You’ve landed on the right spot if you are trying to compare Brother LB6800PRW and Brother ST531HD. Which one is right for you? Their excellent quality makes them a fantastic choice for anyone who enjoys sewing.
What are the main differences between them? Allow me to simplify my answers here.
Table of Contents
Brother LB6800PRW vs. Brother ST531HD: Comparison in Features
Sewing Machine Types
The Brother LB6800PRW is a sewing and embroidery combo machine, while the Brother ST531HD is a mechanical sewing machine. Since the machine types decide they differ a lot in features, I won’t make a suggestion.
You should choose carefully based on your sewing skills and goal.
Brother LB6800PRW vs. Brother ST531HD : Built-in Stitches
There are 67 stitches on Brother LB6800PRW. On the other hand, the Brother ST531HD has 53 built-in stitches. Brother LB6800PRW sewing machine comes with 10 one-step buttonhole(s), while Brother ST531HD sewing machine has only 1 one-step buttonhole(s).
Weight
The Brother LB6800PRW sewing machine weighs approximately 13.66 lbs, while the Brother ST531HD comes with a weight of 14.3 lbs.
The extra weight can become cumbersome if you don’t have a set location in your home for your sewing machine.
Start/Stop Button
The Brother ST531HD doesn’t come with a start/stop button, while the Brother LB6800PRW sewing machine does. A huge number of sewists don’t realize that using the start/stop button effectively can make sewing a whole lot easier. It is very useful for decorative stitches for example, as well as with free-motion quilting.
Speed Control Slider
The Brother LB6800PRW sewing machine arrives with a speed control slider while the Brother ST531HD sewing machine doesn’t. A speed control slide is a useful feature that allows you to set the maximum speed you are comfortable with.
Automatic Needle Threader
Many sewing machines sold today come with an automatic threader function. This is essentially a lever that will guide the thread through the eye of your sewing needle for you so that you don’t have to do it yourself. Many sewists prefer to thread their own needles, but if you have difficulty performing this task, then a machine with an automatic needle threader might be very useful for you. Fortunately, these two sewing machines both come with automatic needle threader, allowing you to thread the machine with ease.
Drop-in Bobbin
The advantage of easy drop-in, top load bobbins is that you can readily see how much thread is left on the bobbin through the window. You do not have to remove the bobbin case to insert a new bobbin, and you do not have to remove the accessory tray from the free arm to change bobbins. Both the Brother LB6800PRW sewing machine and the Brother ST531HD come with this user-friendly feature.
Programmable Needle Up/Down
Unlike the Brother LB6800PRW, the Brother ST531HD isn’t equipped with a programmable needle up/down function. And using the needle-down function allows the needle to act as a third hand in holding the stitching position, such as when you want to stop and turn a corner or stitching a curve.
Drop Feed
The most common type of feeding mechanism in a home sewing machine (and some industrial machines) is the drop feed, also known as the regular feed system. Both Brother LB6800PRW and Brother ST531HD come equipped with a drop feed system, which grabs the fabric and moves it along through the machine.
Free Arm
There is free arm on both the Brother LB6800PRW and the Brother ST531HD. The free arm is a very useful feature to all sewing machines as it makes sewing one layer of fabric without catching another. This is because all of the workings around the bobbin race, feed dogs, and needles are housed there.
Automatic Thread Cutter
If you hate cutting your threads after a sewing process, then a sewing machine that comes with an automatic thread cutter can be a lifesaver. Know that the Brother ST531HD does not have this feature. The Brother LB6800PRW, on the other hand, is equipped with an automatic thread cutter feature.
| Brother LB6800PRW | Brother ST531HD | |
| Product Image | |
|
| Sewing Machine Type | Sewing and Embroidery Combo | Mechanical |
| Stitches | 67 | 53 |
| Buttonhole Styles | 10 one-step | 1 one-step |
| Start/Stop Button | Yes | No |
| Built-in Memory | Yes | No |
| Programmable Needle Up/Down | Yes | No |
| Monogramming Font | Yes 5 | No |
| Drop Feed | Yes | Yes |
| Free Arm | Yes | Yes |
| Working Light | Yes LED | Yes 1 LED |
| Speed Control Slider | Yes | No |
| Weight | 13.66 lbs | 14.3 lbs |
| Extra High Presser Foot Lifter | – | – |
| Snap-on Presser Foot | Yes | Yes |
| Automatic Thread Cutter | Yes | No |
| Automatic Needle Threader | Yes | Yes |
| Drop-in Bobbin | Yes | Yes |
| USB Connectivity | Yes | No |
| Stitch Selection | LCD Touch Display | Dial on Side |
| Adjustable Stitch Length/Width | Yes | Yes |
| Included Feet | Buttonhole foot, Overcasting foot, Zipper foot, Button fitting foot, Monogramming foot, Embroidery foot, Blind stitch foot | Buttonhole foot, Button sewing foot, Spring action zigzag foot, Zipper foot, Non stick foot, Blind stitch foot. |
| Dedicated Locking Stitch Button | – | No |
| Tension | Adjustable With Dial | Adjustable With Dial |
| Knee Lifter | No | No |
| Warranty | 25 Year Limited | 25 Year Limited |
| Price | Check Price on Amazon | Check Price on Amazon |
Brother LB6800PRW Video Review
Brother ST531HD Video Review
The Verdict
Both machines are neck and neck when it comes to performance. The stitch quality is very similar between the two machines. They are capable of handling heavy and delicate fabrics with ease. It is the stitch quality of these two machines that differentiates them from other machines in their segment. Based on the features listed above, we believe you will be able to make a decision on your own. The final decision is yours.
Q. What should I know about manual vs. electric sewing machines?
A. Manual sewing machines were the mainstay of the crafting world, but in more recent years electric (also known as computerized) machines have been increasing in popularity for their easy operation and advanced functions, such as embroidery.
If you’re looking for a simple sewing experience without frills, a mechanical machine gives you straightforward functionality.
Without electronic components, some feel that these machines prove more reliable in the long term.
However, computerized machines may shorten the learning curve for some new sewers, since choosing stitches and settings only requires the push of a button.
Q. Do you need a special sewing machine for leather?
A. No, although a heavy-duty machine will make it easier. However, any good-quality home sewing machine can handle leather with a few special accessories. You will need a Teflon presser foot, a needle designed for sewing leather, and heavy-duty thread.
Q. Why use a walking foot on a sewing machine
A. A walking foot helps move knit fabrics evenly so they don’t stretch out of shape. The walking foot eliminates the need for excessive pinning when working with slippery fabrics. That is especially useful because most of those slippery fabrics, such as satin, are easily damaged by pins.
Q. How to use double needle on sewing machine
- STEP 1: PREP YOUR EDGE.
- STEP 2: PREP YOUR SEWING MACHINE.
- STEP 3: TEST ON A SCRAP OF FABRIC.
- STEP 4: SEW THE DOUBLE NEEDLE HEM.
Q. Can a normal sewing machine sew canvas?
A. Yes, canvas can be sewn on a regular sewing machine.
Q. Can i use serger thread in my sewing machine
A. Do not use serger thread in your sewing machine. These spools of thread are tempting to buy because they’re inexpensive, but they have a very rough texture on the thread. So if you put it in your regular sewing machine, it’s going to break and jam and you’ll be really frustrated.
