Choosing the Best Embroidery Machine for a Small Printing Business
If you’re planning to start a small printing business or upgrade your embroidery setup, one of the most common questions is: What is the best embroidery machine?
The answer depends on your goals, budget, and whether you’re creating as a hobby or building a commercial venture. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know — from single vs. multi-needle machines to brand comparisons and expert recommendations.
Single Needle vs. Multi-Needle Embroidery Machines
Both single-needle and multi-needle embroidery machines are computerized, come with touchscreens, and support USB imports for designs. But the main difference lies in speed, flexibility, and productivity.
Single Needle Embroidery Machines
Best for hobbyists and beginners.
Flatbed design makes it harder to embroider on tubular items (like sleeves or caps).
Slower, one-color-at-a-time operation.
More affordable, and some models also offer sewing and quilting features.
Limitations: Single-needle machines are not built for commercial use. They require constant supervision and frequent thread changes, which reduces efficiency if you plan to run a small embroidery or printing business.
Multi-Needle Embroidery Machines
Typically 6 to 18 needles with automatic thread color changes.
Tubular arms make embroidery on hats, socks, pockets, and onesies easy.
Higher speed, smoother operation, and continuous stitching.
Better for business owners who want to scale production.
Bottom line: If your long-term goal is to start a small printing business, a multi-needle machine is a smarter investment.
Hobby vs. Business: What’s Your Goal?
Before buying an embroidery machine, ask yourself:
Am I creating embroidery projects for fun or profit?
Who is my target customer?
What garments will I embroider most often?
Do I need attachments (like cap frames or oversized hoops)?
For hobbyists: Choose ease of use and creative flexibility. Machines with extra built-in designs may appeal to you.
For business owners: Focus on speed, efficiency, and essential attachments. For example:
A cap frame for hats.
A large hoop for jacket backs.
Tubular arm support for high-volume production.
⚡ Pro Tip: Many embroidery businesses start small but grow quickly. Choosing a machine that allows attachments ensures your equipment scales with your business.
Home vs. Commercial Embroidery Machine Brands
Home Brands
Popular names like Brother, Janome, Bernina, Viking, and Babylock are trusted for quality. They often include user-friendly extras but are pricier due to dealer networks.
✅ Pros: Great support, easy to learn, feature-rich.
❌ Cons: Not built for heavy production.
If buying second-hand, always get the machine inspected to avoid hidden issues.
Commercial Brands
Commercial machines are built for production and durability. Trusted names include Tajima, Barudan, and ZSK. These brands hold resale value, offer reliability, and perform well for business use.
✅ Pros: Faster, more durable, designed for continuous operation.
❌ Cons: Less hand-holding, higher learning curve.
⚠️ Be cautious with low-cost commercial machines under $8,000. While tempting, they may require constant tension adjustments and advanced knowledge.
Recommended Embroidery Machine: Tajima SAI
For anyone serious about embroidery—whether starting a side hustle or expanding a small printing business—the Tajima SAI is a top choice.
Compact but powerful.
Handles multiple colors seamlessly.
Excellent for caps, pockets, and larger garments.
Professional-grade quality at an accessible price.
Optional attachments let you expand as your business grows.
👉 If you’re serious about embroidery, this machine offers a balance of reliability, speed, and scalability.
Conclusion: Which Embroidery Machine is Best for You?
If embroidery is just a hobby, a single-needle home machine may be enough. But if your goal is to start a small printing business or grow an existing one, a multi-needle commercial machine will save you time, money, and frustration.
Remember:
Match your machine choice to your business goals.
Consider attachments before investing.
Stick with reliable brands for long-term results.
💡 Want professional digitizing help for your embroidery business? Reach us at info@ezstitchdigitizing.com or connect on Facebook.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Is a multi-needle embroidery machine worth it for beginners?
Yes. While the upfront cost is higher, multi-needle machines save time with automatic color changes and tubular design, making them ideal for small business owners.
Q2: What attachments should I prioritize when starting a business?
Start with a cap frame, a large hoop for jackets, and tubular arm support. These cover the most popular custom embroidery requests.
Q3: Can I use a home embroidery machine for commercial work?
You can, but it’s not recommended. Home machines are slower, require frequent stops, and can’t handle high-volume production efficiently.
Q4: Which brand offers the best embroidery machine for small businesses?
Commercial brands like Tajima, Barudan, and ZSK are most reliable. The Tajima SAI is an excellent balance of affordability and performance.
Q5: How much should I budget to start a small printing and embroidery business?
Plan on at least $8,000–$12,000 for a reliable machine, plus digitizing software, threads, and accessories. This ensures professional-quality output from day one.
Contact us:
Whether you’re repairing your wardrobe or planning to start a small printing business, our digitizing and vectorizing services make your ideas come to life.
📩 Email us at info@ezstitchdigitizing.com or message us on Facebook to get started today!
