Brother XM2701 vs. Spiegel SP3201 Comparison

In this comparison, we are going to compare one of the most popular affordable sewing machines, the Brother XM2701 and Spiegel SP3201. What made these two sewing machines stand out was that they were packed with features in an affordable range combined with excellent stitch quality.

What are the major differences between them? Here I will try to answer them as simply as possible.

Brother XM2701 vs. Spiegel SP3201: Comparison in Features

Sewing Machine Types

Both Brother XM2701 and Spiegel SP3201 are mechanical sewing machines. Although a mechanical sewing machine has fewer stitch options than a computerized one, they are easier to maintain and cost less.

Brother XM2701 vs. Spiegel SP3201 : Built-in Stitches

The Brother XM2701 has 27 stitches. The Spiegel SP3201 on the other hand comes with 32 built-in stitches. The apparent difference is in the buttonhole styles, where Brother XM2701 sewing machine comes with 1 one-step buttonhole(s), Spiegel SP3201 sewing machine has only 1 one-step buttonhole(s).

Weight

The Brother XM2701 sewing machine weighs approximately 12.6 lbs, while the Spiegel SP3201 comes with a weight of 15.76 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

Neither Brother XM2701 nor Spiegel SP3201 has a start/stop button. This might not be convenient for a novice to sew effectively.

Speed Control Slider

Neither Brother XM2701 sewing machine nor Spiegel SP3201 has a speed control slider. With a speed control slider, the sewing speed will never go above your selected speed, no matter how hard you press on the pedal.

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 XM2701 sewing machine and the Spiegel SP3201 come with this user-friendly feature.

Programmable Needle Up/Down

With a programmable needle up/down function, the needle will stop down in the fabric, allowing you to raise the presser foot and adjust the fabric without the fabric moving out of position because the needle will hold the fabric in place. However, unfortunately, these two sewing machines come with this feature.

Free Arm

There is free arm on both the Brother XM2701 and the Spiegel SP3201. 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.

The Verdict

While both of these sewing machines are made by great businesses, choosing between them is tough. But my general suggestion is to go with the machine that has the most built-in stitches at a reasonable price.

Q. How do I thread a sewing machine?

To get started with your sewing project, you’ll need to first thread your sewing machine. While your machine’s manual should guide you in the specific sequence for your make and model, the basic process starts by placing the presser foot in the up position.

Next, put your thread spool on the spool holder and bring the thread across the top of the machine, through the thread guide. Insert the thread through the tension mechanism, sliding it between the metal disks before pulling it back upwards. Find the take-up lever and place the thread into the hole. Pull the thread towards the sewing machine needle, using available thread guides as you go.

Finally, bring the needle into an accessible position by adjusting the handwheel. Insert the thread. Your sewing machine should be threaded and ready to go, but it’s always a good idea to make a test run on a sample swatch to check your work.

However, if you sewing machine comes with an automatic needle threader, that would save you lots of time.

Q. Can a normal sewing machine sew canvas?

A. Yes, canvas can be sewn on a regular sewing machine.

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 regular sewing machine sew vinyl?

A. Yes, with the same modifications listed above for leather.

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. Can I interchange metal and plastic bobbins if they are the same size?

A. Metal bobbins and plastic bobbins of the same size can NOT be swapped. Machines are set for a very precise tension setting. If they are set for a lighter plastic bobbin, the tension will change if a heavier metal bobbin is used.