Starting a home embroidery business is the perfect way to express your creativity and make extra cash.
Embroidery designs and monograms have become popular over the years and they are not going away, any time soon. Many seem to enjoy this type of decoration and customization of clothing, hats or bags.
However, to start your own embroidery business, you will need a highly durable embroidery machine.
Contents
- How Much Does It Cost To Start An Embroidery Business?
- Best Embroidery Machines for Home Business 2020 - Comparison Chart 2020
- Best Embroidery Machines for Home Business Reviews 2020
- Janome MC 14000 Embroidery Machine
- Janome MB-4S Embroidery Machine
- Janome Horizon MC 9900 Embroidery Machine
- Brother SE1900 Embroidery Machine
- SINGER Futura XL-550 Embroidery Machine
- Brother PE770 Embroidery Machine
- Janome MC 12000 Embroidery Machine
- Brother SE1800 Embroidery Machine
- CAMFive CFSE-DM1501 Embroidery Machine
- SINGER Futura XL 400 Embroidery Machine
- EverSewn Sparrow X Embroidery Machine
- CAMFive EMB HT 1501 Single Head Embroidery Machine
- CAMFive CFHS-CT1502 2 Heads Embroidery Machine
- CAMFive CFHS 1506 6 Heads Embroidery Machine
- CAMFive CFHS-CT1508 8 Heads Embroidery Machine
- How Much Does A Good Embroidery Machine Cost?
- FAQ
- Final Verdict
How Much Does It Cost To Start An Embroidery Business?
First and foremost, you should know that the most expensive tool you will need to start your personal business is the embroidery machine. On average, an embroidery machine for home use and opening a business costs between $400 – $10,000. Meaning, you will need a decent budget to get things started.
However, if you are a beginner with no experience at all, we suggest that you avoid the expensive ones and purchase something more budget-friendly and suitable for your level of skills. A low budget machine will help you develop your skills. And once you feel like your skills improved, buy an advanced machine.
See also:
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- Top 40 Best Sewing Books Reviews (Expert Recommended)
- 17 Best Sewing Machine for Advanced Sewers
- Top 30 Best Long Arm Quilting Machine Reviews
- 20 Best Mini Sewing Machine Reviews (Recommended)
- Best Sewing Machine For Denim Reviews - You Need To Read Before You Buy
- Top 30 Best Portable Sewing Machine Reviews
Considering the fact that we live in a digital era, it is smart to invest in a quality automatic, computerized and digital sewing and embroidery machine. Many customers require designs that can be a nightmare to make. However, having a computerized machine with embroidery software will make things a lot easier.
You will be able to create advanced designs and transfer them to your machine through the card reader or USB. Having a computerized machine is important for home-based businesses since customers expect you to be able to make custom designs. Besides an embroidery machine, you will also have to purchase:
- Software
- Digitizer
- Stabilizers
- Special hoops
- Thread
- Fabrics
- Needles
Once you make all the calculations, you will realize that buying an embroidery machine is not your only concern when starting a home embroidery business. This is why we suggest that you set a budget for all these things up front. Now: let’s break it down for you and reveal what do you need to start a business.
Firstly, think futuristically: create a business plan that contains an expansion plan. Also, when planning out your business moves, do not forget to include advertising. If you want to compete with the giants, it is important to find a way to put customers’ attention to your work and introduce yourself – effectively.
If you do not know how to do this, contact a marketing expert. Do not forget to put your best creations and masterpieces online. Being present online and putting yourself out there is crucial for your business to succeed in the digital era. Gain popularity. Provide great service. Show people that you are passionate about what you do and your embroidery business will bloom slowly but surely – great things take time!
Extra tip: Instead of initiating a battle with every manufacturer, determine your most favorable niche and invest your time and passion into exceeding everyone’s embroidery expectations! Create something fresh, new and unique. Ask your creativity for some help and trust that you were born for this business.
Best Embroidery Machines for Home Business 2020 - Comparison Chart 2020
Review how the best products compared to one each other– check every detail before you make your purchase. After scroll down and read our detailed review of every model in the comparison chart 2020.
Best Embroidery Machines for Home Business Reviews 2020
Now that you know all the important factors you need to consider when starting your own embroidery business, let’s review the best embroidery machines for home business and help you pick the right one.
Janome MC 14000 Embroidery Machine
(Editor’s Choice)
If you want something that will take your skills and projects to the next level, Janome 14000 is the ideal embroidery machine for you. It does not matter if you are looking for the best embroidery machine for home business 2018 or 2020, this model by Janome will definitely meet your needs and requirements.
It has 350 built-in embroidery designs, 2 and 3 letters monogramming function, and 11 monogramming fonts you can choose from. If you decide to purchase this workhorse, you will get an expansive (9,1’’ x 11.8’’) hoop and maximum embroidery speed of 1,000 stitches per minute to finish large projects fast.
Besides that, you will also get 400 built-in stitches including 13 one-step buttonholes. Meaning, this is the perfect combo machine that you can both sew and embroider with. The full-color LCD touchscreen will allow you to make and edit embroidery designs with ease. Now: let’s note some of the downfalls.
Pros
- Stitch Composer program for creating stitches
- Free motion quilting with variable zig zag option
- AcuFeed Flex technology for precise control
- 350 embroidery designs and 400 built-in stitches
- Fully-computerized, free arm, and 91 needle positions
Cons
- Costly
Janome MB-4S Embroidery Machine
(Embroidery Machine with Multi-Needle)
Next on our list of best embroidery machines for a home business is Janome MB-4S with 4 needles that will help you complete any project fast and easy. It is the first industrial machine for home use with four needles, 50 built-in designs, 2 and 3 letters monogramming, 10 monogramming fonts and four hoops.
It has a maximum embroidery speed of 800 stitches per minute and a dedicated bobbin winding motor – something that you will probably not find in most high-tech machines. A single thread machine with an automatic needle threader that will save you time, energy and frustration. However, here’s the kicker:
It includes 3 MB of memory! Meaning, you can store over 100 embroidery designs, and up to 1,500,000 stitches. Now: let’s review the main pros and cons and decide if this is the embroidery machine for you.
Pros
- A lot of built-in designs
- A large memory capacity
- A high embroidery speed
- Portable and compact
Cons
- Costly
Janome Horizon MC 9900 Embroidery Machine
If you have been searching the market for a decent embroidery machine, you probably figured how hard it is to find something good. However, we are here to help you out pick the right product for you and we want to recommend – Janome Horizon Memory Craft 9900 Sewing and Embroidery Machine right away!
An easy to set up, a quiet and feature-rich model that you will absolutely love, no matter if you are a pro or a beginner. Some beginners have reported difficulties and claimed that it is too advanced, however, if you have the passion for this craft and you are ready to invest your time and money into learning how to use it, nothing can stop you from opening and developing successful home-based embroidery business.
If you decide to give this baby a shot, you will get 175 built-in embroidery designs and a beginner’s guide that will help you start. You will get free arm for embroidery, quilting or sewing a hem or a cuff as well. If you wonder about the lighting – it is great because of the 5 LED lamps. Now, let’s review the main cons.
Pros
- Super versatile
- Easy to set up
- Quiet operation
- Lightweight
- Compact
- Great lighting
Cons
- Costly
Brother SE1900 Embroidery Machine
(Best Value for Money)
Brother SE1900 – one of the most popular sewing and embroidery machines that will blow your mind with all the accessories and modern features. If you are new to the craft, you probably do not know that this is an upgrade of the SE1800 model. It is the perfect combo machine for sewing, quilting, and embroidery. Brother SE1900 are the best sewing and embroidery machine for small business
It comes with an expansive 5x7 embroidery table allowing you to complete any large project in mind. This workhorse comes with 11 fonts for monogramming, 138 built-in embroidery designs, 240 built-in sewing stitches and 10 frame shapes which is amazing. You will also get eight fast-change sewing feet.
However, the best part about this machine is the automatic needle threader. Now: let’s review all the important pros and cons you should take into consideration and decide if this is the machine for you!
Pros
- Side and horizontal stitching
- A large LCD color touchscreen
- A built-in USB port for easy access
- Feature-rich and super easy to use
- Perfect for home or small business
Cons
- Costly
SINGER Futura XL-550 Embroidery Machine
(Budget’s Pick)
If you want the best combo machine, you can never go wrong with Singer! They have one of the best sewing and embroidery machines on the market. And Futura XL-550 is one of them. It comes with 125 built-in embroidery designs, lots of automatic features and 215 built-in sewing stitches. That is not all.
If you decide to purchase this machine, you will also get a lit workspace, a user-friendly computerized model for inserting and editing embroidery designs. It comes with advanced software that allows you to choose, edit and use designs. You can also pick, scan and edit pictures thanks to the advanced software.
Pros
- Super versatile and easy to use
- Swift smart Threading System
- Compatible with design software
Cons
- No knee lifter included
Brother PE770 Embroidery Machine
If you want something simple but functional, PE770 by Brother is the perfect choice for you. No matter if you are looking for the best Brother embroidery machine for home business or just run onto this review, we can assure you that this is the model that you have been searching for – it will blow your mind away.
It comes with an expansive 5x7 embroidery working field, 136 built-in embroidery designs, 12 borders, and 10 frames. It also features a built-in memory. Meaning, you will be able to import all the designs you have in mind without worrying about the size or number of designs. Now: let’s check the disadvantages.
Pros
- Quick set bobbin system and modern features
- A built-in memory and embroidery card slot
- My Custom Stitch feature for making stitches
Cons
- Not the best embroidery machine for beginners
Janome MC 12000 Embroidery Machine
If you think that the 14000 is too much for you, you will probably like the Horizon Memory Craft 12000?
It is one of the best combo machines on the market. Switching between embroidery and sewing could not be easier! It is designed for intermediate and advanced users but beginners can use it as well. If you are new to the craft, this model will help you boost your creativity and take your skills to the next level.
It comes with a 15’’ stainless steel bed for large quilts and embroidery projects! You will get 425 built-in decorative, embroidery and utility stitches and 338 built-in design which is impressive. Besides, you will also get 10 fonts to choose from, 2 and 3 letters monogramming function and 13 one-step buttonholes.
However, the best part about this machine is that you can connect it to your computer and create your own designs, whenever you want, wherever you want. After, you can easily transfer them with a USB memory stick or download your designs from your computer into your modern embroidery machine.
Pros
- 10 LED lights
- New hoops
- 91 needle positions
- Automatic thread cutter
- Auto-declutch bobbin winder
- One-step needle plate converter
- Quiet operation
Cons
- Costly
Brother SE1800 Embroidery Machine
(Best Combo Machine)
If you were looking for the best combo machine on the market, consider your search over! We have the best one right here – SE1800 by Brother – Embroidery and Sewing Machine that is worth your attention and money. It has a lot to offer including 2 hoop sizes – 5’’ x 7’’ and 5’’ x 12’’. But that is not everything.
You will get 136 built-in embroidery designs, 12 border styles, and 10 frame shapes. However, this is not the best part of this machine. One of the best things that we like best is the possibility to rotate and edit designs. It has 184 stitches, 6 lettering fonts, 10 different buttonholes, and a well-built carrying case too.
Pros
- Editing features
- Carrying case
- Embroidery foot
- Embroidery thread spool
- A twin needle
- A knee lifter
- A needle pack
- 4 bobbins
- 136 built-in designs
Cons
- Costly
CAMFive CFSE-DM1501 Embroidery Machine
If you decided to buy from this brand, you should know that they provide costly but quality products in the market! However, this particular one is the cheapest one than the other similar models you placed.
However, this does not mean that it is less good than the other models that we will review a bit later.
On the contrary, it offers great value for the price! This embroidery machine has a max speed of 1,200 stitches per minute. Meaning, it is far faster than the rest of the domestic embroidery machines you have seen on the market. It also has a large memory capacity (you can remember 16 million stitches).
Pros
- Instant punch alphabetic system
- Multi-task touch screen control panel
- A maximum speed of 1,200 stitches per minute
- Faster and cheaper than other similar models
- A large memory capacity (16 million functions)
Cons
- Costly
SINGER Futura XL 400 Embroidery Machine
If you are looking to buy a sewing and embroidery machine that will boost your creativity and bring back the excitement into your life, the Futura XL 400 is the ideal choice for you! No matter if you are looking for the best embroidery machine for home business 2018 or 2020, this is the model you should consider.
You also get 15 embroidery patterns, outline lettering, and 5 fonts! If you plan on opening a home-based embroidery business, the large embroidery hoop will come in handy. Thanks to the inbuilt software, you can create an even larger virtual hoop. Now: let’s check the crucial pros and cons of Singer Futura XL400.
Pros
- 6 Stay Bright LED lights
- Embroidery design editing feature
- Lettering program
- PC-to-machine software
- Automatic needle threader
- Steady and ideal for embroidery projects
- Great value for the price that you pay
Cons
- Does not operate with Macs
EverSewn Sparrow X Embroidery Machine
(Best for Beginners)
Next on our list of top-rated embroidery machines is the Ever Sewn Sparrow X Next-Generation Sewing and Embroidery Machine that you will fall in love with. It is the most affordable model with all the ‘must’ features you need to sew, quilt and embroider. You can even control the machine with a smart device.
As the name reveals – it is an advanced combo machine with modern embroidery features that you can control from your Android or Apple device. It is like nothing you have seen before! You will get this baby with a large embroidery workspace, a maximum speed of 850 stitches per minute and over 100 designs.
You can now monitor and control your machine even if you are not in the same room. It also has speed control, a built-in auto thread cutter, and a straight stitch plate. Now, let’s summarize the pros and cons.
Pros
- A professionally equipped machine
- One-step buttonhole and two hoops
- Electronic tension adjustment
- Reads EXP, PES, and DST embroidery files
- Automatic thread trim function
Cons
- Possible thread trimmer issues
CAMFive EMB HT 1501 Single Head Embroidery Machine
Have you ever heard of the CAMFive brand? They product high-end embroidery machines that are just perfect for home use and home-based businesses! One of them is EMB HT 1501 Single Head, a machine you can use to embroider designs on jackets, hats, t-shirts and other garments, create a logo and so on.
It comes fully-equipped with all the necessary accessories and frames you need to get started. As you can notice by the title, it has a single head and 15 colors. But it is not all that this machine has to offer.
You will also get an expansive working space (22’’ x 14’’) and a max speed of 1,200 stitches per minute.
The touch screen HD LCD 8’’ has a user-friendly control panel with an incredible memory capacity of 100 million stitches and instant design. Now: let’s summarize the pros and cons and see if you should buy it!
Pros
- Fully-equipped with different accessories and frames
- 15 colors, single head, and an expansive working space
- User-friendly interface, 1,200 SPM rate and HC LCD 8’’
- An impressive memory capacity of 100 million stitches
Cons
- Costly
- Advanced technology
- Simple and easy to use
- Heavy-duty machine
CAMFive CFHS-CT1502 2 Heads Embroidery Machine
Next model by CAMFive we will review is the CFHS-CT1502 – one of the best embroidery machines for smaller and home-based businesses! It is one of the best professional embroidery machines for a home-based business on the market thanks to the many features and powerful but reliable Japanese motor.
You can not only work on conventional flat surfaces such as blankets, towels, fabrics and unassembled clothing pieces but also embroider nice designs on jackets, hats, t-shirts and other crafts. This workhorse has an 8’’ LCD with Dahao control panel and a good memory capacity of 2 million stitches and functions.
You can embroider without stopping. Meaning, it is great for coats, pants pockets, emblems and so on. Now: let’s summarize the pros and cons and determine if this is the right embroidery machine for you.
Pros
- Advanced technology
- Simple and easy to use
- Heavy-duty machine
Cons
- Costly
CAMFive CFHS 1506 6 Heads Embroidery Machine
CAMFive has another model worth mentioning. It is the CFHS 1506 embroidery machine with 6 heads and 15 needles! It is best known as the second best industrial embroidery machine for smaller business and home-based businesses. It features new modern attachments that will boost your current projects.
However, in order to learn how this machine works, the company will provide on-training. Meaning, it will teach you everything you need to know, so you can create your future masterpieces and make lots of money out. It provides excellent performance and high-quality embroidery but has downfalls as well.
Pros
- Very fast but quiet
- High-quality stitching
- Excellent for pros
Cons
- Not the best embroidery machine for beginners
CAMFive CFHS-CT1508 8 Heads Embroidery Machine
Last but certainly not least on our list of best embroidery machines for home use is the CAMFive CFHS-CT1508 with 15 needle, 8 heads, and a powerful motor. It is the most effective embroidery machine on our list that will blow you away with quality performance. You will complete your projects in no time.
The best part about this model is the speed – it is the fastest one out of the rest embroidery machines we have reviewed in this article. Now: let’s determine if this is the machine for you by summarizing the pros and cons. After, you can scroll down and learn how much does a good embroidery machine cost.
Pros
- Automatic thread cutters
- An automatic memory recovery system
- Touchscreen and a powerful motor
- 15 needles, 8 heads, and touchscreen
- Great value for the price that you pay
Cons
- Costly
How Much Does A Good Embroidery Machine Cost?
You might be wondering: how much does a decent embroidery machine cost? Well, as we mentioned at the beginning, prices vary. You can find a good embroidery machine for as cheap as $400. However, you can also purchase a $7,000 commercial machine, if you are an advanced user who wants to start off big.
A basic entry-level embroidery machine costs around $7,000 – $8,000. And that is not the end of it. Not all machines come well-equipped. Perhaps you will need to buy components and accessories to put the machine to work. However, if you are new to the craft, you can find a good machine for as little as $400.
FAQ
Final Verdict
We sincerely hope that the 15 best embroidery machines for home business we reviewed will help you make a smart choice. Starting an embroidery business can be a bit challenging but interesting too. And if you have a high-end durable and reliable embroidery machine, nothing can stop you from really doing it.
Cutter
I’m looking for the machine that sews around the edges of patches and everything like that already have the embroidery machine but it doesn’t wrap the needle around in patches don’t know the name of it
Mary Janes and Galoshes
Dear Cutter,
I appreciate your comment.
However, I have no idea what machine you are referring to. Please, provide more information or at least the name of the machine so I can help you.
Have a lovely day and stay safe.
Love, Mary.
Carmen MG
Hello!!
I found you locking for information of sewing and embroidery machines and I think your website amazing. All your reviews are so interesting!
I am from Spain, and I am starting my own brand of hats (bucket style) and my old sewing machine has broken (SINGER PROMISE, the most basic machine) and I’m interesting in replace it for a new none more professional and also buy an embroidery machine. I don´t know what is better, if buy 2 in 1 or buy a sewing and embroidery machine separately. My budget for all is 1700 eur (1830 $).
I have been reading your rankings and I realize that i am looking for is a sewing machine with mainly the following characteristics: can sew from light to thick fabrics and also many layers of fabrics, automatic tension thread and automatic buttonholes. I think i am going ot buy SINGER QUANTUM STYLIST 9985. What do you think?
And regarding to the embroidery machine i am completely lost, I want that the final embroidery has perfect, because the size of the logotype that i want to embroider is really small (like 50 mm of length and 25 mm of height, and 2 mm of stitch width ). Which one would you recommend me?
Many thanks and best regards!!!
Carmen
Mary Janes and Galoshes
Dear Carmen,
Thank you for your comment and kind words.
You can find a decent combination machine within your budget. I would suggest buying a 2-in-1 model. The one you chose is pretty good.
It’s loaded with features and highly-recommended by professional crafters around the world. However, Brother SE1800 is also worth considering. It fits within your budget.
It’s a combination unit loaded with advanced features. You will also get 136 built-in embroidery designs and a carrying case for traveling. It’s perfect for your needs.
Hopefully, my answer can help you make the right decision.
Have a wonderful day and stay safe.
Love, Mary.
Ethan
Thanks for the great info!
I own an apparel business and would like to do embroidery for rapid sampling and small runs (no more than 120 units). I only need embroidery capabilities, and am looking to spend under $1200. I am a quick study, and grew up in a quilt shop my mom owned so I am not looking for ease of use as a factor, although I’m down for it to be easy.
I would love to hear your recommendation
Thanks!
Mary Janes and Galoshes
Dear Ethan, thank you for your comment. Also, thank you for trusting my opinion and asking for recommendations.
If I were you, I would choose Ever Sewn Sparrow X Next-Generation Sewing and Embroidery Machine. It is a professionally-equipped unit with many advanced features such as electronic tension adjustment, 1-step buttonhole, and two hoops, automatic thread trim function and so on. It will cost you around $800.
It is recommended for beginners. Brother SE1800 Sewing And Embroidery Machine is also great for new sewers who want to express their creativity. It is the perfect combo unit with many features and a lot of accessories included. It is costlier than EverSewn (around $1200). However, it is still within your budget.
Love, Mary.
May Maalouly
Hello!
I accidentally stumbled upon your website while doing some research on embroidery machines and I found it super informative! I’ve been very interested in starting a small side business using machine embroidery but I am very confused as to best machine to purchase. I know very little about how to use the machine but I’m a fast learner. I have a decent budget to purchase a machine so cost is not an issue for me. What I’d like the machine to do is embroider on blankets, towels and denim amongst other materials and to cover large spaces as well. I am also interested in a machine that allows me to embroider any image off the internet for example and to be able to purchase additional software if required. The more it can do the better basically. I live in Dubai at the moment and I would want a machine that is internationally compatible in case I decide to move back to the US or elsewhere.
Last question is would i need the machine to sew as well if I want to add patches to denim for example (image attached for reference).
https://drive.google.com/open?id=1cKd2Z2ZzXl8chMk6vVRlqD7JDD4KPK9C
Thank you so much!
Mary Janes and Galoshes
Dear May, thank you for reaching out to me. I will be more than happy to help you choose an embroidery unit that will help you develop a successful embroidery business and express your creativity.
I understand that you want a combo sewing and embroidery machine.
As a beginner, I would recommend the Brother SE1800 Sewing And Embroidery Machine. It comes with two hoop sizes (5’’x7’’ & 5’’x12’’), 136 built-in embroidery designs, 184 built-in stitches, many advanced features and additional accessories like a knee lifter, embroidery foot and more that you could use to make unique pieces.
I also highly recommend the EverSewn Sparrow X Next-Generation Sewing and Embroidery Machine. It is perfect for beginners such as yourself. You can embroider, sew and quilt with this impressive machine.
I would say that users like this machine because of the 850 stitching speed, over 100 built-in embroidery designs, and a large embroidery workspace which is very important for you because you mentioned that you want to finish larger projects as well.
However, keep in mind that they are costlier than other machines on my list. Please check for additional embroidery software here. I personally recommend the Embrilliance AlphaTricks Embroidery Software.
To wrap it up, I would choose the EverSewn model if you want to add patches on denim and embroider as well. However, you should go with Brother SE1800 if you want a sewing unit with a large embroidery area and advanced features you will find useful as a beginner.
I believe that both machines are internationally compatible. However, please ask the seller for detailed information before you order just to make sure.
I hope that my answer will help you choose what is best for you. Please, read the entire guide on how to choose an embroidery machine and learn everything you need to know about the embroidery business.
I wish you luck and please update me on which one you picked.
Love, Mary.