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Brother Innov-is Laura Ashley Isodore 5000 Review (2023 Update)
Note from the Editor: This Brother Innov-is Laura Ashley Isodore 5000 Review was originally written in 2014, and has been revised and updated in 2023. This was a limited edition launch and is now discontinued. We have added similar alternatives such as Janome Memory Craft Horizon 8200 QCP, Janome 4120QDC, and Juki HZL-F600 .
While visiting friends at Ace Sewing and Vacuum in Pompano Beach, Florida, I came across the Brother Innov-is Laura Ashley Isodore 5000, which I have reviewed here today. I understand this is the very first true embroidery machine in the Laura Ashley line.
Brother Innov-is Laura Ashley Isodore 5000 Overview
The Brother Innov-is Laura Ashley Isodore is a computerized sewing machine that is designed to provide high-quality stitching for a variety of sewing projects. It comes with 185 built-in stitches, including utility stitches, decorative stitches, and quilting stitches, as well as 55 alphanumeric stitches for personalizing projects.
The machine has a large, backlit LCD screen for selecting and editing stitches, and it also has a built-in memory for saving customized stitch settings. The Brother Innov-is Laura Ashley Isodore has an automatic needle threader and a quick-set bobbin system for easy and convenient threading. Additionally, the machine has a variety of advanced features, such as a start/stop button, a speed control slider, and a built-in thread cutter. These features make it easy to sew complex projects with precision and ease, whether you're a beginner or an experienced sewer.
This is a limited edition model and is no longer available. We recommend trying out other alternatives we have added to this post.
Aside from the pink accent color which always grabs my attention, the first thing I noticed about the Brother Innov-is Laura Ashley Isodore 5000 is the large work space.
Even with the embroidery unit removed, this machine has an extremely large bed. I could easily see how large sewing and quilting jobs can be completed on this machine with little or no difficultly fitting your work in the space between the needle and column.
One of my favorite features on this machine is the placement of the drop feed. Rather than hiding it someplace behind the accessory case or on back of the machine, the drop feed control is right up front where you can get to it easily and quickly.
There is also a large full color LCD touch screen and stylus as well as a touch pad above the needle that controls all the key functions… start/stop; reverse stitch; needle up/down; thread cutting; presser foot up/down; speed control slider and automatic needle threading.
I had to ask about the clear plastic window above the needle, and learned that it was a troubleshooting feature. Apparently, earlier models had a problem with the automatic needle threading mechanism and the window was added to aid in the process.
The see through bobbin cover is a major plus along with the needle plate which has seam guides in both inches and metric measurements.
What are the features on Brother Innov-is Laura Ashley Isodore 5000?
Basic Features :
- 531 decorative, utility, quilting and embroidery stitch options including:
- 416 built-in embroidery designs including 50 Laura Ashley European floral designs
- 44 embroidery designs on CD
- 17 embroidery lettering fonts
- 3 sewing lettering fonts
- Sew with embroidery unit attached
- Full color LCD touch screen 3.1″ x 8.3″
- Adjustable screen brightness settings
- Touch panel stitch selection
- Screen saver
- On-screen assistance
- On-screen editing
- Rotate, mirror image, enlarge/reduce, letter spacing, thread density
- 5 Bright on board LED lights
- Automatic Needle Threader
- Automatic Tension adjustment
- Adjustable Bobbin Winding Speed
- Upper and lower Thread Sensors
- Automatic Thread Cutter
- Twin needle selection key
- Quick Set™ Bobbin
- Built-in Memory
- Updatable software
- Mouse Capability by USB
- Media Type Several Media via USB, Embroidery Card (via Card Reader)
- 15 One step buttonholes – 15 One-step
- 1 Four-step buttonhole
- My Custom Stitch™ Feature
- Drop feed
- Side feeding
- Start/stop button
- Speed control slider
- Needle position key (up/down)
- Automatic height adjuster™ aha® feature
- Presser foot pressure adjustment
- Free arm
- Needle up/down
Sewing Features :
- Work Space 4.5″ x 8.2″
- Sew up to 1,000 stitches per minute
- Knee Lift
- Presser Foot Leveling
- Automatic Presser Foot Lifter
- Pivot Function
- Drop Feed
Embroidery Features :
- Maximum embroidery area – 7″ x 12″
- Embroidery speed – 350 to 1000 stitches per minute
- 17 built-in alphanumeric fonts, including Cyrillic
- Built-in frame designs – 10 shapes/12 stitch patterns
- Thread wiper
- Resume function
- Trial position/layout function
- Built-in border function & designs
- Applique creator function
- Curving text on screen editing
- Space reduction on embroidery alphanumeric fonts
- Pattern rotating – 1, 10, or 90 degrees
- Drag and Drop Editing
- My Custom Design™ Feature (On CD)
- Print and Stitch™ Technology
- Compatible with all Brother Embroidery Software
- Software upgrades
Working on the Brother Innov-is Laura Ashley Isodore 5000
I really like the way you get warnings to move your hands out of the way when you first turn the machine on. There is a warning telling you the embroidery unit is attached and another one to alert you when the unit is about to move.
When you shift from embroidery to sewing mode, you get another warning telling you to change the presser foot. Threading the Brother Innov-is Laura Ashley Isodore 5000 and winding the bobbin are quite simple.
The on board threading guide make the process so easy, I daresay a beginner could easily master this task with very little hands on assistance.
Even though there is no on board stitch selection guide, the stitch selection process was fun in a way… that is if you have the time to scroll through all the stitch options in order to choose the one you want.
The first thing you must do is select your stitch category from one of the blue buttons at the lower edge of the touch screen. They is one for utility stitches, two for decorative stitches including buttonholes and one for alphanumeric fonts.
After selecting the stitch category, images of the stitches appear on the screen. The stylus is then used to select the desired stitch.
The quality of the stitches produced by the Brother Innov-is Laura Ashley Isodore 5000 are acceptable, but the straight stitches are not as well defined as I think they should be.
In addition, it is necessary to manipulate the stitch length and width in order to achieve proper density on some of the decorative stitches.
The Brother Innov-is Laura Ashley Isodore 5000 is quiet and there is no vibration – a definite advantage, especially if you are going to be working on it for long stretches of time.
What are some alternatives for Brother Innov-is Laura Ashley Isodore 5000?
We have noted in this post that the Brother Innov-is Laura Ashley Isodore 5000 is a discontinued product. Here are some alternatives we recommend instead.
The Janome Horizon Memory Craft 8200 has all the functions and extras you could possibly need for quilting. The enormous 11" to the right of your needle is included on the Janome Memory Craft 8200. You will be able to quilt a large quilt easily in this area. There is a knee lift included with the Janome Memory Craft 8200 QCP. Your presser foot will simply rise up with a quick push to the right with your knee! You may easily make the last tweaks to your project while utilizing it with the needle down option!
The Horizon Memory Craft 8200QCP's typical free motion quilting settings are perfect for free motion quilters! You also receive a convertible free motion quilting foot with a closed toe, open toe, and clear view foot in addition to a darning foot that can be used for free motion quilting. It only takes a quick flick of a button on the machine's side to lower your feed dogs.
The Janome 4120QDC is a top-notch computerized sewing machine that is both incredibly sturdy and light enough to move about with ease. It is a powerful sewing machine that can handle a wide range of fabrics. Despite the fact that this machine may appear to be pricey, less expensive alternatives just cannot match its level of excellence.
Threading is simple with the jam-proof bobbin, which also keeps your stitches from straying over the edge of your project. In the meantime, you can effortlessly regulate the stitching pace, make small adjustments, and pivot on corners thanks to the user-friendly control panel and LCD screen.
The machine will remain functional as your skill set expands with 120 stitch options and 7 buttonhole options. A protective case that comes with the device protects it from dust and other substances that can harm it. An instructional DVD is also included so you can learn more about the machine.
The Janome 4120QDC was created to be an all-purpose machine in general. It can complete practically any task you give it. It boasts a tonne of features that make it one of the most adaptable and powerful sewing machines available.
- Stitches look professional
- Simple to use
- Excellent construction
- Versatile
- Expensive
- LED lighting is dim
- Makes noise
The Juki HZL-F600 takes the lead in the sewing and quilting machine industry. The tool has the potential to impress you with its professional performance and user-friendly features. Why should you invest in this machine? The reason is that it comes ahead with a sturdy motor designed to sew thick materials such as denim and several quilting layers, which other machines fail to do. Furthermore, you can unleash your creative side by making the most out of 255 stitch patterns and 16 buttonholes completely automatic. And do not forget the bonus part: it offers a large working space, bright LED lighting for you to navigate the instructions, and a box feed system to guarantee precision and ease so you can continue with your complicated sewing projects.
- You can sew home decoration items, dresses, and quilts.
- A large LCD screen to simplify your sewing tasks, even if you are a beginner.
- The machine is heavy as it is exactly 21.8 lbs.
- It is expensive.
- The manual is a bit challenging to understand.
Which fabrics work on the Brother Innov-is Laura Ashley Isodore 5000?
| 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) Upholstery Leather/suede | Fur Reptile skin Canvas/Twill Plastic/Rubber Extra thick fabrics or multiple layers |
What are the accessories that come with Brother Innov-is Laura Ashley Isodore 5000?
- 14 Snap on presser feet
- Buttonhole foot
- Embroidery foot
- Overcasting foot
- Monogramming foot
- Zipper foot
- Zigzag foot
- Blind stitch foot
- Button fitting foot
- Open Toe Walking foot
- Sidecutter foot
- Free-motion quilting foot
- Free-motion open toe quilting foot
- Free-motion echo quilting foot
- Straight stitch foot
- Braiding foot
- Cording foot
- Circular attachment
- Multi-media card (MMC)
- XD picture card
- Secure digital (SD) card
- Memory stick
- On board Accessory Storage – when embroidery unit is removed
- Carrying Case Laura Ashley Rolling Bag
- Brother Embroidery System (BES®) Monogramming Suite Software
- Accessory pouch with seam ripper
- 10 Bobbins
- Twin needle
- Ballpoint needle set
- Scissors
- Chalk pen
- Lint brush
- Eyelet punch
- 3 Screwdrivers (1 large/1 medium/1 small)
- 3 Spool caps (1 large/1 medium/1 small)
- Vertical spool pin
- Spool felt
- Spool net
- 4 Embroidery sheets
- Embroidery needle plate cover
- Stylus
- Bobbin case
- Cord guide bobbin cover
- Embroidery bobbin thread
- Stabilizer material
- Embroidery unit carry case
- Hard case
- Bobbin guide set
- USB cable, power cord
- Owner’s manual
- 4 Embroidery Hoops
- 7″ x 12″
- 5″ x 7″
- 4″ x 4″
- 1″ x 2.5″
How to maintain the Brother Innov-is Laura Ashley Isodore 5000?
| 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 |
Summary: Brother Innov-is Laura Ashley Isodore 5000 Overview
After careful reviewing, I would say that the Brother Innov-is Laura Ashley Isodore 5000 is not what I would call a ‘perfect’ sewing and embroidery machine, but it definitely has some great features. The warning signals are excellent safety features that should be included on every sewing machine.
I like working with the touch screen and I absolutely love the extra-large work space. The placement of the drop feed is a definite plus in my opinion. It is easy to get to and very easy to use. Just slide the lever left or right and that’s it.
All in all, I think the Brother Innov-is Laura Ashley Isodore 5000 is a good sewing machine. I am concerned with a couple of things, however.
First of all, the material used for the lid seems very fragile to me. It is made of that kind of plastic that feels as though it will crack or break if something bumps it or if it is handled too much.
Next is the clear cover over the needle. Although I was told there was an issue with the automatic needle threader, I did not encounter any problems during this review.
That is not to say that all the bugs have been worked out, but I tend to think that the manufacturer at least made a serious effort to correct the problem.
This is encouraging in that the manufacturer is obviously concerned about making sure users are pleased with their product and want to make sure it works properly.
Using the stitch selection guide is a bit cumbersome, simply because it is easier to just look inside the lid and refer to the stitch guide rather than a separate sheet that could easily get misplaced in a busy sewing room.
I was not in a rush when I did this review, so it was no big deal for me to scroll through the on board stitch menus to find a specific stitch. If, however, I were working at home and didn’t have a lot of time to do this, I can see how this could be a time consuming task that could be avoided if there had been an on board stitch guide.
All of the safety features, coupled with the quiet operation and the number of stitch options outweigh those concerns in a lot of ways. Of course, the real test of any sewing machine comes after it has been in use at home for a while.
Based upon my findings during this review, however, I believe anyone who purchases the Brother Innov-is Laura Ashley Isodore 5000 will be pleased with it.
When I attempted to research it online, I discovered that it is no longer listed on the Brother website, which tells me this is a limited edition machine that is no longer being produced.
That does not mean that you cannot find one if you want to check it out for yourself. All it takes is a visit to your local authorized Brother Innov-is dealer.
The staff will no doubt be very happy to show you the Brother Innov-is Laura Ashley Isodore 5000, give you a hands-on demonstration and answer any questions you may have.
Brother Innov-is Laura Ashley Isodore 5000 Review
Summary
The Brother Innov-is Laura Ashley Isodore 5000 is a computerized sewing machine that is designed for intermediate and experienced sewers. It has 200 built-in stitches, 7 one-step buttonholes, automatic needle threader, drop-in bobbin, speed control slider, LED light, backlit LCD screen, free arm, built-in extension table, My Custom Stitch feature, quilting capabilities, automatic thread tension, needle up/down button, thread cutter, 7 sewing feet, decorative stitches, and AcuFeed Flex Feed System. It is easy to use and can handle a variety of fabrics and projects, but it is expensive and not as portable as some other machines.
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Happy Stitching.
I’m looking into purchasing a new machine and I want to quilt and embroider. I looked at this machine today and now I’m reconsidering it. I have been researching for 4 months and I’m afraid of making the wrong decision. My husband and I are on a strict budget and I don’t want something that will be a clothes catcher Greatly appreciate any advice you may have.
Thanks
Lisa
Hello, Lisa –
Thank you for visiting Sewing Insight.
The Isodore is a good multi-purpose machine and is more affordably priced than many others in the same category.
When budget and space are of concern, a multi-purpose machine can be the ideal solution. Be aware, however, that single purpose machines generally perform better and have fewer servicing issues.
Regardless of the machine you and your husband ultimately decide upon, make sure you take advantage of all the lessons offered by the dealer. In order to be assured of peak performance at all times, to take your machine in for regular cleaning and servicing as well. These service calls might seem to be unnecessary when the machine is working well, but they are absolutely necessary if you want to keep it in tip top shape.
Happy stitching.
I have this machine and I love everything about it except if you look on the list above it is not recommended to be used to sew with extra thick fabric or multi layers. If you want to quilt this may not be the best machine for you.
My machine often won’t open; the screen just shows the light pattern. Any ideas what might be the problem?
I love this machine. I love the entire Brother line I have the Innovis 5000 along with 5 other Brother machines. All the Brother machines are so amazing quiet and are a joy to work with
I have had this machine for around 6 years. I’ve never had any trouble with it. I quilt, sew clothes, and have made many fabric masks for the pandemic. It sews through 3 or 4 layers without any issues. Love my machine!
Do you get it serviced regularly? I’m looking at buying one. It has a very low stitch count
hi, I wanted to buy this machine but I can’t find it in Italy, I like Laura Ashley’s 44 embroideries, would it be possible to buy at least the pes files?