I recently got my hands on the SINGER Quantum Stylist 9985, and I’ve been putting it through its paces for this review. If you’re looking for a sewing machine that’s loaded with features and can handle a lot of different projects, this one definitely caught my eye.
I wanted to see if all those fancy buttons and the touchscreen lived up to the hype, especially when it comes to actual sewing. So, I’ve broken down what I found about its features, how it performs, and if I think it’s worth the money.
Key Takeaways
- The SINGER Quantum Stylist 9985 has a huge number of stitches, over 960, which gives you tons of options for creative projects.
- Its color LCD touchscreen is pretty easy to use and has helpful guides for setting things up.
- I found the automatic needle threader and the drop-in bobbin system made getting started much quicker and less frustrating.
- This machine handles a good variety of fabrics, from light silks to heavier denim, and the metal frame makes it feel stable.
- While it’s packed with features that appeal to intermediate and advanced sewers, absolute beginners might find it a bit much to start with.
Introduction to the SINGER Quantum Stylist 9985
I was intrigued when I first heard of the SINGER Quantum Stylist 9985. It falls under the SINGER Quantum Stylist series, which is known for fitting a ton of features into its machines. This one, the 9985, is a computerized sewing machine that piqued my interest.
It comes with a vast number of stitches and some quite advanced features that set it apart. For a sewist just starting to tackle more ambitious projects or an already-experienced stitcher, it feels like a machine designed to grow with you.
“Its large stitch library stands out among the various Singer sewing machine features,” notes our writer. We’re talking more than 960 built-in stitches, including decorative ones, alphanumeric fonts for personalizing projects, and a decent array of one-step buttonholes. This range is also great for anyone who likes to play around or needs special stitches for various fabrics and techniques. The SINGER 9985 is also a popular choice among quilters for its strong quilting capabilities, whipping out quilt blocks with specialized stitches.
That certain focus on ease of use is one of the aspects I appreciate most with modern computerized sewing machines, and for sure, the 9985 is no different. It has a large backlit LCD touchscreen, so you can quickly scroll through all those stitches and settings. And it comes with useful tutorials on-screen for things such as threading the machine or winding a bobbin. Now, this serves as a big plus point for me as I tend to forget the right steps at times.
For readers comparing models within the same brand, you might also explore the SINGER Quantum Stylist 9960 in our detailed review:
Key Features and Specifications
I was honestly a little intimidated when I first unboxed the SINGER Quantum Stylist 9985 by all that it seems to do. If you ask me, there is a long list of functions and ingenious details that make this machine really shine. Here’s a rundown of the key features I saw, along with some numbers for those who want them front and center.
Stitch Options and Capabilities
The first thing that impressed me was the number of built-in stitches. The machine boasts 960 built-in stitches, including decorative, utility, stretch, and six types of alphabets for monogramming or labels. There are 13 styles of buttonholes, all automatic, meaning they can handle everything from thin shirts to chunky jackets.
If you want to brush up on stitch types before diving in, check out:
Basic Sewing Stitches for Beginners
| Feature |
Details |
| Built-in Stitches |
960 |
| Alphabets |
6 fonts for monograms |
| Buttonhole Styles |
13 one-step choices |
| Mirror Imaging |
Yes |
| Stitch Elongation |
Yes |
| Max Sewing Speed |
850 stitches per minute |
If you enjoy sewing knits, creating home décor, or quilting, you’ll likely be fine with the customization. It also has a memory setting so you can save your favorite stitch combinations, which makes it easy for future projects.
Automatic Threading and Bobbin Winding
Here’s a feature that really helped me have an easier time: the automatic needle threader. You swipe a lever, the guide slides into position, and the thread darts through the needle’s eye. No more squinting or frustration. The bobbin drops directly into a see-through area, making it easy to spot when you’re running low and avoid sewing a half-finished seam.
Main highlights:
- Automatic needle threading in seconds
- Drop-in, transparent bobbin cover
- Built-in bobbin winder with easy guides
- Presser foot sensor that beeps if the foot’s up when you try to sew
LCD Touchscreen Display and Controls
I was never convinced that a sewing machine needed a touchscreen, but this one has changed my mind. It’s a full-color display, large enough to be able to see your stitch, and you choose stitches by tapping icons. Edit details, view tutorials on threading and bobbin insertion, or preview your current setups, and also adjust all kinds of settings. In addition, the stitch you select is displayed life-size, so there’s no guesswork.
The color LCD touchscreen allows stitch preview in actual size and on-screen tutorials. If you’re new to touchscreen models, reading How Do Sewing Machines Work? can give helpful context.
- Simply select your stitch and go
- On-screen guidance for new users
- Stitch preview in actual size
- Speed Slide Bar GUI slider right
I remember the first time I got a look at the LCD, scrolling through all of its settings out of simple curiosity. I was actually more comfortable using this than all the dials on my old machine.
Included Accessories and Attachments
At the price, you also get a surprisingly long list of extras with the Quantum Stylist 9985. The accessory tray is stuffed full, and you can sort of tell it was made for those who want to experience a taste of everything.
Included accessories:
- Extension table for bigger projects
- Soft dust cover
- 18 pressers (from walking foot to buttonhole, zipper, blind hem, satin stitch, and more)
- Extra bobbins and needles
- Seam ripper/lint brush combo
Versatility is the big selling point overall. This machine really seeks to be a jack-of-all-trades, from delicate blouses to thick quilts, so there is much to explore if you like options.
Performance and Ease of Use
When I got my hands on the SINGER Quantum Stylist 9985 for the first time, though, I wondered how it would actually pop. It looks pretty slick, but does it sew as well as it looks? For the most part, yes. I wondered if it was a very smooth operator.
It’s surprisingly quiet, which is a plus if you’re sewing late at night or early in the morning and don’t want to wake up the whole house. The stitches themselves were coming out super even, and I hardly had to mess with the tension at all, which was a relief.
Sewing Different Fabric Types
I smashed a bunch of materials into this machine to see how it would fare. It sliced through breezy cottons and linens like they were air. Even some of the trickier silks didn’t give it too much trouble, as long as I had the right needle and took my time. Where it most caught my attention, though, was with heavier material.
I put it to the test on a few layers of denim, a fabric that tends to make my old machine groan and sputter. The 9985 dealt with it surprisingly well. It felt stable, and I didn’t experience too much vibration, I think, thanks to its heavy-duty, metal frame. It’s not going to take the place of a dedicated industrial machine for super thick leather, but for nearly all home sewing projects, including quilting layers, it is more than up to the task.
Here’s a quick rundown of how it handled different fabrics:
- Lightweight Fabrics (like chiffon, voile): Produced clean stitches with minimal puckering.
- Medium Weight Fabrics (cotton, linen, polyester): Sewed effortlessly, handling standard projects with ease.
- Heavyweight Fabrics (denim, canvas, multiple quilt layers): Performed admirably, with good stability and consistent stitch quality.
- Knit Fabrics: Handled stretch stitches well, giving a professional finish without stretching out the fabric.
Durability and Build Quality
This machine feels solid. It has a little heft to it, which is a good thing in my book. Actually, that metal kind of midframe thing I noted earlier is a real boon. It doesn’t feel flimsy or like cheap, all-plastic machines. I can’t speak to long-term durability over years of repeated use simply because I haven’t had it for that long, but if the performance and feel hold in the long term, which we’d certainly expect from a construct like this, then I’m hopeful.
It feels like the kind of machine that, with rudimentary care, could last a really long time. It’s certainly not a lightweight, portable machine you’d throw in your bag every day, but for resting it on your sewing table, it feels pretty sturdy.
The one thing I was grateful for was that by default, the needle stopped down when you stopped sewing. It may seem minor, but it’s a lifesaver when you’re sewing around corners or need to pivot your fabric. You just stop, and the needle keeps your fabric in place to perfection while you turn. It’s one of those small, thoughtful touches that turns sewing into less work and more leisure activity.
Who is the SINGER Quantum Stylist 9985 For?
So, who is the SINGER Quantum Stylist 9985 aimed at specifically? I’ve been messing around with it, and I do think it works best for a few different types of sewists.
For one, if you’ve moved beyond total novice and are ready to take on more ambitious projects, this machine is a great step up. It has a whole lot of stitches, I mean, more than 960, so you have plenty of choices for whatever your mind can imagine, from decorative pieces to monograms. Its user-friendly touchscreen makes navigating all those stitches (and there are 100 available, by the way) surprisingly easy.
Here’s a quick rundown of who I think it’s best suited for:
- Ambitious Intermediate Sewists: Ready to move beyond basic stitches and explore more creative possibilities.
- Quilters: Need space and precise stitch control for piecing and decorative quilting.
- Crafters & Small Business Owners: Wanting to add professional touches like embroidery or custom lettering to items.
- Anyone who appreciates automation: Features like the automatic thread cutter and needle threader save a lot of time and frustration.
It’s a powerful machine, but I wouldn’t say it’s one you should get as your very first sewing machine if you’ve never touched one before. There’s a learning curve with any computerized model, and you may not feel so overwhelmed initially by simpler machines. But if you want to learn and get your skill levels up fast, this machine will not stop you.
Pros and Cons of the SINGER Quantum Stylist 9985
After spending some time with the SINGER Quantum Stylist 9985, I’ve put together a list of what I think are its biggest strengths and weaknesses. It’s a pretty capable machine, but like anything, it’s not perfect.
Pros of the SINGER Quantum Stylist 9985
- Remarkably Quiet: The motor is impressively quiet, especially during slow straight stitching. Even at higher speeds, it remains quieter than most machines — a big plus if others are around while you sew.
- Automatic Thread Cutter: Press one button and the machine cuts the thread and raises the needle automatically. It saves time and helps finish projects faster (though it doesn’t trim the leading tails).
- Plenty of Stitches & Features: With 990 built-in stitches — including many decorative options — there’s huge creative flexibility. The LCD touchscreen is intuitive and makes stitch selection simple.
- Good Lighting: A bright LED light above the needle provides excellent visibility, so there’s no need for extra lamps or clip-on lights.
- Speed Control: Adjustable speed control is excellent for beginners or detailed work. The machine won’t go too fast on lower settings even if you press the pedal harder.
Cons of the SINGER Quantum Stylist 9985
- Proprietary accessories can be annoying: It comes with a strong set of feet, but additional ones get expensive since they are designed specifically for this machine. Generic feet from older machines may not work well.
- Bobbin issues: It uses special bobbins, which can be inconvenient if you want a large assortment of thread colors ready to go. Using the wrong kind may cause problems.
- Some users report durability concerns: A few users mention long-term issues like the automatic thread cutter breaking or locking up the machine, raising questions about long-term toughness.
- Thread tension can be finicky: Thread tension may need occasional tweaking. Some reviews mention thread ripping or tension inconsistencies, so it’s something to keep an eye on.
So, bottom line: I believe the SINGER Quantum Stylist 9985 is a great machine that does provide high value, particularly for the price. The convenience features are great, and the stitch selection is impressive. Still, the dependence on proprietary parts and occasional stories of durability issues are certainly factors to weigh in before purchasing.
Comparison with Other Sewing Machines
When I have a new sewing machine to try out, especially one that’s touted as an upgrade, I always like to see how it compares to its rivals. It tells me if I’m getting a good price or if I need to keep looking. That said, here is how the SINGER Quantum Stylist 9985 stacks up against other computerized machines out there!)
SINGER Quantum Stylist 9985 vs Brother CS7000X
The Brother CS7000X is super popular, particularly for beginners, and I can understand why. It provides a lot of stitches for its price and tends to perform well. However, in comparison to the 9985, the SINGER really excels in stitch selection and advanced features. The 9985 also has many more stitches, including decorative stitching options that give you greater precision in editing and placement.
The CS7000X is a great starter machine, but the Quantum Stylist 9985 fits more into the mold of an advanced home sewing machine that can take on more complicated projects and creative embellishments. If you want a machine that grows with you, the 9985 is the better contender.
SINGER Quantum Stylist 9985 vs Janome 4120QDC
Another popular computerized sewing machine in the discussions is the Janome 4120QDC, a solid choice as well. It has a reputation for reliable performance and solid build quality. I discovered that where the Janome is a solid workhorse, with more emphasis on function, the SINGER 9985 is easier to use thanks to its touchscreen interface.
The 9985 also comes with an astronomical number of stitches, giving it a competitive advantage over those who like to play around with different decorative styles. Both machines are great for quilters, but the 9985’s extensive stitch library may be more appealing to those looking to add a little something special to their projects. It is certainly one of the cheaper sewing machines available in the high-end market.
Janome focuses on reliability and clean functionality. If you’re exploring Janome alternatives, check:
Best Janome Sewing Machines for Beginners
SINGER Quantum Stylist 9985 vs Juki HZL‑F300
Another reason is that the Juki HZL-F300 is known for its durable construction and ability to sew through heavy fabrics. It is a machine that seems designed to endure. The Juki has a very solid feel when I went up against the SINGER Quantum Stylist 9985. On the other hand, while SINGER has a touchscreen interface and comes with many stitches, including advanced editing options as well, that makes it more creative and versatile in sewing overall.
Similar to the computerized part for stitch manipulation of the 9985, which I love, it seems like you are getting a more modern machine here. It nicely showcases an inexpensive computerized sewing machine that cuts no corners in terms of features.
Here’s a quick look at some key differences:
- The SINGER 9985 has more to offer than both the Brother CS7000X and Janome 4120QDC.
- User interface: The 9985 features an LCD touchscreen that, for the most part, is more intuitive than the button-heavy interfaces found on some other models.
- Advanced Features: The accurate editing features on the 9985 are what set it apart for decorative stitching and intricate patterns.
- Value Proposition: The SINGER 9985 provides excellent high-end sewing machine performance for the features you receive and at a solid price point, making it one of the best choices in computerized sewing machine reviews.
So, What’s the Verdict?
I used the Singer Quantum Stylist 9985 for a while, and I can say it’s a machine that really impressed me. It has a crapload of different stitches, so you can get creative, and the touchscreen makes selecting them fairly easy.
I found it worked pretty easily with a decent variety of fabrics, going from lighter stuff to some thicker materials without much fuss. It’s not the lightest (or the cheapest) machine around, and perhaps a bit more than you need if you’re just getting started in sewing, but for someone looking to up their game and add options and features to what they do, this is absolutely worth checking out. It seems like a good investment for big and small projects.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many stitches does the SINGER Quantum Stylist 9985 have?
The SINGER Quantum Stylist 9985 comes with 960 built-in stitches. These include basic, decorative, stretch stitches, and even several fonts for lettering.
Is the SINGER Quantum Stylist 9985 hard to use if I’m a beginner?
Even though it has a lot of features, I found the touchscreen and automatic functions make it pretty easy to learn. If you’ve used a sewing machine before, you’ll pick it up quickly. Total beginners might need a little practice, but the tutorials on the screen help a lot.
Can this machine sew thick fabrics like denim or leather?
Yes, I’ve used it on denim and even some light leather. As long as I use the right needle and go slow, the machine handles thicker fabrics well. The strong metal frame keeps it steady, so it doesn’t shake much.
Does the SINGER Quantum Stylist 9985 have an automatic needle threader?
Yes, it does. The automatic needle threader saves me a lot of time and frustration, especially when I’m changing thread colors often.
What accessories come with the SINGER Quantum Stylist 9985?
Inside the box, I got several presser feet, an extension table, a hard cover, bobbins, needles, and other handy tools. The extension table is really useful for bigger projects like quilts.
Can I control how fast the sewing machine goes?
Yes, there’s a speed control slider on the front. I can make it sew super slow for tricky spots or speed it up when I’m working on long seams. It’s helpful for both beginners and more advanced projects.
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