The Brother RSQ9185 comes with the features of high-end models without the hefty price tag. It is an all-in-one tool when it comes to tackling small and large sewing and quilting projects. An array of features, packed into an affordable price, makes the Brother RSQ9185 a popular choice among seamstresses.
If you are in the market for a computerized sewing machine that can take on both sewing and quilting projects, the Brother RSQ9185 is an option worth considering. We’ll explore the features and functions of this sewing machine and discuss its pros and cons to help you decide whether it is the right option for you or not.
Brother RSQ9185 Review
The Brother RSQ9185 Sewing and Quilting Machine comes with 130 built-in stitches including quilting, heirloom, decorative, and utility stitches. It also features 55 alphanumeric stitches that can be used for basic monogramming and 8 styles of 1-step auto-size buttonholes. The RSQ9185 also includes several accessories including 11 different sewing and quilting feet. This machine has the power and features to accommodate any sewing or quilting project whether small or large. A free arm is also there for sewing sleeves and cuffs. Not only that, but the RSQ9185 sports a wide table to help you complete larger projects – like quilts and gowns – with ease.
Pros
- Chock-full of features
- Can be used for both sewing and quilting
- Affordable option
- Smooth sewing experience
- Good for intermediate seamstresses
Cons
- Not for beginners
- The LED light isn’t bright enough
- No carrying case included in the package
Features of the Brother RSQ9185
130 Built-in Stitches
The Brother RSQ9185 comes loaded with 130 stitches including heirloom, quilting, utility, and decorative stitches. This huge selection means that you won’t have to worry about getting more stitches. You can select any stitch you want and start working on your project.
Start/Stop Button and Variable Speed Control
The Brother RSQ9185 has a start/stop button and a speed control slider to change the sewing speed. This feature is extremely useful, especially when you are quilting and need more control over the speed of the machine. The speed control slider of the Brother RS9185 has three different options so you can set the tone according to your needs.
When you are on a roll, you can turn the speed up and complete your project faster with the machine’s maximum speed of 850 stitches per minute. On heavy fabrics or when on edge, you can slow down to ensure that you don’t mess things up.
Large Backlit LCD Display
The Brother RSQ9185 features an LCD display for stitch selection, positioning, and other options. It is fairly bright – not the brightest though – and can be read even in low lighting.
Wide Table
The Brother RSQ9185 boasts a detachable wide table that gives you additional space for large projects like home décor, quilts, and costumes.
Drop Feed Dogs
Seven-point feed dogs can be dropped on the Brother RSQ9185 for free-motion quilting or any other freehand work.
55 Alphanumeric Stitches
The Brother RSQ9185 comes with 55 alphanumeric stitches that you can use for personalization and basic monogramming.
8 Buttonholes
You won’t have to worry about creating buttonholes when you have the Brother RSQ9185 Sewing and Quilting Machine. It features 8 styles of buttonholes so you can create buttonholes that are sized to fit the buttons.
LED Lighting
If you are used to sewing on dark fabrics, you would know how hard it can be to get the stitches right when there isn’t enough light in the room. Brother, recognizing this issue, has featured a LED light in their RSQ9185 machine that illuminates the working area around the needle. With the light falling on the fabric, you should be able to sew on dark fabrics with ease.
Advanced Needle Threader
Threading a needle can be a real pain. But, you won’t have to worry about it when you have the Brother RSQ9185 as this machine comes with an automatic needle threader. It’ll thread the needle for you only with a touch of a lever.
Reverse Stitch Function
The Brother RSQ9185 includes a reverse stitch function that you can use to reinforce the stitches with two or more stitches at the start and the end.
Lightweight
At only 9.9 pounds, the Brother RSQ9185 is a relatively lightweight machine, which makes it easy for you to carry it to your sewing classes. Despite being light, it is solid enough to be stable on a level tabletop and thus won’t miss any stitch.
DVD and Manual
Every buyer gets an owner’s manual and a DVD with the Brother RSQ9185. The DVD is specifically made for this sewing and quilting machine. The manual is a useful bonus. It is clear, direct, and easy to understand. Since it is written in simple English, even a beginner can comprehend it without any difficulty.
Other Optional Accessories Available
Whenever you buy a new sewing machine, you’ll get a few additional accessories. Brother also features tons of accessories as standard with the RSQ9185 to help you complete your sewing chores with ease. You can also purchase additional accessories as needed.
One thing that isn’t included with the Brother RSQ9185 is a carrying case, which is pretty disappointing. You will have to buy a separate case to cover your machine. At this price range, we would expect RSQ9185 to include a carrying case as a standard accessory so that buyers don’t have to spend more to protect their machine from dust and damage.
Alternatives to the Brother RSQ9815 Sewing Machine
The Brother RSQ9815 is a pretty solid option with many impressive features. However, if this sewing machine doesn’t meet your needs, you could consider other options. For instance, you could go with another model from Brother – the CS6000i.
The Brother CS6000i is one of the top-rated sewing and quilting machines currently available in the market. It comes with 60 built-in stitches, 7 styles of 1-step buttonholes. It also features an automatic needle threader and a wide table for quilts and other larger projects. An LCD screen is also there for stitch selection and other functions but, unlike the RSQ9185, the screen isn’t backlit.
The Brother CS6000i doesn’t have any monogramming feature. The speed of this machine can be adjusted and it comes with a built-in free arm that should help you sew pant legs, sleeves, and other cylindrical items. The Brother CS6000i is a relatively simpler option, so if you find the features and functions of the RSQ9185 complicated, you could consider going with the CS6000i
If you want a more advanced quilting machine than the Brother RSQ9185, you could consider the SINGER Confidence Quilter 7469Q. The Singer 7469Q features 98 built-in stitches with seven automatic one-step buttonholes to help you take on both small and major sewing projects with ease. One of the most impressive features of this machine is the programmable needle up/down. This function comes in handy for quilting when you are piecing together patchworks. You can program the needle of the Singer 7469Q to stop in the down position when quilting, appliquéing or pivoting fabric.
Like the Brother RSQ9185, the Singer 7469Q comes with an automatic needle threader, drop feed, and an extension table. Not only that, but this machine also allows you to adjust stitch length and width and features four bonus quilting feet. In a nutshell, it is a great option for anyone looking for a feature-rich sewing and quilting machine.
Our Final Thoughts
The Brother RSQ9185 Sewing and Quilting Machine is chock-full of features and has the functions that any intermediate seamstress would appreciate. At this price range, it is hard to find a machine that offers this much value. This is the reason why Brother RS9185 has received so many positive reviews from the people who have been fortunate enough to use it.
If you want a sewing and quilting machine that will help you take on small and major projects with ease, the Brother RSQ9185 is a good option. There isn’t much to complain about it and it should assist you in your work. However, if you find the features of this machine too complicated, you could settle for the Brother CS6000i. On the other hand, if your main focus is quilting, you could consider going with the Singer Confidence Quilter 7469Q.
We hope you like our take on the Brother RSQ9185. If you have any questions about this sewing machine, ask us. If you want us to review any other sewing machine for you, feel free to let us know. We will do our best to bring you an unbiased review of the product you are planning to buy so that you can make the right decision.
