BROTHER LS14 Metal Chassis Sewing Machine

Product Information

The top thread tension can be adjusted easily via the tension dial directly above the needle bar. This gives you the ability to control the strength and the balance of your stitches as and when you need it. If it’s a big deal for you to have really neat-looking, consistent stitches, go for a mid-range machine instead. Their feed dogs and motors are more powerful. My Brother innov-is a150, for example, has a consistent stitch length no matter what speed you’re going. Fleece hem There’s nothing wrong with the blind hem stitch itself, but in practice, it’s really hard to use without a blind hem foot. I think its slowest speed is manageable, but it’s still faster than computerized machines. If you want something that can go really slowly, here’s what I recommend instead. Slow speeds are useful for careful tasks like topstitching. This machine does not come with any quilting feet, but you can buy them separately. You’ll need the walking foot, quilting guide, 1/4″ foot, and free-motion foot.

It’s OK, but not amazing. You’ll get the most important stitches, but very few stretch, overcasting (=stops fraying), and embroidery ones. The blind hem stitch is really hard to use without the blind hem foot. This is not included with the machine. You have almost no control over the stitch length, width, or needle position. And the free arm is too big for small tubes. A well thought out accessory is a DVD that not only works as a guide fo the machine but also offers basic help to beginners who are trying sewing for the first time. This runs through the stitches that the machines provide and what you are able to use them for. Is Brother A Good Brand To Buy?I like the clear top-loading bobbin (also known as a drop-in bobbin). It lets you see when you’re almost out of thread. And most importantly, it doesn’t get jammed like front-loading systems do. Unlike other big brand sewing machines, this model does not come with a carry case or a means to carry it around effortlessly. Instead, they provide a vinyl dust cover that, while keeping the machine dust free, does not protect the machine during travelling. Is This The Machine For Me?

With a top-loading bobbin system, the LS14 straight away has an advantage over other sewing machines in this budget range.Overall, this is my favorite machine if you’re on a tight budget, but it’s not my favorite one for beginners who love sewing (go here to see my best sewing machine for beginners review). The Ls14s is good enough for occasional use and everyday projects. I think you’ll love how simple it is to use.

Another handy feature for beginners are the thread guides, these are arrows on the machine which basically guide you on how to thread the upper thread. I don’t think you’ll notice this issue if you’re sewing with matching thread. But if you’re topstitching with a contrasting thread, it will stand out and look messy. The thread often jumps out of the needle when you’re about to sew. It’s so annoying. You need to make your thread tails really long to avoid this, which wastes a lot of thread.Brother has been a well established business for over one hundred years and has been invested in the sewing industry for half that time. While they are now mostly known for their technological solutions in office supplies, they have transferred that technical knowledge over to their sewing machines. Brother is a trusted name in sewing with over 100 years’ experience, their products are well designed and easy to use, plus they have a good guarantee period for additional peace of mind. I would buy this as a first sewing machine for kids too, but again it wouldn’t be my first choice, it’s my budget choice. It doesn’t have speed control, or the ability to sew without the foot pedal (using the start/stop button). With various stitches and an easy to follow instructional DVD, this machine is ideal for those who are new to the sewing world. Not only is this machine easy to set up and use, but it also allows you to learn and test a variety of skills that will allow you to grow as a sewer and craftsperson.