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Over the years, I’ve owned several Brother sewing machines, each offering its own unique benefits. Among them, the Brother DBII lockstitch industrial sewing machine stood out as my favorite. It was a powerhouse of reliability and efficiency, and I cherished it for many years. However, when I left London, I decided to pass it on to someone else who could benefit from its remarkable capabilities.
Recently, many of my readers have been reaching out with questions about beginner-friendly sewing machines. This prompted me to explore options for those just starting their sewing journey. With a focus on affordability, I decided to purchase another Brother machine, but this time with a twist—I wanted to see if one of my favorite brands could deliver a quality entry-level machine without breaking the bank.
Armed with a budget-conscious mindset, I set out to find a basic sewing machine that cost just $100. My goal was to put this machine through its paces and see if it could meet the needs of beginners while maintaining Brother’s reputation for quality.
So grab a cup of tea, friends, and join me as I dive into an in-depth review of this budget-friendly model. I’ll explore its features, performance, and overall value to help you decide if it’s the right fit for your sewing adventures. Whether you’re new to sewing or looking for an affordable option, this review will provide insights into what you can expect from a basic Brother sewing machine.
The Brother Machine
The Brother SM1400 / LS14S is a basic mechanical sewing machine that stands out as an excellent choice for beginners. Known in the US as the SM1400 and in the UK as the LS14S, this machine offers the same functionality with just different decorative details on the shell. It’s considered one of the best low-cost sewing machines available from a reputable brand like Brother.

Why Choose the Brother SM1400 / LS14S?
When you’re new to sewing, you don’t need a machine loaded with all the bells and whistles, like an automatic needle threader or hundreds of decorative stitches. Those features are typically found in computerized sewing machines, which are more suitable once you’ve developed your skills and are committed to sewing long-term.
For beginners, the Brother SM1400 / LS14S is ideal due to its straightforward features. It’s one of the most affordable sewing machines from a well-known brand, making it a perfect entry-level option.
Key Features
- Metal Chassis: The machine has a metal chassis at its core, providing durability and stability. While the outer housing is plastic, which makes it lightweight and easy to move, it still offers a solid feel.
- 14 Stitch Options: With 14 built-in stitch options, this machine covers all the basics needed for general sewing projects. It’s simple enough for beginners to use without feeling overwhelmed.
Metal Chassis

I used a Bernina 1008 for many years, and one of the things I loved about it was its all-metal construction. Sure, it made the machine heavy, but it also gave it the solid feel of a true workhorse. Unfortunately, Bernina recently discontinued this model.
The Brother SM1400 / LS14S shares a similar characteristic with its all-metal chassis at the core. This provides a reassuring solidity, although the outer housing is plastic. For a first sewing machine, this combination is perfectly acceptable.
Benefits and Drawbacks
The metal chassis combined with a plastic housing offers several advantages. It makes the machine significantly lighter than many others, allowing you to easily pick it up with just one hand. This lightweight design is perfect for beginners who might need to move the machine around frequently or have limited space.
However, the downside is that the plastic housing can give the machine a somewhat cheap feel. While it’s budget-friendly, picking it up incorrectly might make you worry about damaging the top of the machine. Despite this, for those starting out in sewing, the Brother SM1400 / LS14S provides an excellent balance between durability and portability.
While the Brother SM1400 / LS14S may not have the all-metal construction of more expensive models like the Bernina 1008, its metal chassis ensures stability and reliability. The lightweight design makes it easy to transport and use in various settings. For beginners or anyone seeking an affordable yet dependable sewing machine, this model is a fantastic choice that won’t disappoint.
Portability

As mentioned earlier, the lightweight design of this mechanical sewing machine makes it significantly more portable than many other models marketed at higher price points. Weighing in at just under 13 pounds (5 kg), it’s easy to lift from floor level to table height. This portability is perfect for moving the machine from room to room or taking it with you to sewing classes and meet-ups.
In the sewing photos below, you’ll notice that I didn’t even bother setting up a table for the sewing machine; instead, I sewed with it right on the box it came in. This flexibility is a testament to its ease of use and portability.
One thing to note is that the machine doesn’t come with any kind of case or cover, nor does it have an extending handle like my Bernina. Instead, there’s a ‘cut-out’ handle. I place my thumb in that cut-out area, and the rest of my hand wraps around the top of the machine with my fingers in the throat area. This grip provides more support when carrying the sewing machine.
Overall, the Brother SM1400 / LS14S’s lightweight design and portability make it an excellent choice for those who need a versatile and easy-to-transport sewing machine. Whether you’re sewing at home or on the go, this model offers convenience without sacrificing functionality.
14 Stitch Options

One of my favorite features of the Brother SM1400 / LS14S sewing machine is its simplicity, with only 14 stitch options. As someone with extensive experience using various sewing machines, it’s easy to get caught up in models boasting numerous built-in stitches and embroidery designs. However, when you’re just starting your sewing journey, you’ll find that you only need a handful of essential stitches.
Key Stitch Options
- Four-Step buttonhole: This includes steps 1a, 1b, 1c, and 1d, allowing for easy buttonhole creation.
- Zigzag Stitches: Offers narrow, standard, and wide zigzag options, along with three adjustable lengths for versatility.
- Straight Stitches: Includes smallest, small, medium, standard, and longest lengths in the central needle position. There’s also a standard length with a left needle position for zippers.
- Blind Hem Stitch: Useful if you purchase a blind hem foot, as it’s not supplied.
- Stretch Stitch: Ideal for stretchy fabrics.
- Decorative Finish Stitch: Adds a touch of flair to your projects.
While this selection may seem basic, these stitches are all you really need when learning to sew. As you progress in your sewing skills, you can explore more advanced machines with additional features.
Reverse Sewing
This machine also includes a simple reverse sewing option. Unlike modern computerized machines with a button for this function, the Brother SM1400 / LS14S has an easy-to-use plastic reverse button that you press and hold to sew backward and release to sew forward.
Overall, the Brother SM1400 / LS14S provides the essential stitches needed for beginners without overwhelming them with unnecessary options. It’s an excellent choice for those new to sewing who want a straightforward machine to help them learn the basics.
Reverse Sewing

All sewing machines include a backstitch or reverse sewing option, and the Brother SM1400 / LS14S is no exception. While modern computerized machines often feature a simple button for this function, this mechanical model uses a straightforward plastic reverse button. You simply press and hold it to sew backward and release it to sew forward. It’s intuitive and effective, making it easy for beginners to secure their stitches without any fuss. This feature is essential for reinforcing seams and ensuring your projects have a professional finish, demonstrating that even basic machines can offer the functionality needed for quality sewing.
Tension Dial

To adjust the tension of your sewing machine’s top thread, you’ll need to use the tension dial. Typically, normal tension settings range from 3 to 5, but if further adjustments are necessary, the dial can be set as low as 0 and as high as 9. It’s important to test the tension on scrap fabric for each project to ensure that your stitches are properly balanced. If you’re unfamiliar with sewing machine tension, you can explore resources like instructional articles or videos to gain a better understanding.
Understanding Sewing Machine Tension
Thread tension refers to how tightly the spool and bobbin threads are pulled through the machine. Achieving the ideal tension means that the bobbin thread stays on the bottom of your project while the spool thread remains on top. Mechanical sewing machines require manual tension adjustments for each stitch, whereas computerized models often adjust tension automatically.
Adjusting Tension
If you encounter tension issues, it’s recommended to remove and re-insert the bobbin. If problems persist, try rewinding a fresh bobbin before altering any tension settings. This approach helps prevent forgetting to reset the top thread tension when switching stitches.
Tips for Proper Tension
- Ensure correct threading: Incorrect threading is a common cause of tension problems.
- Use all thread guides: Proper use of thread guides prevents messy stitches.
- Adjust gradually: Turn the tension dial in small increments, as even slight changes can impact tension.
By understanding and adjusting your sewing machine’s tension correctly, you can achieve beautifully balanced stitches that enhance your sewing projects.
Thread Cutter

While the Brother SM1400 / LS14S doesn’t feature an automatic thread cutter, it does have a convenient sharp blade located on the far left side of the machine. This blade is designed to give your working threads a clean cut. Although I only used it once to take a photo and demonstrate its functionality, it’s not because the blade is lacking in any way—it’s just that I personally prefer using scissors to cut my threads.
Thread Cutting Options
- Built-in Blade: The integrated blade provides a quick and efficient way to cut threads without needing additional tools. It’s especially handy when you want to keep your sewing area tidy and free from loose threads.
- Scissors: Many sewists, including myself, prefer using scissors for cutting threads as they offer more control and precision, especially when working with delicate fabrics or intricate projects.
Choosing Your Method
Ultimately, whether you use the built-in blade or scissors comes down to personal preference. Both options effectively get the job done, so you can choose whichever method feels most comfortable and convenient for you. Having multiple options ensures that you can adapt to different sewing scenarios and maintain clean, professional-looking work.
Bobbin

The Brother SM1400 / LS14S makes filling and loading the bobbin a straightforward process. The bobbin is filled using a peg located on the top of the machine. Once filled, it is placed in the drop-in bobbin house situated just below the needle.
Loading the Bobbin
- Drop-in Bobbin System: This top-loading system is less fiddly than side-loading bobbins, making it easier for beginners to manage. The clear view cover allows you to easily see how much thread remains on your bobbin, preventing unexpected interruptions during your sewing projects.
- Guiding the Thread: The bobbin thread is guided along using instructions printed on the plastic cover, as shown in the photo below. While some might find this tricky at first, I personally had no issues following the guide. The clear instructions make it simple to ensure that the thread is correctly positioned for smooth operation.
Advantages of Top-Loading Bobbins
The top-loading bobbin system offers several benefits:
- Ease of Use: It’s generally easier to load and less prone to tangling compared to side-loading systems.
- Visibility: The clear cover provides a quick visual check of your thread supply, so you can avoid running out mid-seam.
By simplifying the bobbin loading process, the Brother SM1400 / LS14S helps ensure a smoother sewing experience, especially for those new to sewing.

The Brother SM1400 / LS14S is a great option for those new to sewing, offering simplicity and affordability. While loading and threading the bobbin might seem tricky at first, with a little practice, you’ll get the hang of it. The top-loading bobbin system is designed to be user-friendly, reducing the hassle often associated with side-loading bobbins. This feature allows you to easily monitor your thread supply and make adjustments as needed.
If you’ve decided that this beginner-friendly sewing machine is right for you, it can be purchased in the US through various retailers. It’s known by different names globally, such as the LS14S in the UK and SM1400 in the US, but offers the same reliable performance across all regions.
The machine’s lightweight design makes it easy to transport, whether you’re moving it from room to room or taking it to a sewing class. Despite its simplicity, it includes essential stitches and features that cater to everyday sewing needs. The Brother SM1400 / LS14S is an excellent choice for those looking to start their sewing journey without investing in a more complex or expensive machine.
Included Accessories For Brother SM1400 / LS14S
That’s about it for the actual sewing machine itself, so let’s dive into the accessories that come with the Brother SM1400 / LS14S. This machine includes a small selection of presser feet, which are more than adequate for the types of projects you’ll tackle as a beginner.
Included Accessories
- Standard Presser Foot: Ideal for most general sewing tasks, this foot will be your go-to for everyday projects.
- Zipper Foot: Perfect for sewing zippers into garments, this foot helps you achieve a neat and professional finish.
- Buttonhole Foot: Essential for creating buttonholes, this foot simplifies the process and ensures consistent results.
Getting Started with Your Sewing Projects
These basic presser feet provide everything you need to start exploring various sewing techniques. As you gain more experience and confidence, you might consider expanding your collection of presser feet to include specialized options for more advanced projects. However, for beginners, the included accessories are perfectly suited to help you learn and grow your sewing skills.
The Brother SM1400 / LS14S offers a great foundation for those new to sewing, providing both the tools and features necessary to embark on a successful sewing journey.

When you purchase a sewing machine, it often comes with a variety of accessories to help you get started on your sewing journey. Here’s a rundown of the essential accessories that come with many machines, including the Brother SM1400 / LS14S:
Bobbins
Your machine likely came with one bobbin already in the bobbin housing area and three more in a plastic packet. These are the clear plastic variety, which differ from the metal bobbins used in some other machines like my Bernina. The clear bobbins make it easy to see how much thread is left, helping you avoid running out mid-seam.
Buttonhole Foot
The buttonhole foot is designed for creating buttonholes using the four-step buttonhole function. It’s a standard accessory that allows you to make precise and consistent buttonholes. I’ll guide you through how to use it further down.
Screwdriver
While it might not be a traditional screwdriver, this flat piece of metal included with your machine is perfect for adjusting certain parts, like modifying the left-hand side stitch line of the buttonhole. Presser feet snap on, so there’s no need for a more substantial tool for attaching and detaching them.
Zigzag Foot
This is the standard foot that most sewing machines come with, already clipped on and ready to sew. It has an opening that allows the needle to move side to side for zigzag and decorative stitches, but you can also sew in a straight line. Depending on where you purchase your machine, the presser foot may be plastic or metal.
Zipper Foot
Used for inserting zippers, this presser foot helps achieve a neat finish. However, it may not work perfectly for concealed or invisible zippers since it’s designed to sit on one side of the zipper’s teeth, and this machine only offers stitching options to the left.
These accessories are designed to cover most of your basic sewing needs, making them perfect for beginners who are just getting started. As you become more experienced, you might want to expand your collection of presser feet and other tools to tackle more advanced projects.
Optional Accessories For Brother SM1400 / LS14S
At its price point, the Brother SM1400 / LS14S comes with a minimal set of accessories, which is common for many sewing machines today. Over the years, I’ve spent quite a bit on additional accessories for my Bernina, so it’s no surprise that the Brother includes only the basics. Let’s explore some optional accessories you might consider purchasing to enhance your sewing experience with this machine.
Blind Hem Foot
While the Brother SM1400 / LS14S includes a blind hem stitch (option 12 on the stitch type dial), it doesn’t come with a blind hem foot. This makes sense, as I’ve only used the one that came with my Bernina a few times each year. Although not essential, a blind hem foot can be useful if you plan to do a lot of hemming work.
Concealed / Invisible Zipper Foot
If you intend to sew concealed zippers, you’ll need to purchase a concealed or invisible zipper foot separately. Many beginners find sewing these zippers challenging, but having the right foot can make the process easier and more precise.
Investing in these optional accessories can expand your sewing capabilities and allow you to tackle more complex projects with confidence. As you grow more experienced, you’ll likely find these additions valuable for achieving professional-quality results in your sewing endeavors.
Sewing With The SM1400 / LS14s
I have to be honest—I wasn’t expecting much from the Brother SM1400 / LS14S sewing machine, mainly because I’m accustomed to using more expensive options. However, this machine truly surprised me with its performance, especially when it handled three layers of denim with ease. I was stunned!
Performance with Denim
Despite its lightweight design, weighing just 13 pounds (5 kg), the Brother SM1400 / LS14S proved to be a capable machine. It managed to sew through multiple layers of denim without any distress, demonstrating its robustness for a mechanical model at this price point. The needle supplied, a size 90/14, was perfect for the task, and I used both straight and zigzag stitches without encountering any issues.
Portability and Design
Lifting the machine upon delivery, I was surprised by how light it felt. This is something to be aware of if you order it online and plan to give it as a gift—the packaging is fully visible. The machine’s light weight makes it easy to move around, but it’s important to note that the handle is merely a cut-out in the plastic casing. Placing my thumb in this section and wrapping my hand under the arm of the sewing machine provided a more secure grip.
Ease of Use
As a mechanical sewing machine, the Brother SM1400 / LS14S requires some initial learning to thread correctly and understand its stitch functions. The diagrams on the machine are well-marked with directional arrows, making threading straightforward. A large single-page instruction sheet is also provided for guidance.

When I lifted the Brother SM1400 / LS14S upon delivery, I was pleasantly surprised by how light the box felt. It’s important to note that it was delivered with the packaging fully visible, which is something to keep in mind if you plan to order it online as a gift. The minimal packaging inside had little impact on the overall weight, highlighting that this sewing machine is not heavy-duty—and that’s perfectly fine for its intended use.
Lightweight and Portable
Weighing just 13 pounds (5 kg), this machine is incredibly easy to lift and move around. Despite its lightweight design, it felt stable and didn’t rattle when I increased the sewing speed using the foot pedal. This balance between weight and stability makes it ideal for beginners or those who need a portable sewing solution.
Handle Design
One thing to be aware of is the ‘handle’ used to lift the machine. It’s simply a cut-out in the top of the plastic casing, which can feel a bit flimsy. I found that placing my thumb in this section and wrapping my hand under the ‘arm’ of the sewing machine provided a much more secure grip when lifting it.
Ease of Use
As a mechanical sewing machine, the main learning curve involves threading it correctly and understanding the various stitch functions. The machine’s design includes clear diagrams with directional arrows, making threading straightforward. Once you get used to these basics, you’ll find it easy to operate.
Overall, the Brother SM1400 / LS14S offers a great combination of portability and functionality, making it an excellent choice for beginners or anyone looking for a lightweight sewing machine that doesn’t compromise on performance.

To thread the Brother SM1400 / LS14S sewing machine, you should follow the diagrams printed directly on the machine. These diagrams are well-marked with directional arrows that guide you through the threading process and loading the bobbin correctly. Additionally, the machine comes with a large single-page instruction sheet that provides step-by-step guidance, making it easier for beginners to get started.
Stitching with the Brother SM1400 / LS14S
I’ve already discussed the stitch options earlier, so now I’ll share some photos of the various stitches sewn on this machine. I used 100% cotton for testing different stitch types and the four-step buttonhole. While the buttonholes aren’t perfect, considering this is a $99 machine, they perform adequately. I discovered that using the small enclosed ‘screwdriver’ to tighten the buttonhole tension (via a small hole next to the stitch dial containing a screw) can achieve a tighter stitch length on the left side of the buttonhole.
However, this adjustment doesn’t affect the right side’s stitch length, so some maneuvering is required to make both sides look uniform.
Threading Tips
- Bobbin Loading: The bobbin is filled using a peg on top of the machine and then placed in the drop-in bobbin house below the needle. This top-loading system is less fiddly than side-loading bobbins and allows you to easily see how much thread remains.
- Threading Process: Ensure your needle is in the up position before threading. Follow the diagrams carefully, using both hands to guide and ‘floss’ the thread through each guide and lever. This helps maintain proper tension and prevents tangling.
With practice, threading this machine becomes straightforward, allowing you to focus on your sewing projects without frustration. The Brother SM1400 / LS14S offers a user-friendly experience for beginners looking to explore sewing without investing in more complex or expensive machines.



Finally, I put the Brother SM1400 / LS14S to the test by repairing a few areas on my favorite denim jeans. Denim is a heavier-weight fabric that many people end up sewing with, so it seemed like an appropriate choice for testing the machine’s capabilities.
Performance with Denim
The needle supplied with the machine, a size 90/14, was definitely up to the task. I used a range of straight and zigzag stitches without encountering any issues. Even when working on the waistband of my jeans, which is patchwork with thick elastic, the sewing machine handled these heavier fabrics without distress. This performance demonstrated the machine’s ability to manage challenging materials effectively.
Work Area and Free Arm
One thing that surprised me was how small the ‘work area’ is on this sewing machine. As you can see in the photo below, there was just enough space for my hand. Initially, I thought I would need to be more mindful of the amount of fabric placed in the throat area, but in practice, it wasn’t an issue—even with the bulk of denim jeans.
However, one downside was the free arm feature. The part that can be removed to make the work area smaller for sleeves and hems was so narrow that it made very little difference. This limitation might be something to consider if you frequently work on smaller or more intricate projects.
Conclusion
Overall, the Brother SM1400 / LS14S impressed me with its ability to handle denim and other heavy fabrics with ease. Despite its compact work area and limited free arm functionality, it remains a solid choice for beginners or those looking for an affordable sewing machine that can tackle everyday sewing tasks. Whether you’re mending jeans or working on new projects, this machine offers reliable performance without breaking the bank.

Why It’s The Best Beginner Sewing Machine
Overall, the Brother SM1400 / LS14S is a very good sewing machine for the price. It’s not necessarily the best choice for someone who has been sewing for a while, as you might find yourself wanting more functionality than this basic model provides. However, it offers enough features to satisfy the needs of someone eager to learn to sew.
Ideal for Beginners
One of the biggest selling points of this machine is its ease of use, making it an excellent choice for beginners. The straightforward design and simple stitch options allow new sewists to focus on learning the basics without being overwhelmed by unnecessary features. It’s perfect for those just starting their sewing journey and looking for a reliable, budget-friendly option.
Future-Proofing Your Sewing Journey
The best part? Once your skills have progressed and you’re ready to upgrade, the Brother SM1400 / LS14S can easily serve as a backup sewing machine. Its lightweight design and portability make it convenient to keep on hand for quick repairs or as a secondary machine in your sewing space.
In summary, this machine offers great value for beginners who want to dive into sewing without a significant financial commitment. It provides a solid foundation for learning and can continue to be useful even as your sewing skills advance.
I.C. – thecreativecurator
Check all article List - Best Sewing Machine | Review of All Sewing Machine | Sewing Tips | Textile | Accessories | How to