Check all article List - Best Sewing Machine | Review of All Sewing Machine | Sewing Tips | Textile | Accessories | How to
The Brother SM1704 sewing machine, with its lightweight and full-size design, is a versatile and accessible tool ideal for a broad spectrum of sewing tasks. Offering 17 utility and decorative stitches, this machine adeptly handles everything from basic repairs to more creative sewing projects. Its user-friendly interface, characterized by a straightforward stitch selection dial, makes it a breeze to switch between functions, enhancing its appeal to sewers of varying skills and experience.
This machine is not just about the number of stitches; it’s about thoughtful features that enhance the sewing experience. The tension control dial allows for precise adjustment of the thread tension, ensuring smooth stitching on different types of fabric. The reverse sewing lever adds to the machine’s versatility, enabling easy reinforcement of stitch ends which is crucial for securing seams.
[su_label type=”black”]People Also Read: Brother XR9550PRW Sewing Machine[/su_label]
The inclusion of four sewing presser feet in the SM1704 package underscores its commitment to versatility. These feet are specifically designed to simplify common sewing tasks such as inserting zippers, creating buttonholes, sewing on buttons, and general sewing, making it a comprehensive tool for both novices and seasoned sewers.

Moreover, Brother has integrated a jam-resistant Quick-Set drop-in top bobbin system in the SM1704, which not only facilitates easy setup but also reduces the likelihood of sewing interruptions due to bobbin issues. The clear-view bobbin cover and bobbin enhance the convenience by allowing sewers to easily monitor their thread supply.
The automatic bobbin winding system is another standout feature, eliminating the often tedious task of manually winding the bobbin. Additionally, the machine’s free arm capability is especially useful for sewing round pieces like cuffs and sleeves, adding to its functionality. The Brother SM1704 sewing machine comes with practical accessories such as a twin needle, extra spool pin, and darning plate, further expanding its utility. The inclusion of user manuals in both English and Spanish ensures that a broader range of users can effectively operate and make the most of this machine.
Highlights of the Brother SM1704 Sewing Machine
- Built-in Stitches: Features 17 unique built-in stitches, catering to a variety of sewing needs, including a 4-step auto-size buttonhole for easy buttonhole making.
- Stitch Functions: Offers 38 stitch functions, providing versatility in sewing options for different projects.
- Sewing Feet: Includes 4 sewing feet (zigzag foot, zipper foot, buttonhole foot, button sewing foot), enhancing the machine’s capability to handle various sewing tasks efficiently.
- LED Work Area: The brightly lit LED work area facilitates clear visibility, especially beneficial for detailed sewing work.
- Free Arm Capability: The free arm feature is ideal for sewing cuffs and sleeves, making it easier to handle circular and tubular pieces.
Specifications of the Brother SM1704 Sewing Machine
- Dimensions: Measures 15.4 inches in height, 12.3 inches in width, and 6 inches in depth, providing a compact yet efficient size.
- Weight: Lightweight at 12.1 ounces, enhancing its portability and ease of use.
- Stitch Types: Includes a buttonhole stitch, allowing for the creation of buttonholes in a simple and efficient manner.
- Product Name: Brother SM1704 17-Stitch Free Arm Sewing Machine, indicating its main features and free arm sewing capability.
- Power Source: Electric, ensuring consistent power supply and performance.
- Battery: Does not require a battery, eliminating the need for battery changes or recharging.
- Warranty: Comes with a 25-year limited warranty, providing long-term assurance and support.
Included In the Box: Brother SM1704 Sewing Machine Package Contents

When you purchase the Brother SM1704 17-Stitch Lightweight Sewing Machine, you will find the following items included:
- Brother SM1704 Sewing Machine: The main unit is white, featuring 17 built-in stitches and a lightweight design for easy handling.
- Darning Plate: Assists with free-motion sewing like darning and quilting.
- 3-Piece Needle Set: Offers various needle sizes for different types of fabrics and projects.
- Twin Needle: Allows for two-thread sewing, perfect for hemming or adding a decorative touch.
- Extra Spool Pin: Useful for twin needle sewing or when using a second thread spool.
- 4 x Bobbins: Essential for holding the lower thread, ready to use with the sewing machine.
- Buttonhole Foot: For making buttonholes easily with the machine’s automatic or semi-automatic buttonhole function.
- Button Sewing Foot: Facilitates the attachment of buttons, saving time and effort.
- Zipper Foot: Designed for sewing zippers and other close-edged sewing tasks.
- Zigzag Foot: The standard foot used for most basic sewing tasks, including straight and zigzag stitches.
- Foot Controller: Allows you to control the sewing speed with your foot, giving you hands-free operation.
- Power Cord: Connects the sewing machine to an electrical outlet for power.
- Operation Manual and Instructional DVD: Provides detailed instructions on how to use the machine and its features, offering a visual and written guide to get started.
- Limited 25-Year Warranty: Ensures long-term support and service for the sewing machine.
Basic Features of the Brother SM1704 Sewing Machine
- Accessory Storage: Yes – Provides convenient storage space for accessories within the machine.
- Adjustable Presser Foot Pressure: No – The machine does not have the option to adjust the presser foot pressure.
- Adjustable Screen Brightness: No – Screen brightness is not adjustable.
- Automatic Thread Cutter: No – Does not include an automatic thread cutter feature.
- Built-in Languages: No – The machine does not have multi-language support.
- Built-In Memory: No – Lacks built-in memory for saving stitch patterns or designs.
- Feed Dog Points: 6 – Features six feed dog points for smoother fabric feeding.
- Included Accessory Feet: Comes with a buttonhole foot, button sewing foot, zipper foot, and zigzag foot.
- Lighting Type: LED – Provides bright and clear lighting over the work area.
- Memory Card Reader: No – The machine does not support memory card usage.
- Needle Position Key (Up/Down): No – No automatic needle up/down positioning feature.
- Needle Stop Position Up/Down: No – Needle stop position is not adjustable.
- Needle Threading System: Manual – The machine requires manual threading of the needle.
- Presser Foot Leveling: No – Does not have a presser foot leveling feature.
- Quick Set Bobbin: Yes – Features a quick set bobbin system for easy bobbin setup.
- Realistic Preview: No – Lacks the feature for previewing stitch patterns realistically before sewing.
- Screensaver: No – The machine does not have a screensaver function.
- Specialty Feet Included: Yes – Includes specialty feet for various sewing tasks.
- Start/Stop Button: No – This does not include a start/stop button for sewing without the foot controller.
- Thread Sensor: None – The machine does not have a thread sensor to alert when the thread is low or broken.
- Thread Sensor On/Off: No – No option to turn a thread sensor on or off.
- UL/CSA Listed: Yes – The machine is UL/CSA listed, indicating it meets safety standards.
- UL/CSA Listed Voltage: 110v – Designed for use with a 110v power supply.
- USB: No – Lacks USB connectivity for transferring designs or patterns.
- Wide Table Included: No – Does not come with an extended wide table for larger projects.
Dimensions and Weight of the Brother SM1704 Sewing Machine
Description | Measurement |
---|---|
Carton Dimensions | 7.600″ (W) x 17.250″ (D) x 13.800″ (H) |
Carton Weight | 11.800 lbs |
Unit Weight | 10.6 lbs |
The Brother SM1704 sewing machine is packaged in a carton measuring 7.600 inches in width, 17.250 inches in depth, and 13.800 inches in height. The total weight of the carton is 11.800 pounds. Once removed from the carton, the sewing machine weighs 10.6 pounds, making it a relatively lightweight and manageable unit for transport and setup.
Pros and Cons of the Brother SM1704 Sewing Machine

Pros
- Versatility in Stitches: With 17 built-in stitches, including utility and decorative options, it provides versatility for a range of sewing projects.
- Ease of Use: The stitch selection dial and the quick-set bobbin system make the machine user-friendly, particularly for beginners.
- Portability: Lightweight at 10.6 lbs, making it easy to transport, ideal for taking to classes or sewing groups.
- Included Accessories: Comes with four different sewing feet and other useful accessories, enhancing its functionality right out of the box.
- LED Lighting: The brightly lit work area is beneficial for sewing in different lighting conditions, ensuring precision in projects.
- Affordability: Offers good value for its price, making it an attractive option for those on a budget.
Cons
- Limited Advanced Features: Lacks some of the advanced features found in more expensive models, such as automatic thread cutting or adjustable presser foot pressure.
- Manual Needle Threading: The machine requires manual threading, which might be a downside for those who prefer an automatic needle threader.
- No Computer Connectivity: The absence of USB or memory card readers limits the possibility of using digital patterns directly with the machine.
- Restricted to Lighter Materials: This may not be suitable for handling very heavy or thick fabrics efficiently.
- No Adjustable Screen Brightness: The fixed brightness of the LCD screen might be challenging to view in very bright or dim lighting conditions.
Conclusion
The Brother SM1704 is a solid, budget-friendly sewing machine that delivers on the essentials, making it a great entry-level option for those new to sewing or those in need of a simple, effective machine for everyday sewing projects. Its balance of functionality, ease of use, and portability make it a commendable choice within its price range.
FAQs for the Brother SM1704 Sewing Machine
Is the Brother SM1704 suitable for beginners?
Yes, its ease of use, straightforward stitch selection, and basic features make it ideal for beginners or those looking for a simple sewing machine.
Can the Brother SM1704 handle heavy fabrics like denim or canvas?
The SM1704 can handle light to medium-weight fabrics best. It might sew through a single layer of denim but is not designed for thick or heavy materials like multiple layers of denim or canvas.
Does the Brother SM1704 come with a warranty?
Yes, it comes with a limited 25-year warranty, covering various aspects of the machine over different periods.
Are the presser feet easy to change on the SM1704?
Yes, the machine uses snap-on presser feet, making it easy to switch between different feet for various sewing tasks.
Does this machine have an automatic needle threader?
No, the Brother SM1704 features a manual needle threading system.
What types of stitches are available on the SM1704?
It offers 17 built-in stitches, including utility and decorative stitches, as well as an auto-size 4-step buttonhole.
Can I quilt with the Brother SM1704?
While it’s possible to do some basic quilting, the machine doesn’t have specialized quilting features, so it’s better suited for general sewing and mending tasks.
How does the quick-set bobbin work?
The quick-set bobbin system allows you to easily drop in the bobbin, with the clear cover helping you monitor the thread supply and reduce jamming risks.
What accessories are included with the SM1704?
Accessories include a darning plate, needle set, twin needle, extra spool pin, four bobbins, and different sewing feet like the buttonhole, button sewing, zipper, and zigzag foot.
Can the LED light on the SM1704 be replaced if it goes out?
LED lights are long-lasting and typically don’t need replacing. If there is an issue, it’s best to contact Brother support for assistance.
What are the key features of the Brother SM1704 sewing machine?
The Brother SM1704 features 17 built-in stitches, a quick-set drop-in top bobbin, LED lighting, and four sewing feet, making it a versatile and user-friendly choice for everyday sewing tasks.
Is the Brother SM1704 sewing machine good for beginners?
Yes, with its simple stitch selection dial and easy-to-use features, the Brother SM1704 is ideal for beginners looking for a straightforward and reliable sewing machine.
Can I use the Brother SM1704 for quilting projects?
While primarily designed for general sewing and mending, the SM1704 can handle basic quilting tasks, thanks to its versatile stitch options and free arm capability.
How does the Brother SM1704 manage thread tension?
The SM1704 has a manual tension control dial, allowing users to adjust the thread tension according to the fabric type and sewing requirements.
What types of fabrics can the Brother SM1704 sew through?
The Brother SM1704 is capable of sewing through a variety of light to medium-weight fabrics, making it suitable for a range of sewing projects from clothing to home décor.
Where can I find replacement accessories for the Brother SM1704?
Replacement accessories for the SM1704 can be found through Brother’s official website, authorized dealers, and various online marketplaces specializing in sewing supplies.
What warranty does the Brother SM1704 come with?
The SM1704 comes with a 25-year limited warranty, providing long-term assurance and support for your sewing machine investment.
All Used Image Credit: Brother USA
Check all article List - Best Sewing Machine | Review of All Sewing Machine | Sewing Tips | Textile | Accessories | How to