Brother CE1150 Computerized Sewing Machine Review: Is It Worth It?

Updated November 2026

The brother ce1150 computerized sewing machine suits beginners and home sewers who want a dependable, feature-rich machine without stepping into high-end territory. It offers 110 built-in stitches, eight one-step buttonholes, a 410 stitches-per-minute speed control and an LCD display, which covers most everyday projects from hemming and mending to garment construction and simple décor sewing. Buyers who plan to do heavy quilting, frequent thick-denim work or machine embroidery will likely outgrow it quickly and should look at a larger model instead. Note that this listing is for a renewed unit, so check the seller’s condition grade and warranty terms before ordering. Shoppers who want a brand-new machine with a full manufacturer warranty may prefer a new-condition listing.

Product Overview

The Brother CE1150 is a computerized sewing machine aimed at people who are moving past basic mechanical machines and want automatic stitch selection without a large investment in features they will never use. Its core appeal is the combination of a broad built-in stitch library, a simple one-step buttonhole system and an LCD screen that shows the selected stitch and settings at a glance. Because this listing is for a renewed unit, the machine is presented as a previously owned or refurbished product rather than a fresh box. That distinction matters for warranty coverage and cosmetic condition, so it should be read carefully before purchase.

For new sewists, the computerized design reduces the number of manual dial changes needed to switch between a straight stitch, zigzag and decorative patterns. Experienced sewers often appreciate the same convenience for routine work, since they can focus on fabric handling rather than resetting tension and width every time. If you are still learning how a machine responds to different fabric weights, our guide on Brother CE-4000 Computerized Sewing Machine: Setup, Stitches and Tips walks through many of the same basics on a closely related Brother model.

Key Features & Specifications

The figures below reflect what the product name and well-known Brother CE-series features state. Confirm any additional details against the current listing before buying.

Feature	Details
Model	Brother CE1150 Computerized Sewing Machine (renewed)
Built-in stitches	110
Buttonholes	8 one-step buttonholes
Maximum speed	410 stitches per minute, adjustable with a speed control
Display	LCD screen
Workspace lighting	LED workspace light
Condition	Renewed (refurbished)

The speed control is useful for beginners who want to slow down on tricky curves or thick seams. Since the stitch count is 110, the machine covers the range most home sewers use, though it does not match the larger stitch libraries on premium computerized models.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 110 built-in stitches cover utility, stretch and decorative needs for everyday projects.
• One-step buttonholes reduce the time and skill needed to produce consistent buttonholes.
• The LCD display makes stitch selection and settings easier to read than a purely mechanical dial.
• The LED workspace light helps with close work such as topstitching and detail sewing.
• The adjustable speed control lets beginners work at a comfortable pace.

Cons

• As a renewed unit, condition and warranty coverage may differ from a new machine.
• The stitch library is smaller than that of higher-end Brother models.
• It is not designed for heavy-duty work such as thick canvas or multiple denim layers.
• Machine embroidery and large-format quilting are outside its intended scope.

Performance Analysis

Based on the listed specifications and the general patterns owners tend to describe for Brother’s computerized entry-level machines, the CE1150 performs best on lightweight to medium fabrics such as cotton, quilting weight cotton, jersey knits and lightweight wovens. Owners often report that stitch quality is clean and consistent when the machine is paired with the correct needle and thread for the fabric. Using a universal needle for general work and a ballpoint or stretch needle for knits is a common recommendation, and it makes a noticeable difference in skipped stitches.

The 410 stitches-per-minute top speed is moderate by computerized standards, which suits controlled sewing more than production work. Many users find it comfortable for garments and home décor. For fabrics that require extra patience, such as velvet or slippery satins, a slower speed setting and a walking foot or an appropriate presser foot will help. The one-step buttonhole feature is generally described as reliable once the buttonhole foot is attached correctly and the fabric is marked and aligned properly.

The machine’s limits show up with thick materials. Sewing through several layers of denim or heavy upholstery fabric tends to strain an entry-level machine, and owners commonly recommend a heavier-duty model for those tasks. The LED light and LCD display are practical strengths, though they do not change the basic capacity of the machine. If you plan to add embroidery later, a dedicated embroidery model such as Brother SE400 Computerized Sewing & Embroidery Machine: A Step-by-Step Guide is a better fit.

Who Should Buy This Product?

The Brother CE1150 suits several types of buyers. Beginners who want guided, automatic stitch selection without a steep learning curve will find it approachable. Home sewers who mainly make clothing, hem pants, repair garments and sew light home décor will get good use from the stitch range and buttonhole feature. Budget-conscious shoppers who want a computerized machine rather than a mechanical one will also find it a sensible option, provided the renewed condition works for them.

You should skip this machine if your main projects involve heavy denim, canvas bags, leather or thick upholstery. It is also not the right choice for serious quilters who need a large sewing table and extended quilting space, or for embroidery enthusiasts who want a machine that stitches designs. For those needs, look at Brother XR9550 Computerized Sewing Machine Review: Features and Performance or Brother CS7000X Computerized Sewing and Quilting Machine Review (2026).

Buying Guide

Before buying any computerized machine, match it to the fabrics and projects you sew most often. Look at stitch count, buttonhole style, speed range and whether the machine includes the presser feet you will need. For the CE1150 specifically, confirm the seller’s condition grade, return policy and warranty, because renewed listings can vary.

Consider these checks before ordering:

1. Confirm that the machine is listed as renewed and read the condition description closely.
2. Check the included accessories, especially the buttonhole foot and needles.
3. Decide whether you need a larger work area or extra stitch styles for future projects.
4. Compare alternatives that fit your skill level and budget.

If you want a computerized model with a larger stitch library and LCD display, the Brother CS5055 is a common comparison point, and its listing is worth reviewing:

View on Amazon. For a larger machine with 165 built-in stitches and a wide table, the Brother XR9550 is a frequent step-up choice:

View on Amazon. A third option for sewists who want to compare quilting-focused designs is covered in Brother Sq9285 Computerized Sewing and Quilting Machine: A Practical Guide (2026), which explains how that model differs in use.

FAQ

Is the brother ce1150 computerized sewing machine good for beginners?

Yes, for most beginners it is a practical choice. Its computerized stitch selection, LCD display and one-step buttonholes reduce the number of manual adjustments needed, which helps new sewists focus on technique. Practice on scrap fabric first to get comfortable with tension and speed.

Does the brother ce1150 computerized sewing machine include a warranty?

Coverage depends on the seller and the condition of the renewed unit. Check the listing for warranty details before purchase, since renewed machines are often covered differently from new ones.

How many stitches does the brother ce1150 computerized sewing machine have?

The machine offers 110 built-in stitches, which cover straight, zigzag, stretch and decorative options for typical home sewing projects.

Can the CE1150 sew through thick denim?

It can handle a single layer of medium denim with the correct needle, but owners commonly report strain when sewing multiple thick layers. A heavy-duty machine is a better choice for regular denim or canvas work.

What needle should I use with this machine?

A universal needle works for most woven cottons and blends. Use a stretch or ballpoint needle for knits and a sharp needle for quilting cotton. Replace needles regularly to avoid skipped stitches.

Is the one-step buttonhole feature easy to use?

Owners generally describe it as easy once the buttonhole foot is attached and the fabric is marked. Test on scrap fabric to confirm the length and spacing before sewing your garment.

Does the machine work for quilting?

It can handle basic piecing and small quilting projects, but it is not designed for large quilts. Quilters working on bed-size projects should consider a machine with a wider table and more quilting features.

Should I buy a renewed or new CE1150?

A renewed unit can be a sensible choice if the condition grade and return policy suit you. If you need a full factory warranty and pristine condition, a new machine may be the safer option. Consult the listing and the seller’s policies before deciding.

Final Verdict

The Brother CE1150 earns its place as a capable entry-level computerized machine for beginners and everyday home sewing. Its 110 stitches, one-step buttonholes, LCD display and LED light cover the core needs of garment sewing, hemming and light décor. Its limits are clear: it is not built for heavy denim, thick upholstery, large quilts or embroidery, and the renewed condition means you should review the seller’s terms carefully. If your projects fall within its strengths, it is a practical, sensible purchase.

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Related reading

• Brother Xr3340 Computerized Sewing and Quilting Machine: A Practical Guide (2026)
• Brother XR-7700 Computerized Sewing Machine: A Setup and Usage Guide

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