Brother ST150HDH Review: A Heavy Duty Computerized Sewing Machine
The Brother ST150HDH is a new heavy duty computerized sewing machine released by the renowned Brother brand. In this Brother ST150HDH review, we’ll examine all the features, specifications, performance, and ease of use of this versatile machine. Whether you are looking to sew thick fabrics like denim or delicate materials like chiffon, read on to see if the ST150HDH is the right heavy duty sewing machine for your needs and budget.
Overview of the Brother ST150HDH Sewing Machine
The Brother ST150HDH is marketed as a “Strong and Tough” sewing machine designed to handle heavy duty projects but also suitable for everyday sewing.
Constructed with a rigid heavy duty metal interior frame, the ST150HDH sewing machine weighs 10 pounds and measures 16.26” x 7.01” x 12.48”. Despite its rugged build, it retains a trim profile that takes up minimal space in your sewing room.
This computerized sewing machine comes with 50 built-in stitches including utility stitches, stretch stitches, heirloom stitches, quilting stitches, decorative stitches and 5 one-step auto-sized buttonhole styles.
Stitch selection and settings are easily controlled through the advanced LCD display screen and a smooth selection dial. With just a turn of the dial, you can choose the stitch you want, with its default settings automatically displayed.
Some standout features of this Brother heavy duty sewing machine include:
- Built-in thread cutter
- 7-point feed dog system
- Drop-in top loading bobbin
- Free arm
- Automatic needle threading
- Twin needle capability
- Variable speed control
Brother ST150HDH Technical Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Weight | 10.14 pounds |
| Dimensions | 16.26” x 7.01” x 12.48” |
| Built-in stitches | 50 |
| Buttonhole styles | 5 one-step auto-sized |
| Included presser feet | 9 |
| Feed dog points | 7 |
| Maximum stitch width | 5mm |
| Maximum stitch length | 4mm |
| Needle positions | Left or center |
| Bobbin type | Top loading drop-in |
| Warranty | 25 years limited |
Now let’s delve deeper into the features and performance of the Brother ST150HDH heavy duty computerized sewing machine in this review.
Heavy Duty Metal Frame Sewing Thick Fabrics
The ST150HDH sewing machine features an internal heavy duty metal frame that provides stability when sewing through multiple layers of thick fabrics. This rigid construction prevents flexing and vibration for smooth sewing.
According to the manufacturer, this machine can sew through up to 6 layers of heavyweight denim. Owners of the Brother ST150HDH praise its stitching power even through materials like canvas and leather. One reviewer mentioned sewing successfully through 4 layers of full grain leather using the provided needles.
However, the ST150HD isn’t limited to just heavy duty projects. It has adequate power and settings to handle lightweight fabrics like silk chiffon as easily as the thick ones.
The ST150HDH also comes included with needles suitable for different fabric weights. You get 2 heavy duty needles for thick fabrics like denim, 2 universal needles for medium weight woven fabrics, and 2 stretch needles for knits.
Using the appropriate size and type needle for your chosen fabric is key to getting the best results. Consult your machine’s manual for Brother’s needle recommendations.
While this computerized sewing machine is designed to be tough, keep in mind it is intended for home use, not industrial manufacturing. Nonetheless, its sturdy construction means the Brother ST150HDH can sew for hours without overheating or losing power even at faster speeds.
User-Friendly Features for Beginners
Despite its heavy duty capabilities, the Brother ST150HDH is beginner-friendly to use right out of the box. Useful highlights like the automatic needle threader, top drop-in bobbin, and LCD display with stitch selection dial make it simple even for novice sewists.
Threading the Machine
The ST150HDH comes with a built-in automatic needle threader controlled by a lever on the side. Lower the presser foot and raise the needle before using it.
While handy, some users have noted the automatic needle threader is made of plastic and could be more durable. You can easily hand thread the needle instead following the numbered guide printed on the machine.
An animated step-by-step video can help first-time users learn to thread the Brother ST150HDH sewing machine properly.
Winding the Bobbin
This heavy duty Brother sewing machine features a convenient top drop-in bobbin system. The oval bobbins are wound on the top of the machine, following the diagram guides.
Once wound, simply drop in the bobbin from the top opening and pull the thread through the slot. The clear Bobbin cover lets you monitor how much thread remains.
Choosing Stitches
The ST150HDH has an intuitive LCD display screen and selection dial for picking stitches, adjusting length/width settings, and more.
Turn the dial to scroll through the built-in stitch options. The number and default settings are displayed on-screen. An accompanying stitch reference chart shows you each stitch type.
Handy markers next to the dial indicate the optimum presser foot for your selected stitch pattern. This takes a lot of guesswork out of sewing for beginners.
Controlling Sewing Speed
This Brother heavy duty sewing machine allows speed control in two ways:
- Use the foot pedal as with most conventional machines
- Adjust the variable speed lever located on the front for steady speed without the foot pedal
The lever allows you to limit the maximum speed for greater control. Many sewists prefer this option when learning as you don’t need to coordinate the foot pedal and fabric handling.
Learn More Tips
For detailed guidance, tips, and basic sewing lessons using the Brother ST150HDH, this video class is an excellent starter resource.
Quilting and Free Motion Sewing
With its sturdy build and generous 6.4” x 4.1” workspace, the Brother ST150HDH performs admirably for quilting projects.
The extended reach inside the machine lets you maneuver bulky quilts for stitching larger pieces. It comes with both a 1/4″ piecing foot and walking foot specifically designed for quilting or sewing through multiple fabric layers.
While this model doesn’t include an extension table, you can purchase one separately if needed. Just keep in mind that the ST150HDH is not as optimized for quilting as some of Brother’s dedicated quilting machines.
For free motion quilting or sewing, this machine allows you to lower the feed dogs. This disengages the fabric feeding system so you can move the material freely in any direction.
Note that the machine doesn’t come with a spring action or darning foot typically used for free motion work. You’d have to invest in a specialty quilting foot to take full advantage of the feed dog drop feature.
Included Accessories and Presser Feet
A versatile selection of 9 different presser feet are packaged with the Brother ST150HDH sewing machine. These allow you to create buttonholes, sew on buttons, insert zippers, and more without having to buy additional accessories.
Here is an overview of each presser foot and its usage:
- Zipper foot – For inserting centered and invisible zippers. The narrow foot allows sewing close to the teeth.
- Buttonhole foot – One-step creation of auto-sized buttonholes for your buttons.
- Button sewing foot – Holds buttons in place as you attach them with zigzag stitching.
- Blind stitch foot – Produces nearly invisible hems and blind stitching.
- Overcasting foot – Works with built-in overcasting stitches to finish seam edges
- Walking foot – Feeds fabric evenly when sewing multiple layers together. Useful for quilting.
- Spring action zigzag foot – An all-purpose presser foot good for basic stitching.
- Monogramming foot – Allows sewing decorative stitches and monograms. Not for embroidery.
- 1/4′′ piecing foot – Maintains accurate 1/4” seam allowances when piecing quilts.
For adding appliques, sewing specialty fabrics like velvet or vinyl, and other advanced techniques, there are optional Brother presser feet you can purchase separately.
Convenience Features for Faster Sewing
Once you understand the basics, the Brother ST150HDH offers capabilities that make your sewing projects go faster and smoother.
Built-in Thread Cutter
This Brother heavy duty sewing machine does not include an automatic thread cutter. However, it does have a small thread cutter built into the side of the machine.
While not as sophisticated as an auto-cutter, the manual cutter lets you cleanly trim threads with a quick snip. You can keep sewing without stopping to look for scissors.
Reverse and Reinforcement Stitches
For securing the stitches at the start and end of seams, the ST150HDH provides easy options:
- Press the reverse button to sew backwards
- Engage the auto-lock feature for automatic reverse/reinforcement stitches
The auto-lock will sew a few reverse stitches when you start sewing and at the end before stopping. This prevents unraveling.
You can turn the auto-lock function on or off as needed with the touch of a button. It eliminates starting and stopping with the foot control.
Needle Up/Down Button
Another useful feature is the independent needle up/down button. Tap the button to move the needle up or down at any point.
Having the needle stop in the down position lets you pivot, turn, or adjust the fabric without shifting it. The needle up position allows moving the material more easily.
Twin Needle Capability
Uncommon at this price point, the Brother ST150HDH allows twin needle sewing for creating two parallel rows of stitching. Switching to the twin needle is fast and the stitches come out perfectly spaced.
Follow the manual to attach the twin needle, snap on the twin needle button, and adjust settings accordingly.
Pros and Cons of the Brother ST150HDH
Pros:
- Constructed of heavy duty metal to handle thick fabrics
- Computerized functionality with 50 built-in stitches
- Extremely easy bobbin winding and threading
- LCD screen and stitch dial is user-friendly
- Variable speed control without foot pedal
- Has multiple included quilting and sewing feet
- Comes with hard protective case
Cons:
- Limited stitch options compared to other computerized machines
- No automatic thread cutting feature
- Onboard stitch reference chart positioning is awkward
- Presser foot pressure cannot be adjusted
While advanced sewists and quilters may want more programming and settings, the Brother ST150HDH hits a sweet spot for beginners. It combines simplicity of operation with the rugged dependability needed for heavy duty projects.
Alternatives to Consider
While we think the Brother ST150HDH is an excellent heavy duty computerized sewing machine, here are two other options to consider for comparison:
Singer Heavy Duty 4411
- More budget-friendly price
- Powerful motor and metal interior frame
- Only basic functionality with no computerization
- Limited to basic stitches and buttonholes
Janome HD5000
- Aluminum body similar to industrial machines
- 18 built-in stitches plus buttonhole
- Easy reverse stitch lever
- Higher price point around $800
Conclusion and Recommendation
The Brother ST150HDH earns its “Strong and Tough” reputation as a computerized heavy duty sewing machine. Intermediate sewists and beginners will find it blends useful functionality with rugged construction.
While stitch options are limited compared to other computerized machines, the 50 built-in stitches cover all the essentials for both utility sewing and decorative work.
We think the ST150HDH is ideal for sewists who want more power and durability than a regular home machine without breaking the bank. The combination of user-friendly operation, thoughtful features, and Brother’s brand reputation make this a machine worth considering.