Brother PE535 Embroidery Machine Review: Affordable And User-Friendly Option
The Brother PE535 embroidery machine is an embroidery-only machine that is popular among beginner embroiderers due to its affordable price point and ease of use. This blog post will provide a comprehensive review of the features, pros and cons, and overall value of the Brother PE535 embroidery machine.
Overview of the Brother PE535 Embroidery Machine
The Brother PE535 is an embroidery-only machine, meaning it cannot sew regular stitches. It has a maximum hoop size of 4″ x 4″, which limits larger embroidery projects. This machine comes with 80 built-in embroidery designs and 9 built-in fonts to get you started.
The Brother PE535 features a large 3.2″ LCD color touchscreen that allows you to preview designs before stitching. There is a USB port for importing additional embroidery designs from your computer. An automatic needle threader makes threading the machine very easy.
Brother provides a 25-year limited warranty with this machine. The Brother PE535 is manufactured in Vietnam and weighs 14.99 lbs with dimensions of 16.5″ x 7.8″ x 12″.
The Brother PE535 embroidery machine
Brother PE535 embroidery machine video review
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Machine Type | Embroidery-only |
| Built-in Designs | 80 |
| Built-in Fonts | 9 |
| Maximum Hoop Size | 4″ x 4″ |
| Display Screen | 3.2″ LCD color touchscreen |
| Connectivity | USB port |
| File Format | .pes |
| Weight | 14.99 lbs |
| Dimensions | 16.5″ x 7.8″ x 12″ |
| Warranty | 25-year limited |
| Origin | Vietnam |
Benefits of the Brother PE535 Embroidery Machine
There are many benefits that make the Brother PE535 embroidery machine a great choice, especially for beginner embroiderers.
Affordable Price Point
One of the main benefits of this machine is its affordable price, especially when compared to other embroidery-only machines on the market. The Brother PE535 provides excellent value for beginners looking to get started with embroidery without spending a fortune.
User-Friendly for Beginners
The Brother PE535 is designed to be very easy to learn and use, even for complete beginners. Features like the automatic needle threader and large color LCD touchscreen make it intuitive and convenient. Many reviewers mention how they were able to start embroidering within minutes of taking it out of the box.
Convenient Features
In addition to the automatic needle threader, other convenient features include the built-in tutorials that teach you how to use the machine directly on the LCD screen. The touchscreen display makes it easy to preview and place embroidery designs with just a few taps.
High-Quality Results
Despite the affordable price, the Brother PE535 embroidery machine produces high-quality embroidery and stitching. Users mention the “pretty stitching” and how comparable the results are to more expensive machines.
Popular Machine with Great Reviews
The Brother PE535 enjoys stellar reviews from most users. It has earned ratings of 4.5 out of 5 stars on Amazon based on over 1,400 reviews. Many users mention they love the machine and wish they had bought it sooner.
Holds Resale Value
Should you ever wish to upgrade to a more advanced embroidery machine, the Brother PE535 tends to hold its value very well on the secondhand market. The availability of replacement parts and Brother’s customer support contribute to the ongoing value.
The Brother PE535 enjoys excellent reviews and ratings
Limitations of the Brother PE535
While the Brother PE535 excels in many areas, especially for the price, there are some limitations to consider.
Small 4″ x 4″ Hoop Size
The maximum hoop size of 4″ x 4″ does constrain the embroidery area for larger designs. You would need to re-hoop the fabric to complete different sections of the design. So intricate backings and pre-assembled garments can be trickier.
Embroidery Only
This machine does not have the capability to sew regular stitches. So you cannot use it for general sewing projects or attaching embellishments. You would need a separate sewing machine or consider a Brother combination embroidery/sewing machine model.
Limited Built-In Designs
While 80 built-in designs are enough to get started, this pales in comparison to the design libraries found in some higher-end embroidery machines. If you want a huge variety without importing new designs, this could be limiting.
Limited Availability in Stores
The Brother PE535 tends to be sold primarily online through retailers like Amazon, limiting hands-on testing before purchasing. Brick-and-mortar availability is mostly limited to larger craft stores. Purchasing online does offer benefits like easy price comparisons, reviews, and home delivery.
Who is the Brother PE535 Best Suited For?
While the 4″ x 4″ hoop size limits very large projects, the Brother PE535 is ideal for many embroiderers, especially in the following categories:
Beginner Embroiderers
The easy learning curve, convenient features, and affordable price point make the Brother PE535 an excellent first embroidery machine for beginners. Starting out with a more advanced machine could be overwhelming. The PE535 lets beginners grasp the basics without frustration.
Those with Limited Space
As a compact embroidery machine, the Brother PE535 is a great choice if you have limited work space. It takes up minimal surface area but still offers essential embroidery features.
Small Embroidery Projects
If you specialize in projects like hand towels, onesies, gift items, and other small goods, the 4″ x 4″ hoop shouldn’t pose much limitation. The PE535 will enable beautiful embroidery results.
Crafters and DIYers
Crafters who want to elevate their projects with embroidery accents will find the Brother PE535 easy to incorporate into their craft room. The built-in designs and fonts are perfect for embellishing handmade goods.
Users Wanting Good Value
If your budget is limited but you want more than the most basic machine, the PE535 gives you excellent capabilities and longevity without breaking the bank. You can always upgrade later once you improve your skills.
How Does the Brother PE535 Compare to Similar Models?
When considering your purchase, it helps to compare the Brother PE535 against comparable embroidery-only machines in a similar class and price range.
More User-Friendly Than Singer or Husqvarna
Entry-level embroidery models from Singer and Husqvarna tend to have higher price tags than the PE535 but with fewer convenient features for new users. Their functionality may be similar, but the Brother offers better ease of use.
Nearly Identical to the Brother PE550D
The PE550D is very nearly the same machine as the PE535, with the main exception being the inclusion of Disney embroidery designs. So if you do not need the Disney elements, the PE535 will save you a bit of money for the same capabilities.
Janome MC230E Offers a 5″ x 7″ Hoop
Janome’s MC230E embroidery machine compares closely to the Brother PE535 in price and features, but it does offer the ability to use a larger 5″ x 7″ hoop. However, Janome machines have a smaller user base, so the support system is not as strong.
Significantly Smaller Than the Brother PE800
The Brother PE800 moves up to a more advanced user class with its 5″ x 7″ maximum hoop size. But that jump comes with a 60-70% price increase over the very budget-friendly PE535. The PE800 does offer greater capabilities, but the PE535 excels for starter needs.
Pros and Cons of the Brother PE535 Embroidery Machine
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Very affordable price point | Maximum 4″ x 4″ hoop size |
| Extremely easy to learn and use | Embroidery only – no sewing stitches |
| Convenient built-in features | Limited built-in design library |
| Produces high-quality embroidery | Sold primarily online, may lack local support |
| Very popular with great reviews | |
| Holds resale value very well |
Conclusion and Recommendation
The Brother PE535 embroidery machine is an excellent starter machine for beginner embroiderers given its affordable price, ease of use, and excellent value. The main limitations to consider are the 4″ x 4″ maximum hoop size and the lack of sewing capabilities. But for small embroidery projects, the PE535 delivers beautiful results.
The convenient built-in features, LCD touchscreen, and abundance of online tutorials make this embroidery machine very user-friendly even for someone who has never embroidered before. While it lacks some of the sophistication and larger capacity of more advanced models, the Brother PE535 is very unlikely to leave a beginner feeling disappointed.
For crafters, DIYers, and anyone seeking to explore machine embroidery on a budget, the PE535 will provide the features you need to create stunning designs without overspending. Given the stellar reviews and ratings from other buyers, it’s easy to recommend the Brother PE535 as a top entry-level embroidery machine.
Where to Buy the Brother PE535 Embroidery Machine
The Brother PE535 is primarily sold online through major retailers like Amazon, Walmart, and specialty stores like Sewing Machines Plus. Here are some purchasing options to consider:
- Amazon – Free shipping with Amazon Prime
- Walmart – Free 2-day shipping on orders $35+
- Sewing Machines Plus – Includes free shipping, packages, and 90-day guarantee
I recommend checking for any available coupon codes and comparing prices between retailers. Make sure to factor in things like free shipping thresholds and estimated delivery dates.
Some other models to consider in the same category include:
- Brother PE550D – Same as PE535 but with Disney designs
- Janome MC230E – Very similar but offers 5″ x 7″ hoop
- Brother PE800 – Next model up, with 5″ x 7″ hoop
Accessories and Supplies for the Brother PE535
Here are some recommended accessories and supplies to go with your new Brother PE535 embroidery machine:
- Embroidery thread – Use high-quality embroidery thread for best results. Popular brands include Sulky, Robison-Anton, and Coats & Clark.
- Stabilizer – Stabilizer keeps fabric taut under embroidery stitches. Options like Heat-Away Ultra and Wash-Away Wonder work well.
- Embroidery needles – Use appropriate needle sizes like 75/11 for most projects. Brands like Organ and Schmetz offer embroidery needle variety packs.
- Embroidery hoops – The included 4″ x 4″ hoop will meet most needs, but you can add a variety pack like this 4-size set from Darice for versatility.
- Bobbin thread – Polyester bobbin thread like Masterpiece by Superior works smoothly. Make sure to use the recommended bobbin style for your machine.
- Embroidery designs – Expand your design library with sites like iBroidery.com which offers sets compatible with Brother machines.
Investing in quality accessories and supplies will help you get the most out of your Brother PE535 embroidery machine and achieve beautiful results!
Frequently Asked Questions About the Brother PE535
Does the Brother PE535 sew as well as embroider?
No, the Brother PE535 is an embroidery-only machine. It cannot sew regular stitches or make buttonholes. You would need a separate sewing machine for constructing projects.
What file formats does the PE535 use for embroidery designs?
The Brother PE535 is only compatible with .PES file formats for embroidery designs. Many design sets include .PES versions, or you can use software to convert files to the .PES format.
What size embroidery hoop comes with the PE535?
The Brother PE535 comes with a 4″ x 4″ embroidery hoop. This hoop size limits the maximum design size to around 3.85″ x 3.85″. You can purchase additional hoops, but the machine will not recognize anything larger than 4″ x 4″.
Can I embroider finished garments or hats?
Yes, you can embroider hats, sleeves, jeans, and more with the PE535 as long as you can fit them in the 4″ x 4″ hoop. You may need specialty hoops for some garments. Always use appropriate stabilizer.
How user-friendly is the touchscreen on this model?
Most reviewers mention the LCD touchscreen is very intuitive. Editing designs is as easy as tapping the screen. The interface uses recognizable icons, so the learning curve is minimal. The screen makes embroidering very enjoyable.
What accessories do I need besides the basics included with purchase?
You will want to stock up on embroidery supplies like thread, stabilizer, bobbins, embroidery needles, and designs. Specialty hoops are popular additions but not essential. Always use high-quality supplies for best results.