Worship the designer in you with Brother XR9550PRW Runway Limited Edition. It’s a computerized unit with 110 original inbuilt decorative, heirloom and utility sewing stitches.
It also included 8 different styles of one-step auto-size buttonholes, making it ideal for everything from making garments to quilting. It’s also loaded with a lot of convenient features.
There’s an LCD screen which enables computerized stitch selection, drop feed for free motion quilting, and free arm option for sewing hard-to-reach places such as sleeves and cuffs.
This sewing machine comes loaded with 8 quick-change presser feet including zipper, overcasting, blind stitch, zigzag, monogramming, quilting, buttonhole, and button sewing foot.
There’s also an oversized table included. This accessory makes XR9550PRW ideal for larger projects such as quilts. Let’s take a closer look at this unit in my Brother XR9550PRW review.
Technical Specifications
| Dimensions: | 12.5 x 16.3 x 7 inches |
| Machine weight: | 10.1 pounds |
| Built-in sewing stitches: | 110 with 8 styles of buttonholes |
| Stitch width and length: | 5mm x 7mm |
| Pressing feet included: | 8 |
| Machine speed: | 850 stitches per minute |
| Warranty: | 25-year limited warranty |
Table of Contents
Brother XR9550PRW Review
XR9550PRW is a computerized sewing machine made to provide both beginners and intermediate users a wide range of helpful features.
These features enable you to take on many different projects with ease. Let’s take a closer look at them and what this model has to offer.
Backlit LCD Screen
This model by Brother features a backlit LCD screen that displays the settings that you have about inbuilt stitches and other options. Going through these settings is easy.
And thanks to the light on the display, you can easily select the desired stitch for your project even when there’s not enough artificial or natural light in your sewing station.
110 Built-In Sewing Stitches
If you’re searching for a sewing machine that provides a wide range of inbuilt sewing stitches for you to pick from, XR9550PRW is the perfect model for you.
It’s loaded with 110 original stitches built into the unit which includes a variety of decorative and utility stitches. Additionally, their length and width are adjustable.
Drop-In Bobbin System
The drop-in top loading bobbin system of this machine is created to be as simple as possible. Instead of complex extraction and placement steps, you can just load the bobbin from the top. And even take it off without wasting your time when the requirement arises.
8 1-One Step Buttonholes
While many budget-friendly sewing units don’t provide a variety of buttonhole options, this unit delivers 8 different styles of buttonholes that can be made with a touch of a button.
Warranty
Just like other Brother sewing units, this limited edition model is covered by a 25-year limited warranty. From the date of purchase, you will get 1 year on labour, parts, and accessories.
You will get 2 years on electronics and printed circuit board and 25 years on chassis casting. This is a nice bonus and proves that the company stands behind their products.
Automatic Needle Threader
One of my favourite features is the automatic needle threader.
If your hands aren’t the steadies, if your eyesight isn’t the best, or you just despise threading the needle, then this is a feature which will improve your overall experience and save you time.
Why bother when your machine can make your sewing much easier?
Versatility
Considering the number of feet that come with this sewing machine, and the selection of inbuilt stitches and patterns, you can complete different projects with great ease.
The oversized table proves that larger projects like blankets and quilts can be completed without having to worry about room on your work table. It’s also a great quilting machine.
Switching from feet, threads, and stitches is simple as well. Therefore, if you’re using different materials, you won’t be obligated to fuss over adjusting settings or changing accessories.
Lighting
A basic yet useful LCD screen presents all of your options even in the dead of night. It’s simple to use and very well lit. You can sew into the night and not strain your eyes.
Brother XR9550PRW Pros and Cons
XR9550PRW is perfect for sewers who’re just getting started with their journey in the sewing world and want to invest in a high-quality but budget-friendly sewing machine.
If you’re a professional, you might want to look at other units as well. Beginners and intermediate users will enjoy the benefits of this unit but what are the flaws? Let’s take a look!
Pros
- One of the reasonably-priced sewing machines that you can find on the market. The selection of stitches offered at this price point is amazing!
- The various features of this machine can be adjusted to respond to your needs which works well despite your experience and skills.
- It’s a lightweight and portable sewing machine. It weighs less than 20 pounds. Therefore, you can move and store your sewing machine easily.
- It’s one of the simplest computerized units to learn to sew on. The installation is very easy, as the company delivers in-depth simple instructions.
Cons
- This is a limited edition machine. Therefore, it can be exclusive on one side. And problematic on the other. For instance, you can’t be sure how long the model will be available for purchase and if the replacement components will be easy to find.
- This brand is known for providing a wide selection of accessories with its machines. Therefore, you may be disappointed by the number of accessories that come with this machine.
- Controlling the speed of this sewing machine can be tricky sometimes, especially if you’re a new user with less or no experience in the sewing world.
What Comes with Brother XR9550PRW?
XR9550PRW comes with fewer accessories than other Brother sewing units but more than other units by other brands on the market. You will get the following items.
- Sewing machine
- Optional foot controller and power cord
- Hard case and a detachable wide table
- 8 different presser feet
- 4 bobbins
- Needle set including twin needle and ballpoint needle, 3 spool caps, seam ripper, screwdriver, a cleaning brush, extra spool pin, and eyelet punch
- User manual and instructional DVD
This is everything you will need to get started except for thread and fabric, of course. On the front of this sewing machine, you will notice the following features.
- Speed slider to control the speed of your unit and set the maximum speed
- Stitch selection guide on the front right so you don’t need to rely on the user manual if you don’t know the number of the sewing stitch you prefer
- The LCD enables you to select the stitch and then switch its width and length if necessary
- Buttons for needle up/down, start/stop and reverse. It can be utilized without a foot pedal. Also, there’s no need to lower the needle with the handwheel manually either.
On the sides of the unit, you will notice a manual thread cutter which is this tiny blade to slice the thread when you’re finished with sewing. There’s also a handwheel to move the needle.
On top of the unit, you will notice a spool holder, automatic bobbin winder, a tension dial, and guides to show you how to set up the bobbin winder and a picture on how to do it properly.
What Size Bobbins for Brother XR9550PRW?
The Brother XR9550PRW sewing machine uses Class 15, SA156 bobbins. They’re quick-set and top-drop and wound with an automatic bobbin-winding system.
This system is situated on the top of the unit. I like this setup because guides are included on the body of the sewing machine in case you forget how to wind the bobbin.
Once the bobbin is wound, drop in from the top into the bobbin case. Pass the bobbin thread through as instructed by guides on the sewing machine and you’re good to go!
The needle will automatically take up the bobbin thread when you begin with sewing. So you don’t have to worry about performing this process manually.
How to Thread Brother XR9550PRW?
When installing and threading the unit, XR9950PRW features a drop-in bobbin for quick rethreading of your unit. This sewing machine utilizes bobbin class SA156.
You will notice thread guides on the sewing machine itself. Additionally, the needle threading is assisted. The guides (numbers and small arrows) printed on the unit make it easier.
Threading the upper thread is super easy for beginners thanks to these guides. Also, users with bad sight can benefit from the automatic needle threader on this sewing machine.
How to Use Brother XR9550PRW?
First and foremost, turn the main power switch on.
Then, make sure the utility stitch indicator lights up. Pick the stitch pattern you want to use and use the stitch category key to pick the corresponding stitch pattern category.
The category switches each time the selection key is pushed. After choosing the stitch pattern category, puss the minus or plus stitch selection keys under the display.
To enter the pattern number pushing the keys on the right changes the digits on the right while pushing the keys on the left switches the digits on the left.
The presser foot to be used is presented over the stitch number. Raise the needle by pushing the needle position switch once or twice. Raise the presser foot to set the fabric.
Place the upper thread under the presser foot while keeping your fabric and thread with your left hand. Turn the handwheel in your direction to lower the needle to the starting point for stitching.
Lower the presser foot level. Setup the speed with the speed controller. And push the start/stop button to start sewing. When you’re done, stop the unit by pushing the start/stop button.
Push the needle position switch to raise the needle. Raise the presser foot, pull out your fabric and then cut your thread with the thread cutter on the left side of the sewing unit.
What Presser Feet are Compatible with XR9550PRW?
If you already own presser feet that work with this kind of shank from a previous sewing machine, then in most cases, you will be able to utilize the same presser feet on this sewing machine as well.
However, to be sure that presser feet can be utilized on various machines or when purchasing new ones, and other accessories and parts, always see if the parts work with your specific machine number.
Who is Brother XR9550PRW Made for?
I class this Brother XR9550PRW sewing machine as competent. Meaning, it’s a sewing machine with a lot of features suitable for users working at a competent skill level.
Generally, sewing units that are classed as “competent” come with a lot of basic features. However, they also have advanced features for competent users who want to experiment.
Therefore, Brother XR9550PRW is made for beginners without sewing experience or intermediate users who have outgrown their old machine and want something new.
Brother XR9500PRW vs Brother XR9550PRW
Brother XR9550PRW is the improved version of XR9500PRQ.
Therefore, the previous version was a limited edition as stated by its name. The design of the upgraded model has improved slightly. However, the main difference is in the stitches.
The new model has 110 built-in stitches while the old one has only 100. It’s not that big of a difference. However, it’s still an improvement. Also, the new model has an extra presser foot.
It comes with a quilting foot. Operationally, both units are similar. They come with the same automated features. And they’re both covered by a 25-year limited warranty.
Where Can I Buy Brother XR9550PRW?
Brother is a popular and respected brand that has been present on the market for what seems like ages. They provide some of the best sewing machines and other home gadgets.
And while their products can be easily found at local department stores and speciality shops, this one is difficult to find because of its limited-edition label.
You can purchase XR9950PRW at Amazon. You can also check Walmart. Or Sewing Machines Plus which is another place where you can find good deals.
FAQ
Conclusion
The Brother XR9550PRW sewing machine is loaded with convenient features including a big LCD screen which allows computerized stitch selection.
There’s also a drop feed for free-motion sewing and quilting and a free arm capability for sewing sleeves and cuffs. The free arm is one of my favourite features.
This workhorse also includes 8 quick-change presser feet including zipper, overcasting, monogramming, zigzag, button sewing, quilting, and button sewing.
You will also get a wide, oversized table which makes it perfect for completing larger projects like quilts. Hopefully, you find my Brother XR9550PRW review informative.
Have you ever used the Brother XR9550PRW sewing machine? What’s your opinion on this brand? Share your experiences in the comments below!