The Brother XL-3500 is a great basic sewing machine. I have had great luck with this sewing machine and have made anything from baby shoes, to quilts, to clothing. The settings are easily adjusted. I like all the different options I have for stiches. Some machines do have more but for people who are just doing basic sewing projects, this machine has all the stiches I would ever need. The feet are easy to change out. I have successfully added button holes and zippers using the included feet. I like that this sewing machine came with a small table that can be added to the sewing machine that expands the working area. It makes it easier to sew larger items such as quilts and baby blankets. It is a great machine for a great price and I have been happily using it for a few years now. I would definately recommend this machine to anyone who is looking for a great first sewing machine or anyone who just needs a basic sewing machine.

ltsmom

Hermon, ME

I bought the Brother XL-3500 sewing machine when I decided I was interested in doing some sewing myself. I have limited experience with any sewing machines and wasn't sure what to buy. I found a great deal on this and figured I would give it a shot. I definitely got lucky as it has been fantastic. It is easy to setup and run. There are piles of different options, stiches, you can vary all the sizes, the foot pedal is easy to use, you can even do some embroidery and fancier stitching if you have the skills. The light makes it easy to see what you're doing and so far I've had very good luck with the train pulling the fabric through well, even heavier fabrics. I've used a variety of threads and even with the cheaper threads it runs very well and hasn't snapped the thread or otherwise caused problems. I considered one of the dirty cheap introductory sewing machines, but I am very glad I spent a bit more on something with all the capabilities and features, it is easier to use than most and I'm never going to need a new one!!

clarinetb

Champaign, IL

I've had quite a few sewing machines, and I'm pretty harsh on them. I expect it to stand up to multiple layers of denim, and percale(yes sheets) and when this one withstood my mad costume sewing for last Hallowe'en I was impressed. I found it much heavier than the one previously(another brother). Definitely one I'll buy again.

wickedkisses

Atwater, CA

I purchased the Brother XL 3500 sewing machine refurbished at an online webstore. The price was pretty decent. Even though it was refurbished it came with a good warranty. What attracted me to this machine was that it is easy to use and the manual makes it very easy to understand. I am not an expert at sewing , so that was a very big plus. I enjoy sewing and this machine has made it a pleasurable experience. It is very handy. It is easy to set up and start sewing. The machine itself is very well built and sturdy. It is not flimsy. You can experiment with the different stitches. It is fun to use. It has 35 built in stitches. Another thing that is convenient about this brother sewing machine is that is lightweight. My mother has a very old, heavy sewing machine, and she always has to take out the heavy machine and set it up, and its just a hassle. With this model, it is very convenient not having to set up such a heavy machine. I would recommend this brother sweing machine.

starrocket77

Colton, CA