The Singer Futura CE-250 and the power stitcher’s Singer Futura XL-550 both have grabbed creative stitchers’ attention in 2016, so I decided to take a look myself. Before I begin, let me remind you that if you don’t recognize some of the computerized sewing and embroidery Machine terms, be sure to check out my other articles. I always try to keep you informed on the latest trends and terms.

Touch Screen Creativity

The Singer Futura CE-250 Computerized Sewing and Embroidery Machine does just what the name implies, it allows you to sew and embroidery. This means that with this one machine, you can create your project from start to finish. Select your fabric, decide what you want to make and then use the Futura CE-250’s 100 different stitches to make it your way. Then, choose your favorite design and finish your project with the perfect embroidered touch using the CE-250’s embroidery features. You could monogram a set of dishtowels or pillowcases for a special wedding gift, or create a one-of-a-kind baby blanket. The possibilities are endless.

Simplifying the Complex

If you are like me, the worst part about sewing is the set-up. I really don’t enjoy threading needles or messing with tensions or bobbins. But Singer has been selling sewing machines forever, so they know how I feel. The Futura series of machines offer automatic needle threading and tension adjustment plus a top loading jam-proof bobbin system. Jam-proof! Speaking of jam-proof, this machine detects the thickness of your fabric and adjusts the needle power to match. Now that’s a nice touch. And speaking of touch, the stitch selection is touch screen based and automatically selects the appropriate stitch length and width when you choose your stitch. If you don’t like the machine’s selection, you can change the stitch to what you want. The Futura 250-CE can create special stretch stitches for knits, this is quite a step up from the days of having to rely on zig zag stitching when sewing on knit fabric. There are also custom quilting stiches that appear hand sewn and several heirloom stitch options too. Now those stitches would be perfect for a baby blanket or a christening gown. You will have so many options to customize your work, you won’t want to stop creating. You had better stock up on fabric and thread.

Better Needle Control

Here’s a neat feature of the Futura 250-CE, you can program the needle to stay in the down position when you stop sewing.  Now, I know usually it is a good idea to have your needle up when you finish sewing- otherwise, you end up breaking your needle or ripping your project when you forget the needle is down and pull the fabric out.  But, sometimes you don’t want the needle up. If you are stitching on an applique or need to turn your fabric while quilting, things will work out much better if you can leave the needle in place to resume sewing. The needle position can also be adjusted for sewing on notions such as cording or zippers. I remember taking a sewing class years ago when I was first getting started. The machines then weren’t computerized. I did fine in the class until the dreaded button-hole stage. I don’t think I ever finished that shirt! But now look what Singer gives us, six different buttonholes, all with just a one-step process. If I had this machine back then, I would have received an “A” on my project. I’m beginning to see why the Futura CE-250 Computerized Sewing and Embroidery Machine Reviews have been so positive, and I’ve not even looked at the embroidery features yet.

Computer Direct Design

The entire series of Futura computerized sewing and embroidery machines include a sophisticated computerized embroidery system that may take you some time to learn how to use. But I think it will be worth it for you in the end. You will need a separate computer with a Windows 2000 or higher operating system to take advantage of the Futura CE-250’s design transfer capabilities. But, because the machine can speak directly with your PC using a USB Cable, you don’t have to mess with converting files or using a Memory Card or Write/Read Box. This makes adding new designs or even creating your own design much more convenient. Don’t worry, even though there is a lot to learn, Singer has provided you with a full tutorial to help you and you can contact online support for advice as well. This machine reads all the popular embroidery formats, so you don’t have to worry about the file type when you are shopping for designs.

Incredible Creative Design Options

I mentioned making your own designs which I think is something that we all want to do eventually. The built-in designs are wonderful and you can always purchase more, but there’s just something rewarding about making your project truly unique. Singer has given you the tools to do just that with the AutoPunch Software included with your Futura embroidery machine. You choose the artwork, you choose the stitch setting and this software creates your digitized design. Just imagine, you could scan in your son’s drawing and then embroider it on a shirt. You could even put your son’s picture on your shirt! You could use the embroidery machine’s built-in lettering program to put your grandchildren’s names on a sweatshirt or print a favorite slogan down the side of your teen’s blue jeans. I used to use permanent marker on my jeans, embroidery would have been so cool.

Handy Design Selection Features

Whether you use your own design or a built-in one, the Singer Futura CE-250 lets you see what your final project will look like before you hit the embroider button. You will be able to view a realistic 3-D image of your selected design on your computer or print out the image for use as a template. The software allows you to change and match colors in your design easily as well. Then, you get to choose how and in what order each design color set is sent to your embroidery machine.

Helping You Get Your Embroidery Just Right

Once you are ready to transmit your design, the CE-250 allows you to create an outline of the design on your fabric to assist you in positioning everything. You can even rotate the design by 1-degree increments to position it just the way you want it. Once a color block has been sent, the control panels tracks them so you can select the color to work first. If you need to backstitch in your design, just select the Reverse Stitch button.

Final Verdict

Even the creative stitchers who liked this machine warn that there is a learning curve. Don’t plan to take the Futura CE-250 out of the box and start embroidering. It seems that some of the very things that make the Futura series special, also take some time to learn how to use. You should also plan to use a high-quality thread with the Futura to get the best and best-looking results. I am not as young as I used to be, so the idea of being able to look at my nice big computer screen for viewing patterns instead of a little LCD screen is very attractive to me. And of course, I’ve already mentioned how I feel about threading needles. The Futura CE-250 offers two hoop size, up to 6.5 inches long. With the Futura XL-550, you can create single hoop designs that are up to 18.5 inches long or multi-hoop designs that are even larger. The Futura series of computerized sewing and embroidery machines are made to maximize your creativity. From the built-in stitches to the ability to digitize your own images, this is a creative stitcher’s machine. If you invest the time, you will see the benefits.