SINGER FASHION MATE 3342 | REVIEW BY SEWNSCISSORS

In this article, I’ll discuss the SINGER Fashion Mate 3342, a sewing machine that combines user-friendly features with robust performance to cater to a wide range of sewing needs. I’ll explore its key functionalities, including its extensive stitch options, automatic needle threader, and efficient top drop-in bobbin system. 

For anyone passionate about sewing and crafting, the SINGER Fashion Mate 3342 is the perfect companion. Join me as you delve into the capabilities of the Fashion Mate 3342 and discover how it can enhance your sewing experience.

Singer 3342 Fashion Mate | Unbiased Review

I went to visit one of our sewing team members’ homes last week, Sarah’s. I was greeted by many exquisite fashion items and home decor that adorned every nook and cranny. There were beautifully tailored curtains, intricately embroidered pillow covers, and even a few stylish dresses that were elegantly displayed.

I couldn’t contain my curiosity, so I asked Sarah how she created these marvels, and she led me to her crafting corner, where the Singer Fashion Mate 3342 sat proudly. “This little wonder,” Sarah said, patting the machine, “is my secret weapon. With its 110 stitch applications, and 32 built in stitches, with adjustable length and width, and a sewing speed of 750 SPM, I can bring any idea to life.”

This machine does it all with ease, whether it’s stitching gorgeous home décor or creating unique gifts. It’s an invitation to creativity and limitless possibilities, not just a sewing machine.”
As Sarah talked about her love of sewing and the Singer Fashion Mate 3342’s versatility, I couldn’t help but think of all the projects I could start. This device is a need for every craft enthusiast because it appears to be the ideal fusion of creativity and functionality.

Therefore, in this article, you’ll delve into the depth of the features of this stunning 3342 singer sewing machine, that has made life easier for sewing and it would be a wonderful addition to your shelves also.

Features:

Stitch Applications

The SINGER Fashion Mate 3342 boasts 110 stitch applications, offering a versatile range of options to suit various sewing projects. From basic straight stitches to intricate decorative ones, you have the flexibility to customize your stitching for crafts, home decor, and fashion projects.

Presser Feet

Included with the machine are five presser feet that expand its capabilities:

• General Purpose Foot: Perfect for most of your sewing needs, from straight stitches to zigzag patterns.
• Buttonhole Foot: Simplifies the creation of buttonholes, ensuring uniform and professional results.
• Button Sewing Foot: Specifically designed to attach buttons securely.
• Zipper Foot: Allows you to sew close to the edges of zippers and piping.
• SINGER Sew Easy Foot: This bonus accessory helps you sew perfectly straight seams with ease.

Drop & Sew Bobbin System

The Fast Drop & Sew bobbin placement feature streamlines the bobbin insertion process. Simply drop the bobbin in, and you’re ready to sew without having to draw up the bobbin thread manually.

Stitch Selection Dial

Selecting a stitch is made easy with the simple turn of a dial. Just choose your desired stitch and start sewing, making it convenient even for beginners.

Bobbin Type

The machine uses SINGER Class 15 Transparent bobbins, which allow you to see how much thread is left, preventing unexpected thread shortages during your sewing projects.

Versatile Stitch Options

With 110 different stitch applications, you can experiment with a wide variety of stitch types, all with adjustable length and width. This means you can customize your stitches to fit your project perfectly, whether you’re creating delicate lace or sturdy seams.

One-Step Buttonholes

Creating buttonholes is a breeze with the one-step buttonhole function. This feature ensures consistent results every time, whether you’re adding buttonholes to garments, accessories, or home decor items.

Online Resources

For those who may feel intimidated by more advanced techniques, the Online Owner’s Class and SINGER Sewing Assistant App provide comprehensive guidance. These resources are available anytime, anywhere, making it easier to master your sewing machine and explore new techniques.

Included Accessories

The Fashion Mate 3342 sewing machine comes with a variety of accessories to enhance your sewing experience:

• General Purpose Foot
• Buttonhole Foot
• Button Sewing Foot
• Zipper Foot
• SINGER Sew Easy Foot (bonus item, may not be included in some areas)
• Bobbins (Class 15 transparent)
• Darning Plate
• Pack of Needles
• Auxiliary Spool Pin
• Seam Ripper/Lint Brush
• Spool Cap
• Edge/Quilting Guide

These accessories ensure you’re equipped for a wide range of sewing tasks right from the start.

Top Drop-In Bobbin

The Top Drop-In Bobbin system is one of the standout features of the SINGER Fashion Mate 3342 sewing machine. This design simplifies the bobbin loading process significantly. Unlike traditional front-loading bobbins that can be fiddly and time-consuming, the top drop-in bobbin allows you to simply place the bobbin into the designated compartment under the needle plate. This not only saves time but also ensures that the bobbin is inserted correctly every time. Additionally, the transparent bobbin cover lets you monitor the thread supply at a glance, so you never run out of thread unexpectedly in the middle of a seam.

Sewing Speed of 750 SPM

The SINGER Fashion Mate 3342 is capable of sewing at a speed of 750 stitches per minute (SPM). This speed is ideal for both beginners and experienced sewers. At 750 SPM, you can complete your sewing projects efficiently without compromising on precision and control. This moderate speed allows for detailed work and ensures that you can handle intricate patterns and delicate fabrics with ease. Whether you’re sewing long seams or performing detailed embroidery, the consistent speed of 750 SPM provides a perfect balance of speed and accuracy, making your sewing experience smooth and enjoyable.

Lightweight Design

The lightweight design of the SINGER Fashion Mate 3342 is another remarkable feature, as the machine weighs less than one pound. This portability makes it exceptionally easy to transport, whether you’re moving it from room to room, taking it to sewing classes, or bringing it along for crafting sessions with friends. Despite its lightweight build, the machine does not compromise on performance or durability. Its compact and light structure allows for comfortable handling and storage, making it an ideal choice for those who have limited space or need a sewing machine that’s easy to move around.

Affordable

The affordability of the SINGER Fashion Mate 3342 is a key feature that makes it accessible to a wide range of sewing enthusiasts. Despite its extensive list of features and accessories, the machine is priced competitively, offering great value for both beginners and experienced sewers. This affordability ensures that you don’t have to break the bank to own a high-quality sewing machine that provides versatility, ease of use, and reliability. The Singer Fashion Mate sewing machine delivers professional-level capabilities at a budget-friendly price, making it an excellent investment for anyone looking to start or expand their sewing journey.

Singer Fashion Mate 3342 Manual

For the user manual click here

If you encounter issues with your SINGER Fashion Mate 3342, here are some common problems and solutions:

1. Thread Breaking
   • Ensure the machine is threaded correctly.
   • Check the tension settings; they may be too tight.
   • Use high-quality thread appropriate for your fabric.
2. Skipped Stitches
   • Make sure the needle is inserted correctly and not bent or dull.
   • Use the right needle type and size for your fabric.
   • Check that the machine is properly threaded.
3. Fabric Not Feeding
   • Ensure the feed dogs are raised.
   • Check the presser foot pressure; it may need adjustment.
   • Clean the area around the feed dogs for any lint or debris.
4. Machine Jamming
   • Re-thread the machine and bobbin.
   • Clean the bobbin area to remove any lint or tangled threads.
   • Make sure the needle is not bent or damaged.
5. Uneven Stitches
   • Check the tension settings and adjust them as necessary.
   • Make sure the fabric is being guided evenly and not pulled.
6. Bobbin Thread Not Picking Up
   • Ensure the bobbin is inserted correctly.
   • Re-thread the upper thread and check the bobbin area for any obstructions.

Tips for Smooth Operation

• Regular Maintenance: Clean your machine regularly and oil it as per the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Proper Needles and Thread: Use the appropriate needles and thread for your fabric type.
• Consult the Manual: Refer to the user manual for detailed instructions and troubleshooting tips.

For further assistance, the Online Owner’s Class and SINGER Sewing Assistant App provide additional support and resources.

Singer Fashion Mate 3342 Bobbin Case Problems

If you encounter issues with the bobbin case in your SINGER Fashion Mate 3342, here are some common problems and their solutions:

Bobbin Case Not Properly Installed

Solution: Ensure the bobbin case is correctly aligned and seated. Refer to the manual for proper installation instructions.

Bobbin Case Jamming

Solution: Remove the bobbin case and clean any lint or thread debris. Re-thread the machine and bobbin case correctly.

Bobbin Thread Not Feeding Smoothly

Solution: Check that the bobbin is wound evenly and not overfilled. Rewind the bobbin if necessary.

Thread Tangling in the Bobbin Case

Solution: Ensure the bobbin is inserted in the correct direction and the thread is properly threaded through the bobbin tension spring.

Bobbin Case Making Noise

Solution: Remove the bobbin case and clean the area. Check for any damage or misalignment and reinsert the bobbin case carefully.

Tips for Maintaining the Bobbin Case

• Regular Cleaning: Keep the bobbin case and surrounding area clean to prevent lint and thread build-up.
• Correct Bobbins: Use SINGER Class 15 transparent bobbins for best results.
• Proper Threading: Follow the manual’s instructions for threading the bobbin and bobbin case to avoid issues.
• Routine Inspection: Regularly inspect the bobbin case for signs of wear or damage and replace it if necessary.

Singer Fashion Mate 3342 Needle Threader

The SINGER Fashion Mate 3342 features an automatic needle threader designed to simplify the threading process. Here’s how it benefits users and how to use it:

Benefits

1. Ease of Use: Automatically threads the needle with minimal effort, saving time and reducing eye strain.
2. Consistent Results: Provides a reliable thread placement, ensuring accurate and smooth sewing.
3. Reduced Frustration: Eliminates the common challenge of manually threading the needle, especially useful for those with dexterity issues.

How To Use the Needle Threader on Singer 3342?

1. Raise the Needle: Ensure the needle is in the highest position.
2. Position the Thread: Place the thread into the thread guide on the needle threader.
3. Engage the Threader: Follow the machine’s instructions to activate the needle threader. This typically involves pressing a lever or button.
4. Pull the Thread: Once the needle threader has caught the thread, pull it gently to thread the needle.

Bobbin for Singer Fashion Mate 3342

For the SINGER Fashion Mate 3342, you should use SINGER Class 15 transparent bobbins. These bobbins are specifically designed to fit the machine and are transparent, allowing you to easily monitor the remaining thread. Always ensure you’re using the correct type and size of bobbin to avoid issues with thread tension and machine performance.

How to adjust bobbin tension on Singer Fashion Mate 3342?

To adjust the bobbin tension on the SINGER Fashion Mate 3342, first, remove the bobbin case from the machine. Locate the small tension screw on the side of the bobbin case. Use a small screwdriver to turn the screw slightly: turning it clockwise increases the tension, while turning it counterclockwise decreases it. Make small adjustments and test the tension by sewing a few stitches on a scrap piece of fabric. Ensure the bobbin thread feeds smoothly and consistently. If the thread still doesn’t perform as expected, repeat the adjustment process until you achieve the desired tension.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the SINGER Fashion Mate 3342 stands out as a versatile and reliable sewing machine that caters to a wide range of sewing needs. Its user-friendly features, such as the automatic needle threader and top drop-in bobbin system, combined with its impressive stitch options and lightweight design, make it an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced sewers. With its affordable price and solid performance, the Fashion Mate 3342 sewing machine offers great value, ensuring that your sewing projects, whether simple or complex, are completed with ease and precision.