Singer Simple 3232 Sewing Machine Review

The Singer Simple 3232 is an affordable, lightweight mechanical sewing machine perfect for beginners and hobby sewers. With user-friendly features like automatic needle threading and easy stitch selection, the Singer 3232 simplifies the sewing process. Though limited in advanced capabilities, its practical design, portability, and low price point make it ideal for basic mending and projects.

In this in-depth Singer Simple 3232 review, we’ll take a close look at the key features, performance, ease of use, accessories, pros and cons, and other details to help you determine if it’s the right fit for your needs. Whether you’re buying your first sewing machine or want a secondary, portable model, read on for what you need to know about the Singer Simple 3232!

Overview of the Singer Brand

Singer has been a leading name in sewing for over 160 years. The brand was founded in 1851 by Isaac Merritt Singer and Edward Clark, launching the first practical, mass-production sewing machine for home use.

Over the decades, Singer has introduced many groundbreaking innovations that revolutionized home sewing. These include the first electronic sewing machine in 1961 and the world’s first computer-controlled home sewing machine in 1989.

Today, Singer continues to produce high-quality sewing machines for all skill levels. From beginner machines like the Simple 3232 to advanced computerized models, Singer aims to make sewing accessible, fun, and rewarding for all.

The company also provides excellent training resources like online classes and videos to help you get the most out of your Singer sewing machine. With decades of experience behind it, Singer remains a trusted brand worldwide.

Introducing the Singer Simple 3232

The Singer Simple 3232 sewing machine lives up to its name as a straightforward, uncomplicated model ideal for beginners. Priced affordably at around $100-$150, it skips the bells and whistles to deliver excellent basic performance.

The lightweight plastic construction and built-in carry handle maximize portability. Though made for simplicity, the Singer 3232 includes handy features like an automatic needle threader, top drop-in bobbin, adjustable stitch length and width, and 32 built-in stitches.

While the Singer Simple 3232 won’t meet the needs of advanced sewers, its easy stitch selection, free arm, and 750 stitches-per-minute speed are perfect for introductory garment construction, mending, and craft projects. Keep reading our review for the full rundown on this user-friendly sewing machine!

Suggested placement of comparison image of different Singer sewing machine models

Key Features and Benefits of the Singer Simple 3232

Before diving into the specifics, here is an overview of the standout features and advantages of the Singer Simple 3232:

Lightweight and portable – Weighing just 12.6 pounds, the Singer 3232 is easily carried using the built-in handle. Perfect for transporting to classes or sewing on-the-go.
User-friendly for beginners – From threading to stitch selection, the Singer 3232 is designed for simplicity and ease of use, even for new sewists.
32 built-in stitches – Includes 6 essential stitches, 19 decorative stitches, and 1 four-step buttonhole for basic to intermediate projects.
Automatic needle threader – Threads the eye of the needle instantly with the push of a lever for frustration-free setup.
Adjustable stitch length and width – Customize your stitches from 0mm-4mm wide and 0mm-4mm long for versatility.
750 stitches per minute – Work efficiently at the max sewing speed of 750 SPM on all types of fabrics.
High presser foot lift – Raises the presser foot to an extra high position to accommodate thick seams and fabrics.
Free arm – Slide off the removable accessory box for free arm sewing of sleeves, pant legs, and other cylindrical items.
Accessories included – Comes with 4 presser feet, seam ripper, screwdriver, bobbins, instructional DVD and manual, and more.
25-year limited warranty – Provides decades of sewing machine head coverage for peace of mind.

Now that you’ve seen an overview, let’s take a more detailed look at each of the main features of the Singer 3232 sewing machine.

Lightweight and Portable Design

One of the standout qualities of the Singer Simple 3232 is its lightweight, portable construction. Weighing just 12.6 pounds, it’s easy to carry and transport using the built-in handle on the top.

This makes the Singer 3232 a convenient machine to take to sewing classes, on trips, or move around your home. The plastic body helps keep the weight down versus an all-metal design.

Many owners love that they can lift and maneuver this sewing machine with minimal effort. Whether using it at a desk or table, or setting it up temporarily to work on a project, the Singer Simple 3232 provides versatility.

Its compact footprint also saves space in tight sewing rooms or smaller homes. If you’ll need to stow your machine out of sight frequently, the Singer 3232 makes storage under a bed or in a closet easier.

Suggested image of Singer 3232 being carried by the handle

Designed for Sewing Beginners

Ease of use is where the Singer Simple 3232 really shines. This sewing machine is designed specifically with beginners in mind to deliver frustration-free operation right out of the box.

From initial setup to selecting stitches and adjustments, the Singer 3232 keeps things straightforward. Handy labeling, dials, and automatically features also prevent the guesswork for new sewers.

Here are some examples that showcase the user-friendly design of the Singer Simple 3232:

Automatic needle threader – No more squinting and struggling! The built-in threader passes the thread through the needle eye instantly.
Easy stitch selection – Simply turn the dial to choose from 32 different stitches, labeled right on the machine.
Pre-set stitch length and width – Eliminates having to manually adjust settings for each stitch you select.
Reverse sewing lever – Sew in reverse with a quick press of the lever to secure stitches.
Free arm – Effortlessly slide off the accessory box to access cylindrical areas like sleeves or pant legs.

Between its simplicity, handy automatic features, and built-in reference guides, the Singer 3232 helps beginners achieve beautiful results without frustration. Many owners report they were creating projects within minutes of getting their machine threaded and ready to go!

32 Built-In Stitches

Despite the affordable price and focus on simplicity, the Singer Simple 3232 provides a solid variety of built-in stitches to choose from.

You get a selection of 32 total stitches, including:

6 Essential Stitches – The basic stitches like straight, zigzag, and shell stitch for everyday sewing needs.
19 Decorative Stitches – Add flair with the decorative stitches like scallops, vines, hearts and more.
6 Stretch Stitches – Sew knits and stretchy fabrics with the overcasting and elastic stitches.
1 Four-Step Buttonhole – Automated buttonhole function sews perfectly sized buttonholes for you.

Having 32 stitches at your disposal is impressive for a basic sewing machine like the Singer 3232. You’ll have options for sewing wovens and knits, finishing edges, constructing buttonholes, embellishing projects, and more.

The stitch selection isn’t computerized, so you simply turn the dial to choose the number corresponding to your desired stitch. Helpful icons next to each number help identify the stitch type.

Whether making simple repairs, sewing straight seams, or adding decorative accents, the 32 built-in stitches provide room to get creative with the Singer 3232!

Suggested image showing the stitch selection dial

Automatic Needle Threader

If your least favorite part about sewing is struggling to thread the eye of the needle, you’ll love the automatic threader on the Singer Simple 3232!

Threading a needle manually requires excellent vision and dexterity. The process can be especially difficult for beginners who are still mastering hand-eye coordination.

That’s where the Singer 3232’s automatic needle threader saves the day. Simply follow a few steps:

Raise the needle to its highest position.
Pull down the threader lever located on the side of the machine head.
Draw your thread through the guide and under the hook.
Let the lever go and the threader pushes the thread right through the needle eye!

Threading the needle suddenly takes seconds instead of minutes of frustration. You’ll be ready to sew quicker with no worn out eyes or frayed nerves.

Many owners say the automatic needle threader is one of their favorite features on this user-friendly sewing machine. It eliminates hassle and tedium from the sewing process.

Suggested video showing the automatic needle threader in action

Adjustable Stitch Length and Width

While designed for simplicity, the Singer Simple 3232 does provide adjustable stitch length and width controls. This allows you to customize the fit and appearance of each stitch.

The stitch length dial sets how long or short the stitch will be, with options ranging from 0mm to 4mm. Shortening stitch length gives you tighter, finer stitches. Lengthening makes stitches looser for more flexibility and elasticity.

The stitch width dial determines how narrow or wide your stitch will be, with settings from 0mm to 5mm. Narrow settings work best for seams and embroidery. Wider options create bolder top stitches and prevent fabric puckering.

Having full control over these settings helps you adapt stitches for any type of fabric or sewing technique. For example:

Short, narrow stitches for delicate fabrics
Long, wide stitches for basting and gathering
Adjusting zigzag width for neat overcasting on knits

Don’t worry about constantly having to configure settings as a beginner though. The Singer 3232 comes pre-programmed with recommended settings for each of the 32 stitches. Simply select your stitch and you’re ready to sew!

Image showing the stitch length and width dials

750 Stitches Per Minute Speed

Sewing efficiently is important when working on large projects or sewing long seams. The Singer Simple 3232 delivers ample speed for most general sewing tasks.

At 750 stitches per minute maximum, you can sail through straight seams, hemming, crafts, and more. While industrial machines easily exceed 1,000+ SPM, 750 is sufficient for maintaining rhythm and avoiding fatigue.

Sewing at high speeds with control simply takes practice. As a beginner, you’ll likely sew closer to 400-600 SPM until your dexterity improves. Luckily the Singer 3232 provides a foot pedal to gradually regulate speed as desired.

If sewing lightweight cottons or silks, you can press the pedal to full speed to finish seams faster. Slow it back down when maneuvering corners or sewing thick denim requiring more strength.

Having a 750 SPM maximum gives you room to grow your speed and skills over time. You won’t have to upgrade anytime soon just for a faster sewing machine!

High Presser Foot Lift

The presser foot on sewing machines lowers down onto fabric to keep it flat and prevent puckering as you sew. The Singer Simple 3232 provides an extra high presser foot lift to easily accommodate thick or layered fabrics.

Rather than a basic single-height presser foot, the Singer 3232 has high and low positions. At its highest lift, there’s plenty of clearance to slide heavy quilt sandwiches, denim hems, craft foam, and other bulky materials underneath.

The high lift position is also essential if you’ll be sewing varying fabric widths. There’s nothing more annoying than having to stop and manually raise the presser foot every time you sew across a seam.

With the Singer 3232, simply push the presser foot lift lever to its highest position. The foot will then raise fully automatically each time your press the foot control to stop sewing.

Being able to go from sheer, delicate fabrics to multiple denim layers will certainly come in handy for sewing and mending mixed fabrics. You’ll appreciate the versatility as your skills grow!

Image showing presser foot lift levels

Free Arm for sleeves and Cuffs

Another handy feature on the Singer Simple 3232 is the detachable accessory storage box that reveals a free arm. As a beginner, you may not immediately realize the benefits of a free arm. But you’ll soon find it indispensable!

The free arm is essential for free-motion stitching, attaching cuffs and collars, hemming trousers, and sewing small circumferences where you can’t fit the full machine.

To use the free arm, simply slide off the plastic accessory box. This exposes the metal free arm for looping sleeves, pant legs, craft tubes, doll clothes, and other cylindrical items over.

Having the work travel around the feed dogs and under the presser foot gives you the freedom to maneuver the material 360 degrees. Trying to sew a sleeve flat would be virtually impossible!

The free arm also brings the presser foot heel nice and close to the needle. This lets you precisely topstitch collars, follow curves, and sew small areas where space is limited.

Once you’re done with the free arm, just snap the accessory box back on. It’s that quick and easy!

Suggested video showing free arm sewing

Included Accessories

The Singer Simple 3232 provides all the key accessories you need to get sewing right out of the box:

4 Presser Feet – The all-purpose foot comes attached. Also included is a buttonhole foot, zipper foot, and button sewing foot.
Seam Ripper/Lint Brush – For quickly removing basting stitches and fuzz balls.
Class 15 Bobbins – Compatible top-loading plastic bobbins to hold your thread.
Needles – Singer brand needles for sewing a variety of fabric types.
Screwdriver – Provides easy access to the interior for changing needles, cleaning, and maintenance.
Thread Spool Caps – The caps hold thread securely on the spool pin.
Introductory DVD – Provides video instructions on how to thread, insert the bobbin, select stitches, and operate your machine.
Instruction Manual – Includes threading diagrams, stitch selection guide, troubleshooting tips, and basic machine maintenance.
Soft Dust Cover – Protects from dust and lint when your machine is stored.

Having multiple presser feet gives you versatility for installing zippers, adding buttons, and making buttonholes accurately. The dust cover, bobbins, needles, brush, and ripper provide the essential extras for maintaining your machine.

Between the included DVD and manual, you’ll have both visual and written guidance handy. The accessories and guides help fast-track your learning, so you can spend more time sewing!

25 Year Limited Manufacturer’s Warranty

Any sewing machine purchase represents a long-term investment. With proper care and routine maintenance, a quality machine should easily last you decades.

The Singer Simple 3232 sewing machine comes with a 25 year limited warranty from the manufacturer covering workmanship and defects. This warranty only applies to the original owner.

Here’s how the 25 years are broken down:

25 Years – Limited warranty covers the sewing machine head.
5 Years – Limited warranty on electronic components, light assembly, wiring, speed control, switches, and motors.
1 Year – Limited warranty on belts, bulbs, accessories, attachments, and adjustments.

Keep your receipt or proof of purchase, as you’ll need it if you ever need to make a warranty claim. Having over two decades of coverage on the machine head provides wonderful peace of mind.

Singer also has an extensive service center network that can provide maintenance and repair work if you need it after the warranty expires. With proper upkeep and care, your Singer Simple 3232 can keep sewing for many years!

Suggested image of Singer warranty terms

Sewing Performance of the Singer Simple 3232

Now that we’ve covered the main features and parts of the Singer Simple 3232, how does it actually perform when put to work? Let’s take a look at the sewing experience and how the machine handles a variety of fabrics and techniques:

Sews Lightweight to Medium Fabrics Well

The Singer Simple 3232 is intended mainly for lightweight woven fabrics like quilting cottons, lightweight denim, shirting fabrics, linens, and more.

Between the 750 SPM speed and 32 stitches, you can easily construct garments, crafts, home decor items, and everyday mending using these fabric types. The included presser feet also make installing zippers and buttons smooth and uncomplicated.

While not made for heavy duty material, the Singer 3232 can handle multiple layers of denim when sewing slowly. Just be sure to use the proper denim needle so the layers don’t deflect the needle. Maintaining sharp needles is also essential.

In terms of stitch quality, most owners find the Singer Simple 3232 provides nice, even stitches when threaded and adjusted correctly. Maintaining consistent thread tension and using quality thread will help achieve great looking seams.

Choosing shorter stitch lengths around 2mm-2.5mm helps the 3232 sew very precisely. Lengthening stitches tends to lower stitch quality slightly on inexpensive machines like this one. But you can simply shorten stitches where perfectionism is required!

Handles Basic Stitch Types with Ease

As you’d expect on a basic sewing machine, the Singer Simple 3232 excels at essential stitch types like:

Straight Stitch – Set stitch length between 2-2.5 mm for smooth seams. Engage reverse to secure stitching.
Zigzag – Adjust width and length for sewing appliqués, adding stretch, finishing seams, and overcasting fabric edges.
Buttonhole – Programmed with four-step buttonhole foot to sew uniform buttonholes auto-matically in a few easy steps.

Blind Hem – Expertly conceals hems on curtains, trousers, and other projects. Takes practice to perfect feed and positioning.
Shell Edging – Adds a pretty finish along fabric edges or seams. Ideal for decorative embellishment.
Elastic/Smocking – Gathers and stretches fabric for ruffles, smocking on children’s clothes, etc.

You’ll find yourself frequently relying on these utilitarian stitches for most sewing tasks. The Singer 3232 makes them easy to select and adjust as needed for quality results.

With the addition of decorative stitches, you can also add extra flair to projects. Use them to accent clothing, gifts, accessories, crafts, and more. The scallop, leaf, vines, and other patterns add visual interest while securing the material.

It just takes some experimentation with settings and techniques to master each stitch type. The instruction manual provides some guidance on recommended settings and uses for the various stitches.

Handle Multiple Layers with Care

While designed for lighter materials, the Singer Simple 3232 can work through several layers of denim, quilt sandwichs, and other heavier fabrics when needed.

The key is to sew slowly and carefully. Using the proper needle for thick fabrics is also essential – choose a Singer brand jeans needle in size 16 for multiple layers of denim. Maintain a leisurely but consistent speed to allow the motor to pierce the layers without deflecting the needle.

For quilting, a Microtex sharp needle will easily slice through quilt sandwichs up to about an inch thick. Piece quilting squares at full speed, then slow down for stitching through attaching seams. Getting through dense sections just takes patience.

Keep in mind that while possible, frequently sewing very heavy fabrics may strain the motor over time. Only push the Singer 3232 to its limits occasionally unless prepared to have maintenance done sooner.

Check your owner’s manual for recommendations on needle types and weights for different fabric thicknesses. The Singer 3232 can handle the occasional denim or quilting project, but it’s best suited for medium materials day-to-day.

Handles Free-Motion Stitching

While not designed for heavy free-motion work, the Singer Simple 3232 provides decent ability for basic free-motion sewing and stippling small quilt projects.

To prepare for free-motion with the Singer 3232:

Lower or remove the feed dogs by flipping the switch at the back of the free arm. This prevents fabric from feeding.
Attach the darning/embroidery foot, designed to hover over the feed dogs smoothly.
Drop the feed dogs and begin stitching freehand to create your design.
Raise the feed dogs when finished to resume regular sewing.

Go slowly, moving the hoop or fabric to create organic designs with straight, zigzag, and other stitch types. Maintaining speed control is crucial for good technique.

You likely won’t want to use the Singer 3232 for large free-motion quilting projects. The foot height isn’t optimized for thick battings. But overall, it provides decent capability for small free-motion endeavors.

Suggested video showing how to drop the feed dogs for free motion quilting

Performs Well for Simple Crafting

Beyond apparel, the Singer Simple 3232 works great for everyday crafting using fabrics like felt, cotton, fleece, linen, and more.

You can add embellishments with the decorative stitches to personalize gifts, accessories, children’s items, home decor pieces, and so much more. Test different stitches and settings on fabric scraps first to get the desired look.

The 3232 makes swift work of projects like:

Placemats and table runners
Quilted coasters, trivets, and mug rugs
Stuffed animals and dolls
Tote bags, zip pouches, and cases
Appliquéd pillows and blankets
Halloween costumes and cosplay apparel

With an adjustable zigzag stitch, you can satin stitch felt cut-out appliqués or raw fabric edges for a professional finish. The presser feet provide accuracy when installing closures like zippers or buttons.

Let your creativity run wild! The Singer 3232 won’t limit the types of small crafts and accents you can make to brighten up your home and wardrobe or gift to loved ones.

Ease of Use

One of the top selling points of the Singer Simple 3232 is how effortless it is to set up, thread, select stitches, and operate even for complete beginners. Let’s look at some specifics:

Threader Makes Threading a Breeze

We’ve already touched on the built-in automatic needle threader that helps easily draw thread through the eye of the needle. But the Singer 3232 also makes the entire threading process smooth sailing.

Numbered guides printed right on the machine show the path to follow. Thread the spool pin, bring thread down through the take-up lever, then through the threading guide before pulling the lever of the automatic threader.

Within seconds, your machine and needle will be fully threaded and ready to start sewing! It’s so straightforward to thread, most beginners can have the machine prepped for action in just a minute or two.

The process is second nature after just a few uses. No more squinting, fumbling, or frustration. Let the threader do the tough part for you!

Effortless Stitch Selection

Choosing your desired stitch on the Singer Simple 3232 takes mere seconds. Simply turn the stitch mode dial to the number of the stitch you want. Helpful icons show if you’ve selected a stretch stitch, buttonhole, and more.

With each dial turn, the stitch length and width automatically adjust to defaults for that particular stitch. You don’t have to reconfigure settings every time unless you want a length or width outside the normal range.

This simplicity allows you to change stitches on the fly if needed. Sewing a straight seam? Select stitch 01. Want a zigzag finish on the edge? Rotate to stitch 08. Inserting a zipper? Choose stitch 09.

The process is natural enough you’ll soon memorize where your favorite stitches are located. Choosing the right stitch for your fabric and task becomes second nature.

It may be basic, but the tactile process of selecting stitches dial will satisfy those who appreciate mechanical simplicity over digital screens.

Clear Reference Tools for Guidance

Learning any new skill comes with a learning curve. To help you get up to speed, Singer provides useful onboard reference tools:

Stitch Reference Panel – Lists the 32 stitch options along with guides like fabric type, presser foot, and stitch width/length recommendations.
Patterned Bobbin Cover – Matches the stitch icons on the stitch reference guide for easier identification.
**Numbered Needle Plate – Displays numbered thickness lines so you can easily guide fabric while sewing precise seams.

Together, these handy visual aids take the guesswork out of everything from stitch selection to fabric alignment. They provide at-a-glance guidance when learning the ropes of your new machine.

You’ll still want to practice and experiment, but having crucial references directly on the Singer 3232 makes a world of difference. Over time you can refer to them less as skills become ingrained.

Drawbacks to Consider

While the Singer Simple 3232 provides excellent value in a basic sewing machine, there are a few potential drawbacks to consider:

Made of Plastic so Durability Varies

Given this machine’s affordable price point, Singer uses plastic for the body construction. This does help keep it lightweight. However plastic is not as durable as a heavy duty metal frame.

In some cases, owners have reported issues like cracking plastic after a couple years of use. Plastic gears may also wear out over time. Proper maintenance and avoiding straining the motor can help maximize longevity.

For the low price, occasional repairs may be worth it. Just don’t expect a plastic machine to have the 30+ year lifespan of an all-metal vintage Singer. Treat the 3232 as a budget-friendly secondary machine instead of a lifelong heirloom.

Can Get Noisy Over Time

Initially, the Singer Simple 3232 operates nice and quietly – especially compared to industrial machines! However plastic internal components may become noisier over time.

Inexpensive machines often sacrifice noise reduction features to keep costs down. So increased vibration and sounds are not uncommon after a year or two.

One way to dampen noise is to set the 3232 on a sewing machine mat. The spongy rubber absorbs vibrations and muffles the hum of the motor. Keeping your machine properly oiled and maintained will also help reduce unnecessary sounds.

While not deafening, some sewists find the Singer 3232 distractingly loud. If you’ll primarily be using the machine in a small or shared space, it’s something to keep in mind.

Limited Automatic Features

The focus with the Singer Simple 3232 is on mechanical simplicity. So you won’t find a plethora of automatic, computerized features like on advanced models. Once set up, it relies on your manual operation.

Here are some examples of automatic functions that would be nice bonuses but aren’t included:

Automatic thread cutter
Automatic presser foot pressure
Sensor system to alert improper threading
Adjustable sewing speed with foot control
Programmed button stitching
Start/stop button

Beginners likely won’t miss these auto features immediately. But down the road, you may want a machine with more computerized convenience.

The trade-off for the 3232’s affordability is dependence on mechanical dials and manual adjustment. If craving more push-button functions, consider a pricier computerized Singer model.

Suggested image showing computerized model for comparison

Accessories Prone to Wear

With consistent use over time, it’s common for some included accessories to wear out or break on the Singer Simple 3232.

The main accessories made of plastic that may need periodic replacing include:

Bobbins – Eventually crack or warp. Always use Singer brand replacements.
Presser Feet – Can bend or snap if hit by the needle accidentally.
Screwdriver – Losing proper grip over time. Replace if slipping.
Buttonhole Foot – Delicate parts that control sizing may stop working correctly.

Check accessories frequently for damage, and replace immediately with Singer OEM parts. While frustrating, replacing the cheap plastic accessories every few years isn’t unreasonable for the low machine price. Just budget some extra funds for occasional replacements.

Proper care and avoiding throwing or dropping accessories will maximize their lifespan. Handle them gently, and store safely when not in use.

Final Verdict on the Singer Simple 3232

So where does that leave us with the Singer Simple 3232? Here is a quick summary:

The Singer 3232 is best suited for:

Complete beginners wanting their first sewing machine
Occasional sewers doing basic mending and projects
A secondary portable machine for classes or travel
Making children’s clothes and craft items
Sewists on a strict budget

The Singer 3232 may not meet the needs of:

Serious sewists doing high volume or advanced work
Quilters working with large projects or thick battings
Clothing makers sewing exclusively knits and stretch fabrics
Anyone wanting lots of built-in stitches and automation

Overall, the Singer Simple 3232 accomplishes exactly what it sets out to do. It removes intimidation factors for beginners and provides a serviceable machine for basic everyday sewing tasks.

While it won’t grow with you skills-wise forever, it provides a solid foundation for learning sewing machine operation, maintenance, and project construction. The budget price and lightweight design maximize approachability.

For intermediate to advanced sewists, the plastic construction and lack of features likely make the Singer 3232 unsuitable as a primary machine. However it can still be useful as an inexpensive portable option when your main machine is occupied or unavailable.

Given proper care and routine maintenance, the Singer Simple 3232 should provide years of enjoyable hassle-free sewing. Needle mastery and tension balancing will always be critical for quality results. But with a bit of practice, you’ll be creating projects in no time on this easy-going mechanical machine.

Whether you’re looking to finally try sewing yourself or equip a beginner you love with their first machine, the user-friendly Singer 3232 is a prime candidate that won’t break the bank.

Check out the Singer Simple 3232 here!