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CAMFive CFHS-CT1508 10H 8 heads Review

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Janome Memory Craft Embroidery Machine Review

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                                              Useful Resources :

http://janome.com/en/machines/embroidery/mc-350e/

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SINGER Futura XL-550 215-Stitch Sewing and Embroidery Machine Review

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                                        Useful Resources :

http://www.singerco.com/products/2280/xl-550-futura

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Janome Memory Craft 200E Embroidery Machine Review

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                                          Useful Resources :

http://janome.com/en/machines/embroidery/mc-200e/

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Brother PE500 4×4 Embroidery Machine Review

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                                          Useful Resources :

http://www.brother-usa.com/HomeSewing/ModelDetail.aspx?ProductID=PE500

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Janome MB-4N 4 Needle Embroidery Machine Review

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                                            Useful Resources :

http://janome.com/en/machines/embroidery/mb-4s/

The post Janome MB-4N 4 Needle Embroidery Machine Review appeared first on selectsewingmachine.

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Brother SE400 Combination Computerized Sewing and 4×4 Embroidery Machine Review

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                                        Useful Resources :

http://www.brother-usa.com/homesewing/ModelDetail.aspx?ProductID=SE400

The post Brother SE400 Combination Computerized Sewing and 4×4 Embroidery Machine Review appeared first on selectsewingmachine.

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Brother PE770 5×7 inch Embroidery Machine Review

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                                        Useful Resources :

http://www.brother-usa.com/homesewing/ModelDetail.aspx?ProductID=PE770

The post Brother PE770 5×7 inch Embroidery Machine Review appeared first on selectsewingmachine.

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What kind of embroidery machine do I need

I am thinking of buying an embroidery machine to be used for putting monograms on towels to make personalized gifts. My budget limit is $400-$500.

When buying an embroidery machine, you cannot just unbox it and start embroidering immediately. You need to learn how to use your machine and take lessons on how to operate it properly. The tools needed for embroidering towels like special threads, needles, and bobbin threads differ from those that you use with a normal fabric. You also need to have a special stabilizer to push down the terry cloth so they do not ruin your design.

We recommend that you buy a second-hand model from a sewing machine dealer so they can give you a crash course on how to use your embroidery machine.

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Is it easy to learn how to use an embroidery machine

I am thinking of buying an embroidery machine and use it for some good ideas that I have although I have never worked with an embroidery machine before. I intend to make different fonts, numbers, dots and other nature patterns. What are the basics that I need to know?

Using an embroidery machine is easier than using the sewing machine. You can learn how to use the machine by continuous research and experimentation with different designs.

Most embroidery machines come with built-in fonts and designs. You can also transfer more designs to your machine by downloading something from the internet to your machine. You will find out that there are a lot of good designs that are free.

Some basic machines use additional software; a reader box as well as a rewritable card for machine embroidery that costs at around $200.

Brother is a good brand of embroidery machine that is user friendly for beginners and you can get the additional software that we mentioned above at a lower price.

Aside from the embroidery machine, you will also need embroidery threads, stabilizer and a machine embroidery bobbing thread which you can buy in fabric stores.

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How does an embroidery machine work

I am aware that embroidery machines need a software where you can choose your own designs. Do these machines embroider those designs by itself?

In a way, yes. There are different types of home embroidery machines. Basic embroidery machines will read the digitized pattern and embroider one color of thread at a time. You need to change the thread manually to feed a different color. Invest to a more expensive model or type of embroidery machine if you want a machine that can offer you different features like bigger design area, multiple colors that are threaded simultaneously or faster stitching.

Some embroidery machines come with basic patterns that you can already use. Design cards are available for purchase if you want other design options. An alternative is to buy a software and a hardware where you can download or buy some designs from the internet and convert it into a format that your machine can recognize. If you want to make your own designs, there is also a software that you can buy enabling you to digitize your own patterns.

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How do I make customized applique fonts for my embroidery machine?

I want to know how to make an applique for my wife because she constantly buys them. The machine that we have is Husqvarna Viking Designer Topaz 20 with the 5D Embroidery program.

Making customized applique patterns is not possible without you knowing how to write the program that is compatible with your 5D Embroidery software. There is also the issue of software licensing protection by Husqvarna.

Many single patterns that are for sale are very cheap. Try visiting the Embroidery Library and you can see that some patters are available to buy for as low as $1. They also give free patterns and sale items once you buy from them.

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Best Sewing Machines

Aside from the usual reason of sewing for the sake of mending clothes, sewing can be a fulfilling activity especially when one sees the fruits of his labor. It is also one way to save up and avoid buying store-bought clothes, and just have the freedom to express creative talents. A lesser-known benefit of sewing is the brain exercise than results from having to concentrate on maintaining the hand-eye coordination.

How to Choose the Right Sewing Machine

Innovations in the sewing machine industry has made choosing the perfect machine an overwhelming task. Even experienced sewers will have a hard time choosing among models that sometimes differ in only a few features. It is important to keep in mind that it is best to choose a sewing machine that will fulfill the purpose of the sewer.

Budget

Setting a budget is probably just as important determining the purpose because many machines offer the same features but greatly differ in prices. Most high-end sewing machines offer features that may not even be used, so if budget is limited it is better to stick to a machine whose features will be maximized.

Built-in Stitches

After deciding on a budget, the next decision should be about the desired basic features on the sewing machine. The most important one to consider is perhaps the number of built-in stitches. More doesn’t necessarily mean better because paying a lot just to have more stitches that aren’t going to be used isn’t exactly a wise decision. Besides, almost all sewing can be done with just a straight stitch and a zigzag stitch.

Mechanical vs Computerized

Sewing machines today fall under the category of being either mechanical or computerized. The hybrid of the two is the electronic machine, but it isn’t as popular as the first two. Mechanical machines are good for beginners because they are simple and do not require much maintenance. Computerized machines make sewing easier, but they are also pricier and will need regular service.

Deciding on the rest of the machine’s features will just depend on the level of convenience that the sewer desires. Most machines today offer common features like automatic needle threader, adjustable speed control, lighting, automatic thread cutter, and so much more. There are also attachments and feet that come with most machines. Again, it is best to choose a machine that offers accessories that can be used for a specific purpose.

Below are plenty of highly-rated machines that are the best of the best among their categories.

Best Sewing Machine for Beginners

Brother CS6000i

Beginners and intermediate alike will love this Brother CS6000i sewing machine. It offers plenty of features for basic sewing and quilting. The price is also ideal for those wanting to try their hand at sewing. The machine is made of plastic, making it light enough to move around the house or bring to sewing classes using the included carrying case.

    A detachable oversized table is included to facilitate sewing of larger swatches of fabric. Different presser feet also come with the CS6000i in order to simplify quilting projects.

The CS6000i is easy to maintain and doesn’t get dirty easily. The machine does have a tendency to be shaky due to its weight, so it is advisable to place it on a secure surface. Among others, some notable features include adjustable speed control, easy machine threading, easy bobbin winding, automatic needle threader, and free arm for sewing sleeves.

Pros:

lightweight

user-friendly

value for money

Cons:

number of stitches lower than others in same price range

no built-in memory saver

presser foot pressure cannot be adjusted

Best Sewing Machine Overall

Singer 7258

What users like most about the Singer 7258 is the ease of use that comes with having a full computer system and a lot of features. It is also a favorite of beginners because they do not need to spend much time learning techniques by reading a manual.

    Even expert sewers will appreciate Singer 7258’s numerous features that make daunting sewing projects so much easier to tackle.

Included in Singer 7258’s features are basic stiches, quilting and heirloom stiches, decorative stiches, one-step buttonholes, speed control, and many more. The machine comes with 10 metal presser feet and a 25-year limted warranty.

Pros:

ideal for beginners

numerous features

10 metal presser feet

Cons:

not ideal for thick material and fabrics

manual adjustment is not easy

no drop feed dog lever

Best Budget Sewing Machine

Brother XM2701

Although lacking features some models have, the Brother XM2701 will still fulfill the most basic of sewing needs and then some. Included in the features are 27 stitch options, six presser feet, and one-step button hole setting.

    The bobbin is top loading, and its winding is automatic. Crafting and quilting are also possible with this affordable model.

The XM2701 is equipped with a rotary dial that allows selection of stiches. Sewing sleeves, cuffs, and hems are possible with the machine’s free arm. The machine is also portable with its lightweight feature, and comes with a 25-year warranty.

Pros:

affordable

6 presser feet

jam resistant top drop-in bobbin

Cons:

LED is dim

slow stitching speed

tension adjustment is hard to set

Best High-End Sewing Machine

Singer 9960 Quantum Stylist

Ideal for intermediate and advanced sewers, the Singer 9960 Quantum Stylist justifies its price by including numerous features and accessories. For starters, the machine offers the option of choosing among 600 types of stitches, along with five fonts for embroidery, and 13 one-step buttonholes.

    Despite all the remarkable features, the Singer 9960 is still incredibly easy to use, especially with an auto-pilot function that allows sewers to take the foot off the pedal. The machine works quietly and is fitted with an LCD screen that reminds users of the stitch they are using, along with the corresponding width, length, and recommended presser foot.

Pros:

600 stitches

easy threading system

stitch monitoring

Cons:

back button too close to other buttons

older versions have bobbin jamming issues

heavy

Best Quilting Sewing Machine

Brother PQ1500SL

The Brother PQ1500SL impresses with its rate of sewing up to 1500 stitches per minute. This machine was made with quilters in mind, evident with the absence of other stitch options, except for the straight stitch.

  With PQ1500SL’s ease of use and relatively low price, however, even beginners who want to start quilting will have no problem using this as a starter machine.

The PQ1500SL comes with a 12 x 18” extension table to accommodate big cuts of fabric. It includes a 4-feed dog setting that will let users sew almost any kind of fabric, and also allows free-motion quilting. Other features include an automatic thread trimmer, needle threader, and needle positioner.

Pros:

quite

high sewing speed

plenty of working space

Cons:

thread tension can be tricky

thread cutter can trim too short

heavy

Best Serger Sewing Machine

Juki MO644D

The Juki MO644D serger machine has no problem sewing seven types of stitches using up to four threads. A multi-purpose presser food comes with the machine, and is able to handle elastic or tape.

    Other notable features include adjustable stitch length and width, color-coded threading guide, automatic rolled hemming, dial-adjusted thread tension, and a built-in heavy-duty fabric knife.

The MO644D is quite simple to use that even a child over 12 who already knows about basic sewing can operate it. The durability and features that the machine offers are perhaps what makes it the most dependable in its category.

Pros:

easy to thread

good for inexperienced in sergers

color-coded thread guide

Cons:

no free arm

no on board accessory storage

stitch length adjustment difficult to reach

Best Embroidery Sewing Machine

Brother SE1800

The Brother SE1800 may be pricier than other embroidery sewing machines around, but it does offer the capability of being used as both an embroidery and sewing.

    It boasts a total of 184 stiches, along with six fonts, 10 one-step buttonholes, and 136 embroidery designs. Additional accessories include 11 presser feet and a 5 x 7” embroidery field.

The stiches that come out of the SE1800 are first-rate, and sewing can be done in any direction or angle. New embroidery designs are downloadable, and new designs can be created by the user.

Pros:

LCD touchscreen display

850 stitches per minute

additional designs may be added

Cons:

built-in embroidery designs are not that impressive

pricey

screen may be difficult to read

Best Sewing Machine for Heavy Fabric

Janome HD3000

When venturing into the world of heavy fabric sewing, Janome HD3000 is the perfect companion with its helpful instructional guide that could make an expert out of any beginner.

  It has a built-in needle threader and cutter that eliminates the need of having to thread the needles manually and makes it painless to switch threads.

The Janome HD300 is made with aluminum, and is equipped with space to keep items and accessories. It comes with 21 built-in stitches, a stitch width and length adjustment, a one-step buttonhole, and a hard cover case.

Pros:

sturdy

easy needle threading

stiches can be locked with one touch

Cons:

not computerized

sewing light may be dim

not compact

Best Sewing Machine for Upholstery Work

Janome HD1000

The Janome HD1000 is a mechanical, professional-grade sewing machine that is designed with user-friendly options like 14 built-in stiches, automatic needle-threader, 4-step buttonhole, and 4 presser feet.

    It is still fairly easy and straightforward to use, and may be tried out by beginners. It can handle heavy fabrics, making it ideal to use for upholstery work.

Pros:

good stitch quality

can be used by beginners

has enough motor power to handle heavy fabrics

Cons:

no decorative stitches

no drop-in bobbin

some may have to adjust to mechanical sewing

Best Sewing Machine for Leather

Singer 4411

The Singer 4411 is designed for heavy-duty use and can take sewing projects for hours on end.

    It is also a mechanical high-speed machine that makes quick work of extensive projects. Over 1000 stiches can be produced per minute, and it can work with heavy fabrics such as leather, provided the correct needle is used. The 4411 is simple to operate and is even used in sewing classes. It is highly durable with its metal interior and formidable steel bed plate and motors.

Pros:

strong motor

quality stitches

adjustable speed

Cons:

can be loud

few built-in stitches

fast sewing speed may intimidate beginners

Best Sewing Machine for Kids

Brother XL2610

The color and cute form of the Brother XL2610 make it a favorite among kids wanting to learn how to sew. The machine has 25 built-in stiches, an automatic button-holer, and free arm. The automatic threader and thread cutter makes it easier for kids to use. It is also easy to carry around since it weighs just 11 lbs.

The XL2610 delivers quality stiches that will surely make young ones feel proud. No other sewing machine is as fast and better than this model at its price range. It is great as an entry-point sewing machine for just about anyone.

Pros:.

lightweight

free arm

25 built-in stitches

Cons:

should be oiled regularly

no very slow speed option

can be hard to set up

The post Best Sewing Machines appeared first on selectsewingmachine.

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Best Embroidery Machines

Embroidery machines today make it easy to recreate beautiful needlework that were once painstakingly created solely by hands. Sewing beautiful quilts with complicated designs or patterns will also be effortless with the help of these machines. Even jumpstarting an embroidery business has become less complicated with many affordable and capable embroidery machines today. These are some reasons why embroidery has recently become more popular and why more sewers are deciding to invest on embroidery machines.

Things to Consider Before Buying an Embroidery Machine

Many machines offer both sewing and embroidery options. For those new to the sewing world, it would be a better decision to choose a machine that will allow basic sewing, in addition to embroidery functions. Those who already own a sewing machine or are in the embroidery business will obviously be better off just buying an embroidery-only machine since these tend to be cheaper.

Novice and experts alike will want machines that are easy to use and offer a number of convenient features. This will cut down sewing time and will prove to be more efficient especially for those in the embroidery business. It is important to carefully compare features between models because there are a lot of options in the market now, and one doesn’t need to settle with a machine that doesn’t offer the desired features. If budget is an issue, then it would be wise to choose a machine that comes equipped with features that are sufficient enough to complete the embroidery project.

Another consideration is the embroidery area that comes with the machine. More expensive machines tend to have bigger work areas, so if a smaller or standard one will do, then perhaps that would be the better choice.

The last feature to consider is the editing capability of an embroidery machine. Modern machines are now equipped with editing software that make editing painless. Many handy features come with these machines like resizing, repositioning, rotating, and a lot more. It would certainly save a great deal of time to simply input the design and let the machine do the work.

Best Home Embroidery Machine

Brother PE770

The Brother PE770 is a great embroidery machine to have for the home or for a small embroidery business. It is easy to use even for those just beginning to learn embroidery. The machine comes with a large embroidery area that provides plenty of space to work with large projects, without having the need to rehoop constantly.

  It also includes a hoop, and allows multi-hooping to expand the embroidery area. A total of 136 built-in designs are provided, but there is a supplied USB slot which allows users to upload their own designs. The LCD display makes it easy to view and edit the designs.

The PE770 is compatible with iBroidery, making it easy to purchase additional exclusive and licensed designs. There are also built-in lettering fonts in the machine that can be used for monogramming. Other features that will make embroidery effortless include an auto thread cutter, auto needle threader, and quick-set bobbin.

Pros:

value for money

auto thread cutter and needle threader

compatible with iBroidery

Cons:

displays only in black and white

regular machine servicing needed

cannot upload addition fonts

Best Sewing and Embroidery Machine

Brother SE400

The Brother SE400 is perfect for those who want more versatility in their embroidery machine. It is a sewing, embroidery, and quilting machine in one that surprisingly, doesn’t come with a hefty price tag.

  The SE400 already comes with 67 built-in stitches, 70 embroidery designs, 120 frame patterns, and 5 lettering fonts. If those are not enough, there is an option to browse through thousands of designs from the PC and upload them to the machine.

The SE400 is a wonderful choice for both beginners and experienced alike. It is user-friendly and offers a lot of options without being too overwhelming. The LCD display allows users to access tutorials and edit designs. A 4 x 4” working area is provided, and while it might be smaller compared to some machines, it is enough to get most projects done. Other notable features include an automatic needle threader, 7-point feed dogs, and a bobbin-winding system.

Pros:

can import designs from PC

portable

easy and fast bobbin loading

Cons:

not for heavy fabrics

work area might be too small for some

included needles break easily

Best Commercial Embroidery Machine

Janome MB-4N

The Janome MB-4N is a 4-needle embroidery machine that is ideal for those who want to venture into the commercial embroidery business.

  It may not have the capabilities of most industrial embroidery machines, but it is more affordable and ideal for those just starting out.

The MB-4N can store up to 10 different types of threads, and uses a touchscreen display to input settings and edit design. An automatic thread cutter and sensors on the presser foot and upper thread makes embroidering easier and more efficient. There are 100 built-in designs, including fonts for monogramming, with an option to upload more designs. A time indicator is also a nice addition, making it possible to determine how many projects may be accommodated in a given time frame.

Pros:

can upload more designs

automatic thread cutter

compatible with many hoop sizes

Cons:

no sewing capabilities

price is not for hobbyists

needs regular servicing

Best Embroidery Machine for Beginners

Brother PE500

The Brother PE500 is the best choice for beginners wanting start out with embroidery projects without being overwhelmed by countless options and features. This machine is ready to use right out of the box, and comes with a starter kit that would help beginners get started right away. There are a total of 70 built-in embroidery designs, as well as 5 lettering fonts. The tutorials installed into the machine will also be of great help to those feeling lost during the first few embroidering sessions.

The PE500’s embroidery area might not be too big as those found in other models, but it is the standard size and will be just right for the less experienced sewers. An improvement from other Brother machines is the bobbin winder for this model. It is now smoother and will be less of a hassle for the embroidery beginners.

Pros:

USB port available

scratch-free surface

value for money

Cons:

no sewing capabilities

can be noisy

embroidery area not for big projects

Best Embroidery Machine for $500 – $800

Janome Memory Craft 200E

The Janome Memory Craft 200E is a professional-grade machine that makes embroidery projects effortless and efficient. Equipped with an advanced needle threader, easy set bobbin, automatic thread cutter, bobbin thread sensor, and bobbin winding plate with cutter, even extensive embroidery projects can be finished in no time at all.

  Memory Craft 200E’s 160 built-in embroidery designs and 6 monogramming fonts will make every embroidery project look as it they was crafted by an expert.

Editing with the Memory Craft 200E is also a breeze as the machine offers functions like, rotate, enlarge and reduce, flip, drag and drop, zoom, and so much more. A USB port is also included, making it possible to import design. The machine itself has a solid design and ample embroidery workspace.

Pros:

easy control options

editing is quick and easy

USB port

Cons:

expensive for casual embroidery

can be loud

practice is needed to master digital features

Best Embroidery Machine for $800 – $1000

Singer Futura XL-550

Another first-class professional-grade embroidery machine in the market is the Singer Futura XL-550. It is a sewing machine and embroidery machine in one, making investing in it worthwhile. The most noticeable thing about this machine is perhaps its large embroidery area measuring 18.5 x 11” and the capability to multihoop.

  This is wonderful for those looking to complete big embroidery projects, or even quilting projects. The machine is also fitted with handy features like an automatic thread cutter, automatic needle threader, and independent bobbin winding system. A total of 250 built-in designs and 125 sewing stitches make the price tag for this machine even more justifiable.

Pros:

bright LEDs for the work area

large embroidery area

USB port

Cons:

may take time to master

threads have a tendency to become tangled

some shipped products are faulty

Best Embroidery Machine for $1000+

Janome Memory Craft 350E

The Janome Memory Craft 350E is among the higher-end models of home embroidery machines, but it comes loaded with features that can be used to start an embroidery business. Built-in designs are only 100, but a USB port makes uploading more designs possible. The Memory Craft 350E is also sturdy and has a scratch-resistant and easy-to-clean surface.

  Although this machine is for embroidery projects only, it is fully computerized and comes with a backlit LCD touchscreen. Selecting and editing designs are easy with just a swipe and few taps on the screen. Other valuable features of this model are a sewing speed of 650 stitches per minute, built-in needle threader, and a top-loading full rotary hook bobbin.

Pros:

simple interface for designs

fast stitching speed

simplified controls

Cons:

low bobbin

computerized machine may be confusing for beginners

center of the hoop and the screen don’t align

Best Industrial Embroidery Machine

CAMFive CFHS-CT1508

The CAMFive CFHS-CT1508 is a good investment for those into the embroidery business.

  This machine comes with 10H heads, 15 needles, a touchscreen display, thread stopper, and an automatic thread cutter. The CFHS-CT1508 offers will free installation, and training will be provided by technicians. There will be continued after-sales support, making it less troublesome in case there are questions or issues about the machine. Repairs will also be provided by CAMFive in case of future problems.

The CFHS-CT1508 is fitted with high-speed motors that can complete up to 1000 revolutions per minute, completing embroidery projects in no time. An internal disk helps the machine function efficiently without the unwanted noise found in other machines.

Pros:

high speed

free installation and training

noise reduction feature

Cons:

pricey

technicians need for repair

employees need to be trained too

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