Product · Brother
Brother JX17FE: 17 stitches, metal inner frame
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The Brother JX17FE is a lightweight mechanical machine for beginners, students and anyone who needs a second machine for classes. At 4.5 kg with a carrying handle built into the body, it is one of the easiest machines on this site to move around, and a metal internal structure gives it more rigidity than its weight suggests. The Fantasy Edition styling adds a decorative finish.
- Stitches
- 17
- Buttonhole
- 4-step
- Needle threader
- Not stated
- Weight
- 4.5 kg
In its favour
- The listing states a double height presser foot, a metal plate and 6 row feed for thicker fabrics.
- At 4.5 kg it is light, with a carry handle built into the body.
- Needle position control and thread tension adjustment are listed.
Good to know
- A four step buttonhole needs more care than a one-step buttonhole to get matching sizes.
- There is no needle threader, screen or speed control mentioned.
Our take
Stitches and controls
The listing describes 17 sewing stitches, including back stitch, straight stitch in 6 designs, stretch stitches and a zigzag. Needle position control and thread tension adjustment are listed, and the buttonhole is a 4-step type with an adjustable buttonhole foot.
A 4-step buttonhole means you turn the dial through four stages: one side, the end bar, the other side and the final bar. It takes practice to make several the same length, but it works well once learned.
Built for occasional thick fabric
Brother states a double height presser foot lift, a metal plate, rotary grippers, a powerful motor and a 6-row feed. These help with denim hems and canvas tote bags. The LED-lit work area helps you see the stitch line on dark fabric.
Portability and free arm
The free arm makes round seams possible on trouser legs, cuffs and small items. The integrated handle and light weight make it ideal for carrying to a sewing class or between homes. The spec table lists a 220 volt input, a metal material and 12 years of EU spare part availability, which is reassuring for a starter machine.
Against the FS20S and Singer 2273 Tradition
The Brother FS20S adds an LCD, 20 stitches including 4 stretch stitches and 3 buttonholes, with an anti-tilt foot button. The Singer 2273 Tradition has 23 stitches, a fully automatic one-step buttonhole and an automatic needle threader at 7 kg. The JX17FE is simpler than both, and lighter than the Singer.
Who should choose differently
If you plan to make shirts or cardigans with many buttonholes, a one-step buttonhole machine like the Brother SH40 or Singer 2273 will save time. The listing does not mention a needle threader, so anyone with eyesight concerns should pick a model that states one.
Verdict
Choose the Brother JX17FE if you want a light, simple mechanical machine with a metal inner frame and free arm for classes, mending and first projects. If a one-step buttonhole and automatic threader matter, the Singer 2273 Tradition is the better fit, and the Brother SH40 adds speed control.
Compared with alternatives in: Best sewing machines for beginners
Amazon listing title: Brother JX17FE