The Brother BM3850 Sewing Machine stands out as the best choice of sewing machine, for its exceptional features.
Brother Industries, Ltd. is a Japanese multinational company that produces a wide range of products, including printers, scanners, label printers, and sewing machines. The company was founded in 1908 in Nagoya, Japan, and has since grown to become one of the leading manufacturers of sewing machines worldwide.
Brother entered the sewing machine market in the 1930s and has consistently innovated and improved its sewing machine technology over the years. Today, Brother sewing machines are known for their reliability, versatility, and user-friendly features, making them popular among both beginners and experienced sewers.
Key features and innovations of Brother sewing machines include:
Computerized Technology: Many Brother sewing machines come equipped with computerized technology, allowing users to easily select stitches, adjust settings, and create intricate designs with precision.
Wide Range of Models: Brother offers a diverse range of sewing machines to cater to different needs, skill levels, and budgets. They have machines suitable for basic sewing, quilting, embroidery, and advanced sewing projects.
Innovative Stitch Options: Brother sewing machines often come with a variety of built-in stitches, including decorative stitches, utility stitches, and alphanumeric stitches. This allows users to explore creative possibilities in their sewing projects.
Automatic Features: Many Brother machines have automatic features such as automatic needle threading, one-step buttonholing, and speed control, making the sewing process more efficient and user-friendly.
Embroidery Machines: Brother is well-known for its embroidery machines that allow users to create intricate and personalized embroidery designs. These machines often come with built-in designs and the capability to import custom designs.
User-Friendly Design: Brother sewing machines are designed with the user in mind, featuring easy-to-use controls, clear LCD screens, and intuitive interfaces. This makes them suitable for both beginners and experienced sewers.
Quality and Durability: Brother is known for producing sewing machines that are durable and built to last. Many users appreciate the longevity and reliability of Brother machines.
It’s worth noting that the specific features and models available may vary, and Brother continues to release new sewing machine models to meet the evolving needs of the sewing community. If you are interested in a Brother sewing machine, it’s recommended to check the latest models and reviews to find the one that best suits your requirements.
The Brother BM3850 Sewing Machine appears to be designed with features that enhance the sewing experience, particularly with a focus on ease of use and powerful performance.
Below you will find the Brother BM3850 Sewing Machine Review, hand-picked by us to highlight both the good and bad points.
Review of: Brother BM3850 Sewing Machine
Our Overall Rating: 4.8 out of 5
Why is it Better?
- 37 built-in stitches with 63 stitch functions, including satin stitch applique.
- Automatic 1-step buttonholer with stitch balance control.
- Quick Set Drop-in bobbin for easy and jam-resistant bobbin placement.
- Automatic needle threader and bobbin winding.
- Free arm for sewing cylindrical items like pants and sleeves.
- Twin needle option for two-color stitching.
- Thread tension control dial, stitch width, and length control.
- Needle position adjustment.
- Snap-on feet for easy attachment.
- Lightweight and compact with a built-in handle for portability.
- LED lighting for a well-illuminated work area.
Specifications:
- Accessory Storage: Yes
- Automatic Thread Cutter: No
- Number of Presser Feet: 6
- Quick Set Bobbin: Yes
- Start/Stop Button: Yes
- Stitch Selector Type: Stitch Dial
- Thread Tension: Manual
- UL/CSA Listed Voltage: 110v
- Wide Table Included: Yes
- Unit Weight (lbs): 6.71
- Carton Dimensions (W” x D” x H”): 10.125″ x 18.125″ x 14.75″
- Available Stitch Types: Straight Stitch, Zigzag Stitch, Overlock Stitch, Running Stitch
- Built-In Stitch Selections (Stitches): 37
- Button Hole Styles: 1
- Maximum Sewing Speed (Stitches Per Minute): 800
- Reinforcement/Reverse Stitches: Yes
- Stitch Length (mm): 4
- Stitch Width (mm): 5
If you are considering purchasing this excellent Brother BM3850 Sewing Machine, we have also included our standard diagram of ratings and lists of pros-cons
Design
Quality
Price
Effectiveness
Pros
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User-Friendly Design: With features like an automatic needle threader, quick-set drop-in bobbin, and a stitch selector dial, the BROTHER BM3850 is designed for ease of use, making it especially suitable for beginners.
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Portability: Weighing only 6.71 pounds and equipped with a built-in handle, the BM3850 is highly portable, allowing for convenient travel and storage.
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Quilting Capabilities: Dedicated quilting features, including a quilting foot, quilt guide, and a wide table, make the BROTHER BM3850 a great choice for quilting enthusiasts.
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Twin Needle Functionality: The option for two-color stitching with a twin needle adds a creative dimension to sewing projects, expanding design possibilities.
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Durability: The robust construction and quality materials ensure the BROTHER BM3850 is built to withstand regular use, providing long-lasting performance.
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Comprehensive Accessory Package: The inclusion of various accessory feet, a wide table, and a range of accessories in the package enhances the machine’s functionality and value for money.
Cons
No Automatic Thread Cutter: The absence of an automatic thread cutter might be a drawback for those who value this time-saving feature in their sewing machines.
Limited Buttonhole Styles: With only one buttonhole style, the BROTHER BM3850 may not cater to projects that require multiple buttonhole variations, limiting its versatility in this aspect.
The Brother BM3850 Sewing Machine is a versatile and user-friendly device designed to cater to the needs of both travel enthusiasts and those venturing into the world of sewing. With a plethora of features, this full-size machine offers convenience and functionality, making it an ideal companion for beginners and experienced sewists alike.
Built-in Stitches for Versatility
The BROTHER BM3850 boasts an impressive 37 built-in stitches, providing a wide range of options for various sewing projects. From essential utility stitches to intricate heirloom patterns, this sewing machine ensures versatility in creating unique and personalized designs.
Automatic 1-Step Buttonholer
Creating buttonholes becomes a breeze with the automatic 1-step buttonholer equipped with stitch balance control. This feature ensures precise and professional-looking buttonholes with minimal effort, making it suitable for projects that require multiple button fastenings.
Quick Set Drop-in Bobbin System
Efficiency meets convenience with the Quick Set Drop-in bobbin system. This design not only prevents jamming but also simplifies the bobbin insertion process. It allows for smooth and uninterrupted sewing, even during intricate projects.
Automatic Needle Threader & Bobbin Winding
Say goodbye to the hassle of threading needles manually. The automatic needle threader feature streamlines the setup process, saving time and effort. Additionally, the automatic bobbin winding ensures that your machine is always ready for action.
Free Arm for Cylindrical Sewing
The inclusion of a free arm adds to the machine’s versatility, making it easy to sew cylindrical items like pants and sleeves. This feature enhances the range of projects that can be undertaken, offering a seamless sewing experience.
6. Twin Needle for Two-Color Stitching
For those looking to add a touch of creativity to their projects, the BM3850 comes with a twin needle option. This feature enables two-color stitching, allowing users to experiment with different thread combinations and achieve unique design elements.
Thread Tension Control Dial
Precision is key in sewing, and the thread tension control dial ensures that every stitch is just right. This manual control allows users to tailor the thread tension according to the fabric and stitching requirements, resulting in professional-looking outcomes.
Stitch Width & Stitch Length Control
Customization is at your fingertips with the ability to control both stitch width and stitch length. This feature provides flexibility in adapting the machine to different fabrics and design preferences, empowering users to achieve the desired stitch outcomes.
Needle Position Adjustment
Fine-tune your sewing projects with the needle position adjustment feature. This allows for precise placement of the needle, catering to specific stitching needs and contributing to the overall accuracy and quality of the finished product.
Snap-On Feet for Easy Attachment
Changing presser feet is a swift and straightforward process with the snap-on feet feature. This enhances the adaptability of the machine, allowing for quick transitions between different sewing techniques and projects.
Lightweight and Compact Design with Built-in Handle
Portability meets functionality with the BROTHER BM3850’s lightweight and compact design. The built-in handle adds convenience, making it easy to transport the machine for sewing on the go or when storage space is a consideration.
Specifications:
Accessory Storage
The machine comes equipped with accessory storage, ensuring that all your sewing tools and extras are organized and easily accessible.
Automatic Thread Cutter
While not included, the absence of an automatic thread cutter doesn’t compromise the machine’s efficiency, given its array of other time-saving features.
Included Accessory Feet
The BM3850 comes with a variety of accessory feet, including the Buttonhole Foot, Gathering Foot, Zipper Foot, Blindstitch Foot, Zigzag Foot, Quilting Foot, and Quilt Guide. These feet cater to a wide range of sewing techniques and applications.
Lighting Type: LED
The sewing area is well-illuminated with energy-efficient LED lighting, ensuring a clear view of your projects and reducing eye strain during extended sewing sessions.
Needle Position Key (Up/Down)
The machine lacks a needle position key (up/down), but users can manually adjust the needle position for precise stitching.
Number of Presser Feet: 6
The BM3850 comes with six presser feet, offering versatility for various sewing tasks.
Quick Set Bobbin: Yes
The Quick Set bobbin system simplifies the bobbin setup process, contributing to a smoother and more efficient sewing experience.
Start/Stop Button: Yes
The presence of a start/stop button provides an alternative to using the foot pedal, offering convenience for those who prefer or need a hands-free approach.
Stitch Selector Type: Stitch Dial
Navigating through the 37 built-in stitches is easy with the user-friendly stitch dial, allowing for quick and effortless stitch selection.
Thread Tension: Manual
Manual thread tension control allows users to fine-tune the tension based on the fabric and stitching requirements, ensuring optimal stitch quality.
UL/CSA Listed Voltage: 110v
The machine is designed to operate at a standard voltage of 110v, making it suitable for use in various locations.
Wide Table Included: Yes
The inclusion of a wide table expands the work surface, providing ample space for larger projects and added stability.
Unit Weight (lbs): 6.71
Weighing in at 6.71 pounds, the BM3850 strikes a balance between sturdiness and portability.
Carton Dimensions (W” x D” x H”): 10.125″ x 18.125″ x 14.75″
The compact carton dimensions make storage and transportation convenient, fitting into various spaces with ease.
Available Stitch Types
The machine supports a variety of stitch types, including Straight Stitch, Zigzag Stitch, Overlock Stitch, and Running Stitch, catering to diverse sewing needs.
Built-In Stitch Selections (Stitches): 37
With 37 built-in stitches, users have a plethora of options to choose from, allowing for creativity and versatility in their sewing projects.
Button Hole Styles: 1
The BM3850 offers a single buttonhole style, ensuring simplicity and ease of use for creating buttonholes in different fabrics.
Maximum Sewing Speed (Stitches Per Minute): 800
With a maximum sewing speed of 800 stitches per minute, the BM3850 allows for efficient and timely completion of sewing projects.
Reinforcement/Reverse Stitches: Yes
The inclusion of reinforcement/reverse stitches adds durability to your projects, preventing unraveling and ensuring longevity.
Stitch Length (mm): 4
A stitch length of 4mm provides flexibility for different fabric types and sewing techniques.
Stitch Width (mm): 5
A stitch width of 5mm caters to various stitch styles and applications, allowing for customization in sewing projects.
What’s in the box?
- Accessory feet: Zigzag foot (on machine), Zipper foot, Blind stitch foot, Buttonhole foot, Button sewing foot, Narrow hem foot
- 3 piece needle set
- 1 twin needle
- Oval screwdriver
- Extra spool pin
- Darning plate
- Bobbins (3)
- Foot controller
- Power cord
- Instructional DVD
- English/Spanish operation manual
- 25-year limited warranty
Comparison
| Feature | Brother BM3850 | Janome 8077 |
|---|---|---|
| Built-in Stitches | 37 with 63 stitch functions, satin stitch applique | 30 with 6 one-step buttonholes |
| Buttonholer | 1-step automatic with stitch balance control | 6 one-step automatic buttonholes |
| Bobbin System | Quick Set Drop-in bobbin | Top-loading bobbin system |
| Needle Threader & Bobbin Winding | Automatic | Automatic |
| Free Arm | Yes | Yes |
| Twin Needle | Yes | Yes |
| Thread Tension Control | Manual | Automatic |
| Stitch Width & Length Control | Yes | Yes |
| Needle Position Adjustment | Yes | Yes |
| Snap-On Feet | Yes | Yes |
| Portability | Lightweight, built-in handle | Portable, built-in handle |
| Accessory Feet | 7 included (Buttonhole, Gathering, Zipper, Blindstitch, Zigzag, Quilting, Quilt Guide) | 7 included (Overedge, Zigzag, Blind Hem, Automatic Buttonhole, Satin Stitch, Open Toe, Quarter Inch) |
| Lighting Type | LED | LED |
| Number of Presser Feet | 6 | 7 |
| Wide Table Included | Yes | No |
| Automatic Thread Cutter | No | Yes |
| Start/Stop Button | Yes | Yes (with speed control slider) |
| Stitch Selector Type | Stitch Dial | LCD Screen with Direct Stitch Selection |
| Thread Tension | Manual | Automatic |
| Voltage | 110v | 120v |
| Maximum Sewing Speed (Stitches/Minute) | 800 | 820 |
| Reinforcement/Reverse Stitches | Yes | Yes |
| Stitch Length (mm) | 4 | 5 |
| Stitch Width (mm) | 5 | 7 |
| Weight (lbs) | 6.71 | 18.2 |
| Dimensions (W” x D” x H”) | 10.125″ x 18.125″ x 14.75″ | 15″ x 7.25″ x 12″ |
| Included Accessories | Darning plate, accessory bag, twin needle, screwdriver, extra spool pin, bobbins (3), power cord, instructional DVD, operation manual | Bobbins, needles, spool pin, seam ripper, screwdriver, lint brush, additional spool pin, spool holder, felt, auxiliary spool pin, buttonhole foot, overedge foot, zigzag foot, zipper foot, blind hem foot, satin stitch foot, open toe foot, quarter-inch seam foot, darning foot, automatic buttonhole foot, quilting guide, hard cover |
FAQ
Q1: What makes the Brother BM3850 sewing machine suitable for beginners?
A1: The Brother BM3850 is tailored for beginners due to its user-friendly design and comprehensive functionality. It provides an intuitive interface, making it easy for novices to learn the ropes of sewing. The inclusion of features like automatic needle threading, quick-set drop-in bobbin, and a variety of built-in stitches ensures a smooth and enjoyable learning experience.
Q2: Can the Brother BM3850 handle a variety of fabrics?
A2: Absolutely! The BM3850 is designed to accommodate a wide range of fabrics, from delicate silk to sturdy denim. Its adjustable thread tension, stitch width, and length controls empower users to fine-tune settings according to the fabric type, ensuring consistent and high-quality stitches on various materials.
Q3: How portable is the Brother BM3850 sewing machine?
A3: The BROTHER BM3850 is exceptionally portable, weighing only 6.71 pounds. Its lightweight and compact design, along with a built-in handle, make it easy to carry to sewing classes, workshops, or any location where creativity strikes. This portability doesn’t compromise its full-size functionality, providing the best of both worlds.
Q4: Does the Brother BM3850 have any special features for quilting projects?
A4: Indeed! The BROTHER BM3850 caters to quilting enthusiasts with its quilting foot and quilt guide accessories. The free arm feature allows for seamless quilting of cylindrical items, while the wide table provides ample space for larger quilting projects. It’s a versatile machine that accommodates the unique requirements of quilting with ease.
Q5: How user-friendly is the Brother BM3850 for those new to sewing technology?
A5: The BROTHER BM3850 is exceptionally user-friendly, especially for those new to sewing technology. The stitch selector dial, intuitive controls, and easy threading systems are designed with simplicity in mind. The instructional DVD and operation manual provide step-by-step guidance, ensuring users can confidently navigate and utilize all the features.
Q6: Can the Brother BM3850 handle both basic and advanced sewing projects?
A6: Absolutely! Whether you’re a beginner working on simple garments or an advanced sewist diving into intricate designs, the BROTHER BM3850 caters to both ends of the spectrum. With 37 built-in stitches, including utility and heirloom stitches, and features like the twin needle for two-color stitching, it offers versatility for a wide range of sewing projects.
Q7: Is the Brother BM3850 suitable for travel use?
A7: Yes, it’s an ideal companion for travel use. The BROTHER BM3850’s lightweight and compact design, coupled with the built-in handle, make it easy to carry to sewing classes, retreats, or any location where you want to indulge in your sewing passion. Its portability doesn’t compromise its performance, ensuring you can sew on the go with ease.
Q8: How durable is the Brother BM3850 sewing machine?
A8: The BROTHER BM3850 is designed with durability in mind. The robust construction and quality materials ensure longevity and reliability. Whether you’re working on everyday projects or tackling more demanding tasks, this machine is built to withstand regular use and deliver consistent, high-quality results over time.
Q9: Can the Brother BM3850 be used for professional sewing projects?
A9: While the BROTHER BM3850 is an excellent choice for beginners and hobbyists, its features and stitch options make it suitable for some professional sewing projects as well. It’s important to consider the specific requirements of your projects, but the machine’s versatility and functionality can certainly meet the needs of a wide range of sewing endeavors.
Q10: Does the Brother BM3850 require regular maintenance?
A10: Like any sewing machine, regular maintenance is recommended to keep the BROTHER BM3850 in optimal condition. This includes cleaning the machine, changing needles regularly, and following the manufacturer’s guidelines for oiling. Performing these routine maintenance tasks ensures smooth operation and extends the lifespan of the sewing machine.
Conclusions
In conclusion, the Brother BM3850 sewing machine stands out as a versatile and user-friendly device, catering to both beginners and seasoned sewists. With a comprehensive set of features, it offers a seamless and enjoyable sewing experience.
The machine’s 37 built-in stitches, including utility and heirloom options, provide creative possibilities for a variety of projects. Its user-friendly design, including an automatic needle threader and quick-set drop-in bobbin, makes it particularly accessible for those new to sewing technology.
