Sewing enthusiasts often debate the need for upgrading their machines, but when you find the right fit, the excitement can be undeniable. The Brother FS70WTX, with its balance of modern features and affordability, is one such machine that has piqued interest. Here, we take a closer look at this sewing machine, covering everything from unboxing to key features and its overall performance.
Overview
The Brother FS70WTX is a computerized sewing machine aimed at hobbyists and intermediate sewists. Priced at around £250, it strikes a balance between affordability and functionality. While not a high-end model, it offers plenty of features to make sewing more enjoyable and efficient.
The decision to upgrade to this model stemmed from a desire for convenience and modern features, such as the start/stop button and speed control. These small but significant updates cater to sewists who want to improve their workflow without breaking the bank.
About the Brother Brand
Brother is a well-established name in the world of sewing and crafting, known for producing reliable, user-friendly machines that cater to both beginners and seasoned sewists. With a legacy spanning over a century, the brand has consistently evolved to meet the needs of modern sewing enthusiasts. From basic models for home use to advanced machines for professional projects, Brother has built a reputation for innovation, durability, and excellent customer support. The FS70WTX is another example of their commitment to creating accessible and versatile sewing solutions.
Main Features
The Brother FS70WTX comes packed with practical features that make it a joy to use:
- Start/Stop Button: A standout feature that allows you to sew without a pedal. Ideal for sewists who prefer standing or working at unusual table heights.
- Needle Position Button: This lets you set the needle to finish in the up or down position, a handy feature for pivoting fabric or precise stitching.
- Adjustable Speed Control: Enables you to sew at your own pace, whether slow for intricate projects or fast for straight stitching.
- Top-Loading Bobbin: Simplifies the bobbin threading process with clear instructions and illustrations.
- Drop Feed: Essential for freehand embroidery and creative stitching techniques.
Stitches
The Brother FS70WTX offers 70 built-in stitches, covering:
- Utility Stitches: Great for everyday sewing needs.
- Decorative Stitches: Add flair to your projects with patterns like leaves and hearts.
- Buttonholes: A variety of automatic buttonhole styles to suit different designs.
Switching between stitches is easy with its digital display. Simply select the desired stitch number, and you’re ready to go.
Sewing Features
Ease of Use
Setting up the machine is straightforward, even for beginners. The automatic needle threader is a game-changer for those who struggle with manual threading.
Performance
The machine runs smoothly and handles different fabric types with ease. It’s particularly effective for freehand embroidery, thanks to the speed control and ability to drop the feed dogs.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Affordable price for the features included.
- Lightweight yet sturdy due to its metal chassis.
- Quiet operation compared to older models.
- Comprehensive accessories kit.
Cons:
- The included dust cover is flimsy and could be improved.
- Limited to intermediate-level features; not suitable for heavy-duty sewing.
- Instructions could be clearer for some advanced settings.
Pricing
At approximately £250, the Brother FS70WTX is competitively priced. Similar machines with fewer features often fall into the same price range, making this model a good value for money.
Warranty and Manual
The machine comes with a standard manufacturer’s warranty. Be sure to keep the receipt and register the product online for added support. The manual, while somewhat minimalistic, provides basic guidance to get started. Advanced users might need to rely on online resources for specific techniques.
Accessories
The Brother FS70WTX includes a generous array of accessories:
- Feet Attachments: Zipper foot, monogramming foot, buttonhole foot, and more.
- Needles: Standard and specialty needles.
- Seam Ripper: For fixing mistakes with ease.
- Bobbins: Extra bobbins for multiple projects.
- Quilting Table: Adds workspace for larger projects.
These additions ensure you have everything you need to begin sewing right out of the box.
Summary Brother FS70WTX
While my old sewing machine served me well for over a decade, it lacked modern conveniences like adjustable speed and a start/stop button. The Brother FS70WTX addresses these shortcomings without overcomplicating the sewing process. It’s perfect for everyday sewing, freehand embroidery, and even small quilting projects.
The decision to upgrade wasn’t just about functionality—it was about rewarding myself after a tough year. This machine brought not only improved performance but also renewed joy to my sewing hobby.
If you’re considering a sewing machine upgrade, the Brother FS70WTX is worth a look. Its thoughtful features and reasonable price make it a strong contender in the mid-range sewing machine market. Whether you’re quilting, embroidering, or just mending clothes, this machine can handle it all with ease.