“Much easier to use than I expected and the service when i bought the machine was very good.”

Brother VQ2 Product Review and Demonstration
The Brother Innov-is VQ2 is one of Brother's top long arm sewing machines, built for sewers and quilters who need more workspace, more stitches and more speed. With an 11¼-inch-long arm providing 285 mm of space to the right of the needle, this machine handles king-size quilts, coats, curtains and other large-scale projects with ease.
At its core, the VQ2 runs at up to 1,050 stitches per minute, giving you the speed to work through larger projects quickly while the ICAPS (Continuous Automatic Pressure System) keeps presser foot pressure consistent regardless of fabric thickness. The result is uniform stitch quality whether you’re sewing through a single layer of chiffon or six layers of denim with no manual adjustments. A 7-point feed system with multi-directional capability moves fabric in multiple directions, giving you the control needed for detailed stitch work and decorative patterns.
The VQ2 comes loaded with 473 built-in stitches, giving you the right stitch for any job, including 14 one-step buttonhole styles, five lettering fonts (upper and lowercase) and extra-wide decorative stitches up to 40 mm for bold embellishments. The My Custom Stitch™ feature lets you draw and save your own stitch designs directly on the 7-inch colour LCD touchscreen. On-screen video tutorials and built-in help guides walk you through settings and techniques directly on the touchscreen, reducing the learning curve and keeping the machine’s full capability within reach.
For quilters, the included walking foot, free-motion open-toe quilting foot and ¼-inch quilting foot with guide give you the tools for piecing, stippling and free-motion work straight out of the box. The pivot function lifts the presser foot automatically while the needle stays down, keeping your fabric in position when you change direction. Combined with the knee lifter, these two controls give you professional quilting precision with both hands free to guide fabric through for larger projects. And with an independent bobbin winder, you can prepare a fresh bobbin without stopping mid-seam.
Key Features
What makes this machine worth it
Machine Size
Large long-arm sewing and quilting machine
Stitch Range
473 built-in stitches, including extra-wide decorative stitches up to 40 mm
Control Type
7-inch full-colour LCD touchscreen
Workspace
11¼ inches (285 mm) to the right of the needle - handles king-size quilts with ease
Buttonholes
14 one-step automatic buttonhole styles plus 5 lettering fonts
Skill Level
Designed for intermediate to professional sewers, quilters and dressmakers
Machine Weight
15.3kg with sturdy long-arm construction
Top Speed
1,050 stitches per minute with slide speed control
This machine is perfect for
- Ambitious quilters wanting a fully computerised long arm machine for large size quilts
- Sewers working with large and bulky projects like coats, jackets and curtains
Can sew but not ideal for
- Complete beginners may find the advanced features overwhelming
- Sewers with limited space - this machine suits a dedicated table and room to work
Not suitable for
- This is premium domestic machine designed for ambitious sewers but it's not manufacturered for commercial high volume production
Materials and Build Quality
The Brother VQ2 features an extra-long 11¼-inch arm that provides 285 mm of workspace to the right of the needle, giving you room to manage full-size quilts, wide curtains and bulky garments like coats. The machine weighs 15.3kg and sits firmly on your work surface during high-speed sewing, reducing movement and vibration that can affect stitch accuracy.
This extended workspace means you spend less time repositioning fabric and more time sewing. Kingsize quilts and large projects that would require constant folding and re-folding on a standard-arm machine lie flat through the VQ2, so your seams stay straight and your layers stay aligned.
Long Arm Construction and Frame
The Brother VQ2 features an extra-long 11¼-inch arm that provides 285 mm of workspace to the right of the needle, giving you room to manage full-size quilts, wide curtains and bulky garments like coats. The machine weighs 15.3kg and sits firmly on your work surface during high-speed sewing, reducing movement and vibration that can affect stitch accuracy.
This extended workspace means you spend less time repositioning fabric and more time sewing. Kingsize quilts and large projects that would require constant folding and re-folding on a standard-arm machine lie flat through the VQ2, so your seams stay straight and your layers stay aligned.
The ICAPS (Continuous Automatic Pressure System) is Brother’s automatic presser foot pressure technology. It monitors fabric thickness in real time and adjusts pressure to keep stitch length consistent, regardless of how many layers you’re sewing through. Move from a thin cotton seam to a bulky denim intersection and the VQ2 adjusts automatically, without manual dial changes.
For sewers working across multiple fabric weights in a single project, such as quilts with wadding, lined jackets or structured bags, ICAPS removes the manual pressure adjustment. Stitch length stays even, fabric feeds smoothly and your finished results look consistent from the first seam to the last.
ICAPS Automatic Pressure System
The ICAPS (Continuous Automatic Pressure System) is Brother’s automatic presser foot pressure technology. It monitors fabric thickness in real time and adjusts pressure to keep stitch length consistent, regardless of how many layers you’re sewing through. Move from a thin cotton seam to a bulky denim intersection and the VQ2 adjusts automatically, without manual dial changes.
For sewers working across multiple fabric weights in a single project, such as quilts with wadding, lined jackets or structured bags, ICAPS removes the manual pressure adjustment. Stitch length stays even, fabric feeds smoothly and your finished results look consistent from the first seam to the last.
The VQ2 uses an extended 7-point feed dog system paired with Brother’s Square Feed Drive System (SFDS) for smooth, precise fabric handling. The feed dogs grip fabric over a longer surface area than standard 4-point systems, which means fewer skipped stitches on layered or slippery materials. Multi-directional sewing lets you stitch straight in eight directions and zigzag in four, opening up decorative possibilities that go well beyond straight-line sewing.
Combined with the ICAPS system and electronic drop feed, this gives you consistent fabric control across quilting, garment construction and decorative work. Drop the feed dogs for free-motion quilting, raise them for structured piecing, and let the multi-directional feed handle wide decorative stitches up to 40 mm. The feed system adapts to your project, not the other way around.
7-Point Feed System and Multi-Directional Sewing
The VQ2 uses an extended 7-point feed dog system paired with Brother’s Square Feed Drive System (SFDS) for smooth, precise fabric handling. The feed dogs grip fabric over a longer surface area than standard 4-point systems, which means fewer skipped stitches on layered or slippery materials. Multi-directional sewing lets you stitch straight in eight directions and zigzag in four, opening up decorative possibilities that go well beyond straight-line sewing.
Combined with the ICAPS system and electronic drop feed, this gives you consistent fabric control across quilting, garment construction and decorative work. Drop the feed dogs for free-motion quilting, raise them for structured piecing, and let the multi-directional feed handle wide decorative stitches up to 40 mm. The feed system adapts to your project, not the other way around.
The Difference is in the Details
The Brother VQ2 sews at up to 1,050 stitches per minute, giving you the speed to move through large projects without sacrificing stitch quality. The independent bobbin winder lets you prepare a fresh bobbin while you continue sewing, so you never need to stop mid-project. Automatic thread cutting, a lockstitch key for tie-off stitches and an electronic slide speed control keep essential functions at your fingertips. Upper and lower thread sensors alert you before the thread runs out, preventing incomplete seams and saving unpicking time.
Productivity & Speed
The Brother VQ2 sews at up to 1,050 stitches per minute, giving you the speed to move through large projects without sacrificing stitch quality. The independent bobbin winder lets you prepare a fresh bobbin while you continue sewing, so you never need to stop mid-project. Automatic thread cutting, a lockstitch key for tie-off stitches and an electronic slide speed control keep essential functions at your fingertips. Upper and lower thread sensors alert you before the thread runs out, preventing incomplete seams and saving unpicking time.
The VQ2 is engineered to handle years of regular use. Brother backs this machine with a 3 Year Warranty (*Commercial use only 1 year warranty), reflecting confidence in its construction. The electronic components, including ICAPS and the touchscreen interface, are designed for repeated daily operation. Snap-on presser feet and a quick-set bobbin system reduce wear on mechanical parts during routine setup, and the F.A.S.T. bobbin winding system ensures clean, even winds every time.
Built for Longevity
The VQ2 is engineered to handle years of regular use. Brother backs this machine with a 3 Year Warranty (*Commercial use only 1 year warranty), reflecting confidence in its construction. The electronic components, including ICAPS and the touchscreen interface, are designed for repeated daily operation. Snap-on presser feet and a quick-set bobbin system reduce wear on mechanical parts during routine setup, and the F.A.S.T. bobbin winding system ensures clean, even winds every time.
The machine includes built-in video tutorials and on-screen help guides that recommend settings for specific tasks. The Artspira mobile app (iOS and Android) gives you access to manuals, educational videos and project inspiration. Our team at The Sewing Studio is here to provide expert advice and support whenever you need it, backed by Brother’s UK network of authorised service centres for warranty repairs and annual servicing.
Expert Support
The machine includes built-in video tutorials and on-screen help guides that recommend settings for specific tasks. The Artspira mobile app (iOS and Android) gives you access to manuals, educational videos and project inspiration. Our team at The Sewing Studio is here to provide expert advice and support whenever you need it, backed by Brother’s UK network of authorised service centres for warranty repairs and annual servicing.
The VQ2’s 7-inch LCD touchscreen includes built-in tutorials, stitch previews and help menus that reduce the learning curve and guide you through stitch selection and machine settings with confidence. The Artspira app connects to additional learning content and project ideas via your mobile device. Our YouTube channel and website also offer helpful tutorials and tips to help you get the most from your machine.
Learning Resources
The VQ2’s 7-inch LCD touchscreen includes built-in tutorials, stitch previews and help menus that reduce the learning curve and guide you through stitch selection and machine settings with confidence. The Artspira app connects to additional learning content and project ideas via your mobile device. Our YouTube channel and website also offer helpful tutorials and tips to help you get the most from your machine.
The large 7-inch colour LCD touchscreen provides clear stitch previews and responsive touch controls for selecting and editing stitches. Five adjustable LED lights illuminate the sewing area for clear visibility in any lighting condition, with brightness you can set to suit your workspace. Centralised controls and electronic touchpads put key functions within easy reach. The knee lifter and pivot function work together as professional quilting controls, letting you raise the presser foot and change direction without taking your hands off the fabric, which is particularly useful during quilting and when working with larger items.
Comfort & Ease of Use
The large 7-inch colour LCD touchscreen provides clear stitch previews and responsive touch controls for selecting and editing stitches. Five adjustable LED lights illuminate the sewing area for clear visibility in any lighting condition, with brightness you can set to suit your workspace. Centralised controls and electronic touchpads put key functions within easy reach. The knee lifter and pivot function work together as professional quilting controls, letting you raise the presser foot and change direction without taking your hands off the fabric, which is particularly useful during quilting and when working with larger items.
Brother VQ2: A Machine for Every Maker
And every project
An 11¼-Inch Long Arm for Large-Scale Projects
The extra-long arm gives you 285 mm of workspace to the right of the needle, which means kingsize quilts, wide curtains and structured coats move through the machine without bunching. You spend less time repositioning and more time sewing, with straighter seams and better results on oversized work.
ICAPS Technology for Consistent Fabric Handling
Brother’s ICAPS system automatically adjusts presser foot pressure as fabric thickness changes. Stitch length stays consistent across thin cottons, layered quilts and heavy denims, without you needing to stop and adjust settings manually. The result is even stitching throughout your project, from start to finish.
473 Stitches with Extra-Wide Decorative Options
Choose from 473 built-in stitches, including utility, quilting, decorative and 14 one-step buttonhole styles. Extra-wide decorative stitches reach up to 40 mm for bold embellishments using multi-directional feed and the My Custom Stitch feature lets you create, save and sew your own stitch patterns directly on the touchscreen.
Inside the Brother Innov-is VQ2
Built-In Computerised Stitch System
The VQ2 comes pre-loaded with 473 built-in stitches including utility, decorative, quilting and lettering stitches across five fonts. Browse and preview every stitch on the 7-inch colour LCD touchscreen, with the ability to adjust width, length, density and mirror imaging before you sew. Save your favourite combinations for instant recall on future projects.
My Custom Stitch Design
The My Custom Stitch feature lets you create, save and sew your own stitch patterns directly on the LCD touchscreen. Design original decorative stitches, recall them whenever you need them and combine them with built-in patterns. Import and export stitch files via USB for sharing designs between machines or backing up your library.
Pivot Function for Fabric Control
The pivot function automatically lifts the presser foot while the needle stays in the down position, keeping your fabric pinned in place as you change direction. This is particularly useful for quilting, appliqué work, precision hems and cuffs and any sewing that requires precise turns and corners. One smooth motion and your fabric pivots cleanly without shifting.
Independent Bobbin Winder with F.A.S.T. System
Wind a new bobbin while you continue to sew, without interrupting your project. The F.A.S.T. (Fast And Simple Tension) bobbin winding system delivers clean, even winds and fingertip speed control lets you adjust winding speed to match different thread types. The quick-set bobbin drops straight in and is ready to sew immediately.
Automatic Electronic Needle Threading
Set your thread, press the lever and the VQ2 threads the needle for you. The automatic electronic needle threader feeds thread through the needle eye with consistent accuracy, saving time on every colour change and removing the frustration of manual threading.
Product Specifications
Key Features
- 11 1/4 Inch (285mm) long arm sewing and quilting machine
- 473 built-in stitches
- 14 styles of automatic 1 step buttonhole and 5 lettering styles upper and lowercase
- Large colour LCD touch screen
- Up to 1,050 stitches per minute
- Extra wide stitches up to 40mm
- My Custom Stitch
- ICAPS - Continuous Automatic Pressure System
- Multi-directional feed
- Independent bobbin winder
- Pivot function
Accessories In The Box
- 1 x Adapter
- 1 x Screw
- 1 x Needle set
- 1 x Twin needle (centre)
- 10 x Bobbin (one on machine)
- 1 x Seam ripper
- 1 x Cleaning brush
- 1 x Eyelet brush
- 1 x Screwdriver small
- 1 x Screwdriver large
- 1 x Disc shaped screwdriver
- 1 x Vertical spool pin
- 1 x Spool cap small
- 2 x Spool cap medium (one on machine)
- 1 x Spool cap large
- 1 x Thread Spool insert (mini king thread spool)
- 1 x mini king thread spool
- 10 x Bobbin clip
- 1 x Spool felt (on machine)
- 1 x Stylus pen
- 1 x Knee Lifter
- 1 x USB cable
- 1 x Cord guide cover with single hole
- 1 x Bobbin cover with mark
- 1 x Bobbin cover (on machine)
- 1 x Foot controller
- 1 x Grid sheet set
- 1 x Soft cover
- 1 x Accessory bag
Feet In The Box
- 1 x Zigzag foot J (on machine)
- 1 x Monogramming foot N
- 1 x Overcasting foot G
- 1 x Zipper foot I
- 1 x Buttonhole foot A
- 1 x Blind stitch foot R
- 1 x Button fitting foot M
- 1 x Free motion open toe quilting foot O
- 1 x 1/4 quilting foot with guide
- 1 x Walking foot
Manufacturer Specifications
- Machine Size: Large
- Product Type: Quilting, Sewing
- Skill Level: Expert
- Accessory Box: Yes
- Bobbin Type: Horizontal
- Case: Stable Soft Cover
- Machine Type: Electronic
- Insertion of Bobbin: Quick Set Bobbin
- Lighting: 5 LED's
- Number Of Needles: 1
- Display Size: 7"
- Stitch Selection: LCD Touch Screen
- Type of Screen: LCD-Touchscreen Colour
- Adjustable presser foot: Electronic
- Automatic reverse / reinforcement stitch: Yes
- Bobbin Work: Optional
- Built-In Lettering Styles: 5
- Buttonholes: 14
- Circular Sewing: Optional
- Combine stitches: Yes
- Continuous Automatic Pressure System (ICAPS): Yes
- Direct Dual Feed: Optional
- Drop feed setting: Electronic
- Electronic slide speed control: yes
- Extension Wide Table: Optional
- Free arm sewing: Yes
- Free Motion Embroidery Kit: Yes
- Knee lift: Yes
- Lock stitch button: Yes
- Max. Sewing Speed (Stitches per minute): 1050
- Mechanical Dual Feed: Optional
- Mirror imaging: Yes
- Multi-Directional Sewing: Yes (up to 8 sideways)
- Multi-function foot controller: Optional
- My Custom Stitch: Yes
- Needle Stop Position Control Up/Down: Yes
- Number of sewing stitches *incl. buttonholes: 473
- Pivot function: Yes
- Presser Foot Levelling Button: Yes
- Repeated single sewing: Yes
- SFDS (Square Feed Drive System): Yes
- Snap on Presser Feet System: Yes
- Speed control customised for zigzag width: Yes
- Stippling Function: Free Hand Quilting
- Workspace (cm): 28.5
- 7 Point Feed Dog: Yes
- Stitch Length (mm): 5
- Stitch Width (mm): 7
- Warranty: Brother 3 year Warranty
- Commercial use only 1 year warranty
- Lower Thread Sensor: Yes
- Upper Thread Sensor: Yes
- Adjustable Thread Tension: Manual
- Automatic Thread Cutter: Yes
- Bobbin Winder: F.A.S.T
- Needle Threading System: Automatic
- Machine Dimension (mm): 571x284x332
- Weight (kg): 15.3
Machine Dimensions & Weight
- Machine dimensions (W x D x H): 571 mm x 284 mm x 332 mm
- Machine weight: 15.3kg
- Workspace: 11¼" (285 mm) to the right of the needle
- Free arm sewing: Yes
Stitch Options & Controls
- Built-in stitches: 473 (including buttonholes)
- Buttonholes: 14 one-step automatic styles
- Built-in lettering styles: 5 (upper and lowercase)
- Maximum sewing speed: 1,050 stitches per minute
- Maximum stitch width: 7 mm (up to 40 mm with multi-directional feed)
- Maximum stitch length: 5 mm
- Extra-wide decorative stitches: Up to 40 mm
- LCD display: 7-inch full-colour touchscreen
- Languages: 13
- My Custom Stitch: Yes
- Mirror imaging: Yes
- Combine stitches: Yes
- Stitch memory: Yes
Bobbin & Needle System
- Bobbin type: Horizontal full rotary
- Bobbin insertion: Quick-set bobbin (top loading)
- Bobbin winder: F.A.S.T. (independent)
- Number of needles: 1
- Snap-on presser feet system: Yes
Connectivity
- USB ports: 2
- Artspira app support (iOS and Android)
Warranty & Support
Brother 3 Year Warranty (*Commercial use only 1 year warranty). Our support team is here if you need help or servicing.
Product Downloads
Ratings & Reviews
Frequently Asked Questions
Let us help with the answers.
What Is ICAPS and how does it help my sewing?
ICAPS stands for Continuous Automatic Pressure System. It automatically adjusts the presser foot pressure based on how thick or thin your fabric is, keeping stitch length consistent without manual adjustments. This is particularly helpful when sewing projects that involve multiple fabric weights, such as quilts with wadding or lined garments.
Is the Brother VQ2 good for quilting?
Yes. The VQ2 is designed with quilters in mind. The 11¼-inch long arm handles king-size quilts with ease, the included walking foot and ¼-inch quilting foot handle piecing and quilting tasks and the free-motion open-toe quilting foot supports stippling and free-motion work. The pivot function and knee lifter are also valuable for repositioning fabric during quilting without lifting your hands.
Can the VQ2 handle heavy fabrics like denim and upholstery?
Yes. The ICAPS system adjusts presser foot pressure automatically for thicker materials and the 7-point feed system provides grip across multiple layers. Sewers report clean results on heavy denim, canvas and similar weights. For heavier upholstery work, the optional direct dual feed attachment provides additional fabric control.
What maintenance does the Brother VQ2 require?
Regular cleaning of the bobbin area and feed dogs, following your manual’s instructions, will help keep your machine in good condition. Do not oil this machine at home. For annual servicing and any repairs, contact us to arrange servicing with a professional sewing machine engineer. Computerised machines should only be serviced by a professional sewing machine engineer.
Is the wide extension table included?
The WT10 Wide Table is not included as standard in the box. It is available as an optional accessory - see our current promotions page for any active bundle offers. It attaches to the left and rear of the machine, providing additional workspace for larger quilting and sewing projects, with a built-in measurement guide and storage area for the knee lifter.
Can I design my own stitches on this machine?
Yes. The My Custom Stitch feature lets you draw original stitch patterns directly on the 7-inch LCD touchscreen, save them to memory and recall them at any time. You can also import and export stitch designs via USB.
Can I buy on Finance?
Yes. We offer finance options (subject to status). Use the finance calculator on this page or contact us for tailored plans.
Our standard width fabric can be cut as a Fat Quarter, measuring 50cm x 1/2 the width of the bolt. Above is an example of how your fabric will be received, depending on the quantity ordered.
We also offer a sample service, where you can order 1 single fat quarter of any standard width fabric, to have at home and compare colours. When you are finished, you can send them back to us for a refund (feel free to contact us for more information on this service).
Our fabric can be cut as a Long Quarter, measuring a minimum of 25cm x width of bolt. We will supply the fabric as a continuous length (eg; if you bought 1.25m it will be sent as one piece of fabric).