Brother JX2517 Review In Detail

Brother JX2517 is a very entry level beginners' sewing machine. It comes with 17 built-in stitches which include a 4-step buttonhole. A total of 38 stitch functions are available. It features a top drop-in bobbin. The work area is illuminated by LED bulb. This machine is free arm capable, so you can easily sew cuffs and sleeves. There is an automatic bobbin winding system as well.

Being a mechanical sewing machine, stitch selection on Brother JX2517 is done turning the dial. This machine can sew at a maximum speed of 900 stitches/minute. For a machine that belongs to the entry level, the motor is really powerful . You will get 4 standard presser feet and a variety of accessories along with this machine. It comes with 25 year limited warranty, which is pretty much the standard for most sewing machines sold in United States.

Ease of Use

Brother JX2517 is not complicated at all. Everything is easy to understand and use, which is absolutely important for a beginner. It is a good starter machine. Even though this machine lacks an automatic needle threader, it is easy to thread. The stitch quality is very good. This machine can do more than just mending. If you use the right needle, you can sew thick fabrics like denim with good results. However I won't recommend sewing really thick fabrics like leather, as it is not designed for such heavy duty stuffs. 

The foot pedal speed control works well. I would recommend beginners to start with low speeds in the beginning and then slowly increase the speed as you gain confidence. The lightweight construction of JX2517 makes it easy to take it to sewing classes.

Drawbacks

There is no automatic needle threader, which is pretty common on entry level machines nowadays. 

Brother JX2517 lacks a 1-step buttonhole which can finish the buttonhole in a single step. In the case of a 4-step buttonhole, you will have to stitch out 4 sides one by one.

If you want a machine that has an automatic needle threader, 1-step buttonhole and few extra stitches, you will have to look at some other model like the Brother XM2701.

Pros

•    Lightweight
•    Affordable
•    Not complicated

Cons

•    No automatic needle threader
•    No 1-step buttonhole
•    No drop feed

Review Verdict

Brother JX2517 will be an ideal 'Learning Machine' for those who want to step into the world of sewing. It is not a fancy high end sewing machine, but still it gets the job done.