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Baby Lock Audrey Review (2023 Update)
Note from the Editor: This Baby Lock Audrey review was originally written in 2014, and has been revised and updated in 2023. We have added alternatives such as Brother CS7000X, Brother CP100X, and Brother CP60X.
While visiting Cynthia’s Fine Fabrics in Tamarac, Florida, I had an opportunity to review the Audrey, an electronic sewing machine by Baby Lock. The Audrey is part of the line of basic sewing machines from Baby Lock that includes a collection of about a dozen machines bearing the names of females that make up the Baby Lock A Line.
The Baby Lock Audrey is an excellent choice for the person who is learning to sew because of its simplicity of design and its ease of operation and I will elaborate on that in my review.
Baby Lock Audrey Overview
The Baby Lock Audrey is a computerized sewing machine that is easy to use and has a variety of features. It has 66 built-in stitching options, a 4x4 inch sewing field, a built-in needle threader, a bobbin winder, and a free arm. It is a good choice for beginners and hobbyists who are looking for an sewing machine that they can use to create a variety of projects. It has a variety of features. The machine has a built-in needle threader, a bobbin winder, and a free arm, which can make it easier to use. The machine has a simple interface and comes with a number of instructional materials to help you get started. The Baby Lock Audrey is a relatively affordable embroidery machine, making it a good option for beginners who are on a budget. If you are a beginner looking for an sewing machine that is easy to use and has a variety of features, the Baby Lock Audrey is a good option to consider.
The Baby Lock Audrey BL67 has the trademark A-Line logo that is found on all of the machines in the A-Line series along with red accents as well as the Baby Lock Logo on the right front of the machine.
It also has a bright LCD screen that displays the stitch numbers along with several convenient push buttons that allow the user to select the utility stitch choices, to sew at a slower speed, a start/stop button, reverse stitch, and to program the needle to stop in the up or down position.
On either side of the LCD screen are vertical rows of green lights that indicate the stitch length and width settings.
The selection guide, identifying the decorative stitches is located directly beneath the utility stitch buttons.
There is also an on board accessory storage space that when removed, reveals a convenient free arm, and a drop in bobbin that makes it for the user to determine how much thread is available and a seam guide on the needle plate.
I was actually a little bit impressed when I saw that when the accessory case was removed, the free arm sat upon metal legs, not the customary plastic material that is found on so many other sewing machines on the market these days.
What are some alternatives for Baby Lock Audrey?
Baby Lock Audrey is a fairly well-acclaimed sewing machine and I have explained that in my review. However, if you browse the internet, you will see that it is a little difficult to find online. Here are some alternatives that you can try out.
Introducing the sleek and powerful Brother CS7000X Computerized Sewing and Quilting Machine in a dazzling shade of white! Crafted with a sturdy metal frame, this 14-pound powerhouse is designed to effortlessly handle any project you throw at it.
Imagine a world of endless possibilities with 70 built-in stitches that cover everything from utility to decorative, heirloom to quilting, and seven one-step auto-size buttonholes for flawless closures every single time. Tired of fumbling with threads? Say hello to the hassle-free automatic needle threader and top bobbins that never jam!
But wait, there's more! The CS7000X offers an expansive needle-to-arm workspace, making those grand quilting dreams a reality. And don't forget the bonus goodies—a wide table, 10 sewing feet, and a quilt guide—all in the box, ready to fuel your creative fire.
Heading to a sewing class or on a crafting adventure? No problem! This beauty comes with a protective hard case, ensuring your machine stays as pristine as your stitches.
With its fixed needle bar for pinpoint accuracy and a modern design that screams "creativity at its best," the Brother CS7000X is more than a sewing machine; it's your sewing soulmate. Order now and redefine your craft!
- Fantastic for novices
- Simple to use
- Light-weight and transportable
- Includes a wide table
- Unsuitable for heavy materials or free-motion quilting
- Problems with needle placement can occur
- Restricted functionality for knowledgeable users
The Brother CP100X is a computerized sewing machine designed for both beginners and experienced sewers. It features 100 built-in stitches, including eight styles of one-step buttonholes, and a bright LCD display that shows stitch information and allows you to easily select and adjust your stitches. The machine also includes an automatic needle threading system, which makes threading the needle effortless, and a drop feed for free-motion quilting. The CP100X comes with a variety of convenient features, such as a start/stop button for sewing without a foot pedal, a speed control slider, and a built-in thread cutter. It also includes a range of sewing feet, including a quilting foot, monogramming foot, and zipper foot, among others, to help you tackle a range of sewing tasks. Additionally, the machine includes an extra-wide table for larger projects, a bright LED work area, and a jam-resistant Quick-Set drop-in top bobbin. The CP100X is lightweight and portable, making it easy to take to sewing classes or move around the house. It also includes a hard protective case for storage and transport. Overall, the Brother CP100X is a versatile and reliable machine that offers a range of features to help you complete a variety of sewing projects with ease.
What are the features on Baby Lock Audrey?
- 66 decorative and utility stitch options
- 8 buttonholes
- Drop in bobbin
- On board needle threader
- Free arm
- Push button features:
- Low speed
- Start/stop
- Reverse stitch
- Needle up/down
- Utility stitch selection
- LCD display screen
- Variable speed control
- Adjustable stitch length and width
Working on the Baby Lock Audrey
Threading the Baby Lock Audrey and winding the bobbin are quite easy. All it takes is to follow the easy to understand guides on the top and front of the machine. The utility stitches are selected by pushing buttons. However, it is necessary to use the push buttons beneath the LCD screen to choose among the decorative stitches.
I found the process a bit cumbersome in that when selecting a stitch with a higher numerical assignment, it is necessary to push the buttons up or down many, many times before you arrive at the desired stitch. The good news is when you are ready to go back to a utility stitch, all that is necessary is to push the button assigned to a particular stitch.
The quality of the stitches produced by the Baby Lock Audrey are acceptable, and of good quality, but not really what I would call excellent. It’s one of those things that you can’t really pinpoint, but you know that you have seen better… especially on other Baby Lock machines. Don’t get me wrong; the stitches are secure and tight. They will not come apart on you, nor will they knot up on you. I’ve just seen better quality.
I found that the Baby Lock Audrey is a bit noisy… not so noisy that it is a distraction, but noisy enough to have to turn up the volume on the television or radio if you are one of those people who likes to be entertained while sewing.
Which fabrics work on the Baby Lock Audrey?
| Fabrics that work | Fabrics that don’t work |
|---|---|
| Natural fibers/cotton-linen-wool Fine fabrics/silk-satin-taffeta/velvet Synthetic fabrics/blends-rayon-polyester Knits(Medium to heavyweight only) Denim | Leather/suede Fur Reptile skin Canvas/Twill Plastic/Rubber Extra thick fabrics or multiple layers |
What accessories come with the Baby Lock Audrey?
- 9 Snap-on accessory feet:
- 1/4″ foot
- Free motion/darning foot
- Zipper foot
- Straight stitch foot
- Buttonhole foot
- Zigzag/standard foot
- Blindhem foot
- Open toe foot
- Overcasting foot
- 3 Bobbins
- Extra needles
- Seam ripper
- 2 Spool caps (1 large and 1 small)
- Tote bag
- Extension table with ruler
- Owner’s manual
How to maintain the Baby Lock Audrey?
| Maintenance activities | After each use | Monthly | Once each year | As needed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Clean race hook and feed dogs | Yes | No | No | No |
| Wipe head with soft dry cloth | No | No | No | Yes |
| Wipe head with soft damp cloth | No | No | No | Yes |
| Lubricate | No | No | No | No |
| Service by sewing machine repair professional | No | No | Yes | No |
Baby Lock Audrey Summary
To conclude this review, the Baby Lock Audrey is one of those sewing machines that seems to be well constructed, is lightweight, easy to transport to class, to the dormitory or on vacation. It produces good stitch quality and is fairly easy to operate. Although I have reviewed other machines for beginners that I believe are easier to operate, I am impressed by the workmanship of this machine.
The material used and its solid feel are encouraging in that I believe that with proper care, this sewing machine will last several years. This is a major advantage since we have all encountered machines that work great when they are first removed from the carton, but disappoint after a relatively short time.
I like the way this machine feels when it is being operated. It has a very solid feel. Despite the noise, there is no vibration whatsoever, which is a clear indication to me that this portable, easy to operate sewing machine is well built. The Baby Lock Audrey is not a super-fast machine. Even at its highest speed setting, this machine is slower than most others in its class.
In fact, when the low speed button is engaged, it sews so slowly you are almost tempted to think you could sew more quickly by hand. No doubt this feature is an ideal option for the person who is learning to operate sewing machine – especially a child.
The Baby Lock Audrey is also a very good choice for those experienced home sewers who do not wish to use a fully computerized sewing machine. Believe it or not, with all the wonderful features found on the new crop of computerized sewing and embroidery or quilting machines, there is a significant number of people who prefer the simple basic sewing machine, even though they have been sewing for a very long time.
It is also a good choice for the intermediate home sewer who wants to add a new machine to their sewing room or if they just want to have a machine that they can take along to sewing class, sewing guild meetings or on vacation.
The Baby Lock Audrey is an excellent option for the college student who wants to have a compact, portable sewing machine in the dormitory room.
The Baby Lock Audrey is affordable, easy to operate and at less than 13 pounds, is easy to take along wherever you may want to go. In my opinion, it would be easier to operate if all 66 stitches were accessible with just the touch of a finger, or at least more easily accessible than the present system.
A different stitch selection feature, however, would undoubtedly, result in a higher cost and possibly a heavier machine which would mean a reduction in portability. For the price and the features that you get with this machine just as it is, I must say the Baby Lock Audrey is a good deal… and a sewing machine that I believe anyone who wants a basic sewing machine, regardless of age of skill level, will be very happy with.
The Baby Lock Audrey is sold only through authorized Baby Lock dealers, meaning you have the benefit of personalized customer service. If you are interested in purchasing a Baby Lock Audrey for yourself, for a senior citizen who wants a new sewing machine but is uncomfortable with a sewing machine that has tons of features and hundreds of stitch options, or for a child who is ready to learn to sew, visit a Baby Lock dealer in your local area and ask for a demonstration.
When compared with other machines in its class, the Baby Lock Audrey holds its own quite well and stands on the Baby Lock reputation of fine sewing machines for the home.
Baby Lock Audrey Review
Summary
The Baby Lock Audrey is a computerized sewing machine that is designed for both beginners and experienced sewers. It has 66 built-in stitches, including basic utility stitches, decorative stitches, and quilting stitches. The machine also has a number of features that make it easy to use, such as a needle threader, a top-loading bobbin, a free arm, and a sensor pen. The Baby Lock Audrey also has a built-in embroidery module, which allows you to embroider a variety of designs.
Overall, the Baby Lock Audrey is a computerized sewing and embroidery machine that is designed for both beginners and experienced sewers. It is a good option for those who are looking for a machine with a lot of features and that is easy to use.
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Happy Stitching.
The Audrey is a fine little machine – I picked one up pristine in a pawn shop! Never even opened the manuals – they were sealed in plastic and all parts were also sealed in their bags….This was about three years or four years ago. I use it when I travel and it lives where I always go. 🙂 It is better than the little Singer that looks lots like it – the Audrey is not the same. The one drawback is the harp space, which is really small. But that is not a problem as a travel machine with not much use in terms of larger projects. Thanks for your really nice site!!!!
I was sewing right along with a perfect stitch and then my Audrey. Machine started making basting stitches. Have not been able to get correct stitch length back. Can you help? Thank you
Any ideas on why when you put the machine in reverse and then want to go forward you have to restart the sewing machine before it will do so?
I love my mAudrey Babylock. It is perfect for my classroom, where students as young as three have used it, with a little help. It is portable, convenient and very easy to opereate.