Brother SM1400 Review: Features, Pros, Cons, Best Comparison, FAQ

let’s dive deep into the features of the Brother SM1400 sewing machine in a friendly and informative manner.

Built-In Stitches: Your Creative Toolbox

First things first, let’s talk about the Brother SM1400’s 14 built-in stitches. It’s like having a toolbox of creative options right at your fingertips. These stitches cover everything from blind hems and stretch stitches to buttonholes and zipper insertion. No matter what you’re sewing, you’ve got a stitch for it.

 Each stitch as a brush in an artist’s kit, ready to paint your fabric with unique designs and functions.

Automatic 4-Step Buttonholer: Mastering Buttonholes

Now, buttonholes can be a bit tricky, especially for beginners. But this sewing machine has your back with its automatic 4-step buttonholer. It’s like having a personal buttonhole expert by your side. Just follow the simple steps, and you’ll create perfect buttonholes without breaking a sweat.

Say goodbye to buttonhole-induced stress and hello to beautifully finished projects.

Included Sewing Feet: Your Sidekicks

Meet your trusty sidekicks: Zigzag J foot, Zipper I foot, Buttonhole A foot, and Button sewing M foot. These are like the best friends of your sewing journey. Each foot is specially designed to make your life easier.

Zigzag J foot for versatile stitching, Zipper I foot for smooth zipper insertions, Buttonhole A foot for creating buttonholes, and Button sewing M foot for securely attaching buttons.

No more struggling to find the right foot or feeling overwhelmed by complicated attachments.

Compact and Lightweight: Your Sewing Companion

Now, let’s talk about the Brother SM1400’s size and weight. It’s compact, measuring just 6 x 15.4 x 15.4 inches, and lightweight at 13 pounds. 

Whether you have a dedicated sewing room or you’re sewing in a corner of your living room, this machine fits right in. And when you’re done, it’s easy to tuck away.

Bright LED Sewing Light: Shedding Light on Your Creations

Ever sewn in a dimly lit room and struggled to see your stitches? It can be frustrating. That’s where the bright LED sewing light comes to the rescue. It’s like having a spotlight on your sewing project.

The bright light illuminates your work area, so you can sew with precision, no matter the lighting conditions.

No more squinting or holding your work up to the window to see better. Your sewing area is well-lit, making your projects a breeze.

Convertible Flatbed/Free Arm: Adapting to Your Needs

One of the coolest features of the Brother SM1400 is its convertible sewing surface. It’s like having a chameleon of a sewing machine.

Working on sleeves or cuffs? Use the narrower arm for precision. Switching to larger projects like quilts or curtains? The wider bed provides the space you need. It adapts to your project’s unique requirements.

You’re not limited by the size of your sewing machine; it adapts to you.

Built-In Accessory Storage: Tidiness is Bliss

Sewing often involves a lot of little tools, like bobbins, presser feet, and needles. The Brother SM1400 takes care of the clutter with built-in accessory storage. It’s like having a tidy little drawer right in your machine.

You don’t have to hunt around your sewing room for that one missing bobbin or foot. Everything you need is neatly organized and within reach.

Electronic Speed Control: Sew at Your Pace

Sewing isn’t a one-speed-fits-all kind of activity. Sometimes you need to slow down for delicate work, and other times you want to speed things up. The Brother SM1400 puts you in control with its electronic speed control.

It’s like the gas pedal in your car. You determine how fast or slow you want to sew. It’s your sewing machine, and you set the pace.

Forward and Reverse Sewing: Locking in Your Stitches

Now, here’s a feature that’s like your sewing insurance. Forward and reverse sewing allows you to lock in your stitches.

When you start a seam, you can go forward. When you want to secure the seam, you go backward. It’s like reinforcing your stitches, ensuring they won’t unravel over time.

I can’t tell you how many times this feature has saved my sewing projects from falling apart.

Instructional DVD Included: Your Personal Sewing Teacher

If you’re new to sewing, this is a feature you’re going to love. The Brother SM1400 comes with an instructional DVD. It’s like having your very own sewing teacher right in your living room.

The DVD walks you through everything you need to know to get started with the machine. It covers setup, basic functions, and even some sewing techniques. It’s a fantastic resource for beginners.

Quick-Set Bobbin System: Bobbin Woes, Begone!

Threading the bobbin can be a real headache, especially when you’re just starting. But the Brother SM1400 simplifies the process with its Quick-Set bobbin system.

It’s like the magic wand of bobbin threading. You drop the bobbin in, follow the path, and you’re ready to sew. No more tangles or frustrations.

Top Load Horizontal Bobbin: Easy Threading Every Time

Have you ever struggled with threading the bobbin? It can be a little tricky. But the Brother SM1400’s top load horizontal bobbin makes it a breeze.

Threading is straightforward, and you have easy access to the bobbin. It’s like a secret shortcut to hassle-free sewing.

Simple Stitch Selector Dial: Picking Stitches Made Easy

Choosing the right stitch for your project is crucial. The Brother SM1400 simplifies this with a user-friendly stitch selector dial.

It’s like turning the dial on your favorite radio station. You select the stitch you want, and it’s as easy as that. No complicated settings or steep learning curves. It’s intuitive and accessible.

Quick-Set Drop-In Bobbin System: No More Bobbin Drama

We’ve all had our fair share of bobbin-related drama. But the Quick-Set drop-in bobbin system puts those worries to rest.

It’s like a friendly neighbor who drops by with a tray of freshly baked cookies. This system ensures that your bobbin is correctly placed for even, consistent stitches. No more uneven tension or missed stitches.

Convertible Sewing Surface: Adapting to Your Projects

Whether you’re sewing narrow items like sleeves or working on larger projects, the Brother SM1400’s convertible sewing surface has got you covered.

It’s like having a sewing machine that knows exactly what you need. The narrower arm provides precision for smaller projects, while the wider bed accommodates larger fabrics and quilts.

You’re not limited by the size of your machine; it adapts to your project.

Button Features: Simplifying Button Tasks

Now, let’s talk about buttons. Whether you’re sewing them on or creating buttonholes, these tasks can be a bit daunting. But the Brother SM1400 simplifies the process with its button features.

It’s like having a personal assistant for button-related tasks. It includes a 4-step buttonhole stitch, a buttonhole foot, and a button sewing foot. These specialized features make sewing buttons and creating buttonholes a breeze.

No more struggling to get those buttons on straight or worrying about uneven buttonholes.

Lightweight and Portable: Your Sewing Companion

If you’re short on space or don’t have a dedicated sewing room, the Brother SM1400’s compact size and lightweight design are a dream come true.

It’s like having a sewing companion who’s always ready for an adventure. Weighing only 13 pounds, it’s easy to move and set up wherever you like.

Your creative space can be wherever you are, and this machine will be right there with you.

No One-Step Buttonhole Feature: A Few Extra Steps

Now, I want to be honest with you. The Brother SM1400 doesn’t have a one-step buttonhole feature. Creating buttonholes involves a 4-step process.

It’s not overly complicated, but it’s good to know that you’ll need to follow a few extra steps.

If you’re patient and detail-oriented, it’s not a deal-breaker, but it’s something to keep in mind.

Basic Stitch Features: The Essentials

This machine offers the essential stitches you need for most sewing tasks. While it’s not loaded with fancy decorative stitches, it covers the basics beautifully.

Think of it as your reliable everyday vehicle. You might not have all the bells and whistles, but you’ve got everything you need to get from point A to point B.

Mechanical, Not Computerized: Simple and Reliable

The Brother SM1400 is a mechanical sewing machine, not a computerized one.

This means it doesn’t have the bells and whistles of computerized models, like automatic needle threaders or digital displays.

But it’s like your dependable old friend who’s always there when you need them. It’s straightforward, reliable, and doesn’t overwhelm you with complicated tech.

In a world filled with high-tech gadgets, this machine is refreshingly simple. It’s like going back to the basics and enjoying the pure joy of sewing.

Compact Size: Perfect for Small Spaces

Its compact size is a real advantage if you’re short on space. Whether you’re sewing at the kitchen table or in a cozy corner of your living room, this machine won’t take up much room. It’s like having a sewing studio that fits right in your closet.

Ideal for Home Repairs and Small Projects: Your Go-To Solution

If you’re into home repairs or enjoy working on small sewing projects, this machine is your go-to solution. It’s like having a handy toolkit for sewing. It handles common mending tasks and basic sewing projects with ease.

Suitable for Beginners: Easy Learning Curve

If you’re just starting your sewing journey, this machine is a friendly companion. The learning curve is a gentle slope, not a steep hill. 

Affordable Price Point: Budget-Friendly Sewing

The Brother SM1400 is wallet-friendly. It’s like getting a high-quality product without breaking the bank. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced sewist, the price point is hard to beat.

Maximum Sewing Speed of 900 Stitches Per Minute: Speedy Results

With a maximum sewing speed of 900 stitches per minute, this machine lets you zip through your projects. It’s like having a turbo boost for your sewing. Your projects get done faster, and you can enjoy the satisfaction of speedy results.