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Simplicity 3129 Review (2023 Update)
Note from the Editor: This Simplicity 3129 review was originally written in 2013, and has been revised and updated in 2023. We have added similar alternatives such as Janome 4120QDC, Brother SE1900, and Juki HZL-F600.
When I reviewed the Simplicity 3129 at Laura’s Sewing and Vacuum in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, it was easy to see it won recognition as one of Consumers’ Digest’s Best Buys in the computerized sewing machine category. This affordable, user friendly computerized sewing machine has 129 on board decorative and utility stitch options and the quality of each of the stitches I sampled was excellent.
Simplicity 3129 Overview
Simplicity 3129 is a computerized sewing and quilting machine that comes with a monochromatic LCD display sized 2.0” x 0.7”, where you can access on-screen help with understanding how the UI works. You also have 10 KeyStitch Select, a Simplicity exclusive function. Work area on this machine is well lit with 2 LEDs. The device also has an advanced needle threading system and the thread tension is manual. Bobbin winding speed can be adjusted. It has the perfect group of features for intermediated. The speed slider allows speed to be controlled easily. It also comes with a carrying case that makes transport easy.
At first, I wasn’t certain if I was looking at a Brother sewing machine or a Simplicity. The Brother name stands out while the Simplicity brand name seems to be buried in a red background above the window where the monochromatic LCD display appears.
No doubt, the people at Brother want to make sure consumers know that the Simplicity sewing machine line is now owned and manufactured by Brother and have all of the quality and superior workmanship that Brother sewing machines are known for. On the right side of the machine, beneath the LCD display window are a series of buttons that control the stitch selection process… menu button, stitch length and width adjustment buttons and utility stitch selection buttons. Across the top of the machine head are the function buttons… start/stop, reverse stitch, needle up/down, automatic thread cutter and the variable speed control slider.
What are the features on Simplicity 3129?
- 129 decorative and utility stitch options
- 10 one step buttonholes
- 3 alphanumeric fonts
- Adjustable stitch length and width
- Maximum sewing speed – 850 stitches per minute
- My Custom Stitch memory
- Adjustable presser foot pressure
- Twin needle setting
- On board accessory storage
- Free arm
Working on the Simplicity 3129
Threading the Simplicity 3129 and winding the bobbin are made easy with the on board decals showing you each step of the way.
The automatic needle threader is slightly different from the needle threaders on other sewing machines, but very easy to master.
The needle threading system on the Simplicity 3129 is, to me, faster and more reliable than lots of other automatic needle threaders I have encountered. Follow the numerical threading guides through step number 6 as usual. Step number 7 guides the thread around to the left side of the machine. There is a tab on the upper left side.
When you push that tab down, the needle is threaded in a snap. I tried this two or three additional times and the automatic needle threader worked perfectly each and every time. There is a stitch selection menu button on the right side of the machine beneath the LCD screen that allows you to select utility, decorative or monogram stitches.
Once you get to the stitch menu you want, you will see two numbers. The upper number is the stitch number in that particular menu, the lower number is the total number of stitches available in that category. To get to the stitch you want, use the directional buttons to toggle left or right until the stitch you want is highlighted, then press the ‘OK’ button.
I sampled stitch options in each category and am very pleased to report that every single stitch I sampled came out perfectly.
I changed stitch length and width on both utility and decorative stitches, and the results were the same… perfect stitches every time.
What are some alternatives for Simplicity 3129?
We have reviewed several commercial sewing machines similar to the Simplicity 3129 and here are some we highly recommend.
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.
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.
Which fabrics work on the Simplicity 3129?
| 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 | Fur Reptile skin Canvas/Twill Plastic/Rubber Extra thick fabrics or multiple layers Leather/suede |
What are the accessories that come with Simplicity 3129?
- 9 snap on presser feet
- Buttonhole foot
- Overcasting foot
- Monogramming foot
- Zipper foot
- Zigzag foot
- Blind stitch foot
- Button fitting foot
- Walking foot
- Quilting foot
- Extension table
- Accessory pouch containing
- Seam ripper
- Needle set
- Twin needle
- Cleaning brush
- Grid sheet
- Eyelet punch
- Screwdrivers (2)
- Spool caps (3)
- Extra spool pin
- Hard cover
- Owner’s manual
How to maintain the Simplicity 3129?
| 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 |
Simplicity 3129 Summary
The sewing machine industry has finally figured out that people want affordable, user friendly, high quality sewing machines for home use. After all, this is how the home sewing machine industry got its start. The Simplicity 3129 is an excellent computerized sewing machine.
You cannot plug it into your computer and there isn’t an automatic tension adjustment feature, but anyone who wants a good quality basic computerized sewing machine with lots of stitch options and superior stitch quality, will be very happy with this one. In my opinion, computer connectivity is only truly useful if you are one of those people who likes to use a lot of machine embroidery options.
For straight sewing and machine quilting tasks, the Simplicity 3129 is an excellent choice. The standard extension table makes working on very large sewing projects easy and the free arm gives you added flexibility when working on very small projects. While I don’t especially recommend the Simplicity 3129 for use by beginners, there are always exceptions. Computer savvy teens and adults who have never before touched a sewing machine might do quite well with this machine.
It may even be possible for some middle school students to master the Simplicity 3129 with close supervision. I do not recommend this machine for use by children still in elementary school, or anyone who is challenged by machines with lots of buttons or too many options to choose from.
The Simplicity 3129 is truly portable. It is full sized and light enough to carry to class or Sewing Guild meetings and even to the dorm for those college students who like to sew. The Simplicity 3129 is available only through authorized Brother Innovis dealers, which is an added plus because anyone who purchases this machine has the benefit of personalized service and even classes if and when they are necessary.
Simplicity 3129 Review
Summary
The Simplicity 3129 is a computerized sewing machine that is designed for beginners and intermediate sewers. It has 29 built-in stitches, automatic needle threader, drop-in bobbin, sewing lettering, one-step buttonhole, speed control slider, LED light, and carrying case. It is easy to use and has a good value for the price. However, it does not have as many stitches or as much power as some other machines, so it may not be the best choice for heavy-duty sewing projects.
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Happy Stitching.
I have this machine and absolutely love it! I only started sew about 5 months ago. I had a machine passed down from my mil, but it didn’t work and I wanted to gew, so my grandma got this machine for me, and ended up getting the same one for herself. It was the best machine for ,e to learn on! I use it daily and make my son clothes and diapers, and myself and hubby things as well. A great machine. Thanks for this review!
I’m shopping for a new machine and looked at this at the sewing store. Thanks for your remarks. I currently have an old Supermatic Elna from the (60’s), I seem to knock it out of timing frequently. Will this happen to the SB3129 too. I would like to do quilts and maybe quilting, will this machine be good for that?
I own this machine. My mother purchased one for herself and one for me. I have been quilting on it; but, I have to say that I’m more of an artist and not a traditional sewer. I’d consider myself an advanced beginner; but, rather rough on machines. I just want it to do what I want it to do with little fuss. This machine is dreamy. I have a fancier Husquvarna that is sitting off to the side since I received this Brother. It works really smoothly and is easy to use. Much of it is fairly intuitive if you’ve ever used a machine before. With my Husquvarna I had to have the manual sitting next to me at all times.
I love it. I’ve made a few quilts and sewn some rather thick materials and have encountered no troubles. My mother loves hers too and while she encountered one problem, a quick call to the store where she bought it had her realizing that she had improperly put things back together after cleaning out the bobbin area.
I’m looking for a new machine and these reviews are a big help. I did notice that the demin is not in the list of fabrics at all at times so i don’t know if some machines are able to handle it.
I always look at this since I’m planning to make a lot jeans for myself.
A few months before you posted this I began a couple of denim “quilt-as-you-go” rag quilts; the two quilts I made were from re-purposed denim jeans bought at second-hand stores layered with cotton duck weight fabric. While I personally would not consider making jeans on this machine, I can tell you that the SB3129 handled well with the heavy duty dynamics of both the denim and duck cloth. If you have not done so yet, make sure you make the appropriate adjustments to the thread tension and presser foot, and also use the appropriate denim needle. Side note, I also used an upholstery needle to sew the denim rag quilts; it was useful when sewing through four layers of denim and duck cloth. Hope this info helps you.
hi there,
i want to buy a sewing machine and was in search of some helpful reviews and came accross your website. i am already using an old edition of singer ‘golden girl’. it is living upto expectations even now. however i want some thing in between high end and simple type now. though passionate but sew as a hobby due to time constraint but like to create something different and better with embroidery. would you mind suggesting one that can appease both my skills and passion?
regards
afia shah