Brother: 60 Built-in Stitches: Full Review

Brother is a world-leading electronics brand that has been producing sewing machines and other home and office products for over 100 years. Founded in Japan in 1908 and now headquartered in New Jersey, Brother sells its innovative products in over 100 countries worldwide.

Known for its reliable and user-friendly sewing machines, Brother has a long history of innovation in the sewing and craft space. They were one of the first companies to introduce computerized sewing machines in the late 1980s. Today, Brother's line of computerized sewing machines are packed with features, yet easy to operate even for beginner sewers.

The CS5055 is one of Brother's newest computerized sewing machine models. With 50 built-in stitches, an LCD screen, and 7 different presser feet included, it offers great value in its price range. In this review, we'll take a close look at the key features and performance of the Brother CS5055 to see how it stacks up for both new and experienced sewers.

Overview

The Brother CS5055 Computerized Sewing Machine is an affordable yet powerful home sewing machine. This model features 60 built-in stitches, including 7 auto-size buttonholes, and an LCD display screen. With a maximum sewing speed of 850 stitches per minute, the CS5055 can handle most sewing projects with ease.

Some of the key features of the Brother CS5055 include:

• 60 built-in stitches - decorative, quilting, heirloom, and more
• 7 one-step auto-size buttonholes
• LCD display screen
• 850 stitches per minute maximum sewing speed
• Automatic needle threader
• Drop-in top bobbin
• Adjustable sewing speed control
• Built-in free arm for sewing cuffs and sleeves

This computerized sewing machine comes with a wide range of accessories, making it versatile for sewing, quilting, crafts, home decor and more. The CS5055 offers user-friendly operation and convenience features for both beginner and experienced sewers.

Another excellent option to consider is the Brother CP100X: Computerized Sewing and Quilting Machine. The CP100X is designed for both sewing and quilting, offering advanced features like 100 built-in stitches, automated threading, and a robust motor capable of handling thicker fabrics. Ideal for serious crafters, this model ensures precision and ease with its intuitive LCD display and wide table for larger projects.

Design

The Brother CS5055 Computerized Sewing Machine has a sleek, modern design with a white finish. It measures approximately 16.5 x 7.3 x 12 inches, so it has a relatively compact footprint that doesn't take up too much space. The total weight of the machine is about 13 pounds, making it lightweight enough to transport between rooms or take to sewing classes.

The white finish gives it a clean, minimalist look that would fit well in most home décors. The body contains smooth curves and rounded edges for an approachable and user-friendly appearance. All the stitch selection and settings are cleanly integrated on an LCD screen and easy-to-use button pads. Overall, the machine combines simplicity and practicality in its physical design. It has a professional enough look for advanced sewers, yet is approachable for beginners.

Another noteworthy product is the Brother XR3774: 37 Built-in Stitches, which offers a diverse array of 37 built-in stitches. These stitches include decorative, utility, and heirloom options, giving users a broad spectrum of choices for various sewing projects. The machine is equipped with features such as a one-step buttonhole, an automatic needle threader, and an easy-to-use stitch selector dial that makes navigating the stitches simple, efficient, and user-friendly. The XR3774 is an ideal choice for beginners and experienced sewers alike due to its combination of functionality and ease of use.

Stitches

The Brother CS5055 computerized sewing machine comes with 60 built-in stitches, giving you plenty of options for your sewing projects. It has stitches for decorative sewing like satin stitches, heirloom stitches, cross stitches and quilt stitches. It also includes stitches for garment sewing, including straight, zigzag, blind hem, buttonhole and stretch stitches.

Having 60 built-in stitches allows you to handle a wide variety of fabrics and sewing techniques without needing to manually change stitch settings. The machine selects the appropriate stitch length and width for each stitch type you choose. With just a few button presses, you can select the perfect stitch for hemming denim, adding applique, sewing knits or creating buttonholes.

The stretch stitches are particularly useful when working with knit fabrics, as they provide the right amount of give to prevent seams from popping when the fabric is stretched. The machine also includes a one-step buttonhole stitch for buttonholes that are precisely sized for your buttons.

Overall, the 60 built-in stitches cover all the basics for both decorative and garment sewing. With this selection, you'll have lots of creative options for your DIY projects.

LCD Display

The Brother CS5055 sewing machine comes with a large backlit LCD display that makes it easy to view and select stitches and settings. The screen measures approximately 2.25 inches diagonally, providing ample room to clearly display information.

When powered on, the LCD shows the selected stitch number, stitch width/length, presser foot recommendation, and more. Icons light up to indicate the current settings like stitch length, needle position, presser foot pressure, and twin needle mode. The screen is very responsive when using the touch keys to adjust settings or scroll through stitches.

The display has a bright backlight that illuminates the screen, making the display easy to see even in low light conditions. The backlight has high visibility and adjusts automatically based on the ambient lighting.

Overall, the LCD display on the Brother CS5055 is well-designed with its generous size, sharp resolution, backlight, and intuitive layout. The screen provides excellent visibility and makes it straightforward to view and adjust all settings on this computerized sewing machine.

Included Feet

The Brother CS5055 sewing machine comes with 7 different presser feet to handle a variety of sewing tasks. Here's an overview of the included feet:

• Zigzag Foot - This is an all-purpose foot good for basic zigzag stitching, applique work, buttonholes and more. It has a small indentation on the underside to allow stitches to pass over thicker seams without interference.

• Buttonhole Foot - This foot has a long channel on the underside to accommodate the 5-step buttonhole stitches built into this machine. Makes professional buttonholes easy.

• Zipper Foot - The narrow design of this foot allows you to sew close to zipper coils. Great for inserting centered and invisible zippers.

• Blind Stitch Foot - Designed for blind hemming and has a guide along one side to keep stitches positioned correctly. Makes quick work of hems.

• Button Sewing Foot - Has a groove underneath to feed buttons under the foot and a side guide to easily align buttons for attaching them. No more hand-sewing buttons!

• Overcasting Foot - This foot has a small guide that keeps the edge of your fabric aligned for even overcasting stitches. Prevents fraying.

• 1/4 Inch Quilting Foot - Made specifically for piecing quilts, this foot has a guide that keeps your seam allowance accurate. Essential for quilters.

The assortment of presser feet provided with the CS5055 allow you to complete a wide variety of sewing techniques without needing to purchase additional accessories. This machine has you covered for both utility sewing and decorative projects right out of the box.

Buttons & Controls

The Brother CS5055 sewing machine has several buttons and controls that make it easy to select stitches and adjust settings. The main buttons include:

• Start/Stop Button - This large button allows you to start and stop sewing without using the foot pedal.

• Reverse Button - Pressing this button sews in reverse, which is useful for backtacking and securing the stitches.

• Needle Position Button - Use this button to raise or lower the needle when stopped. Helpful for pivoting or changing sewing direction.

• Thread Cutter Button - Automatically cuts the top and bobbin threads.

In addition to buttons, there are two knobs that adjust settings:

• Stitch Length Knob - Turn this knob to adjust the stitch length for the selected stitch pattern. Makes stitches shorter or longer.

• Stitch Width Knob - Adjusts the width of zigzag stitches by making them narrower or wider. Also adjusts needle position for straight stitches.

The buttons and knobs provide easy control while sewing for starting/stopping, securing stitches, cutting threads, and customizing stitch size.

Additional Features

The Brother CS5055 sewing machine comes with several handy additional features that make sewing projects easier.

Bobbin Winding

This sewing machine has a built-in bobbin winding system, allowing you to quickly and easily wind bobbins without needing to manually wind thread onto an empty bobbin. The bobbin winding system is fast and simple to use - just place an empty bobbin on the spindle, pull the thread through the guide and start winding. It stops automatically when the bobbin is full so you don't have to worry about overfilling.

Stitch Selection

With 60 built-in stitches, you have plenty of decorative and utility stitches to choose from for your projects. The stitches are clearly labeled and printed on the machine so you can easily select the exact stitch you need. You can choose from basic straight and zig zag stitches to more decorative stitches like scallops, leaves, flowers and more. The stitch width and length are adjustable as well for further customization.

Speed Control

The Brother CS5055 has adjustable sewing speed so you can sew at a comfortable pace. Sew slowly when learning a new technique or doing detailed work, or speed things up when doing long seams or basic construction. The speed can be controlled by a slider on the machine.

Ease of Use

The Brother CS5055 is designed to be user-friendly for both beginner and experienced sewers.

Setup

Setting up the CS5055 is straightforward. It comes with an instruction manual that provides clear directions for getting started. The machine snaps into place easily and the feet are simple to attach. It's ready to thread and start sewing right out of the box.

Learning Curve

The learning curve on the CS5055 is gentle, even for someone who has never used a computerized sewing machine before. The LCD screen provides step-by-step guidance for selecting stitches and settings. There are also built-in tutorials that walk you through how to use the various stitches and functions.

The machine comes with a quick start guide that explains the basic operations clearly. Between the on-screen tutorials, quick start guide and instruction manual, most users should be able to get sewing without too much difficulty. The machine is intuitive enough that beginners can learn as they go.

For more experienced sewers, it may take just a project or two to get the hang of the CS5055's settings and features. But the learning curve is manageable, especially for those already familiar with computerized machines. A little time experimenting with stitches and settings is enough to get comfortable with the CS5055.

Pros & Cons

The Brother CS5055 sewing machine has many benefits but also some downsides to consider.

Pros:

• 50 built-in stitches including utility, heirloom, quilting and decorative stitches provide versatility for sewing projects
• Easy-to-read backlit LCD display shows selected stitch settings
• Automatic needle threader saves time and frustration
• Includes 7 sewing feet for different techniques like zipper insertion and buttonhole sewing
• Jam resistant drop-in bobbin is easy to insert and remove
• Automatic bobbin winding stops when bobbin is full
• Adjustable sewing speed allows you to sew slowly or quickly
• Easy stitch selection by pressing buttons
• Free arm for sewing sleeves, pant legs or other cylindrical items

Cons:

• Smaller work area due to compact size
• No automatic thread cutter
• Lower maximum sewing speed of 800 stitches per minute compared to other machines
• Limited stitch editing capabilities
• No built-in sewing lettering

Alternatives:

Other entry-level sewing machines to consider around the same price point include the Singer Start 1304 with 97 stitches or the Janome 2212 with 12 stitches. More advanced sewers may want to look at mid-range options like the Janome HD3000 heavy duty sewing machine or Juki HZL-F300. Testing different machines in person is recommended to get a feel for features and stitch quality.