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Brother Laura Ashley Innovis Limited Edition NX 800 Review (2023 Update)
Note from the Editor: This Brother Laura Ashley Innovis Limited Edition NX 800 review was originally written in 2012, and has been revised and updated in 2023. Since this is a limited edition product, this is no longer manufactured. We have added alternatives such as Brother SE1900, Juki HZL-F600, and Janome 4120QDC.
The Brother Laura Ashley Innovis Limited Edition NX 800 is the second limited edition sewing and quilting machine in the Laura Ashley Innovis line.
This innovative machine was unveiled last August at a national sewing convention and was an instant hit with sewing aficionados as well as sewing and machine quilting hobbyists at various skill levels.
Brother Laura Ashley Innovis Limited Edition NX 800 Overview
Brother Laura Ashley Innovis Limited Edition NX 800 is a machine that can sew, embroider, and do a lot of other things. It is very flexible and has a lot of features. The machine has a large embroidery area of 5" x 7", allowing you to create larger designs with ease. It also has a large LCD touchscreen display that makes it easy to navigate through various settings and options. The NX 800 comes with 136 built-in embroidery designs, including 10 Laura Ashley designs, and 181 built-in stitches, including utility stitches, decorative stitches along with 10 styles of one-step buttonholes. An automatic needle threader that automatically threads the needle and an automatic thread cutter that cuts the thread with the touch of a button, saving you time and effort. The machine has a USB port that allows you to import and export designs to and from your computer.
This is a limited edition release that is no longer manufactured. We recommend trying out other alternatives that we have added to this post.
With its 10 button touchpad and LCD screen, the Brother Laura Ashley Innovis Limited Edition NX 800 looks like many of the electronic sewing machines produced today.
However, few sewing machines in this class are capable of rendering as many utility and decorative stitches. The fact that this machine can produce 138 stitches is a definite plus.
In addition, the LCD screen helps new users walk through the process of selecting stitches with ease.
When a particular stitch is selected, the helpful on board guide gives step by step instructions to help the user adjust stitch length and width as well as signal when it is necessary to use a different presser foot change or if other steps are required before executing a specific stitch.
What are some alternatives for Brother Laura Ashley Innovis Limited Edition NX 800?
We have mentioned in this review that the Brother Laura Ashley Innovis Limited Edition NX 800 is a limited time released and is no longer in production. Here are a few alternatives that we recommend instead.
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.
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.
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.
What are the features on Brother Laura Ashley Innovis NX 800?
The Laura Ashley NX 800 is equipped with all of the features any machine quilter or sewing enthusiast could dream of having.
Starting with the 138 built in stitches, the functional LCD backlit screen and the 10 button touchpad, this machine is easy for even beginning home sewers to use. All it takes is a little bit of practice time.
Other features include:
- 14 needle positions
- Presser foot leveling to facilitate sewing varying fabric thicknesses
- Drop feed
- Adjustable presser foot pressure
- On board thread cutter
- Knee lifter
- 850 stitches per minute
- Large work space
- Free arm
- Super bright LED lighting
- Automatic tension adjustment
- Automatic needle threader
- Seam guide etched needle plate
- 7 point superior feed dog system
- Advanced threading system
- Adjustable speed slider
Sewing on the Brother Laura Ashley Innovis NX 800
Even before threading the Brother Innovis NX 800 I was impressed by the fact that a light signaled if the needle was in the up or down position… green if down and red if up.
The tread guides on this sewing machine are easy to follow and the automatic needle threader eliminates the most challenging part of threading any sewing machine.
The top bobbin winding mechanism is easy to follow and the front drop in bobbin is even simpler to master.
Selecting stitches is as easy as dialing up the stitch number on the 10 key touchpad and following the directions that appear on the LCD screen.
For this review, I sampled several utility and decorative stitches. Each of the stitches I selected was easy to execute, even when I adjusted stitch length and width.
This machine is so efficient that when I attempted to test one of the 10 buttonholes without changing the presser foot, the machine stopped, emitted a series of beeps, and a message appeared on the LCD screen telling us to change the presser foot.
When had the same experience when attempting to test some of the on board quilting stitches.
Each of the stitches I sampled was not only easy to execute, the automatic tension adjustment coupled with the on board tutorials guarantee that the end results are perfect each and every time.
Although it was not necessary for this particular review, the Brother Innovis Laura Ashley NV 800 is equipped with the exclusive Brother presser foot leveler and adjustable presser foot pressure make working with very thick layers of fabric and varying thicknesses go smoothly, without any snags or dragging.
The accessories case is built into the work table. Changing the snap on presser feet or grabbing one of the three screwdrivers for a quick needle change is a breeze with these essentials right at your fingertips.
The accessories case is removed by simply sliding it off. When it is not attached to the sewing machine, the free arm is exposed, making it possible to sew cuffs, sleeve hems and handle small sewing tasks with ease.
The on board ruler helps to enable the user to move from step to step without even getting up from the sewing table.
Upon reviewing the owner’s manual and quick reference guide, I was pleased to see the inclusion of basic sewing instructions such as zipper insertion, needle selection tips for specific fabric types, and how and when to use the utility stitches for tasks like hemming, basting, sewing knits and other basic sewing techniques.
Owner’s manual and quick reference guide
Maintenance and Care of the Brother Laura Ashley Innovis Limited Edition NX 800
The inclusion of a lint brush is a clear indication that the manufacturer strongly recommends that the Brother Laura Ashley Innovis Limited Edition NX 800 feed dogs, bobbin housing and needle area be cleaned on a regular basis.
Since lint is deposited on the moving parts of any sewing machine every time it is used, I recommend that your machine be cleaned after each use, especially if you work with natural fibers.
When it comes to more thorough cleaning and servicing, the Brother Laura Ashley Innovis Limited Edition NX 800 is no different from other electronic sewing machines.
It is necessary for you to take the machine to an authorized Brother Innovis service professional for a thorough cleaning and servicing at least once every year. If you use your machine more frequently, you will have to take it in for servicing more frequently.
Which fabrics work on the Brother Laura Ashley Innovis Limited Edition NX 800?
| 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 | Leather/suede Fur Reptile skin Canvas/Twill Plastic/Rubber |
What are the accessories that come with Brother Laura Ashley Innovis NX 800?
Standard accessories included with every Brother Laura Ashley Innovis Limited Edition NX 800 are:
- 14 presser feet
- Buttonhole
- Overcastting
- Monogramming
- Zipper
- Zigzag
- Blind stitch
- Button finishing
- Walking
- Quilting (2)
- Stitch guide
- Adjustable zipper/piping
- Non-stick
- Open toe
- Side cutter
- Quilting guide
- Seam ripper
- 4 bobbins
- Extra needles
- Twin needle
- Foot controller
- Knee lifter
- Quilting grid sheet set
- Eyelet punch
- Screwdrivers (3)
- Large
- Small
- Disc shaped
- Spool caps (4)
- Small
- Medium (2)
- Large
- Extra spool pin
- Spool net
- Lint brush
- Stitch pattern plate
- Molded plastic carrying case
- Accessories bag
- Owner’s manual
- Quick reference guide
In addition, optional accessories available at authorized Brother Innovis dealers and through the Brother website include quilting essentials such as an extra wide work table and a ¼ inch quilting foot.
How to maintain the Brother Laura Ashley Innovis Limited Edition NX 800?
| 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 |
Brother Laura Ashley Innovis Limited Edition NX 800 Summary
The Brother Laura Ashley Innovis Limited Edition NX 800 is one of those sewing machines that just about anyone can use. I hesitate to recommend its use by children or people who are intimidated by sewing machines that offer a lot of stitch options. However, if you are new to the art of sewing and want to explore your creative side, this machine could be perfect for you.
The 138 on board stitch options, helpful LCD display and information sharing basic sewing tips and techniques make learning to sew on this machine easier than learning on some other machine of this type. The touchpad and ease of threading and winding the bobbin make set up a breeze. The automatic needle threader is a major advantage for those home sewers who may have been sewing for many, many years and are now coping with challenges to their eye sight.
The adjustable presser foot pressure and presser foot leveler are ideal for quilting. In addition, these features are a great asset when making coats, working with denim and working with any project that involves sewing seams that are of varying thickness. This includes waistbands, hems, purses and home décor items.
The Brother Laura Ashley Innovis is a good machine for the machine quilter as well as the home sewing enthusiast who likes to work on different types of projects. This electronic sewing machine is not only good for clothing construction, sewing accessories, monogramming and for making home decor items such as quilts, duvet covers, and window treatments as well as gift items for family members and friends.
The $1199 price tag makes the Brother Laura Ashley LE NX 800 one of the most reasonably priced limited edition sewing machines I have reviewed in the past few months. I am pleased to report that this machine is within reach of many home sewers without straining the family budget. While the cost is not prohibitive, I do not think this is a machine for the inexperienced or casual home sewer who is not committed to sewing.
Because of the investment necessary to acquire this exceptional sewing and quilting machine, I do not recommend that it be purchased for use by children younger than 12 years of age or that children of any age be allowed to operate it without close supervision. I strongly recommend that even children 12 and older who have some sewing experience and are familiar with the workings of a sewing machine be closely monitored while using the Brother Laura Ashley LE NX 800 until you are certain they are capable to operating it properly, and that they clearly understand all of its features and specifications.
I recommend the Brother Laura Ashley Innovis Limited Edition NX 800 for the intermediate home sewing enthusiast who is ready to take their sewing adventures to the next level. I also recommend this machine for the beginner who is committed to sewing for many years to come and for the advanced home sewer who wants to add another dimension to their sewing room.
Brother Laura Ashley Innovis Limited Edition NX 800 Review
Summary
The Brother Laura Ashley Innovis Limited Edition NX 800 is a sewing and quilting machine that was released in 2018. It has a 4.3″ color LCD touch screen, 138 built-in stitches, 10 one-step buttonholes, 3 sewing fonts, and a large embroidery field of 5″ x 7″. It also has an automatic needle threader, quick-set, top-loading bobbin, and a variety of other features that make it a versatile machine.
The Brother Laura Ashley Innovis Limited Edition NX 800 is a good sewing and quilting machine for both beginners and experienced sewers. It is easy to use and has a variety of features that make it a versatile machine.
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Happy Stitching.
I bought a used innovis 800 but it doesnt have the stitch pattern pallet with it do you have one or know if anyone still sales them