Hello everyone!
I am new here, but I've been coming to the board for advice and tips for almost a year now. The community here seems so nice and helpful that I decided I should ask for some advice.
I've been quilting for about 10 years, but just in the past year or so have I really gotten into it and began knocking out quilts. I'm completely addicted to making things now! I have had a Janome 6260QC for the past ten years, which I absolutely LOVE. I've been wanting to get a new machine though. One with embroidery capabilities. I have done a ton of research online and I thought I had settled on a Janome 9850. I went to my local quilt shop yesterday and the lady showed me the Janome 550e. Now I'm torn. The only thing I don't like about the 550e is that it's just for embroidery and I thought I wanted an all in one. But the hoop size is incredible!
So my questions are: Has anyone used either of these? And if so how did you like them? Is the 550e easy to use for a beginner? Is it worth the extra money for the bigger hoop when it's only for embroidery?
I know a lot of it will come down to personal preference and such, but I'm hoping someone has some input on how they work, or what someone who's beginning should want/look for? I know I don't want a tiny hoop, but the 9850 seems to have a decent size? I'm not 100% set on a Janome, they are just what I know and trust. So if someone has a third option that will blow the others away please let me know that also. I'm mainly just looking for a machine that will last me for a good while, and allow me to learn and grow without being too small or lacking features. (I know, I don't want much, do I?
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Thanks for reading!