Then hold the plastic bit of the needle threader and push the fine metal part through the eye of the needle from the BACK (that’s bits important) once pushed through take your thread and push it in between the metal diamond shape, hold the end of the thread and pull the needle threader backwards and out of the eye of the needle, it will pull the thread through the eye of the needle as it goes, keep pulling until it all through. If you are a novice (like me) or even a more advanced stitcher - I think this machine will suit you. Compared to some sewing machines the FS40 is quite limited with regards to the accessories you get with it. In addition, you can choose from an impressive array of 40 stitch options, get up close and personal with convenient backlit LCD control panel and the drop feed to create free hand embroidery. The start/stop function with speed setting allows you to control the machine with your hands without using the included foot pedal.

The Brother FS40 is a compact sewing machine designed to be easy to use and provide good stitch quality. I would say that the manual is very confusing to read as it has instructions for different models on the same page (or maybe it's just me! Being able to slow the speed down, still maintain correct pressure and full control will make it far less likely that you make a costly mistake. The sewing machine has lots of extra presser feet and very easy to put on and off (no fiddly screws) too.At busy times such as sale periods we may not be able to dispatch your item until the next working day. I've literally just opened the box today and after reading the top notch user manual did my first 1-step buttonhole which was the main reason for the upgrade (the Singer was butchering my creations). It does come with a very helpful instructional DVD that explains in an easy to understand way, how to use the machine in the most effective manner. With 40 stitches, stop/start buttons and a wide range of presser feet it offers very good value for money. The instruction pamphlet is reasonably clear, but care is required to begin with while reading it (some instructions relate to models with auto threading and so on and we found it easy to initially get side tracked).

To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. If you are interested in this model but would like more stitches to choose from, I would recommend checking out the Brother FS100WT, which is an even more impressive sewing machine. Set up is reasonable, but perhaps in hindsight an automatic needle threader would have been a bonus. The sequel to FS40, and one of the new ones in the series of innovative quality sewing machines from Brother. Accessories included: Wide table, Zigzag foot, overcast stitch foot, monogramming foot, blind stitch foot, buttonhole foot, zipper foot, button sewing foot, seam ripper, cleaning brush, set of needles, spare bobbins, L-shape screw driver, foot control, dust cover, QR code for online instructional movie gallery.

Remember to consult the user manual provided with the Brother FS40 Sewing Machine for specific instructions and to familiarize yourself with all the machine’s features and functions. In addition to the obvious advantages of the machine's construction, which exudes innovation, stability and quality, you get a larger working surface with the new FS40s. I’ve used it so far on making a skirt and for sewing pieces of my machine knitted garments, like this baby cardigan in my photo here. In terms of durability it is a bit of a mixed bunch, with the inner components been made from both plastic and metal. It is only when you understand what a particular model can do that you know if it is suitable for your sewing needs.

With the transparent lid, you are assured that it is always the right color thread that is in the machine. If the item comes direct from a manufacturer, it may be delivered in non-retail packaging, such as a plain or unprinted box or plastic bag. I really like the brightly lit screen showing me clearly what stitch number I’m using and even advises what presser foot to use.

The relatively lightweight and built-in handle make it very portable and a good choice for those that take part in regular sewing classes. A selection of 40 automatic stitches is perfect for unleashing your creativity, allowing you to give a professional finish to everything you mend or create, from dressmaking and curtains to alterations to your most-loved items. Accessories included: Zigzag foot, overcast stitch foot, monogramming foot, blind stitch foot, buttonhole foot, zipper foot, button sewing foot, seam ripper, cleaning brush, set of needles, spare bobbins, L-shape screw driver, foot control, dust cover, QR code for online instructional movie gallery. In total there are 40 stitches these include 5 buttonhole stitches, 16 decorative stitches and a good number of stretch/elastic stitches. Furthermore if you are in to doing a lot of free-motion sewing and embroidery the feed dogs can be dropped.