Looking for embroidery/applique machine recommendations
 

I know there have been several other posts about this, I have read most all of them.. just thought it wouldn't hurt to throw my own out there :)

I am looking to start doing some machine applique and embroidery, and I'm wondering what machine might best fit my needs. At the moment, I'd like to stay under the $500 price range. It would be for personal use, so I don't need anything with a bajillion needles. I also do not need it to be a sewing machine as well.. I have a Janome that I love. I would prefer something with a 5x7 hoop size or bigger.

ETA that I would love something that I can use designs from my computer, not have to buy a bunch of cards and such.

Any thoughts? I am not opposed to buying a gently used machine. Thanks!

I look forward to hearing what people may suggest to you! Wishing you some good luck on getting what you want!

Look for a machine that can take a USB stick as opposed to requiring a special memory card. That way you can download items from any of the embroidery sites to the USB and bring them right to the machine.

Also ... be sure to check with your dealer if they have any used embroidery machines in your price range. Folks trade-up all the time, the dealer services the machines and re-sells them - most of the time with a short warranty (30, 60 or 90 days usually). And because your getting it from the dealer, you'll get support and possibly even lessons.

This thread has some interesting information in it about embroidery and machines.

http://www.quiltingboard.com/main-f1...un-t32969.html

I would do a brother PE-700 with a 5x7 hoop that is embroidery only

You should go to your local dealer and see what used machines they have.

My sister had a very nice, embroidery only Brother, with 5x7 and 4x4 hoops. She enjoyed it for a while, but eventually sold it. The other day she told me she'd rather have an embroidery/sewing machine, one that can do both. Although I use my Singer XL-400 mostly for embroidery, I do use it occasionally for stitches that my straight-stitch-only machines can't. It's the best of both worlds.