I’ve been looking into the Brother NQ1700E lately, and it seems like a really solid choice if you’re serious about embroidery. It’s an embroidery-only machine, which means it’s built from the ground up for stitching designs, and that’s kind of neat.
I’ve gathered a bunch of info on its features, how easy it is to use, and how it stacks up against other machines out there. If you’re thinking about getting one, or just curious about what it can do, stick around.
Key Takeaways
- The Brother NQ1700E is a dedicated embroidery machine, not a combo sewing/embroidery unit, making it ideal for those focused solely on embroidery projects.
- It boasts a generous 6″ x 10″ embroidery area, allowing for larger and more complex designs than smaller machines.
- Wireless connectivity via Design Database Transfer lets you send designs from your computer to the machine easily.
- While user-friendly for basic tasks, mastering the advanced features of the Brother NQ1700E might take some time and practice.
- The machine comes bundled with valuable software like BES Blue, adding significant creative potential and value to the purchase.
Introduction: What is the Brother NQ1700E?
So, I’ve been looking into embroidery machines lately, and one that kept popping up is the Brother NQ1700E. It seems like a pretty solid choice if you’re serious about embroidery and want something more than just a basic starter model. This machine is embroidery-only, meaning it’s built from the ground up to handle stitching designs, not sewing garments.
It’s designed for people who want to create detailed, professional-looking embroidery without the added complexity of a sewing machine. I found that its larger 6″ x 10″ embroidery area is a big deal. This gives you much more room to work with for bigger designs, which is great for things like jackets or home decor projects.
I also noticed it has wireless capabilities, which is a nice touch. It means you can send designs from your computer straight to the machine without messing with USB sticks. This is a feature that really appeals to me for convenience. For setup help, How to Use an Embroidery Sewing Machine is a great reference.
For anyone diving into this machine, checking out the Brother NQ1700E Reviews is a good first step. It covers a lot of the basics and helps you get started.
It comes with a decent number of built-in designs and fonts, but what really caught my eye was its compatibility with iBroidery.com, which opens up a huge library of designs. If you’re looking for a machine that can handle more intricate work and offers modern conveniences, the NQ1700E is definitely worth a closer look. I’ll be going into more detail about its features and how it performs in the next sections.
Key Features and Specifications
When I first got my hands on the Brother NQ1700E, to be honest, all the features packed into this machine totally overwhelmed me! Not just another embroidery hoop on a motor, there’s so much going on here. For the nitty-gritty of what matters most, here’s what I found in real-world use:
Embroidery Area and Hoop Sizes
The most exciting part for me is the large 6″ x 10″ embroidery field. It gives you way more room to play compared to older or entry-level models, meaning you don’t have to split designs or fuss with constant re-hooping. If you want similar large-format projects, look at Brother PE550D Review for comparison.
- 6″ x 10″ max embroidery area
- Comes with multiple hoops for a range of project sizes
- Ideal for big designs like jacket backs, quilts, and home décor
Embroidery Hoop Sizes
Embroidery Hoop Sizes & Project Ideas
| Hoop Size |
Projects That Fit |
| 6″ x 10″ |
Large monograms, jacket backs |
| 5″ x 7″ |
Pillows, bags, baby clothes |
| 4″ x 4″ |
Patches, small items, initials |
The large hoop let me finish a full-size tote bag design without stopping midway—a small win, but it sure felt good not breaking my rhythm. The large hoop let me finish a full-size tote bag design without stopping midway—a small win, but it felt good not breaking my rhythm. You can also check How to Sew a Tote Bag for step-by-step instructions.
Stitch Count and Speed
One thing I notice is how quietly and quickly this thing works. With a maximum speed of 850 stitches per minute, projects finish up fast. Even with bigger, more detailed designs, I didn’t find myself waiting forever or worrying about weird thread tangles. For threading help, How to Use Automatic Needle Threader is extremely useful.
- 850 stitches per minute (SPM)
- Smooth operation even with dense patterns
- Consistent stitch quality at higher speeds
Built-in Designs and Fonts
You get a nice selection built into the machine right out of the box, so if you’re itching to try it out, you definitely can.
- 258+ built-in designs
- A variety of fonts for lettering and monograms
- Supports pattern editing right on screen (move, resize, rotate, merge)
Connectivity and Software Compatibility
This thing feels current, not of another era. Through Wi-Fi, I can send my designs directly from my laptop to the machine. No more rooting through that old USB stick. Also, iBroidery compatible, which opened up a vault of new patterns I could never get through in a lifetime anyway.
- Wireless LAN (Wi-Fi) and USB connection
- Easy design imports from PC or design library
- Touchscreen: 4.85″ color LCD with a simple interface
- Compatible with multiple embroidery formats and Brother’s design software
Which all combine to make for one pretty versatile machine, maybe even a little overwhelming at first! But after using it for a time, I got the impression that they wanted to approach making the NQ1700E practical, whether you’re making keepsakes for friends or custom jobs for clients. The modern features aren’t simply bells and whistles; they actively save time and make life easier once you adjust to them.
Ease of Use: Is it Beginner-Friendly?
On first considering the Brother NQ1700E, I was curious whether it might be too far advanced for my current abilities, someone who is still familiarizing myself with embroidery. Okay, honestly, I was a little worried about the setup, and just like getting all this set up. But I have to tell you, it’s surprisingly approachable.
Setup and Threading
Getting this machine up and running was easier than I thought. The manual is fairly straightforward, and the automatic needle threader is a real lifesaver. Seriously, don’t squint and fumble with thread anymore! It is easy to wind the bobbins too. Decision made, I went through my 1st stitches without too much head-scratching.
- Automatic Needle Threader: Makes threading a breeze.
- Clear Manual: Guides you through the initial setup.
- Easy Bobbin Winding: A simple process that doesn’t take long.
Navigating the Interface
For beginners, this machine shines on the touchscreen. It’s bright and responsive, and browsing designs or adjusting settings feels fairly intuitive. I didn’t think I needed a degree in computer science to learn how to choose out, resize slightly, for example, and/or change thread color. So it’s not super complicated, which is great for beginners.
The most basic functions are easy to understand, but don’t expect to get a grasp on every advanced feature immediately. Like anything new, there’s a little learning curve involved, but the NQ1700E doesn’t make you climb a sheer cliff. It feels much more like a gradual incline, and you can be patient.
If you are looking to get into embroidery and do not want a machine that will overwhelm you, the NQ1700E is an excellent option. It has just enough power and features to keep you engaged as you learn, but not so complicated that it throws in the towel before you even start using it.
Performance: How Does it Stitch?
Just starting with embroidery on the Brother NQ1700E, all I wanted to know was how it works with different fabrics and designs. I wanted to test it out with a few common items, like a cotton t-shirt and a thicker sweatshirt, to see how the device did.
The machine stitches are generally smooth, particularly on stable fabrics. For simple designs on cotton t-shirts, I found that running 750-850 SPM (stitches per minute) will suffice. But I quickly discovered that running it to its full speed of 1000 SPM is not necessarily the best idea.
I was aware that at higher speeds, the needle can get pretty hot(I mean, it concerns me if you are working with any synthetic threads or fabrics that might melt). Also, there is a greater chance of the needle deflecting, hitting the needle plate, and breaking. The machine is most reliable; if it’s rumbling steadily at a low pitch, you’re doing ok, but when the noise goes up into high-pitched clattering territory, slow down.
The NQ1700E handles cotton, sweatshirts, and knits well. Proper hooping and stabilizer selection are key. For more beginner-friendly project guides, check Sewing 101: A Beginner’s Guide to Sewing Basics and Projects That You Can Sell.
Here’s a quick rundown of what I observed:
T-shirts: They were stitched out nicely with good definition. To keep the fabric flat, I used a no-show mesh stabilizer and sprayed it with adhesive.
Sweatshirts: Needed a little more attention. I used a heavier cutaway stabilizer and spray adhesive. The speed slowed to about 600-700 SPM, which gave better control and cleaner seams.
Knits: These were the trickiest. For loose knits, I found hooping is the best method to avoid distortion, and using a topper on top prevents stitches from sinking in too much.
I also experimented with floating techniques where you don’t hoop the fabric but rather adhere it to a stabilizer. This is good for things like shirt collars or pockets. It takes a delicate hand; you’re simply supporting the weight of the fabric, not pushing or pulling it. If the fabric begins to peel or move, it’s best to halt and reset. These first 30 stitches are very important to keep an eye on; if you notice anything unusual, stop right away. If a small problem can be solved early, it is often better than letting it snowball into a bigger issue.
The main focus is on the preparation of the fabric, especially if it is a difficult fabric to embroider. I estimate that as much as 70% of how well you are going to do relies on the method that you use to hoop or float your fabric and what stabilizer you select. The other 30% is the actual stitching.
Pros and Cons of the Brother NQ1700E
When I began researching the Brother NQ1700E, I wanted to have an understanding of what I was getting into. It’s a darn reliable machine, but like anything, it has some ups and downs.
Pros of the Brother NQ1700E
Here’s a quick rundown of what I liked:
- Generous Embroidery Space: The 6″ x 10″ field is great for larger projects.
- Helpful Automation: Features like automatic thread trimming and needle threading save a lot of time and frustration.
- Wireless Design Transfer: Sending designs via Wi-Fi is super convenient.
- Clear Color Touchscreen: The interface is pretty intuitive for selecting and editing designs.
- Good Stitch Speed: At 850 stitches per minute, it gets the job done without sacrificing quality.
Cons of the Brother NQ1700E
However, it’s not all perfect. I did run into a few things that might be a sticking point for some users.
- Learning Curve For Advanced Features: Basic operation is easy to learn, but you’ll need time and research to get all of the software’s in-depth editing features.
- Quirks: Occasional machine hiccups. Sometimes, things just don’t go right and need your intervention with their online forums or support.
- Software Adaptation: Although it includes BES Blue software, which ideally should suffice for most users, some people find it a little daunting when they first start using it (particularly those who are not accustomed to embroidery-related software).
Skeptical, but overall, I think that the NQ1700E needs to hit a good sweet spot. It’s powerful enough for serious hobbyists and small businesses, but not so complicated that a motivated novice can’t learn how to use it. You only need to be ready to spend some time learning what it can do.
Who is the Brother NQ1700E Suitable For?
When I looked a little closer at the Brother NQ1700E, it soon became very obvious who this machine is really for.
This isn’t the entry-level device you get solely to dip your toes in. If you have some experience, or if you’re ready to take your embroidery hobby (or even small business) to the next level, it’s a serious upgrade. The NQ1700E is built with features to accommodate an arduous stitching experience from heavy user sessions, big custom projects, and constant use.
Here’s who I think gets the most out of the NQ1700E:
- Folks who love large-format embroidery. The 6” x 10” hoop gives creative opportunities that standard machines just can’t manage.
- Small business owners or aspiring home seamstresses. The speed, design memory, and wireless transfer features certainly do save time and add productivity with repeat jobs and custom orders.
- Everybody wishing to play with hundreds of premade designs and drag and drop patterns customized in software.
But honestly, after testing the NQ1700E and putting it through its paces, I really do feel that this machine is for people who view embroidery as something more than just a once-in-a-while craft. It is an investment, but for the right person, it takes a hobby and makes it a proper side hustle, or even a full-on creative career. For similar embroidery-focused machines, see Best Sewing Machines for Embroidery.
Comparison of Brother NQ1700E with Other Sewing Machines
I know doing comparisons to other models in Brother embroidery machine reviews is smart, but I often see a lot of comparisons happening. It assists in determining which machine actually suits what I want. The Brother NQ1700E is a straight embroidery machine, as opposed to combo machines that sew too. That means it’s designed from the ground up purely for embroidery, and that could be a big deal.
For broader comparisons, check Brother CS5055 Reviews and Juki TL-2000QI Reviews.
Brother NQ1700E vs. Brother PE900
I did check, and both the NQ1700E and PE900 compare pretty closely, but I’d give a leg up to NQ1700E for larger projects. The NQ1700E has a bigger 6″ x 10″ embroidery field capability compared to the PE900, which is limited to 5″ x 7″. This is a huge difference if I am trying to do larger designs, such as on the back of a jacket or a large home decor piece, without having to rehoop.
They both support Wi-Fi for design transfer, which is really nice to have, and they also come with a decent selection of built-in designs. The larger workspace of the NQ1700E makes it a more powerful option for advanced embroidery functionality.
Brother PE900 vs. SINGER Legacy SE300
The Brother PE900 and SINGER Legacy SE300 are both combo machines, so they sew and embroider. The PE900 has a 5” x 7” embroidery field and features a decent variety of built-in designs as well as fonts. Features-wise, it has a nice range for the class and a similar embroidery size, though.
These are good options for someone who wants one machine to do both sewing and embroidery. On the other hand, if I am really going to focus on embroidery, then there are dedicated machines like the NQ1700E, and while it is a lot of money, it has so many advanced capabilities, with my preferred large hoop being an option.
Brother NQ1700E vs. Bernette B70 Deco
The Bernette B70 Deco and Brother NQ1700E Comparison. The NQ1700E is an embroidery-only machine that has a generous 6″ x 10″ hoop. In brother embroidery machine reviews, it’s often credited for its ease of use and impressive embroidery features. The opposite is true for the Bernette B70 Deco; this is also an embroidery-only machine, but often has a significantly smaller embroidery field size (around 5″ x 7″ or so in many cases, although again it may differ depending on model).
For the embellisher, the B70 Deco always comes with numerous built-in designs and decorative stitches. Both are ideal for serious hobbyists or those seeking the best home embroidery machines, but the NQ1700E’s larger hoop size is a big benefit for larger, more ambitious designs.
The decision to purchase the right embroidery machine generally depends on your project size and sewing capability requirements. The NQ1700E stands out for dedicated embroidery with a larger workspace. If you want a machine that does both (possibly something like the SE300 or even some Brother sewing and embroidery machines), those are better options.
Conclusion: My Honest Take on the Brother NQ1700E
Having spent real time with the Brother NQ1700E, I can confidently say that it’s a quality embroidery machine for anyone who is serious about their craft. The large embroidery area is a game-changer. I never felt boxed in by the size of your hoop, and it made working on larger projects much less stressful. The wireless design transfer is honestly a blessing, as I’m constantly misplacing USB sticks. I liked the touchscreen, too. It’s not perfect, but it is easy enough to navigate after some initial poking around.
That said, it’s not all petunias and sunshine. I did encounter a few odd error messages, and I did have to scour forums at times to troubleshoot. It’s not the most affordable machine on the market, so if you’re just dabbling in DIY sourdough, it looks like overkill. But if you’re ready to up your embroidery game, or just want a little more oomph in something that has the chops for small business work, I think the NQ1700E deserves a look. It’s not perfect, but it is highly effective, and when everything is clicking, it’s just a lot of fun to use. Just be prepared for a little learning curve, and maybe have the manual nearby when you’re in the thick of things, just in case.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use the Brother NQ1700E for sewing projects too?
No, Brother NQ1700E is an embroidery-only device. While it can also sew, it’s not for standard sewing tasks; instead, it’s made specifically to create beautiful embroidered designs. If you want a machine that performs both functions, then perhaps check out a combo machine.
What makes the embroidery area of the NQ1700E special?
The large embroidery area (6″ x 10″) on this machine was my favourite for me. That means I can build bigger, more spectacular designs without having to re-hoop my fabric a bunch of times, which saves a ton of time and headache for larger projects like jacket backs or home decor.
Is it easy to get designs onto the Brother NQ1700E?
Yes, it’s quite convenient! It has built-in Wi-Fi so I can send designs directly to the machine from my computer (this feature is known as Design Database Transfer). It also includes a USB port if I choose to opt for that instead. I am a big fan of this wireless feature.
Does this machine come with many designs and fonts already?
Absolutely! I was glad to discover it includes more than 258 built-in designs and 140 frame patterns, as well as 13 different fonts. They also led me to the iBroidery website, if I end up needing more designs.
How fast does the NQ1700E stitch?
This machine can sew at a maximum speed of 850 stitches per minute. For me, it means I can complete my machine embroidery projects in record time compared to slower machines, without compromising the stitches. It really speeds things up.
Is the Brother NQ1700E a good choice for someone just starting in embroidery?
Although it has advanced features, for a newcomer like me, the NQ1700E was surprisingly simple to use. Setup is simple enough, and the color touchscreen provides straightforward operation and design editing. The automatic needle thread is a lifesaver as well! But it’s more expensive than a basic machine, so it’s best for serious embroiderers.
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