Brother Skitch PP1 Embroidery Machine Review and First Project

[@craftwithfelicia]

Materials used in this video here (affiliate links): ✓ Brother Skitch PP1 - amzn.to/3wO7S0H ✓ Embroidery Thread - amzn.to/3TutxnD ✓ Flour Sack - amzn.to/48MJU32

[@tmcmommy3345]

AWESOME video! This is probably the best getting started video of this machine I've watched!

[@craftwithfelicia]

Wow, thanks! We appreciate the feedback. More videos on this machine coming soon. 🙂

[@lock.robster]

Impressive! Excellent review. You have to admit the texture, colors, and dimensionality of embroidery look soooooo much more upscale than the same personalized creations made with heat transfer vinyl. While HTV survives up to 50 wash and dry cycles before cracking or peeling, embroidery lasts longer. This is why you rarely see physician offices, restaurants, golf courses, hotel chains, and most professional businesses using HTV - it kind of looks cheesy! Amiright? They use embroidery. Excited that Skitch allows home crafters an affordable entry point into embroidery. Heard you can embroider on to leather and cardstock too. Seen some embroidered greeting cards at Target. Hoping Skitch can do that too. Excited!

[@craftwithfelicia]

Thanks for the awesome feedback. I agree you you. Embroidery does look so professional. I’m going to have to look into embroidery on leather and cardstock. Sounds interesting.

[@nougatnutty]

Vinyl is so ghettoesque

[@jharper74]

We were very new to embroidery. We were looking at this one at one point and got scared because the reviews were up and down. Ended up getting the Brother PE900. You and your husband now got me excited about this model all over again, lol.

[@craftwithfelicia]

I do like the 5x7 hoop size on the PE900. It’s a nice machine. I had the PE800 previously and it was great. The Skitch only goes to 4x4 which can be limiting. I do love the magnetic hoop that comes with the Skitch and wish it were standard on other comparable machines. After we finished making this video today, I decided to jump in and try a hat. We bought the 3x3 magnetic hoop separately and I was able to make a perfect hat first try. I was so excited. We will make a video shortly on that process. 🙂

[@jharper74]

@FamilyUnit That is awesome!! yes, the magnetic hoopes looks to be great. Thank you so much for all you do. Definitely gained a forever subscriber.

[@tmcmommy3345]

If I'm honest, I wouldn't recommend the Skitch for beginners. While it seems great on the outside, there are so many variables it doesn't account for that only someone who knows embroidery can really address. I wish Brother would take a lot of of the features from this machine and other "usual" machines and combine them. The free-arm aspect alone of this is where Brother could really saturate the casual embroidery market.

[@craftwithfelicia]

@@tmcmommy3345 - I agree. There are features of Skitch that I wish my SE2000 had.

[@FreshandFelicia]

@@tmcmommy3345 Which machine would you recommend for beginners?

[@wendymasters367]

AMAZING ❤❤❤

[@craftwithfelicia]

Thanks. 😊

[@wendymasters367]

I just ordered one from Amazon. It will be here tomorrow. Thank you!

[@dswawa123]

I just bought this machine too. But I have bobbin thread showing too. What kind of bobbin thread did you use?

[@craftwithfelicia]

After posting this video, I did more testing and found that the bobbin thread that came with the machine worked fine. I have a feeling for my first attempt I didn't have the bobbin installed correctly and got lucky the next time. When you put the bobbin in, there's a little silver slot that you have to put the thread behind before moving to the left side. Hope that makes sense.

[@dswawa123]

Thank you! I actually figured out last night as well. My first installation of the bobbin thread missed a step. After I correct it and everything works fine. @@craftwithfelicia

[@FINE_2K978]

❤ Thank you so much I figured out I was threading the bobbin wrong when I I read your comment . I was about to give up

[@GuyNamedRy]

This is the first video I saw and it helped me so much thank you

[@craftwithfelicia]

Awesome. Thanks for the feedback 😊

[@cathymayfield2064]

It looks like something I would love. How expensive is it?

[@craftwithfelicia]

The Brother Skitch PP1 is $500 - amzn.to/3wO7S0H #ad

[@Voitech2023]

I’m looking to add logos to our work uniform. It’s just one basic design (text / logo) and would be embroidered onto a cotton polo. Would this machine be sufficient for that? I’m not bothered about the subscription and I can certainly digitise our logo etc.

[@craftwithfelicia]

As long as you can work within the 4x4 space, you should be good to go. For bigger sizes, maybe look at the Brother SE700 or SE2000.

[@Voitech2023]

@@craftwithfelicia Thank you for your reply! It’s much appreciated! We won’t require that big of a space to be honest. It’s just a simple logo on the left chest area, so I will go ahead and purchase. Thank you again 🙏

[@Lpcocustomapparel]

Hey guys love the video I was wondering if you know why my Skitch is saying to many color changes for embroidery but works fine in cross stitch

[@craftwithfelicia]

I haven't come across that issue with mine. There's a Skitch Facebook group that may be able to help - facebook.com/groups/719432283708532

[@giuliamarini1612]

hello, is it possible to embroider on the leather? Moreover do you know thickness of yarn can be used?

[@craftwithfelicia]

I would think it could handle very thin leather. Checked Brother's website on the thickness - www.brother-usa.com/products/pp1?srsltid=AfmBOoqUi3xRgSgg2M9CNBBGk43TNC56h4Hst8lqIxiwwBq429IJBQz8#accessories

[@nicoleowens3241]

Hi!! I just set up my machine, but I’m having issues with it getting bunched up and it keeps saying the upper thread and I’m threading it step-by-step and I’m still getting the bobbin and the thread is bunched up. How can I fix this?

[@craftwithfelicia]

@@nicoleowens3241 - not sure what’s going on with that. If you’re not a part of this Facebook group - facebook.com/share/wJP57zTsgmNokSgb/?mibextid=K35XfP - join. That group is super helpful and you may find your answer there. 🙂

[@wartortleJNKZ]

I’m looking to get my first machine and I’m between this and the SE700, if I digitize 3rd party can I import and embroider the image with the apps free version or would I have to pay for the subscription?

[@craftwithfelicia]

I believe you have to have the paid version - unless Brother has changed something.

[@GiveThemWell]

Love you guys 😂

[@craftwithfelicia]

Love you back! ❤️

[@jacquelinruiz6595]

I’ve never done embroidery I just became interested and this is my first video! Thanks for making it so simple. Any tips for someone who wants to start, mostly shirts / sweatshirts?

[@craftwithfelicia]

I think the big thing to consider is the size of designs you want to make. This machine has a 4x4 hoop. For bigger things, I use my Brother SE2000 which has a 5x7 hoop and does sewing and embroidery. Check out the Brother PE900 if you want a bigger 5x7 hoop and only want to do embroidery.

[@rdps97]

Could you share what bobbin thread you used for water the issues? I'm having the same problem, it gets stuck every time! Bought my machine months ago and advent been able to use it because of that.

[@craftwithfelicia]

I used what came with my machine. Nothing special

[@stuff1822-w4i]

how would you recommend the Brother PE770 Embroidery Machine for sweathshirts?

[@craftwithfelicia]

I haven't used that one so I'm not sure. My daughter has the PE700 and has used it on scrubs but I don't think she's tried it on sweatshirts yet.

[@stuff1822-w4i]

@@craftwithfelicia ok ty!

[@corrineamos4244]

I've pressed my accept button and it's now not back to ready mode. I've followed your tutorial, do you have any suggestions please?

[@craftwithfelicia]

Hmmmm....not sure what's going on there. This Facebook group is super helpful and may be able to tell you what's going on - facebook.com/share/g35d9dr6xsmKrsjC/

[@pattishelton3169]

I’ve wanted to buy this machine just because it’s so easy to stitch on a onesie. There’s a lot I like about the machine price, and magnetic hoop, easy to load hoop. But, I just can’t get past the subscription thing and not being able to load designs with usb or wireless connection from my computer where all my designs are stored. No subscriptions for me I guess and not this machine that I love. Thanks for an awesome review it was really great.

[@craftwithfelicia]

You're welcome. The subscription and having to use the app is problematic for a lot of folks including myself. I go back to my Brother SE2000 all the time.

[@Makeup2456]

Can this machine stitch beads onto fabric?

[@craftwithfelicia]

Good question but I'm not sure.

[@gailstrumberger1208]

Thank you for recording a straight-up no nonsense video on the unboxing and use of this machine. I'm tired of the ladies who bitch and make snarky comments about the product and number of free embroidery patterns with the app. Some of us just want to see how the set the thing up and how it functions--with the app. Now I know--and I just bought one!

[@craftwithfelicia]

Glad I could help! Enjoy your new machine!

[@Turtles-r3o]

Hello. What would you recommend for embroidering letters aka military names

[@craftwithfelicia]

If they are larger than 4x4 Skitch isn’t the machine you want. Really depends on size.

[@acunaroddy]

What brother sew and embroidery machine is that?

[@craftwithfelicia]

The Skitch is an embroidery machine only. I have a Brother SE2000 that does sew and embroider.

[@Iamascreen]

Does the Skitch cut jump threads

[@craftwithfelicia]

It did for me.

[@Janetkaylila]

can you embroider names? is there a selection of single letters? what about a 3-letter monogram ex: gHm

[@craftwithfelicia]

In the app there are some letters and you can use fonts in the app. For monograms, I would try to create them in a different program and bring them in. With the Skitch, you can only go as big as the 4x4 hoop.

[@wasamurphy7796]

I like how you said it looks like a coffee maker, because it took me 2 or 3 search attempts trying to figure out why is there a coffee machine listing with my embroidery search

[@craftwithfelicia]

LOL Right out of the box my first thought was coffee maker.

[@Mwarihelp]

Can u use any thread? Also what is the average price for a computerized embroidery machine? Good video

[@craftwithfelicia]

Any embroidery thread will work. I used what I had on hand.

[@debco12]

Avoid anything that requires a subscription. It’s going to wind up costing a lot more in the long run. With such a small embroidery field, this isn’t such a bargain. There are other machines out there with the same size field that have a history of reliability, don’t require a subscription, and are cost effective. You can also find some really great used machines.

[@craftwithfelicia]

Good points. For someone new to embroidery and just wanting to get started, this may be a good option.

[@debco12]

@@craftwithfelicia I recently traded in my old embroidery machine for one with a larger field. Not a thing wrong with the old one. Find a reliable dealer who has been in business for a while when looking for a used machine. There are a lot of good machines out there that were only traded in because the owner wanted something bigger.

[@lock.robster]

@@debco12 Great advice but I'd rather buy personally. Both of our local dealers are more interested in selling service contracts and classes, plus they mark up machines substantially to cover their overhead. Got my last machine on Facebook Marketplace for $1000 less than my dealer.

[@craftwithfelicia]

@debco12 - Good to know dealers do trade ins on these machines. I may look into that later, but for now, I'm still playing with the Stitch. 😀

[@nickdroid5810]

@@debco12 hi may I know your recommendation list? thanks

[@cristtianflores4808]

How can i put a logo of my company

[@craftwithfelicia]

We used ZDigitizing for ours. ZDigitizing Store Website: Coupon: chuckoff Applied Coupon Link: zdigitizing.net/shop/?coupon-code=chuckoff ZDigitizing Service Website: Coupon: chuckoff Applied Coupon Link: zdigitizing.com/product-category/services/?coupon-code=chuckoff

[@Janetkaylila]

how much is the monthly fees?

[@craftwithfelicia]

It's $12.99/month but you can do some stuff with the free version. Check it out here - www.brother-usa.com/home/sewing-embroidery/artspira

[@Eludinium]

Seems odd there's no way to send designs from PC though? That's quite a drawback in my opinion.

[@craftwithfelicia]

Agree. They should have handled this differently.

[@Chi22718]

Can you take your own picture and make it

[@craftwithfelicia]

Yes! In the app

[@cmaurizio19406]

Question: If you have appliqué from say AccuQuilt, can that be loaded into the Aspire app?

[@craftwithfelicia]

Yes. But keep in mind, if you’re using the Skitch you’re limited to a 4x4 frame.

[@cmaurizio19406]

@@craftwithfelicia Thanks...yes and I also see to import you own files you have to have a subscription? That's a huge fail for me... :(

[@craftwithfelicia]

@@cmaurizio19406 - I agree. You HAVE to use the app with the Skitch and the fact that you have to pay to import is NOT cool! Brother needs to reconsider this.

[@helloworldchihuahuas4010]

I was so excited when I first stumbled across this little machine…. But then I realized how little you can do without the monthly subscription… the price of the machine is just TOO HIGH when a 15$ month subscription is required for even uploading your own design! A Maschine that could have been fun, but ultimately fails on the financial side with both its purchase cost and app subscription. I’ll just stick to my cricut and singer heavy duty

[@craftwithfelicia]

I prefer my Brother SE2000. I think Brother made a mistake forcing you to use the app with this machine.

[@SocialContraire]

You rent a machine you purchased? No ty

[@craftwithfelicia]

You are forced to use the app but can use free version. It’s disappointing that Brother made this machine this way.

[@catsmewlaserspewcatsmewlasersp]

Interesting, but absolutely hate subscription service which is biggest scam. I refuse any subscription services. From what I understand I wouldn’t be able to do hats with this small machine too right? Thanks for the video, pretty informative and my words towards the subscription is towards brother, not you 😊

[@craftwithfelicia]

I completely agree and canceled my subscription after the trial period. Just not worth it. Brother should rethink charging for the app on a machine that works better with it.

[@waltertoomes1098]

Nice machine but it looks like they are taking two steps backwards on the design..

[@craftwithfelicia]

I agree. I don't like the fact that I have to use the app to use this machine.

[@mikec5992]

The app required to use this is ridiculous. It's too expensive. And what happens if they decide the app become outdated or don't support it anymore? I won't by anything that requires an app.

[@craftwithfelicia]

Agreed. That's the downfall with this machine. I prefer my Brother SE2000.

[@cheryltracy3553]

Be careful in this space. There are several entitled yet misinformed older women who we call “embroidery snobs” trying to defend their purchases of $15000 Viking machines 😂

[@mollygreathouse1191]

Seems like they have already entered the room LMAO

[@craftwithfelicia]

We think everyone should have the opportunity to try embroidery.

[@wendymasters367]

OMG “Embroidery Snobs!” 😂 I made the mistake of talking about my Brother PE800 at Joann’s one day while buying fabric and some older women LAUGHED at me! I felt terrible!

[@taijuanabalsick696]

Avoid the stitch machine. Not good enough for the price. App is terrible. Better off getting a different machine.

[@craftwithfelicia]

@@taijuanabalsick696 - it’s a good machine and works well but having to use the app to operate it is a drawback.

[@charleneweege7149]

Not a good machine for serious embroiderers. For kids. It's a subscription scam too.

[@craftwithfelicia]

I agree it’s not for the advanced embroiderer, but it’s good for beginners or someone wanting to embroider and get a machine at a lower price point. If you’re purchasing designs or designing them with other software then there’s no need to upgrade to Artspira+, but Brother is charging for the ability to digitize images.

[@charleneweege7149]

@@craftwithfelicia Right. I've had Brother machines for almost 25 years. I'm done with them. There are better options out there.

[@craftwithfelicia]

@@charleneweege7149 - curious - what do you think would be a better option? Maybe we need to investigate that.

[@FreshandFelicia]

@@charleneweege7149Like what for example? Which machine are you using?

[@charleneweege7149]

@@craftwithfelicia I'm now doing the 15 needle professional machines for a serious embroidery business. If you're looking for cheap machine for a startup business, Brother is still a good option. It's simple to learn and use but the Skitch is a scam machine. Their cheap combo embroidery/sewing machines are better. Janome and Husqvarna Viking are probably better than Brother.

[@denisenava1441]

The guy is to much, I couldn't continue watching, he interrupts her non-stop🤬

[@craftwithfelicia]

Bummer you feel that way. He asks questions that others may be thinking and helps guide the video along.

[@wendymasters367]

COMPLETELY disagree! Fresh cracks me up. He was a TV talk show host back in the day. Do you hate men?

[@Zan823]

I wanted this to be great but the reviews are terrible. Shame since it looks amazing.

[@ChuckFresh]

This review seems pretty darn positive. I suppose we see what we want.

[@craftwithfelicia]

It’s a great machine but the downside is you have to use the Artspira app. Otherwise I love it.