Monogramming Sewing Machines – In-Depth Reviews

I f you are one of those people who want to personalize craft ideas, you probably know how hard is it to create various projects, including monogramming quilts for birthday gifts and anniversaries. However, all these projects can be completed with the right beginner-friendly monogramming sewing machine.

To assist you in finding the right machine, we have gone through thorough research to round up the best models this market has to offer. In the following, we will present you with these top-tier sewing machines, all while revising and rating the products according to their performance quality.

Top 6 Monogramming Sewing Machines Compared

Photo	Product	Maximum Speed	Number of Built-in Stitches	Number of Lettering Fonts	Buttonholes Styles	Built-in LED Light	Price
Best Overall	1. Brother Project Runway PC420PRW	850 stitches per minute	294	3	10		Check Price
Best for Features	2. Brother Computerized Sewing SE1900	850 stitches per minute	240	11	8		Check Price
Editor’s Choice	3. Singer Futura XL400	850 stitches per minute	30 built-in sewing stitches and 125 built-in embroidery designs	5	2		Check Price
Best for the Money	4. Laura Ashley CX155LA	850 stitches per minute	155	1	8		Check Price
Best for Beginners	5. Brother XR9500PRW	850 stitches per minute	100	1	8		Check Price
Best for Embroidery	6. Brother PE535	400 stitches per minute	80	9	N/A		Check Price

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1. Brother Project Runway PC420PRW

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What makes it the most sought-after product yet is that it comes with abundant stitch options that let you complete any sewing project you might take up.

Sewing abilities

If you are interested in acquiring a computerized machine, this is your go-to. The PC420PRW comprises 294 stitches, 3 lettering styles, and 10 styles of one-step auto-size buttonholes. The width of the stitch measures 7 millimeters, whereas the length is 5 millimeters in size. The sky is the limit when you use it seeing how it lets you get creative and add monograms on items like pillows, draperies, blankets, bedding covers, bathrobes, or napkins.

Unique features

The backlit LCD is likely the standout feature seeing how it makes it straightforward to select the appropriate stitch style, change and adjust stitch length and width as needed, even select the type of presser foot you intend to use. The automatic needle threader is just as useful in view of the fact that it rids you of the tiring and time-consuming task. Moreover, the unit is fitted with 6-point feed dogs that permit sewing different fabrics.

The adjustable speed control serves an obvious purpose, more precisely allowing you full control over the sewing speed to work at the pace you feel most comfortable with. Of course, we cannot end the list without highlighting the automatic thread trimmer that cuts the upper and lower thread at the end of each project.

User-friendly

Despite the multitude of features that it integrates, using it is quite simplistic, so don’t expect to have any difficulty navigating the settings. It even comprises an easy bobbin winding system that activates once you set the thread in position. Moreover, the LCD amplifies user-friendliness seeing how with a simple touch you can select and adjust any setting.

Design

The monogramming area is not the largest, which can be problematic depending on how you intend to use it. Nonetheless, it suits those who don’t need a vast work area, so this is not necessarily a deal-breaker. The machine measures 17.3” by 7.9” by 11.4” to occupy as little space as possible, and it weighs a mere 26 pounds so that you can relocate it without much difficulty.

Accessories

These include a knee lifter, needle set, twin needle, seam ripper, cleaning brush, eyelet punch, spool caps, screwdrivers, and even a carry case for safe storage and transportation.

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2. Brother Computerized Sewing SE1900

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This machine comprises a total of 240 stitches to pick from, as well as 10 frame shapes, 11 fonts (7 of which are English, 3 Japanese, and 1 Cyrillic), and multiple import options. Furthermore, it comprises 8 sewing feet, so you can utilize it for monogramming, zigzag, zipper, embroidery, and button fitting. Equally important, the large 5” by 7” embroidery area permits you to follow through with small and large projects alike.

The 3.2” color LCD screen lets you modify the color palette and other settings without squinting your eyes. The 138 embroidery designs comprise 10 frame forms and 14 stitch patterns. You can import all of your preferred designs through the USB port. It features LED lighting that illuminates your work area, so you can sew even when the light in the room is dim.

The automatic needle threader spares time and protects you from eye strain. Furthermore, the company provides backing against defects for 25 years as of making the acquisition. During this time, you also enjoy free customer service, so whatever questions you may have will be answered by professionals who work for Brother.

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3. Singer Futura XL400

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The computerized system and the 125 built-in embroidery designs convinced us to rank it so high as these two aspects alone stand proof of its usefulness for expert, as well as amateur use. Aside from coming in handy as an embroidery machine, it lets you add a personal touch to your projects by monogramming them. It comes with 2 fully automatic one-step buttonholes, 30 sewing stitches, as well as 5 fonts and outline lettering.

This is not where it ends though, seeing how it comprises a LED light that illuminates your work area for additional safety in use, a stitch chart that enables easy navigation for selecting your preferred setting, and a big work area that makes it suited for complex projects. It flaunts a sleek finish and durable construction that claims to last for up to 25 years. It measures 22” by 9.5” by 13” and weighs 49 pounds. Furthermore, you can pair it with your smartphone or laptop so that you may download up to 250 new designs to spice up your projects.

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4. Laura Ashley CX155LA

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For an estimated price of $200, you can get your hands on this Laura Ashley unit that is a perfect fit for anyone on a small budget. The 155 built-in stitches (55 of which are alphanumeric stitches), the lettering fonts, and 8 one-step buttonhole styles stand proof of the fact that quality is not lost in the process of manufacturing this affordable machine. The maximum stitch width provided is an estimated 7 millimeters, whereas the stitch length sits at a maximum of 5 millimeters.

With a speed of up to 850 SPM, it follows through with the project at hand in no time. It is straightforward to use, even for first-timers, mostly due to the LCD screen that displays information related to the sewing process to serve as guidance. Evidently, on the screen, you can see the settings so that you easily navigate them and select the suitable stats for the job you undergo at any moment.

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5. Brother XR9500PRW

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As it is fitted with a free arm, it provides easy access to problematic to reach areas, like hems, cuffs, and collars. The oversized table eases your work, while the LED illumination enables you to continue sewing even at late hours without problems as the work area is well lighted. This machine features 100 built-in stitches. It even comprises over 140 stitch functions, as well as 8 one-step auto-size buttonhole designs so that you can produce unique quilt projects.

But wait, there’s more! It puts at your disposal 55 alphanumeric computerized stitches and a lettering font to create basic monogramming and lettering projects. Furthermore, the backlit LCD screen provides a unique flip-stitch guide and computerized stitch selection options as it adds to its user-friendliness.

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6. Brother PE535

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If you want to get creative with your sewing projects, this Brother machine is your go-to. While it is, indeed, the preferred choice for embroidery, it also proves reliable for monogramming projects. The large color touch LCD screen is one of the main elements that add to the machine’s appeal seeing how it permits you to preview the designs in color preceding to stitching them. On the screen, it offers tips and instructions that help ensure your projects are successful even if you lack experience with sewing.

The work area is 4” by 4”, and it comes with a total of 80 built-in designs to pick from. Turning back to the topic at hand, monogramming, know that this model comes with 9 font styles for this procedure, as well as for lettering. There are 10 frame patterns comprised as well, so it is safe to say that versatility is the strong point of this product.

The built-in memory even permits you to import designs through USB, which expands its functionality. As the unit produces an estimated 400 SPM, you are sure to finish your sewing projects in no time. A procedure no one likes, not even experienced folk, is threading the needle. Worry no more as this Brother machine comprises an automatic needle threader that eliminates eye strain as it takes this bothersome task off of your hands completely. Moreover, a warranty is granted by the producing company for 25 years as of acquiring the product.

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Sewing Machines 101

While some machines are simplistic and limited in their functions, which makes them perfect for beginners, there are more complex models out there that use advanced technologies and are fitted with a multitude of features. These units are particularly designed for stitching, monogramming, embroidering, and quilting.

The monogramming sewing machine, which is the main focus of this article, comes in handy for producing clothes and art pieces. With it, you can create intricate and complex patterns that look elegant and stylish. Some of these machines use advanced technologies that permit you to connect them to the internet to download new designs so that you can expand possibilities when it comes to the projects you create.

Types

There are quite a few different machines that you can pick from, and to make sure that you opt for a product that suits your needs, you must first understand what selections are available. So, let’s see what types you can encounter:

• Traditional – A domestic model that is generally acquired for regular use, like creating clothes and standard craftwork.
• Serger – Can give an expert finish to your clothes. It is the preferred option for professionals.
• All-in-one – Specially designed for monogramming and embroidery. The professional stitching and embroidery make these units the best in the industry. However, this also reflects in their price, costing a bit more than the aforementioned types.

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Monogram Machine Advantages

Embroidery and sewing artwork involves lots of skills and creativity. Using the machine is more convenient than sewing with your hands as it is more efficient, it speeds up the process, and it’s safer than using your bare hands. If you have any doubts about this acquisition, let’s go over the advantages that come with it:

• A professional machine is more efficient to operate than sewing with bare hands. Moreover, it helps you customize anything you want. Most machines feature multiple lettering fonts that come in handy for producing different monograms and executing stitches to perfection each time. They can be programmed to create exact patterns, and as long as you set everything up correctly, the outcome will match your intended design.
• If you are the artistic type, you can create a garment using a special design. Monogramming is simplified when you use a machine with different lettering fonts. If the model you opt for features various font sizes and styles, the sky is the limit with your creations.
• A surprising advantage is that you save time and money. Moreover, if you play your cards right, you can even earn money with the help of the machine. Create unique clothes that you sell to interested buyers and you can turn a profit in no time, and all due to a hobby that easily becomes a profitable career path.

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Rating Our Picks

Feed dogs

These metal teeth are placed within the needle plate. When sewing, they grab on the material and pull it through the machine. Some units feature “Drop Feed Dogs”, which implies lowering the metal teeth into the machine. In case the unit does not come with this option, you must install a darning plate.

Buttonholes

These are the holes in which the buttons go. Some models are fitted with a foot that permits you to press the pedal and start sewing. There is also a buttonhole level positioned to the left of the presser foot. Thus, when you use the one-step buttonhole, it is pulled down.

Free arm

It provides easy access to cuffs, pants hems, and other areas that are difficult to reach. It is concealed in the extension table, and all you have to do is to pull the drawer to the left. This way, you can sew different clothes, such as shorts, trousers, and sleeves.

Bobbin

This is the plastic or metal wheel that is located underneath the needle plate. There are two main bobbin system types, more precisely the top-loading and the front-loading bobbin system. Top-loading models use plastic bobbins, whereas front-loading models come with metal bobbins. With metal bobbins, you can undergo big projects as they hold more thread. Moreover, you don’t need to remove the material when you change the bobbin.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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Conclusion

Sewing is one of the most popular hobbies worldwide due to its relaxing nature and the fact that it enables those who take it up to create unique clothes and craftwork. If you are here, a monogramming machine is what interests you, and in this article, we have provided the best options for sale at the moment. Before we reach the inevitable end of the article, let’s go over the selections we previously revised to refresh your memory and help you decide.

Best Overall: Brother Project Runway PC420PRW

If you are interested in a professional machine that comes in handy even for large projects, this is the option you must consider. The 294 stitches it comprises are delivered at couture level, and the 850 SPM indicates that no matter what projects you take up with it, you won’t waste much time following through with them. Moreover, you can use the foot controller to adjust the sewing speed as you need. Another worthwhile trait is the My Custom Stitch that lets you create your style stitch and save it in the machine’s memory to more easily create unique outfits.

Editor’s Choice: Singer Futura XL400

Although the stitch selection of the XL400 is not the vastest (it integrates 30 stitches and 123 embroidery designs), it makes up for this drawback through the rest of the qualities and features it comprises. We especially like the large extension table that lets you sew and customize projects without being forced to roll up the fabric in case it’s large-sized. It even includes a stitch chart that grants easy selection, an aspect that makes it come in handy for beginners.

Best Monogramming Sewing Machine for Money: Laura Ashley CX155LA

With an 850 SPM rating, you are sure to get your craftwork or outfit creation projects done in no time with this Laura Ashley machine. It even comprises 100 stitches and 55 alphanumeric stitches so that the sky is the limit when you use it, making it a viable option for hobbyists and professionals alike. It also comprises a variety of accessories, including a needle set, seam ripper, bobbin, and eyelet punch, which means that there are no other acquisitions required as of purchasing it. The machine is fitted with a needle threading system that eases your work, as well as LED illumination so that you can see the work area even at late hours. There are even 10 stitches that can be used on different fabrics, regardless of the material’s thickness.

Best Monogramming Sewing Machine for Beginners: Brother XR9500PRW

Due to the oversized wide table, you can use this Brother machine for quilting projects. It comes in handy for a wide range of sewing projects, including heirloom, decorative, and basic monogramming. What makes it suited for beginners, however, is the automatic needle threader that takes this eye-straining task off of your hands. But don’t let its user-friendly design trick you as this is not a limited machine when it comes to performance. On the contrary, it is one of the most impressive products available seeing how it can reach a top speed of 850 SPM.

Best Monogramming Sewing Machine for Features: Brother SE1900

For you to understand why it is the best when it comes to the features department, we must list the multitude of features that comprise it. First off, you have the 138 built-in designs that let your imagination run wild when it comes to outfit creation or modification. It even features 11 embroidery fonts and 240 sewing stitches that further expand your sewing possibilities. The powerful motor grants a maximum working speed of 850 SPM so that you get the job done as quickly as possible. As it features 10 types of auto-size buttonholes you can make horizontal, as well as vertical buttonholes. Moreover, the large LCD ensures easy access to the functions and settings of the machine to ensure simplified use.

Best Monogramming Sewing Machine for Embroidery: Brother PE535

From all the models we selected and revised in this article, we must admit that while the PE535 does an honorable job when it comes to monogramming, this beginner-friendly machine is just as well suited for embroidery projects. It features 80 built-in embroidery designs, and it even permits expansion as you can import unlimited embroidery designs via USB, so you can see why we recommend it for people who are interested in both types of sewing projects. It might not be the speediest entry in our top as it produces approximately 400 SPM, but this is more than sufficient, especially for DIYers. Needless to say, as it is manufactured by Brother, it comes with a quality guarantee regarding reliability and durability that can be seen in the 25-year warranty that accompanies the product.