I’ve always been a bit of a craft chameleon, weaving my way through the colorful world of textiles with a curious heart and eager hands. From stitching the craziest outfits to dabbling in the cozy corners of quilting, my journey has been nothing short of a creative whirlwind. But, oh, stepping into the realm of machine embroidery? That was a game-changer. Getting my own embroidery machine was, without a doubt, one of those pivotal ‘best decisions ever made,’ transforming the way I breathe life into my creations.
And now I am here to help you find the perfect machine for your first steps in your embroidery era. We’ll cover the essential aspects of embroidery machines, including key features to look for, how to balance quality with affordability, and the best brands for beginners. We’ll also dive into real user reviews to give you a sense of what to expect and help you avoid common pitfalls.
My goal was to explore and present different options, whether you want to pursue embroidery as a hobby, or looking to start an embroidery business. Hopefully, by the end of this guide, you’ll have a clear understanding of what makes a good embroidery machine for beginners and feel prepared to make an informed decision.
My Top Pick
Brother PE900
An embroidery-only machine with a 3.7” LCD display, 193 built-in designs, 13 fonts, and a 5″ x 7″ embroidery area, and a heap of amazing features like on-screen editing and combining designs.
Best Sewing & Embroidery
Brother SE1900
Combines sewing and embroidery, packed with designs, fonts, and 240 stitches, plus a 5″x7″ field and user-friendly LCD for editing—truly an all-in-one crafting powerhouse.
Multi-Needle Option
SmartStitch S-1201
A beginner’s dream for diving into multi-needle embroidery. Its speedy, easy-to-navigate setup and solid support make tackling even the trickier projects a breeze.
Best Investment
BAi Mirror 1501
For anyone thinking about starting an embroidery business, this 15-needle machine with a 13.7″ x 19.7″ embroidery area, laser positioning, and automatic color change is a top choice.
What does an embroidery machine do?
An embroidery machine works by moving a hooped piece of fabric under a needle, following a pre-programmed design. These designs can be built-in, purchased, or custom-created and uploaded to the machine. The machine then uses this guide to stitch the design onto your fabric, effectively “printing” your artwork with thread.
Why embroidery?
Embroidery allows for a level of creativity and personalization that few other crafts can match. Whether you’re looking to personalize gifts, create unique home decor, or even start a small crafting business, embroidery offers endless possibilities. The satisfaction of seeing a design come to life, stitch by stitch, is unparalleled.
What are the must-haves of a beginner embroidery machine?
All right now, let’s talk about the essentials, the non-negotiables, the absolute must-haves for your first embroidery machine. These are based on my personal experience as a novice, understanding of the common challenges and needs of beginners, as well as insights from experienced embroiderers. If you don’t want to make the same mistakes new embroiders often do, pay close attention to this list:
- Cheap – But Not Too Cheap: It’s tempting to go for the least expensive machine when you’re just starting, but extremely cheap models might lack durability and essential features, leading to a frustrating experience. Avoiding the cheapest options also means you’re more likely to get a machine that’s built to last. A durable machine not only withstands the learning curve but also grows with you as your skills improve, ensuring you don’t quickly outgrow it. I enjoy discovering new thing I can use my first embroidery machine for.
- Intuitive Interface: For beginners, a machine with an intuitive interface is key. This means clear menus, straightforward settings, and a non-intimidating overall experience. It makes the learning process smoother and lets you focus on creativity rather than getting bogged down by complicated controls.
- General User-Friendliness: Beyond a simple interface, the true beginner-friendly embroidery machine shines in its overall ease of use. This encompasses every step of the embroidery process, from threading the needle and changing the thread to hooping fabric and positioning designs. A machine that makes these foundational tasks straightforward is invaluable for beginners.
- Usability Out of the Box: You don’t want the IKEA furniture experience here – your machine should be ready to use straight out of the box with minimal setup. This immediate usability is encouraging for new embroiderers, offering a positive first experience without the need for complicated installations or adjustments.
- Ability to Edit Designs: Having the option to edit designs directly on the machine (such as resizing, rotating, or combining designs) provides a hands-on learning experience. It encourages experimentation and helps beginners understand design principles in embroidery.
- Brand Support and Community: Choosing a machine from a brand that offers strong customer support and has an active user community can be incredibly beneficial. Access to built-in tutorials, online forums, and customer service can provide invaluable help as you navigate your early embroidery projects. Brother has and actual customer support, plenty of tutorials available and a proprietary design platform Artspira. Ricoma has an entire YouTube channel dedicated to different techniques, digitizing and setting up machines.
Best hobby machine: Brother PE800
Brother PE800 is my first embroidery machine and it’s one of the easiest embroidery machines to learn on. First up, the PE800 boasts a roomy 5″ x 7″ embroidery field, giving you plenty of playground space for your designs. Whether it’s a majestic unicorn on a tote or your niece’s name jazzing up a pillowcase, this machine has the room to make it happen.
The intuitive LCD touchscreen display allows for easy navigation through its expansive library of 138 built-in embroidery designs, including beautiful floral and quilt patterns, as well as 11 built-in fonts. This variety offers a broad canvas for creativity without the immediate need for additional software.
- Your ideal first embroidery buddy, super beginner-friendly!
- Spacious 5″ x 7″ play area for all your designs.
- Touchscreen with 138 designs and 11 fonts at your fingertips.
- Auto-threading and quick-set bobbin
- Brother’s got your back with top-notch support and a buddy-like user community.
But here’s the kicker: the PE800 is as easy to use as your favorite app. With an automatic needle threader and a quick-set bobbin, it’s like the machine says, “Don’t sweat the small stuff; I’ve got it!” This means more time creating and less time tangled in threads.
Another reason the Brother PE800, and the Brother embroidery machines in general are a hit with beginners is the extensive support available from both the manufacturer and the user community. Brother is known for its helpful customer service and extensive online tutorials, which can be a boon for those just starting. Additionally, the vibrant community of Brother machine users often shares tips, tricks, and designs, providing a welcoming environment for newcomers.
So, why is the PE800 a fantastic pick for beginners? It’s simple: it combines the freedom to explore a wide array of projects with the ease of use and support you need when you’re just starting out.
Embroidery + Sewing: Brother SE1900
For those venturing into the world of fabric crafts, the Brother SE1900 stands out for a big reason: it effortlessly combines sewing and embroidery functionalities. This makes it a multitasking powerhouse, ideal for beginners eager to explore a wide range of projects without needing multiple machines.
At its core, the SE1900 offers a 5″ x 7″ embroidery field, providing ample space for various embroidery projects. The color touchscreen LCD is your straightforward gateway to navigating through features, including 138 built-in embroidery designs and 11 fonts, offering a solid foundation for creativity without overwhelming complexity.
- Sewing & embroidery in one package, perfect for craft newbies.
- Spacious 5″ x 7″ area.
- Color touchscreen: Your easy access to 138 designs & 11 fonts.
- Features like auto-threading & quick-set bobbin = less hassle, more fun.
- Grows with your skills, making it a fab long-term craft companion.
Beyond its multifunctionality, the SE1900 doesn’t skimp on features. With a sizable embroidery field and an intuitive color touchscreen, it lays a solid foundation for both simple and complex projects. The automatic needle threader and quick-set bobbin further streamline the process, making it accessible and less daunting for newcomers. In essence, the Brother SE1900 stands out not just for its ability to tackle both sewing and embroidery but also for its thoughtfully designed features that cater to the evolving needs of beginners. It’s a machine that grows with you, making it a smart choice for anyone serious about diving into the world of fabric crafts.
Janome Memory Craft 500E
When it comes to embroidery, the Janome Memory Craft 500E is a dream come true for beginners who are ready to dive deep. Its standout feature is undoubtedly the large embroidery hoop, offering an expansive canvas for your most ambitious designs. But it doesn’t stop there—the 500E comes equipped with four different hoop sizes, catering to a wide range of project sizes and complexities right out of the gate.
What truly sets the Memory Craft 500E apart is the comprehensive package option. Imagine starting your embroidery journey not just with a machine, but with an entire arsenal at your disposal. This package isn’t just a collection of accessories; it’s a well-thought-out toolkit designed to enhance your embroidery experience. From the get-go, you have everything you need, including software that opens up a world of design possibilities, making the process from imagination to implementation seamless and enjoyable.
- A great start for embroidery enthusiasts.
- Large hoop for big projects and four sizes for versatility.
- Comprehensive package includes essential tools and software.
- Acustitch software for creating unique designs.
- User-friendly for beginners with potential for complex projects.
The Memory Craft 500E comes with Janome Acustitch software included, which totally changes the game. It opens up a whole new world for beginners, letting them tweak, twist, and totally invent new designs. You’re not just stuck with what’s already in the machine. This freedom is a big deal because it really lets your creativity run wild and makes your projects deeply personal, which, let’s face it, is what embroidery is all about.
For beginners who are serious about diving into embroidery and want a machine that will grow with them, the Janome Memory Craft 500E is a stellar choice. It’s beginner-friendly not just because of its intuitive design and ease of use, but because it offers a generous learning curve. With four different hoop sizes, it allows new embroiderers to start small and gradually tackle more ambitious projects without needing an upgrade. The comprehensive package option, complete with all the necessary accessories and software, means you have everything you need from the start. This setup eliminates the guesswork and piecemeal gathering of tools, letting beginners focus on mastering their craft. In essence, the 500E is ideal for beginners who are looking for a machine that supports their journey from simple initial projects to more complex designs.
Brother Innov-is 1700
Ok, you got me, I love Brother embroidery machines! It’s just that they have this way of making embroidery feel like a breeze, even when you’re just starting out. And when it comes to the Brother Innov-is 1700, well, it’s like this machine was made with a beginner’s wish list in mind.
First off, the Innov-is 1700 comes packed with features that are super user-friendly. Think of it as having a helpful buddy by your side, guiding you through your projects. The touchscreen makes selecting and editing designs feel like you’re just playing on your phone—easy and intuitive.
- Ideal for both beginners and advanced crafters
- 258 built-in embroidery designs and 13 embroidery fonts
- Generous 6″ x 10″ embroidery area, 6″ x 10″ and 5″ x 7″ standard frames included
- Wireless design transfer capability
- 4.85″ color LCD touch screen for editing
- Features like Auto Presser Foot and Automatic Thread Cutting
- Embroidery speeds up to 850 stitches per minute
- LED lights for a well-lit workspace
Then there’s the iBroidery, which is Brother’s exclusive online platform. It’s like having an endless library of designs at your fingertips from where you can pick, download, and even tweak these designs right on your machine. It’s super handy for making your projects uniquely yours and keeps things fresh as you get more into embroidery.
And let’s not forget about the hoops and accessories that come with it. It’s like opening a treasure chest every time you start a new project, with all the right tools already in your hands. Plus, the machine grows with you. As you get better and more adventurous with your designs, the Innov-is 1700 keeps up, making it a long-term companion on your embroidery journey.
For future professionals: SmartStitch S-1201
Diving into embroidery with a professional, multi-needle machine might seem like a big leap for beginners, but if the funds are there, it can be a game-changer. Here’s why: starting with a machine that’s a notch above the basics means you’re already set up for growth. This kind of capability means you won’t hit a ceiling as your skills and ambitions grow. I believe that even those new to embroidery can quickly get up to speed, making the transition to professional-quality projects smoother and more intuitive.
- Perfect for embroidery newbies ready to level up.
- Designed for growth, matching your expanding skills.
- Makes professional projects more accessible.
- 12 needles simplify color changes.
- Speedy stitching at 1200 stitches per minute.
- Roomy work area with a 7-inch touchscreen.
- Versatile for all sorts of projects and materials.
- Comes with everything you need to start.
The SmartStitch S-1201 embroidery machine is a multi-needle powerhouse that’s especially suitable for those looking to start or expand an embroidery business. Its 12 needles allow for a wide range of color work without the need for manual thread changes, enhancing efficiency and productivity in your projects. Multi needle embroidery machines are expensive, but Smartstitch S-1201 is one of those units that offers plenty of features and possibilities for a very reasonable price. It’s free arm design means that you can embroider anything on it: shirts, denim jackets, toys, you can even embroider hats.
The SmartStitch S-1201 stands out for its high-speed embroidery capabilities, reaching up to 1200 stitches per minute, ensuring both quick and precise work on intricate designs. Its substantial embroidery area of 9.5″x12.6″ accommodates a wide range of project sizes, enhanced by a 7-inch LCD touchscreen that simplifies design selection and navigation. With the capacity to store up to 100 million stitches, it’s incredibly versatile, handling numerous projects and materials like denim, canvas, and leather with ease. The machine’s readiness for a variety of tasks is further supported by a comprehensive starter pack, making it a robust choice for those looking to tackle diverse embroidery projects right from the start.
Bai MIRROR 1501
Walking down the ‘potentially starting a business’ road, is this machine. The Bai MIRROR 1501 embroidery machine is a solid choice for those looking to delve into embroidery, whether for personal projects or with a small business in mind. I have already covered the reasons to seriously consider this machine in the post about the machines for embroidering hats. Its standout features include a large 13.7″ x 19.7″ embroidery area, providing ample space for various project sizes, and a high working speed of up to 1,200 stitches per minute, which ensures efficiency in completing your projects. Notably, this machine is equipped with 15 needles, allowing for a wide color palette in your designs without the need for frequent manual thread changes.
- A hidden gem in embroidery machines, outstanding value.
- Powerhouse with 15 needles, ready to tackle any design you dream up.
- Boasts a large 13” x 19” embroidery space for those bigger projects.
- The 10-inch touchscreen makes it as user-friendly as a tablet.
- It’s super versatile – from hats to shoes, it embroiders it all.
- Easy design upload via USB, and it’s great for photo embroidery too.
- Comes with a bundle of handy accessories for various projects.
- A perfect match for both newbies and seasoned embroiderers looking to grow.
What makes the Bai MIRROR 1501 particularly appealing, especially for beginners with a commercial focus, is its blend of professional-grade capabilities with user-friendly aspects. The machine is designed for durability and comes with a wide range of preset accessories, making it ready to tackle an extensive array of projects right out of the box. The technical support provided, including a comprehensive teaching manual and the option to consult with customer service engineers, ensures that users can fully utilize the machine’s capabilities and address any challenges that may arise.
Moreover, its versatility extends to various types of embroidery projects, from personalizing hats, T-shirts, and jackets to embellishing bags, leather items, and shoes, making it suitable for a broad spectrum of embroidery enthusiasts. The USB transfer capability is a convenient feature for importing custom designs, further enhancing the machine’s versatility
What you need to know before getting your first embroidery machine
Before you bring home your first embroidery machine and dive into the vibrant world of threads and fabrics, there are some essential bits of wisdom to keep in your creative toolkit. This knowledge will not only help you choose the right machine but also set you up for a smooth and enjoyable embroidery experience.
Single needle vs Multi needle
Embroidery machines come in various types, from single-needle models that are great for beginners to multi-needle powerhouses for more complex projects. Knowing the difference and what each type offers is key to matching the machine to your creative aspirations.
The problem with single needle machines is that it can only use one color at a time. This means that you will need to manually change threads each time you need a new color. This might be good for beginners to really pay attention to the whole process of embroidering a design and learn, but it gets tiring pretty quickly and it is not cost effective.
On the other hand, multi needle machines are much larger and much more expensive, so if you are just looking to test out whether embroidery is for you, multi needle machine might be overkill.
Embroidery area matters
Pay attention to the embroidery area size. It determines the maximum design size you can work on. Think about the projects you’re planning – will a 4″x4″ area suffice, or are you aiming for larger designs that require more space? I suggest that you look for machines that have at least 5” x 7” embroidery field. Once you start embroidering you will soon realize that you can never have too much space for embroider, and it’s a real hassle when you can’t do the design in a size you want.
Balancing quality and price
For a beginner, it’s tempting to opt for the least expensive option, but remember, the cheapest machines might lack in durability and essential features, potentially leading to a frustrating experience. On the other hand, high-end machines boast advanced features but might be overwhelming for beginners and strain your budget. Striking a balance is crucial; aim for a machine that offers the fundamental features you need without being overly complex or too basic. This sweet spot ensures you get a machine that’s both a joy to use and a sound investment in your crafting future.
You will need digitizing software
Most machines, especially hobby models, don’t come with digitizing software. This software turns images into stitch files the machine can interpret, and it is essential if you plan to create your own designs. There are couple of very powerful (and expensive) options like Hatch, some brands also offer their software like Brother or Ricoma, but more on that on some other occasion. For now, I advise you to get in touch with the community, there are many people happy to share insights, including how you might access digitizing software, sometimes even at no cost.
Diving into the world of embroidery can be as thrilling as it is intricate, and it sure is addictive. As you navigate through your options for that perfect beginner’s machine, remember, I’m here to help demystify the process. Got questions or need a nudge in the right direction? Don’t hesitate to reach out. Your journey into embroidery is just beginning, and I’m excited to be a part of it.