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Brother PQ 1500SL PRW Review (2023 Update)
Note from the Editor: This Brother PQ 1500SL PRW Review was originally written in 2016, and has been revised and updated in 2023. We have added alternative sewing machines such as Juki DDL-8700, Juki Haruka TL18QVP, and SINGER | 9960.
When I visited Laura’s Sewing and Fabric in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, to review the Brother Dream Fabric Frame, it was attached to the Brother PQ 1500SL PRW sewing and quilting machine. During the course of reviewing the Dream Fabric Frame, it was impossible to avoid reviewing the PQ 1500SL PRW as well.
During the course of this review, I witnessed how this straight stitch-only sewing and quilting machine operates in the quilting mode. I was able to personally judge the stitch quality, the workmanship, the feel, and the ease of operation, including the level of noise and vibration.
Brother PQ 1500SL PRW Overview
The Brother PQ1500SL Straight Stitch Sewing and Quilting Machine is a versatile and powerful machine designed to meet the needs of sewing enthusiasts and quilters alike. Whether you're working on intricate quilting projects or tackling heavy-duty sewing tasks, this machine is engineered to deliver exceptional performance and precision.
Featuring a straight stitch-only functionality, the PQ1500SL is perfect for achieving professional-grade stitching on various fabrics. With its high-speed sewing capability of up to 1500 stitches per minute, you can complete your projects quickly and efficiently. The machine's advanced features and robust construction make it suitable for both home use and professional settings.
One of the standout features of the PQ1500SL is its generous workspace. The extended 12x18-inch wide table provides ample room for maneuvering larger quilts and fabrics, giving you the freedom to create larger designs with ease. The table also features a convenient storage compartment for keeping your essential tools and accessories within reach.
Precision and control are paramount in quilting and sewing, and the PQ1500SL delivers on both fronts. The automatic thread trimmer allows you to neatly cut threads at the end of each seam, saving you time and effort. The built-in knee lifter enables hands-free raising and lowering of the presser foot, allowing you to pivot and manipulate fabric effortlessly.
Equipped with a durable feed dog system, the PQ1500SL ensures smooth and consistent fabric feeding, preventing fabric shifting or bunching during stitching. The adjustable pin feed mechanism adds to its versatility, allowing for precise fabric management, particularly when working with heavyweight materials or multiple layers.
The machine offers an array of adjustable settings, including stitch length and thread tension, allowing you to fine-tune your stitches according to your specific requirements. The intuitive control panel and LCD display make it easy to navigate through the different options and settings.
Brother has incorporated several user-friendly features into the PQ1500SL. The needle threader simplifies the threading process, saving you time and reducing eye strain. The included accessory kit provides a range of helpful tools such as a walking foot, free-motion quilting foot, and multiple specialty feet, expanding your creative possibilities.
In summary, the Brother PQ1500SL Straight Stitch Sewing and Quilting Machine is a reliable and versatile companion for sewing and quilting enthusiasts. Its high-speed stitching, ample workspace, and advanced features make it an excellent choice for those seeking precision and efficiency in their projects. Whether you're a hobbyist or a professional, this machine is built to meet the demands of your creative endeavors.
The Brother PQ 1500SL PRW is a basic sewing and quilting machine with onboard telescoping thread guides, which make it possible to easily use cone thread.
The stitch length adjustment dial is located in front of the column. Directly beneath that dial is a lever which enables the user to adjust the drop feed level. This is an important feature when you are NOT using the Brother Dream Fabric Frame because it makes it possible for users to work with varying thicknesses of fabric with ease.
The knee lifter, which is also not necessary when using the Dream Fabric Frame, is essential for any home machine quilter because their hands are free while adjusting small or large quilting projects on a smaller work space.
There is a large reverse stitch lever on the lower edge of the column, which allows the user to lock stitches and have greater flexibility when working on freehand sewing projects. Above the needle is a manual tension adjustment dial.
What are the features on Brother PQ 1500SL PRW?
- Sews up to 1500 stitches per minute
- Adjustable stitch length up to 7mm
- Built-in knee lifter
- Automatic thread cutter button
- Side loaded bobbin
- Manual tension adjustment
- 4 Position drop feed
- Pin Feed – allows the user to exchange the feed dogs for a single pin that extends from beneath the machine to advance fabric without leaving feed dog marks on delicate fabrics
- Extending thread guide bar to accommodate cone thread
- Adjustable presser foot pressure
- Needle plate with etched seam guides
Working on the BROTHER PQ 1500SL PRW
While there are on-board threading guides, they are not as clearly defined as on some other models. They are, however, easy to follow for anyone who is already familiar with basic sewing machine operation. For those who are new to working on a sewing machine, the process is, in my opinion, easy to learn.
Since the Brother PQ 1500SL PRW is a straight stitch only machine, the only stitch selection step is to determine the desired stitch length in advance and set the dial to the proper setting.
During this review, sewing with the Brother PQ 1500SL PRW while attached to the Dream Fabric Frame was accomplished by pressing the start/stop button on the control box attached to the handlebar on the Dream Fabric Frame.
Since there is no start/stop button on the PQ 1500SL PRW, it is necessary to engage the foot pedal when the Brother Dream Fabric Frame is not in use. The on thread cutting option is, however, a standard feature on the PL 1500SL PRW.
With the Dream Fabric in place, the sewing speed is dictated by the speed with which the user moves the handlebar. When the Brother PQ 1500SL PRW is operating on its own, the speed is regulated by the pressure the user applies to the foot pedal.
When using the Dream Fabric Frame, the stitch quality is only as good as the quality of the stitches produced by the machine you use. During this review, I observed that not only were the stitches perfect in every way, the Brother PQ 1500SL PRW is unexpectedly quiet.
Regardless of the speed with which I moved the handlebars, the noise level remained the same. In addition, I did not detect any vibration whatsoever as I moved the handlebars at varying speeds.
What are some alternatives for Brother PQ 1500SL PRW?
The Singer 7258, Bernette B77, Juki HZL-F600 and the Janome Memory Craft 6650 are great alternative sewing and quilting machines that you should consider based on your budget.
The Singer Stylist 7258 combines functionality with convenience. Ideal for enthusiasts ranging from beginners to intermediates, this computerized sewing marvel boasts 100 built-in stitches, making it a versatile companion for various projects. The heavy-duty metal frame ensures durability, while features like push-button stitch selection, LCD screen, and programmable options simplify tasks. With an array of accessories and user-friendly design, the 7258 addresses the needs of creative minds, providing an efficient solution for fashion, quilting, and home sewing endeavors.
Read the detailed Singer 7258 review
Last but not least is the Bernette B77 Sewing and Quilting Machine that is bound to make you add to your shopping cart. And the credits go to none other than its wide variety of features, which are usually found in high-end quilting machines. This particular machine beats the other traditional machines with a 5-inch color touchscreen for easier stitch selection and a semi-automatic needle for simplifying the quilting setup. Furthermore, you will also see a dual-feed system that guarantees even fabric feed when you have to sew slippery fabrics. Not forgetting to mention that the machine is designed with 500 sewing stitches and 230 mm of stitching space, so you can get as creative as you want. It offers you a slide-on extension table that makes working easy, especially when receiving big orders.
Read the detailed Bernette B77 review
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.
Read the detailed Juki HZL F600 review
Janome Memory Craft 6650 Sewing and Quilting Machine takes the seventh position in the category of the best eight quilting machines. It’s considered a powerhouse since the instrument is packed with versatility and precision, becoming the top quilter and sewer choice. The machine attracts you with its spacious 10’’ throat space, making it perfect for managing bulky quilt projects. After that, you will see that the device carries a robust body with 170 built-in stitches, a superior needle threader for you to resume intricate sewing easily, and includes alphabets to ensure that you are doing it correctly. This specific quilting machine offers you speedy stitching of up to 1000 stitches per minute, promising you an efficient workflow. At the same time, the LCD screen allows easier navigation, simplifying usability.
Which fabrics work on the Brother PQ 1500SL PRW?
| Fabrics that work | Fabrics that don’t work |
|---|---|
| Fur Reptile skin Canvas/Twill Plastic/Rubber | Extra thick fabrics or multiple layers Leather/suede Natural fibers/cotton-linen-wool Fine fabrics/silk-satin-taffeta/velvet Synthetic fabrics/blends-rayon-polyester Knits(Medium to heavyweight only) Upholstery Denim |
What are the accessories that come with Brother PQ 1500SL PRW?
- 7 Presser feet
- General purpose foot
- Rolled hem foot
- Adjustable zipper foot
- Invisible zipper foot
- 1/4″ Foot
- Spring action quilting foot
- Walking foot
- Extra-large extension table
- Spool net
- Knee lifter
- Accessory kit
- Extra needles
- Spool cap
- Fabric separator
- Feed pin
- Feed pin changer
- 5 Metal bobbins
- Seam guide
- Lint brush
- 2 screwdrivers (1 large/1 small)
- Spool cushion
- Owner’s manual
- Dust cover
How to maintain the Brother PQ 1500SL 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 PQ 1500SL PRW Review
Whether you use the Brother PQ 1500SL PRW as a stand alone sewing and quilting machine or attached to the Brother Dream Fabric Frame, I believe that this sewing and quilting machine is a strong contender for one of the best straight stitch sewing machines on the market.
This machine does not have any of the bells and whistles that are available on lots of other sewing machines and has very few features aside from the thread cutter. It is a very basic, well-built sewing and quilting machine with a larger than average work space (5.7 x 8.6 needle to column) that is capable of working with lots of different types of fabrics.
Of course, if the extension table is attached, the work area is expanded to 11 x 23, but the needle to column ratio, of course, remains the same.
Since there is no zigzag stitch capability with this machine, the only way I would recommend it for garment construction is if you have one of those old fashioned buttonhole makers that can be attached to almost any sewing machine and a serger to finish seams.
If you decide you want to purchase the Brother PQ 1500SL PRW and use it for clothing construction as well as quilting, you must be prepared to add these two items to your sewing room if you do not already have them.
I love the buttonholes produced by these old sewing machine attachments because the finished project is always consistently perfect. You just choose a template based on the size and style of buttonhole you want, insert it in the machine, attach it to your sewing machine, and drop the feed dogs.
If you do not have a drop feed feature on your sewing machine, the buttonhole maker comes with a feed dog cover, which you must put in place before attaching the buttonhole maker. The only challenge is that buttonhole makers are no longer being made.
There are, however, several places both online as well as brick and mortar stores that specialize in parts for vintage sewing machines where you will be able to find buttonhole makers of all types. Both my sewing machines are capable of rendering zigzag stitches.
However, I have three buttonhole makers—one for each of my sewing machines and one that I just keep on hand for spare parts. Buttonhole makers were made to fit three basic types of sewing machines: long shank, short shank, and slant shank. If you decide to invest in a buttonhole maker, make sure you purchase one that fits your machine shank.
Since the Brother Dream Fabric Frame is a separate piece of equipment that is ideal for use when working on large quilt projects, it is not essential for you to purchase one to make very good use of the Brother PQ 1500SL PRW. It is indeed possible to use the Brother PQ 1500SL PRW for projects other than those large quilts for king size beds and the like without ever having to invest in the Dream Fabric Frame.
The PQ 1500SL PRW is ideal for anyone who likes to create smaller quilt projects like small wall hangings, quilted table runners and placemats, quilted accents on clothing items, and gift items.
If the majority of your sewing involves small quilting projects and gift items, and some clothing construction from time to time, or if you work on larger machine quilting projects but simply do not have space to set up a quilt frame—even one as small and versatile as the Brother Dream Fabric Frame, you owe it to yourself to take a long, hard look at the Brother PQ 1500SL PRW before making a final decision when shopping for a new sewing and quilting machine.
Brother PQ 1500SL PRW Review
Summary
The Brother PQ 1500SL PRW is a high-speed serger that is designed for both home and light-duty commercial use. It has a number of features that make it a good choice for sewers who are looking for a versatile and powerful machine, including 1500 stitches per minute sewing speed, 7 built-in stitch patterns, differential feed control, automatic thread tension, automatic needle threader, drop-in bobbin, knee lifter, large work table, and sturdy construction.
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Happy Stitching.
thank you for this great review & suggestion of the buttonhole maker – which I have found from a garage sale or Ebay! I don’t know if you are still publishing on your website but i have found your reviews helpful over the years. I have a Babylock Jane which is I know the same as this Brother since Babylock really doesn’t make it’s own machines.