I have owned (and loved) my Brother PQ for many years and he is a sewing warrior! There is no fabric he cannot sew, from the most delicate to the thickest! The adjustable feed dog options up front makes a great difference on how he handles different fabrics (especially on delicate fabrics where you need the pin-feed). If someone is a quilter who just does "piecing" THIS is a must have machine. I am predominately a garment and costume sewer and between my PQ and my serger that is all I need (well, except for having to use my other Brother to make button holes :). Great review, Amanda.

I learned to sew w A machine with a bobbin case( no issues) and a side needle hole, I feel it makes it easier to thread the needle, as it is easier to reach the thread w my right hand as it pokes through the needle. I am very interested in this machine, thanks for the review.

After watching this review, I ordered the Brother PQ1500SL. I sew handbags, backpacks, etc. I am SO HAPPY with this machine! Thank you for the time you spent on this review and doing such a great job!!

I have had this machine for a couple of years now. AND I LOVE it so much! Your review is spot on! :)

I bought this machine I think almost a year ago. And I do love this machine. I do a lot of jean repairs. And this is the first machine I have used in a long time that sews like a dream. This machine is similar to the same thread setup as the industrial machines I use to use at my old job.

Thank you for this! This machine just arrived today, and I'm anxious to get started. The different feed dog positions are intimidating, but your saying you haven't moved yours is very encouraging. As soon as I finish this comment, I'm going to thread my machine and start sewing. Hope I don't have to adjust the tension -- that really scares me! Thank you, again. I'm glad I found you! Looking forward to more of your videos!!

Love your review. I have this exact sewing machine. I got it in November. I I agree with all that you said. I love the power and speed that it has. I had trouble with the tension at first, also with the threading. I put the needle in wrong the first time. I agree with you, my other sewing machine feet are so easy to change compared to this one. I love, love, love the thread cutter, I never had one before. I have the knee lifter on, but sometimes forget to use it. It’s definitely a keeper!

Amanda, very good review here. I originally bought this to use on my SR2 quilting frame, and it did wonderfully, both free form and panto's. ! As for the thread popping out, yes, it happens. Painters tape takes care of that trouble spot. I do however love the amount of thread on the metal bobbing case, extremely easy to adjust. And once you get used to this machines nuances, you'll blow thru fabric like a race car. Each machine has it's idiosyncrasies, but overall this is an awesome machine, semi-industrial and tough as nails. I've sewn leather American Indian flute cases on this, and it's like a hot knife thru butter! Fast, fast, fast! For those who FMQ, the throat space is awesome! I used my Janome HD-3000 for applique. For those considering this machine, I highly suggest purchasing it, you won't be disappointed!

What an excellent speaker or should I say brilliant you are! You explained everything I wanted to know exactly with correct English! You are terrific and have a nice mannerism to boot! Than you so much for making your video. Sincerely, Karen

I just got this machine and totally agree with you on everything! Finally gave up on the needle threader! But...... I love this beast of a machine! Free motion quilting my quilts is great fun and easy!

You did a wonderful job Amanda! Honest and straightforward in your experience with the machine. Definitely makes me want one!

Thx Amanda for your honest review. I'm so close to pulling the trigger and buying this machine. I've watched all of the reviews that are on KZfaq and basically all have said the same thing about the bobbin. Not a deal breaker for me. Seemed hit or miss on the tension/threading of the machine. I was waiting on yours as I knew you would give an honest opinion. Not that the others weren't honest lol. 😋. Appreciate the time you took to review. Have a great day!!!!!!

Great review. I am happy you're enjoying your lovely new machine.

I’ve been looking at buying this machine and found this review so helpful! I’ve only really worked with an industrial machine and now working from home wanted to find a good domestic one.. this sounds like the perfect mix of domestic and industrial! Will definitely be investing.. Thankyou!

Fantastic overall review. You answered many of the questions that I had about this machine. Thank you 🙏

I just got this machine , I had trouble threading it myself! I haven't really had a chance to work on it . I am looking forward to sewing on my new machine. Lots of projects I have planned to do. I got this machine for quilting . Thanks for doing this video.

Another person suggested winding two bobbins and instead of using a spool in the top; they will run out at same time Thought it was genius

My favorite go to sewing machine I have. Quilted many bedside quilts on mine before I got my longarm.

Thank you so much for your honest review. I'm in the market for a new machine and your thorough review is so helpful.

Good to see you Amanda. If or when you use the knee lift, be prepared for INSTANT LOVE. It is a third hand that will make your life so much easier. Curves become so much quicker and it also makes the initial feed of the fabric more precise when chain piecing. Have a lot of fun getting to know each other.

Never having seen a machine with four different positions for the feed dogs, I think that’s great. On my machine it’s either feed dogs up or down.

Your machine is designed just like an old Kenmore cabinet machine I use to have, and also a Singer machine. The bobbin was always underneath in a case and managing the case takes some familiarity with how it is designed to work but easy to get use to. Also, the thread tension button should keep your thread from falling out of the thread guide hooks if you tighten it. You just need to play with is a bit to see what is the best setting, also the needle threaded just like yours does to the side. Funny, what is now new, was what I used a long - time ago. Also, something I wish they would bring back was that there use to be a piece of metal that hung down beneath the machine that you pressed with the side of your knee area to operate the machine, that was replaced with the foot pedal. But, it was actually easier to just lightly lean your leg a little bit to operate the machine with a knee pedal instead of the foot pedal.

Thank you for the truly honest review. At last a pros & cons list. So in death. I wish everyone would do the same for a review. I feel I’m much better informed.

Great review Amanda, thank you!

Thanks for the review -- Painters Tape for the spot where your table meets the bed of the machine. ;)

I recently purchased a Pfaff 1200 Hobby Quilter, and it looks a lot like this. The whole bobbin thing...YES...my other machine the bobbin is on top, and I can see when i'm getting low. The Pfaff has the same bobbin case as yours, and it's hard to get used to the side mount. I struggled for 30 minutes the last time trying to insert it, and it just wouldn't go in. Finally realized that my needle was down, and so it wouldn't go in. FYI - make sure the needle is in the up position BEFORE trying to insert bobbin case! LOL!!! Looks like a nice machine, thank you for sharing your thoughts on it!

Just bought this machine I pick it up tomorrow yeah! Thanks

Great, detailed review. Although this machine doesn’t sound like it would work well for me, your review was appreciated as it makes me a better informed consumer. Thank you!

Well done! Great review Amanda!

Great review. The bobbin and needle placement are the same as on an industrial machine. The knee lift is always on an industrial and I think if you used it you would love it. In regards to the threading, if you work in a sewing factory you don't rethread every time, you cut the thread near where the cotton reel sits, tie on your new thread and pull the new thread through and rethread the eye of the needle. I still have my industrial machines but I'm definitely looking for something to replace them and this machine looks like it will do the job. Anyway thanks for the great review and I hope you are enjoying using it.

Excellent honest review. Thank you.

I have to agree 100%. I have owned this machine for around 6 years. I do not use the needle threader for the same reason. It is a pain. If this machine ever becomes a top loading bobbin.....id buy that one. 😂

Thankyou for taking the time to review and give genuine feedback and guidance. I’m fairly new to quilting and need to buy a decent specialised machine better than my basic model. Som many options at various price points - it’s very difficult to work out what would be best. Your review is very helpful!

If you don’t feel like threading it all the way. I just cut it and tie it back.even when I’m switching thread colors. Then just pull it through. But you still have to thread the needle again. I can’t wait to own this same machine but loved it when I got to use this machine for a bit.

This has helped and encouraged me so much. Thank you

This is a fantastic overview of this machine. I've had mine for about a year. I totally agree with your pros and cons. I quilt as well as garment sew. The pin feed and other feed dog positions are wonderful to have. It sews the slinkiest chiffon as well as layers of denim with ease.

Great and very accurate review! Thank you so much!

Thank you. Just received this as gift so review was helpful

This is a very good review. I would like to have seen examples of what you are talking about though as I am new to sewing and have never quilted. I understand that takes much more time recording and editing but it would have made this one of the best sewing machine reviews I've ever seen. Still great though. Thanks!!

Thank you. Your review was very organized and detailed, it answered most of my questions. I do have a question: Have you noticed stitch skipping at any speed, or have the stitches been consistent front and back of garments? Some machines have a slight delay during high speeds.

Thank you for a great review, now I know what to look for if I ever get one :-) Looking forward to see your next tutorial with your new sewing machine. Happy Easter from Norway

I recently WAY-upgraded to a BL Unity, and its needle threader is phenomenal, but with previous machines, I just couldn't use their threaders. They were completely useless. I would thread by hand, too, and I found a trick that helped - if you wet your finger and place it _behind_ the eye, the thread wicks towards the moisture, helping it go through the hole more quickly. Love the thorough review!!! It sounds like it's similar to the Juki TL-2010q (which I still want...).

One way to fix the last con...... is because of the design there's that spot where it can catch... easy fix is to just put a piece of tape over that section and you won't catch on it. Your review was helpful and there were things that I found would drive me bonkers and not something that I could stand. I don't like the "open" threads. To me that's just asking for problems. So I thank you for your honest review. :)

Great review. I love the top you are wearing. So pretty on you.

Great review. Thank you

Your review is very good and very honest.

I love that video. I just got the pq1500sl this morning as a gift from my bf n brother. Can you maybe do a video on how to wind and load the bobbin and how to thread the upper part of the machine?

Amanda, thank you for your overview opinion of the Brother PQ1500SL. I have just ordered one and an honest opinion is hard to come by. Re the threading of the machine, I am looking at it this way - it goes back to the old Singers, either treadle or hand cranked. The threading system is very much like them and is what I actually learned to sew on. Hopefully I won't have any problems with that area. I also love all those feed dogs as a machine of that calibre (HD) to be able to sew several layers of denim and then go and sew up some chiffon is amazing. I love that kind of versatility. I am really looking forward to the day mine arrives. BTW I don't think I would be able to use the knee lever as I am of short stature. So far I have not found one I could use - maybe this time?

Thank you for your video. Just ordered my Juki1500 so 1500. Can’t wit!

Thanks for that review, I'm of today to pick up my own. Alot of the things you said you would have to get used to are things I had to do on my old machines many moons ago, so I should be okay with it, like threading the machine and that darned old bobbin case, I've been spoiled with the new machines. I feel like I'm going backwards. Lol but my old white machine I bought 47 years ago has some issues I'd like to get fixed, like the bobbin case flew apart one day not bad for an oldie, and my lever for my feed dogs is stuck. It's actually a very similar work horse to the brother but it came with 24 design cams for embroidery. Like this old White . I better fix her. Thx again.

Last month I purchased the same machine. Thought you did an excellent job reviewing it and I agree with your comments PRO (thread cutter; speed; solid build; wide throat, bobbin threading and large extension table) and CON (needle threader; invisible bobbin;) After 5 weeks of pretty heavy use, I have a serious CON and a few additional PRO comments. CON: My machine constantly jams and causes "bird nests" on the underside. This requires a lot of time and effort to clear the bobbin and remove broken threads from under the feed dog mechanism ; also unpicking the huge mess of wasted thread. I have adjusted tension and everything else per Brother Help Line and nothing seems to fix the problem. Any thoughts?. CON: 1. Needle replacement & threading 2. Bobbin removal & replacement: 3. Machine Threading, adjusting and re-threading: All three are Inconvenient / awkward /difficult for anyone with medium - large hands on the plus side... PRO: Knee Lifter is amazing. Turning corners when adding binding on quilts; and any other sewing project that requires repositioning the material! Hold on to fabric with needle down - Hit the lever, turn fabric, release lever and keep sewing - easy & convenient. PRO: Feed Dog position adjustment - lower feed dogs for free form quilting; raise feed dog w/pin for heavy fabrics; normal setting for most fabrics.

Awesome choice! This machine seems similar to my Juki 2000Qi. I got used to the bobbin very quickly. Can't beat the speed on a straight stitch machine.

I just purchased this sewing machine. Thanks for the video. Can you show how to put the bobbin in the machine.

Thank you for the review. I have had this machine for some time and I love it. Your review was spot on and I would agree with you. But, I really am in love with sewing machines in general, sergers, too. When you can make something that you give away, and the person is so touched that you made them something, I feel really good inside. Best to you, Donna

Thank you for sharing your thoughts.. My only con is that it doesn't have zigzag so overcast seams or stretch tri motion is not an option for this beautiful machine ..otherwise it sings very sweetly..

Hope you started using the knee lifter. It's a game changer for any type of sewing. Don't have to worry about fabric shifting while lifting and dropping the pressor foot by hand.

Hope this is okay to add... I just started a Facebook group called "Sewing with Modern Straight Stitch Sewing Machines" and would be thrilled if some of you would like to join me, to talk about and help each other with these machines--they are definitely a different experience.

Very informative. I bought the babylock version. I hope you will show how to quilt a quilt.

I found the needle threader difficult at first, but I had seen other people use it quickly and knew it could be done, so I kept trying different things and now I can thread it perfectly on the first try. First, the needle has to be in the right spot, and the best way to get it there is to push the auto thread cutter button--the needle will stop where it needs to be for threading. Second, after you have the threader in position and have slipped the thread into it, very gently pull the thread that's in front toward the right, and the thread that's in back toward the right and a little upward. Then pull the needle -threader back and you'll feel a little tug--that's the loop of thread coming through the eye. This has to be done gently--if you pull too hard, the thread will be too taut and won't go anywhere.

Great review

Thank you so much for your indept honest review. You did a great job!!

Thanks for the great review! Most of your cons were things I was already aware I'd be losing from my current machine (not seeing the bobbin and an auto threader) but you confirmed that what I hope to gain from straight stitch only machine should still make it worth it. I didn't realize it used different feet than my other brother machines though, bummer!

Curious, are you still loving the machine? I just bought one and used your unboxing tutorial, it was helpful to me.

thankyou for this review,what is your recommendation as a machine for great straight stitch, zig zag,button hole, blind hem.. just really good basic garment construction with a perfect stitch tension. for medium and fine fabrics...

Sounds like a very nice heavy duty machine to,use for straight stitching.

The machine appears to be a very basic setup and also a bit retro in it's features. The side bobbin indicates the direction of the needle as Amanda had mentioned, easy way to remember that is they work together and face one another! I like the wide throat and extra work table plus the added weight would be a huge bonus as I've found the newer machines are too light and can bounce around making straight line stitching quite a challenge...but I tend to sew faster exacerbating the problem. The threading and exposed thread is also very basic as older machines were in the older machines, although the thread shouldn't come out of the guides with use. I did not understand the knee lifter at all nor its purpose but I probably could figure it out if I looked into the machine. Your review has been helpful, thank you and happy sewing!

Youve sold me. I ws torn between this and the Juki 2010tl yayy

Nice review. Please can it also be used in sewing without electricity?

Great share very appreciated. After 4 years has the machine still serving you well ? Still recommend? Thanks

So for garment sewing and the machine not having a zig zag option, is there another way to complete the edges against fraying without having a serger? TY

Hello! Great review, thanks! I would like to get this machine. One of the reasons I want it is because of the needle up or down button. However, I was surprised to see in the manual that the only option for the needle position is “down” and that if you don’t press that button, the needle will stop at a random spot!! Is this your experience? I imagine that when you use the thread cutter, the needle is left in the “up” position... but what if you don’t use the thread cutter?

Thanks for the review! I’m looking to buy my first sewing machine and would prefer to not go for a total entry level one that I end up selling in a year’s time. I’m mostly looking at making clothes and reckon that I’m happy to forfeit having zigzag stitches and buttonholes if I can have a really professional looking straight stitch. This machine looks like it has a few key but simple features and that I’m not going to have major problems with tension or wonky stiches? Do you maybe have any thoughts on this? I’ve also gotten impatient with my mom’s slow machine so speed sounds great and I like that I could maybe try to see leather or denim etc :)

Hi Amanda, I was wondering if the Brother PQ1500SL needs to be "Oiled" at all? I enjoyed your review with the Cons, which are really few & just getting used to the machines features. I'm not fond of any of the threading features on any machine .. I always prick my finger with the needle. I'm thinking of this Brother PQ1500SL, so many amazing features .. I'm partial to Brother Sewing Machines. Thank you so much for the review. Be well and be safe.

So I was confused about the needle threaded too. The manual says the threader won’t work for certain combos, namely a number 9/65 needle with 50wt.

Hi Amanda, would you happen to know if they carry a stitch in the ditch foot for this machine?

Would love to see a demonstration

Hi, do you have a video where you quilt using this machine?

Amanda, your problem is that you new how to drive a car with automatic, but now you got your car with a stick shift. In normal life it should be in the reverse order. :-) Basically, I just wanted to say that I love your video and I enjoyed your nice and soft speech. Thank you. P.S. If you try the knee lifter and get accustom to it, you will understand how USEFUL it is. Good luck!

Good review! I bought this machine last December for quilting. I have it on a quilting frame. There is definitely a technique to using the needle threader. make sure needle is in highest position. Pull thread straight forward and then lower the threader. If this is done the right way, the thread will naturally fall to the right side of the pin and more easily thread through the needle. It took me a while to get it right but when you do, it works. However, I much prefer the auto needle threader on my other machine which is just a push of a button! Another hint in the manual that is easily missed is to use all 3 holes of the thread guide when using polyester thread. Knowing this will alleviate a lot of frustration if you have thread breaks or tangles. Don’t know why that makes a difference but it does!

Hello, Amanda! I, too, am interested in the PQ1500SL. I've been researching into its strengths and limitations. The sewing machine is for home use only. It is not an industrial sewing machine. It can not sew on any type of fabric. V-69 is the heaviest commercial size thread recommended for home sewing machines. A V-69 thread will sew Fabric weight 3-6 oz. any fabric heavier is not advisable to sew on and that is all I wanted to share with you. I am not a master quilter nor seamstress, so don't take the information as if from an authority in this matter. Please do research for yourself if someone wants to sew on heavy fabrics. Amanda, you do such good works in helping me to learn from your tutorials and your beautiful blocks inspire. Thank you! May Lord Jesus Christ bless you and your loved ones. Holy Mary Mother of God, please pray for us. ~ Heather

I was thinking about the the other day and wondering how you and your lady were doing??????Have you thought of a name??? Wow they need to hire you!!!! Awesome review. It seems to be very quiet too???? One question, what is the throat plate depth?? From the needle to the right. Glad to hear that you two are getting to know each other..... Thank you....

I lovey needle threader on this machine.

Beautiful Review. Is this a quiet machine?

How do you oil all the spots in the machine tat need oiling?

does it have self threading feature?

Hi Amanda, could you please upload a tutorial on how to load the bobbin thread? Thank you, x

Thank you for your video! I have a Question, did you make the top that you are wearing? its so stunning, if so could you please share your design template? :-)

thank you for sharing this. IS is a quiet machine?

I know what you mean with regards to the auto threader I haven't used it in over a year. You will get to the point when you'll know when your bobbin is going to run out. I usually have a bunch of them wound so I can just change it. I don't understand the un threading itself, that has never happened for me or anyone I know. I thought you were going to try to do FMQ this is definitely the machine to do it with. I switch between machines depending on what I'm doing sometimes I have to pull out the manual to do it.

Thank you for this review Amanda. This wouldn't be a machine I would want to purchase.

Would have been nice to have a picture of the different feet. Doses it come with a zipper foot?

Great review, Thankyou. Btw where did you get your top, it’s gorgeous and looks so good on you.

Love the review. Can you demo the thread cutter? Do you have to hit the sissor button each time to the the thread? I've been looking at your Brother and the Juki 2010Q.

I am comparing the brother pq1500sl with the Juki tl2010q and your review really helped!

I just got one and trying to adjust to it. My issues are threading, tension etc

Hi Amanda, Is this a low shank or high shank machine?

Hi so I just got this sewing machine and I can’t get the lower thread to sew. Do you have any tips?

Hi Amanda, can I ask where you purchased this machine. I bought this machine from Amazon 4 days ago and I now have to return it. The USA voltage on the machine is not suitable for the Uk or Ireland. I did not know this at the time and I plugged it in and the machine went pop. I overloaded the machine because of the wrong wattage. I searched high and low all over the Internet looking for a supply of this model. Please advise, I would be ever so grateful.

Running out of bobbin happens with a lot of machines. I have never owned one that lets you know when you are running out. So no big deal to me.

Thank u 😍