The HC1850 is Brother’s entry-level offering in the computerized sewing machine class. The machine can handle regular sewing chores, quilting, and embroidery with little fuss. Sewers will find that the stitch collection is impressive in its number of built-in stitches, including sewing stitches, alphanumeric styles, and auto-sized buttonholes for just about any purpose.
This machine is a reasonable choice for the home sewing enthusiast who is just beginning to explore their skill and creativity. Using the various capabilities of the HC1850 will introduce the sewer to how a versatile machine can make everyday sewing chores look better, wear longer, and become individualized.
After decades of sewing on various home machines, I took a close look at all the HC1850 has to offer. I consulted other sewing experts and retailers to find out just how the device may fit your needs.
Here is what you’ll find.
- Is the Brother HC1850 right for you?
- An honest list of features and flaws
- What to expect when you buy
- Alternative choices to the HC1850
Below is a list of the HC1850 features prospective buyers most wish to know.
Our Rating = 4.8 / 5
For light home sewing, the Brother HC1850 earns 4.8 out of a possible 5.0.
In this article:
Is the Brother HC1850 right for you?
The HC1850 may be a good option for beginner to intermediate sewers stretching their capabilities using a sewing machine that offers a range of stitching, quilting, and decorative work.
- The HC1850 comes with 185 built-in stitches plus 130 sewing stitches, including 8 styles of auto-size buttonholes and 55 alphanumeric sewing stitches. Just select the stitch you want to use right on the LCD screen on the front of the machine. No confusing directions to choose your stitch; it’s pretty straightforward. A flip chart is attached right to the device for instant reference—select stitches with mode and shift keys.
- A wide adjustable table is great for holding larger fabric pieces needed while quilting.
- For perfect buttonholes, the HC1850 has 8 styles you can use with the one-step buttonhole maker.
- The advanced needle threading and drop-in bobbin feature make getting ready for sewing practically effortless.
- You can start or stop the machine using a foot treadle or the start/stop button.
- The HC1850 is designed for quilting in mind. These features include a detachable wide table, a spring action quilting foot, and free-motion quilting action.
- The variable needle position makes even more of your stitching under your control.
- 8 snap-on presser feet let you control sewing operations on a wide variety of fabrics and thicknesses.
- The HC1850’s dimensions are 19.2 x 12.5 x 15.2 inches, and it weighs 10.14 pounds.
- 1 Year Mechanical/Electro-Mechanical Parts & Labor, 2 Years Electronic Printed Circuit Boards, and 25 Years on the Chassis casting
But watch out for…
The HC1850 sewing machine is no longer being produced. New machines may be hard to locate but may be available from previous owners or shops with the machine in stock.
What others are saying
From the manufacturer:
“The versatile HC1850 Computerized Sewing Machine gives you the flexibility to do everything from basic monogramming, to creating quilts, adding decorative stitches to clothing and craft projects, sewing buttonholes and more.” Brother International Inc.
What the pros say:
“Anyone that has a passion for sewing – beginners and experts alike – will find that this is a complete sewing machine that can handle any project you throw at it.” Quiltersreview.com
“The Brother HC1850 sewing machine is one of my favorite sewing machines based on its versatility. There’s a good reason there are so many positive Brother HC1850 reviews out there!” Sewingmachinefun.com
“Brother HC1850 can be the machine of your dream consisting of mid-range if you’re looking for a high speed, rapid and expeditious machine for serious quilting, sewing and basic monogramming purposes.” Machinerycritic.com
Consumer feedback:
| Source | Score | # Ratings |
| Amazon | 4.7 stars out of 5 (as of 4/3/2021) | 3,068 |
| eBay | 5.0 stars out of 5 as of 4/3/2021) | 24 |
What to expect when you buy
The following accessories are included with the HC1850:
- 8 presser feet included (buttonhole, overcasting, monogramming, zipper, zigzag, blindstitch, button fitting, spring-action quilting)
- Darning Plate
- 3 Needles
- Ballpoint Needle
- Twin Needle
- 3 Bobbins
- Screwdriver
- Seam Ripper
- Cleaning Brush
- Eyelet Punch
- 3 Spool Caps
- Additional Spool Pin
Alternatives to the Brother HC1850
To fairly judge the usefulness of the HC1850, we looked at other entry-level computerized sewing machines with the same capabilities.
Our opinion
This Brother model offers much the exact utility of the HC1850 with an even lower price.
Our opinion
The XR9550PRW is the Project Runway model, named for the popular design television show. The machine comes with Brother at Your Side customer support.
Our opinion
The SINGER entry is another solid machine for sewers who want to embellish and quilt and sew straightforward projects.
In a nutshell…
The discontinued Brother HC1850 is a computerized entry model for exploring sewing, quilting, and embroidery. It’s an excellent low-priced machine for both beginners and intermediate-level sewers.