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Brother CE5500 PRW Review (2025 update)
Note de l'éditeur : This Brother CE5500 PRW Review was originally written in 2012, revised and updated in 2025. As the CE 5500 PRW is now a discontinued model, we have added alternatives such as, BrotherCS5055, Brother ST150HDH et le Singer9960
If you are as big a fan of Project Runway as this reviewer, you are no doubt wondering how the Brother Project Runway Limited Edition sewing machines actually perform. It is human nature to be a bit skeptical. When we saw the Brother brand name on the sewing machines in the Project Runway workroom, we were only mildly impressed. After all, the contestants on this show are supposed to be expert sewers.
Logically, the things they produce should look perfect. Then we learned that the Brother Project Runway Limited Edition CE5500 PRW was rated the best buy by Consumers’ Digest. Imagine our excitement when a sewing buddy invited us to review a brand new Brother CE5500 PRW. When we arrived, the machine was still in its original carton.
It had been so long since we unpacked a brand new sewing machine that our hearts almost started racing.
Brother CE5500 PRW (Project Runway) – Overview
This Brother CE 550 model is no longer available and has been replaced by the newer CS5055, which is also under Project Runway and is identical in both looks and features to the CE55OO.
The Brother CE5500 is a limited-edition sewing machine that was made for the Project Runway show. The device features some impressive specifications, such as 50 stitching styles, five styles of one-step automatic, buttonholes, an LCD screen, etc., and a lot more. The device is easy to set up, and there is not much that you would need to assemble by yourself. In its brand new configuration, it works nice and smooth without interruptions. You will not be disappointed with the output quality. The device is quite easy to use and gives you an impressive stitching speed as well. Read the detailed review below to learn more about this device.
En un coup d'œil
Everything was carefully protected by Styrofoam and plastic, clearly identifiable. The power cord and foot pedal were the only components that needed to be attached to the machine before going to work. Unlike some machines, the Brother CE5500 PRW was easy to unpack and set up. The power cord is attached to the right side of the machine, next to the power switch. The connector for the foot pedal is located on the rear of the machine. The accessories were nestled in a small pouch inside the detachable work space which, when removed, revealed a functional free arm. The Project Runway decal and logo are prominently displayed on the front panel and are quite possibly the very first things any fan of the popular designers’ competition program notice on this machine.
Caractéristiques
The Brother CE5500 PRW offers users the following standard features:
- 50 built-in stitches
- 5 styles of one-step automatic buttonholes
- 87 different stitch functions
- an easy to read LCD screen
- easy to operate computerized stitch selection
- and a LED brightly lit work area
Newer version of the Brother CE550 PRW
La Brother CS5055PRW est une machine à coudre informatisée dotée d'un écran LCD affichant toutes les fonctions requises. Environ 50 points pratiques, décoratifs et anciens intégrés au CS5055PRW offrent une variété d'alternatives. Avec les points disponibles, vous pouvez créer de superbes chefs-d'œuvre.
Les points extensibles intégrés à cette machine à coudre sont l'une de ses particularités ; vous pouvez coudre du molleton, des élastiques et d’autres tissus flexibles avec. De plus, vous pouvez voir clairement tous vos points grâce à une zone de travail éclairée par LED. Vous disposez également d'un essorage de bobine vertical et d'une boutonnière en cinq étapes, personnalisée et en une étape.
Les caractéristiques fascinantes ci-dessus sont combinées à l’enfilage automatique de l’aiguille, ce qui réduit la fatigue oculaire lors de l’enfilage d’une aiguille. Le sélecteur de point intelligent est visible à l'écran. Dotée d'une poignée en plastique qui facilite les déplacements, cette machine est petite et légère (seulement 15 livres). Vous pouvez transporter votre machine à coudre en classe sans ressentir de douleurs aux bras.
Dans l’ensemble, comme cela a été souligné précédemment, la machine à coudre Brother CS5055PRW est conçue pour les débutants. Il est simple à utiliser et à configurer, ce qui le rend parfait pour les débutants qui ont besoin de se lancer immédiatement.
- Facile à utiliser et à configurer
- Faibles niveaux de bruit
- Tarif moyen et abordable
- Portable et léger
- Possibilité de coudre des matériaux épais et volumineux
- Le chargement de la canette est simple
- Manuel clair et accessible
- Espace de stockage confiné
- Éclairage LED tamisé
- La majorité des pièces de la machine étaient en plastique
- Incapable de supporter l'utilisation exigeante et dure d'utilisateurs qualifiés
The fact that this is the limited edition Project Runway model bloats the price! We recommend buying the CS5055 (non Project Runway) listed below, as it is newer, has more features and way more affordable (less than $200)
The type of sewing machine might have compelled you to think that it would be pricey. But the good news is that this one is under $200. The Brother CS5055 uses a computerized system, making it convenient for both freshers and experts.
You will be amazed to know that it offers 60 built-in stitches for decorative, utility, and heirloom functions. Hence, you can try your hand at adding creative embellishments. Apart from that, this model promises threading without barriers and gives you a drop-in top bobbin that is jam-resistant. So you will be able to sew multiple projects at the same time.
Then, you will also come across a metal frame and a fixed needle bar for perfect stitching. If you want to work on a complicated project, then use the spacious needle-to-arm area. Furthermore, the LCD display allows you to control the sewing. So, none of your projects can go wrong.
- L'écran LCD informatisé en fait une option très conviviale. Vous pouvez ainsi sélectionner les points et les ajuster en conséquence.
- La machine à coudre vous offre une boutonnière en une seule étape, un enfile-aiguille automatique et un bras libre pour les petits projets.
- La machine peut vous décevoir en termes de qualité de boutonnière. Elle peut ne pas être aussi précise que les modèles haut de gamme.
- Le plastique est durable mais perd sa robustesse par rapport aux pièces métalliques.
If you are looking for Budget sewing machines, we recommend reviewing our Best sewing machines for under $200 article
Working on the Brother CE5500 PRW
With owner’s manual in hand, winding the drop in bobbin and threading the Brother CE5500 PRW were literally as easy as 1-2-3. The numbered on board diagrams and guides for winding and inserting the bobbin and for threading the machine were so easy to follow, it was almost unnecessary to even refer to the detailed threading instructions in the owners’ manual.
The manual tension adjustment dial is easy to read and even easier to manipulate. Sewing on the Brother CE5500 PRW is also easy as 1-2-3. The numerical stitch selection process is easy to read and easy to use. Each stitch is clearly numbered. To select a stitch, users need to only press the plus and minus buttons beneath the backlit LCD screen until the selected stitch number appears in the window.
The Brother CE550 PRW can sew up to 1,000 stitches per minute. Some models are equipped with a speed control slider and a start/stop button. This particular machine, however, does not have those features. The speed is controlled solely through the foot pedal. A lumière touch produces a slower speed. The more pressure applied to the foot pedal, the faster the machine will sew.
For this review, we sampled several different stitch options, including one decorative cross stitch design. Sewing on this machine was more than just efficient. It was a downright enjoyable experience. As stated above, winding the bobbin and threading the machine were a breeze. No matter what stitch you chose, you didn’t have to change the tension or needle position to get perfect results.
The Brother CE5500 PRW is fast, quiet and the stitches all came out perfectly. Adjusting the stitch length and width is just as easy. Changing stitch width or length is accomplished by touching plus and minus buttons situated on the right side of the LCD screen. A reverse stitch button is situated above the needle to facilitate locking seams, darning and other sewing tasks. There is a button to facilitate dropping the feed dogs is located on the back side of the free arm.
Changing needles and presser feet could not be easier. Each of the presser feet is designed to snap on and off with ease and the needles are released and tightened with the mere twist of a conveniently located screw. The needle plate is etched with a seam guide that is easy to read. The bright LED light is a wonderful way to help reduce eye strain and eliminate shadows on the work area.
Tissus
Des tissus qui fonctionnent | Des tissus qui ne fonctionnent pas |
---|---|
Fibres naturelles/coton-lin-laine Tissus fins/soie-satin-taffetas/velours Tricots Tissus/mélanges synthétiques-rayonne-polyester | Tissus très épais ou plusieurs couches |
Alternatives to the Brother CE 5500 PRW
As the CE 5500 PRW is now a discontinued model, we have added alternatives such as, Brother ST150HDH et le Singer9960
La Brother ST150HDH s'adresse aux passionnés de couture qui s'attaquent à un large éventail de projets. Bénéficiant d'un large éventail de fonctionnalités, dont 50 points intégrés et un enfilage d'aiguille avancé, il traite sans effort divers tissus, du denim épais aux soies délicates. L'espace de travail étendu de l'aiguille au bras peut accueillir des projets plus volumineux, tandis que les accessoires inclus, tels que 9 pieds de couture et un couvercle de canette transparent, améliorent la polyvalence. Que vous soyez un professionnel chevronné ou un créatif en herbe, cette machine offre un contrôle précis des points, ce qui en fait un compagnon idéal pour un large éventail d'activités de couture.
- Adapté aux débutants
- Durable et durable
- Certains utilisateurs se sont plaints de la qualité de la machine
Polyvalence, fonctionnalités haut de gamme et précision définissent la Singer Quantum Stylist 9960. La machine à coudre obtient la note maximale en termes de 600 points intégrés, qui comprennent des options extensibles, décoratives et de matelassage pour chouchouter votre couturière intérieure. Ensuite, l'appareil est livré avec un enfile-aiguille et un coupe-fil automatique pour vous faire gagner du temps. Vous trouverez même un curseur de contrôle de vitesse conçu pour les professionnels et les débutants. La machine vous surprendra également avec 13 boutonnières entièrement automatiques et une large gamme de pieds-de-biche pour augmenter la valeur afin que vous puissiez coudre divers projets.
- Différentes options de couture
- Écran LCD intuitif et facile à lire
- Permet 850 points par minute avec un moteur robuste
- Vous obtenez une table supplémentaire et des pieds presseurs larges.
- Structure lourde.
- Espace de travail limité pour les projets de quilting massifs.
With 600 built-in stitches, including stretch, decorative, and quilting options, users appreciate its creative potential. The automatic needle threader, thread cutter, and speed control slider are highly valued for their convenience, especially for beginners. The motor itself can handle up to 850 stitches per minute.
However, if you’re focused on larger quilting projects, it may not be ideal because users have stated that it has a heavy structure and limited throat space.
Brother CE 5500 PRW: Accessories
The accessories pouch has all of the most important sewing tools that a home sewer could need. Seven presser feet: two zipper feet, buttonhole foot, button foot, overcasting foot, monogramming foot, and blind stitch foot; two spool spindles, one large and one small; two spool caps; four bobbins; extra needles; one twin needle; seam ripper, lint brush; and a disc shaped screwdriver.
The Brother CE5500 PRW also came with two owner’s manuals, one in English and one in Spanish, and a Quick Reference Guide containing all of the threading and setup instructions for easy reference. The Brother CE5500 PRW two owners’ manuals. We were admittedly a bit disappointed when we discovered that the Brother CE5500 PRW did not come with a dust cover of any type, but that didn’t slow us down one bit. With a machine as easy to operate as this one, the first sewing project could easily be making a dust cover for the Brother CE5500 PRW. Almost anyone could easily modify a purchased tote bag pattern or draft a pattern and whip up a custom made dust cover or carrying case in just one afternoon.
Entretien
Activités d'entretien | Après chaque utilisation | Mensuel | Une fois par an | Comme requis |
---|---|---|---|---|
Nettoyer le crochet de course et nourrir les chiens | Oui | Non | Non | Non |
Essuyez la tête avec un chiffon doux et sec | Non | Non | Non | Oui |
Essuyez la tête avec un chiffon doux et humide | Non | Non | Non | Oui |
Lubrifier | Non | Non | Non | Non |
Service par un professionnel de la réparation de machines à coudre | Non | Non | Oui | Non |
Attacher les détails
Some people will see a sewing machine with the “Project Runway” logo and think that it is more of a gimmick than a reliable sewing machine. This cynicism could not be farther from the truth, as evidenced by the fact that the Brother CP5500 PRW Project Runway Limited Edition was named a best buy by Consumers’ Digest. The prestigious seal of approval is proof positive that this sewing machine is not only a great economical deal, it is a great investment as well. With a price tag of just $100, this reviewer concurs with the people at Consumer’s Digest. The Brother CE5500 PRW is not only the best buy for a machine in its class, it is also the best buy for anyone who is interested in purchasing a functional sewing machine that has all of the features and accessories that one truly needs, and has all of the onboard utility and decorative stitches that one would use under normal conditions. If machine embroidery is your forte, you may not be thrilled with the Brother CE5500 PRW. However, if you are like most home sewers and concentrate primarily on making clothing, accessories, and home décor items, there really isn’t much reason for looking further. One of the things this reviewer likes best about the Brother CE5500 PRW is the fact that it is a machine that can be used by sewers of all ages and skill levels. Someone who is learning the art of sewing can appreciate this machine for its features and ease of operation just as much as a person who has been sewing for decades. This reviewer would not hesitate to recommend this sewing machine for a beginner sewer – especially one who has been inspired to start sewing by the ever popular Project Runway.
The popularity of the long running Project Runway television show has only heightened the public’s interest in sewing at home. The program is inspiring a growing number of teens, young adults and even older people who had never considered sewing in the past to try their hands at making their own clothes. What better way to start than with a sewing machine emblazoned with the logo of the show that fanned their creative flames in the first place?
Even a child in elementary school or an adolescent in middle school would enjoy learning to sew on the Brother CE5500 PRW. The machine is so easy to operate there is no reason for a parent to hesitate in making a $100 investment in stimulating their child’s creative talents. The Brother CE5500 PRW is affordable and very easy to set up. Consumers who want to acquire one of these machines, can get one by visiting amazon.com. While some sewing machines are considered to be too complicated to be purchased on line, this is not the case with the Brother CE5500 PRW. The instructions for set up and operation of this machine are so easy to follow that even a person who never touched a sewing machine before will be able to accomplish the task with no trouble at all. Anyone who buys this machine should also either buy a cover for it or take the time to make one. This will protect their investment from dust and other debris in the environment. To sum it all up, we believe that the Brother CE5500 PRW Project Runway Limited Edition is one of the best sewing machines you can buy.
It is not always about the bells and whistles, but the functionality that makes the difference when it comes to selecting the right sewing machine. If you are new to sewing or use your sewing machine occasionally, this machine is perfect for you. Even if you are one of those people who make all of their clothes and sew for your family and friends, you will find that the Brother CE5500 PRW is a great machine to have in your sewing room.
It is fast, quiet, efficient and economical. It is also highly functional and literally easy enough for a child to use. With all of this to take into consideration, there is every reason in the world to add the Brother CE5500 PRW to your sewing room inventory.
Verdict final
The CE 5500 PRW is a great machine but is now a discontinued model, so we recommend alternatives such as, BrotherCS5055, Brother ST150HDH et le Singer9960
Si vous êtes une couturière avancée, jetez un œil à notre meilleures machines à coudre, meilleurs livres de couture et meilleurs magazines de couture messages et si vous cherchez à obtenir un mécanique, à toute épreuve, piquage ou machine à coudre industrielle, jetez un œil à certains de nos excellents articles. Si vous êtes une couturière débutante, consultez notre meilleurs livres de couture pour débutants, meilleures machines à coudre pour débutants et meilleures machines à coudre sous $200 pour commencer.
Pour les articles liés à la marque, consultez Meilleure Bernette | Meilleur Bernina | Meilleur Brother | Meilleur Husqvarna Viking | Meilleur Janome | Meilleur Juki | Meilleur Singer |
Pour les meilleurs accessoires, vérifiez Meilleures chaises | Meilleures tables | Meilleur papier calque | Meilleures huiles pour machines | Meilleurs ciseaux et cisailles | Meilleurs pieds-de-biche | Meilleures aiguilles | Les meilleurs kits de couture |
Bonne couture.
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Brother CE 5500 PRW Review
Résumé
This Brother CE 550 model is no longer available and has been replaced by the newer CS5055, which is also under Project Runway and is identical in both looks and features to the CE55OO. We recommend buying the Brother CS 5055 – It is a simple computerized machine with an LCD screen that has the analog functions of mechanical sewing machines programmed into it. It has 60 built-in stitches, which is quite impressive.
Si vous êtes une couturière avancée, jetez un œil à notre meilleures machines à coudre, meilleurs livres de couture et meilleurs magazines de couture messages et si vous cherchez à obtenir un mécanique, à toute épreuve, piquage ou machine à coudre industrielle, jetez un œil à certains de nos excellents articles. Si vous êtes une couturière débutante, consultez notre meilleurs livres de couture pour débutants, meilleures machines à coudre pour débutants et meilleures machines à coudre sous $200 pour commencer.
Pour les articles liés à la marque, consultez Meilleure Bernette | Meilleur Bernina | Meilleur Brother | Meilleur Husqvarna Viking | Meilleur Janome | Meilleur Juki | Meilleur Singer |
Pour les meilleurs accessoires, vérifiez Meilleures chaises | Meilleures tables | Meilleur papier calque | Meilleures huiles pour machines | Meilleurs ciseaux et cisailles | Meilleurs pieds-de-biche | Meilleures aiguilles | Les meilleurs kits de couture |
Bonne couture.
In my opinion, The Brother CE5500 PRW is not easy to use…I think is a sewing machine for Intermediate.
My machine is not showing display as we have 220 volts. i am now using 120 volt converter. please kindly guide me how should i start my machine.
I have owned 2 of these I n the last 60 days. First one started going really slow and then gaining speed…but each time you stopped would start out real slow again. Then stopped going in reverse. So I exchanged it for the same model…..within 30 days started doing the same thing so I returned it and just went with a singer since I have never had issues with them. Horrible experience with brother on 2 machines in less then 2 months.
Well I have one, an I have not had any problems with my machine, works beautifully… Maybe you just had to that just didn’t work for, you may have been able to get it repaired… I don’t know, but mine works….
Dames -
I regret that you have had such difficulties with your machines. When I reviewed this machine, it was literally ‘right out of the box’ and worked great. The person who owns it purchased it at a big box store. I have often warned people about buying sewing machines at outlets such as this. The Brother CE5500PR is a perfect example of why they call sewing machines sold at stores like Walmart ‘throw aways’. They work great for a little while and then shut down on you.
Since doing this review more than 2 years ago, I have stopped reviewing machines that are sold at stores like Walmart, Kmart, etc. In their defense, these machines have a purpose in that they put sewing machines within reach of people who cannot or do not wish to spend several hundred dollars. The obvious downside is they will not last. The more you use them, the shorter the lifespan.
If cost is a an issue when shopping for a sewing machine, your best bet is to purchase a refurbished machine from an authorized independent dealer or from a dealer that specializes in servicing and selling vintage machines.
Bonne couture.
Love this machine. One question, should I take the styrofoam out of the lid?
Hello, Stella –
Merci d'avoir visité Sewing Insight.
By all means, it is safe to remove the styrofoam. Be aware, however, that you might notice an increase in the noise level. Sometimes styrofoam is used to muffle sound. I cannot say that this is the case here, however. If this does happen, you can always put the styrofoam back in place.
Bonne couture.
Couldn’t agree more with this review! I purchased two Brother CE 5500 PRW for my daughters ages 10 and 7 and they love it! It is extremely easy to use. Couldn’t have asked for a better machine for both of my girls who are just learning to sew and at such a great price!
I LOVE LOVE LOVE this machine. the ease of use and the functions of this machine rival my Husqvarna. The Button function is amazing. Winding the bobbin is a breeze. I bought this machine when they first came out years and years ago from Walmart of all places and it has lasted me all this time with zero problems. I do have my machine serviced once a year and this guy gets used A LOT.
Salut,
I’m thinking about buying this machine and I have a couple questions based on your fabrics chart and the pro/con chart.
1 – did you not test the thicker/multiple layer fabrics? Do you think it would do fun-fur (for the occasional hallowe’en costume)?
2 – manual tension: does your chart mean that it is a con because you have to manually adjust the tension? Or do you mean that there is no tension adjustment feature?
Merci!
Erin
I love my machine, I have not had any problems with my machine, I’m sorry that you have been having a hard time with your machines… I just love ❤️ ❤️ love my machine…