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 Product Review : Brother NX400 Sewing Machine

This mid-range computerized model from Brother provides functions quilters will appreciate. Equipped with an easily read display panel and a range of computerized functions, sewing projects are greatly simplified by the NX400. Featuring 294 stitches and the ability to save unique stitches to memory, this machine can handle just about any sewing task.

A great deal of information is conveniently accessible on the view panel. Sewers can monitor stitch selection, length and width, needle position, and presser foot pressure by referring to the screen.

Features

- Computerized operation
- Needle Threader
- Needle Up/Down Setting
- Embroidery Stitches
- One step buttonhole
- Drop-In bobbin
- Free Arm
- Adjustable Stitch Length and Width
- Adjustable Presser Foot Pressure
- Adjustable Needle Position
- Auto Threading
- 294 built-in stitches : 3 alphabets, 67 utility, 62 decorative stitches
- Stitch width and length : 5.0 mm length, 7 mm width
- Snap on foot attachment
- Programmable presser foot adjustment
- Knee lift
- Preset presser foot height
- 25 year limited warranty
- Machine dimensions - 21.3" x 10.6", 26.5 lbs
- Standard accessories - 13 presser feet including a walking foot, a knee lifter for the presser foot, foot controller, extra spool pin for twin needle use and an assortment of tools
- optional accessories : quilt guide, quilt foot (free motion foot), one quarter inch quilting foot, ruffler foot, edge joining foot, zig zag foot, straight stitch foot, picot foot, side cutter attachment.

Pros :

The NX400 runs quietly, yet powerfully. Those used to non-computerized machines will be surprised at the difference. Many features of this mid-range model are rather convenient for quilting. Basic features, such as the autothreader, are both practical and helpful. The knee lift, is also worth note, as it frees the hands to work with the fabric, rather than the presser foot.

The extra large sewing bed is particularly beneficial for machine quilting. Guiding multiple layers of fabric and batting is less difficult in such a roomy area. The NX400 also includes a motor powerful enough to handle multiple layers of fabric with ease.

The manual is well organized and fairly comprehensive. Given the number of stitches possible with the NX400 as well as the computerized functions, this resource helps quilters achieve the best results.

Cons :

While the NX400 performs well, the durability of its construction may not meet the expectations of prolific quilters. The design and power of this machine is probably best suited for intermediate sewers instead.

Although not always the case, the NX400 can be finicky with some fabrics, especially with slippery silks or satins. Considerable fine-tuning of the tension, needle and presser foot are required should it become an issue.

While there are a number of helpful attachments available for quilters, most are not standard with the NX400. The quilt guide, quilt foot, and one-quarter inch quilting foot must all be purchased separately. This is both a minor inconvenience as well as an additional expenditure.

Related : More Sewing Machine Reviews

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