Amazing, right out of the box, felting machine
930323
I think that I am in love:-) I purchased this felting machine this week and already have used it daily. Open the box and literally felt with it. I bought the small hand held felting machine last month and though I use it also, nothing is like its big sister felter.

Instead of having 5 needles, this one has 12 which means you can felt much faster. I am working on a project right now and love the way this machine works. You can felt top side or bottom to have fibers float through your work. Absolutely love it and now wonder why I waited so long to purchase one.
111740
I HAD STUDIOUSLY AVOIDED computerized machines, and smart daughter ignored my plea of being too old to learn new machine... age 80 - and got me this machine as a gift.  I absolutely love it... am still learning the feet, stitches and attachments, but absolutely thrilled with it!  Particularly love the push-button start-stop - took me zero time to adjust, and my tired old bones and muscles appreciate not having to strain with the raised foot over a oot pedal!  I've never even unwrapped that pedal!  Thank you Brother...and thank you community for helping me work out the couple kinks.  The only other snag that I had to overcome was making sure the needle position was right for self-threading... another feature that I love!
2540212
I am a want-to-be crafter.  I have the creativity but not the patience nor skill to do some of the things I want to try.  I think that defines who Brother had in mind when creating this cutting machine.

A serious and skilled crafter may feel it is not precise enough or capable enough.  Someone with no imagination may find it a bit overwhelming.  But someone who has a moderate degree of tech friendliness and is not super demanding for perfection will find it fun to use and after a short time will consider it an everyday appliance as much as their coffee maker or toaster.

The first impression upon unpacking the box is that there are a lot of parts and pieces and even more adjustments and settings and the included documentation is absolutely useless in figuring it all out.  The first few minutes can be frustrating, especially if you have never used a similar device (most of us?)

I highly recommend before even opening the box to go to the Brother website and start watching their excellent instructional videos (32 of them at last count).  The first videos cover the all-important initial setup and do a far better job of it than the printed "manual".  Once you have it set up, keep watching the videos until you feel proficient at using the device.  I think Brother could have done a better job of pointing the buyer to the videos, maybe with a bold bright label right on the unit.

So after it is set up, how does it work?  Again, keep in mind that I am a novice who is used to cutting things with scissors and an X-Acto knife.  I am very satisfied with how it cuts a variety of types of paper, foils and lightweight plastics.  It struggles making a clean cut on some fabrics, especially when the pattern is complicated.  That is true with virtually any knife-edge cutter and not a fault exclusively to this product.  If you cut a lot of fabric it would be wise to replace the blade a little more often.

The entire idea of being able to scan an image and then have the device cut it for you is worth the price, if you are willing to accept the limitations that it can't do everything perfectly.  I know it's not perfect but is certainly far more capable of doing this task better than I could do without it.

Bottom line:  it is a tool, not a cure-all.  If you keep your expectations reasonable and use it to supplement other crafting tools I think you will be quite happy to using the Brother ScanNCut.
4022425
I took up sewing for the first time at the age of 69. I had a Brother machine which worked well, but I wasn't able to slow it down enough to learn properly. This Singer is the perfect machine for all levels. Being able to adjust the maximum speed automatically made  the difference for me, and I found all the operations easy to learn. With the computerized decorative stitches, I've learned "crazy quilting," and I'll be giving small art quilts as Christmas gifts this year. I couldn't be happier with it, and I'd recommend it for all levels. Now if I could only find a rotary cutter that actually works, I'd become an expert in no time. Any suggestions?
999170
Bought this for my 12 1/2-yr. old daughter who had been sewing small items by hand.  We were actually looking at another machine (didn't know the existence of this one) and saw this one listed as a "You may be interested in" on the purchase page.  It far exceeds other "first time" machines.  For example, the foot pedal is true variable speed - not just fast or slow when depressed.  That alone is worth the price.  Easy of operation.  Styling.  And all for under $100.  It is not a quiet machine, but it is not obnoxiously loud, either.  Then again, we did not pay $2000 for it.  So yes, the trade off is not an issue at all.  Could not be happier.  And Brother is a top-rated manufacturer of sewing machines, unlike some of the other brands we had never heard of.
2064381
I've been sewing on the Quantum Stylist for about 10 days now.  I purchased the machine mainly for quilt piecing and free motion quilting.  I have a Viking Designer SE that I use for regular sewing and embroidery.  I knew the Singer wasn't going to come close to the Viking in many areas BUT for the price of $330 this machine has pleasantly surprised me. It sews very smoothly and straight. It has a nice sound when sewing, not whiny or clunky at all. It stops on a dime, exactly where you want it to. I've stitched out all the stitches and all the buttonholes, all are great. I don't care for the alphabets, they aren't that pretty but would be good for making quilt back labels and the like. I love the slide on table that came with the machine, nice to have if I take the machine to classes. I will use the machine in a table with an insert when at home.

I test sewed a variety of fabrics such as fleece, lightweight wool, cotton knit, stretch velvet and even silk, the Stylist sewed them all well. I did change to the proper size needle and threads for the different fabrics before testing though. I think this is where a lot of people get into trouble with their machines - not using the proper needles/thread to match the fabric being sewn on. You generally will not get good results by using a cotton thread on thick poly fleece with a size 10 needle and 2.0 stitch length! Many will blame the machine for the poor stitches when it is just the thread/needle/stitch combo that is all that is wrong.

I like that you can move the needle left or right in tiny increments to get the seam just where it needs to be. Threading and bobbin winding are easy, the threader is just OK as it isn't as precise as some I've used, it does work but you have to work at it to make it work! The thread cutter was a very important feature for me, I have gotten so used to the one on my Viking that I cannot do without now. I thought a machine at this price to have a cutter was incredible! As a couple of other reviewers have mentioned, the cutter can be a bit off and not cut well every time it's used. I've noticed this happens most often if the needle is to the right of center such as when I have it 1/4 inch from the side of the foot for piecing quilt blocks. It will cut the top thread but not the bottom. When the needle is moved back to center or more to the left positions the cutter cuts both threads. I think maybe all it needs is a slight adjustment. However, when you purchase a sewing machine online versus at an in person dealer, there is no one to service these kinds of issues, unless of course you have a Singer authorized service center nearby, the closest to me is a 2 1/2 hr drive.

Someone previous mentioned the 'value added' feet package and the hard shell case that came with the machine but were not mentioned - what a nice surprise! Last, this is a big machine with a nice substantial feel, not dinky and lightweight like some similar priced machines I've tried. The only thing lacking with the Stylist is a knee lever presser foot lifter, I would have gladly paid more money for that one feature!  Overall I am very happy with this machine and would recommend it to anyone.
208985
It's a FABULOUS machine!!!  I really love it!  I read all the reviews on the Singer XL 580 and did so much comparison shopping, and the bottom line is this:  the Singer XL 580 is does beautiful embroidery and the sewing machine is absolutely wonderful.  I can't believe what a fantastic machine it is, and what beautiful work it does.  I was so skeptical about purchasing the machine because of the reviews, but after much research, I realized that all the negative reviews for all the machines I compared were the same:  thread breakage, needle breakage, bird nesting, etc...  The bottom line is this, you have to use the right stabilizer for the fabric, the correct thread for the embroidery and the bobbin, the correct needles, and a good embroidery design.  I purchased this machine because I really wanted the bigger hoops, and I really wanted the software to import, edit and create my own designs.  It comes with Autopunch software, Hyperfont, and Edit.  You really need the software if you want to do your own designs, and I love that I can embroider my own designs on things!  I didn't need the sewing machine, but it is such a wonderful upgrade from my old sewing machine.  I would have never thought that I would love the auto thread, auto cut, auto tie-off, and the start/stop button (instead of the peddle), but it sews like a dream.  I absolutely recommend this machine.  Attached is my very first ever embroidery with the machine (before I started understanding the need for stabilizers, correct needles, etc...)  It still came out so beautiful.
1605470
I haven't used the machine as much as I have my older ones, but I am very impressed after a few weeks of ownership.  For the price of this machine, there are a great many functions that work as well or better than my machines that cost several thou.  Needle up/down button, thread cutter, 15 needle positions, programmable decorative stitch, good lighting, more feet than I expected including a walking foot, you don't have to oil it, the motor purrs as it stitches, and there's room in the belly compartment for almost all attachments that came with it, .  (I could not fit the extra spool pin, and of course no one should try to fit the foot controller, in that small compartment.)

It also does not appear to be picky about what kinds of thread I use, and I have tested that.  It handles everything from old, slubby, brittle cotton thread to thin embroidery thread without fussing.

This is not an embroidery machine, however, but feed dogs do lower for free motion embroidery if someone has the talent.  I haven't yet tested that for free motion quilting, but that's on my near future list.  I'll try to update the review as I learn more about it.
3286994
Wow! I spent the weekend playing with my new Singer S10 Studio Singer Embroidery Machine, and I am amazed. I am no super seamstress, but this machine will sure make you look like one.

This Singer S10 is so easy to use. I did watch a number of the videos that were posted on youtube before I began playing with it, and it made set up so easy. The machine walks you through every stage of the setup process, so you shouldnt have any problems.

This Embroidery Only machine comes with 55 ready to use patterns, a memory that will store another 100 patterns and a USB port to use a flash drive or hook up to your computer. Once you install your software on your computer you will have another 2800 designs to choose from. All designs can be edited. You do not need to have a computer to operate this machine, but it will give you a wider variety of patterns to choose from. The S10 touch pad is so easy to use, you will love it.

The machine comes with a number of other features like a measurements display in inches or millimeters. You can choose from 11 languages if needed and an easy thread selection that lets you choose between 3 brands of thread. You just press the correct icon.
I am having so much fun with this machine. I would highly recommend it to anyone looking for an embroidery only machine.
4976724
Every decade or so I decide to get out the sewing machine to make something that I'm certain can't be "that hard".  With a new grandchild due any day I thought about a quilt, until I found about 2000 pieces of fabric in the kit I ordered and sent it back to go to a beginner who was going to live that long.  I finally settled upon a receiving blanket, two pieces of fabric and only straight lines to sew.  This I could handle.  I went out to my local craft store, I'd seen fabric there, bought enough for two, according to the lady who cut it for me and went home to find my sewing machine.  When it surfaced it seemed to be missing some parts, probably in a box in the garage.  I live in SE TX, too hot to hit the garage that day, so I went to Amazon, instead.  I love Amazon.  Very happy that when I hit 69 or even 65 I had  Amazon to bring me things.  Eureka! A bit of searching brought me to the Singer Start and the first machine that I've actually been able to thread and change stitches and all that good stuff.  I am delighted!  It only cost $63.00 and I've completed 8 blankets for my newly arrived granddaughter and one big 'un for her Aggie daddy. This machine is wonderful, I even used zig zag on the last one I made and I still haven't gotten through the instruction manule, probably won't, I've discovered YOU TUBE.  You can find out how to do anything on there, including how to work a Singer Start, and make at least 50 different versions of receiving blankets.  I'm addicted and am about to move on to pajama pants.  There may be fancier machines out there but ignorance is bliss and I don't miss what I don't know.  Happy sewing.  I love this machine, it's so easy.
3853544
I am a quilter and my machine was not up to the tasks I wanted to do so I decided to treat myself to a new machine.  I am a Singer person and originally ordered the GC590 which I had to return and the second one was skipping stitches so I had to return it also.  Now, I am so glad that I was shipped faulty machines.  I almost went with a Brother for my third replacement but decided to try Singer once more.  OH, am I glad I did.  The Singer 9960 is sweet.  It is smooth, quiet; absolutely sews like a dream.  Today I tried it out on some appliqu I have been putting off doing.  With this machine I will no longer have to put off the dreaded appliqu.  I found 10 videos on you tube and watched them.  They get you started enough so that if you are an experienced sewer you are ready to try anything with it.  The 9960 came with every foot you could possibly want plus it comes with a readymade extension table.  If you take the time to price the extras this machine comes with you could not buy a cheap machine and come out ahead by the time you purchased the extra feet that you need; not to mention ordering an extension table.
2951541
I already own a brother machine, that one has performed flawlessly so far, but I wanted to upgrade to an embroidery machine. Other similar machines cost twice as much, and frankly, for an amateur seamstress that seemed to much.

I have to say that this machine has surpassed my expectations. It is very easy to use (assuming you have been around a sewing machine before), and even has some accessories I ordered with the machine thinking I would need them (double needle, thread ripper, etc.). No regrets, and I don't think I'll need to upgrade any time soon.
2953701
This is a wonderful machine. The packaging was exceptional. This was the best packaged item I have ever purchased. I was able to put my machine together from the written directions. I found the video after I had completed  placing all items on my machine . The sewing machine is steel very heavy which I expected and the construction is beautiful. The directions are very clear and easy to follow . I purchased this walking foot machine because I make handbags and clothing . I needed a portable machine that I could use on heavy fabrics, and many layers of fabric. I have wanted this machine for many years . I saved enough to purchase it with the table made by Sailrite to fit this machine. I am extremely happy with this purchase.
4192198
This machine works like a champ! From thin fabric to upholstery fabrics, it sews through smoothly. I have had no issues at all so far and have had it for several months, sewing a renaissance costume. Would buy it again!

Update: I have had this machine for almost 2 years now and i love it completely. I know it like i know my car; noises, feel, etc. I have done soooo many projects, making things for people i love, with this machine. I can't recommend it enough!
824570
I rowed crew in college, and have consistently incorporated time on an ergometer (rowing machine) into my gym routine ever since. All Ive ever used was a Concept 2 (which are excellent machines by the way). When I decided to buy one for my home, I was torn between my familiarity with the Concept 2, and the beauty and reputation of a machine by WaterRower. I decided to take a chance on the WaterRower. So glad I did.

The build quality is absolutely unparalleled. Opening the box, I was struck with the obvious care and craftsmanship that went into this thing. It was a similar experience to opening up a new Mac, but made of wood. Assembly was easy enough, and the instructions are incredibly clear and thorough. The illustrations are helpful, but I love that the accompanying text is detailed and easily understood. You can really tell the product was made in America, and the instructions were written by the people who actually made the thing, not translated six times along the way.

The most important part is the rowing experience. Here too, this thing excels. I had no idea how much this rower would evoke the feeling of rowing on water, but it really does. Its actually making me nostalgic every time I use it. I wake up early before work, open my garage door, and go for a row in the cool air. Im kind of thinking of joining a rowing club because of this machine.

Long story short - if you want a quality rowing machine, and you want as close to the experience of being on the water as you can get in the comfort of your own home, you cant possibly go wrong here. I really wish Id bought one of these years ago.
2408930
Just got my machine, and I am impressed! It's beautiful. Sturdy and sleek body, seems put together well. Decent speed, lots of accessories and rich with features. I anguished for months reviewing machines and debating if I should spend the money and if the quality was worth it. Well... I think it is! If you love crafty, sewing projects you need this machine. It's too cool.
1797466
So, even though it took me nearly 4 years to get to, I've now assembled my DW7350.  It's amazing. It has predrilled holes to support my DeWalt Planer DW733.  I'm sure it could handle a miriad of tools, and I'm here today as I'm considering buying another for a scroll saw, also by DeWalt, but I have not made up my mind on that yet, nor have I tried it out...
The instructions make nearly no sense at all... they don't even mention that it has a shelf in the middle... but hey - I'm happy it does.
There's a video on the "tube about you" that has a guy putting it together - that clarified the one or two things that I was a bit hesitant about, and all in all I'm thrilled.
I would buy again, although when I purchased this, it was just over a c note, now it's 50% more (at a minimum) - and when I purchased it, people were shocked that it was as much as it is... I can't imagine it coming down again - commodity prices continue to rise, so pick one up - you won't regret it!