Machine is excellent for heavy duty sewing, however, it is difficult to thread even with threader. There is not enough space for your hand between plate and machine to thread. Also, thread had a tendency to break with twin needle. stitching. Poor lighting is also an issue.
I really love my machine. I sew a lot of craft items for sale. I needed a new machine and was not able to get a commercial sewing machine at the time. This one gets the job done. Just make sure you clean it and oil it and it is the best machine.
I purchased this machine on black Friday. What a blessing it's been. I was so tired of my Kenmore, which never really worked and was awful and drustrating. My singer machine does it all, in minutes. I have reupholstered a glider rocking chair for my daugther, made several craft projects, etc. The sky is the limit. No need to spend hundreds or thousands on a sewing machine. After all, our pioneer women made quilts out of old clothes.
The 4423 is a good machine with reasonable price. The first time I try it out I have some difficulties to maintain the thread "tension", especially when doing the button holes and other zig-zag sewing, otherwise everyting seems to be normal. I would appricate if some expert would be able to help in this regards, Chris.
Purchased this sewing machine as a gift for my daughter who is learning to sew. I purchased this machine on December 6, 2012 and on January 11, 2013 the machine will not sew. Before we could finish her first project the thread under the fabric began bunching. I performed all the checks and balances recommended in the user's guide (i.e., re-threaded the machine, checked the bobbin case, ran another bobbin, checked all of the upper tensions, stitch width and length, ensured that the button hold lever was in the up position, etc.) The machine will sew about 2-4 stitches and will then just grind and will not stitch another stitch. This is so discouraging. At this point, I am kicking myself, because I knew I should have purchased another brand of sewing machine.
Received 4423 Heavy Duty Sewing Machine on 12/5/2012. Great working first time. On second time using it I was unable to pick up bobbin thread with needle. Machine now in repair shop. Can't wait to get it back because it works great when sewing through thick materials. I look forward to getting it back.