Originally Posted by
Crqltr
I have been doing embroidery since the 90's and haven't had a problem working without any of this stuff except the neb bobbins and good needles!! Sulky stabelizers are good if you learn to use it correctly. I started with a Bernina 180, then a babylock, then Viking designer 1 SE, now I have the babylock ellisimo gold. I keep two of them set up for embroidery and a sewing machine to quilt on! I love my embroidery machines! I use it for quilting, clothes, towels, labels ect! I have found that the babylock is by far the most user friendly, and the newer machines transfer designs from your computer by cable so you don't need a lot of fancy software to transfer. It's fun if you get started and don't give up on it!
I have been doing ME for about 10 years. I started with a Viking D1, then SE, now have the DIamond. I love it! I quilt, sew and ME. I don't have or need any of the thing listed above! Thread, stabilizer and some temp spray is all I have purchased that wasn't part of the actual package for embroidery. Hoops come with the machines (unless you want additional sizes). I advise get the biggest hoop capability that you can afford, as too many people get a 4x4 and only want to do labels. Then find out there is a whole world out there of in the hoop designs, large jacket backs, etc. that they would love to try but can't because they only have a small hoop. I have been sewing since I was 4yrs old, did 75 square dancing dresses at one time in 1978, and didn't even know emb machines existed til I got my first one. I am hooked! You might not be. Chocolate and Vanilla and Neapolitan! But if you are interested, and it isn't a financial strain, I say go for it. I have met sooo many nice folks, just standing in line at Hancocks or Joanns, that mention their machine and we get to talking and then sewing together! It is different, it isn't for everyone. The folks that bought the machines and don't use them are missing out! Just sayin' ....and it is a waste not to use what you have. Maybe you would rather have a long arm? A large throat for quilting? But there is a different, creative world out there with ME and I for one am glad I didn't pass it up!