What do you think about the Brother Skitch PP1 embroidery machine and the fact that it's controlled by the Artspira app? *11/15/23 UPDATE:* Brother has just announced a change to the Artspira app! "Some of the feedback around Artspira was the inability to import your own designs in the FREE version of the app. We’ve heard from you and are actively updating Artspira to ensure all users can access this feature. So, starting on November 30th, users of the Free version of Artspira will be allowed to import any design and store up to 20 designs in Artspira (you can add and remove the 20 designs as you wish!). Artspira+ Subscription Plan users, the Paid version of Artspira, can store and import up to 100 designs. Basically, more storage!" *JOANN Fabrics* go.magik.ly/ml/1x1t4/ *Amazon* amzn.to/45TV0C1 *Best Buy* go.magik.ly/ml/1xh53/ Thank you for watching the videos I’ve done about machine embroidery! If you have additional questions, I first ask that you go through the playlist of previous vids as I may have answered it already. Because I’m *not* a sewing machine tech / expert I cannot provide 1-on-1 assistance with your machine or guide you through specific issues. Please reach out to the Brother Product Support Center. www.brother-usa.com/contact-us EMBROIDERY MACHINE SUPPLIES I USE: kit.co/sewingreport/machine-embroidery-brother-pe800 DISCLAIMER: This video and description contains affiliate links for several different programs. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
I like the machine. Controlling it with the app seems to be the way a lot of machines work like laser cutters. I love the free arm and the magnetic hoop. Will be nice to see if it can embroider dense designs. And how fast it is. Congratulations on this scoop! I've been looking for more info on this machine and your video is the first and very informative.
Thank you for your review. The concept seems interesting but I definitely won’t pay for a subscription to utilize features that should be standard (file transfers)
Honestly, video reviews like this help the buyer to be more aware of what they are getting into for any machine. There would have been no way for me to justify getting a Cricut Maker if they limited the upload to run it as a custom maker... (Still super disappointed they tried to limit access a year after I bought it). You 100% need to be able to USE machines otherwise it's just a fancy/expensive gimmick.... In Cricut's case, I use the programs I am comfortable with to create the files and their operation system is just for layout mostly. It would be the same for me on any embroidery machine if I'm able to get one that fits my needs.
I hear you about Cricut. I bought several of their original series of machines and was told they'd ALWAYS be cartridge based, or utilize the Cricut Gypsy device. Then we were told that using the app would always be optional. I also bought the combo print and cut Imagine machine. None of these are supported any longer. Needless to say, I switched to Silhouette machines, and I can still use the original machine I bought with their current software. And I don't have to be online to do it.
After Cricut anything that requires an app to use is not something I would buy. If my maker goes out I’ll end up getting a silhouette machine. I already have the silhouette business edition program for it, which I can use all of the functions without having to pay extra monthly for it.
I purchase the Skitch a week ago. To keep it short, I returned it. The app does allow you to upload files on the free version. Once I found that feature I was truly excited. The photo to embroidery feature was junk. Ultimately I returned it because I couldn’t get a single complete embroidery design on any other fabric other than standard cotton fabric. The hoop would kick out and 2 times the machine didn’t complete the design( was a preloaded design) not worth the money.
You were able to upload your own external embroidery files in the free version? I was *not* until I upgraded to the paid version. In some of Brother’s social media posts about the Skitch, people asked specifically about that and Brother admitted they would have to subscribe to Artspira+ in order to do that. EDIT: Any chance you might be in the 2-month free trial and that's why you haven't had to pay yet? Because both the ability to upload external files & Image to Embroidery are subscription-only features. support.brother.com/g/s/hf/mobileapp_info/artspira/plan/cmpr_pdf/artspira_plus_usa.pdf
If you are new to machine embroidery, don’t waste your money on this machine which will be fairly costly in the long run, and very limited on the sizes you can embroider. You’d be money ahead to purchase an actual entry level embroidery/combo sewing and embroidery machine to start out, and get more options on hoop sizes, better quality stitching, you can purchase quality digitized embroidery designs at multiple sites for little cost.
It’s pretty! Thank you for your honest review. I’ve been embroidering for a couple of years now, I have a single needle. That free arm option is nice, and the price point is not bad, I agree with you, the app and subscription sucks.
Thanks for this in-depth review. I’m not a fan of the subscription model unless it’s offering really great designs. I appreciate the work you do without being sponsored by them. My H just bought me a Brother SE625 for $150 at a pawn shop. I haven’t really played with the embroidery yet but love how it sews so far. This new funky coffee machine is only embroidery right? I’m probably not going to be buying this one. Thanks for the info!
LOL - I agree with you calling it a 'funky coffee machine'. One came up on my FaceBook MarketPlace feed and I got curious. When I enlarged the photo, I thought it was either a giant coffee machine or a bread maker.
They are really limiting their customer base by putting the ability to import your own designs behind a paywall. I agree that they would have more customer interest in a small free-arm machine if they offered that function in the free version of the app (or at least a discounted level of pay - $5/month or less). I wonder if they have locked it like this because the machine itself has stitching limitations, and the Artspira designs fall into certain specifications that are necessary to stitch correctly?
This is what cricut did and why several of my friends went to silhouette. I hadn’t bought mine yet but while researching, cricut went to a paid membership to import more than 10 designs. Big turn off for me and others.
I almost spent four biweekly payments on this machine. You have to have internet and a paid subscription in order to use this machine no thank you. So glad I watched this video
@TheMightyGinkgo you only need blue tooth to make it work but that means it has to be on your phone or tablet. Mine worked without wifi. Also per internet you can use without wifi.
Totally agree with you about the Artspira App. There are VERY FEW images on the app (even the paid images) that I am interested in utilizing. The images are very childish and elementary, and I wouldn’t pay even $1.99 a month to use them. That makes the Skitch a no-go for me.
I totally recommend the mighty hoops! I have a brother PRS100 and they are a game changer! Of the non brother brands, I think it’s the best magnetic hoop on the market. I do believe brother has bigger magnetic hoops just not in the US market. The only reason I know is because I saw them traveling abroad.
As a person who’s in his early 20’s the app thing is annoying! We hate that. We all know the companies love apps so they can track all your information even if you aren’t using them! I see a lot of potential in this machine but its flaw is annoying
This is a interesting machine; however the hoop size is small and that is very limited. The ability to download my own designs are very important to most who do embroiders. Thank you for your honest review of this machine.
I would have liked to see a denser finished product. I find the finished image to be somewhat flimsy. The magnetic hoop is a great feature. Thanks for this review. I'll wait for a more improved version.
I think you’re right your information is on point and I don’t feel that they should have control of what we want to put on our machines. Definitely reach out to them. If there’s anything I can do I can reach out as well. Give me some information I think more consumers doing that will change things. I love your videos .
The necessity of the app to operate and having to pay for a subscription to upload designs already have is a no go for me. It's like paying twice for designs I already have in order to use it. I also like having the option of using a 5x7 hoop for larger designs.
It would have been nice if they just figured out an update for those of us with machines that already have these capabilities to be able to use artspira, this reminds me of the he400 series machines they already sold, although the designs were 110% better! Thank you for diving in on this one and buying/trying!
I was so ready to go out and buy it until you said that you needed to use the app to run it and pay for the subscription. And the fact that I can’t transfer my own designs, turns me away. How disappointing! 🤨☹
$12.99 a month just to upload your own designs is a complete rip-off. I've been embroidering for about 10 years now and have bought two Babylocks and a Bernina. All three came with built-in designs and with all those machines and all those embroidery projects I've done over all those years, I've only used 1 built-in design and that was just once to test the machine after a service repair. The free arm isn't that big a deal to me. I just use a baby hoop and it's fine especially if you are limited to a 4x4 embroidery field. A 4x4 field is extremely limiting. I think it would be better to buy a good used machine from a reputable dealer for what you paid for this machine because at $12.99 a month, you're adding $156 a year to the cost. The magnetic hoop is nice but for what you paid for the subscription, you could easily buy a magnetic 4x4 hoop. I do very much appreciate you reporting on this machine and educating the public on both the pros and cons.
Thanks for doing this. There is nothing on it anywhere other then the cryptic videos from Brother. i think it would be great in a school maker space to make patches.
Thank you for the honest review. It was really helpful. I personally would not buy this machine. I will not support a machine that's useless if you don't have the app. Like another person commented, what happens when the app is no longer supported 5 yrs from now? 3 of my 4 machines, I've had for more than 20 years and they still work as well as they did when I bought them new. I doubt anyone will say the same for this one 20 yrs from now. I understand today's machines are more expensive because of all the fancy electronics (which are nice) but $500 is still a lot of money to spend on a machine that could be rendered "a brick" without the app. And to have to pay for their premium version of the app in order to create your own designs, is a complete deal breaker as well.
This would be a big, fat NO. It seems companies are trying to enforce the mantra "you will own nothing and be happy". If you can't use this independently without controlling you from the internet, forget it. I have HUNDREDS of embroidery files for my current machine, which sux cuz I am limited to 20,000 stitches max - which was NEVER indicated in any of the product documents - which is dumb for a 6"x10" sewing field. I want to replace with a Bernina (50k stitch max), the cost is the issue. PS. My Joann is a ghost town. They have not yet cut store hours due to number of employees, but there were maybe 4 (2 cut counter, 2 register) and stock laying around in boxes, everywhere. I really want to support them, bcuz I HATE buying stuff from the internet. I mean if you need thread or a sewing machine needle and have to pay for shipping AND wait 3 days to receive it in the middle your project....ugh.
I don't like when companies want you to spend big bucks for their products but then also have to pay a monthly fee to use it. I do think the price is very high compared to a Brother 4x4 or 5x7 hoops. They had them at the expo for under 3 and 400 last month. and they do more. Brother's new printer is the same way. You have to have the app and the cost of the fabric to print on is very expensive. Thank you so much for this very informative video.
I need some help here, I purchased the day it came out, I have literally broken 5 needle already, also the bobbin piece come lose, I don’t know if it’s because it’s my own design or if it’s because I’m trying to embroider a polyester kids shirt, but it is real frustrating rn.
WOW! This made me decide whether or not I'm buying this. The decision is NO! Can't believe you get charged to upload your own designs plus having to control it through an app. No thanks! - Thanks for doing this vid.
I’m so glad I found this review! It’s on sale at Joanns and I was gonna purchase it today. I have a Bernina but it’s old so I want a new machine and thought this was it. The small hoop and subscription is a no for me. Thank you!
The digital app reminds me a lot of the Cricut app along with the way it makes you send the design to the machine and then hit a button on the machine to make it go. I have a feeling that’s where they got the idea for their app.
As always Jen … You been the FACTS 🫡 I’ve been a Brother lover for a long time and indeed I’ve witnessed the change of a growing company. Which reminds me when I bought one of the Brother ScanNCut. It needed you to buy a card to use wireless. But you would not be able to transfer it to another machine if yours been unused 😢 I will mentor this new machine to see what it becomes😊 FIESTA 🎉
Those free designs look like clipart and sad towel embroidery designs from the 90s. 😬I can see some people wanting the emojis even if I do not personally want to embroider emojis. Despite that, I think I want this machine. 😂The main things that are holding me back are the longevity of the machine and having to pay for the subscription. I didn't like the look of the paid-for designs I spotted in your video either. What is your impression of the design options available in the subscription? Looking forward to seeing what embroidery project you will do next on the machine. I would love to embroider hats (dad caps, bucket hats etc) if I had the machine myself.
You are doing us a great benefit by purchasing it, though I know you are incredibly thrifty and it probably hurts to have to pay over $144/year just to use it - plus the cost of the machine initially. I can't see that the older generation will be thrilled about the subscription model, so they must be trying to target the younger set (like you) who are used to a subscription model for just about everything.
I think it’s a terrible idea - phone apps to me are a transitory thing…a couple of OS updates and the app might not work. Think of computerized machines that can’t be updated anymore, or use older things like cartridges or other memory cards. It’s truly built in obsolescence at its most money-grubbing!
I’m all about Wi-Fi but not being able to be use any of the thousands of designs I have is a turn-off. Plus the hoop is too small. Like the magnetic part of the hoop. Why did Brother develop this machine? Is it easier to do things like caps?
Thank you for this review. I want to print my own designs . Almost $550 a machine + monthly sub+ is an app that in 2 years MAX will not be updated anymore. I dont see my self buying this......Thank you for the review.
I really thought this was something I had to have but am having second thoughts. I thought I could take it with me on trips where I go to sew. I have many designs that I have bought over the years and don't think I should have to pay to use the, The free designs are very lack luster. I didn't see any I would use. thank you for your review. I think I will wait for an improved edition.
27 yr old here, i absolutely do not like controlling it from my phone, much easier from my machine! The subscription and relying on the internet sucks too, this could have a lot of potential for being an entry machine but not with all of that junk
Cool video. Thank you. Imo if I can’t work on my designs from a computer I probably wont buy it. Lol I don’t use my phone to create things. Lol not my cup of tea😅
Those the free arm is small for kids clothes because I have the SE1900 and I can’t embroidery cuff for kid or groups they make it square and it should be kind of rounded
I have three Brother sewing/embroidery machines, one embroidery only machine, and a Singer sewing/embroidery machine. I was curious to see what this one did, although I'm not interested in purchasing. I was hoping it would have a smaller footprint. I agree that working from an app would be different for experienced users.
Did they miss how Cricut users (myself included) revolted when they were going to force us into a subscription. Cricut decided against it. I was thinking this machine wasn't half bad if not for the subscription model. Thanks for calling that out here.
Interesting machine. I am disappointed in the news about the Artspira App. I’ve only ever hear from Brother that it’s a free app, not mentioning that there’s a paywall. Obviously I haven’t tried it myself. BTW, Brother does make larger magnetic hoops. They’re pricey, but my friend got a 5x7 for her PE770, and she loves it. I want to get the upgrade kit for my Stellaire XJ1. It comes with a huge magnetic hoop! I also want to get the magnetic 5x7 hoop for my PE800, which can also be used on the Stellaire. I’ve heard once you go magnetic, you (I) won’t want to go back! Thank you for your testing and showing this new machine. 💗
Oh my I just looked up the Brother frame and the 5x7 inch costs $300!!!! Unfortunately, it's also the type where the top part is not just one piece but six separate magnetic pieces. I'd really prefer a design with just one top piece and one bottom piece. The dime Snap Hoop Monster frame looks more appealing but even that one is over $150 and has some questionable Amazon reviews, which is why I haven't tried it out. I really do like the Skitch's magnetic hoop.
I can totally see sewing machine companies start to offer some type of monthly subscription plan to cover repairs & maintenance as sort of an extended warranty / service plan like Best Buy and Apple.
Machine embroidery isn't my thing and I don't do apps so it's not for me; however, I think there is a market for this and the subscription. This machine is a good price point compaired to the other single needle machine that was over $1,000 (I think that was the prince?) - the price point of this one plus the subscription is comparable. If I were to do machine embroidery, I would go with a sewing/embroidery combo. I think it's neat that there are different types of machines for different people; I hope though, that they don't totally replace regular machines.
This machine is an add on , to go with your flat bed machine...You are now able to use twenty of your own designs for free, which are changeable..Brother listened apparently..
I think the whole idea from the APP, is to reduce production cost. I actually hate it, but also dont mind it if it will keep the machine price within reach. I prefer to use my phone which I always have one around (pretty sure the rest of us all have phones) and keep the machine cost down, why not, its a good idea.
Ok I read your update.. I was so sad in your video that you couldn't do it for free with importing because I was thinking of wishing for it, but it seems they changed they mind and we now can. .so on the wishlist it goes!
As someone who has a Cricut and a traditional embroidery machine I’m guessing they are going for that kind of market. Funnily enough I’ve cancelled my cricut subscription and barely use it anymore because of all the misalignment and glitches. My embroidery machine is a delight to use in contrast. Embroidery machines shouldn’t be made more similar to Cricut 😖
Thank you for doing this I'm interested in this machine . But not sure I am an older person and wondering if it is worth it with the app and the extra monthly pay just found your channel and I love it
I'm just trying to figure out where the advantage of this is (sans the magnetic hoop) over like, the SE625 which Joanns has had on sale for $320-360. Sure it's "discontinued" but its also available, is also 4x4, doesn't need wifi to transfer files, and you get a backup sewing machine with it. Nuts to me they thought people would welcome a subscription based 4x4 embroidery machine when they have like 3 other embroidery or embroidery combo machines for sale at the same retailers you can get this Skitch???
Like cricuts "design space" the guise is that it's free to use but imo only by internet can you use these is to make money for monthly premium subs but very to control copyright and piracy by reviewing what's in your files that are uploaded and if how many of those designs are you producing more than 1 which shows you may be selling copyrighted or trademark design and then ban your account
Apps are the way I believe they will all go. Manufacturers want to continue to make money on us after the original sale. I will keep my current machines running as long as possible.
I’m curious as an ex sewing repair shop employee if this will be an issue with repairing outside of going to a brother dealer. Most manuals I have seen for multiple brands say that “unauthorized dealer” purchases make the warranty void and usually I have found this to be true for Amazon purchase. (50/50 with Joann machines depending on if they are under a year old and they still have the receipt) Plus I’m interested in the mechanics inside too, since I’m a gear nerd. I really hope they aren’t using plastic gears.
I agree with the must buy the app premium in order to use your own stuff, I will not be investing in this machine just for that reason. I returned the brother cutting machine when I found out I needed to subscribe to the cutting software and purchased the much more expensive solo cutter which at the time I spent 300 dollars for the brother cutter but spent 600 dollars for the solo but the solo ended up being the better choice.
My mum has been doing sewing for years and I want to buy her new machine but she wants to be able to sew and embroider with it what would be best choices? She never done embroidery thou so something beginner friendly that is able to do both I been looking at Singer SE9180 and SE9185 Embroidery is this any good?
Looks nice to learn but the subscription is a deal breaker for me... maybe if the give the machine away for free and paying will not fell so bad... thanks for sharing.
I love Brother machines. mine is a over 15 years old and it has some basic embroidery stitches, which I have used. I have looked at the Brother embroidery machines but I’m still trying to work out how to use Moms very much over the top embroidery machine, but I need to get a desktop PC it’s that old. As a Brother machine, I’m not really impressed with that machine, it’s already showing me it’s limitation. I think I would give it a big thumbs down. I have a huge embroidery library and learn how to use Moms Viking machine as it’s got everything I could ever want or need. I just dumped my HP printer because of its ink based membership which limited how much I could print each month or buy their inks at a high rate and hope I don’t run out of ink. To many of our normal everyday thinks for sewing, printing or even the cricket are moving to apps, no I gave a large iPad so that’s not too bad, I hate the idea of trying to run a sewing machine from my mobile phone, that’s is all kinds of totally mixed up right out of the box. Thanks but for once I’m walking away from that machine right out of the box. It smacks of too much like my old printer which I sent out to find a new home out in the big wide world.
Yeah I wouldn’t buy it. Definitely need bigger than a 4x4. Need at least a 5x7 to make it worth while. I do like the magnetic frame though. Not sure if I like the idea of having to pay for the app though..
This is like how much something costs you if you buy it buy credit card and slowly pay it off-- when you add up the interest, it really costs 3X the original price. With the subscription, which is almost $160 a year, the Skitch costs you twice what you paid for it by the time you've had it for 3 years. No USB port is the ultimate killer for me. And then there's the fine print-- if you read the written disclaimer in the booklets, basically, they can do whatever they want. Increase the cost of the subscription, delete designs, etc., etc., etc. Big, fat, solid hard no on this one for me.
They haven't convinced me that there's a need or desire to buy another item with a subscription. Future expansion seems limited. I don't think it was designed by anyone that understands embroidery and our new generation or even an older generation with more disposable income.
I'll be interested in how it goes when you have to change thread colours. Also, if I pay for the subscription and download my files, then cancel the subscription, will I still have access to those designs on the machines app?
What do you think about the Brother Skitch PP1 embroidery machine and the fact that it's controlled by the Artspira app?
*11/15/23 UPDATE:* Brother has just announced a change to the Artspira app!
"Some of the feedback around Artspira was the inability to import your own designs in the FREE version of the app.
We’ve heard from you and are actively updating Artspira to ensure all users can access this feature.
So, starting on November 30th, users of the Free version of Artspira will be allowed to import any design and store up to 20 designs in Artspira (you can add and remove the 20 designs as you wish!).
Artspira+ Subscription Plan users, the Paid version of Artspira, can store and import up to 100 designs. Basically, more storage!"
*JOANN Fabrics* go.magik.ly/ml/1x1t4/
*Amazon* amzn.to/45TV0C1
*Best Buy* go.magik.ly/ml/1xh53/
Thank you for watching the videos I’ve done about machine embroidery! If you have additional questions, I first ask that you go through the playlist of previous vids as I may have answered it already. Because I’m *not* a sewing machine tech / expert I cannot provide 1-on-1 assistance with your machine or guide you through specific issues. Please reach out to the Brother Product Support Center.
www.brother-usa.com/contact-us
EMBROIDERY MACHINE SUPPLIES I USE: kit.co/sewingreport/machine-embroidery-brother-pe800
DISCLAIMER: This video and description contains affiliate links for several different programs. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
I like the machine. Controlling it with the app seems to be the way a lot of machines work like laser cutters. I love the free arm and the magnetic hoop. Will be nice to see if it can embroider dense designs. And how fast it is. Congratulations on this scoop! I've been looking for more info on this machine and your video is the first and very informative.
Too small for me
The App and subscribe SUCKS!!!
Thanks for your review. Agree totally. Don’t mind using the app. However, when wireless is down, the machine cannot be used. Won’t purchase for now.
Thank you for your review. The concept seems interesting but I definitely won’t pay for a subscription to utilize features that should be standard (file transfers)
Honestly, video reviews like this help the buyer to be more aware of what they are getting into for any machine. There would have been no way for me to justify getting a Cricut Maker if they limited the upload to run it as a custom maker... (Still super disappointed they tried to limit access a year after I bought it).
You 100% need to be able to USE machines otherwise it's just a fancy/expensive gimmick.... In Cricut's case, I use the programs I am comfortable with to create the files and their operation system is just for layout mostly. It would be the same for me on any embroidery machine if I'm able to get one that fits my needs.
I hear you about Cricut. I bought several of their original series of machines and was told they'd ALWAYS be cartridge based, or utilize the Cricut Gypsy device. Then we were told that using the app would always be optional. I also bought the combo print and cut Imagine machine. None of these are supported any longer. Needless to say, I switched to Silhouette machines, and I can still use the original machine I bought with their current software. And I don't have to be online to do it.
After Cricut anything that requires an app to use is not something I would buy.
If my maker goes out I’ll end up getting a silhouette machine. I already have the silhouette business edition program for it, which I can use all of the functions without having to pay extra monthly for it.
I purchase the Skitch a week ago. To keep it short, I returned it. The app does allow you to upload files on the free version. Once I found that feature I was truly excited. The photo to embroidery feature was junk. Ultimately I returned it because I couldn’t get a single complete embroidery design on any other fabric other than standard cotton fabric. The hoop would kick out and 2 times the machine didn’t complete the design( was a preloaded design) not worth the money.
You were able to upload your own external embroidery files in the free version? I was *not* until I upgraded to the paid version. In some of Brother’s social media posts about the Skitch, people asked specifically about that and Brother admitted they would have to subscribe to Artspira+ in order to do that.
EDIT: Any chance you might be in the 2-month free trial and that's why you haven't had to pay yet? Because both the ability to upload external files & Image to Embroidery are subscription-only features. support.brother.com/g/s/hf/mobileapp_info/artspira/plan/cmpr_pdf/artspira_plus_usa.pdf
If you are new to machine embroidery, don’t waste your money on this machine which will be fairly costly in the long run, and very limited on the sizes you can embroider. You’d be money ahead to purchase an actual entry level embroidery/combo sewing and embroidery machine to start out, and get more options on hoop sizes, better quality stitching, you can purchase quality digitized embroidery designs at multiple sites for little cost.
I think at 500, its costly starting out as well. You can get a combo for that or a little less, especially if you go to an expo.
What recommendations would you have?
@@jumpstarttime i’d like to know as well
What do you reccomend
Any suggestions?
I’m born in the 1960’s and I don’t think those free designs are great for anyone. 😂
I was born in the 60’s too. Those designs are hideous! That monkey had me in stitches!🤣😂🤣😂
Yes! The free designs are cheesy! 🧀🧀🧀
It’s pretty! Thank you for your honest review. I’ve been embroidering for a couple of years now, I have a single needle. That free arm option is nice, and the price point is not bad, I agree with you, the app and subscription sucks.
😂 it's fugly.
Thanks for this in-depth review. I’m not a fan of the subscription model unless it’s offering really great designs. I appreciate the work you do without being sponsored by them. My H just bought me a Brother SE625 for $150 at a pawn shop. I haven’t really played with the embroidery yet but love how it sews so far. This new funky coffee machine is only embroidery right? I’m probably not going to be buying this one. Thanks for the info!
LOL - I agree with you calling it a 'funky coffee machine'. One came up on my FaceBook MarketPlace feed and I got curious. When I enlarged the photo, I thought it was either a giant coffee machine or a bread maker.
They are really limiting their customer base by putting the ability to import your own designs behind a paywall. I agree that they would have more customer interest in a small free-arm machine if they offered that function in the free version of the app (or at least a discounted level of pay - $5/month or less).
I wonder if they have locked it like this because the machine itself has stitching limitations, and the Artspira designs fall into certain specifications that are necessary to stitch correctly?
This is what cricut did and why several of my friends went to silhouette. I hadn’t bought mine yet but while researching, cricut went to a paid membership to import more than 10 designs. Big turn off for me and others.
@@fischersgirl1720 Really? Glad to read this, I was thinking about buying one.
@@Tina_42 I love my silhouette. The program they have is super easy IMO.
Subscription = unacceptable.
I almost spent four biweekly payments on this machine.
You have to have internet and a paid subscription in order to use this machine no thank you.
So glad I watched this video
@TheMightyGinkgo you
only need blue tooth to make it work but that means it has to be on your phone or tablet. Mine worked without wifi. Also per internet you can use without wifi.
Totally agree with you about the Artspira App. There are VERY FEW images on the app (even the paid images) that I am interested in utilizing. The images are very childish and elementary, and I wouldn’t pay even $1.99 a month to use them. That makes the Skitch a no-go for me.
I totally recommend the mighty hoops! I have a brother PRS100 and they are a game changer! Of the non brother brands, I think it’s the best magnetic hoop on the market. I do believe brother has bigger magnetic hoops just not in the US market. The only reason I know is because I saw them traveling abroad.
Fast Frames makes mag hoops for PRS 100. They are great
Great video and thanks for the info! I refuse to buy a machine that requires me to have a subscription to use designs I already own.
As a person who’s in his early 20’s the app thing is annoying! We hate that. We all know the companies love apps so they can track all your information even if you aren’t using them!
I see a lot of potential in this machine but its flaw is annoying
The app is flawed 😢
This is a interesting machine; however the hoop size is small and that is very limited. The ability to download my own designs are very important to most who do embroiders. Thank you for your honest review of this machine.
I would have liked to see a denser finished product. I find the finished image to be somewhat flimsy. The magnetic hoop is a great feature. Thanks for this review. I'll wait for a more improved version.
I think you’re right your information is on point and I don’t feel that they should have control of what we want to put on our machines. Definitely reach out to them. If there’s anything I can do I can reach out as well. Give me some information I think more consumers doing that will change things. I love your videos .
The necessity of the app to operate and having to pay for a subscription to upload designs already have is a no go for me. It's like paying twice for designs I already have in order to use it. I also like having the option of using a 5x7 hoop for larger designs.
100% agree. That’s exactly why it’s not gonna happen for me.
It would have been nice if they just figured out an update for those of us with machines that already have these capabilities to be able to use artspira, this reminds me of the he400 series machines they already sold, although the designs were 110% better! Thank you for diving in on this one and buying/trying!
I was so ready to go out and buy it until you said that you needed to use the app to run it and pay for the subscription. And the fact that I can’t transfer my own designs, turns me away. How disappointing! 🤨☹
It works just like the Cricut machine. I think they are going for that market.
$12.99 a month just to upload your own designs is a complete rip-off. I've been embroidering for about 10 years now and have bought two Babylocks and a Bernina. All three came with built-in designs and with all those machines and all those embroidery projects I've done over all those years, I've only used 1 built-in design and that was just once to test the machine after a service repair. The free arm isn't that big a deal to me. I just use a baby hoop and it's fine especially if you are limited to a 4x4 embroidery field. A 4x4 field is extremely limiting. I think it would be better to buy a good used machine from a reputable dealer for what you paid for this machine because at $12.99 a month, you're adding $156 a year to the cost. The magnetic hoop is nice but for what you paid for the subscription, you could easily buy a magnetic 4x4 hoop. I do very much appreciate you reporting on this machine and educating the public on both the pros and cons.
Thanks for doing this. There is nothing on it anywhere other then the cryptic videos from Brother. i think it would be great in a school maker space to make patches.
That's just.... sad and unsatisfying. Thank you so much for testing it for us step by step, so we don't have to.
Thank you for the honest review. It was really helpful. I personally would not buy this machine. I will not support a machine that's useless if you don't have the app. Like another person commented, what happens when the app is no longer supported 5 yrs from now? 3 of my 4 machines, I've had for more than 20 years and they still work as well as they did when I bought them new. I doubt anyone will say the same for this one 20 yrs from now. I understand today's machines are more expensive because of all the fancy electronics (which are nice) but $500 is still a lot of money to spend on a machine that could be rendered "a brick" without the app. And to have to pay for their premium version of the app in order to create your own designs, is a complete deal breaker as well.
This would be a big, fat NO. It seems companies are trying to enforce the mantra "you will own nothing and be happy". If you can't use this independently without controlling you from the internet, forget it. I have HUNDREDS of embroidery files for my current machine, which sux cuz I am limited to 20,000 stitches max - which was NEVER indicated in any of the product documents - which is dumb for a 6"x10" sewing field. I want to replace with a Bernina (50k stitch max), the cost is the issue.
PS. My Joann is a ghost town. They have not yet cut store hours due to number of employees, but there were maybe 4 (2 cut counter, 2 register) and stock laying around in boxes, everywhere. I really want to support them, bcuz I HATE buying stuff from the internet. I mean if you need thread or a sewing machine needle and have to pay for shipping AND wait 3 days to receive it in the middle your project....ugh.
Gosh soon I'll need a subscription to use my kitchen too. So frustrating.
I don't like when companies want you to spend big bucks for their products but then also have to pay a monthly fee to use it. I do think the price is very high compared to a Brother 4x4 or 5x7 hoops. They had them at the expo for under 3 and 400 last month. and they do more. Brother's new printer is the same way. You have to have the app and the cost of the fabric to print on is very expensive. Thank you so much for this very informative video.
I need some help here, I purchased the day it came out, I have literally broken 5 needle already, also the bobbin piece come lose, I don’t know if it’s because it’s my own design or if it’s because I’m trying to embroider a polyester kids shirt, but it is real frustrating rn.
WOW! This made me decide whether or not I'm buying this. The decision is NO! Can't believe you get charged to upload your own designs plus having to control it through an app. No thanks! - Thanks for doing this vid.
I’m so glad I found this review! It’s on sale at Joanns and I was gonna purchase it today. I have a Bernina but it’s old so I want a new machine and thought this was it. The small hoop and subscription is a no for me. Thank you!
The digital app reminds me a lot of the Cricut app along with the way it makes you send the design to the machine and then hit a button on the machine to make it go. I have a feeling that’s where they got the idea for their app.
As always Jen … You been the FACTS 🫡 I’ve been a Brother lover for a long time and indeed I’ve witnessed the change of a growing company. Which reminds me when I bought one of the Brother ScanNCut. It needed you to buy a card to use wireless. But you would not be able to transfer it to another machine if yours been unused 😢 I will mentor this new machine to see what it becomes😊 FIESTA 🎉
Those free designs look like clipart and sad towel embroidery designs from the 90s. 😬I can see some people wanting the emojis even if I do not personally want to embroider emojis. Despite that, I think I want this machine. 😂The main things that are holding me back are the longevity of the machine and having to pay for the subscription. I didn't like the look of the paid-for designs I spotted in your video either. What is your impression of the design options available in the subscription?
Looking forward to seeing what embroidery project you will do next on the machine. I would love to embroider hats (dad caps, bucket hats etc) if I had the machine myself.
You are doing us a great benefit by purchasing it, though I know you are incredibly thrifty and it probably hurts to have to pay over $144/year just to use it - plus the cost of the machine initially. I can't see that the older generation will be thrilled about the subscription model, so they must be trying to target the younger set (like you) who are used to a subscription model for just about everything.
Excellent review! Well presented pros and cons. well done
Glad you liked it!
I'm not a cell phone/app person - so if this had the usb port -- I would buy it - what a shame
I think it’s a terrible idea - phone apps to me are a transitory thing…a couple of OS updates and the app might not work. Think of computerized machines that can’t be updated anymore, or use older things like cartridges or other memory cards. It’s truly built in obsolescence at its most money-grubbing!
Or floppy disks! Omg I have knitted on (brother) knitting machines from the 90s requiring that.
Thanks for the info. ❤ Great review, I think I’ll save my money for something else.
Great review. Stopped my purchase because of the paywall subscription. The free images are really cheap looking. But great GREAT review!
I’m all about Wi-Fi but not being able to be use any of the thousands of designs I have is a turn-off. Plus the hoop is too small. Like the magnetic part of the hoop. Why did Brother develop this machine? Is it easier to do things like caps?
Thank you for this review. I want to print my own designs . Almost $550 a machine + monthly sub+ is an app that in 2 years MAX will not be updated anymore. I dont see my self buying this......Thank you for the review.
There was a sling in the box to lift it up.
I really thought this was something I had to have but am having second thoughts. I thought I could take it with me on trips where I go to sew. I have many designs that I have bought over the years and don't think I should have to pay to use the, The free designs are very lack luster. I didn't see any I would use. thank you for your review. I think I will wait for an improved edition.
Great vlog, I wouldn’t buy a machine with the design limitations and the hoop size is dreadful x
Hoopsize is normal for entry level.
Subscription = unacceptable.
Thank you very much for all the information. I really think it is not worth the trouble of getting it.
Thank you for making this video!!!
27 yr old here, i absolutely do not like controlling it from my phone, much easier from my machine! The subscription and relying on the internet sucks too, this could have a lot of potential for being an entry machine but not with all of that junk
Cool video. Thank you.
Imo if I can’t work on my designs from a computer I probably wont buy it. Lol
I don’t use my phone to create things. Lol not my cup of tea😅
Really really wish it had more options for hoops… love the size of machine..
Those the free arm is small for kids clothes because I have the SE1900 and I can’t embroidery cuff for kid or groups they make it square and it should be kind of rounded
I actually like the idea of doing it on an app instead of on the machine but I just wish the app was free and included.
I am very interested in using it for applique with basic embroidery and I like the way it is designed for sewing patches onto hats.
Thank you for this review!!!
I've tried over and over but still can't figure out how to thread the needle. I live in the mountains and can't always get Internet up here. 😢
Thank you for your honest review. I was looking at purchasing this machine but will look elsewhere now❤
I have three Brother sewing/embroidery machines, one embroidery only machine, and a Singer sewing/embroidery machine. I was curious to see what this one did, although I'm not interested in purchasing. I was hoping it would have a smaller footprint. I agree that working from an app would be different for experienced users.
Did they miss how Cricut users (myself included) revolted when they were going to force us into a subscription. Cricut decided against it. I was thinking this machine wasn't half bad if not for the subscription model. Thanks for calling that out here.
Interesting machine. I am disappointed in the news about the Artspira App. I’ve only ever hear from Brother that it’s a free app, not mentioning that there’s a paywall. Obviously I haven’t tried it myself. BTW, Brother does make larger magnetic hoops. They’re pricey, but my friend got a 5x7 for her PE770, and she loves it. I want to get the upgrade kit for my Stellaire XJ1. It comes with a huge magnetic hoop! I also want to get the magnetic 5x7 hoop for my PE800, which can also be used on the Stellaire. I’ve heard once you go magnetic, you (I) won’t want to go back! Thank you for your testing and showing this new machine. 💗
Oh my I just looked up the Brother frame and the 5x7 inch costs $300!!!! Unfortunately, it's also the type where the top part is not just one piece but six separate magnetic pieces. I'd really prefer a design with just one top piece and one bottom piece. The dime Snap Hoop Monster frame looks more appealing but even that one is over $150 and has some questionable Amazon reviews, which is why I haven't tried it out. I really do like the Skitch's magnetic hoop.
@@SewingReport $600? When I first started saving for it, it was much less! No way can I do that with sensibility.
don't forget getting it serviced is a subscription too
I can totally see sewing machine companies start to offer some type of monthly subscription plan to cover repairs & maintenance as sort of an extended warranty / service plan like Best Buy and Apple.
Machine embroidery isn't my thing and I don't do apps so it's not for me; however, I think there is a market for this and the subscription. This machine is a good price point compaired to the other single needle machine that was over $1,000 (I think that was the prince?) - the price point of this one plus the subscription is comparable. If I were to do machine embroidery, I would go with a sewing/embroidery combo.
I think it's neat that there are different types of machines for different people; I hope though, that they don't totally replace regular machines.
This machine is an add on , to go with your flat bed machine...You are now able to use twenty of your own designs for free, which are changeable..Brother listened apparently..
I love that it looks like a coffee maker! Hehehe
Yes, but you don't need an internet connection to make coffee.
Can the machine do applique? Sorry for all the comments.
Applique is a type of embroidery design, so you have to specifically use an applique design file. All embroidery machines are capable of applique.
My internet comes and goes. That could be bad if I’m in the middle of a project.
Yay, you bought it. ❤
"Somebody from like the 1990s would think somebody younger likes" .... ouch LOL
I think the whole idea from the APP, is to reduce production cost. I actually hate it, but also dont mind it if it will keep the machine price within reach. I prefer to use my phone which I always have one around (pretty sure the rest of us all have phones) and keep the machine cost down, why not, its a good idea.
Thank you for this review! I was thinking about getting this, but now I think I will get the PE 800 or 900
If Brother made the same style of magnetic hoop for the PE800/900 I would be so excited!
Ok I read your update.. I was so sad in your video that you couldn't do it for free with importing because I was thinking of wishing for it, but it seems they changed they mind and we now can. .so on the wishlist it goes!
As someone who has a Cricut and a traditional embroidery machine I’m guessing they are going for that kind of market. Funnily enough I’ve cancelled my cricut subscription and barely use it anymore because of all the misalignment and glitches. My embroidery machine is a delight to use in contrast. Embroidery machines shouldn’t be made more similar to Cricut 😖
Thank you for doing this I'm interested in this machine . But not sure I am an older person and wondering if it is worth it with the app and the extra monthly pay just found your channel and I love it
What happens when the app no longer gets updated. I don't know about this at all
I'm just trying to figure out where the advantage of this is (sans the magnetic hoop) over like, the SE625 which Joanns has had on sale for $320-360. Sure it's "discontinued" but its also available, is also 4x4, doesn't need wifi to transfer files, and you get a backup sewing machine with it. Nuts to me they thought people would welcome a subscription based 4x4 embroidery machine when they have like 3 other embroidery or embroidery combo machines for sale at the same retailers you can get this Skitch???
Like cricuts "design space" the guise is that it's free to use but imo only by internet can you use these is to make money for monthly premium subs but very to control copyright and piracy by reviewing what's in your files that are uploaded and if how many of those designs are you producing more than 1 which shows you may be selling copyrighted or trademark design and then ban your account
Apps are the way I believe they will all go. Manufacturers want to continue to make money on us after the original sale. I will keep my current machines running as long as possible.
Wow, So Cool!
I’m curious as an ex sewing repair shop employee if this will be an issue with repairing outside of going to a brother dealer. Most manuals I have seen for multiple brands say that “unauthorized dealer” purchases make the warranty void and usually I have found this to be true for Amazon purchase. (50/50 with Joann machines depending on if they are under a year old and they still have the receipt)
Plus I’m interested in the mechanics inside too, since I’m a gear nerd. I really hope they aren’t using plastic gears.
I agree with the must buy the app premium in order to use your own stuff, I will not be investing in this machine just for that reason. I returned the brother cutting machine when I found out I needed to subscribe to the cutting software and purchased the much more expensive solo cutter which at the time I spent 300 dollars for the brother cutter but spent 600 dollars for the solo but the solo ended up being the better choice.
My mum has been doing sewing for years and I want to buy her new machine but she wants to be able to sew and embroider with it what would be best choices? She never done embroidery thou so something beginner friendly that is able to do both I been looking at Singer SE9180 and SE9185 Embroidery is this any good?
With the paid subscription, do it digitize a design you make when uploaded to the app?
No tiene área de bordar más grande? Quien y para que tienda sirve
Just a few things about this machine that I don't like is why I wouldn't buy it. I would rather buy the PE800 or PE900
Looks nice to learn but the subscription is a deal breaker for me... maybe if the give the machine away for free and paying will not fell so bad...
thanks for sharing.
Thank you for this review!
I love Brother machines. mine is a over 15 years old and it has some basic embroidery stitches, which I have used. I have looked at the Brother embroidery machines but I’m still trying to work out how to use Moms very much over the top embroidery machine, but I need to get a desktop PC it’s that old.
As a Brother machine, I’m not really impressed with that machine, it’s already showing me it’s limitation. I think I would give it a big thumbs down. I have a huge embroidery library and learn how to use Moms Viking machine as it’s got everything I could ever want or need.
I just dumped my HP printer because of its ink based membership which limited how much I could print each month or buy their inks at a high rate and hope I don’t run out of ink.
To many of our normal everyday thinks for sewing, printing or even the cricket are moving to apps, no I gave a large iPad so that’s not too bad, I hate the idea of trying to run a sewing machine from my mobile phone, that’s is all kinds of totally mixed up right out of the box.
Thanks but for once I’m walking away from that machine right out of the box. It smacks of too much like my old printer which I sent out to find a new home out in the big wide world.
Do you think you could do a trucker hat on It? Could you demo that?
Does it just done color at a time, 1 needle. How thick of a fabric can you use?
Yeah I wouldn’t buy it. Definitely need bigger than a 4x4. Need at least a 5x7 to make it worth while. I do like the magnetic frame though. Not sure if I like the idea of having to pay for the app though..
I thought I saw options for hoop sizes when you were prepping the design.
There are because other machines with bigger hoop compatibility can also be used with Artspira. The Brother Skitch currently only accommodates 4x4.
NAH!, Brother truly missed the mark on this. Definitely not worth the money.
This is like how much something costs you if you buy it buy credit card and slowly pay it off-- when you add up the interest, it really costs 3X the original price. With the subscription, which is almost $160 a year, the Skitch costs you twice what you paid for it by the time you've had it for 3 years. No USB port is the ultimate killer for me. And then there's the fine print-- if you read the written disclaimer in the booklets, basically, they can do whatever they want. Increase the cost of the subscription, delete designs, etc., etc., etc. Big, fat, solid hard no on this one for me.
Excited to see this becoming ewaste in under a decade, when they either abandon the app or EoL the product
Can you make a video using your own designs and the process it takes to do that with this machine.
Why can't Brother make a magnetic hoop for all their embroidery machines??
They haven't convinced me that there's a need or desire to buy another item with a subscription. Future expansion seems limited. I don't think it was designed by anyone that understands embroidery and our new generation or even an older generation with more disposable income.
I'll be interested in how it goes when you have to change thread colours. Also, if I pay for the subscription and download my files, then cancel the subscription, will I still have access to those designs on the machines app?
Personally I would save my money and invest in something else. Looks like to much trouble for so little. Thanks for sharing
I feel like this would be great for a teen to get started in machine embroidery.. not liking it's wifi only. And very limited in the free designs.
I'm surprised the machine didn't come already threaded.
If cricut had an embroidery machine
😂 😆
The App killed this for me. I have horrible cell service at my home. I have to use a landline.