For sewing beginners interested in quilting and a solid starter machine (or are simply addicted to decorative stitches), the Singer Confidence 7470 is worth a look. It’s also a hit with more experienced sewers replacing an older Singer machine.
Its foundation is a heavy-duty metal frame (although, don’t expect the Singer style of years gone by – there are still some plastic parts and accessories) and described by Singer as an “electronic sewing machine which will be appreciated by experienced and novice sewers alike”.
Table of Contents
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Stitch Count / Presser Feet / Functionality / Accessories / Customer Reviews / Pros, Cons & Manual
REVIEW SUMMARY
MODEL: Singer Confidence 7470 Sewing Machine
REVIEWED BY: Erin
RATING: 4.0 
LAST UPDATED: April 9, 2015
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One beginner who started out with a Singer Simple outgrew it within a couple of months and bought this as an upgrade and has been thrilled with her decision.
There are lots of automated features to cover so this review may get a bit lengthy but I wanted to demonstrate the complete functionality of the machine so you can better evaluate your options.
The Stitches You Need and More, Too
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What’s the saying? A picture is worth a thousand words? There are LOTS of stitches here. Take a peek:
(Scroll to the bottom for a list of stitch names.)
That’s a total of 146 built-in stitches, including the 7 buttonhole stitches (six are 1-step buttonholes, one indefinite, manual buttonhole stitch), the letters, numbers, and punctuation. Monogramming? You’re in. Cute, little puppy? That, too. (Really! A puppy stitch!) In addition, 30 of those stitches can be done as mirror images which I should probably count as built-in stitches and a number of product descriptions do give different stitch counts (back to the old built-in vs stitch functions definition) but that’s why I included the picture.
There are a number of other edits you can make to stitches, including whether to sew some of the decorative stitches just once for embellishment or continuously (with the push of a button) to make a repeating line of decorative stitches. This makes for quite a selection of stitch functions when all the variables are considered.
You can save up to 20 stitches in memory and then clear the memory as needed so if you wanted to monogram cuffs with the same initials or make a number of clothing tags with the same name (and stick a flower stitch symbol at the end, of course, right?), you could do so without having to reprogram the arrangement for each tag.
Stitches are organized into two categories – utility and decorative stitches that are continuous along with buttonhole stitches in one category and non-continuous stitches (like letters and shapes) in another. There are two buttons that bring up these different groups, one for each category. Once the category is brought up on the screen, you use the arrow keys to scroll through the stitch patterns in that category. When the pattern you want appears on the screen, push the appropriate button just underneath the stitch picture on the screen.
To further save time, there are six buttons for single, push button stitch selection for the most used stitches – straight, zigzag, blind hem, overcasting, blanket, and a bartack buttonhole.
Stitch width is adjustable to 7mm and stitch length is adjustable to 3mm depending on the selected stitch. (See the note below about the decorative stitches being “small” – the limitation on stitch length is probably the reason.)
More Presser Feet Would be Nice but Not a Deal Breaker
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It comes with five snap-on presser feet and 3 presser foot height settings – down, up and extra-up for thick fabrics.
- Zigzag Foot (General Purpose)
- Zipper Foot
- Satin Stitch Foot
- Blind Stitch Foot
- Buttonhole Foot
There are four sewing machines in the Singer Confidence line. This video explains the differences between the models and also demonstrates the Singer Confidence 7470 sewing machine in action.
Features for Thread and Operational Control
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The Singer Confidence 7470 is packed with features that make machine set up fast, easy, and painless like:
- Bright, adjustable contrast, LCD screen
- Simple push-button control panel
- Drop &Sew, top loading bobbin
- See through bobbin cover
- Automatic needle threader
- Six point, box feed system
- Automatic and adjustable precision thread tension
- Visual and audible warning and error messages
- Horizontal top thread delivery for smoother thread flow
Needle position is variable to 13 positions which helps get closer to zipper seams and for adding piping and cording. There is also a needle up/down button so you can instruct the machine to leave the needle in the down position when you stop sewing. This aids in making perfectly tight corners.
The extension arm removes for free-arm sewing so you can hem pant legs, finish cuffs, and construct shirt sleeves. The extension arm also houses the included accessories.
Removing the extension table also reveals the drop feed dog lever. There’s a little trick to this lever which the instruction manual somewhat glosses over with just a picture. To drop the feed dog, slide the lever over. To raise the feed dogs, push the lever down first and then over.
The Singer Confidence 7470 is capable of twin needle sewing and includes a twin needle button which prevents you from selecting stitches that would harm the machine if performed while a twin needle is attached. Keep in mind that if you have a twin needle attached and then turn off the machine and turn it back on, the machine will have automatically returned to normal, straight stitch mode. Either replace the twin needle when you’re done using it or remember to push the twin needle button to inform the machine you should only be allowed to select twin needle stitches.
The work space is well lit with a StayBright, long-lasting LED light. A built-in carry handle is attached at the top of the machine.
Dimensions: L 17-1/5” x W 12 1/2” x D 8”
Weight: 16.5 pounds
Accessories
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The Singer Confidence 7470 comes with the following sewing machine accessories:
- 5 pack of needles
- 4 bobbins (including the one that comes in the machine)
- Second spool pin for extra large top thread spool
- 2 felt discs for spool pins
- 3 spool caps (mini, small and large)
- Buttonhole Opener/Brush/Seam Ripper
- Screwdriver
- Dust Cover
Singer Fans Like it as an Upgrade from Older Models
Bobbin threading is very easy. One woman used this model to replace her 40 year old Singer and is thrilled with the 7470. Makes smooth, quick stitches. Well lit work space. Light and easy to set up. Runs quietly. Powers through multiple layers. Intuitive and easy to learn. Used to make quilts, bridal gowns, flannel blankets, and for hemming pants – all were no problem except one consumer who did not find the walking foot exerted enough pressure on her quilt material to get the feed dogs to move the fabric properly. The machine weight does keep it from bouncing around while sewing yet it is still portable, just a bit heavier than some of the smaller machines in this price range.
There were a couple of complaints about machines that needed to be serviced in relatively short time. Those were, understandably, the folks who gave the machine a lower rating than others. Yet others not only had no problems to report – even after a number of years – but raved about how easy the machine was to use. Just something to note and may indicate you should make sure to buy from Amazon or an authorized dealer so the machine is covered by the manufacturer’s warranty.
This isn’t an advanced sewing machine as the decorative stitches are small in size but it’s one of the more packed sewing machines for beginners who are interested in light embroidery and quilting. The auto tension, smooth stitching and ease of use were the most noted positives about this machine.
Quite a number of reviewers were upgrading from previous Singer sewing machines and they loved this model. One beginner originally purchased the Singer Simple model and found she quickly outgrew it so replaced it with this model and has been thrilled with her decision. It would be interesting to get some perspective from folks who had replaced another brand of machine with this one to see if their thoughts and opinions were similar.
Average Rating: 4.0
Pros, Cons & Manual
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Pros: Wide sewing area. Well lit work space. Solid, sturdy machine capable of handling thick fabrics and a multitude of projects. Excellent stitch selection for craft sewing or free motion embroidery. Drop-in, jam proof bobbin system. Drop feed dog system for free motion quilting, free motion embroidery, and darning. Needle up/down button.
Cons: Decorative stitches are rather small. Includes some plastic parts so doesn’t feel quite like the old, all metal Singers (this is the case with almost all machines in this price range these days). Restricted to using class 15J bobbins. Reverse stitch button has to be held down to reverse stitch – not just press to start reverse and another press to stop. Twin needle capable but a twin needle does not come with the machine and must be purchased separately.
Manual available online here: Singer Confidence 7470 Manual
Manufacturer’s Warranty: As of this date,the warranty in the US is 25 year limited on the machine head, limited 5 year warranty on motors, light, assembly, wiring, switches, speed control and electronic components, and a limited 1 year warranty on adjustments, belts, rings, bulbs, and attachments. As is standard with most warranties, the warranty may be void if certain requirements are not followed.
These two locations currently have the lowest prices:
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Singer Confidence 7470 Features Summary Review:
Thanks for this great review all in one place. I just got the 7470 without really realizing the differences between all the Confidence lines. I’m wondering if I could buy the quilters extension table for my 7470? thx, -patricia
Patricia – Sorry for the delay! Went out of town for the 4th and I had connection issues. Hope you get a chance to see this response.
As far as I can tell, there are no Singer extension tables that work with the Confidence 7470, however, Sew Steady makes a great generic quilting extension table that fits many sewing machines. They also offer a number of different sizes. You can get them online through AllBrands here: http://www.jdoqocy.com/click-3893280-10359195?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.allbrands.com%2Fproducts%2Fabp03522.html%3Fppc%3Dcjpdt&cjsku=sewsteadyext
The Sew Steady extension table is custom made to fit your specific sewing machine so it takes a few weeks to order but you’ll see rave reviews about the product at Allbrands. It’s a see-through table with snap on legs made to be level to your sewing machine’s workspace and there’s a static-cling ruler that stays in place as you work but can easily be moved around and placed where you need it most.
Hope this helps!
Erin
Is there a way to make the letters bigger? I’ve read that the machine monograms, but I can’t get the letters big enough to utilize that feature. Thanks!
Kelly – You may be able to see some added size with the length and width settings on the decorative stitches but I’m not sure it will be the size you’re hoping. Once you’ve selected a letter, use the top-middle arrow key to adjust the stitch width and the far right arrow key to adjust length. If the default settings for that stitch are not already at the maximum setting, those two arrow keys can be used to increase the stitch size. However, it’s still not going to be very large. Small, decorative stitch size is often noted by those who have used the Confidence and Curvy line of machines. In fact, it might help to explain that the monogramming font on this machine is nice for using text to embellish a hem but if you’re envisioning large, one-inch monograms on sleeve cuffs or pockets, you’ll need a different machine. I like everything else about the 7470, though. Hope you’re having some fun with it. 🙂 Thanks!
Erin
Hi Erin,
I have been doing research on this machine but I’m getting confused about the number of stitches that it comes with. Your site says 146, Amazon says 173. I’m confused, what’s the difference? -Thanks for your help!
Emily – It is confusing. So confusing that I had to go back and figure out where I got my number. 😉
Here’s the first issue that comes up when product descriptions talk about stitches. There are “built-in” stitches and there are “stitch functions”. Built-in stitches are the total number of patterns built into a sewing machine. Stitch functions are the total number of unique patterns you can make using the built-in stitches. If a machine has mirror function and can sew some decorative stitches facing the opposite direction then you might have 1 built-in puppy dog stitch but that stitch has two functions: one function sews it in the default direction and the second function is sewn in the opposite direction.
If you look at the online manual and scroll all the way to the bottom, you’ll see images of all of the stitches. There are 145 of them. Which then led me to wonder how I’d come up with 146 but there are 146 in the picture I included in this post which came from Singer’s product material here: http://www.singerco.com/download/1189_7470%20F&B%20and%20Stitch%20Chart.pdf (this is also an image on Amazon). I went stitch by stitch to compare the manual and the product sheet to find the one stitch that’s different between the two. It’s the joining stitch that is the most furthest right stitch in the 3rd row of decorative stitches in the image above. That stitch is in the product sheet but not in the manual. (I’m sure I’ve lost you now…sorry!)
I called Singer for clarification but their line was busy. I called a local retailer who didn’t have a model on their floor at the moment but said they’d rely on the manual. I called Singer back and am on perpetual hold. 😉 If I get an answer from them I’ll come back and update this comment but it would appear that the 173 is not built-in stitches but probably includes stitch functions.
Not a definitive answer but maybe those online tools I pointed out will help you a bit?
Sincerely,
Erin
Update: I gave up being on hold and opted for an email to Singer’s Support line. I specifically asked how many built in stitches came with the 7470 considering the manual showed 145, the product sheet showed 146, retail listings on some websites show 173, and the Singer site says 225. I got one line back from Singer: “If you include all of the alphabet, numbers, punctuation’s etc, it has 225 built-in stitches.” Sigh. I’ve counted all the punctuation, stitches, and the alphabet and it’s still only 145 or 146 depending on whether you count from the manual or the product sheet. If it has 225 I don’t know where they’re hiding 79-80 stitches nor why their manual wouldn’t include them. I’m going to try to get my hands on one but since I already confirmed my local Singer dealer doesn’t have one in stock I’m not sure when I’ll get that chance. Anyone out there have a 7470 and can confirm the number of built-in stitches?
I’ll check those resources. Thanks for your quick reply!
I found a used Singer 7470 on craigslist and am torn between saving mucho $$ and shelling out $300 for a new Janome DC1050. I saw the ratings on amazon talking about having to get the 7470 serviced (many repeatedly). It seems these situations were the exception rather than the rule. However, I consider it a risk to buy used since it voids the warranty. This will be my first machine….what do you think is the wisest choice? Save the $150 (more sewing notions & accessories!) and take the risk or go ahead with the expensive but sure thing?
thanks!
Emily
I would say avoid the 7470, i have it and I never had a day without issues when sewing with this machine and I am not a novice. I started sewing when I was 8 so that being said I got mine knowing that singer was a dependandable brand but i think like all things this is made in China and works like a piece of chinese junk!!! I have had many days when i just want to take an ax to it thats how much i hate it.
Addison – It’s such a nasty experience when your machine fights you all the time, isn’t it? I hate that! (You realize that if you take an ax to it you MUST video tape it and put it on YouTube. Could be quite the viral sewing video!) 😉
I hope you have better luck with your next machine and thanks for sharing your experience on the 7470 with others. Every piece of information helps!
Sincerely,
Erin
I agree with Addison. I have been seeing for over 40 years. I loved Singer machines, from treadle to sturdy electric models. I live in a town where Singer was a major employer. However The modern machine including Singer confidence 7470, which I had the misfortune to buy are so inferior. Singers are trading on their past reputation. DON’T BUY!
The 7470 has given me so many headaches. The first week that i had it the hook broke and had to serviced. I sew for a living and now it will not sew. I sew a lot of knits and I went and purchased new ball point needles and it will not sew anything. I will never buy another Singer. I also have the Singer Futura embroidery machine; sitting here and doesn’t work.
Hi Erin,
Thanks for the great reviews. I am looking for a new sewing machine to replace my cheep one from a supermarket and i am in between the singer 7470 and singer 9960. I normaly use the machine to make some little stuff for my kids, like bags, simple dresses, but I am getting excited with idea of exploring a bit more. i live in Denmark and here the 7470 is on big sale for half price, but looking at the reviews I was wondering if it is a good choice. I was first planning to get a confidence 7463, but since the 7470 is for the same price, I changed my mind, but I am afraid the cheeper price of the 7470 could be because it is a machine that is getting out of production or because it is not very good done. I find a good idea to have the possibility to do some decorative stiches and also write names, so I came across your page and read only good things about the 9960, and although it can do a lot more than what I actually need at the moment and is more expensive, I got interested, but i am not sure, since it cost twice as much and i got the feeling it could be a heavy machine. What do you think, is the 7470 a good choice or not a very reliable machine and I should pay more and get a singer 9960?
Thanks for your help.
Sincerly
Alice
Hi, Alice! The Singer 7470 is not a bad machine and can do the things you outline but I do think the 9960 is a better choice. Not only does it have more stitches and come with more accessories but it also has a stronger feed dog system – 7 piece instead of 6 on the 7470. Your options are just about endless on the 9960 with significantly more stitches. The 9960 also has more automation with the speed control and start/stop buttons (which I absolutely love).
Because you’ve got such a good deal available to you locally on the 7470 and it really will suffice for your needs I understand why you want to weigh the decision carefully. You’d want to consider those extra stitches and accessories and whether or not you’d really use them. If there’s any chance you would use them then I’d pay the extra for the 9960.
Sincerely,
Erin
Hello,
I have been looking to buy a sewing machine and I have been searching everywhere for reviews and prices. I have to say your website gives excellent information and advise!
I live in Greece and my option are limited on models available plus they are very expensive over here… So, I am looking to buy a singer over the internet most likely for the UK. I am between the singer 7470 and 7463. I know the are different models with more stitches etc. but I have fount the 7463 half the price of the 7470. As I am new to sewing I am wondering whether the 7470 will be overwhelming for me…
Thank you in advance.
Please help! I am not a novice seamstress. Have been sewing for almost 40 some odd years. I also know my way around computers. HOWEVER, this sewing machine “Singer Confidence 7470 has me extremely confused! I have read the instruction booklet inside and out, checked Youtube for hints and yet still cannot operate the buttonhole attachment or program this sewing machine to make a darn buttonhole, manual or otherwise. please sent me instructions on how to do this. It’s driving me nuts. I have 2 outfits made for my granddaughter and she will grown out of them before I can get these buttonholes made.
Thanks You!
Terry Patterson
Hi I have a Singer 7479 and I’m having problems with the continuous sewing. How do you stop it? And is there a way to turn it off?
Thank you
Sandi
Ft worth, Tx