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Brother SQ 9050 Review (2023 Update)
Note from the Editor: This Brother SQ 9050 Review was originally written in 2013, and has been revised and updated in 2023. We have added alternative embroidery machines such as Juki HZL-F400, Brother XR3774, and JUKI HZL-F300.
I really wasn’t sure what to expect when I reviewed the Brother SQ 9050 sewing and quilting machine. Quite frankly, this is the first combination sewing and quilting machine in this price range that I have ever had an opportunity to review.
Given the affordable price range, I actually had some misgivings about whether or not this machine could meet the expectations of machine quilting enthusiasts.
Brother SQ 9050 Overview
Brother SQ 9050 is a computerized sewing and quilting machine that packs 100 onboard stitches including 140 stitch function. It also has 8 different styles of 1-stop auto size buttonholes. It is equipped with a large backlit LCD display for easy viewing in low light conditions. The generously spacious working area is also bringtly lit with LED lights so that no shadows can interrupt working or accuracy. An accessory storage is provided in the device itself.
The first things I noticed on the Brother SQ 9050 were all of the tutorial decals and promotional stickers affixed to the front of the machine. The manufacturer certainly wanted to make sure that anyone who uses this machine knows all there is to know before even turning it on.
The lavender floral decoration makes you feel instantly at ease when you sit down in front of this lightweight ergonomically designed machine.
What are some alternatives for Brother SQ 9050?
Finding a good quilting machine at this price range is a tad bit difficult, which makes Brother SQ 9050 a very special machine for people who want to quilt without burning a hole in their pocket. Although not in the same price range, here are some alternative quilting machines that I would recommend.
The Juki HZL-F400 is an advanced, computerized sewing machine that is perfect for intermediate and experienced sewers. It has 230 built-in stitches, including a variety of straight stitches, zigzag stitches, and decorative stitches. It also has a 1-step buttonhole function, a needle threader, and an automatic thread cutter. The machine is easy to use and operate, with a large, easy-to-read LCD display and a simple control panel. The HZL-F400 is also lightweight and portable, making it easy to take with you to sewing classes or workshops.
If you have just stepped into sewing or are at an intermediate stage, then Brother XR3774 Sewing Machine is your call. The resource can spread sheer joy by offering 37 built-in stitches, a wide table for quilting, and an automatic needle threader. One of the best parts is that the machine is very light and its intuitive pattern makes it perfect for anyone, who does sewing as a hobby and wants a reliable machine to serve the purpose.
The Juki HZL-F300, the flagship of JUKI's Exceed series, seamlessly merges industrial sewing prowess with user-friendly design, making it a powerful workhorse for sewing and quilting projects. The box feed mechanism ensures precise stitching through various thickness levels, delivering impeccable results. With 106 stitch patterns, 3 fonts, and 16 automatic buttonholes controlled by electronic sensors, this machine offers a versatile range for creative endeavors. Its one-touch automatic threading and pedal-controlled thread cutting streamline the sewing process, allowing projects to flow smoothly. The LED light illuminates your path, enhancing visibility. The HZL-F300 stands as a reliable companion for both experienced sewists and beginners alike.
What features does the Brother SQ 9050 come with?
I must mention in this review that for a machine in its price class, the Brother SQ 9050 is loaded with features normally reserved for a much more costly machine:
- 140 utility and decorative stitch options
- 8 one step buttonholes
- 1 alphanumeric font for monogramming
- Easy to use on board stitch guide
- Adjustable stitch length and width
- Start/stop button
- Free arm
- Extension table
- Upper and lower thread sensors
- Automatic needle threader
- Bright on-board LED lighting
- Backlit LCD display
- Seam guide on needle plate
- On board accessory storage
Working on the Brother SQ 9050
As with any other sewing machine, the first things you must do when preparing to sew are wind the bobbin and thread the machine. Well, even with all of the instructional on-board decals, graphics and written instructions, I’ll have you know that winding the bobbin on this one was more than a notion.
Winding the bobbin on the Brother SQ 9050 should have been as simple and easy as it looks in all those pictures provided by the manufacturer. For some reason, the thread would start winding on the bobbin and then drop off the bobbin and wind itself around the spindle underneath.
After several attempts, I actually considered winding the bobbin by hand just to get through the review. However, I am not one to easily give up on anything as mundane as winding a simple bobbin; so I continued to work with it until the thread finally stayed in place long enough for the bobbin to be filled half way.
The Brother SQ 9050 comes with a drop in bobbin, but this terminology may be a bit deceiving. You can’t simply drop this one in like you do on some machines. When I followed the instructions on the diagram, however, I did not encounter any of the challenges I had with winding the bobbin.
I am not pleased, however, with the fact that the small clear plastic bobbin cover is completely detachable. It’s entirely too easy to lose something this small in a busy sewing room.
On the other hand, however, I am happy to report that the upper threading process was infinitely easier. Once the upper thread and bobbin were in place, I was able to get down to the business of testing a few of the 100 on-board stitch selections.
Selecting the stitches was easier than many of the other sewing machines in its price range that I have reviewed. The stitch selection guide consists of two separate panels. The first one is a display of 100 separate utility and decorative stitch options with a numerical code assigned o each one.
A panel flips up to reveal the entire alphabet in upper case block letters, each letter with an assigned numerical code. A backlit LED screen situated above the stitch selection guide displays the stitch number as well as the stitch length and width settings.
Four separate toggle switches control the stitch selection, width and length settings. Next to the LED screen is a tiny touch pad that allows you to move between utility stitches and the alphanumeric setting.
The utility stitches were clean, sturdy and perfectly formed. When it came to the some of the decorative stitch options, however, I found that the condensed stitches were not as tightly formed as I prefer.
Switching from the utility and decorative stitch options to the alphanumeric stitches is as easy as touching the appropriate area on the touchpad. Once the letter is selected, the stitch length switch is used to adjust the size of the letters or numbers while the stitch width switch controls the number of times the letter or number is repeated.
The accessories are stored inside a compartment that is removed to gain access to the free arm. It must also be removed in order to attach the extension table. The one and only hindrance if was able to find with that entire procedure is that when the plastic pouch containing the accessories is inside the compartment, it is a bit difficult to put it back in place without manipulating it.
I like the idea of having a separate pouch for the accessories. It helps keep everything together, but it is easier to slide the unit back onto the sewing machine without it. I suggest that the manufacturers consider a slight redesign of the unit so that it is large enough to accommodate the pouch.
Which fabrics work on the Brother SQ 9050?
| Fabrics that work | Fabrics that don’t work |
|---|---|
| Natural fibers/cotton-linen-wool Fine fabrics/silk-satin-taffeta/velvet Synthetic fabrics/blends-rayon-polyester Upholstery Knits(Medium to heavyweight only) | Leather/suede Fur Reptile skin Canvas/Twill Plastic/Rubber Extra thick fabrics or multiple layers |
What accessories does the Brother SQ 9050 come with?
I must admit, I was quite impressed with the accessories that were included with the Brother SQ 9050 when I opened it for reviewing. One normally finds an accessory package like this on more costly machines:
- 10 presser feet
- Buttonhole
- Button
- Overcastting
- Zipper
- Monogram
- Blind stitch
- Walking
- Quilting (2)
- Zigzag
- Twin needle
- Extra needles (2 packs)
- Bobbins
- Seam ripper
- Screw driver
- Quilting guide
- Eyelet punch
- Owner’s manual (2 – 1 in English and 1 in Spanish)
- Quick start guide (2)
- Soft sided accessories case
- Lint brush
Owner’s manual
How to maintain the Brother SQ 9050?
| 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 | Yes |
| Service by sewing machine repair professional | No | No | Yes | No |
Summary: Brother SQ 9050 review
When it’s all said and done, the Brother SQ 9050 is possibly the best sewing machine in the low end price range that I have reviewed thus far. That, however, is not great accomplishment. In my opinion, any sewing machine that comes with a bobbin mechanism that is as challenging as this one should not be considered too seriously.
If you encounter the challenges I did with winding the bobbin, you might just get frustrated enough to decide to put the machine aside and do something else.
If, however, you can overcome this challenge, and depending upon how much you intend to actually sew on this machine you might just like it. Because of the bobbin issue, I hesitate to recommend the Brother SQ 9050 for beginners – especially for children.
The stitch quality and ease of selecting stitches, as well as the access to a start/stop button, automatic needle threader and variable speed slider at your fingertips are all definite advantages.
Taking these features into account along with the problematic bobbin winder, one must simply decide which is more important… a not so perfect bobbin winder or some great conveniences that are not usually available on a sewing and quilting machine in this price category.
One other thing that you may want to consider is the fact that this is machine is very light. This is a wonderful advantage for someone who must move it around regularly, especially if they are challenged with even the mildest case of arthritis or neck, wrist or shoulder pain issues.
However, I can’t help but wonder how long a machine that weighs less than 10 pounds will really be able to stand up to the drudgery of working on large quilt projects. If you decide to add this one to your sewing room, I recommend it only for the novice machine quilter.
The Brother SQ 9050 is probably a good machine for learning machine quilting techniques; but I think anyone who purchases it will be in the market for another machine within a very short time.
Brother SQ 9050 Review
Summary
The Brother SQ 9050 is a computerized sewing machine that is perfect for beginners and hobbyists. It has 100 built-in stitches, including a variety of straight stitches, zigzag stitches, and decorative stitches. It also has 55 alphanumeric stitches for basic monogramming and 8 styles of one-step auto-size buttonholes.
The SQ 9050 also has a number of features that make it easy to use, such as the push-button stitch selection and the large, easy-to-read LCD display. It also has a number of advanced features, such as the automatic needle threader and the free arm.
The SQ 9050 is a great choice for beginners and hobbyists who are looking for a 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.
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Happy Stitching.
After discovering what I did wrong in winding the bobbin , I had no trouble, you must turn the bobbin clockwise one the spindle pushing into the small round cradle and u will hear a small click, now u are ready to wind your bobbin. I had this machine back in the day when we had to make our own dress in home ec , I might have passed. I love the way that I can slow the speed of the machine down. I really have no other problems with this machine,
I have a Brother SQ9050 sewing machine I want to do a straight satin stich but can’t figure out how. Can anyone help with this? I use this stich all the time.
Hi, Peggy –
Thank you for visiting Sewing Insight.
The way to achieve a straight satin stitch on your Brother SQ 9050 is to set your machine for a simple zigzag stitch then adjust your stitch length to its shortest setting.
Happy Stitching.
I got this machine from my husband for out 4th anniversary… i don’t have any problems never did and i have had it for almost a year now and i use it every day… The bobbin is not that hard to wind easy easy easy….i have stitched everything on this machine feathers too for my kids Halloween costume i have done fur leather i don’t know why you are experiencing problems if i was you i would contact brother and see what they say..
This model jams with the hand wheel stuck after 1 yr and 3 mths, past its 1 year parts+labor warranty. Still in the shop.
I have had 2 machines do this and think my 3rd is gonna do it as well. Brother has sent replacements each time but this is utterly a shame.
I have a SQ9050.
PROS: It sews well and is relatively easy to use. It’s the first sewing machine that I’ve owned that has needle threader and drop in bobbin…truly enjoy those features. It has multiple speeds which is really nice.
CONS: The lighting could be better. Due to the lightweight it gets pushed around. I have tried a few times working with twin needles and end of breaking them and not getting the job done. For some reason the machine does not seem to have the push to go through the slightest bit of thickness when using twin needle. I dislike the way the throat plate goes together. Being half metal and half plastic it can be a bit annoying getting it properly seated once you’ve taken it off. Storage compartment is a joke.
It comes with built in alphabet and special character stitches which work but they’re not all that great looking. I have an embroidery machine so I don’t use them.
Overall: The SQ9050 does what I need it to do for the most part. By today’s standards, I think it’s good quality for the money. I paid $240 plus tax at Walmart. I first started sewing on an old Singer treadle machine and worked my way up through the years on various mechanical machines. This is the first computerized machine that I’ve owned. If I had it to do over again, I’d spend a little more and get a heavier machine.
I am about to pick up the brother sq9050 at Walmart….I am wondering if anyone can tell me where to buy the darning (free motion) foot for this machine and which one is best…I’ve read that the plastic allows for more visibility is best?? Thanks!!
When I purchased my SQ9050, it came with a free motion quilting foot so don’t buy one before you check the accessories that come with it. Go check page 8 of User Guide for various included accessories at:
http://download.brother.com/welcome/doch000735/sq90xr95ug04en.pdf
Mine came with darning foot, so check you accessories. I love my little SQ-9050, had mine almost 3 years issue free and used it pretty heavily the first year
Does this machine actually come with owners manual and computer disc as shown above? The only instructions that came with mine were for the platform extension. When I bought this it was factory sealed. Sorry to say I had this for over a year before even opening due to one family health crisis after another. Who do I need to contact to see about getting these? Thanks!
I love my Brother SQ9050. I have had it for 3 yrs. Taken only to clean every year. I quilt on small projects only because I do not like to handle big quilts. I found this to be an excellent machine. I have another smaller Brother and i use this one when the other is in shop getting cleaned. I recommend a Brother to anyone that is looking for a great machine.
I bought my plastice one at Walmart and love it. It is very handy. I have had my machine for about 2 years and now it just continually locks up on me. Headed to shop for repair. Hope it doesn’t cost more to fix than I paid for it.
I love this machine….BUT, how do you increase the font size on the monogramming? Has anyone figured this one out. Please email me if you can help!!
Select one of the six fonts. Prior to selecting the first letter of the word or name, you have the choice of L M S.(Large, Medium, Small). If you want bigger than Large you could try going into Adjust menu, select SIZE and play with it there. I’ve never tried it but I don’t think the results will be that great. There are limitations to this machine.
Cathy…so sorry re previous answer to you question. I just realized you were talking about the sewing machine. I have both the sewing machine and Brother embroidery machine and I gave you answers for my Embroidery machine. I do not think that you can change the font sizes on the SQ9050. I have tried using the fonts on this machine and never impressed with them so I stick to using my Embroidery machine. Sorry.
I am having trouble making the buttonhole feature work properly. I have read the book and watched the video. It will only sew one direction, then it balls up and will not go any further.
Mine is doing the same thing, and my feed dogs don’t feed the fabric like it should. ( not at all)
I love my SQ9050. I am a self-taught quilter and do a lot of quilting these days. Although I’m not a professional I would recommend this machine to someone like me. I LOVE that the quilting foot and walking foot came with the machine. If you separated the price of the machine from the presser feet not normally standard my machine ended up costing me less than $100.
I am buying one that is used works fine but has no presser feet or accessories. They are asking 150 im going to get them down to 100. But where can i buy everything that fits this exact model. I havent had much luck searching online
Mine is 2+ years old and bought it for approx $230 in Walmat. If this is coming with no feet I would try and get it for less than the ask of $150. This is a good machine. I’ve had no problems with it other than trying to use a twin needle. I’m not a quilter but I’ve done a couple of small child quilts and because of it’s lightweight it kept moving on me. If you do a lot of quilting then I would go for a heavier machine. However, my son, built me a sewing centre and now my machine is recessed into the cabinet which solves the problem. Don’t sweat getting feet for this machine. Go to Ebay and search for Brother Sewing Machine Feet. I bought an entire Janome 32 pc set for around $20 directly from China. They’re all good & work great. You will have a wait for them to arrive. I think I waited 3 or 4 weeks but it is such a big savings from having to buy them individually. Hope this helps.
I have this model sewing machine and I loved it. But today when I turned it on the stitch selection window is blank. I can’t get it to work. Anyone know how to fix this?
I have this machine and I love it. I have no problem freehand quilting on this sewing machine, with that said the smaller the quilt the easier it is, the bigger it is much harder but it can be done if you know what your doing it can be done. I have had mine for about 3 or 4 years now and it works just like it did brand new. I do recommend this sewing machine for anyone who wants to learn or do small projects.
My husband purchase one of these for an anniversary gift several years ago. He got it at Walmart off the clearance rack (I was with him and approved lol). He laughed when the cashier asked if he wanted the extended warranty, telling her that, if it was going to break, it would be well within the first week under my “abnormally heavy use”. Well, I still have the machine 6 years later. And it still works, and I still use it for piecing quilt blocks, mending, tons of charity projects, etc. I routinely make it sew decorative stitches across double layers of fleece (scarves), straight stitch *4* layers of fleece (hat crowns) and probably some other things that it’s not really designed to do. I’ve never had it serviced because I’m too embarrassed to take my “Walmart special” into a dealer. Lol every time I think it’s just DONE, it turns out to be user error (like running out of bobbin thread, or forgetting to drop the presser foot). I solved the moving around problem (because it is so lightweight), by putting a piece of bubble textured drawer liner under it. My 8 and 9 year old boys can even use this machine on the middle speed. The only complaint I have is that the storage compartment is way to small for all of the things I’d like to fit into it, but we made a small pouch that I use to keep frequently used items at hand. 10/10 I’d buy it again 🙂
Can you tell me if there is a pressure foot adjustment on this sq 9050?
I am frustrated with this machine. I have had it under 5 years and used it for awhile with great results. I have had it serviced awhile back because the motor just whirred and wouldn’t sew. Now, about a year later, every time I try to sew or quilt, the bobbin keeps tangling up and stalling out. The error message says E6. I disassembled the bobbin case, etc. and cleaned thoroughly. Still the same problem. I’m very sad. Rather than spend almost $100 to get it serviced again, I’m better off buying another sewing machine and NOT a Brother.
How big is the throat size on sq9050