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Brother Project Runway NS80 Limited Edition Review (2023 Update)
Note from the Editor: This Brother Project Runway NS80 Limited Edition Review was originally written in 2012, and has been revised and updated in 2023. Since the Brother Project Runway NS80 was a limited release, it is no longer produced by Brother. We have added alternatives such as Brother CP100X, Janome Memory Craft Horizon 8200 QCP, and Brother SE1900.
The popular television program, Project Runway, has spawned a brand new interest in home sewing. This is a much-welcomed shot in the arm for the sewing machine industry. The folks at Brother International were successful in partnering with the successful show that shines the spotlight on talented fashion designers. This partnership has resulted in an exclusive line of Project Runway sewing machines and sergers. I had the pleasure of reviewing one of the limited edition sewing and quilting machines in the Project Runway line, which is the Brother Project Runway NS80 Limited Edition.
Brother Project Runway NS80 Limited Edition Overview
The Brother Project Runway NS80 Limited Edition is a compact and portable computerized sewing machine that is perfect for beginners and experienced sewers alike. It comes with 80 built-in stitches, including utility stitches, decorative stitches, and quilting stitches, as well as eight styles of one-step buttonholes.
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 Project Runway NS80 Limited Edition has an automatic needle threader and a quick-set bobbin system for easy and convenient threading. Additionally, the machine has a variety of convenient features, such as a start/stop button, a speed control slider, and a built-in thread cutter. These features make it easy to sew a variety of projects, from garments to home decor, with precision and ease. Overall, the Brother Project Runway NS80 Limited Edition is a great choice for sewers who want a compact and portable machine without sacrificing functionality.
This model was a limited edition launch and is now discontinued. We recommend trying out similar alternatives that we have added to this post.
If it were not for the Project Runway logo, you might mistake the Brother Project Runway NS 80 Limited Edition for any other sewing and quilting machine on the market.
However, one look at the on board stitch selector guide mounted to the carrying handle, thread cutter, needle threader, and other time saving features will let you know why this machine is so good for the high paced Project Runway competition.
The on board accessories case, free arm, and speedy threading and bobbin winding features only enhance this machine’s value when you find it necessary to get the best results in the least amount of time.
What are the features on Brother Project Runway NS80 Limited Edition?
The long list of quality time saving features that are standard on the Brother Project Runway NS 80 Limited Edition includes:
- Exclusive Brother advanced needle threading system
- 14 Needle Positions
- Top, drop-in, Quick-Set™ bobbin
- Automatic bobbin winding system
- Manual upper tension
- Drop feed function
- Free arm
- Maximum Sewing Speed: 850 stitches per minute
- LCD Monochrome display
- 10 key digital control panel
- LCD monochrome display
- On board accessory storage case
- Carrying case
- Warranty: 25 year limited warranty
- Adjustable stitch length and width
- Lightweight: 14 pounds
Working on the Brother Project Runway NS 80 Limited
Starting with the stitch chart attached to the top of the Brother Project Runway NS 80 Limited sewing and quilting machine, the easy-to-follow threading guide, and the automatic bobbin winding system, I was immediately reminded of how user friendly this machine actually is.
Threading the machine and winding the front drop in bobbin were as easy as they could possibly be.
The process of actually sewing on this machine was even easier. Selecting stitches was made less complicated by the immediate access of the stitch chart.
Having it attached to the top of the machine was a sheer stroke of genius. When you are dealing with 80 stitch options and 10 different buttonholes, it is, indeed a challenge to commit all of the stitch codes to memory. The fact that the Brother Project Runway NS 80 Limited Edition is capable of storing up to 35 stitch combinations in its on board memory is another major advantage to users. As with most other reviews, I decided to test various utility and decorative stitches. As expected, the stitch selection process was quite easy.
Dialing up the desired stitch was as easy as entering the stitch number on the digital buttons on the right side of the sewing machine. The LCD screen walked us through the stitch selection process, yielding perfect results each and every time. The user friendly owner’s manual explained in clear detail which tension setting was best for various fabric types as well as selected stitches.
The on board accessories case and free arm make quick presser foot needle changes so fast that Project Runway competitors can finish the race without missing a single stitch or losing any time in the process. The three-speed slider control is an ideal feature for working on intricate projects as well as for beginners and intermediate sewers with limited experience who are becoming familiar with the Brother Project Runway NS 80 Limited Edition, its features, specifications, and operation.
What are some alternatives for Brother Project Runway NS80 Limited Edition?
We have noted in this review that the Brother Project Runway NS80 Limited Edition was a limited edition model, and is no longer manufactured. Here are some alternatives we recommend instead.
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.
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 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 Project Runway NS80 Limited Edition?
| 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 | Fur Reptile skin Canvas/Twill Plastic/Rubber Leather/suede |
What are the accessories that come with Brother Project Runway NS80 Limited Edition?
Standard accessories included with every Brother Project Runway NS 80 Limited edition sewing and quilting machine are:
- 7 Presser feet
- Buttonhole
- Overcastting
- Zigzag
- Zipper
- Button
- Monogramming
- Blind stitch
- Seam ripper
- 4 bobbins
- Eyelet punch
- Lint brush
- Screwdrivers
- 3 Spool caps
- Extra spool pin
How to maintain the Brother Project Runway NS80 Limited Edition?
| 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 Project Runway NS80 Limited Edition Review
To sum it all up, after careful review, the Brother Project Runway NS80 Limited Edition is one of the best computerized sewing and quilting machines in its price range. Do not let the term “Limited Edition” scare you off.
Unlike some other limited edition sewing machines, this one is designed to fit any budget. With a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of a mere $899, I believe the Brother Project Runway NS80 Limited Edition is well worth the asking price. The owner’s manual is written in such a way that it is an ideal learning tool for the beginning sewer and an excellent resource for those who have been sewing for many years.
While I hesitate to recommend any computerized sewing machine for use by children, I believe this one might be the exception to that rule. I believe anyone beyond the elementary school level would be able to use the Brother Project Runway NS80 Limited Edition with ease. The on board tutorials provided by the LCD monochromatic screen and the easy to follow threading guide and bobbin winder are so user friendly that I think anyone 12 years of age or older would not be challenged by the processes.
They might be challenged by having to manually adjust the upper tension, but this is a step any student would have to master if working on a mechanical sewing machine. Based upon that simple fact, I do not think a manual tension adjustment should be a dissuading factor in deciding to purchase this machine. In addition, the adjustable speed slider is a major advantage for the beginner.
As their sewing skills improve, users have the option of increasing the speed up to 850 stitches per minute. People who have been sewing for a very long time and are accustomed to faster sewing machines might be put off by the fact that the highest speed is only 850 stitches per minute. Although this is a little slower than the 1,000 or 1,500 stitches per minute some intermediate and advanced home sewers may be accustomed to, I believe the other options make up for the lack of speed.
When you consider the fact that this machine renders 10 automatic one step buttonholes, on board thread cutters, an automatic needle threader, and 80 utility and decorative stitches, along with an on board accessories case, snap on presser feet, and so many other attractive features, the speed, or lack thereof, is a minor inconvenience.
Another major advantage to having a Brother Project Runway NS80 Limited Edition sewing and quilting machine is the fact that it is portable. Sewing students can carry this machine to class with ease. This machine comes with a soft carrying case that makes it easy to transport to and from college campuses, vacation homes, and anywhere else you may want to take it. At just 14 pounds, it is lightweight and easy for even the smallest home sewer to lift and carry. Even though an extended worktable is an optional accessory, it takes up very little table or desk space, making it an ideal travel companion. You could even sew while taking a long train trip if you choose to spend the time creating something fabulous to wear once you reach your final destination.
When it comes to picking the right computerized sewing and quilting machine, there are a lot of options to consider and lots of models to choose from. If you have an on-the-go lifestyle, the portability and light weight of the Brother Project Runway NS 80 Limited Edition are viable options for you. You should also consider this machine if you are new to sewing or have been sewing for a while but want to expand into machine quilting and monogramming.
This machine is good for students, intermediate sewers, and advanced home sewers who are in the market for a new sewing machine that is capable of sewing, quilting, and monogramming with the latest computerized technology.
Brother Project Runway NS80 Limited Edition Review
Summary
The Brother Project Runway NS80 Limited Edition is a computerized sewing machine that is designed for beginner and intermediate sewers. It has 80 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, and a built-in extension table. It is easy to use and can handle a variety of fabrics and projects. It is not as expensive as some other machines, and it is portable enough to take to classes or workshops.
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Happy Stitching.
This was a very helpful review.
This was very helpful in deciding to purchase this machine.
i would like to purchase a owners manual for project runway limited edition innovis-is 80 i dont want to download
como puedo obtener un tutorial de funcionamiento de la maquina de coser Brother Mod. ns-80.