Looking for a versatile sewing and embroidery machine? The Brother NQ3550W embroidery machine might just be the perfect fit. With its ability to handle both sewing and embroidery projects, this machine offers a range of features that make it stand out.
From a large embroidery area to wireless connectivity, the NQ3550W is designed for creative minds who want flexibility and ease. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced, its user-friendly touchscreen and automatic features make stitching smoother and more enjoyable.
In this review, we’ll cover its benefits, limitations, and why it could be a great addition to your craft space.
Review of Brother NQ3550W Sewing and Embroidery Machine
Features of the Brother NQ3550W Sewing and Embroidery Machine
It offers versatile stitching, a large embroidery area, and easy-to-use features, making it ideal for a variety of creative projects. Here’s a look at its standout features.
Stitching Capabilities
- Sewing Speed up to 850 SPM
- 291 Built-in Stitches
- Adjustable Stitch Width up to 7 mm
- Adjustable Stitch Length up to 5 mm
- One-step Buttonholes
- Free Arm for Cylindrical Sewing
- Automatic Needle Threader
- Adjustable Tension System
Embroidery Capabilities
- 258 Built-in Designs, including 140 frame patterns and 13 fonts
- 6″ x 10″ Embroidery Area
- 3.67″ Sew Smart Color LCD Display with 260,000+ Colors
- USB Port for Design Imports
- On-Screen Design Editing
Enhanced Features
- Knee Lift for Hands-Free Presser Foot Lifting
- Start/Stop Button for Pedal-Free Sewing
- Automatic Thread Cutter
- F.A.S.T. Bobbin Winding System
Embroidery Digitizing Services
Stitching Capabilities
This machine offers a range of stitching options to bring your creative ideas to life easily.
1. Sewing Speed up to 850 SPM
With a sewing speed of up to 850 stitches per minute (SPM), this machine is fast, making it perfect for those who want to complete their projects quickly. High speed helps you finish tasks faster without losing the quality of each stitch, making it a great choice for both simple and detailed sewing.
2. 291 Built-in Stitches
The Brother NQ3550W comes with 291 built-in stitches, which means you have plenty of stitch styles to choose from. Whether you’re adding decorative touches, creating patterns, or just sewing seams, this variety makes the machine versatile and suitable for all kinds of projects.
3. Adjustable Stitch Width up to 7 mm
You can adjust the width of your stitches up to 7 mm, allowing you to create wide, bold stitches, which is especially useful for decorative stitching and appliqué. This flexibility makes it easy to personalize your designs.
4. Adjustable Stitch Length up to 5 mm
The adjustable stitch length, up to 5 mm, lets you choose longer or shorter stitches based on your fabric and project type. Longer stitches are ideal for basting, while shorter stitches work well for delicate and detailed areas.
5. One-step Buttonholes
The machine creates buttonholes in a single step, making it easy to add neat, consistent buttonholes to clothing and accessories. With this feature, you don’t have to worry about measuring or sewing multiple steps manually.
6. Free Arm for Cylindrical Sewing
The free arm design makes it easy to sew cylindrical items like sleeves, cuffs, and pant legs. This feature is perfect for sewing small, circular areas, giving you a compact workspace that’s easy to maneuver.
7. Automatic Needle Threader
The automatic needle threader takes the hassle out of threading the needle, saving you time and reducing eye strain. Simply follow the easy steps, and the machine will thread the needle for you.
8. Adjustable Tension System
The adjustable tension system allows you to change the thread tension based on your fabric and stitch type. This helps you achieve the best possible stitch quality, ensuring your threads don’t bunch up or become too loose.
Embroidery Capabilities
Brother NQ3550W Sewing & Embroidery Machine brings embroidery projects to life with a range of built-in designs and advanced customization options.
1. 258 Built-in Designs
With 258 built-in embroidery designs, including 140 frame patterns and 13 fonts, you have plenty of design options for adding unique details to your projects. Whether you’re creating personalized gifts or enhancing fabric items, the variety of designs offers endless possibilities.
2. 6" x 10" Embroidery Area
The large 6″ x 10″ embroidery area provides ample space for creating bigger designs, which is ideal for larger projects like quilt blocks, jackets, and tote bags. This extra room allows you to stitch more intricate patterns without resizing or adjusting the design.
3. 3.67" Sew Smart Color LCD Display
The vibrant Sew Smart LCD screen shows your designs in clear, rich colors. This display allows you to preview designs, make edits, and adjust details with precision, making it easier to create your embroidery exactly the way you envision it.
4. USB Port for Design Imports
The USB port allows you to import custom designs, adding flexibility and personalization to your embroidery projects. You can download designs from the internet or create your own, then simply transfer them to the machine to expand your creative options.
5. On-Screen Design Editing
This machine’s on-screen design editing feature lets you adjust, resize, rotate, and mirror your designs before starting embroidery. You can make quick edits right on the display, ensuring your design fits perfectly on your fabric.
Enhanced Features
Brother NQ3550W’s additional features make sewing and embroidery even easier and more convenient for all users.
1. Knee Lift for Hands-Free Presser Foot Lifting
The knee lift allows you to raise and lower the presser foot with your knee, freeing up your hands to handle fabric. This feature is especially helpful for large projects, making it easier to keep your fabric steady while you sew.
2. Start/Stop Button for Pedal-Free Sewing
The start/stop button lets you sew without using a foot pedal, offering more control and comfort. It’s a great feature for beginners or anyone who prefers hands-free sewing, especially during long sewing sessions.
3. Automatic Thread Cutter
The automatic thread cutter trims the top and bottom threads with the press of a button, saving time and keeping your projects tidy. This feature eliminates the need for scissors after each seam or embroidery, making your workflow smoother.
4. F.A.S.T. Bobbin Winding System
The F.A.S.T. bobbin winding system makes winding your bobbins quicker and easier. You can wind a bobbin smoothly with minimal effort, so you spend less time preparing and more time sewing or embroidering.
How Much Does the Brother NQ3550W Machine Cost?
It is a mid-to-high-end model typically priced around $2,499.99, though prices can vary. Retailers often run promotions, bringing the cost down from its standard $3,999.99, and some even include added perks like bonus accessories or rebates.
For the best deal, it’s worth exploring various stores, as seasonal discounts or bundled offers may further enhance value. Overall, the machine’s price reflects its comprehensive sewing and embroidery capabilities, positioning it as a solid choice for those looking to invest in advanced features and quality.
Benefits and Limitations of the NQ3550W Brother Embroidery Machine
It has both benefits and limitations to consider.
Benefits
- Versatile Functionality: Combines sewing and embroidery with 291 stitches and 258 designs.
- User-Friendly: 3.67″ color touchscreen for easy design navigation and editing.
- Wireless Connectivity: Design transfer via Wi-Fi, no USB needed.
- Large Embroidery Area: 6″ x 10″ field for bigger projects.
- Automatic Features: Thread cutter and height adjuster for consistent stitching.
- Comprehensive Accessories: Comes with presser feet and embroidery frames.
Limitations
- Pricey: Higher cost may deter casual users.
- Heavy and Large: Difficult to move and store.
- Learning Curve: Advanced features take time to master.
- Limited Designs: May require extra purchases for more designs.
- Tech Dependence: Wireless setup might be challenging for some.
- Maintenance: Regular upkeep is needed for optimal performance.
Accessories Included with NQ3550W Brother Machine
- Zigzag Foot (J Foot)
- Monogramming Foot (N Foot)
- Overcasting Foot (G Foot)
- Zipper Foot (I Foot)
- Buttonhole Foot (A Foot)
- Blind Stitch Foot (R Foot)
- Button Fitting Foot (M Foot)
- Embroidery Foot (U Foot)
- Open Toe Foot
- Free-Motion Open Toe Quilting Foot (O Foot)
- Non-Stick Foot
- Stitch Guide Foot (P Foot)
- Adjustable Zipper/Piping Foot
- Knee Lifter
- Foot Controller
- Standard Bobbin Case
- Alternate Bobbin Case
Embroidery Frames
- 6″ x 10″ Embroidery Frame
- 5″ x 7″ Embroidery Frame
Additional Items
- Grid Sheet Set
- Quick Reference Guide
- Embroidery Design Guide
- Soft Cover
- Operation Manual
Embroidery Digitizing Services
Bottom Line
The Brother NQ3550W embroidery machine is a powerful companion for creative projects, seamlessly blending sewing and embroidery with user-friendly features and a spacious design area. Its versatility makes it ideal for hobbyists and professionals alike. However, achieving the best results also depends on quality digitized designs.
That’s where EMdigitizing comes in. We specialize in delivering high-quality digitizing services at competitive rates with guaranteed precision and a lightning-fast turnaround. Our preview option allows you to review your design before stitching, ensuring it’s exactly what you need.
Plus, as a first-time customer, you’ll receive an incredible 50% discount. Let EMdigitizing bring your embroidery ideas to life with ease and expertise!
FAQ's
It offers a spacious 6″ x 10″ embroidery area, perfect for creating large and detailed designs with ease.
To thread the NQ3550W, simply follow the threading path marked on the machine, making sure the thread goes through all necessary guides and reaches the needle correctly.
Switching between sewing and embroidery modes is easy on the NQ3550W. Just press the “Embroidery” or “Sewing” option on the touchscreen and follow the on-screen instructions.
