Brother Hits The 'Runway'

Dec 1, 2008

Brother Intl. Corp. now offers its "Project Runway" sewing machines: the Innov-is 40 and Innov-is 80. Both feature a built-in automatic needle threading system, free-motion stitching and LCD screen.

Brother Intl. Corp., Bridgewater, N.J., is helping frugal fashionistas give their wardrobes a facelift with its "Project Runway" series of sewing machines. As an official licensee of Bravo's fashion television show, Brother recently released its "Project Runway" machine series to inspire those who want to refurbish their old apparel or craft new, original clothing — all while combating the turbulent economy.

"Brother has aligned itself with this fashion-oriented, hip brand to appeal to a new generation of designers who are inspired to create and design like [the contestants] on 'Project Runway,'" says Dean F. Shulman, senior vice president of Brother Intl. and head of the company's Home Appliance division. "The limited-edition Innov-ís 40 and Innov-ís 80 computerized sewing machines are perfect to carry the 'Project Runway' mark. They are affordable, easy to use and [packed with features] for both the beginning designer and advanced [decorator]."

Austin Scarlett, a designer from the show's first season, thinks the machines are ideal for crafting gifts for the holidays. "[The machines] are a wonderful gift for any aspiring fashion designer, any home decorator or anyone with a creative streak," he says. "The machines are perfect for a beginner yet specialized enough for the most ambitious design project."

Costing about $300, the "Project Runway" Innov-ís 40 sewing machine is branded with the "Project Runway" logo and features 40 built-in stitches — including five one-step auto-size buttonhole styles, a built-in automatic needle threading system, free-motion stitching and LCD screen. The Innov-ís 80 features the same, but with stitch selection via keypad, 80 built-in stitches — including 10 one-step auto-size buttonhole styles, and more. — S.M.

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