Brother HC1850 Sewing Machine Review: A Versatile And Beginner-Friendly Option
The Brother HC1850 is an affordable, versatile, and computerized sewing and quilting machine that is beginner-friendly. This Brother HC1850 review covers all the key features, performance, and ease of use that makes it a great choice for exploring sewing and basic quilting projects.
Overview of the Brother HC1850 Sewing Machine
The Brother HC1850 computerized sewing machine comes with 130 built-in stitches including utility, quilting, heirloom and decorative stitches. It has 55 alphanumeric stitches for basic monogramming. Key features include an automatic needle threader, easy bobbin winding system, adjustable sewing speed, backlit LCD screen and a flip chart for convenient stitch selection.
With features like an included wide table, spring action quilting foot and free-motion capabilities, the HC1850 can handle smaller quilting projects. Its versatility, ease of use and range of accessories make this an ideal sewing machine for beginners who want to explore sewing, quilting and monogramming.
Brother HC1850 Sewing Machine Specifications
Feature | Specification |
---|---|
Stitches | 130 built-in stitches including 55 alphanumeric stitches |
Automatic Needle Threader | Yes |
Sewing Speed | 850 stitches per minute maximum |
Buttonholes | 8 one-step auto-size buttonholes |
LCD Screen | Backlit |
Included Accessories | Wide table, 8 presser feet including spring action quilting foot |
Warranty | 25-year limited |
Weight | Approx. 13 lbs |
Dimensions | 15.5″ x 12.5″ x 19″ |
Suggested image: The Brother HC1850 sewing machine
The Brother HC1850 combines user-friendly features and versatility at an affordable price point making it a great choice for beginners exploring sewing and basic quilting. Read on to learn more about its top features, performance and potential limitations.
Key Features of the Brother HC1850 Sewing Machine
The Brother HC1850 comes equipped with plenty of features to accommodate various sewing and quilting projects. Here are some of the highlights:
130 Built-in Stitches for Versatility
With 130 built-in stitches, the Brother HC1850 offers plenty of variety for sewists. The stitches include:
- 42 garment construction stitches like stretch stitch, zigzag, and blind hem stitches
- 14 quilting stitches such as hand-look quilting and stippling
- 94 decorative stitches including satin stitches and smocking
- 12 heirloom stitches
- 8 one-step auto-size buttonhole styles
Having access to multiple stitches expands your creative possibilities whether sewing clothes, quilts or crafts. The machine includes both utility stitches and decorative options.
55 Alphanumeric Stitches for Basic Monogramming
In addition to the sewing stitches, the HC1850 has a built-in monogramming font. This gives you 55 alphanumeric stitches to personalize projects with initials, names or words.
The font includes all letters A-Z, numbers 0-9 as well as some punctuation marks and symbols. While you are limited to one font, it allows for basic monogramming to customize clothes, quilts, crafts and gifts.
Convenient Automatic Needle Threader
The automatic needle threader is an essential time-saving feature, especially for beginners. With a simple lever, it effortlessly threads the eye of the needle.
No more squinting and struggling! The automatic threader does the tricky part seamlessly so you can get sewing faster.
Easy-Set Top Drop-in Bobbin
The jam-resistant quick-set bobbin on the HC1850 is beginner-friendly. Simply drop the bobbin in the top loading slot, pull the thread through the guide and you’re ready to sew.
The clear bobbin cover also lets you monitor the bobbin thread supply as you sew. Bobbin winding takes only seconds with the built-in system.
Handy Stitch Selection Tools
Choosing stitches is made simple with the Brother HC1850’s LCD display and convenient flip chart at the front.
Use the buttons to select your desired stitch, and the LCD shows the number, recommended foot, width and length settings. The flip chart provides a helpful visual guide to all the stitch options available.
Automatic Presser Foot Pressure Adjustment
Another thoughtful feature for beginners is the automatic presser foot pressure adjustment. Based on the stitch you select, the HC1850 sets the ideal pressure for the chosen presser foot.
This takes away the guesswork to get optimal results with any stitch and fabric combination.
Brightly Lit Sewing Area
An LED light illuminates the sewing area to make it easier to see stitches, especially on darker fabrics. Good lighting is essential for precise sewing.
850 Stitches Per Minute Sewing Speed
With a maximum sewing speed of 850 stitches per minute, the Brother HC1850 delivers reasonably fast stitching. It has adjustable speed control so beginners can start slow.
Wide Table for Quilting
The included wide table provides extra space to manage quilts and other large projects. This accessory aids with quilting, an area where the HC1850 excels for smaller quilt sizes.
Suggested image: The accessories and presser feet included with the Brother HC1850
With its range of features focused on ease of use, stitch variety and quilting assistance, the versatile Brother HC1850 is suited for beginners exploring sewing.
Ease of Use for Sewing Beginners
From threading to stitch selection and troubleshooting, the Brother HC1850 includes many beginner-friendly features and aids.
Instructional DVD for Getting Started
The instructional DVD that comes with the HC1850 provides a great overview of how to use the sewing machine. It covers:
- How to thread the needle and wind bobbins
- Starting your first project with basic stitches
- Choosing stitch patterns and adjusting settings
- Using the presser feet included
Watching the DVD gives beginners a helpful introduction before diving into projects. The demonstrations make the process less intimidating.
Bilingual User Manual with Sewing Tips
While the DVD provides a good visual guide, reading through the manual gives you a wealth of valuable information. It comes in both English and Spanish.
The manual’s “Sewing Basics” chapter offers many tips for success including:
- Recommendations for fabric types
- Trial stitching
- Changing sewing direction
- Sewing thicker fabrics like denim
- Sewing stretch fabrics without puckering
- Cylindrical sewing
- Stitch overcasting techniques
There are also troubleshooting tips to tackle any potential problems. Even experienced sewists may find some useful advice in the manual.
Smooth and Simple Threading
Thanks to the automatic needle threading function, the process is frustration-free. Simply lower the lever and the thread effortlessly glides through the needle.
If you struggle with manual threading, this handy mechanism eliminates the hassle. Threading the machine takes just seconds.
Quick and Easy Bobbin Winding
The Brother HC1850 makes bobbin winding a breeze. Follow these simple steps:
- Place the thread spool on the spool pin and draw the thread through the guide hole.
- Pull the thread under the bobbin winding tension disc.
- Insert the tail end of thread through the hole in the bobbin from the inside to the outside.
- Load the bobbin on the spindle and push it to the right.
- Hold the thread tail and start sewing. The bobbin stops automatically when full.
With a few minutes of practice, winding replacement bobbins becomes quick and easy. The automatic cut-off eliminates potential over-winding mistakes.
Adjustable Speed Slider for Control
The ability to control sewing speed is invaluable for beginners. The HC1850 has adjustable speed control via a sliding lever rather than relying solely on the foot pedal.
Sew at a comfortable pace that suits your skill level and the project at hand. As your experience develops, speed can be increased gradually. Mistakes are less likely at mellow speeds.
Handy Stitch Selection Flip Chart
Finding the perfect stitch is made easier thanks to the Brother HC1850’s flip chart showing all stitch options.
Browse at a glance then use the LCD screen to program the number. The accompanying guide recommends the best presser foot, stitch length and width too.
With everything visible in one place, beginners will not feel overwhelmed. Choose stitches confidently in just seconds.
Automatic Presser Foot Pressure
As mentioned earlier, the HC1850 automatically sets the ideal presser foot pressure. You don’t have to manually adjust it when switching stitch type or fabric.
One less thing to remember takes some pressure off beginners. Let the machine handle presser foot pressure calibration and enjoy the results.
With multiple aids for learning and trouble-free operation, novice sewists will feel empowered and able to build skills with the intuitive Brother HC1850.
Performance for Sewing and Quilting
Beyond ease of use, the Brother HC1850 delivers reliable performance for sewing and basic quilting projects. Here’s an overview of what it handles well and where it may fall short depending on your needs.
Smooth Fabric Feeding System
The HC1850’s feeding system provides exceptional fabric control. The feed dogs move the fabric evenly and precisely.
This results in neat, consistent stitching without puckering on most fabric types. The stitches look identical no matter what material you’re sewing.
Beginners will appreciate the lack of struggling to feed fabric smoothly. The machine handles the work for flawless output.
Works Well with Light to Mid-weight Fabrics
While not suitable for heavy materials like upholstery leather, the Brother HC1850 can handle most light to medium-weight fabrics.
It sews smoothly across woven cotton, linen, voile, poplin, satin and light denim with the appropriately sized needle. Hemming jeans and attaching denim patches is doable with care.
Loosely woven materials and silky fabrics feed well too. Just engage the zigzag stitch setting so stitches don’t get lost along the edges.
Overall, it covers most common garment and quilting fabrics for home sewists and quilters.
Reliable Buttonholes
The one-step automatic buttonholes are convenient for clothing and craft projects. Just set the style suitable for your fabric weight and let the machine sew uniform buttonholes automatically.
Both narrow and wide buttonhole styles between 0.39″ to 0.82″ come out neat and durable. The process is easy thanks to the included buttonhole foot.
Free-Motion Mode for Quilting and Sewing
By lowering the feed dogs, the Brother HC1850 can operate in free-motion mode. This lets you move the fabric manually for quilting or sewing decorative stitches.
Use a darning or free-motion foot and reposition the fabric to follow any path. The spring action quilting foot provides needed stability when quilting.
Free-motion mode grants flexibility for creative directional stitching. Practice helps improve quilted design skills.
Table and Spring Action Foot Aid Quilting
For those eager to explore quilting, the HC1850 comes with some handy accessories.
The wide table gives ample space for managing quilt layers. It provides 16 inches of extended quilting area.
The included spring action quilting foot is also beneficial. It provides consistent contact between the presser foot and fabric. This prevents shifting of fabric layers and maintains stitch consistency across the quilt.
While limited for large quilts due to the smaller throat size, it facilitates quilting projects like table runners and baby quilts.
Suggested video: How to use free-motion mode on the Brother HC1850
For the most part, the Brother HC1850 offers reliable performance for sewing and quilting lighter fabrics. The automatic features make it amenable to learners too.
Brother HC1850 Accessories and Extras
A versatile machine needs a variety of presser feet and accessories. The HC1850 delivers sufficient tools and attachments right out of the box.
8 Quick-Change Presser Feet Included
The machine comes with 8 presser feet to tackle most tasks:
- Zigzag foot – For zigzag stitches, applique, button sewing
- Buttonhole foot – Consistent one-step buttonholes
- Overcasting foot – Prevents fabric fraying
- Monogramming foot – For embroidery and decorative stitches
- Zipper foot – Close-contact sewing near zipper teeth
- Blind stitch foot – Makes nearly invisible hem stitches
- Button fitting foot – Attaching buttons
- Spring action quilting foot – Quilting stability
With multiple presser feet, you can explore various techniques like quilting, zipper insertion and garment sewing.
Detachable Wide Table
The included wide table provides extra sewing and quilting surface. At 16 inches wide, it allows managing and supporting bigger projects.
Use the extension table when quilting or sewing large amounts of fabric like drapes or tablecloths. Remove it for easy storage when not needed.
Accessory Storage and Starter Kit
The HC1850 comes with convenient onboard accessory storage behind a flip-up compartment. Sewing essentials stay organized and within reach.
An accessory kit is also included containing:
- Bobbins
- Assorted needles
- Thread spool caps
- Spool pin
- Seam ripper
- Screwdriver
- Cleaning brush
- Eyelet punch
These notions and tools will help any beginner get set up for sewing success. Not having to source basic supplies separately makes the learning curve gentler.
Instructional DVD
The bilingual instructional DVD provides informative video demonstrations on using the machine. Watching the tutorials gives you a headstart on mastering the HC1850 before starting independent projects.
Potential Drawbacks of the Brother HC1850
Although versatile for an affordable machine, the Brother HC1850 has some limitations depending on sewing needs. Being aware of the possible downsides helps set realistic expectations.
Not Suitable for Embroidery
While capable of basic monogramming with one built-in font, the HC1850 is not designed for serious embroidery work.
There is no hoop capability or way to import and edit embroidery patterns. The monogramming font size cannot be adjusted either.
For embroidery, a machine like the Brother SE600 would be better suited. It has a hoop, editing functions and can import designs off a USB stick.
Smaller Throat Size for Quilting
The HC1850’s throat space from needle to body is about 5.5 inches. This could limit managing large quilts.
For quilts beyond baby or lap sizes, a machine with a larger throat like 8 inches or more would provide needed room to roll and manipulate the fabric.
So the HC1850 suffices for smaller projects but not big quilts due to throat size constraints.
No Automatic Thread Cutter
This machine does not have a programmed automatic thread cutting function. The thread must be manually snipped with the side cutter.
While not essential, an auto thread cutter would increase convenience, especially when sewing longer seams or projects with greater thread consumption.
Lightweight Plastic Construction
Weighing around 13 pounds, the Brother HC1850 has a plastic body making it one of the lighter sewing machines available.
While the plastic body is beneficial for portability, some sewists may prefer a heavier metal chassis for stability and durability. The lighter construction could also increase noise levels compared to metal.
For travel or classes, the plastic body is advantageous. But all-day sewists may want the heft of metal for vibration reduction and sturdiness over decades of use.
Alternative Sewing Machines to Consider
The Brother HC1850 is a versatile beginner-friendly sewing machine. However, your needs may be better met by a different model. Here are some alternatives to consider:
Brother CS7000i – Has a similar feature set but includes a hard protective case. Better for basic clothing construction than quilting.
Singer Quantum Stylist 9960 – Computerized model with 600 stitches, 13 buttonholes and extended sewing table. Ideal for clothing.
Janome MC6650 – High-end model with superior stitch quality and more quilting functionality.
Brother XR9550PRW – Very similar model but limited to 105 stitches. Better for clothing than quilting.
Brother SE600 – Good for embroidery with hoop capability and design editing functions. Costs more than the HC1850.
Conclusion and Recommendation
The Brother HC1850 offers versatility, ease of use and great value at an affordable price point. For beginners interested in exploring garment sewing, quilting and monogramming, it provides a range of user-friendly features to develop skills.
The 130 built-in stitches, automatic needle threader, adjustable speed, intuitive display and included wide table accommodate many types of sewing and quilting projects. Smooth fabric feeding and helpful accessories add to its overall value.
Keep in mind that this machine has limits for embroidery, large quilts and very heavy fabrics. It also lacks an auto thread cutter. But for most general home sewing and smaller quilting work using light to medium fabrics, it delivers reliable performance.
For anyone seeking an all-purpose sewing machine that covers all the bases, provides room to grow and costs under $200, the Brother HC1850 hits the sweet spot. It earns our recommendation as a worthwhile investment for beginners that facilitates learning sewing and basic quilting.