Singer Simple 2263: Lightweight and Compact Machine with Basic Features
The name of this machine speaks for itself—the Singer Simple 2263 is designed with simplicity in mind. It has 23 built-in stitches that will meet most household sewing needs (there are even some decorative stitches) and is available at a reasonable price.
Dimensions
The machine weighs 12.8 pounds, so it's lightweight to move it from place to place (besides, it has a carrying handle). Such a weight also allows for skip-free sewing. The size is 15 x 7 x 12 inches, so it's pleasantly compact and portable.
Features
The Singer Simple 2263 has an automatic 4-step buttonhole that allows adjusting the buttonhole size. You can regulate the stitch length (up to 4 mm) and width (up to 5 mm). All the dials turn smoothly and easily. The quality of stitches is consistent. The needle position can be changed as well.
The model can sew at 800 SPM. The speed may be easily controlled thanks to the sensitive foot controller. The machine has a free arm (just remove the storage compartment) that appears to be handy for hemming and sewing in hard-to-reach areas like cuffs and collars. Reverse stitching allows you to reinforce stitches.
The Singer Simple sewing machine 2263 has a built-in automatic needle threader, but, unfortunately, it has a front loading instead of a top loading one which is uncommon in modern sewing machines since it's less convenient. That is why it surprised me a lot; all the similar to the 2263 machines from Brother that I have tested before have a top-loading bobbin (like the Brother GX37, for example). Continuing on the drawbacks, the needle may jam from time to time. Moreover, a hemming stitch is not available in this machine. It's also not durable enough to work with many layers of fabric as well as with thick materials, even if you use robust, high-quality needles.
All-purpose, buttonhole, and button sewing feet are included with the Singer Simple 2263 sewing machine. In the box, you will also find a spool cap, bobbins, needles of different sizes, a seam ripper, a lint brush, a darning plate, and a screwdriver. Singer also has made a lot of educational videos that explain how to use each feature of the 2263. They are available on Singer's official channel on YouTube.
The machine has a few flaws that affect its overall convenience and performance; but, for the price, it's a worthy option. So, in this Singer Simple 2263 review, it gets a score of 8/10.
Design
The machine is well-built, with a metal frame and white high-quality plastic case. It's stable and doesn't vibrate during sewing. The stitch width dial and thread tension dials are located on the top of the machine. The stitch length dial and stitch selection dial are on the front panel. The sewing area is illuminated by an LED lamp. There is also an inbuilt storage compartment where you can keep the included accessories.
As for the machine with mechanical controls, it has a user-friendly design. So, I give the design a 9 out of 10 rating.
Conclusion
Beginners and modest sewing projects can benefit from the Singer Simple 23-stitch sewing machine 2263. It has 23 built-in stitches to work with many projects. However, the lack of a hemming stitch and a front loading bobbin seems to be a disappointment. In addition, it's also not designed to work with heavy fabrics and multiple layers.