I enjoy sewing very much, so when I purchase this one I was very happy that it was very easy to use. I started sewing in school, so I do know how to sew, because at that time we were taught how to read patterns, and we also learned all about our sewing machines. Now at school, the girls just don't get to learn the same way that we did. For the price of this sewing maching, and the fact that it is of a sturdy quality, you will have many happy years of sewing. I would make many of my daugthers clothes, staring out from infants to adults. Now I'm at the point of making many of my graunddaughters clothes. Like my last project was to make a winter coat, along with a scarf and hat to match. My granddaughters look so cute in their new coats. That brings me so much joy. So this sewing machine is a true keeper for me, and I hope that it will last a very long time. The little up keep so far is not bad. Stitch Performance The stitch performance is good, now that I know what I'm doing. Ease of Use It is easy to use, just try it. Fabric Handling Fabric handing is not great. Sometimes if the fabric is to thick, I have a hard time sewing, because the thread will break. Versatility It has versatility, you just need to know how to use it. Design The design looks good. Durability I feel that the durability is very good. I have been using this machine for some time, and if you take care of it, it will last.

hungrygirl

Kenosha, WI

Owning a unique European sleep system/comforter, I soon ran out of fitting covers. Which means I had to make my own. My husband surprised me on day with this sewing machine so I wouldn't have to go to a friends house and use theirs. Having used different old style models in the past, this was easier to operate than my microwave. The handbook (once you found what you were looking for) explained every stitch and technique so easy and reproducable, that it encouraged me to try them out - not just on my covers. I learned a lot in just a few minutes. So now I'm not afraid of making somewhat twin-sized coveres anymore. I even skipped the crib sheets altogether to make custom ones for my son a few times a year. This machine is quickly set up and stowed away for a quick seam or large tasks, takes minimal space and fits into almost any space available. With it's great selection of patterns it's an excellent value buy. The case is sturdy and easy to clean, as is the moving parts. Good household addition for the occasional do-it-yourself mom/wife.

BlnBikerin1

Anaheim, CA

I got the Brother XL 5232 because I asked my friend who is an amazing seamstress for a good starter machine and she recommended brother. The local sewing store had a 1/2 off sale, and this one was one of the cheapest. That said, it HAS been a great starter machine! It rarely gets tangled (a problem with my first machine--tension kept loosening). It's also fairly easy the thread. I haven't had any trouble changing the bobbin yet, but it doesn't seem like it would be a problem for anyone. I wonder what the other reviewers are having problems with? I've used my friend's computerized machine, and that one seems very complicated and intimidating to me, though it can do some fabulous things! Still, this one seems to fit me and my needs. I've only had it a short time, but so far so good!

mum22girls

Portland, OR

I love, love my sewing machine! I am no expert sewer but this machine makes it so easy. I have had no issues with my machine and it works well. It has so many options that you can do most any project. I had never taken any formal classes so I really learned how to use my machine on my own. The manual is perfect and explains everything so well. You can't go wrong with this sewing machine. Every button is easy to use and understand. Threading the bobbin is super easy. I have had it jam up on me a few times but I don't think it was the machine more likely my ignorance as to what I should be doing! But even when it jams it is super easy to fix. I absolutely would recommend this machine to anyone who loves sewing.

vbcarr

North Grosvenordale, CT

This isn't a bad starter machine. I liked it at first (better than the older Brother machine my mother in law loaned me before I bought this one), but it just jams so much now and the thread breaks all the time. I try different tensions, I try different bobbins, I just can't seem to figure out the trick of the machine. I am a beginner, so that could be part of the reason, but my mother in law has looked at it too to try to get it working better for me and she has been sewing for 30 years and she had the same problems I was having. She has a Brother (a newer, better model) and it works great, so Brothers are normally pretty good machines, this one just isn't the best. It also does not do well with fuzzy or minky fabrics, gets jammed very easily. The thread gets jammed and tangled in the bobbin area very often and it is very hard to get it untangled. I would recommend spending a little more money on a better machine.

grizz1803

O Fallon, MO

This might be good for the occaisional hem, but in my opinion it would be better to spend a little more and get a sewing machine that doesn't skip stitches or regularly jam.  This seems to have problems with both of those issues. I purchased it to use for quilting.  Wrong move.  The preser foot regularly gets jammed with thread, causing you to stop, trim and start over, wasting much time.   The bobbin can be difficult to thread, and, again, often gets jammed. For the money, I thought it was a good deal.  I was wrong.  I should have spent just a little more to get a machine with more features and and better quality.     This might be good for a very beginner machine for a young girl, but not for the serious seamstress.  It would surely bring nothing but frustration and disappointment. I tend to try to look at the positive, and don't relish the idea of writing a negative review, but cannot in good conscience recommend this machine to anyone knowing what a poor job it truly does.

happy123

Round Rock, TX

If I could give the Brothers sewing machine less than 1 star, I would.  I will never, never, and I can not put enough nevers in my review, by a Brothers machine again.  It works well until you have to change the bobbin.  Then you can spend over an hour trying to put it back in the machine.  Run, run far away from this piece of machinery. 

buddystinks

Chicago, IL

I inherited the XL-5232 machine from my grandmother. Mine is probably ten years old. It has basic stitches, as well as a few fun ones like zig-zag. There aren't any fancy stitches, but if you are just looking for a good machine without the frills, this is it. The manual is helpful, but I've gotten along without it for the most part, it's so easy. It's sturdy, too; I've dropped it twice and everything works fine! There's even a little storage area inside to keep your extra needles and such. Good for the crafty and and the housewives alike!

nakono

Perry Hall, MD

I got this machine as a christmas present a few years ago and I have never had any trouble with it. I have never been trained how to sew but it was still easy enough to use right out of the box.  It is very easy to switch settings.  I use it for fabric and paper.

ngrg

Dacono, CO