singer 8280 review

Singer 8280 Review: Basic Machine to Bring Your “A” Sewing Game

Singer 8280 sewing machine is a basic machine that’s perfect for simple sewing projects. Although not a sophisticated machinery, it includes the main features and some advanced functionalities to spice up your sewing experience. But let’s jump into details so you can decide whether or not it’s right for you. 

Do you have a particular question about Singer 8280? Then use the table of contents below to jump to the most relevant section. And you can always go back by clicking on the arrow in the right bottom corner of the page. Also, please note that some of the links in this article may be affiliate links. For more details, check the Disclosure section at the bottom of the page. 

Singer 8280 review 

Either you’re a beginner or professional, surprisingly, Singer 8280 will help you bring your A-game to sewing. It’s super easy to use because it doesn’t contain numerous fancy features you may never need. But with what you have, you can sew a variety of projects using different kinds of stitches. This model is also easy to maintain. As long as you dust and oil it regularly, you’ll be fine.

Maybe it doesn’t come with hundreds of stitches of the more expensive machine – it only features 8 – but those are good and basic. To be fair, these are enough for practically any project. 

Furthermore, it features a free arm for cuffs and sleeves, making it way easier to complete your projects. Other accessories that come with this machine include a general button foot, buttonhole foot, oil feeder, stitch guide, feed cover, instruction manual, etc. Its long-lasting lifetime bulb (100,000 hours) stays cool no matter how long the machine operates.

Like many other machines, it has something to learn. The biggest potential pet peeve of Singer 8280 is probably threading. It has to be done correctly. If not, it can cause bobbin jamming, which can be frustrating. Luckily, it’s super easy to thread, unlike some other machines. If you’re a beginner, the instruction manual is very explanatory. It will help you figure out threading and other features before you get started. It’s also crystal clear on how to troubleshoot problems you might encounter.

Last thing to note that this machine is not well-suited for thicker threads and heavier materials. But suppose you’re interested in making lightweight dresses, jeans, curtains, duvet covers, pillowcases, and more. In that case, Singer 8280 is a great choice.

Main features

  • 8 built-in stitches, more than 30 stitch applications
  • Automatic 4-step buttonhole
  • Quick and easy threading
  • Heavy-duty metal frame
  • Adjustable presser foot pressure
  • Built-in accessory storage
  • Free arm
  • Four snap-on presser feet
  • Automatic reverse button for securing stitches
  • 12.98 pounds

Singer 8280. SYS rating, pros, and cons

singer 8280 pros and cons

Singer 8280 manual 

You can download the full manual here.

Video guidelines

Singer 8280. FAQ and Troubleshooting

How to thread Singer 8280?

Does it sew through leather and jeans? 

You can adjust the sewing foot on Singer 8280 for sewing fabrics of various thicknesses (and don’t forget to use the right thread, needles, and tension setting). This machine will handle occasional use for a double layer of lightweight denim. But it’s not its forte. 

Singer 8280 accessories 

This little machine comes with a surprisingly robust list of accessories. Most importantly, with four extra feet: general-purpose, buttonhole, button sewing, and zipper.  You will also get some more basic sewing accessories with your purchase. The list includes an oil bottle, seam ripper,  screwdriver, spool caps, needles, bobbins, various manuals, guides, etc.  

Is Singer 8280 really a good one? Our verdict 

Singer 8280 is a good and basic “mechanical machine” (no digital enhancement). If what you want is an essential machine for household sewing and repairs, this is a great fit.

The Singer 8230 is lightweight and portable. For a machine its size, it offers quite many options that’ll make your experience fun and varied. It’s also beginner-friendly. With the instruction manual and series on online tutorials, you can figure out any issue you might encounter.

If simplicity is your endgame, then you’ll hit the jackpot with Singer 8280.

Credits: photos by Canva

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