Are you thinking about buying an embroidery machine? I'm so happy for you! Because I still remember the day my first embroidery machine arrived at home and how wonderful it was to unpack everything, find the right spot, set it up, and turn it on for the first time. Ahhh...
Since 2012, we have spent many wonderful hours together, and it has never gotten boring, because embroidery is a beautiful, challenging, and also rewarding hobby. I have continually discovered new possibilities and challenges.
But where and how does one actually begin the search for their first embroidery machine? At the very beginning, the vast jungle of different manufacturers and models can be quite overwhelming. Here, I'd like to shed some light on the embroidery machine confusion, as embroidery machines can be categorized into different groups, which could significantly simplify the search.
- Combination sewing and embroidery machines,
- Pure embroidery machines in a wide variety of variations and
- Industrial embroidery machines
Industrial embroidery machines
I'd like to leave those out of this discussion, as they're suitable for mass production and complex challenges, for which there are separate courses available elsewhere. I myself own two industrial embroidery machines because I did commercial embroidery in the early years of my self-employment. But through years of collaboration with many different test stitchers and even more machine models, I can say that home embroidery machines can certainly produce wonderful results.
Combination machine or dedicated embroidery machine.
Combination machines are sewing machines that can be converted into embroidery machines in just a few steps. The advantage is obvious: you get two for the price of one. However, it's important to note that the conversion takes time each time, and while embroidering, you can't use the sewing function for your creative project. You have to wait until the machine has finished embroidering before switching back. Experience shows that many embroiderers like to continue working on their project with the sewing machine while the embroidery is being done, leaving the embroidery function running in the background. Of course, purchasing a dedicated embroidery machine would likely mean buying a separate sewing machine, increasing the overall cost if you don't already own one.
How much do I want to spend?
With such a wide and varied selection of models and their different features, it's immediately noticeable that the price range is also very broad. The lower price ranges start with a frame size of 10 x 10 cm, but otherwise have everything a sewing machine needs. The higher the price range, the larger the embroidery areas and the more functions the machines offer. But what do you really need? At this point, I can only offer recommendations based on my personal experience, and of course, there are many other opinions, which are certainly valid and shouldn't be misunderstood. Nevertheless, I would proceed according to the decision criteria below, keeping your own budget in mind, of course.
Where should I look?
Embroidery machine suppliers can be found both online and in local specialist shops. Online, the entire selection is displayed on the screen in no time. In specialist shops, the machines can be examined live and in person. Especially at the beginning, having a personal contact person nearby who is quick and easy to reach is advantageous. This is because many questions about machine operation arise at this stage, especially since some tasks need to be completed on the computer before embroidery begins. However, online retailers also offer excellent telephone customer service, with competent and quick assistance available over the phone.
The embroidery frame size
An embroidery machine doesn't need much; what's ultimately important is that it stitches well. A 10 x 10 cm hoop size is certainly sufficient for a vast number of designs. However, there are also many designs that simply can't be stitched with this hoop size, leading to disappointment. A quick look at various embroidery design shops reveals that the possibilities are limited. Even entry-level embroidery machines are quite expensive and should provide enjoyment for a long time. In this case, it's worth investing a bit more.
Various comfortable features
Examples of features that could be included are a thread cutter or large displays. A thread cutter is very convenient. Without one, all the jump threads that form between individual embroidery elements (and there can be a lot, depending on the design) have to be removed by hand. Sometimes this is even necessary during embroidery on both the top and bottom surfaces to ensure a clean finish. This may require interrupting the embroidery process, removing the hoop from the machine, removing the threads, and then re-threading them. So, it's not exactly quick and easy. A thread cutter takes care of this automatically, making the embroidery process much simpler. Large displays, sometimes in color and with touch functionality, are certainly great and offer a good overview of your work. The display on one of my now rather old machines is about the size of the very first Nokia phones and has two lines. So, it's definitely possible to manage without one.
All in all, I would say that a large frame size and a thread cutter are compelling arguments. A good display is a great help.
The different brands
The various models from different manufacturers vary slightly in handling and operation, but after some time and several runs, this becomes second nature and runs itself. During the development of embroidery designs, I work with many different models, and they all stitch well. Of course, good embroidery quality also requires good embroidery materials. Cora Design's instructions always include information on this, and I will write more about it later.
What else?
Our passion for working with natural materials is a demanding hobby that offers the opportunity to express and showcase our creativity. However, it also requires familiarity with computers, specifically purchasing embroidery files and transferring them to the machine. At this point, good customer service or a competent specialist retailer is very helpful, at least initially.
All in all
Therefore, one should consider the following before making a purchase:
- How much do I want to spend?
- Do I have a good specialist retailer with competent advice and a large selection, or is online retail my favorite?
- Pure embroidery machine or combination machine?
- What frame size and special features such as thread cutter, display, etc. should the machine offer?
I hope I was able to bring some order to the initial questions about buying an embroidery machine and I hope you find your dream machine that you will enjoy for a long time.
The next Cora Design blog post will be about embroidery materials, tools, and yarns. Until then, all the best!
Sincerely,
Cora Sandra
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