The Brother Innov-is F420 is a versatile sewing machine that offers a lot for both newer sewists and those with more experience. With a thoughtful set of features and solid build quality, it handles everything from everyday garment sewing to more detailed projects with ease. It’s especially appealing for users who want something more advanced than an entry-level machine but aren’t looking to invest in a top-tier model just yet.
All features of the F420 can be found in the feature table at the bottom of the review.
If you’re searching for a new sewing machine and want to see what else is available, check out our sewing machine guides to the machines we recommend right now. This includes anything from entry-level models to professional sewing machines.
Brother Innov-is F420 Sewing Machine Overview
The F420 belongs to Brother Innov-is F-Series, known for blending usability with a range of automated features. This series includes the Brother F560, F540E, F580 and of course the F420, each offering unique features suited to different aspects of sewing and embroidery. This model is fully computerized and built for general sewing, dressmaking, and light quilting. Thanks to its Square Feed Drive System (SFDS), fabric feeds smoothly and evenly under the needle – even when you’re working with thicker or layered materials.
Helpful additions like the automatic needle threader, start/stop button, and thread cutter are built in to simplify everyday tasks. And if you prefer hands-free operation, it includes a knee lifter – something you usually only find on higher-end models. These details make it a practical, well-rounded option for a wide range of sewing needs.
Key Features at a Glance
- 140 built-in stitches including five types of buttonholes and lettering fonts
- 7 presser feet included for various techniques
- Automatic needle threader and thread cutter
- Start/stop button and speed control slider
- Knee lifter for hands-free presser foot control
- Backlit LCD screen with easy navigation
- Drop feed system for free-motion sewing
- Hard case for protection and portability
Stitch Quality and Sewing Performance
In use, the F420 feels smooth and reliable. The Square Feed Drive System (SFDS) gives it excellent stitch consistency across different types of fabric, whether you’re sewing lightweight cotton or something thicker like denim. Buttonholes come out clean and evenly spaced with the included buttonhole foot, and the machine adjusts tension automatically in most cases.
The start/stop button and speed control slider are especially useful for long seams or repetitive work, and the knee lifter frees up your hands when pivoting or working on bulky fabric. For free-motion sewing, lowering the feed dogs is simple, although some quilters may wish there was a wider extension table included.
Ease of Use
Setting up the F420 is simple, even if you’re not used to computerized machines. The controls are intuitive – buttons are clearly labeled, and the LCD screen helps guide you through stitch selection and adjustments. A fold-down chart at the top of the machine shows all 140 stitch options at a glance, which is helpful for quickly picking out what you need.
Threading is straightforward thanks to the built-in needle threader and guided bobbin winding system. The instruction manual is clear and well-organized, with a quick-start guide that gets you sewing within minutes. Most users will find the learning curve manageable, and the controls responsive and easy to work with.
Build Quality and Design
Weighing 8.5 kg, the F420 is on the heavier side, which makes it feel sturdy and stable while sewing – but less ideal for travel or carrying to classes. The machine has a compact, streamlined shape with minimal external buttons or dials. The overall layout feels efficient, with everything in reach and nothing in the way.
The LCD screen is bright and responsive, and small touches like the built-in storage under the needle plate help keep presser feet and tools neatly organized. The spool cover flips down to protect the thread and keeps dust out of the top threading path, a nice touch for long-term use.
Internally, the F420 runs quietly and smoothly. Stitching is consistent and jam-free with proper threading and maintenance. Brother machines tend to have a good reputation for reliability, and this one lives up to that.
When it comes to maintenance, all Brother sewing machines come with at least a three-year guarantee, which gives me peace of mind. If I ever need repairs or servicing, it’s easy to find support at sewing machine centers across the country. So, if any issues come up, I’m confident they’ll be simple to take care of.
Price and Value
With a typical price around £599, the Brother Innov-is F420 sits in the mid-range bracket. For what it offers – automated features, high stitch quality, and a solid build – it’s a strong value. It’s well-suited for users who want more capability than a basic machine but aren’t ready for a high-end quilting or embroidery model.
Accessories
The F420 comes with a well-rounded set of accessories that will suit most sewing needs out of the box:
- 7 presser feet: Zigzag (on machine), Overcasting, Monogramming, Zipper, Blind stitch, Buttonhole, Button fitting
- Needle set + twin needle
- 4 bobbins (one pre-loaded)
- Seam ripper, eyelet punch, cleaning brush
- Screwdrivers (standard and disc-style)
- Spool caps (S/M/L), extra spool pin, spool net
- Knee lifter
- Foot pedal controller
- Hard case for transport/storage
- Grid sheet set and accessory bag
The selection covers general sewing, decorative stitching, and basic garment work. While an extension table and a few additional feet would be nice to have, they’re available separately if needed.
Summary: Who’s the Brother Innov-is F420 Best For
The Brother Innov-is F420 is a dependable, feature-rich sewing machine that suits a wide audience. It’s user-friendly enough for motivated beginners but includes enough tools and smart design touches to satisfy experienced users too.
If you need a quiet, sturdy machine that can handle both everyday and more intricate projects, this one’s a solid pick. While quilters may miss the extension table and travelers might want something lighter, those are small trade-offs for what you get in performance and usability. Overall, the F420 offers a great mix of control, features, and reliability.
Feature List of the Brother Innov-is F420
Below is a list of all the features of the Brother Innov-is F420. This table lists all the key functionalities of the machine, from its stitching capabilities to built in settings. You can easily sort through the features to find exactly what you need, making it simpler to understand if the F420 is the sewing machine for you.
| Features | Innov-is F420 Sewing Machine |
|---|---|
| Type of screen | LCD screen |
| Display size | 3.5“ |
| Number of sewing stitches * | 140 |
| Buttonholes | 10 |
| Built-in lettering styles (sewing) | 5 (capital letters only) |
| Built-in lettering styles (embroidery) | – |
| Built-in embroidery patterns | – |
| Built-in embroidery frame patterns | – |
| Needle threading system | advanced |
| Automatic thread cutter | ✔ |
| Colour sorting | – |
| Jump stitch trimmer | – |
| SFDS (Square Feed Drive System) | ✔ |
| Adjustable presser foot pressure | electronic |
| Lockstitch button | ✔ |
| Multi-directional sewing | – |
| Adjustable thread tension | manual |
| Electronic slide speed control | ✔ |
| Combine stitches | ✔ |
| Speed control customised for zig-zag width | ✔ |
| Repeated single sewing | ✔ |
| Automatic reverse / reinforcement stitch | ✔ |
| Mirror imaging | ✔ |
| My Custom Stitch™ | ✔ |
| Realistic preview of the patterns | – |
| Patterns – size change, rotation, mirror, … | – |
| Font size selection (L-M-S) | – |
| Text editing functions – multiple line text input | – |
| Free motion embroidery | free motion foot: optional |
| Knee lift | ✔ |
| Multi Function Foot Controller | optional |
| Mechanical dual feed (walking foot) | optional |
| USB port | – |
| Wireless connectivity | – |
Can you load the bobbin right in the bobbin holder? Does the machine adjust to fabric layers with no problem?