Embroidery machines

[Karsev]

Hi, HSN is selling a Singer Futura XL 400 sewing, embroidery machine with lots of software and accessories for $799 today. Yesterday I went to a local store that sells Pfaff and Vikings. New models just came out so the last models are now reduced. Unfortunately, most of these embroidery machines are selling in the ballpark of $5000+ which is way out of my league. I just want to try some of the really neat looking embroidery designs on towels, pillows, bags. Can anyone give me some input on the Singer? Thanks a lot!

[auntjana]

One thing I have learned from less expensive embrroidery machines is that the thread breaks constantly. I have one of the Pfaff machines and waited a long time until I bought mine as there was so much trouble with earlier models.

[sharonkl]

I think if you find someone selling a model that isn't new but was top of the line a few years ago you would be happy. I have a Viking and love it. they are alot of fun.

[TooMuchFabric]

The sewing machine store I frequent usually has some used machines and they give lessons and have warranties on the machines. There are folks upgrading and they have really taken good care of the machines then the store makes sure they are in good working order before they sell them and the prices are USUALLY pretty good.

The one thing I have learned is a very important part of the embroidery machines is how you transfer the designs from the computer to the machine. I really like the ones that allow for the use of a flash drive. If the machine has to be connected directly to the computer that can make for a logistics problem. Also the cost of the software to look at the designs on the computer. Some machines require a special card to be transfered and some of the older machines still use the floppy disks.

Another unexpected cost for me was the cost of the embroidery thread. My machine is very particular and requires a pricey thread to not have issues.

[cindyg]

I have a Janome 300E (embroidery machine only) and I love it. I can start an embroidery design then turn around and sew on my other sewing machine at the same time.

[Suzquilts]

I bought my Viking Scandinavian 300 about 5 years ago and really love it. It's a refurbished machine someone had traded in. I use a Little Max transfer system that uses a data card. You transfer the designs to the card from your computer and the card goes in the sewing machine. The only drawback to the 300 is that you can only do 4x4 designs. However, that hasn't stopped me from having over 100 designs that I use on towels, sweatshirts, tote bags, T-shirts, all kinds of things. I get my designs from Embroiderylibrary.com. They have sales quite frequently and since I sell quite a bit of what I embroider, they pay for themselves in a very short time.

I love having my embroidery machine doing one thing while I quilt on my "short arm" LOL. My 300 is also my piecing/sewing machine as well. It has held up very well, with only one check up needed for cleaning, etc.

Enjoy the journey!

Susan

[chynaquilter1]

My husband bought me the Baby Lock Ellisomo sewing , embroidery machine and I love it.
Before this one I had the Pfaff 2170 and had lots of problems with it.

[XS&QLTS]

I have a Bernina 440QE with the embroidery module and yes, it is a pain to connect everything up (and it takes a bit of room now that I have a 17" laptop!), but I am having lots of fun with it!

[Karsev]

Thank you all for sharing your experiences. You have given me valuable information to consider when I make my choice. This site is the best for getting honest opinions. Thanks again, Karen