Brother XM2701 is a beginner-friendly sewing machine. It has 27 built-in stitches and 63 stitch functions. It’s a portable and lightweight machine (weighs a little bit over 12 pounds).
This is pretty light when compared to other models in the same range. The inbuilt patterns include blind hem, decorative stitches, elastic and zigzag stitches, and a 1-step buttonhole.
I consider the Brother XM2701 lightweight sewing machine a simple sewing toy because it’s mechanical and works with a pedal. The design isn’t complex. It has no controls everywhere.
The dials are delivered in ergonomically convenient spots. Stitch selection can be completed by spinning the dial. There’s also an automatic needle threader which I was impressed by.
It’s a luxury to get an automatic needle threader in a cheap sewing machine such as the Brother XM2701 lightweight sewing machine. The top placement coil system is another advantage.
Thanks to these convenient features, XM2701 is easy to use. If you want to learn more about this model, make sure to read my objective and detailed Brother XM2701 review carefully.
Technical Specifications
| Type: | Mechanical |
| Dimensions: | 12 x 6 x 15 inches |
| Machine weight: | 12 pounds |
| Built-in stitches: | 27 |
| Machine speed: | 800 stitches per minute |
| Bobbin loading: | Top |
| Included presser feet: | 6 |
| Auto buttonholes: | 1-step auto-sizing |
| Automatic needle threader: | Yes |
| Warranty: | 25-year limited warranty |
Table of Contents
Brother XM2701 Review
Feature-rich, lightweight and affordable, XM2701 is one of the best-sellers for newbies. If you’re looking for a sewing machine for basic projects, look no further than XM2701.
Perfect for everyday sewing tasks including quilting, this sewing machine provides all you need to bring a sewing idea to life. I had the chance to try out this popular sewing machine myself.
And I was overly pleased with the performance of this elegant and simple sewing unit. Although it can’t compare to high-end quilting units, it’s a great choice for newbies.
It’s also a good option for people on a tight budget. Let’s take a closer look at the main features of this sewing machine and dive deep into my Brother XM2701 review.
27 Built-In Stitches
This well-known sewing machine includes 27 stitches. You will get a blind hem, stretch stitches, a 1-step buttonhole, and decorative stitches.
XM2701 covers all the basic sewing needs. However, it offers a few advanced stitch patterns that can be utilized by advanced sewers as well.
Automatic Needle Threader
The automatic needle threader delivers a simple threading system. This option is a lever on the side of the unit that threads your needle with a single push automatically.
Top drop-in bobbin
The top drop-in bobbin makes this sewing machine convenient for beginners. It’s a lot simpler to import the bobbin into the unit. This also prevents thread jamming.
5-Piece Feed Dog System
The 5-piece feed dog system allows your material to roam freely on the board for stable, smooth sewing without skipping any patterns.
Adjustable Stitch Width and Length
The adjusting dials situated on this machine allow sewers to customize their patterns’ width and length. This allows you to change their size according to your preferences.
Drop Feed
The drop feed technology is very helpful if you’re into quilting as well. It enables dropping the feed dogs and perform free-motion sewing when you’re quilting, making a buttonhole or darning.
Detachable Free Arm
There’s a detachable storage part that can be detached to turn the unit into a free arm. I like this option. It allows me to reach the hard to reach spots like sleeves, cuffs, etc.
Extra High Presser Foot Lifter
XM2701 features an extra high presser foot lifter which is very useful equipment when you’re working with multiple layers of fabrics or dense fabrics.
Auto Declutch Bobbin Winder
The auto declutch bobbin winder will automatically stop when the bobbin is complete. You never have to stress about overwinding your bobbin.
A Horizontal Full Rotary Hook Bobbin System
The transparent bobbin cover helps you look after the bobbin thread supply. The full rotary metal hooks work quietly and need less oiling because they only spin in one direction.
Built-in LED Lighting
The Brother XM2701 lightweight sewing machine comes with a built-in LED lighting. The built-in lighting is my favourite feature because I’m a big fan of brightly-lit workspace.
This sewing machine is brightly-lit so you can easily observe your sewing projects. And make sure you’re doing everything properly. You will also receive a few free accessories.
There’s a 3-piece needle set, a twin needle, 6 sewing feet, bobbins, additional spools, instructional DVD, button fitting foot, and a screwdriver. This is a great deal for the price.
Brother XM2701 Pros and Cons
The Brother XM2701 lightweight sewing machine is a reasonably-priced unit that performs well for both newbies and users looking for a top-notch portable sewing machine.
If you’re looking to complete basic sewing projects and develop your skills, this entry-level unit is a good option. Let’s summarize the main pros and cons you need to consider.
Pros:
Entry-Level Yet Versatile
This sewing machine makes a great balance between easy installation and working and a lot of functions to start utilizing later, as your skills improve.
Easy Threading
Both the bobbin and needle are threaded automatically. Therefore, you won’t need more than moments to do it, even if you’re a beginner without any experience.
1-Step Auto-Size Buttonhole
These buttonholes will suit buttons of different sizes, almost any size. Meaning, you can do anything you want. You can customize your projects and make something unique.
Lightweight Sewing Machine
The Brother XM2701 lightweight sewing machine weighs less than 13 pounds. It’s easy to transport and carry around. Seasoned hobbyists can make a great decision in buying XM2701 as a backup next to their primary, heavy-
duty, non-portable sewing machine. It’s a compact machine that will fit almost any table.
Budget-Friendly
Automatic features such as automatic bobbin winding and needle threading aren’t typical in cheap units.
Precisely these automatic features increase the sewing machine’s value for the money. Even if sewing is your hobby and you only sew now and then, XM2701 will pay for itself off with just a couple of projects.
How many jeans and pants have you ditched just because hem went undone? XM2701 is one of those sewing machines that every home needs!
Quiet Operation
Even portable sewing machines can get extremely noisy but not this one. A noisy operation can be a big problem for your neighbours if you’re living in a flat.
Perfect for DIY Crafters
Thanks to the free arm that I previously mentioned, XM2701 is ideal for small projects with many tricky parts. It’s ideal for crafters and home decorations.
Cons:
No Automatic Needle Up/Down Position
You have to lower and raise the needle position by moving the handwheel. However, one button would make things easier! It would be super helpful when you want to pivot your material and keep on sewing without losing your stitch.
No Adjustable Speed Control
Although I appreciate sewing machines that can work at high speeds, I also appreciate adjustable speed control. You can manipulate the speed by changing the pressure on your foot pedal.
However, each one has a different level of sensitivity. It’s hard to reply to your feelings alone. That’s why I like speed sliders (many Brother machines have a speed slider but they’re expensive).
Lighting Isn’t Bright Enough
I said that I love the LED lighting above the workspace. However, it could have been brighter. It’s perfect for sewing during the day or working for shorter periods but if you’re used to sewing at night, you might find the LED lights weak.
Awkward Position of the Presser Foot Lever
It’s situated right under the arm so it’s hard to reach for it, especially if you’re right-handed.
Another thing I don’t like about this machine is the plastic construction. It looks as all the parts are made of plastics. The zipper foot is also made of plastic. Therefore, it’s not as sturdy as it should be.
I’m not against plastic as long as it lasts but the main issue is, will it last for years? This brand offers a 25-year limited warranty and free phone support for the machine’s lifetime which is incredible.
Not Suitable for Leather and Denim
I’m not sure if this is a disadvantage but let’s say it simply for the sake of honest review.
XM2701 can’t handle thick materials. For users who have experience with a wide selection of machines, that comes without saying. I didn’t expect a budget-friendly, portable and lightweight machine to handle denim and leather anyway.
That’s why industrial and semi-industrial machines were invented. However, if you’re new to the sewing world, perhaps you’re going to need this caution.
It’s also important to mention that this little beauty can handle stretchy fabrics pretty well.
No Cover or Case Included
A case or cover would be a nice addition. It’s not a deal-breaker for me, and if it’s not a deal-breaker for you, get this sewing machine today. Soft cases can be purchased at a good price separately. But you will still need to spend the extra money and invest time into finding the one that fits!
Who is Brother XM2701 Made for?
The Brother XM2701 lightweight sewing machine was made with both beginners and advanced users in mind. If you’re new to sewing, this unit comes with nice features.
They’re all simple and easy to learn. XM2701 is specifically made to be easy to use for users without any experience in sewing and modern computerized sewing machines.
A dial is utilized to choose the stitching. There’s also a foot pedal for hands-free work. If you’re an expert who’s looking for a backup machine, look no further than XM2701.
This unit can be helpful for experienced sewers in different ways. Firstly, it’s lightweight. Therefore, it’s a portable sewing machine that can be easily stored and pulled out when necessary.
You can take XM2701 with you to sewing classes. If you’re looking for a lightweight and portable sewing machine, this model is ideal for you and your sewing needs.
Secondly, this sewing machine can be helpful for basic sewing projects that don’t require a special high-end sewing machine. Some sewers like to have more than one machine.
This is because they don’t always need to switch out the presser foot or thread just for a simple pattern. XM2701 makes a great backup or secondary machine because it’s versatile.
And doesn’t cost much. It’s easy to set up on a spare workspace or kitchen table for temporary use. The best part? You don’t need a sewing table for this sewing machine.
How to Setup a Brother XM2701 Sewing Machine?
Setup is incredibly easy with the automatic bobbin winder and the automatic needle threader. If you’re new to sewing, there’s a well-written user manual. It explains everything clearly.
Additionally, there’s a DVD with instructions on how to do everything right. You can also watch YouTube tutorials on how to set up a Brother XM2701 sewing machine so don’t worry.
How to Use Brother XM2701 Sewing Machine?
This is a beginner-friendly machine for beginners and people who’re returning to the sewing world after a while. It has all the features you would need in a compact and convenient design.
The user manual that comes with this sewing machine is a perfect addition for users without experience. You will also get a DVD with details on how to use Brother XM2701 sewing machine.
How to Thread Brother XM2701 Sewing Machine?
The Brother XM2701 lightweight sewing machine has an automatic needle threader. Therefore, you can spend your time sewing instead of threading the needle in an old-fashioned way.
I experienced zero issues threading this unit. However, there’s a learning curve for absolute beginners. It takes a touch on the lever situated on the side of the machine to thread the needle.
The unit does the rest of the job by automatically pressing the thread via the needle. It’s a self-threading machine with a top drop-in bobbin which makes things even easier for new sewers.
There’s also an automatic bobbin winding system. The system uses Brother’s Quick-Set technology. This technology ensures that the bobbin remains put when the sewing machine is in use.
On the right side of the unit, there’s a bobbin control that will wind your bobbin for you in just moments automatically. As you can notice, XM2701 brings great value for the price!
How to Backstitch on Brother XM2701?
A backstitch will tighten the stitch you’re trying to create at the start and the end. All you need to do is follow the following steps on how to backstitch on Brother XM2701.
Step 1: Ensure the needle is down into the material to start working.
Step 2: Push the start/stop button or if you have a foot controller installed on your machine, press down on the foot controller to start working.
Step 3: When the sewing machine has made 4 or 5 stitches, press the reverse button.
Keep on holding, if the foot controller is installed, push down on it while you’re holding in on the reverse button. When you get to the start of the stitch, release the reverse button.
If you have a foot controller installed, let up on the foot controller to stop the sewing machine.
Step 4: Push the start/stop button or push down on the foot controller to sew ahead.
When you get to the end of the material, push the reverse button to sew in reverse 4 or 5 stitches. If you have a foot controller installed, push down on the foot controller while pushing the reverse button.
Step 5: Push the start/stop button to finish your project to the end of the material. Or push down on the foot controller if you have it installed.
Where to Buy Brother XM2701 Sewing Machine?
The Brother XM2701 sewing machine is very popular. Meaning, you can find this unit in most homeware shops. It’s available at Amazon. It’s also available for purchase at Brother’s official website.
How Much is Brother XM2701 Lightweight Sewing Machine?
This simple yet feature-rich lightweight sewing machine from Brother is cheap! You won’t have to break your bank account to buy it or learn how to sew.
With XM2701, you receive many of the advanced features that can be found on high-end sewing models by Brother and other brands for less than $150.
FAQ
Final Words
Brother has done an excellent job with this sewing machine. XM2701 has everything you could wish for in a sewing machine. It’s perfect for beginners but experts can find it useful.
It’s portable and versatile. Therefore, advanced sewers can use it as their backup or secondary machine. What are you waiting for? Your sewing and craft projects are waiting for you!
If XM2701 sounds like the sewing machine that would respond to your sewing needs, don’t hesitate and buy it immediately. I hope you enjoyed my detailed Brother XM2701 review.