The best embroidery machine for beginners is not just about price or brand. It’s about finding the right partner for your creative journey. Since we have a long history in embroidery and digitizing, we know exactly where beginners struggle and which machines actually make the process easier. That’s why in this guide, we’re sharing our honest recommendations and covering budget-friendly picks.
If you want to save time, avoid common mistakes, and confidently choose the right machine, then keep reading. This article is written just for you.
The 10 Best Embroidery Machine for Beginners
What Beginners Should Check Before Buying an Embroidery Machine?
Buying your first embroidery machine is exciting, but if you choose without knowing the basics, you may regret it later. Here are the most important things every beginner should look at before purchasing:
Embroidery-Only or Sewing + Embroidery Combo?
Another big decision is whether to buy an embroidery-only machine or a combination machine that also does sewing. An embroidery-only model is focused and usually easier to use, which is great if you already own a separate sewing machine.
But if you don’t have a sewing machine and you think you might need one, then a combination machine can save both money and space.
Think about your future plans: “Do I just want to do embroidery, or do I also see myself sewing clothes and doing other projects?”
Hoop Size: Will It Be Big Enough for Your Ideas?
One of the first things you should check is the hoop size. Many budget machines come with a 4×4 hoop, and while this is fine for tiny names or logos, most beginners quickly feel stuck because the space is too small.
If you plan to stitch larger designs, lettering, or even patches, a 5×7 hoop gives you much more freedom. That’s why most experienced embroiderers recommend starting with at least a 5×7 hoop; you won’t outgrow it as fast.
Budget Reality: Am I Ready for Extra Costs?
It’s easy to look only at the machine’s price tag, but embroidery has extra costs that beginners often forget. Apart from the machine itself, you’ll need stabilizers, needles, threads, bobbins, and sometimes digitizing software or paid designs.
These small items add up, and if you’re not ready, you might feel frustrated later. That’s why it’s important to plan your budget not just for the machine but for the starter supplies too.
Beginner-Friendly Features: What Makes Learning Easier?
Not all features are necessary, but some can make your beginner journey much smoother. For example, an automatic needle threader can save your eyes and reduce frustration. Jump-stitch trimming keeps your designs clean and saves you from constantly cutting threads.
In 2025, many machines also offer Wi-Fi transfer and apps like Brother’s Artspira, which make it easy to send designs straight from your phone without USB sticks. Instead of chasing every feature, think about the ones that will reduce stress and make embroidery enjoyable.
Buying Place: Do I Need Support or Just the Machine?
Finally, think carefully about where you will buy your machine. Local dealers often charge more, but they also give you training, warranty support, and sometimes free classes. If you’re someone who learns better with personal help, this can be worth the price.
Buying online is usually cheaper, but you’ll need to depend on YouTube tutorials, blogs, and online communities if you face problems. Used machines can be tempting because of the lower price, but they carry risks like missing parts or hidden issues.
Best Embroidery Machine for Beginners | Our Picks
These are the machines that we personally recommend after careful review. Each one has its own strengths, and depending on your budget and project needs, you can confidently choose any of them.
- Brother PE535 Embroidery Machine
- Brother SE600 Combination Sewing and Embroidery Machine
- Janome Memory Craft 400E Embroidery Machine
- Brother SE1900 Combination Sewing and Embroidery Machine
- Brother PE800 Embroidery Machine
- Brother NQ1700E Embroidery Machine
- Brother PE900 Embroidery Machine
- Innov-is F540E Embroidery Machine
- Innov-is M380D Disney Sewing, Quilting and Embroidery Machine
- Brother NQ3550 Embroidery Machine
1. Brother PE535 Embroidery Machine
It is one of the most beginner-friendly embroidery machines you can start with. It comes with a 4” x 4” embroidery area, which is just right for small projects like monograms, patches, baby clothes, and personalized gifts.
Its 3.2-inch full-color touchscreen allows you to preview and edit designs before stitching, which helps beginners avoid mistakes and feel confident while working.
The machine already includes 80 embroidery designs and 9 font styles so you can start creating immediately, and with the USB port you can easily import custom designs whenever you want more variety.
For someone new to embroidery, the Brother PE535 makes the whole process simple and stress-free. The automatic needle threader, built-in tutorials, and drop-in bobbin system save time and frustration, while the lightweight, compact design makes it easy to set up even in a small space.
Everything about this machine is made to give beginners a smooth learning experience while still leaving space to grow creatively.
Pricing Range:
Pricing for the Brother PE535 is usually around $500 to $520, which makes it an affordable choice for anyone who wants to focus only on embroidery without spending too much.
Pros:
- Very user-friendly with on-screen tutorials
- Includes 80 built-in designs and 9 fonts to start immediately
- USB port allows unlimited design importing
- Automatic needle threader makes setup easy
- Lightweight and compact, easy to move and store
Cons:
- Limited 4” x 4” embroidery area may feel small as you progress
- Embroidery-only, no sewing function
- Single-needle requires manual thread changes for multi-color designs
- Not suitable for high-volume or commercial-level projects
2. Brother SE600 Combination Sewing and Embroidery Machine
It is often considered one of the best embroidery machine for beginners who also want the flexibility of sewing. It offers a 4” x 4” embroidery area that works well for monograms, patches, and decorative projects, while also giving you 103 built-in sewing stitches for clothing, quilting, and everyday repairs.
Its 3.2-inch full-color touchscreen makes it easy to preview and edit embroidery designs before stitching, so even a first-time user can customize projects with confidence.
With 80 built-in embroidery designs, 9 fonts, and USB connectivity for importing custom files, beginners can enjoy endless creativity.
Helpful features like automatic needle threading, push-button thread cutting, bright LED lighting, and a spacious sewing area make the SE600 both practical and beginner-friendly.
Pricing Range
The Brother SE600 usually costs between $650 and $750, making it an affordable 2-in-1 option for anyone starting out with sewing and embroidery together.
Pros
- Combines sewing and embroidery in one machine
- User-friendly touchscreen for editing and previewing designs
- Spacious sewing area, great for quilting and larger fabrics
- Comes with 80 embroidery designs and 103 sewing stitches
- Automatic needle threading and thread cutting save time
- USB port allows easy design importing
Cons
- 4” x 4” embroidery area can be restrictive for larger projects
- Moderate embroidery speed, not suitable for heavy production
- Fewer advanced editing tools compared to higher-end models
- Bulkier than embroidery-only machines
3. Janome Memory Craft 400E Embroidery Machine
It Memory Craft 400E is considered one of the best embroidery machine for home based business because of its large embroidery field and professional-grade features. With a spacious 7.9” x 7.9” embroidery area, it allows you to work on bigger designs like home décor, jackets, and detailed accessories that smaller machines simply can’t handle.
It comes with 160 built-in embroidery designs and 6 fonts for monogramming, including options for two- and three-letter monograms, giving you plenty of creative flexibility right out of the box.
The full-color LCD touchscreen makes it easy to preview, resize, rotate, flip, and even combine designs directly on the machine, while the USB port lets you import endless designs in .jef format from your computer.
This model also offers adjustable embroidery speed up to 860 stitches per minute, programmable jump thread trimming for cleaner results, and advanced features like a bobbin thread sensor, automatic needle threader, and thread cutter, all designed to make your workflow smooth and efficient.
Its included wide table and SQ20b hoop make handling larger projects more comfortable, which is especially useful for small business owners who want consistent results on bulk orders.
Pricing Range
The Janome Memory Craft 400E usually falls between $2,199 and $2,399, placing it in the premium category. While it costs more than beginner machines, it provides the advanced capabilities needed for a serious home-based embroidery business.
Pros
- Large 7.9” x 7.9” embroidery area handles bigger projects with ease
- 160 built-in designs and 6 fonts for versatile creativity
- Strong on-screen editing tools for resizing, combining, and customizing designs
- Adjustable embroidery speed for better precision and time management
- Wide extension table and included accessories support larger projects
- Trusted brand with reliable customer service and durability
Cons
- Higher price than most beginner-level machines
- Embroidery-only, does not include sewing functions
- Larger size requires more dedicated workspace
- Learning curve can be steeper for absolute beginners
4. Brother SE1900 Combination Sewing and Embroidery Machine
It is a popular choice for those who want both sewing and embroidery in a single, reliable machine.
For anyone searching for a cheap home embroidery machine for hats, this model offers excellent versatility without the high price tag of commercial machines.
With a generous 5” x 7” embroidery field, it allows users to create larger and more detailed designs compared to entry-level models.
The 3.2-inch full-color LCD touchscreen makes it simple to preview, combine, and edit designs directly on the machine, giving beginners and hobbyists full control without the need for complicated software.
It comes pre-loaded with 138 embroidery designs and 11 font styles, while the USB port makes it easy to import custom .pes files for endless creative options. On the sewing side, it offers 240 built-in stitches, including 10 auto-size buttonholes, plus the ability to create your own stitches using the My Custom Stitch™ feature.
The machine also includes 8 presser feet to handle a variety of sewing tasks, from quilting to garment making. With an advanced needle threading system, quick-set bobbin, adjustable presser foot pressure, and bright LED lighting, the SE1900 is designed to reduce frustration and give a smooth sewing and embroidery experience.
Its maximum speed of 850 stitches per minute ensures efficiency, while its compact and sturdy build makes it a durable option for long-term use.
Pricing Range
The Brother SE1900 usually retails between $900 and $1,100, placing it in the mid-range category. It’s ideal for users who want more space and features than beginner models, without moving into the high-cost professional range.
Pros
- Large 5” x 7” embroidery field for bigger projects
- Combination of sewing and embroidery saves space and cost
- 138 embroidery designs and 240 sewing stitches expand creativity
- Easy-to-use touchscreen with editing and preview functions
- Faster stitching speed for efficient project completion
- Includes multiple presser feet for versatile sewing tasks
- Advanced needle threading and drop-in bobbin improve usability
Cons
- Heavier and bulkier than compact beginner machines
- 5” x 7” area may still be limiting for very large projects
- Lacks some advanced features found in higher-end professional machines
- Learning curve can be steep for complete beginners
5. Brother PE800 Embroidery Machine
It is a dedicated embroidery-only machine designed for home users who want simplicity paired with advanced features. With its generous 5” x 7” embroidery area, it gives you enough space to create detailed and professional-looking designs on garments, home décor, and personalized gifts.
The 3.2-inch full-color LCD touchscreen makes it easy to preview and edit your patterns directly on the machine, so you can make adjustments without needing a computer.
It comes with 138 built-in embroidery designs, 11 fonts for lettering, and 10 frame shapes, offering plenty of creative possibilities right from the start.
For even more flexibility, the USB port allows you to import your own designs in .pes format. Features like the automatic needle threader, thread cutter, quick-set bobbin, and bright LED lighting all work together to give beginners a smooth, frustration-free embroidery experience.
Pricing Range
The Brother PE800 usually retails between $900 and $1,000, making it a solid mid-range option. It costs more than entry-level models but offers the larger hoop size and advanced editing functions that many beginners and hobbyists quickly grow to appreciate.
Pros
- Spacious 5” x 7” embroidery area for larger, detailed designs
- Color touchscreen with built-in editing and preview tools
- Automatic needle threading and thread cutting save time
- Wide variety of built-in designs, fonts, and frame shapes
- USB connectivity expands design possibilities
- Strong, durable build backed by a 25-year limited warranty
Cons
- Embroidery-only machine, no sewing functions included
- Moderate embroidery speed compared to newer models
- Limited to 5” x 7” hoop size, not ideal for oversized projects
- Higher price compared to smaller beginner-friendly machines
6. Brother NQ1700E Embroidery Machine
It also known as The Fashion Creator 2, is considered one of the best embroidery machine for beginners who want room to grow and explore advanced projects. With its spacious 6” x 10” embroidery field, it allows you to take on larger, more detailed designs that smaller machines can’t handle.
The bright 4.85-inch color LCD touchscreen gives you complete control with on-screen editing options like resizing, rotating, repositioning, combining, and even drag-and-drop features, making customization easy even for new users.
This machine comes loaded with 258 built-in embroidery designs, 140 frame pattern combinations, and 13 fonts, giving beginners endless creative possibilities right out of the box. What makes the NQ1700E even more user-friendly is its wireless capability, which lets you transfer designs directly from your PC to the machine without needing a USB drive.
Add to that automatic thread cutting, advanced trimming functions, and a brightly lit workspace, and you get a machine designed to save time and make embroidery more enjoyable. The generous 8.3” needle-to-arm space also means you can work comfortably with bigger fabrics and more complex layouts.
Pricing Range
The Brother NQ1700E is priced between $2,700 and $2,900, making it a high-end option. While it is more expensive than basic beginner models, it provides the advanced features and larger embroidery area that many beginners eventually look for as they grow their skills.
Pros
- Very large 6” x 10” embroidery field for advanced projects
- Wireless connectivity makes transferring designs easy
- Over 250 designs, 140 frames, and 13 fonts built-in
- Large touchscreen with powerful on-screen editing tools
- High embroidery speed for faster project completion
- Spacious work area with bright LED lighting
- Comes with frames, foot, and accessory package
Cons
- Higher price may not fit every beginner’s budget
- Embroidery-only, no sewing functions included
- Large size requires more dedicated workspace
- Some features may take time for beginners to fully master
7. Brother PE900 Embroidery Machine
It is a modern embroidery-only machine built for users who want an advanced yet easy experience at home. It comes with a 5” x 7” embroidery area, giving plenty of space for medium-sized projects like monograms, home décor, and custom apparel.
The sharp 3.7-inch full-color LCD touchscreen makes it simple to preview and edit your designs directly on the machine, with options to resize, rotate, reposition, or even combine patterns before stitching.
With 193 built-in embroidery designs and 13 fonts, including English, Japanese, and Cyrillic, the PE900 offers a wide variety of creative options without needing to buy extras right away.
What makes this machine stand out is its wireless LAN capability, allowing you to transfer designs from your computer or mobile device without a USB stick. It also integrates with the Brother Artspira app, where you can download patterns, create custom designs, and even use the stitch simulator to preview how your project will look before stitching.
Useful features like jump stitch trimming, color sort, automatic needle threading, and thread cutting all help save time and make embroidery smoother. The spacious 7.4” needle-to-arm workspace makes it easier to handle bigger fabrics and position designs comfortably.
Pricing Range
The Brother PE900 typically sells for around $1,000 to $1,100, making it a mid-range option that balances advanced technology with affordability for home users.
Pros
- 5” x 7” embroidery area suitable for a wide variety of projects
- 193 built-in designs and 13 fonts provide creative flexibility
- Wireless connectivity makes transferring designs effortless
- Works with the Artspira mobile app for design creation and downloads
- Automatic needle threading, thread cutting, and jump stitch trimming save time
- Spacious needle-to-arm area for easier fabric handling
Cons
- Embroidery-only, with no sewing capability
- Moderate stitching speed compared to higher-end models
- Requires some time to learn wireless and app functions
- Limited to a maximum 5” x 7” hoop size, not ideal for very large designs
8. Innov-is F540E Embroidery Machine
It is a modern embroidery-only machine built to give both beginners and hobbyists a smooth, high-quality embroidery experience.
It comes with a 7” x 5” embroidery area, which is spacious enough for detailed and medium-to-large projects like personalized garments, decorative pieces, and gifts.
The 3.7-inch color LCD touchscreen makes it easy to navigate, preview, and edit your designs directly on the machine.
With 193 built-in embroidery designs and 13 fonts, you can get creative right away, and if that’s not enough, you can easily import more designs through wireless LAN or USB connectivity.
This machine is designed to save time and reduce frustration with features like automatic needle threading, automatic thread cutting, jump stitch trimming, and color sorting. Its stitching speed of up to 650 stitches per minute helps complete projects faster, while thread sensors ensure you’re alerted in case of breakage or low thread.
Beginners also appreciate the bright LED lighting and quick-set top-loading bobbin system, which make setup simple and the workspace clear. With a solid build, included accessories like frames and an embroidery foot, plus a soft case for storage, the Innov-is F540E balances convenience with durability.
Pricing Range
The Brother Innov-is F540E generally sells for around $1,100 to $1,300, making it a mid-range option that offers advanced features at a fair price for hobbyists and small business users.
Pros
- 7” x 5” embroidery area allows larger, detailed designs
- Wireless LAN and USB for quick and easy design transfer
- Intuitive color touchscreen for editing and preview
- High stitching speed improves efficiency
- Automatic needle threading and thread cutting reduce setup time
- 193 built-in designs and 13 fonts provide creative variety
- Thread sensors help minimize stitching errors
- Compact yet durable design with included accessories
Cons
- Embroidery-only machine with no sewing functions
- Price is higher compared to basic beginner machines
- Advanced features may require some learning time
- Single-needle machine, so multi-color designs need manual thread changes
9. Innov-is M380D Disney Sewing, Quilting and Embroidery Machine
It is a fun and versatile all-in-one machine that combines sewing, quilting, and embroidery into a single compact design.
What makes it stand out is the collection of exclusive Disney and Pixar embroidery patterns that come preloaded, making it especially appealing for families and crafters who want to personalize projects with beloved characters.
With a 4” x 4” embroidery area, it’s well-suited for small to medium projects like kids’ clothes, home décor accents, and personalized gifts.
The 3.7-inch full-color LCD touchscreen makes it easy to select stitches, preview embroidery, and even edit designs directly on the machine.
In addition to embroidery, it offers 181 built-in sewing stitches, including decorative options and 10 one-step buttonholes, which makes it flexible for everyday sewing and quilting projects. It includes 200 embroidery designs in total, with 65 Disney-themed options, plus 11 fonts for creative lettering.
Wireless LAN and USB connectivity make importing and sharing designs simple, while convenient features like the automatic needle threader, thread cutter, LED lighting, and drop-in bobbin system make the machine user-friendly and efficient.
The package also includes 8 presser feet, making it ready for a variety of tasks right out of the box.
Pricing Range
The Brother Innov-is M380D usually ranges from $1,450 to $1,680, offering a premium mix of sewing, quilting, and embroidery functions along with the added value of Disney-themed designs.
Pros
- Combines sewing, quilting, and embroidery in one machine
- Includes 65 exclusive Disney and Pixar embroidery designs
- Easy-to-use touchscreen with strong editing tools
- Wireless LAN and USB connectivity for quick design transfers
- Wide selection of built-in stitches and embroidery fonts
- High sewing speed with automatic threading and cutting
- Backed by a solid Brother warranty for peace of mind
Cons
- 4” x 4” embroidery field can feel limiting for larger designs
- Single-needle setup requires manual thread changes for multi-color embroidery
- Priced higher than basic combination machines
- Learning curve for beginners to fully explore all advanced features
10. Brother NQ3550 Embroidery Machine
NQ3550 stands out as one of the best embroidery machine for beginner users who want a combination of sewing and embroidery features in one powerful device. With its large 6” x 10” embroidery area, it allows even first-time embroiderers to work confidently on bigger projects like quilts, home décor, or personalized garments without feeling restricted by hoop size. The 3.67-inch color LCD touchscreen is bright and intuitive, giving beginners the ability to preview, drag and drop, resize, rotate, and combine designs directly on the machine, making creative editing simple and approachable.
For those just starting out, the built-in library of 258 embroidery designs, 140 frame combinations, and 13 fonts ensures plenty of ready-to-use options. On the sewing side, 291 built-in stitches, 10 one-step buttonholes, and the My Custom Stitch feature provide room to explore decorative and utility projects.
The wireless LAN capability is a huge plus; it lets beginners transfer designs from a computer or mobile device without the hassle of USB drives. Automatic features like advanced needle threading, thread cutting, color sorting, and the automatic height adjuster help reduce mistakes and make learning smoother.
Pricing Range
The Brother NQ3550 is usually priced between $2,400 and $2,700, positioning it in the higher-end range. While it costs more than entry-level machines, it gives beginners advanced features and a workspace that can grow with them over time.
Pros
- Large 6” x 10” embroidery area, ideal for more ambitious projects
- 258 embroidery designs and 291 sewing stitches provide variety and creativity
- Wireless LAN makes design transfer quick and easy
- User-friendly touchscreen with powerful editing options
- Automatic features simplify setup and reduce errors
- Solid build quality and long warranty coverage
- Comes with multiple hoops, presser feet, and accessories
Cons
- Higher cost may be challenging for tight budgets
- Larger size and heavier weight require a dedicated space
- As a combination machine, it may not include every advanced embroidery-only feature
- Beginners may need some time to fully explore its extensive functions
Conclusion
We’ve now walked through features, pros, cons, and pricing of some of the best embroidery machine for beginners, covering different budgets and project needs. Still, before you finally purchase, there are a few important things to keep in mind.
Reading top embroidery machine reviews on platforms like Reddit can help you see what real users are saying. You can also talk to sewing experts or even ask us to suggest a single option according to your budget if you feel confused by so many choices.
Exploring feedback and comparing models from different home embroidery machine manufacturers will give you a clearer picture of which machine really fits your goals.
Remember, purchasing the machine is only the first step. As a beginner, you’ll quickly realize that embroidery digitizing is another challenge that can feel overwhelming.
That’s where Zdigitizing becomes your partner; we provide high-quality, affordable digitizing services with superfast turnaround. So while you focus on learning your new machine, we take care of the tough digitizing part for you. And if this is your first order, you’ll get 50% OFF, giving you the chance to test our quality at half the price.
So, CONTACT US TODAY to get your first design digitized at half the price and experience guaranteed quality with Zdigitizing.
So, if you like it, we’d love to hear from you. Drop a comment below and share which machine you’re considering or what challenges you’re facing as a beginner.
FAQs
No, embroidery machines are designed to make the process much easier. With built-in designs, automatic threading, and tutorials, beginners can start simple projects quickly and learn step by step.
Choose based on your budget, hoop size, and project goals. Reading reviews, comparing features, and checking real user experiences will help you pick the right fit.
On average, professional embroidery costs range from $1 to $4 per 1,000 stitches, depending on design complexity, fabric type, and service provider. But at ZDigitizing, we offer flat rates not rates perr stitches.
Yes, the Brother PE800 is beginner friendly thanks to its large color touchscreen, easy editing options, automatic needle threader, and straightforward setup process.
Beginners usually spend between $400 and $1,000 for a reliable starter machine. For larger projects or home business use, expect to invest $1,500 or more.
Not always. Most machines come with built-in designs, but using a computer lets you import, edit, and create custom patterns for more creative freedom.
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