Best Embroidery Machine for Beginners: Top 13 Picks and Reviews

Embroidery is a timeless art that has been around for centuries. It involves decorating fabrics with needle and thread to create intricate designs and patterns. While it can be a challenging skill to master, anyone can learn embroidery with the help of the right tools. That's where an embroidery machine comes in - it simplifies the process and makes it easier for beginners to create beautiful designs.

When it comes to buying an embroidery machine, there are a few things you should consider. The first is the type of machine you need. There are two main types of embroidery machines: single-needle and multi-needle. Single-needle machines are more affordable and suitable for beginners, while multi-needle machines are more expensive and designed for professionals.

Another thing to consider is the size of the embroidery area. A larger embroidery area allows you to work on bigger projects, but it also means a larger machine. You should also look for a machine with easy-to-use controls and a variety of built-in designs and fonts to help you get started.

In this article, we'll be focusing on the best embroidery machines for beginners. We've researched and tested several models to help you find the right one for your needs. Whether you're looking to create custom designs on clothing, accessories, or home decor, we've got you covered. Let's dive in and explore the top embroidery machines for beginners on the market today.

Best Embroidery Machines for Beginners

If you're new to the world of embroidery, choosing the right embroidery machine can be a daunting task. With so many options available, it can be difficult to know where to start. That's why we've put together a list of the best embroidery machines for beginners. Whether you're looking for a basic machine to get started with or a more advanced model that can handle a variety of projects, we've got you covered. Read on to find the perfect embroidery machine for your needs.

Brother SE700 Sewing and Embroidery Machine

If you're looking for a versatile sewing and embroidery machine, the Brother SE700 is a great option.

Pros

• The SE700 is a computerized combo machine that allows you to sew and embroider with ease.
• With a 4" x 4" embroidery field and 135 built-in designs, you can customize your projects to your liking.
• The wireless LAN feature and Artspira mobile app make it easy to transfer and create embroidery patterns.

Cons

• Some users have reported difficulty with the horizontal thread spool holder.
• The manual can be difficult to follow for beginners.
• The quality of the embroidery may not match that of more expensive machines.

The Brother SE700 is a versatile machine that allows you to sew and embroider with ease. The 4" x 4" embroidery field and 135 built-in designs give you plenty of options to customize your projects. The wireless LAN feature and Artspira mobile app make it easy to transfer and create embroidery patterns, making this machine perfect for those who want to get creative with their sewing.

However, some users have reported difficulty with the horizontal thread spool holder, which can make it hard for embroidery thread to unroll. Additionally, the manual can be difficult to follow for beginners. Finally, while the quality of the embroidery is good for the price, it may not match that of more expensive machines.

Overall, if you're looking for a versatile sewing and embroidery machine that won't break the bank, the Brother SE700 is a great option.

Uten Portable Sewing Machine

If you're looking for a beginner-friendly embroidery machine, the Uten Portable Sewing Machine is a great option.

Pros

• With 200 built-in stitches and 8 buttonhole styles, this machine is versatile and can handle a variety of projects.
• The large LCD screen makes it easy to select stitches and adjust settings.
• The machine can be used in electric mode or as a handheld machine with the included foot pedal.

Cons

• Some users have reported difficulty with the machine's needle threader.
• The instructions may be confusing for beginners.
• The machine may not be as durable as more expensive models.

If you're just starting out with embroidery or sewing, the Uten Portable Sewing Machine is a solid choice. With a wide range of built-in stitches and buttonhole styles, you'll have plenty of options for your projects. The large LCD screen makes it easy to select stitches and adjust settings, and the machine's portability means you can take it with you wherever you go.

That being said, some users have reported issues with the machine's needle threader, so you may need to practice a bit to get the hang of it. Additionally, the instructions may be confusing for beginners, so you may need to do some research online or watch some tutorials to get started. Finally, while the machine is relatively affordable, it may not be as durable as more expensive models, so keep that in mind if you plan on using it frequently.

Brother Embroidery Machine, PE550D

If you're looking for a beginner-friendly embroidery machine that can help you create stunning designs with ease, the Brother PE550D might be just what you need.

Pros

• With 125 built-in designs, including 45 Disney designs, you'll have plenty of options to choose from.
• The large color touchscreen display makes it easy to preview your designs and see them in alternate colors before stitching.
• The built-in memory and USB port allow you to upload your own designs and customize the built-in ones to your liking.

Cons

• The machine is designed for embroidery only and does not function as a traditional sewing machine.
• The maximum hoop size is 4" x 4", which may not be large enough for some projects.
• The product is intended for sale only in the US at 120 volts, and any other use or sale voids the warranty.

The Brother PE550D is a versatile embroidery machine that comes packed with features to help you create stunning designs with ease. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced embroiderer, this machine has something to offer.

One of the biggest advantages of the PE550D is its 125 built-in designs, which include 45 Disney designs. This makes it easy to add a touch of magic to your projects and create something truly unique. The machine also comes with 9 built-in fonts, allowing you to personalize your projects with ease.

Another great feature of the PE550D is its large color touchscreen display. This makes it easy to preview your designs and see them in alternate colors before stitching. The machine also has built-in alignment tools to help you align your design and needle position for precise placement on your fabric.

Loading thread is made easy with a built-in automatic needle threader. This system takes care of threading the needle for you with just the touch of a lever. An additional embroidery editing feature permits you to move, resize, mirror image, and rotate prior to beginning the embroidering project.

Overall, if you're looking for a beginner-friendly embroidery machine that can help you create stunning designs with ease, the Brother PE550D is definitely worth considering.

Brother PE545 Embroidery Machine

If you're a beginner looking for an embroidery machine that is easy to use and offers multiple custom embroidery features, the Brother PE545 is a great option.

Pros

• Wireless LAN enabled, allowing you to transmit embroidery files from your PC to your embroidery machine via the free downloadable software Design Database Transfer(1), or connect via the built-in USB port
• Large 3.7” touchscreen, which allows you to drag and drop to position your embroidery pattern, make edits, and preview your designs before stitching. Plus view built-in tutorial videos
• 135 built-in embroidery patterns including kids' designs, holiday, floral, and many more. Plus 10 Built-in fonts (7 English and 3 Japanese) allow you to personalize your creations

Cons

• The PE545 is an embroidery-only machine and does not function as a traditional sewing machine
• Compatibility may vary by device and operating system. Requires connection to a wireless network
• This product is intended only in the US at 120 volts, and any other use or sale voids the warranty.

The Brother PE545 embroidery machine offers a 4" x 4" embroidery area, 10 frame patterns, and 10 unique font styles for lettering and monogramming. It also includes a built-in memory function that lets you import designs from a USB memory stick via the USB port. The embroidery machine is built with a large LCD color touchscreen that permits you to see your designs in color before stitching them. In addition, a unique Embroidery Pattern Drag and Drop feature allows you to move and position your embroidery design on the color display with just the touch of your finger.

One of the best features of the Brother PE545 is its wireless LAN connectivity. You can transmit embroidery files from your PC to your embroidery machine via the free downloadable software Design Database Transfer, or connect via the built-in USB port. This makes it easy to transfer designs and patterns to your machine without the need for cords or cables.

Another great feature of the Brother PE545 is its large 3.7” touchscreen. This allows you to easily drag and drop to position your embroidery pattern, make edits, and preview your designs before stitching. Plus, you can view built-in tutorial videos to help you get started.

While the Brother PE545 is not a traditional sewing machine, it offers 135 built-in embroidery patterns including kids' designs, holiday, floral, and many more. Plus, 10 Built-in fonts (7 English and 3 Japanese) allow you to personalize your creations. This makes it a great option for beginners who want to add new, fashionable embellishments to clothing in their closet, personalize a child's belongings with custom designs and lettering, or turn everyday pillows and blankets into customized gifts for friends and family.

Overall, the Brother PE545 embroidery machine is a great option for beginners who are looking for an easy-to-use machine with multiple custom embroidery features. It includes a multilingual user manual (English, Spanish, and French) and a 25-year limited warranty, and technical support for the life of the product.

Brother PE535 Embroidery Machine

If you're a beginner looking for an embroidery machine, the Brother PE535 is a great option with its user-friendly features and impressive range of embroidery designs.

Pros

• The 80 built-in embroidery designs, including kids' designs, holiday, floral, and more, provide plenty of options to choose from.
• The 9 built-in fonts allow for personalized creations.
• The large color touchscreen allows you to preview your designs before stitching.

Cons

• The PE535 is an embroidery machine and does not function as a traditional sewing machine.
• This product is intended for sale only in the US at 120 volts, and any other use or sale voids the warranty.
• The embroidery field is limited to 4" x 4".

The Brother PE535 embroidery machine offers a variety of custom embroidery features that make embroidery easy and fun. The built-in memory function permits you to import designs from a USB memory stick via the USB port. Additionally, the Embroidery Pattern Drag and Drop feature allows you to move and position your embroidery design on the display with just the touch of your finger.

The large LCD color touchscreen permits you to see your designs in color prior to stitching them, which is a great feature for beginners. The tutorial videos and easy needle threading system that come with the machine are also helpful for those who are new to embroidery.

Overall, if you're a beginner looking for a user-friendly embroidery machine with a range of designs to choose from, the Brother PE535 is a great option.

Brother Skitch Single-Needle Embroidery Machine

If you are looking for an affordable embroidery machine to start your embroidery journey, the Brother Skitch Single-Needle Embroidery Machine is a great option.

Pros

• The Skitch Embroidery Machine is easy to use and set up, even for beginners.
• With a 4” x 4” embroidery area and speeds up to 400 spm, you can embroider designs quickly and efficiently.
• You can import your own embroidery files and store up to 20 designs in Artspira, which is required to use the machine.

Cons

• The Skitch is an embroidery-only machine and does not function as a traditional sewing machine.
• The machine only connects via Wi-Fi, which could be an issue for some users.
• The warranty is voided if the machine is used or sold outside of the US at 120 volts.

If you are looking for an embroidery machine that is easy to use and affordable, the Brother Skitch Single-Needle Embroidery Machine is a great option. With a small footprint and the ability to import your own embroidery files, you can create personalized designs on a variety of items. However, keep in mind that this machine is not a traditional sewing machine and the warranty is voided if used outside of the US at 120 volts.

POOLIN Computerized Embroidery Machine

If you're looking for a beginner-friendly embroidery machine that comes with everything you need to get started, the POOLIN Computerized Embroidery Machine might be the perfect choice for you.

Pros

• The 7-inch color touch screen is easy to use and allows you to edit patterns just like you would on a mobile phone.
• With 96 built-in designs, 8 lettering fonts, and 10 languages, you'll be able to get started on your embroidery projects right away.
• The machine comes with 24 rolls of polyester threads, multi-colored pre-wound bobbins, and stabilizers, so you won't have to purchase additional supplies.

Cons

• Some users have reported issues with the machine breaking needles or thread after a few uses.
• The bobbins can be difficult to work with and may require some trial and error before you get the hang of them.
• The machine may not be suitable for thicker fabrics, so you'll need to use a coarse fabric needle if you want to sew thicker materials.

If you're new to embroidery and looking for an affordable and easy-to-use machine, the POOLIN Computerized Embroidery Machine is definitely worth considering. With its large color touch screen, built-in designs, and complete embroidery supplies, you'll be able to start creating beautiful embroidery projects right away. However, keep in mind that some users have reported issues with needles and bobbins, so you may need to spend some time getting used to those aspects of the machine. Overall, if you're willing to put in a little bit of effort to learn how to use the machine properly, you'll be rewarded with a powerful embroidery tool that can help you bring your creative visions to life.

Brother PE900 Embroidery Machine with WLAN

If you're looking for an embroidery machine that's easy to use and perfect for larger embroidery projects, the Brother PE900 is a great option.

Pros

• The 5” x 7” embroidery field is perfect for larger embroidery projects.
• The machine features 193 built-in designs and allows you to import your own from compatible sources.
• The color LCD touch display lets you edit your designs right on the screen.

Cons

• The machine is embroidery-only and does not function as a traditional sewing machine.
• The Artspira mobile app requires a firmware update and a USB drive.
• The embroidery patterns offered are for personal, non-commercial use only.

The Brother PE900 embroidery machine is perfect for home embroiderers who want a machine that's easy to use and versatile. The machine features a 5” x 7” embroidery field, which is perfect for larger embroidery projects. It also has 193 built-in designs, including scrollwork, florals, and quilt patterns. You can also import your own designs from compatible sources.

The machine has a color LCD touch display that lets you edit your designs right on the screen. You can rotate, mirror image, increase and decrease the size of your designs, and see how your edited designs look before stitching. The machine is easy to thread, and an automatic needle threader saves time and reduces stress by pushing the thread right through the eye of the needle.

The PE900 is also wireless LAN enabled, which means you can transmit embroidery files from your PC to your embroidery machine via the free downloadable software Design Database Transfer or connect via the built-in USB port. You can also access 50 free embroidery designs through the Artspira mobile app, make custom embroidery patterns by drawing on your mobile device, or download patterns from the collection and transfer them to your PE900 wirelessly.

Overall, the Brother PE900 embroidery machine is a great option for home embroiderers who want a machine that's easy to use, versatile, and perfect for larger embroidery projects.

Embroidex Embroidery Machine Starter Kit - Everything Needed to Do Machine Embroidery Thread, Stabilizer, Bobbin Needles Etc Plus Bonus Embroidery Designs and Instructional CD

If you're looking to start your embroidery journey, the Embroidex Embroidery Machine Starter Kit is a great option to consider.

Pros

• The kit offers all the essential embroidery paraphernalia you need to start with your first project.
• The kit comes with an instructional CD and free embroidery designs and projects to help you execute your embroidery projects smartly and efficiently.
• All the notions that come in the kit have a universal design and can be used with any machine design.

Cons

• The kit does not include pre-wound bobbins, which may be preferred according to some machine manuals.
• The weight of the bobbin threads is not specified in the kit.
• Some users have reported difficulty with downloading the free embroidery designs from the CD.

The Embroidex Embroidery Machine Starter Kit is an all-in-one embroidery starter kit that provides a cost-effective way to start from scratch with your new embroidery machine. The kit includes 24 spools of 100% polyester embroidery machine thread, four rolls of stabilizer, 30 needles, and gold-plated embroidery scissors, among other essential items.

What's more, the kit comes with an instructional CD that includes important tutorials and tips to help you smartly execute your embroidery projects and let your machine do the work you and everyone else would love. In addition, the kit comes with 20 embroidery machine designs and projects by Anita Goodesign and 20 designs by Dakota Collectibles, eliminating the need to go searching for designs for your initial projects.

All the notions that come in the kit have a universal design and can be used with any machine design. So, don't worry about which machine you are using, just pick this kit and get started and create wonderful embroidery projects.

In conclusion, the Embroidex Embroidery Machine Starter Kit is a great option for beginners looking to start their embroidery journey. It offers all the essential items you need to get started and comes with an instructional CD and free embroidery designs and projects to help you execute your embroidery projects smartly and efficiently.

Brother SE2000 Computerized Sewing and Embroidery Machine

If you're a beginner looking for an easy-to-use and diverse combo sewing and embroidering machine, the Brother SE2000 is an exceptional choice. With a host of over 190 built-in and 50 downloadable embroidery designs, 241 sewing stitches, modern technology, and easy portability, the SE2000 will be your go-to machine.

Pros

• Access 50 free embroidery designs with the Artspira mobile app
• Wireless LAN enabled to transmit embroidery files from your PC to your sewing and embroidery machine
• Advanced Color Sort and Jump Stitch Trimming functions to stitch efficiently

Cons

• Embroidery patterns offered are for personal, non-commercial use only
• Compatibility may vary by device and operating system for wireless LAN
• No mention of an automatic threader for sewing

The Brother SE2000 features a large LCD color touchscreen display that allows users to view their designs and editing options in full color prior to beginning their sewing project. The 5" x 7" embroidery field provides ample space for larger designs and lettering and for combining designs with less rehooping. The total 241 built-in stitches include an impressive array of decorative stitches and 10 styles of 1-step buttonholes that are automatically sized to fit your buttons.

The SE2000 has My Custom Stitch, which permits you to design your own custom sewing stitches and save them on your machine for future use. The design editing feature allows you to easily change individual embroidery thread colors using the built-in color palette and preview them on the 3.7” Sew Smart touchscreen. In addition, the practical Jump Stitch Trimming function automatically trims any excess thread jumps within the color.

The Brother SE2000 sewing and embroidery machine has the combination of wireless LAN and the free downloadable software Design Database Transfer that lets you send embroidery files from your PC to your machine (no USB required). It also includes 13 fonts, and you can choose from the selection of built-in script, outline, serif, and sans serif fonts and combine them with built-in or purchased designs for personalized creations.

This machine is backed by a 25-year limited warranty along with technical support for the life of the product. If you're looking for a versatile, easy-to-use sewing and embroidery machine, the Brother SE2000 is a great investment.

New brothread 42 Spools 1000M (1100Y) Polyester Embroidery Machine Thread Kit for Professional Embroiderer and Beginner

If you're looking for a reliable and affordable embroidery thread kit, the New brothread 42 Spools 1000M (1100Y) Polyester Embroidery Machine Thread Kit is worth considering.

Pros

• With 40 Brother colors including 2 spools of white and 2 spools of black, this kit provides a great variety of colors for most embroidery projects.
• Each spool is 1000M (1100Y) long, making it a great value for both professional embroidery lovers and beginners.
• The spools come with a locking base that resists thread tangling, which means that you don't need to use thread spool huggers or thread nets to hold your embroidery machine thread tails.

Cons

• The kit only includes polyester thread, which may not be suitable for all embroidery projects.
• Some users have reported that the thread is not as colorfast as they would like.
• The thread may not work well with some embroidery machines.

If you're a beginner or a professional embroiderer, the New brothread 42 Spools 1000M (1100Y) Polyester Embroidery Machine Thread Kit is a great choice for your embroidery projects. The kit includes a wide variety of colors and the spools are long-lasting, making it a great value. However, keep in mind that the thread is made of polyester, which may not be suitable for all embroidery projects. Additionally, some users have reported that the thread is not as colorfast as they would like, and it may not work well with some embroidery machines.

Smartstitch S-1201 Compact Embroidery Machine

If you're looking for a reliable embroidery machine that is easy to use, the Smartstitch S-1201 Compact Embroidery Machine is a great option.

Pros

• With its compact size and light weight, this machine is easy to move and store.
• The 7-inch LCD touchscreen and max working speed of 1200SPM make this machine efficient and user-friendly.
• The starter pack includes machine embroidery threads, stabilizers, and bobbin threads, making it a great option for beginners.

Cons

• The machine is relatively expensive compared to other beginner embroidery machines.
• Some users have reported difficulty with the automatic color change feature.
• The machine is relatively heavy, which may make it difficult to move around.

The Smartstitch S-1201 Compact Embroidery Machine is a great option for beginners who are looking for a machine that is easy to use and efficient. With its compact size and light weight, it is easy to move and store, and the 7-inch LCD touchscreen and max working speed of 1200SPM make it user-friendly and efficient. Additionally, the starter pack includes machine embroidery threads, stabilizers, and bobbin threads, making it a great option for beginners who are just starting out. However, the machine is relatively expensive compared to other beginner embroidery machines, and some users have reported difficulty with the automatic color change feature. Additionally, the machine is relatively heavy, which may make it difficult to move around.

Brother SE1900 Sewing and Embroidery Machine

If you're an embroidery beginner looking for a reliable machine that can also handle sewing and quilting, the Brother SE1900 is a great option.

Pros

• With 138 built-in designs and 11 embroidery fonts, you'll have plenty of options to choose from for your projects.
• The advanced needle threader and drop-in top bobbin make threading and bobbin changes a breeze.
• The large color touchscreen allows you to preview your designs and easily browse editing options.

Cons

• The machine is intended for sale only in the US at 120 volts, so it may not be suitable for international use.
• Some users have reported issues with the thread tangling when using larger embroidery spindles.
• The price point may be higher than some other beginner embroidery machines on the market.

The Brother SE1900 is a versatile machine that is perfect for those who want to try their hand at both sewing and embroidery. The 240 built-in sewing stitches and 10 styles of auto-size buttonholes make it easy to switch between projects. The 5" x 7" embroidery field is large enough for most designs, and the included hoop and 8 sewing feet provide everything you need to get started.

One of the standout features of the SE1900 is the large color touchscreen display. This makes it easy to preview your designs and make any necessary adjustments before you start stitching. The advanced needle threader and drop-in top bobbin also make it easy to get started on your projects without any frustration.

While the Brother SE1900 is a great machine overall, there are a few downsides to consider. It's important to note that this machine is intended for sale only in the US at 120 volts, so it may not be suitable for international use. Some users have also reported issues with the thread tangling when using larger embroidery spindles, so it's important to keep this in mind when choosing your supplies. Finally, the price point may be higher than some other beginner embroidery machines on the market, so it's important to consider your budget when making your decision.

Overall, the Brother SE1900 is a great option for beginners who want a machine that can handle both sewing and embroidery. With plenty of built-in designs, a large color touchscreen, and easy-to-use features, it's a reliable choice for anyone looking to get started with embroidery.

Buying Guide

Embroidery machines can be a great investment for beginners who want to create their own designs. However, with so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. Here are some key factors to consider when purchasing an embroidery machine:

Size and Weight

The size and weight of an embroidery machine can affect its portability and ease of use. If you plan on taking your machine to classes or events, a lighter and more compact option may be better suited for you. However, if you have a dedicated workspace, a larger and heavier machine may offer more features and capabilities.

Hoop Size

The hoop size refers to the maximum embroidery area that the machine can handle. It's important to choose a machine with a hoop size that can accommodate the designs you want to create. Some machines come with multiple hoop sizes, which can offer more flexibility in your embroidery projects.

Stitch Options

Embroidery machines offer a variety of stitch options, including different stitch types and patterns. Consider the types of designs you want to create and choose a machine that offers the stitch options that will best suit your needs. Some machines also offer the ability to import custom designs, which can expand your creative possibilities.

Ease of Use

Embroidery machines can have a steep learning curve, especially for beginners. Look for a machine that offers intuitive controls and clear instructions to make the learning process easier. Some machines also offer built-in tutorials or online resources to help you get started.

Price

Embroidery machines can range in price from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. Consider your budget and the features you need when choosing a machine. Keep in mind that a higher price tag doesn't always mean better quality or more features.

By considering these factors, you can choose an embroidery machine that will best suit your needs and help you create beautiful designs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What features should beginners look for in an embroidery machine?

As a beginner, you should look for an embroidery machine that is easy to use and has a variety of built-in designs. It should also have a large embroidery area, adjustable speed, and automatic thread tension. A machine with a built-in LCD screen and editing features can also be beneficial for beginners.

How does a multi-needle machine benefit a beginner in embroidery?

A multi-needle machine can save time and increase efficiency for beginners. It allows you to use multiple thread colors at once, which is especially useful for intricate designs. It also eliminates the need to constantly rethread the machine, making the embroidery process faster and more streamlined.

What are the advantages of a computerized embroidery machine for new users?

A computerized embroidery machine allows beginners to easily import and digitize designs. It also offers a wider range of editing options and automatic features, such as thread trimming and needle threading. This can save time and make the embroidery process more efficient.

Which Brother embroidery machine model is most suitable for novices?

The Brother SE600 is a great option for beginners. It offers a large embroidery area, built-in designs, and a touch screen LCD display. It also has a variety of editing features and automatic thread tension, making it easy to use and customize designs.

How can beginners best utilize an embroidery machine for creating text and words?

Beginners can utilize an embroidery machine for creating text and words by using built-in fonts or importing custom fonts. It's important to choose the right font size and spacing to ensure legibility and clarity. Experimenting with different thread colors and textures can also add depth and dimension to text designs.

What considerations are important when choosing an embroidery machine for a home business?

When choosing an embroidery machine for a home business, it's important to consider the size and type of projects you will be working on. A machine with a larger embroidery area and multi-needle capability can increase productivity and efficiency. It's also important to consider the cost and maintenance requirements of the machine.