The Singer 8500Q sewing machine is a model of what every sewing machine should be. This machine not only can sew through just about anything you throw at it, but it can also quilt. Being 37.6 pounds, no amount of heavy or thick fabric will tip this machine over. Some other features included in this machine is an extension table (very important for any quilter), 215 total different stitches, and a computerized system for choosing a stitch.
The computerized system is an amazing feature that any sewist would dream of having. 215 stitches, 17 of them being quilting stitches, are a lot to choose from. Having the computerized system really helps the sewist stay organized and less overwhelmed with the number of choices they have of stitches.
This quilting machine is a powerhouse that can sew through anything you throw at it. Although the Singer 8500Q is on the more expensive side, the number of features included in the purchase makes the price worth it.
Singer 8500Q: Key Features
Warranty
This particular model is covered by a 25-year limited warranty. The sewing machine itself is completely covered for 12 months. Up to 12 months after the purchase, the manufacturer will repair any defect in the sewing machine. Although 12 months is a short warranty time, after the 12 month period, the manufacturer will send the replacement parts to you for free. The only charge will be if you send in your machine to be fixed by them; as they charge for labor.
The parts have an even longer warranty period. Parts such as the speed control, switches, light assembly, wiring, motor, and any other electronic part have a 5-year warranty. The only catch is that you will be charged for labor to replace the parts. The parts themselves, however, are free.
Threading
Any sewing machine nowadays should include an automatic needle threader. The Singer company made sure to include the needle threader in the Singer 8500Q because it creates less frustration for any sewist using it. Using the automatic needle threader will make changing out the thread take only a minute of the sewist’s time.
The Workspace
An attachable extension table is very important for any quilter as it gives them more control over the fabric they are sewing. The Singer 8500Q includes an extra-large table that attaches to the sewing machine that basically doubles the workspace. Any quilter would absolutely love to have a workspace this large.
Knee Lifter
Normally, a sewist will run into problems when pivoting their fabric. The meaning of pivoting problems is that the sewist has a hard time holding the fabric, pivoting the fabric, and using the pressure foot at the same time. Included in the Singer 8500Q is a knee-lifter that is available for hands-free use. This advanced knee-lifter solved the problem of not having enough hands.
LCD Display
The LCD screen displays the smart computerized system where the sewist can choose between the numerous number of stitches programmed into the machine. The screen also allows the sewist to personalize the stitches by changing the length and widths.
Stitch Selection
The Singer 8500Q includes so many stitches, it will hard to keep track of them. The total of 215 different stitches included in the machine comprise of 17 quilting stitches, 6 buttonhole stitches, 6 stretch stitches, and 176 decorative stitches. No matter if the sewist is a professional or a beginner, they will have no problem finding the perfect stitch for them. Because of the computerized system, choosing a stitch is easier than ever.
Easy to Use
Included in the Singer 8500Q is a user’s manual that is easy to read for anyone. The manual is packed full of helpful information and explains all the different features included in the sewing machine. Even though the machine itself is pretty self-explanatory, the instruction manual is very useful.
Accessories
The amazing amount of features included in the Singer 8500Q sewing machine is astonishing. This machine is built to be reliable, powerful, and efficient; no matter which features the sewist is utilizing. The large LCD screen placed on the front of the machine displays the computerized stitch system. Using this system, the sewist is able to choose between the hundreds of different stitches included in the system. Through the system, the sewist can also customize the stitch settings by changing the length, width, and size of the stitch.
On top of the amazing computerized system that basically just sells itself, this Singer sewing machine also includes many other features and accessories that really set this machine apart from others of its kind.
The accessories included are:
- Zipper foot
- All-purpose foot
- Button sewing foot
- Blind hem foot
- Satin stitch foot
- Buttonhole foot
- Needles
- Thread spool caps and nets
- Bobbins
- Screwdrivers
- Spool pin felt
- Lint brush
- Seam ripper
- Knee lifter
- Extension table
A couple of other accessories that Singer manufacturer sells are a quarter-inch foot, open toe foot, quilting, and edge guide, and a walking/even feed foot.
Specifications
- Weight: 37.6 pounds
- Dimensions: 22 x 9.5 x 13 inches
- Stitches: 215 built-in stitches, (6 automatic 1-Step buttonholes)
- Speed: 60 Hz
- Computerized/Mechanic: Computerized
- Bobbin: “Drop & Sew” bobbin system
- Warranty: 25-year limited warranty
Pros
- Free-motion sewing and quilting
- Heavy- perfect for quilting
- 215 different quilting and sewing stitches
- Computerized system
- Attachable extension table
- 25-year warranty
- Easy to use for beginners
Cons
- Expensive
- Some complaints about the automatic needle threader breaking easily
- Poor bobbin quality
- Can only be used in either the United States or Canada due to its required voltage
Conclusion
Overall, the Singer 8500Q Sewing and Quilting machine can be the perfect pick for a sewist out there who is looking for a quilting machine that includes loads of different stitches. The many different features included in the sewing machine makes this an easy buy for anyone.
The only downside is that there are some complaints about the bobbin and automatic needle threader breaking easily. It is also a bit expensive.
If this sewing machine includes the exact features you are looking for, then I highly recommend this machine for you.