Brother XR3774 Review: Is This the Best Value Quilting Machine?

Finding a sewing machine that balances affordability with functionality is often a frustrating exercise. Usually, “budget-friendly” translates to “frustratingly limited,” especially if you have an interest in quilting. Enter the Brother XR3774.

Marketed as a beginner-friendly mechanical machine that punches above its weight class, the XR3774 claims to handle everything from basic garment repairs to quilt piecing. It sits in a crowded market, competing directly with siblings like the Brother GX37 and entry-level computerized models.

But does it actually hold up? Can a lightweight plastic machine really handle a quilt sandwich? In this comprehensive review, we strip away the marketing hype. We’ll analyze the stitch quality, the “quilting” features, and the long-term reliability to help you decide if this machine deserves a spot on your sewing table.

Product Overview: Specs at a Glance

The Brother XR3774 is a mechanical sewing machine. Unlike computerized models that use microchips and LCD screens to regulate stitch width and length, this machine uses physical gears and dials. For many, this is a huge plus—there are fewer electronic components to fail over time. If you aren’t sure which type you need, check our guide on what is a mechanical sewing machine.

The standout feature here is undoubtedly the inclusion of the wide table. Usually, extensions like this are reserved for machines costing twice as much or sold as expensive add-ons. Brother including it in the box signals clearly that they want this to be your first quilting machine.

Deep Dive Review: Performance & Features

1. Build Quality and Design

Let’s be honest: the XR3774 is primarily plastic on the outside. At just over 12 pounds, it is incredibly lightweight. This is fantastic if you plan to carry it to sewing classes or store it in a closet between projects. However, mass requires stability. Does it bounce around?

At low to medium speeds, the machine is stable. At maximum speed (800 SPM), you will notice some vibration, especially on a lightweight foldable table. It features a metal interior frame which provides necessary rigidity, but it lacks the heavy planted feel of a Singer Heavy Duty.

2. Stitch Quality and Variety

With 37 built-in stitches, the XR3774 covers all the essentials and then some. You get:

• Utility Stitches: Straight, Zigzag, Blind Hem.
• Stretch Stitches: Essential for sewing knits and jersey fabrics.
• Decorative Stitches: Scallops, vines, and satin stitches.

In testing, the stitch quality on standard cotton is excellent—even and balanced out of the box. Tension issues are rare as long as you thread it correctly with the presser foot up. If you do encounter skipped stitches, it’s often a needle issue. Make sure you understand common needle problems before blaming the machine.

3. Quilting Features

This is where the XR3774 shines for its price bracket. The wide table expands your workspace significantly, allowing you to manage bulky fabric rolls without them dragging the needle off course. It also supports free-motion quilting.

To free-motion quilt, you attach the included darning plate (to cover the feed dogs) and the quilting foot. While it’s not as seamless as dropping the feed dogs with a switch, it works effectively. Just ensure you have a good cutting mat and proper batting to make the process smoother.

4. Ease of Use

Brother dominates the beginner market because their machines are intuitive. The XR3774 features:

• Automatic Needle Threader: A lever on the side pushes thread through the eye. A lifesaver for tired eyes.
• Drop-in Bobbin: The jam-resistant top bobbin has a clear cover, so you never run out of thread unexpectedly.
• 1-Step Buttonhole: You place your button in the back of the foot, and the machine sews a perfectly sized hole automatically. No complex 4-step measuring required.

If you are a total novice, we recommend reading our beginner setup guide to get the most out of these features.

Comparison: XR3774 vs. The Competition

The XR3774 doesn’t exist in a vacuum. Let’s see how it compares to its closest rivals.

Vs. Brother GX37: These machines are almost mechanically identical. The main difference is the accessory package. If you want to quilt, the XR3774 is the better buy because of the included wide table. If you only sew clothes, the GX37 might be cheaper.

Vs. Brother CS7000X: The CS7000X is computerized. It offers speed control sliders and needle up/down buttons—features the mechanical XR3774 lacks. If you can stretch your budget, the CS7000X is easier to use, but the XR3774 is simpler to maintain.

What Can (and Can’t) It Sew?

Yes, it can sew:

• Cotton quilting fabrics (multiple layers).
• Fleece and Flannel.
• Polyester and Rayon.
• Basic denim (hemming jeans).

No, it struggles with:

• Thick leather or upholstery vinyl.
• Multiple layers of heavy canvas (like sailcloth).
• Thick rug repairs.

For heavy materials, always use the hand wheel to start seams and ensure you are using quality thread to prevent snapping.

The intuitive dial makes stitch selection foolproof—no menus to navigate.

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Pros and Cons

Essential Accessories to Pair

To get the best experience out of the XR3774, consider adding these tools to your kit:

• Walking Foot: (Check if included in your specific bundle, otherwise highly recommended for quilting).
• Quality Scissors: A dull scissor ruins fabric. Check out our top sewing scissors.
• Rotary Cutter: Essential for precise quilt piecing. Learn how to use one safely here.
• Sewing Clips: Much better than pins for holding thick quilt bindings. See the best clips here.

Final Verdict: Should You Buy the Brother XR3774?

After reviewing the specs, performance, and user feedback, the Brother XR3774 stands out as a champion of value.

Buy it if:

• You are a beginner who wants to try quilting without spending $500+.
• You need a lightweight, portable machine for classes or small spaces.
• You prefer the reliability and simplicity of mechanical dials over screens.

Skip it if:

• You need a heavy-duty machine for sewing leather or thick canvas daily.
• You want advanced features like automatic thread cutting or speed sliders (look at the Brother HC1850 instead).

For the price, the XR3774 offers a complete package that allows creativity to flourish without fighting the machine. It is a solid, reliable choice for 2025.