Brother XM2701 Lightweight Sewing Machine Review

This is an in depth review of the Brother XM2701 Lightweight, Full Featured Sewing Machine, which is an easy-to-use, feature packed machine perfect for beginning sewers on a budget.

I will overview the following features and aspects of this sewing machine:

• The overall features
• Built-in stitches and buttonholes
• Presser feet and included accessories
• A video demo
• What users have to say (reviews)
• The pros and cons
• And the best current price

So let’s get started!

Introduction to the Brother XM2701

The XM2701 is a perfect sewing machine for beginners and sewists on a budget because of its simplicity and reasonable price.

This mechanical sewing machine is easy-to-use right out of the box. It is value-packed and versatile and a great machine overall for a wide range of everyday sewing projects.

Below is a general overview of the features and accessories included. Continue reading for a more in depth overview.

Built-In-Stitches	27
Stitch Selection	Dial
Buttonhole Styles	1 One step style
Needle Threading System	Automatic
Easy Bobbin Winding	Yes
Automatic Thread Cutter	Yes
Presser Feet Included	6 (No Quilting Feet Included)
Feed Dog	6
Quick Set Bobbin	Yes (Drop In)
Max Sewing Speed (stitches per minute)	800 spm
Stitch Width	5mm
Stitch Length	4mm
Speed Controller	No
Automatic Needle Up / Down	No
Drop Feed / Free Motion	Yes
Built-In Quilting Stitches	Yes
Accessory Storage	Yes
Carrying Case	Optional
Machine Weight	12.6 lbs
Machine Dimensions	12.1" x 5.9." x 15.3"
Warranty	Brother 25 Year Limited Warranty
Rating	4.5 / 5.0
Current Price

Brother XM2701 Built-In Stitches

This machine is considered a mechanical sewing machine because it does not have a built-in computer with pre-programmed settings.

It has a dial that you turn by hand to select the stitch, the stitch length, and the stitch width. Selecting a stitch couldn’t be easier. All of the stitches are laid out clearly on the front.

The Brother XM2701 has 27 unique built-in stitches, including blind hem, decorative and quilting stitches, with an automatic one-step buttonholer for perfect buttonholes.

This is plenty to handle the majority of basic projects that you’ll have.

There are machines on the market with hundreds of built-in stitches, but don’t let that fool you. Most people use just a few stitches regularly (this includes me – 90% of the time I use a regular straight stitch.)

Because the XM2701 has a drop feed you can do free motion quilting with it. There are no included quilting feet but you can purchase a free motion quilting foot and other quilting feet separately.

The Brother XM2701 has a single one-step auto-size buttonholer so there is not a lot of versatility but should be fine for most beginner sewists.

Convenience and Easy-to-Use Features

The Brother XM2701 is affordably priced but you still get a nice amount of convenience features like a jam-resistant drop-in bobbin system and easy bobbin rewinding.

Another great feature that you won’t ever be able to live without is an automatic needle threader. Follow the easy-to-read thread instructions then simply touch the lever on the side of the machine, and the XM2701 automatically pushes the thread right through the needle.

A built-in thread cutter, built in LED light, and a free arm for sewing sleeves, skirts, etc. are additional features that make this a value packed machine.

You also get an instruction DVD makes getting started easy. The DVD shows demonstrations on everything from threading the needle to sewing buttonholes.

Presser Feet Included

• Buttonhole foot
• Button sewing foot
• Narrow Hemmer foot
• Zipper foot
• Blind Stitch foot
• Zigzag foot

Accessories Included

• Darning plate
• Accessory bag with needle pack
• Twin needle
• Screwdriver
• Extra spool pin
• Bobbins (3)
• Power cord
• Instructional DVD
• Operation manual

There is no carrying case included with this but you can purchase the Brother Universal Carrying Case to protect your machine. I own one of these for my Brother machine and it is a worthwhile investment.

Video Demo

Here is a video showing the versatility of this machine in action.

User Reviews of the Brother XM2701

Currently Rated 4.5 / 5.0

Users of this machine rave about how easy-to-use this machine and some said it was perfect for beginners.

Many users appreciate the dvd, which guides you through the setup and what you can do with it.

Users were impressed with how quiet it is when sewing.

Owners also commented on how substantial and responsive the foot pedal is, allowing the speed to be easily controlled at max speed or slowed down.

Pros and Cons of theBrother XM2701

PROS

• Lightweight and portable at 12.6 lbs
• Very affordable
• Comes with a dvd for easy setup and instructions for beginners
• Quiet yet powerful sewing at 800 stitches per minute

CONS

• Presser foot pressure is not adjustable
• Some reviewers mentioned that the LED light is not bright enough

Overall Summary of the Brother XM2701

Overall you should know that the Brother XM2701 sewing machine is definitely a budget beginner machine. It has a good amount of convenience features to make sewing and setup easy and plenty of stitches for most projects.

Best of all it is very lightweight and easily portable to sewing classes or travel.

If you are an advanced seamstress this is also suitable as a travel machine or something simple to use instead of taking out a larger and heavier machine.

Current and Best Price 

Brother XM2701 Lightweight, Full-Featured Sewing Machine with 27 Stitches, 1-Step Auto-Size Buttonholer, 6 Sewing Feet, and Instructional DVD

Price Disclaimer

You can’t beat the price of the Brother XM2701. It is very affordable for any budget, which is one reason it is a top selling machine. This is a great sewing machine that will last you for years as your sewing skills grow.

Check out my other reviews of beginner sewing machines or lightweight sewing machines for similar machines to the Brother XM2701.

Let me know if you have any questions. I’ll do my best to answer. Happy sewing  

from Sewing Machine Savvy – Best Reviews and Comparisons http://www.sewingmachinesavvy.com/brother-xm2701-lightweight-sewing-machine-review/

Price:

$116.99

Best Singer Sewing Machines for Beginners

Singer is possibly the most famous brand of sewing machines and the most well known. It was established in 1851 so we are coming up on 200 years of sewing machine history. The Singer name is synonymous with sewing.

With over 60 types of sewing machines currently on the market, they make a machine for every level of sewing, including beginning sewers who need an easy-to-use, affordable machine. Singer has a great lineup of beginner sewing machines. In this article I’ll go over three great choices to compare.

What to Look for In a Beginner Sewing Machine

Your overall sewing experience will determine the features and price you look for when shopping for a new machine. An experienced seamstress or an advanced quilter have different needs and wants in a sewing machine than someone who is just starting out.

Here are four things to consider when you shop for the best Singer sewing machine as a beginner.

1. Simplicity and Ease of Use

Of all the features that a sewing machine that can offer you I think the most important thing to look out for is ease of use and simplicity. There are machines on the market that have every bell and whistle you could possibly think of and dozens and dozens of built-in-stitches, embroidery, monogramming, etc. Do you need all of this if you are starting out? No. These features might only frustrate and confuse you. Focus on the features that you will actually use.

One thing to remember is many sewing machines have a lot of built-in stitches and beginners can get caught up in this number thinking it is important – you may think that a sewing machine with 100 built-in stitches is superior to a machine with 8 built-in stitches. Well, that’s not always the case because there are many other factors to consider and most sewers use just a few stitches – 90% of the time you are going to use a simple straight stitch.

As a beginner you should keep an eye out for sewing machines with a clean and easy to understand interface. If you can take the machine out of the box and start sewing right away, then that is true simplicity and a great beginner machine.

At a basic level, there are 2 types of sewing machines – mechanical or electronic / computerized. A computerized machine has an LCD screen and you choose your stitch and other features with the touch of a button. With a mechanical machine there will be a turn dial, with the stitches labeled on the dial and you stop at the one you want to use.

Neither one of these is better or worse – it kind of depends on your preference. Some people prefer a mechanical machine because over time they can tend to have less problems because they don’t have a computer and all of the electronic components.

Read more about mechanical vs. computerized machines here if you are interested.

2. Automatic and Convenience Features

Automatic features are not 100% necessary to sew but in my opinion they make sewing easier and fun, especially for beginners. When I bought my first sewing machine I didn’t know what to look for and fortunately the machine I chose (a Brother) had many automatic features that I really appreciated.

Here are some automatic and convenience features that you may find helpful:

• Automatic needle threader
• Variable speed control / speed slider (This one was huge for me when I started sewing and it is still a must have feature for me. This allows you to slow your sewing speed down and you can go very slow if needed.)
• Snap-on presser feet – This makes changing your presser foot quick and easy
• Easy bobbin winder and drop-in bobbin
• Built-in thread cutter

3. Affordably Priced

Just like sewing machines come with many different features and specifications, they also have varying price ranges. You can buy a mini sewing machine that costs under $30 (yup!) and you can spend over $15,000 on a sewing machine (check out this Bernina 880-SE – amazing!).

If you are a beginner I think that a budget under $200 is plenty to get the features you need to get started with enough room to grow into. Sewing is a skill that will grow over time – you don’t start out as an advanced quilter but maybe over time you will move into that and you will need a machine with advanced quilting options.

4. Size and Portability

Size and weight are an important feature to consider because many beginning sewers don’t have a dedicated sewing area / table. A lightweight machine is good if you need to store your machine in a cabinet and pull it out when you want to use it.

There are machines out there that weigh over 25 lbs. easily and then you have lots of machines in the 10 – 15 lb range and that’s quite a difference if you have to frequently move your machine around or pull it out and put it away.

Also, if you are going to sewing classes you want a machine that is light and portable.

A carrying case is also important because it protects your Singer sewing machine and makes it simple to carry with a handle. Singer makes a universal hard carrying case that fits most free arm models and some machines come with this when you purchase it.

Comparison of 3 Singer Sewing Machines Perfect for A Beginner

Here is an overview of three Singer machines that a beginning sewer will appreciate. These machines are intuitive and easy to use, affordably priced, and lightweight and portable.

	Singer 4411	Singer 3232	Singer 7258
Weight	14.5 lbs	12.2 lbs	14.75 lbs
Built-In Stitches	11	32	100
Easy Buttonholes	1, 4-step	1, 1-step	6, 1-step
Needle Threader	Automatic	Automatic	Automatic
Slider Speed Control	No	No	Yes
Thread Cutter	Yes	Yes	Yes
Max Speed (spm)	1,100	750	750
Presser Feet Included	4	4	10
Current Price

Below is a more in-depth review of the features and specs of each machine

Singer 4411 Heavy Duty Extra High Speed Sewing Machine

The Singer 4411 is a mechanical sewing machine with 11 stitches to choose from using an easy to read turn dial and one 4-step buttonhole.  This machine has a powerful motor nad has a sewing speed of 1,100 stitches per minute, which is incredibly fast.

The 4411 is considered a heavy duty sewing machine because it can handle thicker fabrics like denim, vinyl, and even leather (just be sure to use the right sewing needle). The internal skeleton of the sewing machine consists of a heavy duty metal frame, which allows for skip-free sewing and durability.

It has a built-in handle and weighs around 14.5 lbs. so it is still very much portable and not a burden to take to sewing classes, traveling, or to pull in and out when working on projects.

Features of this Machine:

• Automatic needle threader
• Free arm
• Stainless steel bed plate
• Adjustable presser foot control
• Extra high presser foot lift
• Snap-on presser feet
• 4 included presser feet (All-purpose foot, Buttonhole foot, Zipper foot, Button Sewing Foot)

Reviewers of this machine all commented on how simple yet powerful it is. The simplicity of the Singer 4411 makes it perfect for a beginner, and its power and heavy duty metal frame mean it will last for years to come.

Singer 3232 Simple Sewing Machine

The Singer 3232 is called the Simple Sewing Machine and that is exactly what it is – an affordably priced mechanical sewing machine with 32 built-in stitches and an automatic 1 step buttonhole.

 

Overall Features:

• Automatic needle threader
• Adjustable stitch length & width
• Free arm
• Automatic reverse
• Extra high presser foot lift

• Heavy duty metal frame
• 4 presser feet (All-Purpose Foot, Buttonhole Foot, Button Sewing Foot, Zipper Foot)

Overall the Singer 3232 is an easy-to-use machine that you can start sewing on right out of the box, It is affordably priced, lightweight (it weighs just 12.2 lbs.), and it has a heavy duty metal frame for skip free sewing.

Singer 7258 100-Stitch Computerized Sewing Machine

The Singer 7258 is one of Singer’s best selling sewing machines. It is a two time Consumer Digest award winner based on their combination of eight criteria: performance, ease of use, features, quality of construction, warranty, efficiency, styling, and maintenance and service requirements.

This is a computerized sewing so it has an LCD screen with easy navigation keys to choose your stitch. You get 100 built-in stitches, which is plenty for any type of project a beginner can think of.

Since this is computerized it has more automatic and touch button features like a start / stop button and speed control.

Overall Features:

• 100 built-in stitches and 7 automatic buttonholes
• Automatic stitch length and width
• Start/Stop button
• Speed control slider
• Automatic reverse
• Locking stitch button
• Programmable needle up/ down
• Automatic needle threading system
• Quick set top drop-in bobbin
• Free arm
• 4 presser feet – (zigzag/all purpose, buttonhole, zipper, rolled hem, blind hem, darning and embroidery, overcast, straight stitch, gathering, satin stitch/straight stitch)

If you are a beginner and you really want a computerized Singer sewing machine then this is the perfect option. My first sewing machine was a computerized machine and I absolutely loved and appreciated all of the automatic features that an electronic machine can offer.

Just know that computerized machines are a little more technical and need to be cared for. Overall the Singer 7258 is very affordable and you get so many features. With good care it will last you a long time even as your experience grows.

The Bottom Line on Singer Beginner Sewing Machines

Singer is a trusted brand in the sewing industry and these 3 machines are all perfect options for a beginner. So which one of these machines do I think is the best? Think about the features that you really want – Computerized vs. mechanical? Variable speed control? And consider your budget too. Then you can narrow down which machine is the better option for you.

Also, these machines are all under $200. If you have room for a bigger budget then you may want to consider additional machines, but keep in mind that higher price means more features and a more complicated machine. As a beginner you may not need it. If you want to do more research you can check out some great beginner Brother sewing machines or beginner Janome sewing machines.

If you have any questions then leave a question in the comments below and I’ll do my best to help.

from Sewing Machine Savvy – Best Reviews and Comparisons http://www.sewingmachinesavvy.com/best-singer-sewing-machines-for-beginners/

Best Janome Sewing Machines for Beginners

The question that comes up the most for me on this site is “which sewing machine should I buy?” And that’s hard to answer because there are many great machines by different brands with various features and prices. There isn’t one perfect machine for everyone.

My first sewing machine was a Brother, which I loved, and my second machine was a higher priced Janome. Sewing on that machine made me fall in love with the brand.

Janome sewing machines are designed for performance, but also for comfort, quality, and ease of operation. I love the simplicity of their machines. They are so easy to use, yet powerful, and sew like a dream, which is why Janome sewing machines are perfect if you are a beginning sewer and you want a quality machine that will last for years.

What to Look for In a Beginner Sewing Machine

Your overall sewing experience will determine the features and price you look for when shopping for a new machine. Someone who has been sewing for years or an advanced quilter will need a completely different type of machine than a someone starting out.

Here are four things to consider when you shop for the best Janome beginner sewing machine.

1. Simplicity and Ease of Use

Of all the features that a sewing machine that can offer you I think the most important thing to look out for is ease of use and simplicity. There are machines on the market that have every bell and whistle you could possibly think of and dozens and dozens of built-in-stitches, embroidery, monogramming, etc. Do you need all of this if you are starting out? No. These features will only frustrate you and confuse you. Just focus on the features that you will actually use.

The funny thing is many machines have tons of built-in stitches and sometimes beginners get caught up in this number when shopping thinking that a machine with 100 built-in stitches is superior to a machine with 8 built-in stitches. Well, that’s not always the case because there are many other factors to consider and most sewers use just a few stitches – 90% of the time you are going to use a simple straight stitch.

As a beginner you should keep an eye out for sewing machines with a clean and easy to understand interface. If you can take the machine out of the box and start sewing right away, then that is true simplicity and a great beginner machine.

At a basic level, there are 2 types of sewing machines – mechanical or electronic / computerized. A computerized machine has an LCD screen and you choose your stitch and other features with the touch of a button. With a mechanical machine there will be a turn dial, with the stitches labeled on the dial and you stop at the one you want to use.

Neither one of these is better or worse – it kind of depends on your preference. Some people prefer a mechanical machine because over time they can tend to have less problems because they don’t have a computer and all of the electronic components. Read more about mechanical vs. computerized machines here if you are interested.

2. Automatic and Convenience Features

Automatic features are not 100% necessary to sew but in my opinion they make sewing easier and fun, especially for beginners. When I bought my first sewing machine I didn’t know what to look for and fortunately the machine I chose (a Brother) had many automatic features that I really appreciated.

Here are some automatic and convenience features that you may find helpful:

• Automatic needle threader
• Variable speed control / speed slider (This one was huge for me when I started sewing and it is still a must have feature for me. This allows you to slow your sewing speed down and you can go very slow if needed.)
• Snap-on presser feet – This makes changing your presser foot quick and easy
• Easy bobbin winder and drop-in bobbin
• Built-in thread cutter

3. Affordably Priced

Just like sewing machines come with many different features and specifications, they also have varying price ranges. You can buy a mini sewing machine that costs under $30 (yup!) and you can spend over $15,000 on a sewing machine (check out this Bernina 880-SE – amazing!).

If you are a beginner I think that a budget under $200 is plenty to get the features you need to get started with enough room to grow into. Sewing is a skill that will grow over time – you don’t start out as an advanced quilter but maybe over time you will move into that and you will need a machine with advanced quilting options.

4. Size and Portability

Size and weight are an important feature to consider because many beginning sewers don’t have a dedicated sewing area / table. A lightweight machine is good if you need to store your machine in a cabinet and pull it out when you want to use it.

There are machines out there that weigh over 25 lbs. easily and then you have lots of machines in the 10 – 15 lb range and that’s quite a difference if you have to frequently move your machine around or pull it out and put it away.

Also, if you are going to sewing classes you want a machine that is light and portable.

A carrying case is also important because it protects your Janome sewing machine and makes it simple to carry with a handle. Janome makes a hard cover carrying case and several styles of totes and a trolley All of these are great options to protect your investment.

Comparison of 4 Janome Sewing Machines Great for Beginners

Here is an overview of four Brother machines that are easy to use, affordably priced, and lightweight and portable.

	Janome 660	Janome 2212	Janome MOD-30	Janome 3128
Weight	11.6 lbs	13 lbs	12.7 lbs	18.2 lbs
Built-In Stitches	12	12	30	30
Easy Buttonholes	1, 4-step	1, 4-step	3, 1-step	1, 4-step
Needle Threader	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Slider Speed Control	No	No	Yes	No
Thread Cutter	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Max Speed	650	860	750	650
Free Arm?	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Drop Feed?	No	Yes	Yes	No
Presser Feet Included	5	4	4	4
Current Price

Below is a more in-depth review of the features and specs of each machine

Janome Jem Gold 660 Sewing & Quilting Machine

The Janome Jem Gold 660 is a mechanical sewing machine with 12 stitches to choose from using an easy to read turn dial and one 4-step buttonhole. It has just enough convenient features to make it perfect for a beginner.

It weighs just11.6 lbs. so it is very lightweight and portable – easy to take with you to sewing classes, traveling, or to pull in and out when working on projects.

Features of this Machine:

• Easy reverse button
• Built-in needle threader
• Free arm
• Extension Table
• Top loading full rotary hook bobbin
• One hand thread cutter
• Extra high presser foot lift
• Snap-on presser feet
• 5 included presser feet (standard, buttonhole foot, overedge foot, sliding buttonhole foot, zig-zag foot)
• Work space is W 5.1″ x D 4.3″

Reviewers of this machine all commented on how beautifully it sews and sometimes even better than more expensive machines they have from a different brand. One great thing about the Janome 660 is the extension table so you can use this machine if you ever decide to get into quilting. Janome has a separate quilting kit that you can purchase – it comes with  a 1/4″ Seam Foot, Craft Foot, Cloth guide, Darning Foot, and an Even Feed Foot With Guide.

This does not have a built-in handle and it does not come with a carrying case but Janome has several options for cases and rolling trolley if you will be toting your machine from place to place.

Janome 2212 Sewing Machine

The Janome 2212 is an amazing entry level sewing machine priced under $200.

This is a mechanical sewing machine with 12 built-in stitches and 1 automatic buttonhole. You choose your stitch and stitch width using the easy-to-read turn dial on the front.

It has a drop feed so it can be used for quilting as well.

Overall Features:

• Built-in thread cutter
• Easy reverse button
• Free arm
• Snap on presser feet
• Extra high presser foot lift

• Drop feed for free motion stitching
• 4 presser feet – general purpose foot, blind hem foot, zig zag foot, and sliding buttonhole foot
• Work space is W 6.5″ x H 4.7″

There are no quilting feet included but you can purchase those separately.

Overall the Janome 2212 sewing machine is an affordably priced, lightweight (it weighs just 13 lbs.), easy-to-use machine that has the durability and reliability of the Janome brand.

Janome MOD-30 Computerized Sewing Machine

 

The Janome MOD-30 is the first computerized sewing machine in this bunch. It has a backlit LCD screen with easy navigation keys to choose your stitch.

Since this is computerized it has more automatic and touch button features like a start / stop button and speed control

Overall Features:

• 30 built-in stitches and 3, 1-step buttonhole
• Automatic stitch length and width
• Start/Stop button
• Speed control slider
• Easy reverse button
• Locking stitch button
• Needle Up/ Down
• Automatic needle threading system
• Quick set top drop-in bobbin
• Free arm
• Drop feed for free motion sewing and quilting
• Large work space
• 4 presser feet – General Purpose Foot, Zipper Foot, Satin Stitch Foot, Automatic Buttonhole Foot
• W 6.7″ x H 4.3″

All of this and it weighs just 12.7 lbs! This machine is packed with features and yet very lightweight and portable.

If you are a beginner and you really want a computerized machine then this is a perfect option. Just know that computerized machines are a little more technical and need to be cared for and also cost more. Overall this machine is still very affordable and you get so many features. With good care it will last you a long time even as your experience grows.

Janome 3128 Sewing Machine

The Janome 3128 is the baby of this bunch – it is the simplest and priced under $150! But that doesn’t mean it isn’t a great machine. It just has the bare bones basics so it is perfect for a beginner.

Overall Features:

• 8 built-in stitches
• 1, 4-step buttonhole
• Easy lay-in threader
• Free arm
• Easy reverse button
• Extra high presser foot lift
• Snap on presser feet
• 4 presser feet included – general purpose foot, 1/4 Inch Seam Foot, Sliding Buttonhole Foot, Zig-Zag Foot
• Work space is W 5.4″ x H 4″

It weighs just 11 lbs so it is lightweight and compact. This does not have a drop feed mechanism so no quilting. There are not a lot of bells and whistles on this machine but sometimes that’s the best thing for a beginner.

The Bottom Line on Janome Beginner Sewing Machines

Janome is a trusted brand in the sewing industry and these 3 machines are all perfect options for a beginner. So which one of these machines do I think is the best? Think about the features that you really want – Computerized vs. mechanical? Variable speed control? Quilting options? And consider your budget too. Then you can narrow down which machine is the better option for you.

Also, these machines are in the $150 to $250 range. If you have room for a bigger budget then you may want to consider additional machines, but keep in mind that higher price also means a more complicated machine with more features. As a beginner you may not need it. I reviewed the Janome DC2015, which is an amazing machine but it is a lot more expensive than these machines here.

If you have any questions then leave a question in the comments below and I’ll do my best to help.

from Sewing Machine Savvy – Best Reviews and Comparisons http://www.sewingmachinesavvy.com/best-janome-sewing-machines-for-beginners/

Best Brother Sewing Machines for Beginners

Brother is a leader in making sewing machines for all sewing levels from beginner to expert. There are dozens and dozens of Brother sewing machines on the market that cover all categories of sewing. Here I am going to focus on some top Brother sewing machines  that are great for beginners.

The biggest question I get here on this site is “which sewing machine should I buy?” That’s a tough one because there are so many great machines out there with different specs. My first sewing machine was a Brother so I highly recommend this brand if you are new to sewing and want a high quality, reliable, and beginner friendly sewing machine.

What to Look for In a Beginner Sewing Machine

Your level of sewing experience will dictate the features and price you look for when shopping for a new machine.  An advanced quilter will need a much different machine than a beginning sewer. With that said, here are some qualities to pay attention to when you shop for the best Brother sewing machine for a beginner.

1. Simplicity and Ease of Use

Of all the features that a sewing machine that can offer you I think the most important thing to look out for is ease of use and simplicity. There are machines on the market that have every bell and whistle you could possibly think of and dozens and dozens of built-in-stitches, embroidery, monogramming, etc. Do you need all of this if you are starting out? Nope!

The funny thing with sewing is this – many machines have all of these built-in stitches and sometimes beginners get caught up in this number when shopping. They think that a machine with 100 built-in stitches is so much better than a machine with 27 built-in stitches, but that’s not the case because most sewers use just a few stitches and 90% of the time you are going to use a simple straight stitch.

You want a sewing machine that has a clean interface that you can easily understand. If you can take the machine out of the box and start sewing in under 5 minutes then that is true simplicity and a great beginner machine.

At a basic level, there are 2 types of sewing machines – mechanical or electronic / computerized. A computerized machine has an LCD screen and you choose your stitch and other features with the touch of a button. With a mechanical machine there will be a turn dial, with the stitches labeled on the dial and you stop at the one you want to use.

Neither one of these is better or worse – it just depends on your preference. Read more about mechanical vs. computerized machines here if you are interested.

2. Automatic and Convenience Features

Automatic features are not 100% necessary to sew but in my opinion they make sewing so much easier, especially for beginners. With my first sewing machine I really didn’t know what to look for and fortunately the machine I chose (a Brother) had many automatic features that I really appreciated.

Here are some automatic and convenience features that you may find helpful.

• Automatic needle threader – With this you can thread your needle in just a few seconds
• Variable speed control / speed slider – This one was huge for me when I started sewing and it is still a must have feature for me. This allows you to slow your sewing speed down and you can go very slow if needed.
• Snap-on presser feet – This makes changing your presser foot quick and easy
• Easy bobbin winder
• Built-in thread cutter

3. Affordably Priced

Just like sewing machines come with many different features and specifications, they also have varying price ranges. You can buy a mini sewing machine that costs under $30 (yup!) and you can spend over $15,000 on a sewing machine (check out this Bernina 880-SE – amazing!).

If you are a beginner I think that a budget under $200 is plenty to get the features you need to get started with enough room to grow into. Sewing is a skill that grows over time – you don’t start out as an advanced quilter but maybe over time you will grow into that and you will need a machine with advanced quilting options.

4. Size and Portability

I think size and weight are an important feature to consider. Many beginning sewers don’t have a dedicated sewing area / table so a lightweight machine is good if you need to store your machine in a cabinet and pull it out when you want to use it.

Also, if you are going to sewing classes you want a machine that is light and portable. A carrying case is also important because it protects your Brother sewing machine and makes it simple to carry with a handle. Brother makes an excellent hard cover carrying case that fits the majority of their machines. Two machines below come with a hard carrying case, which is awesome because that saves you $20+!

Comparison of 4 Brother Sewing Machines Great for Beginners

Here is an overview of four Brother machines that are easy to use, affordably priced, and lightweight and portable.

	Brother cs6000i	Brother XR9500PRW	Brother XM2701	Brother XM1010
Built-In Stitches	60	100	27	10
Easy Buttonholes	7, 1-step	8, 1-step	1, 1-step	, 1-step
Needle Threader	Automatic	Automatic	Automatic	Automatic
Slider Speed Control	Yes	Yes	No	No
Thread Cutter	Yes	Yes	No	No
Max Speed	800	850	800	750
Quilting Features	Yes	Yes	No	No
Hard Cover Included?	Yes	Yes	No	No
Presser Feet Included	9	6	6	4
Weight	13 lbs	9.92 lbs	12.6 lbs	10.8 lbs
Current Price

Below is a more in-depth review of the features and specs of each machine

Brother cs6000i 60-Stitch Computerized Sewing Machine

This is the best selling sewing machine on Amazon and understandably so. This is a value packed machine – it is affordably priced and it has tons of features.

The cs6000i is a computerized sewing machine. All of the stitches are clearly labeled on the front and you choose your stitch with a touch of the button using the lcd display.

Overall Features:

• 60 built-in stitches and 7 styles of 1-step auto-size buttonholes
• Automatic needle threader
• Easy bobbin winding system
• Variable speed control
• Brightly Lit LED Work Area
• Built-in free arm for sewing cuffs and sleeves
• Quick set drop-in bobbin
• Built-in accessory storage

This sewing machine also has many quilting features, which makes it a perfect machine to buy as a beginner and have for years while you increase your sewing skills.

Quilting Features Include:

• An oversized table for r larger quilting projects
• Walking foot allows for smoother feeding of multiple layers of fabric
• Included quilting foot for accurate placement of your quilting stitches
• Quilting guide to helps sew evenly spaced rows of quilting stitches

The cs6000i comes with 9 presser feet and a hard protective case, which is a nice bonus that will save you money right away.

With all of these features, quilting features, additional accessories, and the price you can easily see why this is a top selling machine and to top it off it is very affordably priced. I think this is a great machine for beginners.

Brother XR9500PRW Project Runway™ Limited Edition Computerized Sewing Machine

The Brother XR9500PRW is a versatile, feature-packed sewing machine that is affordably priced. Like the cs6000i above, it also comes with additional quilting features.

This sewing machine has 100 built-in stitches, which includes 55 alphanumeric stitches for lettering or basic monogramming

This is a computerized machine so you choose your stitch using the lcd display and touch button controls.

Overall Features:

• 100 Unique Built-in Stitches, Including 8 Styles of 1-Step Auto-size Buttonholes
• 140 Stitch Functions
• Super Easy Bobbin Winding System
• Free Arm for Sewing Cuffs and Sleeves
• Brightly Lit LED Work Area
• Full Assortment of Accessories
• Needle Position Button
• Easy-to-use Needle Threading System
• Jam Resistant Drop-in Top Bobbin

Quilting Features:

• Oversized wide table to accommodate your larger quilt projects
• Built-in quilting stitches
• There are no quilting feet included but you can buy them separately

Like the cs6000i above, this machine also comes with a hard carrying case, which will save you $20+ right away.

Brother XM2701 Lightweight, Full-Featured Sewing Machine

The Brother XM2701 is a simple and easy to use machine that is affordably priced.

This is a mechanical sewing machine so it doesn’t have any electronic controls. Instead there is a turn dial stitch selector.

Overall Features:

• 27 unique built-in stitches, including one 1-step auto-size buttonhole
• 63 stitch functions
• Brightly lit LED work area
• Automatic needle threading system
• Quick set top drop-in bobbin

It weighs just 12.6 lbs. so it is very lightweight and portable.

The XM2701 comes with 6 included presser feet – Buttonhole foot, Button sewing foot, Narrow Hemmer foot, Zipper foot, Blind Stitch foot, and Zigzag foot. It does not come with a hard cover so that is something you will want to purchase separately.

Brother XM1010

This is the simplest and the least expensive sewing machine in this bunch. The Brother XM1010 is a mechanical sewing machine with 10 unique built-in stitches and one 4-step auto-size buttonhole.

This is definitely a simple beginner sewing machine with user-friendly features and simplicity. At 10.8 lbs. it is lightweight and easily portable.

Overall Features:

• 10 unique built-in stitches, including one 4-step auto-size buttonhole
• 4 sewing feet: zigzag foot, zipper foot, buttonhole foot, button sewing foot
• Brightly lit LED work area
• Free arm for sewing cuffs and sleeves
• Quick set drop-in top bobbin system
• 6 presser feet included – Zipper foot, Blind stitch foot, Buttonhole foot, Button fitting foot, Narrow hemmer foot, Zigzag foot

This machine also has a DVD included that makes getting started easy. You can view demonstrations on everything from threading the needle to sewing buttonholes.

This machine has 6 presser feet included but no hard carrying case.

The Bottom Line on Brother Beginner Sewing Machines

Brother is a trusted brand in the sewing industry and these 4 machines are all perfect options for a beginner. Think about the features that you really want – Computerized vs. mechanical? Variable speed control? Quilting options? A hard case included? Then you can narrow down which machine is better for you.

Also, these machines are all under $200. If you have room for a bigger budget then you may want to consider additional machines. Check out my review of some fantastic sewing machines under $500, machines under $200, as well as a comparison of great lightweight portable machines that are affordably priced.

If you have any questions then leave a question in the comments below and I’ll do my best to help.

from Sewing Machine Savvy – Best Reviews and Comparisons http://www.sewingmachinesavvy.com/best-brother-sewing-machines-for-beginners/

Best Portable Lightweight Sewing Machines – My Top 5 Picks

This article will go over some of my top picks for sewing machines that are lightweight and portable, sometimes referred to as 3/4 sewing machines because of their size.

Before I get started I want to clarify the type of sewing machines I will focus on here. There are a couple different types of lightweight sewing machines. You have mini sewing machines, which typically weigh under 5 lbs (ultra portable), cost under $50 or so, and can usually be operated with AA batteries if needed. Then you have full-featured lightweight machines that weigh under 15 lbs, which is still light enough to be transported to and from sewing classes or for travel.

I am going to focus on lightweight, portable, full-featured sewing machines in this review. My top picks are based on weight since we are focusing on portability and overall features and reviews. All of these machines are under 14 lbs. Three of these are mechanical sewing machines (these are always lighter) and one is a computerized sewing machine if you wish to have the touch button controls and automatic features. Read more about computerized vs. mechanical machines if you aren’t clear on the difference.

Okay now let’s get started.

What to Look for In a Portable Sewing Machine

Obviously size is a big factor in portability. It is much easier to tote around a 12 lb sewing machine than a 20 lb machine. My main sewing machine that I’ve sewn on for years weighs about 18 lbs.

Another thing that stands out to me is having a machine that is simple and low cost. It would be devastating to drop an expensive computerized sewing machine and break or damage it – some of these machines can cost thousands of dollars.

Also, what features are a must for you? Some seamstresses have their main, heavy-duty bells and whistles machine at home that stays there and they just want to have a simple, lightweight machine to move around with. Or maybe you are going to have one and only machine but you want it to be full of as many features as you can get, yet light enough to go to sewing classes or other trips.

Top Picks for Lightweight Sewing Machines

These 5 are full-featured sewing machines from trusted brands and each of them are lightweight machines. This is an overview of the weight, various features, and the cost. Continue reading below for a more in-depth breakdown of each of these machines.

	Brother XM2701	Janome 660	Singer 2277	Singer 5400	Brother HC1850
Weight	12.6 lbs	11.6 lbs	13.6 lbs	13.6 lbs	13.2 lbs
Built-In Stitches	27	12	23	60	130
Easy Buttonholes	1, 1-step	1, 4-step	1, 1-step	4, 1-step	8, 1-step
Needle Threader	Automatic	Automatic	Automatic	Automatic	Automatic
Slider Speed Control	No	No	No	No	Yes
Thread Cutter	No	Yes	Yes	No	Yes
Max Speed	800	650	650	750	850
Presser Feet Included	6	5	3	3	8
Current Price

Brother XM2701 Lightweight, Full-Featured Sewing Machine

The Brother XM2701 is a mechanical sewing machine weighing in at just 12 lbs. and it has a full range of user friendly features that are great for beginners as well as experienced sewers. You get 27 stitch options that are clearly labeled on a convenient turn dial. There is one style of buttonhole, which could be a turnoff for those wanting various styles built-in.

Additional Features to Consider:

• Automatic needle threader makes threading your needle simple and fast
• Jam-resistant top drop-in bobbin
• Built-in free arm for sewing cuffs and sleeves
• Includes 6 quick change presser feet (buttonhole, zipper, zigzag, narrow hemmer, blind stitch and button sewing foot)

Overall the Brother XM2701 was designed for ease-of-use and portability. Reviewers are mostly happy with it saying it is lightweight and dependable. Some reviewers complained about the sensitivity of the foot pedal.

It does not have a built-in handle and it does not come with a case. The Brother Universal Sewing Machine Carrying Case would be a good investment. I own one of these for my Brother sewing machine and it was a worthwhile purchase.

Janome Jem Gold 660 12-Stitch Compact Lightweight Sewing Quilting Machine

The Janome Jem Gold 660 weighs only 11.6 lbs. so it is definitely lightweight and portable, and it has enough convenience features and stitches to satisfy a beginner as well as an experienced seamstress. There are 12 stitches to choose from using a turn dial and one 4-step buttonhole.

Features of this Machine:

• Easy reverse button
• Built-in needle threader
• Free arm
• Top loading full rotary hook bobbin
• One hand thread cutter
• Extra high presser foot lift
• 5 included presser feet (standard, buttonhole foot, overedge foot, sliding buttonhole foot, zig-zag foot)

Overall this is a great compact sewing machine from a trusted brand. Janome machines overall are known for being very well-built machines whether you are spending $100 or $1,000.

This does not have a built-in handle and it does not come with a carrying case but Janome has several options for cases and rolling trolleys. These are a worthwhile investment if you will be toting your machine from place to place.

SINGER 2277 Tradition Sewing Machine

The Singer 2277 weighs 13.6 lbs. and it has 23 built-in stitches and a fully automatic 1 step buttonhole. This is a nice lightweight, inexpensive basic sewing machine.

Additional Features:

• Automatic needle threader
• Adjustable stitch length & width
• Free arm with accessory storage
• Heavy duty metal interior frame
• Automatic reverse
• Twin needle capability
• Cabinet mountable

Overall owners of this machine are happy and say they were pleasantly surprised with the quality despite the low price. Other reviewers wished they had saved up just a little bit more to get a machine with more features.

The Singer 2277 does not have a built-in handle but you can purchase the Singer Universal Hard Carrying Case separately.

SINGER 5400 Sew Mate Sewing Machine

The Singer 5400 is the first electronic sewing machine in this list, which means it has touch button controls and some additional convenience features. This machine has 60 built-in stitches and 4 buttonholes.

Additional Features:

• Automatic needle threader
• Push button stitch selection
• 13 needle positions
• Automatic reverse
• Automatic presser foot pressure
• Extra-High presser foot lifter
• Free arm
• Heavy duty metal frame for skip free sewing
• Up to 6.5 mm stitch width

This machine does not have a built-in handle but you can purchase the Singer Universal Hard Carrying Case separately.

Brother HC1850 Computerized Sewing and Quilting Machine

The Brother HC1850 is another computerized sewing machine with convenient touch button controls. It has the most features and stitches of the machines mentioned her, yet weighs only 13.2 lbs. so it is easily portable.

With 130 built-in stitches, which includes monogramming, you have options for days. The stitches are shown on a convenient flip chart attached to front of machine and you choose your stitch with the touch of a button.

If you are looking for a portable quilting sewing machine, the Brother HC1850 is a perfect option. This particular machine has additional quilting features including a detachable wide table, spring action quilting foot, 14 quilting stitch functions, and the ability to do free-motion quilting.

Additional Features:

• Automatic needle threader
• Quick set bobbin
• Wide table for large projects
• Large backlit LCD screen
• Drop feed for free motion quilting
• 8 presser feet included (Zigzag foot, Overcasting foot, Monogramming foot, Zipper foot, Blind stitch foot, Buttonhole foot, Button sewing foot, Quilting foot)

This is the only machine in this list that has variable speed control so if that is an important feature for you (this is one of my must have features ), then the Brother HC1850 is a good fit. This has built-in handle, which makes carrying it around a breeze. You can also purchase a carrying case for protection.

Overall Summary About Portable Lightweight Sewing Machines

The machines mentioned here are great options if you are looking for a full-featured sewing machine that is light enough to comfortably take along with you to sewing classes, family trips, or other situations where you need to move your sewing machine.

Keep in mind that this is not an end all be all list. There are definitely more machines out there that fit the profile for a great lightweight sewing machine. A couple more machines that I can throw out there if you want some additional options are: Brother Project Runway CS5055PRW Electric Sewing Machine, which weighs in at 10.65 lbs. and the Singer 3333 Fashion Mate, which weighs 12.57 lbs.

I hope this comparison has helped you narrow down your choices, but keep in mind that I do not own all of these machines. Although I’ve sewn on Brother, Singer, and Janome machines, sewing machines can vary so much from brand to brand and model to model so I also highly recommend reading reviews and doing some additional research if you are undecided. This provides a lot of insight from real users. Good luck on your sewing machine shopping and I am happy to answer questions if you have any.

from Sewing Machine Savvy – Best Reviews and Comparisons http://www.sewingmachinesavvy.com/best-portable-lightweight-sewing-machines/