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David Allen

Brother XL2600i Review

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The Brother XL2600i is a lightweight, user-friendly sewing machine. This machine has 25 built-in utility, decorative, and heirloom stitches, each outfitted with multiple stitch functions for versatility. The XL2600I features an automatic needle threader, built in thread cutter, drop-in bobbin system and a one-step, auto-size buttonholer for hassle-free insertion of one style of buttonholes.

This sewing machine employs a foot pedal to control operation and stitching speed. You can adjust thread tension with the control dial. Stitches are shown on the side of the machine for quick reference, and stitch length, stitch width, presser foot pressure, and presser foot height are preset so you can start sewing faster.

Here are some great features of the BrotherXL2600i:

  • Free-arm sewing machine with 25 built-in stitches, each with multiple stitch functions; good for novices and everyday sewing projects
  • Features needle threader, thread cutter, drop-in bobbin loading, and auto bobbin winding; 1-step auto-size buttonholer
  • 110-volt machine operates with foot pedal; light bulb for workspace illumination
  • Accessory storage built into free arm; includes 5 accessory presser feet and bilingual user’s manual
  • Measures 12-1/4 inches long by 7-3/4 inches wide by 9-3/5 inches high; limited 25-year warranty

The Brother XL2600i is a great machine, light-weight and easy to move around. The tension is very consistent and it works well with all types of fabrics including stretch fabrics, delicate knits and even jeans. It is very easy to set up and use. It comes highly recommended for those learning to sew and has more than enough bells and whistles for the average sewer.

The Top 3 Heavy Duty Sewing Machines

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Heavy duty sewing machines are in high demand because of the amount of work they are capable of doing. They are strong, sturdy and are more durable than their electric or computerized counterparts.

Heavy duty sewing machines are built to last. Most don’t rely on faulty computers or LCD screens to tell it how to function. Heavy duty sewing machines depend on their motor to get the job done.

Heavy duty sewing machines are made with metal frames and use stainless steel plates to provide the stability that the machine needs. Heavy duty sewing machines are made to last over 25 years.

The Top 3 Heavy Duty Sewing Machines-Reviews

This list includes some of the highest rated heavy duty sewing machines available. It includes the pros and cons for each sewing machine.

1. Janome HD3000

The Janome HD3000 is a simplistic design that adapts to whatever you present it. The HD3000 comes equipped with 18 simple stitches, more than enough for heavy duty projects. The sewing machine showcases snap on presser feet and a reverse stitch lever.

The Janome is also a great buy because you get everything you need from a heavy duty sewing machine at over half the price. The sewing machine weighs in under 20 pounds, giving it the stability that it needs, without taking away from its transportability.

The Pros:

  • This sewing machine can easily sew through 6 layers of denim in a snap. It can also sew through other heavy materials, such as fleece and fur.
  • The Janome offers 18 simple stitches that can be applied towards any heavy duty project. The 18 built in stitches are basic and offered to promote stability in the seam.
  • The Janome is less than 20 pounds, meaning that it is ideal for being transported. You can enjoy this Janome in your own home, or you can take it along to class with you.

The Cons:

  • There have been reports that the presser foot is very lightweight and will slip. Many people have found that placing a nonskid pad under the presser food has helped to keep it from slipping.

2. Singer 4411

The Singer 4411 is a heavy duty sewing machine for people on a tight budget. Most Singer 4411’s can be purchased for less than $130. This Singer can produce stitch speeds of up to 1,100 stitches per minute, easily allowing it to power through projects in half the time.

The heavy duty metal frame allows for less vibration during skip free sewing. The Singer comes with 11 stitches to choose from and one automatic buttonhole. The Singer is powered by a 110 volt engine, which provides more than enough power to get through even the thickest of materials.

The Pros:

  • This Singer provides drop feed for free motion sewing.
  • This 4411 comes with four different presser feet to help get you through any project

The Cons:

  • Singer is a quality brand of sewing machines that can only be used within the United States and Canada. It is not recommended for use with a voltage adapter as it can damage the machine.

3. JUKI TL-2000Qi

This quilting powerhouse easily produces over 1,500 stitches per minute, making it one of the fastest heavy duty sewing machines available.

The JUKI TL-2000Qi comes with an automatic needle threader and an extended table to allow you more time to focus on your project and less time worrying about shuffling fabric. The frame is made from aluminum cast iron, which provides the weight needed to keep the vibrations minimal.

The Pros:

  • The JUKI is fast, it can piece a quilt top in no time at all.
  • The JUKI is able to pierce through the thickest of material and hemming denim is a breeze.
  • This sewing machine is the superb choice for free motion quilting.

The Cons:

  • The JUKI weighs more than traditional sewing machines, coming close to 50 pounds, and might make portability an issue.
  • The JUKI is fast and at times can be too fast for beginners.

The Best Sewing Machines for Beginners – The Novice Guide

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What Beginners Need in a Good Sewing Machine?The thing with beginners is that most know nothing about sewing machines. They see all the specifications and have no idea what they are getting themselves into.

In fact, many times people can become discouraged from trying out sewing because of how complicated the sewing machines appear. There is a simple list of things to consider when purchasing a sewing machine.

  • When you are beginning, you don’t need hundreds of different stitches to choose from. All you need are a few of the most basic stitches to start with.
  • The accessories sound nicer than they are. There are many things that get added to more professional sewing machines to make them seem more impressive, they are not necessary.
  • Stitches per minute will determine the speed of the sewing machine. You want a machine that will complete the job quickly, but where you are able to control the machine.

The Best Sewing Machines for Beginners-Reviews:

The list includes many pros and cons for different sewing machines that have been chosen because they are equipped especially for novice sewers.

1. Janome HD1000

This heavy duty sewing machine comes with 14 of the most basic stitches to choose from.
The frame is constructed from cast iron and provides a sturdy base to eliminate the amount of vibration accumulated while the machine is in use. The Janome comes equipped with a free arm and an automatic needle threader.

The Pros

  • Despite being sturdy, the machine weighs less than 15 pounds, which allows for more transporting options.
  • The Janome provides everything that you need out of a beginning sewing machine for half the price. Many new Janome HD1000’s can be bought for less than $299.

The Cons

  • If you wish to use this sewing machine to sew through thick fabrics such as leather, additional needles will have to be purchased.
  • There have been reported issues with the bobbin feature.

2. Singer 4411

The Singer 4411 is the perfect beginner sewing machine for anyone who is on a budget. These sewing machines run less than $130, and provide everything that you need to become an accomplished sewer.

The machine is constructed from metal and has stainless steel plates to help promote stability. The machine is easy to use and can produce over 1,100 stitches per minute making it one of the fastest home sewing machines available.

You can also click here to check other heavy duty sewing machine alternatives.

The Pros

  • The Singer provides a fast and controlled stitch.
  • The Singer fits well within even the strictest of budgets.

The Cons

  • This sewing machine is only available for residents of the United States and residents of Canada.
  • This sewing machine is intended for novice operators and isn’t developed to withstand heavy duty usage.
  • Additional needles might have to be bought depending on the material being sewn.

3. Brother XL2600I

This advanced sewing machine has 25 built in stitches that can accommodate many different projects. The free arm and extended table space allow for maximum focus on your project. The different stitch patterns are shown and labelled on the machine and the stitch setting is easily adjustable, all you have to do is turn the dial.

These sewing machines also come with a limited 25 year warranty and great tech support from the Brother Company.

The Pros

  • This sewing machine comes with twin needles, bobbins, a zipper foot, and many more great accessories.
  • Many customers have reported great tech support and that the company upholds the warranty and will replace your sewing machine if there are problems.

The Cons

  • This sewing machine is not intended for use outside of the United States or Canada. This is due to the differences in electrical voltages. These sewing machines are not reliable when used with voltage adapters.
  • Additional needles will need to be purchased if you choose to attempt sewing thicker materials. It is also important to note that thicker thread will also be needed for thicker materials and will have to be purchased separately.

4. Singer 7258

This single provides a computerized sewing machine that allows faster and easier sewing. The Singer 7258 has over 100 built in stitches that allow for versatility and allow beginners to transition to intermediate operators.

The machine comes with 10 presser feet and an easy to read LCD screen. The Singer also has an auto tie off feature that will tie off the thread at the end of the seam, so you no longer have to worry about unravelling seams.

The Pros

  • This single provides 13 different needle positions.
  • The Singer comes with a 25 year limited warranty

The Cons

  • The Singer brand sewing machines are not intended for international consumers.

Top 3 Highest Rated Sewing Machines for Kids

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In order to achieve a lifelong love of something, you have to start early. This is true when it comes to sewing machines. With the appropriate adult supervision, kids can learn to operate sewing machines and learn from a young age the joys that sewing can bring.

The List of Top 3 Sewing Machines for Kids

The list provided are some of the top reviewed sewing machines designed for kids or that are simplistic enough that a child can learn from.

1. Janome 11706 Hello Kitty

This Janome sewing machine is fun and child friendly. The Hello Kitty design comes in a teal blue, which promotes gender equality and should be used to encourage boys and girls to experience sewing. The Hello Kitty has 11 built in stitches and 4 step buttonhole.

The sewing machine comes equipped with a free arm and can breeze through many child appropriate sewing crafts. The size of the sewing machine is compact and can easily be transported between homes or to sewing classes.

The Pros

  • The presser foot comes with an extra high lift option. All of the presser feet are snap on.
  • The Hello Kitty has excellent tension control and a reverse lever.
  • The Janome Hello Kitty comes in many great designs and there will be something for your child to fall in love with.
  • The instruction manual is easy and child appropriate. You and your child should have no difficulties figuring out how everything works with this sewing machine.

The Cons

  • This product doesn’t come with finger guards; however, the needles up position doesn’t rise high enough to really warrant the need for one.
  • Additional needles will need to be purchased. Make a note to show your kid how to determine the type of needle they need for certain fabrics.

2. Brother Project Runway CS5055PRW

This sewing machine is designed to spark creativity in young minds. The machine comes with 50 built in stitches and is able to sew through thick material like denim and fur. The Project Runway weights less than 15 pounds, making it perfect to take to class.

This option is superb for free motion stitching and can accommodate many projects. The Project Runway machine can achieve up to 850 stitches per minute, which is the perfect speed your kids and teenagers.

The Pros

  • The Project Runway sewing machine has a built in LCD display screen that allows stitch selection to be easier than ever. The stitch chart is also conveniently available on the side of the sewing machine.
  • The work area is well lit with LED lights and is great when sewing darker materials.
  • The numerous stitches come in many great and fun patterns. There are decorative stitch functions where you can make snowflakes, leaves, and other decorative stitches.

The Cons

  • This sewing machine is intended for beginners and kids. It is not intended to hold up to heavy duty workloads.
  • This sewing machine shouldn’t be used with a voltage adapter as it can cause issues with the motor and the computerized components.

3. Michley LSS-505

This is one of the most affordable sewing machines that you can purchase for your kid. For less than $45, you can get the perfect beginner’s sewing machine. The Michley comes with 8 stitch patterns, 2 bobbins, a needle threader, 2 thread spools, and an AC adapter.

The sewing machine is capable of forward and backwards sewing and works great for smaller projects. You can use the foot pedal or rely on the machine itself to get the sewing done for you.

The Pros

  • Michley LSS-505 is a small and very straightforward sewing machine. It provides all of the basic functions that you need to learn from a sewing machine. The functions are all simple and easy to learn and the skills will transfer to more advance sewing machines in the future.
  • This machine is smaller and compact, it is perfect for homes that don’t have a lot of space such as apartments. The machine doesn’t take up much room and storage is simple.

The Cons

  • There have been some issues with threading the sewing machine. It is important to take your time and ensure that you are threading the machine correctly, otherwise it will not operate efficiently. The company website has many helpful videos for new users to help them figure out their problems.
  • This is a sewing machine for kids and beginners. It is not equipped to handle heavy duty workloads.

The 3 Best Pfaff Sewing Machines

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Pfaff is a German company that is dedicated to providing quality sewing machines. The company has been around for over 150 years and has steadily produced some of the world’s finest sewing machines.

One element that has set Pfaff apart from the rest, is that they have gotten rid of the need for a walking foot and have replaced it with their Integrated Dual Transportation that feeds fabrics through their feed dogs from the bottom and the top.

The 3 Best Pfaff Sewing Machines- Reviews

The list provided is some of the best reviewed sewing machines that have been produced by Pfaff. Included with the names are some of the aspects that make that machine unique as well as a list of pros and cons for the described machine.

1. Pfaff Creative Performance: The Best Sewing Machine for Embroidery

The Creative Performance sewing machine delivers a unique sewing machine that takes embroidery to the next level. The Pfaff design is unique and provides the operator with enough options to create works of art.

The extended work table allows you to focus on your project without having to move the fabric around too much. The sewing machine is capable of performing 9mm stitching and comes equipped with over 450 stitch choices.

The machine is automatic and no longer needs the foot control to stop and start the sewing machine. It is the superb choice for embroidery, but can handle a large array of other tasks.

The Pros:

The Creative Performance sewing machine is equipped with Pfaff’s patented Integrated Dual Transportation system that eliminates the need for walking feet.
The sewing machine allows for 450 different stitching options, which allows for a broader range in creativity.

The Cons:
The Creative Performance is on the pricier end of sewing machines and might not meet budget demands for many consumers.

2. Pfaff 1246 Industrial Sewing Machine: The Perfect Choice for Industrial Sewing Machines

The Pfaff 1246 provides everything that you need out of an industrial or heavy duty sewing machine.

The heavy metal frame allows for maximum stability and minimizes the chances of vibrations, which could lead to issues with the fabric. This industrial sewing machine can easily pierce through leather, upholstery, and a majority of thicker fabrics.

The Pros:

This sewing machine is exceptional at stitching through some of the thickest fabrics. The sewing machine will cut production time in half.

The Cons:

This is an industrial sewing machine and it is intended for industrial use. It is not intended to be used for anything less than industrial usage.
The weight of the machine makes portability almost impossible. You will need to have a workspace dedicated to this industrial machine.

3. Pfaff Ambition Essential: The Perfect Sewing Machine for Teenagers

We all know those teenagers that love to make their own clothing or that just like to make different things. This sewing machine provides everything a teenager would need in order to bring out their creativity.

The Ambition provides an extended table area, which allows you to spread out your project and work on more without always having to stop and reposition the fabric. The Ambition comes equipped with 110 built in stitches, which are sure to provide your teenager with everything they need to make their ideas come to life.

The Ambition sewing machine also comes with two LED light sources so that your project area is always well lit and you don’t miss a stitch due to bad lighting. The Ambition Essential also comes equipped with monogramming capabilities.

The Pros:

  • The Ambition Essential sewing machine is equipped with Pfaff’s patented Integrated Dual Transportation system that eliminates the need for walking feet and allows for quicker sewing.
  • This sewing machine promotes free motion sewing. It is as simple as attaching another foot onto the sewing machine to enjoy free motion sewing.
  • This Pfaff sewing machine also boasts a feature known as immediate tie off. This feature will allow the machine to tie of the thread once it has reached the end of its seam. This function makes projects easier as you are not constantly having to worry about seams coming unraveled because they have all been securely tied off.

The Cons:

  • The monogramming capability is limited to 4 fonts, which might cause issues for teenagers or sewing beginners with slightly more creative signatures.
  • The Ambition sewing machine is on the pricier end of sewing machines because it is made within a German company. This price might not conform to your budget.

The 5 Best Singer Sewing Machines in 2019

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Singer is a popular name in the sewing world. Singer helped manufacture some of the world’s first sewing machines. They have patented different parts of the sewing machine and have come up with new ways to revolutionize how we approach sewing.

Singer is a company that is dedicated to producing the very best in sewing machines without costing a small fortune. Singer is a name that people can trust for reliability and great customer appreciation and service.

The Best Singer Sewing Machines-Reviews

The list includes some of the highest rated Singer sewing machines available. The list also provides details about each machine, including some of the pros and cons about the sewing machine.

1. Singer 9340: The Sewing Machine for People Who Like Multiple Stitches

The Singer 9340 is a computerized sewing machine that provides over 340 stitches to choose from. These built in stitches are perfect for accomplishing a variety of sewing tasks and allow the operator more creativity than traditional sewing machines.

The 9340 has an LCD screen that clearly displays the stitches in an easy to use format and holds memory slots for up to 20 different entries. The lightweight design makes portability easier than ever.

The Pros

  • This Singer sewing machine comes with a programmable needle. This allows the needle to stop higher for easier access to the cloth and allows it to stop lower to help with corners and intricate designs.
  • The 9340 comes with an extended table for more workspace and greater projects. This extended workspace is an optimal choice for quilting and large projects.
  • The system comes with an automatic needle threader and 340 stitches. The stitches are all easy to find and use through the computerized system.

The Cons:

  • The lightweight design is more susceptible to vibration which can cause issues when sewing intricate patterns.
  • This sewing machine is not available outside of Canada or the United States. This is due to the specific motor that Singer employs in their sewing machines. With this being mentioned, international shipping is not available.

2. Singer 4423 Heavy Duty: The Best Sewing Machine When You Need Durability

The Singer 4423 is the perfect choice when you need durability. The frame for this sewing machine is composed of metal and stainless steel protecting the machine from vibration and provides a skip free experience.

The frame provides a heavy base and the foundation you need to complete large projects. Even with its heavier exterior, the Singer 4423 is still able to produce over 1100 stitches per minute, an impressive speed for home sewing machines.

Singer 4423 comes with a row of sewing machines extend special best weight materials that affect the development and completeness of the household and facilitate your sewing business. But this machine has the capability and capacity that is better than a special other sewing machine heavy materials.

The 4423 comes equipped with 23 different stitches and a 110 volt engine that will power through any sewing project.

The Pros:

  • The heavy duty frame weighs less than 20 pounds, giving the machine stability while still allowing it to be portable.
  • The 4423 comes with an automatic needle threader which is a useful feature for both beginners and professional sewers.
  • The Singer 4423 is a heavy duty sewing machine that can be purchased for less than $200.

The Cons:

  • This sewing machine is only usable within the United States and Canada
  • This product does not come with a carrying case. Carrying cases will have to be purchased separately.

with stainless steel bed plate, strong motor that makes this Singer 4423 can work harder, heavy metal frame interior which makes this machine more durable, and an extra high-speed can makes your job finished without wasting more time, this sewing machines make it get predicate ‘lifetime machine’ and sewing machines are much appreciated to overcome the tailoring with a thick and heavy materials. Such as denim, jeans, quilts, and other clothing made with ingredients that have above average thickness.

Convenience features include drop-in coil, automatic needle threader that allows you to not always set the needle and thread each time you start a job sewing. Fully automated with a single step. Sewing machine that truly understands your busy!

Adjustable stitch length and width that will be your sewing clothes, drop-feed for free motion stitching which adds a new dimension of convenience to seriously like 23 Stitch sewing patterns. Including basic pattern, stretch, and decorative. so you do not need to have different machines for different stitching patterns. Make savings for you and the early stages of your business.

Free arm equipped with an accessory storage. Which accessories including standard accessories including Presser Feet (All Purpose, figure, Sewing Button, Zipper), quilting / stitch guide, power cord, screwdriver, lint brush / roller stitch, coil, instruction manual, needles and spool cap. What a complete equipment in a sewing machine ever.

However, you will have a problem with SINGER 4423 when try to handle multiple layers denim in the lining, SINGER 4423 will started knocking loudly and then get a few time stopped completly when sewing ove a bulk seam. So i think you can’t use SINGER 4423 for heavy duty machine but if you only want to use 9 layers of denim SINGER 4423 is ok for you.

With Singer 4423 sewing machine, you will not feel working on stitching with heavy material, because this machine really makes you feel light and comfortable in doing while sewing. I think the feature and affordability, with appearance of Singer 4423 make it worth the purchase for someone beginning to learn.

3. Singer 7258: The All Purpose Sewing

This computerized 100 stitch sewing machine provides everything that you need to get all your projects done. The process is made even easier with a handy LCD screen that clearly displays the different stitch pattern and is easy to adjust.

The 110 volt engine will power through even the toughest of materials. The whole system weighs less than 20 pounds, which allows the machine to be transported anywhere it is needed, including your sewing class.

The Pros

  • This sewing machine comes equipped with an automatic threader which is a great help for beginners.
  • The Singer 7258 comes with an automatic on and off switch as well as speed controls to give the operator complete control over the sewing machine without having to turn numerous knobs.
  • The 7258 is made with stainless steel and has a metal frame. This promotes stability throughout the whole sewing machine.

The Cons

  • This product is not eligible for international shipping. It will only work within the United States and Canada.

4. Singer 2259 Traditional: The Perfect Sewing Machine for Beginners

The Singer 2259 is everything that a beginner sewer needs in a machine. The first thing is that it is affordable coming in under $100.

The 19 built in stitches gives the machine just enough diversity without overwhelming the user with too many choices. While the sewing machine is basic, it can still complete an array of different tasks such as home décor and hemming. All of the controls are done through different knobs which are all labelled.

The Singer 2259 Traditional also comes with its own small storage space to store additional accessories that come with the sewing machine.

The Pros:

  • The Singer 2259 Traditional provides everything that you need to get started in sewing at an affordable price.
  • The 2259 has 19 built in stitches that can cover a large array of different projects, even quilting.
  • The heavy duty frame provides stability and helps to minimize the amount of vibration through the sewing machine when it is in use.

The Cons:

  • With the specialized motor, this sewing machine is not available outside of the United States or Canada.
    There have been a few reported issues with the machine jamming.

5. Singer S18 Studio: The Professional Choice in Sewing Machines

The Singer S18 provides a quality professional grade sewing machine at an affordable price. The S18 boasts over 400 different stitches 7 buttonholes. The Studio also provides operators with more workspace so that the operator can spend more time on sewing, less time on arranging the garments.

The Singer S18 Studio has a LCD screen that displays the different stitch and speed options in an easy to use format. The Studio has an automatic needle threader, presser foot sensors, and thread trimmer.

The Studio is lightweight coming in at under 30 pounds, which provides the stability you want without having to sacrifice portability. The creative possibilities are endless with the Singer S18 Studio sewing machine.

The Pros:

  • The computer component of the Studio allows you to combine different stitch patterns and store up to 50 of these patters to be recalled at the touch of a button. This is a great feature when you are looking for a uniform stitch.
  • The bobbin winding system is automatic which allows for a less stressful experience.
  • The Studio has an extended table work space that allows for larger projects. This option is exceptional when you are working on piecing together quilts or large draperies.
  • The Studio has many additional optional features that can help you customize your sewing machine to meet your particular needs.

    • The Cons:

    • This produce is not available outside of the United States or Canada. This is due to the specialized sewing machine motor.
    • The sewing machine is on the pricier end of sewing machines as it is intended for heavy duty sewing usage.