If you have the money to spend I would go with an embroidery machine that can talk directly to your computer. The technology is changing so fast you might find yourself with an outdated machine a week after you purchase it. I have a Bernina Deco 650 it uses the PES format which is fairly easy to find. It is the format used by Patterns from Nancy's Notions and Martha Pullen. My machine will only do a 4" motif but that is a lot larger than you think. Mine uses little cards that plug into the machine. I also purchased a "Magic Box" that converts other formats to PES and puts them on a blank card that I can reuse. I have at least $1500 tied up in various cards and CDs for my machine. Many I have used over and over and some are still sealed in their original cases. There is also a lot of money to be spent in thread, stabilizers and different hoops etc. Think about it.