Brother SE600 Review: Everything You Need To Know About This Combination Sewing And Embroidery Machine

The Brother SE600 is one of the most popular computerized sewing and embroidery machines that Brother offers. This versatile combination machine allows you to not only sew a variety of projects but also embroider designs up to 4″ x 4″.

With 80 built-in embroidery designs, 103 sewing stitches, a large color LCD touchscreen and ample editing capabilities, the SE600 makes it easy to bring your creative projects to life. It’s feature-rich yet beginner-friendly, striking a balance between an entry-level and advanced embroidery machine.

But is the SE600 worth the investment? Does it live up to its reputation? This detailed Brother SE600 review will provide insights into all its features, performance, ease of use and accessories. Read on to find out if this computerized combo machine is a good fit for your needs!

Overview of the Brother SE600 Sewing and Embroidery Machine

The Brother SE600 is a sewing and embroidery machine that allows you to not only sew garments and quilts but also embroider monograms, motifs and lettering directly onto fabrics.

Unlike dedicated sewing machines or embroidery-only models, it combines both functionalities in one compact machine. So you don’t need separate units for basic sewing tasks and embellishing projects with embroidery.

This computerized machine comes pre-loaded with 80 unique embroidery designs ranging from floral motifs to seasonal patterns. You also get 138 built-in sewing stitches for utility sewing, quilting, heirloom stitching and decorative work.

The SE600 has a maximum embroidery field of 4″ x 4″ which is adequate for most projects. It allows you to import and edit designs via the USB port as well. Other highlights include a color LCD touchscreen display, automatic needle threader and easy bobbin winding system.

With versatile capabilities, ample design options and convenient features, the Brother SE600 is a great value-for-money buy for intermediate sewists venturing into machine embroidery. Keep reading this review to find out more about its features and performance.

Technical Specifications of the Brother SE600 Sewing and Embroidery Machine

Before diving into the features and capabilities of the SE600, let’s look at the key technical specifications of this computerized sewing and embroidery machine:

Specification	Details
Machine Type	Computerized Sewing and Embroidery Machine
Built-In Embroidery Designs	80
Built-In Sewing Stitches	138
Automatic Needle Threader	Yes
Embroidery Field Size	4″ x 4″
Sewing Speed	850 SPM
Embroidery Speed	400 SPM
LCD Display	3.2″ Color Touchscreen
Connectivity	USB Port
Work Light	LED
Warranty	25 years limited
Weight	26 lbs
Dimensions	21.2″ x 15.5″ x 16.5″

Key Features and Benefits of the Brother SE600

Here are some of the noteworthy features that make the Brother SE600 a versatile pick for both, sewing and 4″ x 4″ embroidery projects:

Combination Sewing and Embroidery Machine

Unlike most embroidery-only units, the SE600 allows you to sew Utility and decorative stitches in addition to embroidering monograms and motifs. So you get two machines in one!

You can use it for sewing garments, making alterations, crafting home décor items, quilting and then switch to embroidery mode for personalizing projects. This dual functionality makes it a value-for-money buy.

![Brother SE600 being used as a sewing machine]

The Brother SE600 allows you to sew and embroider using a single machine (Image source: Brother)

138 Built-in Sewing Stitches

This computerized sewing machine comes with 138 built-in stitch patterns including:

Utility stitches – for seams, hems, blind hems, buttonholes
Stretch stitches – for knit and athletic wear
Quilting stitches – for piecing quilts and free-motion work
Decorative stitches – for appliqués, satin stitching, heirloom sewing

Such an extensive stitch library allows you to tackle most sewing projects without being limited by stitch options.

![range of sewing stitches on the Brother SE600]

The Brother SE600 offers 138 built-in sewing stitches for utility and decorative sewing (Image source: Brother)

80 Embroidery Designs and 6 Fonts

The SE600 comes pre-loaded with 80 unique embroidery designs including floral motifs, seasonal patterns, kids’ designs etc.

You also get 6 built-in fonts – Calgary, Greek Block, Istanbul and others in different sizes. Use them for monogramming towels, clothing labels, quilts and any other projects.

Having pre-loaded designs allows you to start embroidering instantly without relying on imported patterns.

![built-in embroidery designs on the Brother SE600]

80 built-in embroidery designs are available on the Brother SE600 (Image source: Brother)

Maximum Embroidery Area of 4″ x 4″

The included 4″ x 4″ embroidery hoop allows you to stitch motifs and monograms of up to 4″ in size. This is adequate for most home and hobby projects.

While this hoop size may seem limiting compared to larger 5″ x 7″ and 6″ x 10″ hoops, it’s sufficient for adding monograms to shirts, towels, handkerchiefs, quilts etc.

You can even stitch out designs larger than 4″ x 4″ by re-hooping the fabric. The SE600 provides on-screen guidelines for accurately aligning such multi-hoop projects.

![4 x4 embroidery hoop on Brother SE600]

The included 4″ x 4″ hoop allows you to embroider designs up to 4″ in size (Image source: Brother)

Easy Design Customization

The Brother SE600 allows you to not only customize the built-in designs but also edit imported patterns. You can:

Resize designs up to 20% larger or 10% smaller
Rotate designs in 1-degree increments
Rearrange embroidery pattern elements
Add lettering and align it on arcs or straight lines
Change individual thread colors
Repeat embroidery patterns and combine designs

Such editing capabilities allow you to personalize projects exactly the way you envision them.

![customizing embroidery designs on the Brother SE600]

Editing features of the SE600 allow easy design customization (Image source: Brother)

Large 3.2″ LCD Color Touchscreen

The Brother SE600 features a backlit 3.2″ LCD color touchscreen display. The reasonably sized interactive screen allows you to:

View on-screen tutorials for operating the machine
Select and edit sewing stitches and embroidery designs
Adjust and preview designs in full-color before stitching them out
Change sewing settings like stitch length/width, mirror imaging etc.

The color display makes it easier to visualize your creative projects and preview the final result.

![LCD touchscreen display on the Brother SE600]

Large backlit LCD color touchscreen for easy operation (Image source: Brother)

Automatic Needle Threader

Nobody likes manually threading the tiny eye of the needle! The SE600 comes with an advanced automatic needle threader that pushes the thread through the needle with the press of a lever.

This convenient feature saves time and prevents eye strain, especially when dealing with multiple thread changes during embroidery.

![automatic needle threader on the Brother SE600]

The automatic needle threading system makes setting up the machine easy (Image source: Brother)

Effortless Bobbin Winding and Installation

This computerized sewing and embroidery machine uses a drop-in jam-resistant bobbin system that’s easy to load. The clear cover makes it convenient to monitor bobbin thread supply too.

There are diagrammed instructions on the machine to guide you through quick bobbin winding and installation. The automatic bobbin thread pick-up allows you to start sewing immediately without manual intervention.

Such thoughtful features help even beginners set up the machine and maintain it without any hassle.

![bobbin winding on the Brother SE600]

Bobbin winding and installation is easy on this machine (Image source: Brother)

Knee Lifter for Hands-Free Operation

The Brother SE600 comes with an ergonomic knee lifter that allows you to raise/lower the presser foot using your knee. This leaves both hands free to guide the fabric.

Engaging the knee lifter is especially useful while managing quilts and other large projects that are tricky to maneuver. It can also assist with tasks like pivoting fabric and sewing adjustable buttonholes.

![using knee lifter on the Brother SE600]

The knee lifter allows hands-free operation when managing large projects (Image source: Brother)

USB Connectivity for Importing Designs

While the SE600 comes with ample built-in designs, you may want to embroider your own custom patterns too.

The built-in USB port allows you to import designs in .PES format from your computer to the machine.

So you can purchase unique designs online or create them using digitizing software, and easily transfer them to your SE600 via a USB flash drive.

![USB port on the Brother SE600 for design transfer]

Import endless design options using the USB port (Image source: Brother)

Extensive Included Accessories

The Brother SE600 comes with a wide range of sewing accessories that enhance its functionality straight out of the box:

4″ x 4″ embroidery hoop and arm
7 snap-on presser feet for buttonholes, installing zippers, satin stitching etc.
Embroidery foot
Additional bobbins and needle sets
Seam ripper, scissors, screwdrivers
Spool caps and nets
Dust cover

These accessories allow you to start sewing and embroidering a variety of projects without having to buy additional supplies.

![accessories included with the Brother SE600]

Useful accessories are included with this machine (Image source: Brother)

With its combination of sewing, embroidery and convenient features, the Brother SE600 helps bring your creative ideas to life while staying within budget.

Next, let’s look at how it actually performs for everyday sewing and embroidery tasks.

How Well Does the Brother SE600 Perform?

Any sewing and embroidery machine needs to perform well on parameters like stitch quality, ease of use, versatility and durability. Here is an assessment of how the Brother SE600 fares:

Excellent Stitch Quality

This computerized machine delivers consistent, high-quality stitches and embroidery whether sewing lightweight woven fabrics or multiple layers of denim.

The stitches are smooth, even and neat without any looping or bunching. Embroidered designs also have solid fill stitching and clean defined edges when proper stabilizer and thread are used.

Such great stitch quality makes the SE600 suitable for a wide range of sewing and embroidery projects. The results look professional, not amateurish!

![stitch quality of the Brother SE600]

It delivers smooth, professional stitches and embroidery (Image source: brother-usa.com)

User-Friendly for Beginners

Despite its wide array of features, the Brother SE600 isn’t too overwhelming for beginners. Thoughtful touches like:

Diagrammed threading instructions on the machine body
Step-by-step tutorials accessible on the LCD screen
Easy stitch selection using the touchscreen
Automatic needle threader

make it easy even for someone who’s never embroidered before to learn the ropes without frustration.

The detailed manual provides additional guidance as you acquaint yourself with the machine. There’s also ample support available online to help beginners troubleshoot any issues.

Versatile Capabilities

The combination of sewing and 4″ x 4″ embroidery allows you to create and personalize projects like:

Clothing – shirts, jackets, baby rompers
Accessories – totes, backpacks, hats
Home décor – pillows, placemats, curtains
Quilts – quilt labels, medallion embroidery
Crafts – greeting cards, ornaments, wall-hangings

With a little creativity, you can make almost anything using this versatile sewing and embroidery machine.

![range of projects created with the Brother SE600]

You can create and embellish a wide range of projects (Image source: Brother)

Reliable Performance Over Time

Thanks to Brother’s reputation for quality and the 25 year limited warranty that comes with the SE600, you can expect reliable service from this machine over years of use.

As long as you maintain the machine according to the manual, avoid overworking it, and use the appropriate needle/thread combinations, it should deliver consistent performance.

The sturdy metal frame and quality internal components ensure this computerized sewing and embroidery machine will last you a long time.

Ease of Use of the Brother SE600

Combination sewing/embroidery machines often come with a learning curve. But the thoughtful design and user-friendly interface of the SE600 make it one of the easier models to operate even for beginners. Here’s what makes it accessible:

Easy Setup

Setting up the machine for sewing and embroidery is fairly straightforward:

For sewing – simply thread the needle and bobbin as per the diagrammed instructions. The automatic needle threading eliminates frustration.
For embroidery – attach the included 4″ x 4″ hoop and embroidery arm, select the embroidery foot, and you’re ready to start stitching designs.

The automatic bobbin thread pickup and built-in needle threader minimize the preparation time and effort required.

![setting up the Brother SE600 for embroidery]

Attaching the embroidery arm and hoop takes just minutes (Image source: Brother)

Intuitive Stitch and Design Selection

Choosing sewing stitches or embroidery designs on the SE600 takes just a few taps on the LCD screen.

The machine groups utility and decorative stitches logically so you can find what you need quickly. To select a built-in embroidery design, simply scroll through the on-screen design library.

Everything is accessible on the touchscreen so you don’t have to memorize any number codes. Icons and menu names clearly identify the options.

![Brother SE600 design selection screen]

The intuitive interface allows easy design selection (Image source: Brother)

Convenient Threading System

Thanks to easy access to all thread guides and the automatic needle threader, you don’t have to struggle with threading this machine.

There are numbering prompts guiding you to thread the upper thread correctly. Lower threading is equally simple by following the illustrated instructions.

The thread cutter button instantly cuts both top and bobbin threads, eliminating another repetitive manual step.

Helpful Onscreen Assitance

Don’t want to dig through the instruction manual to resolve an issue? Simply access the troubleshooting and tutorials on the LCD screen itself.

The “?” help key provides on-screen step-by-step instructions for:

Upper threading
Bobbin winding and insertion
Changing the needle or presser foot
Attaching embroidery frames and units

Such instant help at the touch of a button minimizes frustration and downtime if you encounter any problems while operating the machine.

![Brother SE600 onscreen help tutorials]

Onscreen tutorials provide instant assistance as needed (Image source: Brother)

With features like automatic threading, easy stitch selection and onscreen guidance, the user-friendly Brother SE600 can help even beginners achieve professional results without struggle.

Next, let’s look at some of the included accessories and options for expanding the capabilities of this sewing and embroidery machine.

Included Accessories with the Brother SE600

The versaility of any sewing and embroidery machine depends not just on its built-in features but also the accessories included with it. Here are the useful accessories that come along with the SE600:

Presser Feet for Various Techniques

You get 7 snap-on presser feet for achieving specialty sewing techniques like:

Zigzag foot – For applique, lace, general zigzagged stitching
Buttonhole foot – For automatic one-step buttonholes
Zipper foot – For stitching close to zipper teeth
Button-fitting foot – For attaching buttons
Blind hem foot – For invisible hemming
Overcasting foot – To seam and overcast simultaneously
Monogramming foot – For decorative stitching and embroidery

Having multiple presser feet allows you to use the appropriate one for optimal results with each stitching application.

![assortment of presser feet for the Brother SE600]

Specialty presser feet are included for techniques like zip

Here is the continuation of the comprehensive Brother SE600 review blog post:

Embroidery Hoop and Arm

The SE600 comes with a 4″ x 4″ embroidery hoop and arm. The hoop holds the fabric taut within the maximum embroidery area as your design stitches out.

The arm allows the hoop to move freely so the embroidery foot can access the entire hooping area.

While you only get one hoop size, it is sufficient for most home embroidery tasks. Optional larger and smaller hoops are available for purchase separately.

![4 x 4 embroidery hoop for Brother SE600]

The included 4″ x 4″ hoop attaches to the embroidery arm (Image source: Brother)

Assorted Needles and Bobbins

Brother includes a selection of sewing machine needles including 2 each of sizes 75/11, 90/14 and 90/14 ballpoint needles.

The ballpoint needles are ideal for knits, the 75/11 work well with lightweight wovens while 90/14 needles handle medium weight fabrics better.

You also get 4 plastic bobbins so you can have one threaded and ready to go. Having multiple needles and bobbins makes setup for projects easier.

Other Handy Accessories

Some other handy accessories provided with the SE600 include:

Seam ripper
Scissors
Twin needle
Spool caps
Extra spool pin
Screwdrivers
Bobbin clip
Dust cover

These extras help you keep your machine protected, maintained and ready to tackle a variety of fabrics.

With its assortment of included accessories, you don’t need to spend extra to start sewing and embroidering with this machine.

Additional Accessories for the Brother SE600

While the Brother SE600 comes well-equipped straight out of the box, you may want to accessorize it further for enhanced performance. Here are some worthwhile add-ons:

Embroidery Software

To design your own embroidery patterns instead of relying solely on built-in or imported designs, invest in digitizing software like PE-Design Plus or Embird.

You can then create monograms, vector art motifs, lace designs and other rich embroidery elements. Expand your creative capabilities by making your own designs!

![PE-Design embroidery software for use with Brother SE600]

Embroidery software allows you to create your own designs (Image source: Brother)

Larger Hoops

While the included 4″ x 4″ hoop will meet most needs, you can expand the embroidery area with larger hoops like:

5″ x 7″ hoop – For designs up to 5″ x 7″
6″ x 10″ hoop – For designs up to 6″ x 10″
4″ x 6″ reposition hoop – Hoop and reposition fabric to stitch designs larger than 4″ x 4″

Larger hoops allow more creative freedom with embroidery projects.

![using a 5″ x 7″ hoop with the Brother SE600]

Optional larger hoops provide an extended embroidery area (Image source: Brother)

Quilting Feet

To enhance the quilting capabilities of this sewing machine, consider adding:

Walking foot – For evenly feeding layers and preventing shifting
1/4″ foot – For accurate piecing seams
Open toe foot – For better visibility when free-motion quilting

These specialized quilting feet provide better results when working on quilt projects.

![quilting foot options for the Brother SE600]

Quilting feet like this walking foot are worthwhile add-ons (Image source: Brother)

Stabilizers and Hooping Aids

Proper hooping and stabilizing are key to get clean embroidery results. Invest in:

Water-soluble stabilizer – Supports stitching and washes away later
Iron-on stabilizer – Adheres fabric to hoop for a taut hold
Adhesive spray – Alternative to iron-on stabilizers
Hooping clips – Holds fabric taut in the hoop frame

Quality stabilizers and hooping products prevent puckering and distortion.

![assortment of embroidery stabilizers]

Stabilizers support embroidery on fabric to prevent distortion (Image source: Brother)

With creatively selected accessories, you can maximize your sewing and embroidery potential with this versatile Brother machine.

Size and Portability of the SE600

The Brother SE600 has a relatively compact footprint on your sewing table. Here are the key size and portability factors:

Dimensions – Approximately 21.2” length x 15.5” width x 16.5” height
Weight – Around 26 lbs

It’s not the most lightweight machine but reasonably portable to move between rooms or take to classes. Just lift with care to avoid toppling it.

There’s no dedicated carrying case or cover bundled with the machine. You’ll need to purchase one separately if you plan to transport it often.

Consider getting the purpose-built SE600 case by Brother or other third-party options for safe portability.

![Brother SE600 in a carrying case]

Invest in a carrying case for safe portability (Image source: Brother)

Despite offering both sewing and embroidery capabilities, the SE600 doesn’t take up too much space. Just allow sufficient table space for the machine itself and fabric work area around it.

Cost and Warranty of the Brother SE600

The manufacturer’s suggested retail price of the Brother SE600 is $699.99, but it is easily available for under $500 if you shop around.

For a combination sewing and 4″ x 4″ embroidery machine, this is an excellent value-for-money proposition. You get features seen in far more expensive machines at a budget-friendly price point.

Brother also provides a 25 year limited warranty which covers manufacturer defects. Maintain your machine well to qualify for the warranty.

Overall, the SE600 delivers significant bang for buck, being feature-rich without the prohibitive price tag.

Who is the Brother SE600 Best Suited For?

With its user-friendly design yet expansive capabilities, the Brother SE600 suits a range of crafters:

Intermediate Sewists

Beyond absolute beginners, this versatile machine with sewing, quilting and embroidery functions is ideal for intermediate sewists looking to expand their skills.

The SE600 lets you explore new techniques like machine embroidery and experiment with decorative stitches while still meeting everyday garment sewing needs.

Quilting Enthusiasts

Quilters who want to embellish their projects with details like embroidery, satin stitches and applique will find this 4-in-1 machine handy.

The built-in quilting stitches, knee lifter and extended workspace provide a lot of support for quilting.

Crafters and DIYers

If you like to craft home decor items, accessories, gifts and more, the Brother SE600 allows you to get creative with sew and embroidery projects.

Personalize your handmade products and experiment with a world of decorative touches.

Aspiring Entrepreneurs

Thanks to its combination of sewing, monogramming and embroidery, this machine enables sewists to start a small home-based business.

Offer customized clothing labels, unique accessories, embroidered gifts and more designed on your SE600.

With the Brother SE600, intermediate sewists and crafters at all skill levels can explore both, utility sewing and creative embroidery in a singular affordable machine.

How Does the Brother SE600 Compare to Similar Models?

The SE600 has a few sibling models in Brother’s line-up that are quite comparable. Here’s a quick look at how it stacks up against them:

Brother SE600 vs. SE400

The SE600 is an upgraded version of the popular SE400 model
Key upgrades are larger 3.2” color LCD (vs 3.2″ mono LCD), additional built-in designs, USB for design transfer (vs only CD)
Maximum embroidery area and weight is same on both machines

Brother SE600 vs. SE625

Nearly identical except SE625 has 125 embroidery designs vs 80 on SE600
All other specifications like stitches, hoop size, editing capabilities and accessories are the same
SE600 represents better value for money for most users

Brother SE600 vs. SE1900

SE1900 is a higher priced machine with larger 5″ x 7″ maximum embroidery field and 138 built-in designs
More editing capabilities and built-in stitches on SE1900
SE600 has smaller hoop but significant cost savings

Brother SE600 vs. PE800

PE800 is embroidery-only while SE600 offers both sewing and embroidery
Maximum embroidery hoop is 5″ x 7″ on PE800 vs 4″ x 4″ on SE600
PE800 lacks sewing functionality present on SE600
SE600 enjoys cost advantage over the embroidery-only PE800

The SE600 hits a sweet spot between features and affordability compared to both cheaper and pricier Brother models.

Pros of the Brother SE600 Sewing and Embroidery Machine

After reviewing all its features and capabilities, here are the top advantages of the Brother SE600:

Combination machine – Provides both sewing and 4″ x 4″ embroidery
User-friendly for beginners – Onscreen tutorials, easy threading and bobbin loading
Affordable pricing – Feature-packed machine at budget-friendly price point
Good selection of built-in designs – 80 motifs and 6 lettering fonts
Ample editing features – Resize, rotate, color editing, design combining etc.
USB port for design transfer – Use your own patterns for unlimited creativity
LCD touchscreen – Makes operation intuitive
Automatic needle threading – Saves frustration and eye strain
Reliable performance – Professional results and longevity from a reputable brand

For intermediate sewists starting out with embroidery, the SE600 really hits the sweet spot in terms of value.

Cons of the Brother SE600 Sewing and Embroidery Machine

The SE600 may fall short in some areas depending on user requirements:

Small 4″ x 4″ hoop size – Not suitable for large or frequent projects requiring bigger embroidery fields
Limited editing capabilities – Cannot edit individual stitches or add trims
No carrying case provided – Must be purchased separately if frequent transport is planned
Not meant for heavy-duty use – Light/medium projects only

For most home crafters and hobbyists however, these limitations pose no real concern when weighed against the many merits of this user-friendly combo machine.

Conclusion – A Versatile Performer That Delivers

The Brother SE600 manages to pack in a wide range of sewing, embroidery and convenient features at a reasonable price point.

It performs admirably whether you want to sew garments, add decorative touches, personalize projects or tackle a new quilting pattern. Ease of use also makes it accessible for beginners.

While the 4″ x 4″ hoop size limits large-scale embroidery, it is sufficient for average hobby needs. And you must applaud Brother for not skimping on the features despite creating an affordable jack-of-all-trades machine.

In conclusion, the Brother SE600 deserves its reputation as a versatile sewing and embroidery machine loved by intermediate sewists. It certainly delivers impressive bang for buck.

So if you’re seeking an introduction to machine embroidery alongside general sewing capabilities, put this reliable all-rounder on your shortlist!