If you’re exploring the world of sewing—whether as a beginner eager to learn or a seasoned hobbyist seeking a reliable machine—the Brother CS5055 offers a compelling blend of user-friendly features and versatility.
This computerized sewing machine boasts 60 built-in stitches, including utility, decorative, and heirloom options, catering to a wide range of sewing projects. Its lightweight design and intuitive controls make it accessible for users of all skill levels.
In this review, we will dive into the key features, performance, and user experiences of the Brother CS5055 to help you determine if it’s the right sewing machine for your needs
Introduction of Brother CS5055
I’ve been sewing for a couple of years now and am always on the lookout for machines that offer maximum features with minimal complexity.
The Brother CS5055 appears to be in that sweet spot, especially for those just starting out or for those wanting a reliable machine without going through a huge learning curve. It has all the features you need to tackle a variety of projects, but isn’t so intimidating that you won’t even know where to begin.
I believe the Brother CS5055 is a computerized sewing machine, it has 60 built-in stitches and an LCD screen as well.
It’s, in other words, pretty user-friendly stuff — which is good by me. I can remember back when I first began sewing, totally confused by all the various settings and options of my machine. Something similar to the CS5055 would have been a lifesaver. It is also lightweight, so it can be taken anywhere.
Free-motion stitching, extra needles, and bobbins are all included with the Brother CS5055 Project Runway sewing machine. But all in all, the CS5055 appears to be a reliable pick for many types of sewers.
Key Features at a Glance
Alright, let’s get down and dirty with what exactly the Brother CS5055 brings to the party. I’ve spent some time with this machine and here are a few thoughts on what stands out.
It’s not just how many stitches they offer, it’s how well those features are integrated to make sewing easier and more enjoyable.
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50 Unique Built-In Stitches
This is a solid number for a machine in this price range. It covers your basic stitches, decorative options, and even a few heirloom stitches. I found this to be more than enough for most of my projects.
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Automatic Needle Threader
Seriously, this is a lifesaver. No more squinting and struggling to get the thread through that tiny eye. It’s a simple feature, but it makes a huge difference in my sewing experience.
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Top Drop-In Bobbin
I really appreciate how easy it is to load and monitor the bobbin thread. The clear cover lets you see how much thread you have left, so you’re not caught off guard mid-seam.
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LCD Screen
The LCD screen is clear and easy to read, making stitch selection a breeze. I can quickly see the stitch number and adjust the stitch width and length as needed.
One thing I really appreciate is the machine’s lightweight design. It makes it easy to move around and store when I’m not using it. Plus, it doesn’t feel cheap or flimsy, which is a definite plus.
I think the Brother CS7000X is a good alternative if you want more advanced features.
Ease of Use
One of the things I like most is that it’s marked well. There’s no guesswork involved. The most commonly used stitch lengths and widths are even circled on the panel, a thoughtful detail.
The stitches are easy to set up. I just find the number in my screen above the stitch I’d like, and use the plus/minus button until it gets to that stitch.
I can also very easily get the length that I prefer by marking my seam lines on the machine and making my adjustments with a simple + or – to reach my desired length.
Personally, I’ve been really impressed with the Brother CS5055: it has an incredibly user-friendly interface, which is definitely a major bonus if you’re only just starting (or coming back to) sewing. It’s so easy to select a stitch!
The top-loading bobbin is another factor which contributes towards the user-friendliness of this machine. I hate having to bend down to check if I’m doing my bobbin correctly, so this is a nice addition.
And there’s a sticker with nice, clear labelling for how to insert and thread the bobbin. It’s a simple thing, but it makes a world of difference, particularly because you don’t usually see the bobbin while you’re sewing. The Brother Serger 1034D is user-friendly, too.
If simplicity and ease of use are what you’re after, I think the Brother CS5055 is an excellent choice. Intuitive by design, you can focus on what you’re creating, whether it is several layers of art or a hiking/biking trail without having to figure out complicated settings and procedures.
Here’s a brief look at the way I’ve got stitch and bobbin set up on my machines:
| Feature | My Experience |
|---|
| Stitch Setup | Very Easy |
| Bobbin Use | Easy |
Ultimately, if ease of use is what you’re after, I think that the Brother CS5055 is a solid sewing machine. It’s a machine I can recommend to sewing newbies and Tyrolean tailors alike.
Built-in Stitches
One of the things I love about my Brother CS5055 is all the stitches you have on offer. It’s not the maximum possible, but it’s certainly all I need for most of my sewing projects.
“It’s great to have options because I can be more creative and work with different materials and forms.
Buttonhole Styles:
One of the features that I love about the Brother CS5055 is its selection of button holes. Multiple styles to choose from really add the finished touch to my projects. It’s not all functionality, it’s that professional feel.
The CS5055 offers 7 styles of one-step, auto-size buttonholes. And that’s a fantastic feature, particularly for someone like me who hates anything inefficient.
Here’s why I think that’s useful:
- Consistency: The machine makes a consistent buttonhole each time and this will save you from massive frustration.
- Easy to Use: The process in one step is so easy, beginners can do it as well.
- Variety: At 7 different styles, I can coordinate the buttonhole to a garment or project.
I do find that the auto button hole makes sewing button holes less of a doom than it tends to be. It eliminates the need to guess and produces results that look more polished and professional on sewing projects.
I love that it shuts itself off once the buttonhole is finished. This stops over serging and gives you a professional finish. Remember to keep reeling that top thread in at all times!
LCD Display
One of my favorite things about the Brother CS5055 is that it has an LCD. It’s not the largest or the fanciest screen around, but it gets the job done and it does so well.
The monitor really shows you the stitch that you have chosen, and the width and length of that stitch are all being read out, for what helps me when I am switching between projects.
I find it to be a upgrade from machines with only dials and no visual cue. With the LCD, I’m able to look at it for a moment and know that I’ve gone with the correct options. It helps avoid mistakes and ultimately saves me time.
Its LCD is illuminated, which is a great feature. It’s a convenient way to be able to see the settings even in low light. I’ve used it in my dim-lit craft room with absolutely no problems (and that is a huge sales point for me!)
Here’s what I like about the LCD:
- Clear and easy to read.
- Displays stitch settings.
- Backlit for better visibility.
It’s a small thing, but it really improves the overall user experience. For a machine as versatile as the CS5055, that’s an acceptable trade-off, and you get the addition of an LCD.
Automatic Needle Threader
Alright, auto needle threader on the Brother CS5055. I just have to say that this is one of those features that, once you use them for a while, you can’t imagine going back. No longer will you need to squint and struggle trying to get the thread through an impossibly small needle eye.
The automatic needle threader, which I’ve written about before, continues to be a game-changer for those of us whose eyesight isn’t what it used to be.
It’s meant to save you some hassle and frustration, so that you can begin sewing right away. However, some folks have a hard time getting the hang of it initially.
You need to ensure the needle is in its highest position before you start work; otherwise, I found that the hook won’t sit properly.
So here’s a summary of what I did.
- It’s definitely something that requires practice. It’s OK if you don’t get it right away.
- Experiment with the thread direction. Sometimes, reversing the direction that the thread is looped through can also make a difference.
- Once you learn it, you’ll ask yourself why you ever sewed without it. It saves so much time, especially if you’re working on a project that needs lots of thread changes. This is an awesome feature to have, especially when you are learning how to sew best sewing machines for beginners.
I remember when I first got my CS5055, I struggled with the needle threader for a good half hour. I almost gave up! But after watching a few videos and experimenting with different techniques, I finally figured it out. Now, I can thread the needle in seconds. It’s all about finding what works best for you.
The automatic needle threader is a great feature, but be aware that the placement of the light on the CS5055 creates shadows over your work area, sometimes making it difficult to thread.
It’s fairly bright, but you might find the shadow on the left to be a little distracting. Some users have also complained that the needle threader shadow can be disruptive.
But aside from that small hiccup, the automatic needle threader continues to be a huge positive for me. It’s one of the reasons that I suggest this machine to everyone is because it is simple and efficient.
Top-Loading Bobbin
Auto Reverse Feature: One of the easiest user-friendly features in the Brother CS5055 is its top-loading bobbin.
And I do a lot of threading on the machine and don’t have to bend down to the machine to see if the bobbin is in properly. It is so much easier to load and keep an eye on your thread supply than the front-loading systems.
Here’s what I like about it:
- Easy to see: Cabinet back is transparent, so you can clearly see the color of the thread that can be placed, making it easy to find the items in a cabinet. This is a huge win for me because I absolutely hate getting low on thread before finishing a project.
- Easy to load: Drop-in bobbin is easy to insert and remove. No more fiddling and trying to get it in just so. And you will be so grateful for the jam-free design.
- Less futzing around: Top-loading bobbins are almost always less likely than their front-loading cousins to jam or create tangles, so you spend less time tweaking your machine and more time sewing.
I also saw that the machine has nice, visible instructions for inserting and threading the bobbin – a useful feature, more especially to beginners! It removes some of the mystery from setting up a bobbin so you feel like
It’s one of those small things that makes a big difference in my sewing experience. I think the Brother CS5055 computerized sewing machine is a great choice for both beginners and experienced sewers alike.
Performance and Stitch Quality
Performance and stitch quality are super important when it comes to what I consider in a sewing machine. I need to know whether it can sew different fabrics and types of stitches with ease. For just basic sewing, I haven’t had too many problems with the Brother CS5055.
The stitch quality is decent for everyday sewing. It’s not the most upscale machine out there, but it suits me for most of the projects I do.
I’ve tried it on cotton, and some lighter fabrics are neat looking.
But if you intend to sew with the bulkier materials of heavy denim or multiple layers of fabric for a patchwork piece, it would receive some resistance. It’s definitely more of a light-to medium-weight project fabric.
If you want the quick backstory of my experience:
I believe that for the price, the Brother CS5055 is a pretty good machine. It’s a fine choice for anyone who’s just starting or looking to dip in and get a basic machine for infrequent use.
Straight Stitch: Perfect for seaming and topstitching on many fabrics.
Zigzag Stitch: Good for finishing edges, but can be a tad uneven on stretchier fabrics.
Buttonholes: reasonable quality but requires some practice to get them perfect.
Pros and Cons of Brother CS5055
When I’m considering a new sewing machine, I always weigh the good with the bad. The Brother CS5055 is no exception.
It’s got some great features, but it’s not perfect. Let’s break down what I like and what I don’t like about this machine.
Zipper Foot Instability: I had some trouble with the presser foot feeling unstable when sewing zippers. This could be a bit frustrating if you do a lot of projects with zippers.
Bobbin Tension Issues: I experienced some slight issues with the bobbin tension, which caused the fabric to bunch up a bit in some tests. It wasn’t a major problem, but it’s something to be aware of.
Buttonholes: While the buttonhole setup is simple, the quality of the resulting buttonholes wasn’t the best. They were okay, but not as polished as I would have liked. I think the Brother XR9550 has better buttonholes.
No Presser Foot Lock: This is a minor inconvenience, but it would be nice to have a presser foot lock for added stability.
Zipper Foot Instability: I had some trouble with the presser foot feeling unstable when sewing zippers. This could be a bit frustrating if you do a lot of projects with zippers.
Bobbin Tension Issues: I experienced some slight issues with the bobbin tension, which caused the fabric to bunch up a bit in some tests. It wasn’t a major problem, but it’s something to be aware of.
Buttonholes: While the buttonhole setup is simple, the quality of the resulting buttonholes wasn’t the best. They were okay, but not as polished as I would have liked. I think the Brother XR9550 has better buttonholes.
No Presser Foot Lock: This is a minor inconvenience, but it would be nice to have a presser foot lock for added stability.
Borther CS5055 Review Conclusion: This is a good, solid machine for the money. It is easy to use, costs relatively little, and offers enough features even for basic sewing jobs.
But it has its downsides too, like the zipper foot wobble and the bobbin tension concerns. If you are a beginner or just require a machine for minor repairs, it is an excellent option.
But if you consider yourself a more advanced sewer or are looking for a machine to grow with, it may make more sense to opt for another model, such as the SINGER M2100.
Comparison with Similar Models
When I am considering whether a sewing machine is going to be my next purchase, close comparisons between it and any similar models are what help me make an informed decision.
It also helps me to know what I’m realistically getting for the price, and if there might be better options out there that can cater to my particular needs. So, in this next section, we’re going to review how the Brother CS5055 lines up with a couple of other popular models from the same manufacturer.
Brother CS5055 vs Brother CS7000X
Okay, so let’s get into it. Both the Brother CS5055 and the Brother CS7000X are good machines, but there are a few differences. The CS7000X does generally have more features and slightly better overall performance, but it also carries a higher price.
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Built-in Stitches
The CS7000X boasts 70 built-in stitches, while the CS5055 has 50. More stitches mean more versatility for different projects.
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Included Accessories
The CS7000X often includes a wider array of presser feet and accessories, which can be a real bonus if you plan on tackling a variety of sewing tasks.
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User Experience
Both are user-friendly, but some users find the CS7000X’s interface a bit more intuitive due to its larger LCD screen and more straightforward controls.
If you’re on a tight budget and only need basic sewing functions, the CS5055 is a great choice. However, if you’re willing to spend a bit more for added features and a slightly smoother sewing experience, the CS7000X might be the better option. I think the Brother XR9550 is also a great option to consider.
Brother CS5055 vs Singer 4423
Is there anything worse than going round and around trying to decide how to choose a sewing machine with all the choices out there? I’ve been there! So, now back to our Brother CS5055 vs Singer 4423 compariso Let’s compare the Brother CS5055 to the Singer 4423. Both are popular machines, though they serve slightly different needs.
The Brother CS5055 snap, it`s usually said to be user friendly as well as highly featured, which is ideal for beginners.
The Singer 4423, meanwhile, is often recommended for its strong build and that it’s good at dealing with heavier fabrics. It depends on what you sew most.
Let’s dive a bit deeper.
- The Brother CS5055 is a smaller and more lightweight machine, which can be a bonus if you don’t have an exclusive sewing space.
- Stronger Motor: The 4423 has a stronger motor, so it will be able to better handle denim or multiple layers of fabric.
- The Brother CS5055 generally comes with additional built-in stitches and decorative choices.
I think the biggest difference really boils down to power versus features. If you’re mainly doing basic sewing and want something easy to use with lots of stitch options, the Brother CS5055 is a solid choice.
To me, the major difference ultimately seems to be power vs. features. Overall, if you do more simple sewing and need something user-friendly with plenty of stitch options, the Brother CS5055 is a good pick.
But if you need a workhorse that can handle heavy-duty materials, the Singer 4423 is likely your best bet.
The Singer 4423 is a mechanical unit, and the Brother CS5055 is computerized. This means that the Singer 4423 may require a little more of your manual eye and hand to be sure everything is set right, but it also means fewer electronic components could fail.
And it can provide a much (much) more enjoyable sewing experience as well, with the Brother CS5055 model’s computerized features including the LCD screen and automatic needle threader: great for those just starting who are after budget sewing machines.
Who Should Buy The Brother CS5055
I believe the Brother CS5055 is an excellent choice for particular sewers. That doesn’t make it the perfect machine for everyone, but it does perform particularly well in some scenarios.
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Beginners:
If you’re just starting out, this machine is incredibly user-friendly. The clear instructions and easy setup make it a breeze to get going. I remember when I first started sewing, I was so intimidated by all the dials and settings. This machine eliminates that fear.
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Occasional Sewers:
If you only sew occasionally for mending or small projects, the CS5055 is a great option. It’s lightweight and easy to store, so you don’t have to dedicate a lot of space to it. Plus, it has enough features to handle basic tasks without being overwhelming.
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Budget-Conscious Buyers:
Let’s be honest, sewing machines can be expensive. The Brother CS5055 offers a lot of value for its price point. You get a decent number of stitches and features without breaking the bank. I appreciate that it doesn’t compromise on quality despite being affordable.
I’ve found that the Brother CS5055 is particularly well-suited for those who need a reliable machine for basic sewing tasks and don’t want to spend a fortune. It’s a great option for beginners, occasional sewers, and anyone on a budget. However, if you’re an experienced sewer looking for advanced features, you might want to consider other models.
If you’re looking for a machine that’s easy to use and won’t cost you an arm and a leg, the Brother CS5055 is worth considering.
It’s a great all-around machine for basic sewing needs. I’ve used it for various projects, from simple repairs to creating fun decorations, and it has always performed well.
It’s a reliable and affordable option that I would recommend to anyone just starting their sewing journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Brother CS5055 best for?
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The Brother CS5055 is great for beginners and those who do light sewing projects like curtains, bags, and simple decorations.
How many built-in stitches does the Brother CS5055 have?
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The Brother CS5055 comes with 60 built-in stitches, which gives you a lot of options for different sewing tasks.
Is the Brother CS5055 easy to use?
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Yes, the Brother CS5055 is designed to be user-friendly, making it a good choice for new sewers.
Does it have an automatic needle threader?
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Yes, the Brother CS5055 features an automatic needle threader, which helps make threading the needle much easier.
How does the CS5055 compare to other sewing machines?
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The Brother CS5055 is affordable and offers many features, making it a better choice for beginners compared to more complex machines.
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