If you like quilting and sewing, you may want to purchase a machine that can easily handle both types of projects. This is where CS7000i kicks in! It’s the updated version of the popular CS6000i.
This model is the newest offering of the well-known Brother CS series of sewing machines. It’s one of the machines that I often recommend to quilters who want a dual-function sewing machine.
It’s a value-packed that can work double-duty as a sewing unit and makes a great choice for users at any level. CS7000i has a responsive design. It also has a bunch of features that make it special.
Today, I will review this sewing machine in detail. Let’s take a close look at the performance, pros, cons, and accessories. Without further ado, let’s dive into my objective Brother CS7000i review.
Technical Specifications
| Dimensions: | 16.2 x 6.69 x 12.09 inches |
| Machine weight: | 17.91 pounds |
| Machine speed: | 850 stitches per minute |
| Built-in stitches: | 70 |
| Sewing feed included: | 10 |
| UL/CSA listed voltage: | 110V |
| Feed dogs: | 6 points |
| Warranty: | 25-year limited warranty |
Table of Contents
Brother CS7000i Review
The Brother CS7000i is a feature-rich quilting and sewing machine. It’s suitable for different objects. This sewing machine is made with both beginners and professionals in mind.
It’s loaded with convenient features including a bright backlit LCD, threading diagrams, quick-set bobbin system, automatic needle threader, adjustable speed control, etc.
You will also get 70 built-in stitches including quilting stitches, decorative stitches, and 7 styles of 1-step auto-size buttonholes. As you can see, the possibilities with this machine are endless.
There’s also a free arm which helps you sew sleeves, skinny jeans, cuffs and other hard-to-reach spots. It also has a drop feed system which enables free motion quilting and sewing.
CS7000i brings great value for money. Along with your machine, you will get a lot of sewing and quilting accessories including 10 presser feet, a wide detachable table and a hard-protective case.
There’s also a printed quick-start guide, instruction manuals in English and Spanish and a 25-year limited warranty. Plus, you will get a free customer phone and technical support.
Let’s take a closer look at the Brother cs7000i features and determine if it’s the right sewing machine for you and your sewing needs. First, let’s talk about the built-in sewing stitches.
70 Built-In Stitches
The predecessor of this sewing machine came with 60 built-in stitches. This version has 10 extra stitches. It’s loaded with 70 built-in sewing stitches.
7 Styles of 1-Step Auto-Size Buttonholes
CS7000i has 7 styles of 1-step automatic buttonholes. This is a great option that even high-end machines lack sometimes. They’re 1-step and fully automatic.
Automatic Needle Threader
If you have poor eyesight like me or you just don’t know how to thread a needle, don’t worry. This unit is loaded with an automatic needle threader.
It’s a real lifesaver. And a time-saver. It shoves the thread through the eye of the needle in a blink of an eye making it super convenient for the absolute beginners.
Adjustable Speed Controller
The Brother CS7000i sewing machine comes with a speed controller that can be utilized to slow down or speed up your stitching. It can sew up to 850 stitches per minute.
Controlling the speed is great for beginners since the maximum speed is too much for a beginner. This is a great feature because it allows you to adjust the speed to your needs.
Backlit LCD
Brother CS7000i has a large LCD screen that presents helpful information such as the stitch width, stitch length, and your selected stitch. etc.
It’s intuitive and easy to use. With the push-buttons at the right side of the screen, you can easily adjust the stitch length and pick your desired stitch.
Quick Setup Bobbin
This Brother sewing machine features a quick set-up bobbin to get started as quickly as possible which is great for beginners. Setting this machine is simple.
Hard-Protective Case
Proper and regular maintenance is the key to longevity. If you clean and oil your machine properly, it will last longer. And perform better. It includes a hardcover.
When not in use, you can cover your new sewing buddy with this hard-protective case to save it from all the dust and potential damages. It’s a helpful accessory.
10 Quilting and Sewing Feet
You will get 10 different feet for a different project. No matter if you want to make a quilt or something else with a light fabric, you have a suitable presser foot.
Quilting Table
One of the features I love about this machine is the large quilting table. If you want to make a quilt, you will need a large space. It’s detachable and easy to install.
Free Accessories
As I already mentioned, you will get a hardcover, a removable extension table for larger projects, and 10 quilting and sewing feet. You will also get a screwdriver and needles.
Endless Creativity
With this sewing machine, only the sky is your limit. It’s loaded with a free arm which allows you to sew hard-to-reach spots like cuffs, sleeves, skinny jeans, etc.
The drop feed mechanism allows you to perform free-motion sewing and quilting.
You will get a walking foot, zigzag, zipper, buttonhole, blind stitch, overcasting, monogramming, button sewing, 1/4-inch piecing, and spring action quilting foot.
The removable table makes it easier to perform on quilting projects. There’s a quilt guide included in the package which is great and helpful for absolute beginners.
Thread and fabric are the only things you’re not getting with this sewing machine. It includes everything else you need to start and complete your first project.
Some of the accessories I didn’t mention include a seam ripper, 3 bobbins, a twin needle, a spool pin, an eyelet punch, and a brush. There’s a part for accessory storage.
Therefore, you don’t have to worry about storing your accessories and sewing items elsewhere. Brother is kind enough to provide a hard-protective case as well.
Warranty and Support
This brand stands behind its products. Almost every unit is covered by a 25-year limited warranty. This is a solid warranty. Plus, there’s a free phone and online support.
Brother CS7000i Pros and Cons
Like other sewing machines on the market, and any product, in general, CS7000i has its advantages and disadvantages. Let’s summarize the main pros and cons.
Pros
- A lot of sewing and quilting feet.
- The unit threads the needle by itself automatically.
- This sewing machine comes with a well-written and clean manual that can help you set up your new sewing buddy. It’s helpful, especially for beginners.
- It comes with a transparent bobbin cover so you can keep track of the amount of thread on your bobbin. This is another great advantage.
- Unlike its predecessor with 60 built-in stitches, this model has 70 built-in sewing stitches. This is more than many other sewing machines offer at the same price.
- It’s loaded with convenient features and includes a bunch of free accessories that make it simple for beginners to use the machine. It brings great value for money.
- If you’re looking for a versatile machine that can be utilized for both quilting and sewing, look no further than this model. It’s a user-friendly, dual-function machine.
- The perfect choice for regular quilters. However, it’s also suitable for absolute beginners without any experience. It’s easy to use and includes a bilingual user manual.
- Durable and stable sewing machine with a hard-protective case.
- Start/stop button, adjustable speed and reverse sewing.
- A reasonably-priced sewing machine.
- Automatic buttonhole creator.
Cons
- The thread catches when you’re creating buttonholes. However, you can stop this from happening by making the buttonholes in medium speed and placing your hand under the thread that’s at the top of the sewing machine.
- It performs best for light sewing. It’s not suitable for heavy-duty projects or working with thicker fabrics. It’s made with basic sewing projects in mind.
- It weighs under 18 pounds, however, many buyers think that’s too much. It’s not a portable unit. If you’re looking for a lightweight unit, look elsewhere.
- The needle threader is inconsistent. You might encounter some difficulties when trying to learn how to utilize this feature. It has a learning curve for beginners.
- You might experience issues with the tension as well. You’re unable to adjust the lower tension or presser foot tension. Also, it’s not the best-looking machine.
What’s in the Box?
If you decide to buy the Brother CS7000i sewing machine, you will get a hard-protective case, 10 presser feet, a power cord, a large, removable table, and an optional foot controller.
There’s also an accessory pouch with bobbins, a twin needle, a brush, spool pin, a seam ripper, a needle set, an eyelet punch, screwdriver, quick start guide and a bilingual user manual.
Everything you need to get started comes with your sewing machine except for thread and fabric. If you want to purchase additional bobbins, purchase size 15, SA156 Brother plastic bobbins.
CS7000i is the best choice for beginners and home sewers. It’s reasonably-priced, feature-rich, and easy to use. It’s a versatile sewing machine that can help you with a lot of sewing needs.
How to Use Brother CS7000i Sewing Machine?
What’s great about Brother sewing units is that you can easily find instructions and guides. If you’re not a professional, you can always rely on the user manual or quick-start guide.
You can download both at Brother’s official site. You also have diagrams and reminders imprinted on the body of the sewing machine.
Once you install the unit a few times, you will master it quickly. Winding the bobbin is easy. It can be done on the top of your CS7000i.
With a quick-set drop-top bobbin, all you need to do is put the bobbin into the case from the top of your sewing machine. Then, pull the thread around.
There’s no need to draw up the thread before starting to work. Needle threading is straightforward too. Just follow the instructions on the sewing machine.
Pass the thread via the tension discs and thread guides until you get to the needle. However, make sure to thread with your presser foot up to prevent tension adjustment problems.
The automatic needle threader makes this process easier. It’s a bit tricky at the beginning. However, it’s easy to learn. And makes a great addition for people with poor eyesight like me.
Or shaky hands. Simple features like these are what makes this sewing machine special. And suitable for a lot of people. No matter your skill level, you can use this sewing machine.
How to Thread Brother CS7000i?
How many seamstresses and tailors are there that have dealt with jamming bobbin? Or waisted minutes of their precious time trying to thread their needle?
Many users, especially beginners need to look for video tutorials or articles on Google explaining how to thread the needle in a certain sewing machine.
The automatic needle threader in this sewing machine is a time-saver. Thanks to this automatic feature, you can thread the needle in just seconds. It’s ideal for people with shaky hands.
Or poor eyesight like me. The automatic needle threader shoves the thread nicely via the needle and it’s ready to go without experiencing stress which comes with manual needle threading.
CS7000i also has a drop-in top bobbin that’s jam-resistant which makes it perfect for beginners. Features like this make quilting and sewing a lot faster and easier, especially for beginners.
Brother CS7000i Bobbin Size
According to the user manual, you can only utilize bobbins that have been made for this machine. Using other bobbins can cause damage. Also, they won’t work properly.
Only utilize the bobbins that come with CS7000i or bobbins of the same type. It utilizes only SA156, class 15 bobbins. You can also buy extra bobbins for this unit at Amazon.
Brother CS7000i Price
Most sewers assume that this sewing machine is expensive because of the many features. However, it’s a reasonably-priced computerized machine.
You can find this sewing machine for less than $200 which is great for sewers on a budget. Or beginners who don’t want to spend a fortune on their first sewing machine.
You can always find good deals at Amazon. However, you can also purchase this sewing machine at Brother’s official website.
Brother CS7000i Needle Size
As I already mentioned, you will get a pack of 3 needles consisting of 1 each size 11, 14, and 16. CS7000i comes with a size 11 needle installed.
You can use any brand of needle size 11-16. However, keep in mind that size 16 is the maximum needle size that you can use with this model.
Does the CS7000i Monogram, Embroider or Act Like a Serger?
Unfortunately, this sewing machine doesn’t have a built-in monogramming font. Also, it doesn’t have an embroidery capability to enable design importing.
This is a bit confusing when you consider the monogramming foot that’s included with the purchase. But that’s just the presser foot that you will utilize with the decorative stitches.
If you’re searching for a sewing machine that has a built-in monogramming font, consider other Brother sewing machines such as HD1850.
The Brother CS7000i still allows you to perform free-motion embroidery which is great. Additionally, you can applique with this sewing machine.
If you’re looking for a combination embroidery and sewing machine, look elsewhere. Brother SE600 is a great option. I have the Brother SE625.
This sewing machine includes an automatic thread trimmer. And performs automatic reverse stitches. If you’re a sewing hoarder like me, opt for SE625.
It embroiders and has a colour LCD screen. In terms of performing like a serger, CS7000i includes a foot and an overcasting stitch to make a seam. Or complete edges at once!
However, you can’t trim the edges with this machine as you can with a serger. It’s not accurate and fast as a serger. You can buy a Brother side cutter foot separately.
This feature will trim fabric while working which sounds great. I bought one and found it to be good. It’s not impressive, especially with stretchy fabrics.
However, keep in mind that this isn’t a replacement for a serger. However, it can act as a “poor person’s serger”. And as such, I regularly utilize it.
Can the CS7000i Sew Thick Fabrics Like Denim or Leather?
Sadly, CS7000i isn’t a heavy-duty sewing machine. Therefore, it can’t handle heavy and thick fabrics like denim and leather. It doesn’t work as a heavy-duty sewing machine.
If you’re into heavy-duty projects, consider other sewing machines on the market. And put your focus on heavy-duty models. You can stretch the limits of your CS7000i if you want.
I’ve done it a few times! I’m one of the “you never know if you don’t try” type of people. If you utilize the right needle type and thread weight, as well as work slowly, it will do a decent job.
Also, use the handwheel if needed. I sew a few layers of denim occasionally. Lastly, I revamped a man’s fleece jacket into a doll sleeping bag. I was impressed by the versatility of CS7000i.
Is the CS7000i Good at Quilting?
Yes, CS7000i is a combination quilting and sewing machine. Therefore, it’s perfect for quilting. If you’re a passionate quilter, this model is the right choice for you.
It comes with 3 quilting feet including a walking foot, a spring-action quilting foot, and a 1/4-inch piecing foot. The walking foot assists with even feeding of denser quilt layers.
The spring-action quilting foot, on the other hand, enables free-motion quilting and the 1/4-inch piecing foot patches precise 1/4-inch seam allowances, the regular in the quilting world.
The included large, detachable table is perfect for holding bigger projects. I regularly use it when making costumes, clothes, and other creative DIY sewing projects besides quilts.
I also adore the 6-point feed dogs drop without needing to cover them with a darning plate. This is a big plus in my book. As you can see, it’s a versatile sewing machine.
Brother CS6000i vs CS7000i
The design of both CS7000i and CS6000i is pretty much the same. The key difference is that CS7000i has 70 built-in stitches which are 10 stitches more than what CS6000i has to offer.
Also, the upgraded version has different colouring and graphics. The rest of the features like a free arm, automatic needle threader and machine speed remain the same as CS6000i.
Where to Buy Brother CS7000i Sewing Machine?
You may be wondering: “Where can I buy Brother CS7000i sewing machine?” Fortunately, it’s a popular sewing machine. Therefore, it’s available at both online and in-person stores.
You can buy CS7000i at Amazon for less than $200. However, it’s also available on Brother’s website. It’s the perfect sewing machine for both beginners and passionate home sewers.
Final Thoughts
The Brother CS7000i computerized sewing machine is a great replacement for the popular CS6000i. It’s loaded with a bunch of stitches, awesome features and free accessories.
What more could you possibly ask for in a sewing machine? And it’s a combination quilting and sewing machine. However, I would like to see built-in quilting stitches in the future.
This disadvantage wasn’t a deal-breaker for me. And if it’s not a deal-breaker, purchase this workhorse today. It’s available for less than $200 which is a pretty good deal if you ask me!
You can’t go wrong in buying this machine. Have you utilized CS7000i? Or CS6000i? Which one is better? Share your honest thoughts and experiences in the comments down below.
Hopefully, my unbiased Brother CS7000i review can help you determine if this is the sewing machine of your dreams. Honestly, it’s much better than CS6000i. But that’s just me!