If your goal is to create and stitch your own designs, I’d recommend focusing on an embroidery-only machine rather than a combination sewing/embroidery machine. Brands like Brother, Janome, and Babylock have solid options that are reliable and workhorses, especially if you plan to use software for digitizing your own designs.
the software you pair with the machine is just as important as the machine itself. Programs like Embrilliance, Floriani Total Control U, or Hatch make designing and editing much easier than relying on the machine’s built-in screen. Starting with a more affordable machine plus good software often gives you more flexibility than investing in a $9,000 combination machine right away.
Last edited by patricej; 01-12-2026 at 02:42 AM.
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