Brother Sewing Machines - Buyers Guide
Buying a home sewing machine doesn't have to be a daunting task. To find out which machine is best for you, simply follow our buying checklist and you'll have your projects sewn up in no time.
Once you decide what kind of machine is right for you, head over to Brother showcase menu and check out our exciting range of sewing machines.
Step one - All about you
A new sewing machine is a worthwhile investment, but only if you choose one that matches your skill set. By being realistic about your usage and what you want out of your machine, you can make the right choice first time round.
For simple hem adjustments and alterations, you will need a machine that is easy to operate and that can be packed away easily.
Will you be transporting the machine from place to place? If you need to carry the machine to workshops or pack it away after use, look for a machine that is light weight and transportable
If you want to keep all your accessories within easy reach, a machine with built in storage space will help to keep you organised.
Budding sewing enthusiasts may want to kick start their new hobby with a simpler machine so should be on the look out for a quality machine with all the basic features - minimal stitch types, lightweight and long lasting.
An experienced machinist needs to look ahead at the type of projects they might want to make. It is often more cost effective to invest in a machine that can adapt to your sewing ability. Look out for machines with a wide range of functions and stitch types to keep your projects looking different every time.
Step two - Think about features
Before you buy, make a note of the features that are particularly important to you.
When taking on larger projects you will need to make sure your sewing machine has enough inner arm space to manoeuvre the fabric. Machines with large workspaces and extendable tables will make working with your larger projects easier.
Equally, look out for the term 'free arm' if you plan on trouser legs sewing and cuffs to make life a lot easier.
An automatic needle threader is also a key feature to make life that little bit easier. The automatic threader will save you time and ease your eyesight by doing all the hard work for you.
Machines with a button-hole feature allows the user to complete this tricky task with one easy feature. One-step buttonholes are achieved by turning a dial and the machines will automatically determine the opening size by placing a button in the buttonhole foot. The machine then stitches a buttonhole, without the user having to manipulate either the fabric or the machine any further.
Four-step buttonholes are also achieved by turning a dial, but different settings create different components of the buttonhole. In four steps the machines will measure the button and set the guide on the button-hole foot before sewing each side individually.
Machines with a drop in bobbin feature are ideal for those who don't want to fuss with a traditional vertical bobbin case. It also allows you to see when the thread is low through a transparent cover for extra convenience.
You might also want to look out for the seven-point feed dog system for added convenience. This feature is available on a range of different machines and is particularly useful for those who have a passion for quilting. The feed allows the fabric to be guided through the machines a lot smoother resulting in a better stitch quality.
Step three - The type of machine
Mechanical
A mechanical sewing machine offers the user all the basic functions they would need and is a great introduction to the world of sewing. Features are selected using a jog-dial and the machine is controlled by a traditional foot pedal. Simplicity doesn't mean a compromise on features as even the basic machines have multiple stitch types - including different styles and widths - automatic needle threaders and bobbin winders.
Computerised
A computerised machine is ideal for sewers who want to advance their sewing abilities. If you want precise results, a computerised machine enables you to control the exact stitch length and width. This type of machine features a wide range of stitch designs and lettering styles to create bespoke projects - some machines [hyperlinked to relevant machines] feature the option to design your own stitches. Computerised machines also feature have easy-to-use touch button control pads and LCD screens.
Sewing and embroidery
Buying a combination machine is often a cost effective investment for the more enthusiastic sewers. They offer the flexibility to sew and embroider using the same machine as well as built-in designs that help to personalise a project.
A wide range of our machines also have USB connectors so additional software can be accessed via a PC. Brother's PEDesign Next and PE-Design Plus software allows you to edit and create your own embroidery designs. Scan in your own drawings or photos and turn them into unique embroidery projects,
Home businesses might need to invest in a slighter larger machine so the bigger projects are more manageable. Embroidery machines, like Brother's PR series, feature multi-needle technology that make producing mass projects a lot easier as well as an innovative threading system - removing the need for a threading tool and reducing the risk of tangling by holding the threads straight and taut.
Users can choose from a vast selection of built-in designs and the machines are compatible with all Brother software so additional designs can be downloaded.
Quilting [hyperlinked to relevant machines] - Quilting sewing machines are specifically designed to handle the precise requirements of a quilter and include a range of features that make this hobby an art form. You will want to look out for a large work space and a knee lifter to make it easier to manoeuvre your project through the machine. The drop feed function on a quilting machine allows for free motion sewing making your project easier to handle.
A number of quilting machines feature a Continuous Automatic Pressure Sensor (ICAPS) which detects fabric thicknesses while sewing and automatically adjusts the presser foot pressure for precise and even stitching throughout your project.
Overlocker - Overlockers are finishing machines and are used to sew hems, trim excess fabrics, and overlock raw edges in one step to prevent fraying. Overlockers are ideal for simple projects like clothing alterations and sewing knitted fabrics. Brother has a range of overlocker [hyperlinked to page] machines, featuring different thread types which can eliminate puckering and rippling on the fabric. Brother overlockers include colour coded thread guides for easier threading and stitch length control.
Overlockers also include a free-arm/flat bed convertible sewing surface for easy control when overlocking cuffs and sleeves, saving time and producing professional results.
Step four - Where to buy
Instead of heading straight to a supermarket to buy your machine, it often pays to speak to an expert sewing machine dealer before you purchase to ensure that the machine has the features you require whilst also allowing you to make sure you are getting the best deal possible. Brother's sewing machine dealers can offer a wider selection of machines and will provide expert demonstrations and tuition on request.
All Brother machines come with a three year warranty, after sale service is available from an extensive network of Brother sewing machine dealers.
To find your local sewing machine dealer, go to our dealer locator or call 08444 999 444.
Jargon Buster
Bobbin - The cylinder that holds the thread, which is fed-through the needle.
LED light - provides clean and effective lighting to the sewing area while using a fraction of the power a traditional bulb uses. LED lights will last the lifetime of the machine.
Presser Foot - a standard sewing foot, designed to hold the fabric in place whilst it's being stitched.
Slide speed control - allows precise adjustment of the sewing speed whilst sewing.
Walking Foot - for use when sewing multiple layers of fabric or when matching fabric prints
Wide table - an optional accessory item to increase the working area of the machine. It makes handling large projects such as quilts or curtains easier.
Quilting Foot - a spring loaded foot which raises and lowers with the needle to allow fabric to be moved between stitches. Ideal quilting, darning and free motion stitching.
Feed Dog - saw shaped teeth that feed the fabric. As the needle stitches, the feed dogs grab the fabric, moving it under the presser foot
Drop Feed - allows the user to lower the feed dog out of the way for free motion sewing (usually for embroidery, monogramming and quilting)
Free Arm - A modification of the work table that allows cylindrical items such as trouser legs, sleeves or bags to fit over the work area as if it was an arm. Useful when sewing on pockets.