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Brother Innov-is Project Runway Limited Edition NQ 1300 PRW Review (2023 Update)
Note from the Editor: This Brother Innov-is Project Runway Limited Edition NQ 1300 PRW Review was originally written in 2015, and has been revised and updated in 2023. Since this is a special edition sewing machine, it is no longer available. We have added alternatives such as Janome Memory Craft Horizon 8200 QCP, Janome 4120QDC, and Brother SE1900.
When you get a chance to spend an entire day in a sewing machine store checking out the new models, you never turn down the opportunity.
When the folks at Laura’s Sewing and Vacuum invited me to spend the day with them, I jumped at the chance to review the entire Q line from Brother. Among them was the Brother Innov-is Project Runway Limited Edition NQ 1300 PRW, which we have reviewed here today.
Brother Innov-is Project Runway Limited Edition NQ 1300 PRW Overview
The Brother Innov-is Project Runway Limited Edition NQ 1300 PRW is a computerized sewing machine that is designed for both novice and advanced sewers. The machine has a variety of features that make sewing easier and more efficient. It comes with 290 built-in stitches, including utility, decorative, and quilting stitches, as well as 10 styles of one-step buttonholes.
The Brother Innov-is Project Runway Limited Edition NQ 1300 PRW has a large, easy-to-read LCD screen for selecting and editing stitches, and it also has a built-in memory for saving customized stitch settings. The machine 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 pivot function, a knee lifter, and a thread cutter. These features make it easy to sew complex projects, such as quilts and garments, with precision and ease.
This is a limited-edition model that is no longer manufactured. We recommend trying out similar alternatives that we have added to this post.
The Brother Project Runway Limited Edition NQ 1300 PRW is one of several Brother sewing machines in the Q line that bear the logo of the popular television sewing design and sewing competition.
In addition to the Project Runway logo, the NQ 1300 PRW also has the distinguished Innov-is logo, an indication that it is available solely through authorized Brother Innov-is dealers.
There is a monochromatic LCD screen on the column with a touchpad that has a series of control buttons underneath. Above the needle you will find the advanced needle threader; function buttons – start/stop; needle up/down; presser foot up/down; reverse stitch; design stop and thread tie off/cut.
To the right of the function buttons is the variable speed slider with three settings. Beneath the needle is a bright LED light which illuminates the work surface, a see through bobbin cover and a needle plate with seam guides etched on it.
The two sided accessories case slides off to reveal a convenient free arm and the drop feed control lever – which is on the back of the free arm.
There is also an extension table which is used for quilting jobs as well as for working on large sewing tasks such as coats.
What are the features on Brother Innov-is Project Runway Limited Edition NQ 1300 PRW?
- 290 on board decorative and utility stitches, including:
- 58 combinable stitches
- 10 one-step auto-size buttonholes
- 5 Sewing fonts
- 3 Alphanumeric fonts
- 1 Cyrillic
- 1 Japanese
- Advanced needle threading system
- Automatic thread tension
- Jam-resistant Quick-Set™ drop-in top bobbin
- Sideways sewing
- Automatic Height Adjuster™ (AHA®)
- Pivot Function
- Longer feed dogs and zigzag foot
- My Custom Stitch™
- Reinforcement stitch
- Drop feed
- Function buttons:
- Start/stop
- Design stop
- Reverse stitch
- Presser foot up/down
- Needle up/down
- Variable speed slider
- Advanced needle threader
- On board stitch selection guide
- On board ruler
- Free arm
- LED Lighting
- Monochromatic LCD screen
- Left to right mirror image
- Stitch memory
Working on the Brother Innov-is Project Runway Limited Edition NQ 1300 PRW
The steps required to thread the Brother Project Runway Limited Edition NQ 1300 PRW and winding the bobbin is identical in all of the machines in the Brother Q series. Easy to understand and follow on board diagrams and guides take users through every step of the process.
After the machine is threaded and the bobbin is wound and securely in place, the next step is to select a stitch from the 290 utility and decorative stitch options.
The first step in selecting a stitch option is to refer to the stitch selection guide inside the lid on top of the machine. Next, Menu options on the column go to the menu icon on the column that matches the icon in the upper left corner of the section on the lid where the stitch is located.
Then, use left or right directional arrows to highlight the stitch you want on the LCD screen. The stitch will appear on the screen along with the default length and width settings along with identification of the ideal presser foot to use in order to execute the stitch properly.
This review was actually interrupted because a customer was interested in a demonstration. I stepped aside and observed as Laura sat with the client and showed her every single detail about the Brother Innov-is Project Runway Limited Edition NQ 1300 PRW.
No doubt, people reading some of my reviews may be inclined to believe that I give sewing machines a user friendly rating because I have been sewing for so long.
I have no way of knowing how long this customer has been sewing. I did, however, gather from the conversation that she had never before worked on a computerized sewing machine.
She was interested in purchasing a new machine that had an automatic needle threader and offered features that were not available on her old mechanical sewing machine.
After watching Laura thread the machine and go through the stitch selection process only once, this woman was able to perform those tasks with ease.
The stitch sample on black fabric was done by the customer. When the demonstration was finished, I sat back down at the machine and ran a few stitches myself, just so I could describe the feel of the machine.
Both the customer and I agree that the Brother Innov-is Project Runway Limited Edition NQ 1300 PRW is so quiet you can barely hear it from a distance of about 10 feet, very easy to operate and so well built that it does not vibrate at all.
What are some alternatives for Brother Innov-is Project Runway Limited Edition NQ 1300 PRW?
We have noted that the Brother Innov-is Project Runway Limited Edition NQ 1300 PRW was a limited time launch and is no longer manufactured. Here are some similar alternatives that 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.
The Brother Embroidery Machine, SE1900 is a computerized embroidery machine that is perfect for beginners and hobbyists. It has 138 built-in embroidery designs, including a variety of designs for monogramming, home décor, and clothing. It also has 11 built-in fonts and a 5" x 7" embroidery field.
The SE1900 also has a number of features that make it easy to use, such as the touch-screen display and the automatic needle threader. It also has a number of advanced features, such as the My Custom Stitch™ feature, which allows you to create your own custom stitches.
The SE1900 is a great choice for beginners and hobbyists who are looking for an embroidery machine with a variety of features and a great stitch quality. It is not the most affordable machine on the market, but it is a good value for the price.
Which fabrics work on the Brother Innov-is Project Runway Limited Edition NQ 1300 PRW?
| 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 Extra thick fabrics or multiple layers Denim | Fur Reptile skin Canvas/Twill Plastic/Rubber Leather/suede |
What are the accessories that come with Brother Innov-is Project Runway Limited Edition NQ 1300 PRW?
Standard accessories:
- 15 Snap on presser feet
- Zigzag Foot
- Monogramming Foot
- Overcasting Foot
- Zipper Foot
- Blind Stitch Foot
- Buttonhole Foot
- Button Fitting Foot
- Open Toe Foot
- Non-stick Foot
- Stitch Guide Foot
- Adjustable Zipper/Piping Foot
- Free-motion Echo Quilting Foot
- Free-motion Quilting Foot
- Walking Foot
- ¼” Quilting Foot with Guide
- Extra Needles
- Twin needle
- 4 Bobbins
- Quilting guide
- Seam ripper
- Lint brush
- Eyelet punch
- 3 Screwdrivers (large, L-shaped, Disc-shaped)
- Horizontal spool pin
- 4 Spool caps (1 large, 1 medium, 1 small, 1 mini-insert)
- Spool net
- Knee lifter
- Accessory bag
- Wide extension table
- Dust cover
- Grid sheet set
- Owner’s manual
- Quick reference guide
How to maintain the Brother Innov-is Project Runway Limited Edition NQ 1300 PRW?
| 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 Project Runway Limited Edition NQ 1300 PRW Review
The Brother Innov-is Project Runway NQ 1300 PRW is the last of the machines in the Brother Q line that I reviewed on that day long visit to Laura’s Sewing and Vacuum.
Each of the machines that I reviewed was user friendly and affordable. The NQ 1300 PRW has more to offer than the NQ 700 PRW the only other sewing and quilting machine in the Q line.
The primary difference between the 1300 and the 700 is the number of stitch options and the NQ 700 is not equipped with an automatic thread tension or automatic height adjustment feature. In addition, an extension table is only available as an optional accessory for those who purchase the 700.
I like this machine for beginners as well as advanced home sewers. It is one of those sewing machines that can satisfy practically everyone. Someone who has never before used a sewing machine will be at ease as they learn the ins and outs of sewing machine operation.
A person who has been sewing for just a short while will appreciate the ease with which they can adjust to this user-friendly machine and an advanced home sewer will be grateful for an opportunity to work on a machine that is so well built.
The affordability is another huge plus, regardless of the skill level. I do not, however, recommend that children younger than 12 years of age be permitted to use this machine.
Although it is extremely user friendly, it also has so many features and stitch options that a young child would be overwhelmed and possibly give up on the idea of sewing altogether.
The features and design are well thought out. I am not thrilled with the placement of the drop feed control lever, but I am coming to realize that this is not an issue for lots of people.
In fact, someone sent me an e-mail message specifically to let me know that reaching the drop feed control is no problem whatsoever if the extension table is in place.
With this in mind, I defer to those who own and are happy with sewing machines that have the drop feed control in the same position… on the back of the free arm.
Having said that, I continue to reserve my right to protest any control mechanism that is not within easy reach on the front of any sewing machine.
The Brother Innov-is Project Runway NQ 1300 PRW is one of the best sewing and quilting machines on the market today. Not only is it user friendly and affordable, it is also solid and very well built.
Of course, since the entire Q line is brand new, only time will tell if this is one of those sewing machines that will stand the test of time or if it will be obsolete in just a few short years.
My money, however, is on its longevity… providing the company does not stop making replacement parts after 10 years, forcing owners to purchase subsequent machines.
Even with this possibility in mind, I think anyone who is in the market for a new sewing and embroidery machine set aside time to visit their local Brother Innov-is dealer and do the same thing the customer did at Laura’s Sewing and Vacuum… ask for a demonstration of the Brother Innov-is Project Runway Limited Edition NQ 1300 PRW.
Brother Innov-is Project Runway Limited Edition NQ 1300 PRW Review
Summary
The Brother Innov-is Project Runway Limited Edition NQ 1300 PRW is a computerized sewing machine that is designed for intermediate and experienced sewers. It has 294 built-in stitches, 7 one-step buttonholes, an automatic needle threader, a drop-in bobbin, a speed control slider, an LED light, a backlit LCD screen, a free arm, a built-in extension table, the My Custom Stitch feature, quilting capabilities, automatic thread tension, a needle up/down button, a thread cutter, and 7 sewing feet. 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.
looking for pricing on the nq900prw and the nq1300prw
ppam
pqmmyqntich@gmai.com
Price on NQ1300PRW sewing machine
Did you ever get a price on the NQ1300PRW??
Found it for Christmas special pricing at $2400 regular and $1599 on sale they 12/24/17
What is the difference between a NQ1300 and a NQ1300prw
On the NQ 1300 how many needle positions are there to the left and right. For example in quilting if you want to move to a scant 1/4 inch is there an option for that.
Thinking about getting this machine. What is a good price? Thanks.
what is a good price for NQ1300PRW SEWING MACHINE
I just purchased this sewing machine at English’s Sewing Center in Reidland, KY. I have had my singer sewing machine for 33 years and decided for as much sewing as I do that I needed to update. MAN DID I EVER – I absolutely love this machine. I have been sewing for 46 years and I wish I could get on a mountain top and tell everyone who sews to purchase this machine….. It is amazing and I have only had it for 4 days. I do a lot of window treatments, drapes, pillows, crafts and clothes for all ages. I was able last weekend to alter suit pants for my husband and this machine allowed you to go through very thick fabrics. What would have normally taken me at least 1 hour took about 15 minutes. It looks so very professional. I can’t wait to get off work to head home to sew more. Best investment I have ever made.
What is the price on this sewing machine?
I have had mine for 8 months and already in the shop. I am highly disappointed. I have had 4 brother machines and they have to go the shop within the first year. I will never buy another brother!!
I have trouble with threading the newdle on this machine as well as the bobbin. I use Guitterman thread but the eye on needle is small and threading front to back is difficult for me. Also the store I purched it from said the complete manual could be downloaded but I am having troule locating it thru the Brother website. My machine only came with a quick reference guide. Any suggestions on obtaining a complete manual?