The Brother SQ9000 quilting sewing machine comes with an extra wide extension table and a number of quilting accessories.
This is exactly the same as the Brother XR9000 with a couple of major differences and identical to the newer SQ9050 (which comes with 20 more stitches).
Brother gave it a nice accent upgrade by applying the purple scroll splash across the front of the machine, threw in the quilting accessories (which previously had to be purchased separately) and gave it a nice, low price.
Table of Contents
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Stitch Count / Presser Feet / Functionality / Accessories / Customer Reviews / Pros, Cons & Manual
REVIEW SUMMARY
MODEL: Brother SQ9000 Sewing Machine
REVIEWED BY: Erin
RATING: 4.5 
LAST UPDATED: April 9, 2015
COMPARE PRICES
DISCONTINUED
What do those changes get you? The same functionality, a cuter package, and more accessories – all at a pretty cheap price.
Stitch Count
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The Brother SQ9000 sewing machine comes with 80 built-in stitches to cover mending, clothes construction, quilting, joining, and piecing. Included in that list are 8 styles of auto-sizing, 1-step buttonholes.
Stitch selection is done through the use of two up/down arrow keys located beneath the backlit LCD screen until the appropriate stitch number is selected. Two additional arrow keys establish the settings for the selected stitch. Stitch width is adjustable to 7mm and stitch length is adjustable to 5mm.
There is also one font of letters and characters for monogramming. The font style is rather boxy and the font size is small but sufficient for stitching messages and monograms on clothing, quilts and other projects.
Sew names, messages or monograms with the letter and character font. You can also combine stitch patterns a stitch or character at a time for a more customized look, for example: letter, flower, letter, flower, letter. You can even insert spaces in between patterns of decorative stitches.
The stitch reference guide is located on a flip chart on the front of the machine and readily available as you sew.
Presser Feet
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The ten presser feet that come with the Brother SQ9000 are an upgrade from the previous model. You now get the presser feet most necessary for doing any quilting or free-motion embroidery on a sewing machine.
- Zigzag – (with a leveler button to assist the foot in getting over thick or bulky seams)
- Walking Foot
- Quilting Foot
- ¼” Foot
- Monogramming Foot
- Buttonhole Foot
- Zipper Foot
- Button Fitting Foot
- Overcasting Foot
- Blind Stitch Foot
Some product listings – even the Brother website – note that this machine comes with nine presser feet. They have not included the Zigzag presser foot – also known as the General Purpose foot – in their count.
If you’ve been shopping for sewing machines, you’ll have noticed that some come with just a couple of presser feet and others come with many more. First, many of today’s sewing machine manufacturers sell add-on accessories (like presser feet) that can be purchased later as needed.
This means that if you are really after a sewing machine with a walking foot, it is okay to consider sewing machines that don’t come with one as long as there is either a manufacturer brand or a generic one available that is compatible with your machine.
However, any add-ons are an extra expense. The number of presser feet that come with the Brother SQ9000 would cost about $100 if purchased separately. That’s a plus for this sewing machine, if you’re comparing several models.
Functionality
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The Brother SQ9000 is a couple of inches smaller than others in this price range and several pounds lighter than most. This is compensated for by the addition of the 14” extra-wide extension table. You can remove the flat bed attachment and replace it with this longer, wider table in order to have more work-space – especially nice when you’re working on a quilt.
This is a computerized sewing machine with an LCD screen and push button controls. A number of automated features have been included to speed up threading and sewing tasks:
- Automatic needle threader
- Quick set bobbin eliminates the need to pull up bobbin thread before you start to sew
- Brother’s F.A.S.T winding system –has a little seat on which the bobbin sits during winding that helps guide the thread (saving a step in the process) and includes an automatic thread trimmer on the seat. Bobbins are wound quickly and evenly.
- Start/Stop button – allows you to sew without using the foot pedal
- Speed control slider – used to reduce the maximum sewing speed for beginners or for delicate stitch work
- Drop feed dog lever – lower the feed dogs for darning, quilting, or free motion embroidery
- Upper and lower thread sensors – tells you when thread has broken or is running low
- Reverse/Reinforcement stitch button – Tie off your threads with the push of a button
- Needle up/down button – program the machine to stop with the needle up or down as needed
- Upper thread tension dial – tension is manual and can be adjusted with this dial
The Brother SQ9000 is capable of twin needle sewing and, in fact, a twin needle comes with your purchase. The flat bed attachment is used to store the provided accessories and can be removed for free-arm sewing, as well. The needle has three available positions – center, left, and right.
The LCD panel provides clear pictures of stitch selections and settings and will even tell you which presser foot needs to be attached for a selected stitch. Error codes and beep sounds keep you posted as to the machine’s status and notify you of any problems. There is an LED light over the work area and a built-in handle so you can pick up and go.
(Requires SA156, SFB bobbins.)
Dimensions: – L 16” x W 11.05” x D 6.7”
Weight: 9.9 pounds
Accessories
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A number of sewing accessories are included with the Brother SQ9000 sewing machine:
- Hard cover case
- Seam Ripper
- 4 bobbins
- 4 needles (1 size 75/11, 1 size 90/14, 1 size 100/16, 1 90/14 gold ball point for stretch fabrics)
- Twin needle
- Cleaning brush
- Screwdriver
- Extra spool pin
- Larger extension table
- Quilting Guide
- Eyelet Punch
Customer Reviews
Users like it for quilting work, particularly piecing. It’s fast, easy to use, and the font comes in handy for simple monogramming work. The controls provide a lot of automation which makes sewing a breeze.
Overall, consumers have been happy with their purchase. You can read more here: User Reviews
Average Rating: 4.5
Pros, Cons & Manual
Pros: Great selection of presser feet. Extension table for wider work space. Needle up/down. Speed control slider. Broad assortment of utility and decorative stitches. Hard cover case included. Light-weight. Best with medium weight fabrics.
Cons: Bobbin cover is not see-through. Presser foot pressure is not adjustable. Letter and character font size is small. Stabilizer may be required for working with very light or sheer fabrics.
Manual available online here: Brother SQ9000 Manual
Manufacturer’s Warranty: As of this date, Brother offers a 1 year warranty on parts and labor, a two year warranty on electronic pattern control and selection components (parts only), and a 25 year warranty on shafts and rods on the machine head.
Features Summary Review:
Will this machine be too lightweight to handle thicker fabric?
Joanne – At 10 pounds this one might get pushed around if you’re going to do doing some heavy quilting. It does, however, sew nicely through several layers of fabric.
If you think you may need something sturdier, you might look at these two:
Singer Confidence 7469Q: https://www.erinsayssew.com/singer-confidence-7469q-quilter-sewing-machine-review/
Janome Sewist 500: https://www.erinsayssew.com/janome-sewist-500-sewing-machine-review/ or, in the same price range as the SQ900 you might look at the Brother CS6000i
The Confidence 746Q has similar quilting accessories and stitches but neither of these alternatives has the letter font, which may be one of the factors that drew you to the SQ9000. The Janome Sewist is a popular sewing machine but has far fewer stitches than this model.
Thanks!
Erin
Hi
You seem to really know about the different models. I’m considering getting the Brother SQ9000. (I’ve used the XR9000 before and liked it). I really don’t need it for quilting, but am wondering how this machine will perform for everyday wear as cotton or more delicate sewing, such as silk fabric for a wedding dress.
Thanks!
Ada
Ada – The SQ9000 will absolutely handle both everyday materials and more delicate fabrics. With each type of fabric you just want to make sure you use the right needle, the right thread and for some really sheer fabrics you sometimes need special presser feet (like a non-stick foot so you don’t leave friction marks on the fabric) or stabilizer material but this model can handle them all and there are compatible accessories available for the machine so that you can do so. If you’re going to work on a wedding dress, too, the extension table on this machine can help in holding up those long sections of your project. 😉
Sincerely,
Erin
Hi, Just wanted to know if this machine has metal gears or plastic gears. I was told to ask because if this machine has plastic gears, that there will be problems. Thank you
Becky, I wish I knew the answer to this one but I don’t. I had heard from my local retailer that some of the Brother machines that are sold only online can be cheaper because they have cheaper internal parts. How much of that is accurate and how much of that is a sales tactic from the dealer, I don’t know. The only way to tell would be to peek inside. At some point, I may need to do that on a few of these! Sometimes, you can actually see into the thread lay in slot enough to get a glimpse of the interior parts. I did this with my Janome because I’d heard something similar. The other factor I take into consideration are the reviews of other users and specifically the content of any negatives. Most reviews on the SQ9000 are extremely positive and no one has complained about having the gears give out too quickly or lock up without explanation. I wish I could give you a more definite answer on this one.
Erin
I’ve been researching getting a new machine and like the looks of the brother sq9000. My question though is how it handles brocade and fabrics like it. Also, I like to make rennaisance dresses and I would like to know if it would do well making heavy costumes like that
Tonya – Yes, the SQ9000 would handle the fabrics and projects you describe. Because it’s built to handle quilting work with thick layers of batting and material and comes with the walking foot, it can handle thick layers of other kinds of materials, too. It’s got a great, reliable feed dog system, the extension table to help support large, heavy projects, and my favorite set of automatic controls – needle up/down, start/stop button, and speed control.
I had stumbled across a social network of seamstresses who all made period costumes and the work was absolutely beautiful! It looked like so much fun!
Let me know if you have any other questions. 😉
Sincerely,
Erin
I am a newbie to sewing and quilting and am looking for a sewing machine to purchase to make my first quilt. I have been looking at the SQ-9000 and the CS-6000i. They seem like very comparable machines with the SQ-9000 having some more stitches, an alphabet and an additional foot. I am wondering which is a better buy for what a person gets and if the SQ-9000 is more geared for quilting than the CS-6000i. I don’t foresee needing as many stitches as either machine offers, but am interested in the quilting ones. The price-point I am looking at places the SQ-9000 $40 more than the CS-6000i and I priced the extra 1/4″ quilting foot at $9.
I’m a total newbie to sewing… and I’m wanting to have a go at making new clothes (I’m a photographer and instead of paying a million dollars for clothing I thought maybe making my own would be fun while I’m pregnant) I want something that will tackle anything I wanna have a go at whether it be embroidering my new bubs on things or making clothes.. what do you more experienced ladies recommend?
Jacqui – Because you mention embroidery as well as sewing, check out the Brother SE400 combination sewing and embroidery machine. You didn’t mention a specific price range but this is one of the most popular sewing machines for beginners and for experienced sewers who don’t want to go broke buying a new machine. It has excellent ratings, lots of features, the ability to add new embroidery patterns you download to your computer and it sews just as well as it embroiders.
There are tons of stitches for making clothes, blankets, quilts, home decor items, and it can handle a wide variety of materials. This one will keep you well occupied throughout your pregnancy. Congratulations, by the way! Lots of neat things you can do with embroidery and baby items. So much fun!
Sincerely,
Erin
I purchased a refurbished SQ9000 from a local dealer and it didn’t come with any of the quilting feet that come with the new machine. I’m now wanting to get those feet but I’m confused about what to purchase. I think that I got everything except the walking foot, the quilting/darning foot, the 1/4″ foot and the quilt guide. The 1/4″ foot is easy to figure out but I don’t know about the walking foot or the quilting foot because all of my other feet are snap-on and I’ve not seen any snap-ons with these kind of feet. Any ideas?
Marilyn – Here are the links for the compatible feet:
Brother 1/4-Inch Quilting Foot
Distinctive Even Feed Walking Sewing Machine Presser Foot – Fits All Low Shank Singer, Brother, Babylock, Viking (Husky Series), Euro-Pro, Janome (Top-Loading Drop-In Bobbin Machines Only), White, Juki, New Home, Simplicity, Necchi, Elna and More!
This machine does take snap on presser feet and Distinctive makes a good quality generic set of presser feet that fit most Brother machines.
Hope that helps!
Sincerely,
Erin
i am semi new to sewing and quilting and i am looking at this machine and i see that it has the letters but can you add and other fonts or pictures via downloading them or a cartridge?
Vicki – The Brother SQ9000 does not accept downloads or cartridges. The only fonts you can sew with this model are the ones that come pre-programmed into the machine. You might want to take a look at the SE400 (https://www.erinsayssew.com/brother-se400-computerized-embroidery-sewing-machine-review/) which is a combination sewing and embroidery machine that comes with 5 fonts, a set of embroidery patterns, a USB port so you can download new designs and fonts, and a cartridge reader so you can add new fonts and patterns through Brother cartridges. It’s great for quilting and comes with some quilting accessories, too.
Sincerely,
Erin
Hi,
This is the first time i ever even searched for “how to buy a sewing machine.” i have no idea how to sew. i have used hem tape for many things :0)
I am exploring my craft-side and want to be able to sew some projects and ideas that i get. I would like to make clothing or pouches or hats or scarves. Or just, in general, have a machine that i can “attempt” random ideas with.
I like the idea of having the embroidery fonts.. so a machines that comes with many or you can upload would be great. quilting would be a great feature. i am not sure what “feet” are.. .like i said…this is the first time i ever looked into sewing machines.
My budget is $100-$200. If there is a machine that is particularly good for buying upgrades to, in this price range… that may be appealing as well. If i really enjoy sewing,i will look to enhance the machine.
Any insights would be great. I really appreciate your thoughts! thank you :0)
Michelle
I’m back!Sorry for being overly annoying but right when i decided to get the SQ9000 along comes the SQ9050.They are the same price but all i know is that the SQ9050 has more stitches(just looks like mirrored ones)and i mean if they are the same price then go for the one with more right?Please help me my mind is going in circles.Thanks so much Erin!
I’d go for the newer updated machine.
So your saying there is no other differences other than the SQ9050 having more stitches and functions?I’m just afraid of buying it and not getting some accessories that are included in the SQ9000.I tried to find out myself but they don’t offer much information about the SQ9050 online.
I just looked at the specs on Brother’s web site for both machines and they have identical accessories included.
Alright then i will go with your advice and get the newer model.Thanks!
Hi!
I am from Croatia and would very much like to buy this brother SQ 9000, but there is a problem with electricity. Here in Croatia we have a 220 V and in USA there is a 110 V power, so If I order a sewing machine from USA it will not work here in Croatia and I can’t find this machine anywhere in Europe, so I wonder if there is any chance to get this sewing machine with 220 V power so I can use it in Croatia. Thank you and best regards from Croatia!
It’s very easy to get a 220 to 110 adapter so you can run it in your country. Just stop by any electrical appliance store and they should be able to help you.
I plan to buy the SQ9000. I have an old sewing cabinet with Brother sewing machine in it. Can you tell me if this machine is about the same size so I can place it in my cabinet.
Becki – Sorry, not sure if you meant to give me the model number of the other machine or not but there’s not enough information for me to tell you if the SQ9000 will fit or not.
Sincerely,
Erin
Hi Erin, since you seemed to know about sewing machine and I read on the above asking about which one is better to buy, the CS6000i and SQ9000? Can help me find the answer and replied on this one or the above (Em)? I like the idea of letters included in the SQ9000 though but which one do you think better?
Also, is this machine good for denim? Are Brothers sewing machine made from? Japan or China?
Thanks,
Ann
Ann – If you are going to do a fair amount of denim and if you like the idea of having letters, then I’d go with the Brother SQ9000. Performance between the two will be nearly identical but you get the letter font as well as a 7 point feed dog instead of the 6 that comes with the CS6000i so you get just a touch more fabric control. The price is only different by about $30 which I think is fair if you plan on using the font. Other than that the machines are pretty similar so you should see the same reliability from either model.
Yes, Brother machines are made in Japan or China – I believe they have plants in both locations. Brother may even have plants in the states but I haven’t read up on their production locations in awhile now.
Sincerely,
Erin
I am experianced at sewing when I comes to clothing and crafts but i am starting to quilt, my machine is an singer about 15 yrs old it does the basic stuff but i can’t quilt with it. I am looking into the brother sq9000. but hav seen so bad reviews and some good ones, Im a singer girl and i have the one i would like picked out, but its about 100.00 more. Can you help me out. i am mainly buying it for the quilting aspect, will it hold up for me? THanks for youe input.
DEe – Overall, the Brother SQ9000 is a good machine that shouldn’t give you any trouble. Now, since you mentioned a preference for Singer and trying to avoid machines that are $100 more than this one, I have some options for you that can handle quilting and have similar – or better – consumer ratings than the SQ9000. Not to steer you away from this one but just so you know that you have some other choices that might eliminate your concerns with the reviews you saw online.
First, Singer has two options that can both handle quilting and have the stippling stitch, too. Both cost just under $200:
Singer 7258 (click to see that page)
Singer 7256 (click to see that page)
The other choice is the Brother CP-7500 (I wrote about it here). It’s also less than $200, includes quilting stitches, includes the extra wide extension table for large projects.
All three of these machines have really strong consumer ratings and great reviews. The CP-7500 is the newer version of Brother’s most widely popular model, the CS6000i.
The two singers are a couple of inches shorter than the Brother models but all weigh about the same. Those extra couple of inches can come in handy for quilting, though.
None of these other options has the letter font you get with the SQ9000 so keep that in mind.
I know you didn’t exactly ask for more choices to consider after having narrowed it down to the SQ9000 but I’m picking up on some concerns in your post that might be settled by looking at these other few machines. Let me know if I just made it more confusing. 😉
Sincerely,
Erin
thanks so much, im going to do some reserch on the models that you gave me, ill let your know what i do, thanks again Dee
Hi Erin, I am not sure which one to choose (SQ9050 at walmart or CP-7500 costs only $8 more at costco). Any more information on which one to choose, the main differences and pros/cons between these two models would be greatly appreciated!
erin, HI well after lots of reaserch I HAVE decided on the brother cp7500 it has all the stiches i want and everything i need for quilting and at a great price! my daughter is going to be super happy she gets my old singer, It still going strong so she will have years to go, thank you for your time and information, you really helped me a alot. DEE
I’m excited for you AND your daughter! Sounds like you’ll both be able to explore new territory! 😉 Glad I could help. Have fun!
Sincerely,
Erin
Apologies if this is a double post, but I think I attached this question to the wrong page earlier today.
I’m considering an SQ9050 vs a CP7500. I work with a lot of heavier fabrics (canvas, denim, corduroy) and I’m interested in quilting but haven’t started yet. The features of the two machines seem similar on paper, and the prices I’m seeing are similar. I know you’re a fan of the 7500, but I’m interested in knowing whether all your comments about the 9000 apply equally to the 9050 and whether there are reasons to prefer the 7500 or the 9050 that might not show up on the spec sheets. Thanks!
While our beneficent hostess was out buying her fetching new hat, I went ahead and bought the SQ9050 at my local Walmart. I can’t offer a test report yet, but if anyone wants to know what’s in the box, it includes:
Instructional DVD (plus written manual and quick-start)
Foot control pedal
Wide “quilting” table extension
10 feet: walking, overcasting, zigzag, blind stitch, monogramming, zipper,
buttonhole, button fitting, 1/4″ quilting, and spring action quilting.
Needles: standard set plus ballpoint and twin
Tools: seam ripper, cleaning brush, screwdriver, eyelet punch
4 bobbins
1 extra spool pin
There’s also something the box calls a “quilt guide for foot holder” that is for now a complete mystery to me.
What it doesn’t include is any sort of enclosure, not a case, a cover, just a litte cozy, nothing. So plan accordingly (unlike me).
Best of the holidays!
–Jackie
Hello Erin – What a great service you provide – thank you for your vast knowledge & contribution!
I am torn between SQ9000 (w.case/auto-threading/needle cutter) & SQ9050 & have just read all the exchanges + many consumer reviews on Walmart site etc. Had been sewing on a Singer Featherweight since grade school, but 4 years ago, could no longer thread the needle due to declining eyesight & have gone w.o. a sewing machine for basic repairs and possible inspiration to start sewing again…
I would like a machine with; 1) auto-threading, 2) auto-needle cutter, 3) see-through bobbin case…
Does SQ9050 have these 3 features & a handle on top?
Sincerely, Laura
p.s. from Laura:
Also, which of the 2 machines (SQ9000 vs. SQ9050) is easier to use and has easiest to understand/nicest displays and front of machine guides/graphics? It appears that the SQ9000 has option for large quilting arm, where SQ9050 does not…
Thanks Again,
Laura
Did you ever find out the difference? I am looking at both machines. Please help!
CJ
I had a BASIC singer and used it till it couldn’t be repaired anymore (guess it was around 15-20 yrs old). I bought a brother in 2003 and I seem to be having problems with it. I’ve had it serviced and it came back the same to me. It skips stitches, the zig zag is not a true zig zag, it’s like the tension is off. Nothing happens when I adjust the tension. It eats the fabric when you just start out sewing a seam. I’m constantly having to rethread the machine every 5 min or so. Even though the feed dogs are in the “up” position, I’m having to force the fabric through it sometimes. When I “back stitch” I end up with a rats nest. SO, I’m considering the Brother SQ9050, but I’m wondering if it will end up with similar problems after a year or so. I’ve been sewing over 30 yrs and have used many machines….I’m torn between teh brother sq9050 and the singer 7258. As much as I hate to, I’m leaning towards the brother because I can go to my local walmart and the singer has to be ordered. I sew heavy fabrics (corduroy, sherpa suede, denim, and several skirt layers at once) at times and need something durable. Also, I have a brother PR 620 embroidery machine and even after having it serviced, it’s loud to where I can’t even talk in the same room when it’s running. I’m disappointed with that.
Please advise
Hello!
I’m glad I found this site as it was helpful in finding out about newer sewing machines. I ended up getting the SQ9050 for Christmas and wanted to know if you had any info about side cutters that work well/fit with it. Many many years ago I moved from the east coast to the west and my old machine and serger were left with my parents because I couldn’t move them. I’ve been wanting a new machine for years so I’m really excited about trying this out (my old machine was from the late 70s). However, I can’t afford to shell out for a new serger just yet. I found from doing research that they have cutter feet and you can essentially turn your machine into a basic serger (not as good as the real deal, but better than just cutting a zigzag). I have no idea which cutter feet are good, and which ones will actually work with the sq9050. I figured I’d ask the experts as I’ve never used a cutter before. Hopefully someone has a good idea. In the meantime I get to be amazed at having more than 4 types of stitches! Thanks in advance!
Hi all,
I really love my SQ9000. Now for a little bit of a silly question: The hard cover “case”/lid has a styrofoam insert in it. Does this stay or do you remove it???? Cannot fid the answer anywhere, hope someone here can help!
Thanks and happy sewing!
So the answer to my question is the styrofoam remains in the lid, in case anyone else out there was wondering.
I have owned the SQ-9000 for about a year now, and have never oiled it. I’m beginning to wonder if I should-every once in awhile it makes an odd cluck or whirring noise. I know the manual says to take it to a retailer and have them do it, but does anyone do it on their own? I know the bottom part is fine, its the upper section that seems to make noise.
Other than not being able to preform maintenance on this machine, I love it to pieces! I recommend it to any beginner learning to sew, as well as anyone with more experience.
Anyone?
Hi Erin,
Im completely and absolutely new to sewing, and I was trying to do some research on sewing machines for beginners. It seems to me that computerized sewing machines provide more options in types of stitches, but I’m not entirely sure about all the other extra functions it has, they seem a bit confusing. I really need something that is easy to thread, and has a speed regulator, easy to use so i can experiment with it and not be completely overwhelmed by it.
I’m really trying to stay in the 100-200 dollar budget, and i would only use it for sewing a few dresses, curtains, pillows, making hems, sewing upholstery fabric and perhaps making something for my childs room (sheets, clothes, etc). I would also like to attempt sewing leather, to upholster a few chairs, but its not completely necessary (and I dont believe i can get that funcion withing this price range).
I dont care much for “extra” accessories (the type i cant carry on a plane, i will be carrying this across the border to my home in Cancun so a sewing table is out of the question).
If you could point me in the right direction it would be much appreciated!
Thanks ahead of time!
Hello! I’m so glad I came across your site…It’s really helpful! I have been looking for a sewing machine and have narrowed down my choices to the Singer Confidence Quilter 7469Q ,the Brother SQ9050 or the Brother SQ9000….However I was wondering what the differences are between the Brother SQ9050 and the Brother SQ9000?…I haven’t been able to find a review for the Brother SQ9050 on your site so I’m assuming you don’t have one at this time….also of the between the machines that I have narrowed it down to which would you choose? I know the Brother is cheaper than the Singer but it seems to have just as many features and I can’t decide for sure which one I want…I’m leaning toward the Brother but I would like to hear what you say about which one you would consider the better machine…Thanks Lots!
Bethany – I’m glad you found my site, too! 😉
Funny you should ask about the Brother SQ9050. Just last week, I went to the local Walmart to see which sewing machines they had on the shelf. I do this periodically to stay on top of any trends and look at any new machines. What did I notice on the shelf? The Brother SQ9050. I had not yet done a full review for my site however I’ve just run through a full comparison so I can tell you exactly what differences exist.
First, the biggest difference is price – at least online. It doesn’t look like either Walmart or Amazon are carrying the SQ9000 anymore but you can see the online price for the other here – Brother SQ9050 Price
.
The Brother SQ9050 costs less unless you can still find the SQ9000 at a store near you.
The only other differences between the two are the number of built-in stitches and stitch functions. The Brother SQ9050 comes with 100 built in stitches vs 80 on the SQ9000 and comes with 140 stitch functions (which is variations of built-in stitches) while the SQ9000 has only 120.
The stitches on the SQ9050 include ALL of the stitches that come on the SQ9000 plus 20 more that are a mix of decorative, satin, and cross-stitches.
Everything else is identical – the letter font, the included presser feet, the extra long extension table, the 7 point feed dog, weight and machine dimensions. The two sewing machines even have the same exact user manual. They even look exactly alike except that the drop down stitch reference guide shows the additional 20 stitches.
Now, between the Brother SQ9000 or SQ9050 and the Singer 7469Q, there are a couple of other differences. The 7469Q does not have a letter font, has a six point feed dog instead of seven, and comes with two fewer presser feet (it doesn’t have the monogramming foot or the overcasting foot). However, it does have one button stitch selection for a few of the most used stitches which the two Brother machines do not have. This means that on the Singer, for frequent stitches like straight and zigzag, you just have to push a single button to get to that stitch rather than cycle through the stitch patterns as you’ll do on the Brother machines.
The other significant difference is size. The Singer 7469Q is heaver and larger. The Brother SQ machines are fairly small and light weight. There’s almost a 7 pound weight difference.
User ratings on all three machines are nearly identical.
If you don’t need the letter font and want a machine that’s large enough not to get bowled over by oversized quilt projects, then I’d go with the Singer 7469Q. If, however, you want the font, go with the Brother SQ9050 but place non-skid material or a self-healing cutting mat under the sewing machine so that it won’t slide around while you work.
Thanks for the nudge I needed to get into the Brother SQ9050 details! Hope it’s what you were after. 🙂
Sincerely,
Erin
Oh thank you so much!!! It’s gonna be either between the Brother SQ9050 or the Singer 7469Q…I still haven’t decided for sure yet…thanks again for your help!!
Bethany – Would love to know which one you pick and how it works out for you when you’ve had time to “play”. 🙂
Good luck!
Sincerely,
Erin
Well I’m back..I decided to get the Brother SQ9050…I really like it but I am having some problems with the walking foot…I have been attempting to quilt on the machine using the walking foot and my stitches are coming out all different sizes…the machine is supposed to have adjustable pressure on the presser foot but I can’t figure out how to change it…I wanted to try adjusting it to see if that would help…
I was all set to purchase a Singer Quantum Stylist–but the darned bobbin was just too hard to thread! So a co-worker suggested that I look at a Brother machine, and I’m so glad I did! Last weekend my dear husband purchased the QS-9050 for me and I have been sewing away every since…I love this machine!
Ana – The machine you got is very popular and can handle a lot of projects. Glad you found something you like!
Sincerely,
Erin
Does this machine have a serge stitch?
Janiece,
No. On some Brother machines where the stitches might be marked with a little “S” in the corner, you can use a side cutter presser foot and those stitches to approximate a serger stitch but this one does not have this stitches.
Thanks!
Erin
I’m loving this site and well detailed reviews!
I am conflicted between choosing the Brother SQ-9000 and the Singer 7469Q. Reading many reviews and specs. in my searches, all are saying that the Brother does not have automatic but rather manual tension. Am I to understand that the SQ9000 DOES have auto tension based on your review? So confused….thanx!
Jaunita – You’re right, the tension on this model is manual. I’ve corrected my review so that it now shows that information. Thanks for catching that!
Sincerely,
Erin
Erin,
Hi! Thank you so much for your website. What a treasure trove of information you’ve shared here! I appreciate it immensely. I have a question. I’m trying to decide between the SQ9050 and the CS6000i. I primarily sew clothing, along with some gifts/crafts items, like totebags, table runners, etc. I don’t sew quilts. The SQ9050 looks a little bigger (?) which appeals to me, and (very subjective I know!), it looks prettier, too. But it seems that the CS6000i has been around much, MUCH longer, so I don’t know if the SQ9050 is as sturdy in the long run as the 6000i has proven itself to be. And then to throw in an outlier – – there’s the CS5055PRW. It doesn’t have as many stitches as the 9050, nor does it have the table, but it says on Brother’s site, in its description, that the sewist will “Experience virtually effortless sewing on denim, tweed and other thick fabrics with the exceptional feed system.” This made me wonder if the other two machines were possibly not as good at handling all sorts of fabric types and if perhaps they did not have an “exceptional feed system.” What do you think?
Thank you “sew” much!
Okay, looking to purchase a new sewing machine. I’m looking at the Brother CP7500 and the Brother SQ9050. I want to be able to do some quilting with the machine, as well as basic sewing. I’ve looked at reviews until I’m blue in the face 🙁 and I just need to know which one is the better buy? Which one has more room in the throat area? I want the best for my bucks….Help…..thanks!
Blessings!
Hi, I am a quilter and I am wondering how big the decorative quilting designs can go. I would like to do quilting patterns, and would like the designs to be at least 2 to 3 inchs big.
Thanks.
Hi,
I have the SQ9050 and have had nothing but trouble. I have had to take it a part several times thread breaks gets stuck in the machine or it gets tangled up around the bobin. This is the second Brother I have bought the first one lasted 2 weeks. I will not buy another. I am beginer quilter only working on small project such as crib size right now. I am looking to move up to a different machine. Suggestions that won’t break the bank that is not Brother?
Thank,
Kathy
Kathy, I’ve got two ideas for you. First is the Janome DC1050 (https://www.erinsayssew.com/janome-dc1050-sewing-machine-review/). It costs a little more, you’d lose the letter stitches and some decorative stitches but it’s a solid machine and a great brand.
The other option is the Singer 7258 (https://www.erinsayssew.com/singer-7258-sewing-machine-review/). Again, you’d lose the letter stitches but it has a great set of decorative stitches, lots of the same option you had on the SQ9050, and excellent performance. It’s also priced about the same.
Neither of those two options come with an extension table although you can usually order a custom one if necessary.
I lied – I have a 3rd option! It costs a little more but I just think this machine is such an outstanding deal that you should at least take a look. The Singer 9960 usually costs around $400 but I found someone on Amazon selling factory serviced versions for just over $300 here: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00D2YZF7E/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00D2YZF7E&linkCode=as2&tag=sewingmach0b-20.
I’ve done a full review of the Singer 9960 here: https://www.erinsayssew.com/singer-9960-quantum-stylist-review/
Let me know if you have something else in mind and want me to take a look at it.
Thanks!
Sincerely,
Erin
I have had the SQ-9000 for a couple of years and I truly love it. I’ve made MANY quilts on it (the big quilts can be a pain because the machine is light and easy to move), every day sewing, worked with felt too… it’s great. But now I’m ready to move into the super scary free motion quilting…
The problem is: the foot I bought screws onto the post from the forward position – not the side like my machine is set up. Is there a specific foot number/part that would work best? I’m already slightly freaked about trying a very new and scary approach (beyond my lovely little straight lines).
Can you steer me in the right direction???
I need to buy two pieces for the Brother machine SQ9000, and nobody knows inform me which site I can find. Can someone help me?
XE8695001 NEEDLE BAR SUPPORTER ASSY
and
XE3827001 NEEDLE CLAMP SCREW
Thanks.
do I need to remove the styrofoam that is inside the cover
Veronica – I believe so. That’s probably just for packing purposes. Try pulling on it gently to remove it. Certain types of styrofoam (like that for packing products in boxes) can shed lots of little pieces and wouldn’t be safe to leave over your machine while it’s covered. However, if it’s very firm styrofoam that doesn’t appear the kind that shreds and if it’s very firmly attached it may be the manufacturer’s buffer to keep the top inside of the cover from scratching the machine in some way.
My sister and I just bought a Brother SM8270 and it comes with a hard case, with that white styrofoam in the top, pretty firmly secured, cannot get it out by gently pulling. It is the exact same styrofoam the rest of the machine was packed in, nothing special. My concern is that the styrofoam is going to deteriorate over time and that little pieces of it will break off into the machine. I don’t want to void my warranty or render my hard case useless by removing that foam, but I don’t trust that styrofoam to hold up over time.
When you put the hard case on the machine, it kind of perches there, a tiny bit wobbly, not really a secure fit, and sits about an inch above the table, like it could stand to go down a bit more. And the hard case has a cut out in one side of the top which almost aligns with the machine’s recessed “handle”, but it could also stand to go down a bit farther and you would still be able to pick up the machine by its handle with the hard on the machine, even if you did remove that foam.
Yet, there are two cut outs in that foam to accommodate the bobbin spindle and another metal piece, so it makes me think the company intended the foam to stay there. Still, I do not like that foam being there to the point that I think I am going to pry it out, even if I have to break it up, AFTER I am sure I am keeping the machine. I want the case to go all the way down to the table, providing as much dust protection to the machine as possible. I might compensate for the missing styrofoam by replacing it with a 1/2″ layer or so of some upholstery foam covered in some type of fabric.
Sorry to go on about this, but it annoyed me to think that Brother would be so cheap as to put plain old everyday styrofoam in the top of a machine cover and not have the foresight to think it would chip and break and get into the machine over time. And, if the company did not intend for the foam to stay in the in the hard case, permanently, why in the world did they make it almost impossible to get it out of there?? Ok, said my piece! Thanks for listening….