embroidery machines
If you love embroidery but don’t have the time, skill or inclination to do it by hand, an embroidery machine will be your new best friend. Just set it up, choose your design, and the machine will do all the hard work for you.
Our top pick is the Brother PE770 embroidery machine. It’s a great choice without getting into professional territory with its high price tag. We like the decent sized embroidery field and the range of designs available.
What to know before buying an embroidery machine
Single needle or multiple needle
The vast majority of home embroidery machines are single-needle models, which create designs using a single sewing needle. These machines are compact and reasonably priced, but that means you have to change the yarn multiple times if you want multi-colored designs. Multi-needle embroidery machines can hold threads of several different colors, so they can use four to eight shades in their designs without you having to change thread colors. Sure, it’s convenient, but multi-needle models tend to cost several thousand dollars.
Dimensions of the embroidery area
Embroidery machines can only embroider designs in a limited area – this is sometimes called the embroidery field. The dimensions of this area can vary from approximately 3 x 3 inches to over 8 x 10 inches. Consider the size of the designs you want to embroider before purchasing.
Number of models
This is the amount of built-in embroidery designs that come with your machine. You can find machines that store between 25 and 200 designs, plus between four and 15 fonts. The good news is that you can download additional fonts and designs and add them to your machine wirelessly or using a USB drive or cable.
Stitches per minute
The more stitches your embroidery machine can complete per minute, the faster the design will be completed. Slower machines can hit around 300-600 spm, while high-speed home machines manage 650-1,000 spm.
What to Look for in a Quality Embroidery Machine
hoops
You need embroidery hoops to hold the area of fabric you are going to embroider taut. Some machines include several hoops of different sizes. Otherwise, you will have to buy them separately.
Display screen
Embroidery machines come with built-in LCD displays, so you can view the design before you start. Some machines also let you make simple on-screen edits, such as adjusting color choices, flipping or rotating designs, and editing text. Large color screens are preferable to small black and white screens.
How much you can expect to spend on an embroidery machine
You can find basic home embroidery machines ranging from $200 to $300, but on the other end of the spectrum, professional multi-thread models can cost upwards of $4,000. A high-end model home will cost between $800 and $1,500.
Sewing machine FAQs
Will I need a computer to get the most out of my embroidery machine?
A. Your embroidery machine will have built-in designs, but with a computer you can download more and transfer them to your machine to use, giving you a lot more choice. Additionally, you can purchase computer software that allows you to design your own embroidery designs if you want to be even more creative.
Can I sew with an embroidery machine?
A. Some models are dedicated embroidery machines, but it’s common to find options that double as sewing machines, especially at the lower end of the price range. It should be noted that general-purpose machines are often only moderately adequate for both sewing and embroidery, rather than being excellent for just one.
What is the best embroidery machine buy?
High Sewing machine
Brother PE770 Embroidery Machine
Our opinion : This reliable embroidery machine is easy to use and delivers great results. At 650 stitches per minute, it also works fast.
What we like: Includes 136 built-in designs and six fonts, plus a USB port to easily add additional designs. The 5 x 7 inch embroidery areas are sufficient for most users. Clear LCD screen.
What we don’t like: May be difficult to use for beginners.
Or buy: Sold by Amazon
High embroidery machine for money
Brother PE800 Embroidery Machine
Our opinion : Apart from being very affordable, this machine has great features, such as a color screen.
What we like: Includes 11 fonts and 138 embroidery designs with the ability to add more from a USB drive. Easy pattern editing on the LCD touch screen. The automatic needle threader saves time.
What we don’t like: Small embroidery field.
Or buy: Sold by Amazon
Worth checking out
Sparrow never sewn25
Our opinion : This embroidery machine has 197 built-in embroidery designs and an electric foot control.
What we like: There are 7 different presser feet and a maximum speed of 850 spm.
What we don’t like: Much simpler than other models on the market.
Or buy: Sold by Amazon
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Lauren Corona written for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their buying decisions, saving them time and money.
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