Laura Ashley CX205LA is not as popular as other Brother machines, as it is a limited edition model. But it has some quality to back it.

Laura Ashley CX205LA Main Features

• 150 built-in stitches
• Automatic needle threader
• Programmable needle up/down
• Top drop-in bobbin

Brother Laura Ashley CX205LA Review

Sewing Machine Reviews Recommendation Level : HIGH

Laura Ashley models are limited edition offerings from Brother. That is the very reason why they are not as popular as other Brother machines. Even though these are high quality machines, people tend to stay away from them, as they are limited edition models. The only model that made a big impact is the Laura Ashley CX155LA. It was well received and actually it is one of the best selling sewing machines in the price segment. Now Brother has come up with a slightly more feature packed Laura Ashley CX205LA. This machine is not a whole lot different from the previous machine we talked about. Let us see whether CX205LA can match the high standards set by CX155LA.

Laura Ashley CX205LA comes with 150 built-in stitches, including 8 styles of one-step buttonholes, plus 55 alphanumeric stitches for basic monogramming (1 font). The sewing stitch chart is provided on the front of the machine. The alphanumeric stitch chart is under the top lid. The machine has a decent sized backlit LCD screen which is easy to view. The stitch settings can be read effortlessly. Stitches are selected by pushing buttons provided next to the screen. The maximum stitch width is 7mm and stitch length is 5mm. The machine will also display the recommended presser foot to use for each stitch type.

Laura Ashley CX205LA comes with an easy to load top drop-in bobbin. The clear bobbin cover lets you track the bobbin thread supply. The automatic needle threader threads the needle with the touch of a lever. The speed control slider gives you full control over the sewing speed while sewing without the foot pedal. The programmable needle up/down button which is a must have for quilting, literally works like an extra hand. The reverse sewing button is placed next to the programmable needle up/down button. Snap-on presser feet makes it easy to swap feet. The horizontal spool pin helps a lot in even feeding.

A manual thread cutter is provided to eliminate the use of scissors. An LED bulb illuminates the work space (specifically the needle area). The included extra wide table is handy for large projects. There is an independent bobbin winding motor as well. The main motor inside CX205LA can deliver 850 stitches/min, which keeps it on par with the competition. You can do free-motion projects by using the drop feed feature. The machine is pretty lightweight, weighing just 11 pounds. The machine comes with a 25 year limited warranty cover as well. As a bonus, you will be getting 11 accessory feet with CX205LA. You can account the cost of accessories in the final price.

Usability

Laura Ashley CX205LA is a user-friendly sewing machine. It is a simple machine to use. The user manual has clear instructions. The stitch quality is very good, especially over multiple layers of denim. There is a nice variety of stitches to choose from. The monograms look quite good (something that really impressed me).

Limitations

The work light LED could have been brighter. Only the needle area is illuminated. Multiple LEDs would have done a better job.

Pros

• User friendly
• Lightweight
• Variety of stitches
• Good stitch quality
• Bonus accessories

Cons

• Dim work light

Is It Worth Buying?

Laura Ashley CX205LA lives up to the expectations. The standards were always kept high by the popular CX155LA and CX205LA is not that far behind.