Hello:
I’m in the process of researching an embroidery machine. I would like to embroidery shirts, bags, shorts….. just basic stuff for my photography business. I’ve been to a bunch of stores but they only recommend the brands they carry. I’ll need to digitalize my logo so I would like to spend under 2K for both the machine and software. I really want a machine that I won’t outgrow when my business and interest in embroidering grows. Currently Viking and Singer are in the lead. Please, please, please any advise or suggestions would be greatly appreciated! 🙂
Replies
I suggest that you go to patternreview.com and read the machine reviews. There are also professional embroidery machines, some with comparable prices. I would also go to the websites for all the brands you can, such as Bernina, Pfaff, Husqvarna/Viking,etc. A reliable dealer is very important as they are lic to repair the brand of machine, not that they need work but I take mine in once a year for a good cleaning and evaluation check up. Viking machines are upgraded all the time which can be done by the dealer or online by you. I have the dealer do my upgrades as I am "chicken"....Also the dealers usually offer free classes until you really learn the machine and software, my dealer lets me come back as often as I need. They are very supportive and often answer questions on the phone.
There is quite a learning curve with digitizing your own designs. It will take time and effort and hopefully free classes.
Look for "specials" which often coinside with holidays and sewing shows that may be in your area. Also some reconditioned used machines might be considered.
You will need to learn alot about stabilizers and threads also depending on the technique, fabric, etc. I would get a little spiral notebook and take notes so you can do your own comparison.
TEST DRIVE just like you would a car!!! Only you will know which one "feels" right to you.
I hope I haven't scared you off. I have two embroidery machines and am considering DRAWings software for digitizing that is compatible with several machines and is made by Corell Draw. There are others too, check out http://www.stitches.com if you are interested in other software brands. It is also stitches magazine and has lots of information that may be helpful.
Mary
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