MzMcKee

Singer Futura SES2000
Journal September 16, 2010

I ordered this machine from HSN on Monday this week under the free standard shipping. I got a shipping notification in my email yesterday the 15th and it was signed for today the 16th. First comment, HSN has awesome delivery.

I photographed the entire packing placement in the event I decide to return the machine and it’s components.

I first used the list and made sure all the parts listed were received. 100%

Using the Quick Start Guide I set up the machine to sew, wound a bobbin, threaded the machine and made a few passes with the straight stitch using different lengths.

First stitch review. The machine is a bit noisier then my brother machines. But it does sew a very nice stitch. The tensions are factory perfect. I personally try never to be in a position to have to adjust the tensions.

At this time I set up my laptop in an area closer to the machine. Took a break to watch the enclosed DVDs. They are all pretty basic and cover information I have already found on the Internet in my research. However, they are very good for a beginner. The Ready Set Sew DVD is especially helpful for the person who has very little experience with a sewing machine. It goes over the basic of what can be found on all machine brands.

Going back to the Quick Start Guide I have attached the Embroidery Unit and I am getting ready to install the software to my laptop.

The software installed easily. At the end there was an option to watch a tutorial. I watched it. And finished the software installation.

Going back to the Quick Start Guide, I followed the instructions to secure material in the embroidery hoop. I placed the hoop on the machine. My computer was on so I connected the USB cable to the computer and to the machine. I turned the machine on as directed, flip the on switch. I then attached the hoop. Only then did I double click on the software icon. Because it was my first time to open the software it ask me if I wanted to stitch out a test item. I did. And it stitched perfectly. On this test I did not change colors.

It is my goal to use this machine at least daily for the duration of my 30 trial. And that includes changing colors. I will document my work here so that you can have a first person review of this machine. Of course other may have different results. They will be using a different machine and they are different people who interpret instructions differently. But I still hope this is helpful to those considering a Singer Futura All in One Machine.

bels

Thanks, Mona! The more we know about everything out there the better. Congrats on your new machine. Sounds good so far. Enjoy! Hoping to get a new machine someday.

MzMcKee

September 16, 2010 Evening

I went out tonight and got some basic supplies. Who wants to wait till tomorrow for the next pattern!

The first hoop I set up I read the software wrong and proceeded to re-stitch the same section 4 times. So, exit, turn it off and re-hoop. Lets start over.

I had two beep issues. One was a “broken thread”. So I learned that when threading the machine you need to listen for two clicks in the tension area. If your didn’t hear two clicks or are not sure, floss the thread back and forth in the tension area. That was the first and only time I had the broken thread error. So far.

The second beep issue happens a few times, but I learned a few things with it. The error indicated that I was using a small hoop for a large hoop design. I wasn’t, but you know that. This machine does not like it if you put the hoop on with out its knowledge, that would mean placing the hoop while the machine is off. And it doesn’t like to have the hoop placed if it’s not ready for it, that would mean when the carriage is in any position but the stand by position or start position. This is the same position it places the carriage when you first turn the machine on.

More on placing the hoop. When you place the hoop under the thumbscrews, don’t force it. If the hoop “pops” out and you have to push it back in and force it to stay there while you turn the thumb screws (that sounds a bit like torture don’t it) it will not work. You’ll get an error message and have to start over again. Remove the hoop (machine still on) turn off the machine, turn on the machine, machine confirms stand by position, and now place the hoop. Instead of trying to force it into place, give it a little gentle support on the other side and move it into place. If it stays there naturally, you’re in a good place and can now tighten the screws.

A couple of times, after a thread change, I had the hoop error again. I changed the thread, removed the hoop, turn off, turn on, placed the hoop and pressed continue on the computer. And all was well again.

MzMcKee

I did just one more before bed last night. Ok, this morning. Once I got started I couldn't stop myself. It's not a true lacy design so I stitched it on tulle with a water soluble stabilizer on the small 4" hoop. I think it turned out great! And I had no... repeat no error beeps.

MadQuilter

I am so glad you like your machine and I agree with you on the HSN topic. When I ordered my Singer L-500 I wanted to like it because it had all the features from the Janome 6600 AND the Babylock Quest, but it became clear fairly soon that we were not meant to be friends. So I sent her back. Bummer! At least the return process was incredibly easy.

MzMcKee

To day I worked on a project that my husband requested. He would like some patches made using logo's of CB Radios that haven't been manufactured or marketed in over 30 years. I found a clip art and using the auto punch software converted it to a digitized design. You'll see I wasn't too concern with making this one a stand along piece. I'm still working on it. I want a two color design with satin stitching. The "B" is suppose to be open. The software filled it with an instruction to stitch over it with a matching background color. I'm going to work some more on this one to try and open the "B".

And today, the only beep I had.. I had twice. I forgot to lower my foot before pressing the start button. That's it.


Thank you for taking the time to look. If you have any questions or even suggestions on what I should try to give this machine a "real" workout. Let me know. I'm not trying to prove this is "THE" machine, just want to give an honest review of the daily working.

MzMcKee

OH, so far my only disappointment in the machine. I can't seem to get the auto threader to hook through the eye of the needle to thread the machine. I have to admit, my eyes aren't what they used to be and I really like auto threaders! :)

emt2004

Sounds interesting, what was the price of this machine on HSN? I would love to purchase one if the price is good........Michele

MzMcKee

This machine was $799 5 payment easy pay. Came with all the software, extra feet, extra designs. It is a special package put together for HSN by Singer could also be known as CE350+.

MzMcKee

I've had a lot of life happening these last few weeks. A baby was born and a father has died. There has been many blessings and much sadness. But when I had time I would sit at the machine and do some work with it and the software it came with. I still have a couple of weeks to make this decision but I don't need the time. I have decided to return the machine. It's not because of the machine. The singer does everything it is asked to. The only machine issues I had were of my own doing. Trying to force the hoop on, not threading properly. I'm very happy with the machine. My decision is based on the software. The software that give the Singer it's instructions is just not strong enough for the quality of work I expect. I have a couple of photos I'm going to upload here. Please read on if your interested in my review. And thank you for your time. Mona