrics. And I like the darning plate idea for repairs.
What do you have to say about Kenmores?
Thanks, and nice work on this site, it’s helped me a lot today!
Holly
Holly – The ONLY reason I don’t have more Kenmore material on this site is a lack of time.
I even built the brand into my little machine finding wizard tool on the front page so I could add them as I reviewed them but there were so many Brothers, Singers, and Janomes to get through that I just haven’t made it that far yet. However, the brand should be considered sufficiently comparable to Singer and Janome (Janome even makes some of the Kenmore models) so certainly consider one if you find a model you like at a location near you.
Thanks for the compliment and glad you liked the site!
Sincerely,
Erin
Hi Erin,
I have been looking at your website and I think you for the reviews on this site;it has helped me narrowed down my search. I am taking a beginner’s sewing class and need a machine. I was looking at the Singer 7258, the brother xr 7700 and the brother cs 6000i. I need it mostly for sewing and alterations maybe some mild decorating and embroidering in the future.
Thanks
Joules – There are a couple of differences between these 3 machines. Understanding a little about what each of these differences mean should help you further narrow down your choice.
First, all 3 machines have great performance ratings from users. The biggest difference has to do with the number of available stitches. The Singer 7258 has 100 stitches but this includes some that are simply the reverse of another stitch so there’s some duplication in that number. All of them have the general utility stitches anyone would need in a machine so you can take a look at the decorative stitches and see if there’s one set you like over the other.
Second, size is different between these machines with the two Brother models offering slightly more working space than the Singer 7258.
Third, the list of included presser feet is slightly different between the machines. However, presser feet can be purchased separately so if the machine you want doesn’t have a presser foot that you might need later, you can always buy it in the future and you haven’t lost out by choosing one machine over another.
The Brother XR7700 is really the CS6000i with 10 more stitches (just like the Brother CP7500).
Finally, price is different amongst these choices. The Brother XR7700 is on sale at Costco for $300 off through November 6th but requires a membership in order to take advantage of that discount. If that’s not the route you want to go, then I’d look at the Singer 7258, the Brother CS600i, and the Brother CP7500, narrow it down by looking at the stitches and the prices and make your choice from that set.
Let me know if you need more info!
Thanks,
Erin
Erin,
Thanks for the prompt reply. I do have a Costco membership and I saw their ad, I might go for for the Brother xr7700. The price is very reasonable, less than the cs6000.
Thank you again for you guidance
Erin,
Can you please tell me a little more about the Singer Brilliance vs the Brother XR 7700. I am not finding much info about the singer brilliance online.
thanks.
Joules – Now, both the Singer Brilliance and the Brother XR7700 are models that appear exclusive to Costco (although you can sometimes find one or the other on Amazon through 3rd party sellers). Singer and Brother will put out models for other retailers but they almost always are duplicates of other popular models that are widely available. It’s a marketing strategy and branding deal that helps the retailer offer a competitive product and allows the manufacturer to tap a specialized marketplace. When you come across a Costco model, you just have to find the doppleganger.
In this case, while the Singer Brilliance 6199 Sewing Machine looks similar to the Singer 7258 and has the same stitches, it actually shares a manual with the Singer 5500 Fashion Mate Sewing Machine with Hard-Sided Cover. The Brother XR7700 mirrors the Brother CP-7500.
In terms of reviews and ratings for the Singer Brilliance and the Singer FashionMate, the average seems to run around 3.5-4 stars. Most concerns seem to revolve around threading which is interesting since threading is the same on the 7258 and that machine has excellent ratings.
Looking at performance and features, the XR7700 has more than the Singer Brilliance. While it sounds like the Singer Brilliance has more built in stitches, the Brilliance includes the mirror images of some of some stitch patterns in the built in count so it’s a bit overstated. The true unique patterns on the Brilliance vs. the Brother XR7700 are very similar.
Both come with a wide extension table and hard cover. Both have the same feed dog power, drop in bobbin, automatic bobbin winding and presser foot pressure features. On the Brother you can drop the feed dogs. On the Singer, you use the provided feed dog cover plate to remove the feed dogs from the equation.
The main differences are that the Singer Brilliance comes with one extra presser foot. You can buy the comparable presser foot for the Brother XR7700 separately. The Brother XR7700 comes with the Start/Stop button, the needle up/down button, and the speed control slider – none of which come on the Singer option. These cannot be added to a machine later so if you want them (and I like them for beginners), the Brother has some very beginner-friendly options that also help when you get into more complicated sewing work.
That’s a lot of information to digest. Please don’t hesitate to ask more questions if you need additional clarification.
Sincerely,
Erin
shares a manual with the so reviews of the Singer 5500 might help you understand consumer response to the Singer Brilliance.
Hi Erin, what do you think about the frame. Would be the singer better then the brother. Thanks
Nice website Erin! After trolling the net and visiting a few shops, I’m wondering which machine has the cleanest repair record and which has nicer looking stitches: Janome 7318, 7330 or Singer 7258? Decorative stitches aren’t crucial, but I’m looking for smooth and consistent stitches. Also, I’m planning to work with leather and notice the Singer doesn’t include leather in your list of sewing types. Is this because the motor isn’t as strong as the others? How do the SPM and motors compare?
Thanks again,
Shell
Erin your website is FANTASTIC! I am definitely one of those people who over research any big purchase. Need to make sure I’m getting my moneys worth since money is so tight these days.
I’m torn between a few models and not sure which one is best. Singer 7258, 7467 confidence, Janome 8077, Janome DC1050.
Most seem to have some important features such as the computerized functions, automatic threading, up/down needle buttons, and various stitches.
I’m looking for something that is completely jam-proof, I’ve been sewing on an OLD White machine and it jams up on me during random times, sometimes in the middle of an item, and it completely messes up my garment, it has made me hate sewing sometimes. I sew on practically everything, mostly cotton, but I do fleece, padded insulation, several layers of fabric, and I will need something that is good for jeans as well, since I bought 2 pairs that fit me great but are too long and will need hemming. I’m 5’1 and 1/2 (that 1/2 is important LOL)and I wear anywhere between a 0 to a 1-2 and most jeans are WAY too long and now that I know how to sew, I should probably take advantage and hem my new Jeans.
On Amazon, these machines are not too far priced from each other, so I’m wondering which machine you would suggest. Or which one you would buy for yourself.
Thanks!
Hello Erin- I really love your site. How do we support it?
At any rate I am looking for your advice on a beginning sewing machine for my wife. I am considering the Brother CP7500, the brother 6500, the Brother XR7700 (on sale at Costco for about the same price) the Singer 7258 and the SQ 9000 (I think that’s the model)
As you can tell I need lots of help! I am not married to either of the above models and really need advice on either of these or any other machine you would suggest for me including the Janome machines I am hearing about. Price is not the biggest problem I just want to get her the best machine. She will be doing alterations, dress making mostly–not too much quilting as far as I know.
If you would not mind when you give your suggestions if you could rank your top three for our situation that would be helpful.
Hello Erin-
My question may be more generic, as I am not savvy on sewing, but it does relate to this specific model–
Thanks, this is a great site, and helped me decide on getting a Singer 7258 for my girlfriend for Christmas
It says that the 7258 uses Class 15J bobbins. In bobbinworld, does that mean that you must use them? They seem harder to come by than the regular Class 15 standard bobbins. I’m a computer guy so I always assume specifics are specifics for a reason, so – what happens if you try to load a regular non-J bobbin? Would it fit, but then jam or somehow damage the machine, or give improper sewing results? The reason I ask is one of my friends got her a set of notions and included are the standard 15′s. Is there any harm in using these, or should I warn her against it?
Most of the negative reviews (of which there were only few) on Amazon talked about the bobbins bunching up and creating some kind of mess of thread, and somehow damaging the tension. Do you think this a related issue? Thanks for your wisdom
Hey Erin- I was wondering what you would suggest for a high school student that has done everything from alterations in clothing in dramas and other clothing, to relineing a backpack with demi and making other random things from out of scrapes for clothing, bags, as gifts, blankets or quilts all by hand. Now this students is looking into getting a sewing machine because she is having a hard time finding pants with a small enough waste and she also having problems finding dresses for school events that she has to dress up for because is she so small.
Hi!!!
I am a complete and total newbie to sewing. I don’t know what any parts are called, what they do or anything about stitches, bobbins or free arms but as I prepare to have my first baby in May I want to learn it all!!! I am curious about what would be a good beginner into intermediate sewing machine mainly for baby clothes, crib sheets, bumpers for the crib and a few other fun things for baby as well as some household items like a duvet or quilt or pillowcases. I have been reading about and researching the Singer 7258 and it looks like what I need but I’m really not sure!
Help please!!!!!
Thank you so much!
Christine