Brother XL-3750 Sewing Machine Review: A Versatile And User-Friendly Machine
The Brother xl-3750 Sewing Machine review is one of the most searched for sewing machine reviews online. And for good reason – the XL-3750 is a feature-rich mechanical sewing machine that promises versatility, ease of use, and affordability. As a trusted brand in sewing for years, Brother offers a quality machine that can handle a wide range of sewing and quilting projects.
Overview of the Brother XL-3750 sewing machine
In this detailed review, we’ll explore the key features and performance of the XL-3750 to help you determine if it’s the right fit for your needs. We’ll cover the pros and cons, who it’s best suited for, and how it compares to similar models. Let’s start by looking at some key specs:
Brother XL-3750 Specs
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Stitches | 35 built-in stitches, 73 stitch functions |
| Stitch Length | Up to 5mm |
| Stitch Width | Up to 7mm |
| Speed | 800 stitches per minute |
| Buttonholer | 1-step auto-size |
| Bobbin | Drop-in top loading |
| Needle Threading | Automatic |
| Presser Feet Included | 7 feet including zipper, buttonhole, button sewing, blind hem, walking, quilting |
| Free Arm | Yes |
| Work Light | Yes |
| Warranty | 25 years limited |
| Weight | 12 pounds |
| Dimensions | 15.4 x 11.4 x 6.7 in |
Overview and Main Features
As a compact mechanical sewing machine, the Brother XL-3750 is designed to be versatile, portable, and easy to use. Here are some of the main features that make it a great choice for beginners and intermediates:
Lightweight and Portable
Weighing just 12 pounds, the XL-3750 is lightweight and can be moved around or transported easily. It comes with a carrying case to protect it from dust and damage. The integrated carry handle makes it convenient to take your machine on the go.
Utility and Decorative Stitches
With 35 built-in stitches and 73 stitch functions, you get a range of options for both utility sewing and decorative details. From a straight stitch for seams to stretch stitches for knits and a buttonhole stitch, all the basics are covered. The XL-3750 also includes heirloom and decorative stitches for embellishing projects.
Quilting Capabilities
The XL-3750 isn’t just for garment sewing – it also caters to quilters with quilting stitches, a wider table, walking foot, and spring action quilting foot. These features help when managing thicker fabrics and wider quilting projects.
User-Friendly Features
Brother packed this sewing machine full of features that make it easy to use, even for beginners:
- Automatic needle threader – Threading the needle is effortless
- Drop-in bobbin – No struggling with bobbin casings, just drop it in
- Automatic bobbin winding – Quickly prepare bobbins without manual winding
- One-step buttonholer – Sew perfect buttonholes with minimal effort
- Stitch width and length adjustment – Customize your stitch settings
- Accessory feet – 7 different presser feet for various techniques
- Instruction manual – A manual is included to help you get started
Smooth Performance
The XL-3750 delivers consistent stitch quality and smooth performance thanks to its 6-point feed dog system. It can sew up to 800 stitches per minute on most fabric types. An integrated light bulb illuminates the sewing area for visibility.
Some of the accessories included with the XL-3750
Ease of Use
Since the Brother XL-3750 is a mechanical sewing machine, operation is more straightforward compared to computerized models. Here are some of the features that make this an easy-to-use machine:
- Quick set up – The XL-3750 can be unpacked and threaded in just minutes using the printed diagrams and instructions.
- Intuitive controls – Stitch selection, width and length are adjusted via simple turn dials.
- Free arm – Sew cuffs, pant legs, and other cylindrical items easily.
- On-board storage – The accessory feet and notions like bobbins can be stored in the convenient free arm compartment.
- Foot control – The pedal provides variable speed control for ease of use.
- Reverse sewing lever – Easily backstitch or reinforce stitches.
- Thread cutter – Quickly trim threads with the built-in cutter.
For those that find threading tricky, the automatic needle threader is a lifesaver. Just slide the thread through the slot, press the lever, and the thread is pushed through the needle. No straining your eyes!
The drop-in bobbin is also much easier to insert compared to old-fashioned bobbin casings. Simply place the wound bobbin in the top loading compartment and you’re ready to sew.
Overall, the XL-3750 doesn’t have a steep learning curve. Even if you’re new to sewing, you can master the basics with this machine. The printed manual provides guidance on how to use the various stitches and troubleshoot issues.
Using the Brother XL-3750 is straightforward for beginners
Who Is It For?
The Brother XL-3750 appeals to a range of sewers thanks to its versatility. Here are some of the users that this mechanical sewing machine is best suited for:
Beginners
For those just learning to sew, the XL-3750 offers a perfect starting point. With automatic features and an easy-to-use interface, beginners won’t feel intimidated. The machine can handle simple projects like hemming, mending, and making curtains or home decor items.
Intermediates
More experienced sewers will appreciate the XL-3750’s decorative stitches, quilting capabilities, and adjustable settings. With practice, you can take on more complex projects like clothing, quilts, and crafts that require more stitch variety.
Quilters
Thanks to the extended quilting table, walking foot, and straight stitch settings, quilters can piece together quilts or manage thicker projects. The XL-3750 allows quilters to finish smaller quilts or take on some aspects of a large quilt.
Occasional Sewers
Those who only sew periodically for mending or alterations will find this machine useful. It’s affordable and doesn’t require a lot of maintenance when not sewing frequently. The XL-3750 can handle a wide range of fabrics and projects as needed.
Travelers
Frequent travelers will like how lightweight and portable this machine is. Just pack it in the included case to bring sewing capabilities anywhere. The XL-3750 doesn’t need special accessories for basic sewing.
The XL-3750 is likely not the best choice for sewing professionals, experienced quilters working on large quilts, or those needing computerized capabilities or embroidery functions. But for most home sewers, it hits the sweet spot of being affordable while still offering versatility.
Stitch Quality and Performance
One of the most important considerations for a sewing machine is how well it performs. Here’s an overview of the stitch quality and capabilities of the Brother XL-3750:
- Good stitch consistency – The XL-3750 produces nice, even stitches on most fabric types from delicate to medium weight fabrics.
- Quiet operation – It runs smoothly without excessive vibration or noise. This is a benefit if sewing late at night or needing to converse while sewing.
- Up to 800 SPM – The top speed of 800 stitches per minute allows you to sew faster on straight stretches. The foot pedal lets you ease off for precise control.
- 6-point feed dogs – The feeding mechanism keeps fabric moving smoothly under the needle.
- Sews lighter fabrics well – Works great for cottons, silks, linens, and stable woven fabrics.
- May struggle with heavy fabrics – Layers of denim or canvas may tax the XL-3750’s abilities. Slowing the speed can help.
- Good for smaller quilting projects – You can piece together smaller quilt tops with precise 1⁄4″ seams.
The XL-3750 should be able to handle most sewing tasks the average home sewer will throw at it. As with any machine, using the right needle and thread for your fabric type will help achieve optimal results. The integrated light bulb illuminates stitching area nicely.
Overall, this Brother sewing machine provides great value for performance. While it may not have the power of pricier heavy duty models, it can manage basic projects on common fabric types with ease.
Example stitches you can make with the Brother XL3750
Alternatives to Consider
The Brother XL-3750 offers excellent value at its price point, but there are comparable alternatives worth looking at:
- Brother XR3774 – Very similar model but with 37 stitches vs 35, 8 included feet, and slightly wider table
- Brother CS6000i – Computerized model with 60 stitches, hard case, and LCD screen
- SINGER Simple 3232 – 32 stitches, metal frame, and 6 included snap-on feet
- Janome 2212 – Basic mechanical model, 12 stitches, free arm, and top loading bobbin
- Juki HZL-LB5100 – Powerful motor, easy bobbin threader, wide table, 100 stitches
The XR3774 costs a little more but adds a few extras. The CS6000i enters computerized territory for about $100 more. The SINGER and Janome offer simpler machines at lower prices. And the Juki is a step up in terms of power and performance.
Consider what features are must-haves and pick within your budget. The XL-3750 hits a nice balance point of price and offerings for many sewers.
Pros and Cons of the Brother XL-3750
Here is a rundown of the biggest pros and cons that tend to come up for the Brother XL-3750 based on customer reviews:
Pros
- Excellent value and feature set for the price
- Lightweight and portable
- User-friendly operation
- One-step buttonhole stitch
- Wide table for quilting
- Good selection of stitches
- Automatic needle threader
- Metal interior frame
- Fast and smooth performance
- Quiet when sewing
Cons
- Limited work area for large projects
- Not suitable for heavy thick fabrics
- Bobbin loading and tension can be tricky
- Instruction manual could be more detailed
- May need servicing or oil after heavy use
- Limited foot pressure adjustments
- No speed control slider
While no machine is perfect, the XL-3750 delivers excellent capabilities considering its affordable price. For home sewers focused on smaller projects, it represents a versatile mechanical machine.
Make sure to condition the machine by oiling it periodically and cleaning lint buildup to maintain performance. Some users report needing tune-ups after a couple of years of heavy use.
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
For intermediate sewers seeking an economical machine with versatility, the Brother XL-3750 is a great choice. It can tackle a wide variety of fabrics and projects ranging from simple garments to smaller quilts.
Key advantages of the XL-3750 include:
- User-friendly automatic features
- Lightweight and portable design
- Variety of utility and decorative stitches
- Good performance for the price
- Ideal for beginners and intermediates
The XL-3750 ranks as one of Brother’s most popular models due to hitting the sweet spot between price and offerings. It’s built to their usual standards of quality and reliability.
While it may not satisfy those needing specialty computerized stitches or a large work area, it suits most home sewing needs. The Brother XL-3750 earns its reputation as a versatile, affordable machine.