Choosing the best embroidery machine for applique projects involves balancing features like hoop size, design versatility, ease of use, and budget. The Brother PE900 stands out as the best overall due to its large embroidery area and extensive design library, making it ideal for complex applique work. The Brother SE2000 offers a versatile combo of sewing and embroidery with premium accessories, perfect for those wanting a multi-functional machine. However, tradeoffs include higher prices and learning curves, especially for beginners. Continue reading for a detailed breakdown of each option to find the best fit for your applique projects.
Key Takeaways
- The largest embroidery area isn’t always necessary; smaller hoops can suffice for simpler applique designs.
- Built-in design libraries vary significantly, impacting creativity and ease of use.
- Sewing and embroidery combo machines offer convenience but often come with higher price tags.
- WLAN connectivity can streamline design transfers but might add complexity for less tech-savvy users.
- Entry-level models tend to have fewer features but are more affordable and easier to operate for beginners.
| Brother PE900 5″ x 7″ Embroidery Machine with Accessories and Thread Set |  | Best Overall for Versatile Embroidery Enthusiasts | Embroidery Area: 5″ x 7″ | Built-in Designs: 193 | Built-in Fonts: 13 | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Brother PE900 Embroidery Machine with WLAN |  | Best for Digital Connectivity and Design Flexibility | Embroidery Area: 5″ x 7″ | Built-in Designs: 193 | Lettering Fonts: 13 | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Brother PE545 Embroidery Machine, Wireless LAN Connected, 135 Built-in Designs, 4″ x 4″ Hoop Area, 3.7″ LCD Touchscreen, USB Port, 10 Font Styles |  | Best for Compact, User-Friendly Embroidery | Embroidery Area: 4″ x 4″ | Built-in Designs: 135 | Touchscreen: 3.7-inch LCD color | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Brother SE700 Sewing and Embroidery Machine, Wireless LAN, 135 Designs, 103 Stitches, 4×4 Embroidery Area, 3.7″ Touchscreen |  | Best for All-in-One Sewing and Embroidery with Versatility | Embroidery Area: 4″ x 4″ | Built-in Designs: 135 | Built-in Stitches: 103 | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Brother SE700 Combo Embroidery & Sewing Machine with 4 Embroidery Hoops, Thread Set & Accessories |  | Best for Complete DIY and Small Business Use | Embroidery Area: 4″ x 4″ | Built-in Designs: 135 | Built-in Stitches: 103 | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Brother SE2000 Computerized Sewing and Embroidery Machine |  | Best Overall for Versatile Embroidery and Sewing | Embroidery Field: 5″ x 7″ | Touchscreen: 3.7-inch LCD color display | Built-in Embroidery Designs: 190+ | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Brother SE2000 5″ x 7″ Combo Embroidery & Sewing Machine with Deluxe Accessories |  | Best for All-in-One Versatility with Extensive Accessories | Embroidery Area: 5″ x 7″ | Built-in Embroidery Designs: 193 | Built-in Sewing Stitches: 103 | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Brother PE900 5″ x 7″ Embroidery Machine with Accessories and Thread Set
The Brother PE900 stands out for its generous 5″ x 7″ embroidery area, making it ideal for larger, more intricate applique projects. Its extensive collection of 193 built-in designs and 13 fonts, combined with a user-friendly 3.7-inch LCD touchscreen, offers a seamless editing experience. Compared to the PE545, it provides more design flexibility and a larger workspace, but this comes with a higher price and a more complex bundle that might overwhelm beginners. Its wireless transfer via the Artspira app streamlines design sharing, which is a plus for users who want quick, digital workflow integration. However, being an embroidery-only machine, it lacks sewing capabilities, limiting its versatility for those seeking an all-in-one solution.
Pros:- Large 5″ x 7″ embroidery area for detailed projects
- Extensive built-in designs and fonts for customization
- Intuitive touch screen for easy editing
- Wireless design transfer via app
Cons:- Embroidery-only functionality limits versatility
- Higher price point may be prohibitive for hobbyists
- Bundle can be overwhelming for beginners
Best for: Experienced hobbyists or small business owners focused on large, detailed applique projects who need a dedicated embroidery machine.
Not ideal for: Beginners or sewists wanting an all-in-one machine; its complexity and higher price may be daunting for new users.
- Embroidery Area:5″ x 7″
- Built-in Designs:193
- Built-in Fonts:13
- Display:3.7-inch LCD touchscreen
- Embroidery Speed:up to 650 stitches per minute
- Connectivity:Wireless transfer via Artspira Mobile App
Bottom line: This machine is best suited for experienced users who prioritize larger embroidery areas and design variety without sewing functions.
Brother PE900 Embroidery Machine with WLAN
The Brother PE900 with WLAN is a strong choice for those who want a large embroidery area combined with wireless design transfer. Its 5″ x 7″ hoop allows for bigger applique motifs, and the 3.7-inch LCD is bright and easy to navigate. While it shares many features with the PE900 above, this version emphasizes wireless connectivity, making it especially convenient for users who prefer to work with design files stored on networked devices. Compared to the PE545, it offers more seamless design sharing but maintains the same embroidery-only limitation. The need for compatible apps and software might slow down workflow for some, and its higher price reflects its focus on connectivity features rather than added design capacity.
Pros:- Large embroidery space for bigger projects
- Wireless transfer for quick design sharing
- Bright, easy-to-use LCD touchscreen
- Includes 193 designs and multiple fonts
Cons:- Embroidery-only machine, no sewing functions
- Requires compatible app and network setup
- Limited to US 120V power supply
Best for: Digitally savvy users needing a large embroidery area with wireless transfer for frequent design updates.
Not ideal for: Beginners or those seeking an all-in-one sewing and embroidery machine; its focus on embroidery and connectivity can be limiting.
- Embroidery Area:5″ x 7″
- Built-in Designs:193
- Lettering Fonts:13
- Display:3.7-inch LCD
- Connectivity:Wireless LAN
Bottom line: Ideal for users who prioritize large designs and seamless digital workflow over sewing versatility.
Brother PE545 Embroidery Machine, Wireless LAN Connected, 135 Built-in Designs, 4″ x 4″ Hoop Area, 3.7″ LCD Touchscreen, USB Port, 10 Font Styles
The Brother PE545 offers a smaller 4″ x 4″ embroidery area, making it a good choice for those starting with applique or working on smaller projects. Its large 3.7-inch color touchscreen simplifies design editing, and the inclusion of 135 built-in designs plus 10 fonts provides enough variety for most hobbyist needs. Unlike larger models like the PE900, the PE545 is more compact and budget-friendly, but this means it cannot handle larger applique motifs. Its wireless LAN facilitates easy importing and exporting of designs, which is particularly helpful for users who want to expand their library without cluttering the machine with too many preloaded options. It’s a solid choice for beginners or those with limited space.
Pros:- Compact size ideal for limited space
- Large color touchscreen for simple editing
- Wireless LAN for design transfer
- Affordable price for entry-level users
Cons:- Limited embroidery area restricts larger applique designs
- Fewer built-in designs compared to larger models
- No sewing functions included
Best for: Beginners or hobbyists focusing on small applique projects and who want an easy-to-use, compact embroidery machine.
Not ideal for: Advanced users or those working on larger projects, as the 4″ x 4″ hoop size can be restrictive.
- Embroidery Area:4″ x 4″
- Built-in Designs:135
- Touchscreen:3.7-inch LCD color
- Connectivity:Wireless LAN
- Included Accessories:Needles, bobbins, hoops
Bottom line: A practical choice for beginners and small-scale applique projects who value ease of use and portability.
Brother SE700 Sewing and Embroidery Machine, Wireless LAN, 135 Designs, 103 Stitches, 4×4 Embroidery Area, 3.7″ Touchscreen
The Brother SE700 combines sewing and embroidery functions in a single machine, with a 4″ x 4″ embroidery area suitable for smaller applique projects. Its 135 built-in designs and 103 stitches make it adaptable for various creative tasks. The 3.7-inch touchscreen provides an intuitive interface for editing and previewing designs, and wireless connectivity simplifies transferring new patterns. Unlike dedicated embroidery-only models like the PE900, the SE700 offers sewing options, but this results in a slightly smaller embroidery area and a more complex interface. It’s a good pick for sewists who want to occasionally add embroidery to their projects without investing in separate machines.
Pros:- Dual sewing and embroidery functions in one machine
- Large color touchscreen for easy editing
- Wireless transfer for convenient design updates
- Includes 8 sewing feet for various techniques
Cons:- Limited embroidery area size for large applique
- More complex operation due to combined features
- Requires more space and setup time
Best for: Crafters who want a combination sewing and embroidery machine for small applique projects and versatile sewing needs.
Not ideal for: Heavy-duty sewing or large applique projects, as the 4″ x 4″ hoop limits design size and the machine’s focus is split between sewing and embroidery.
- Embroidery Area:4″ x 4″
- Built-in Designs:135
- Built-in Stitches:103
- Display:3.7-inch LCD color
- Connectivity:Wireless LAN
- Auto Needle Threader:Yes
Bottom line: Perfect for sewists seeking a versatile machine that handles small embroidery projects alongside sewing tasks.
Brother SE700 Combo Embroidery & Sewing Machine with 4 Embroidery Hoops, Thread Set & Accessories
The Brother SE700 Combo offers a solid mix of sewing and embroidery capabilities, with a 4″ x 4″ embroidery area well-suited for applique and decorative projects. Its 135 built-in embroidery designs and 103 stitches provide ample options for customization, and the inclusion of four hoops allows for flexibility in different projects. The 3.2 x 1.8-inch LCD touch screen makes editing straightforward, and wireless connectivity simplifies design transfer. Compared with the PE900, it provides more accessory options and a smaller footprint, but the limited embroidery space may not satisfy those working on larger applique motifs. Its feature set caters well to DIYers and small business owners needing versatility in a compact package.
Pros:- Includes multiple hoops for project flexibility
- Wide range of built-in designs and stitches
- On-screen editing for quick customization
- Wireless transfer for design convenience
Cons:- Relatively high price for a 4″ x 4″ embroidery area
- Learning curve for new users due to multiple features
- Limited embroidery size for larger applique motifs
Best for: Enthusiasts and small-scale entrepreneurs who want a combination embroidery and sewing machine ready for diverse projects, including applique.
Not ideal for: Large-scale applique or quilting projects requiring bigger embroidery areas, as the 4″ x 4″ hoop limits design size.
- Embroidery Area:4″ x 4″
- Built-in Designs:135
- Built-in Stitches:103
- Display:3.2 x 1.8-inch LCD
- Wireless LAN:Yes
- Additional Features:Auto-size buttonholes, on-screen editing
Bottom line: Best suited for small business owners and hobbyists needing a versatile combo machine with multiple hoop options for applique and decorative work.
Brother SE2000 Computerized Sewing and Embroidery Machine
The Brother SE2000 stands out for its combination of large embroidery space and an intuitive touchscreen, making it a top choice for users who want both sewing and embroidery capabilities in one machine. Compared with the Brother SE700, it offers a slightly larger embroidery area (5″ x 7″ vs. 4″ x 4″) and more built-in designs, which is a major advantage for applique projects that often feature bigger or more detailed motifs. However, its need for firmware updates via a USB drive and reliance on the Artspira app can add complexity for those who prefer a straightforward setup. Its 190+ built-in designs and 50 downloadable patterns provide extensive options, but international users should note that it’s designed for US voltage, limiting wider use. Overall, this model is ideal for sewists who want a flexible, feature-rich machine that balances creative potential with user-friendliness, despite some setup intricacies.
Pros:- Large 5″ x 7″ embroidery area ideal for bigger applique designs
- Color touchscreen with editing tools simplifies customization
- Wireless connectivity enables easy pattern transfer
- Over 190 built-in designs plus downloadable options
Cons:- Firmware updates require a USB drive and can be cumbersome
- Designed for US voltage, limiting international use
Best for: Intermediate to advanced crafters who want a large embroidery area and versatile design options for applique projects.
Not ideal for: Beginners seeking a simple, plug-and-play machine or international users needing a broader voltage compatibility.
- Embroidery Field:5″ x 7″
- Touchscreen:3.7-inch LCD color display
- Built-in Embroidery Designs:190+
- Downloadable Designs:50
- Built-in Stitches:241
- Embroidery Fonts:13
- Buttonholes:10 styles, automatic sizing
- Connectivity:Wireless LAN, USB port
- Warranty:25 years
Bottom line: This machine is best suited for experienced sewists looking for a versatile, large-capacity embroidery option that can handle detailed applique projects.
Brother SE2000 5″ x 7″ Combo Embroidery & Sewing Machine with Deluxe Accessories
The Brother SE2000 with its deluxe accessories kit offers a comprehensive package for those who want a versatile sewing and embroidery machine packed with features. It shares the same large 5″ x 7″ embroidery area as the previous model, but stands out for including a broad set of accessories, such as multiple threads, feet, and an embroidery frame, making it a more turnkey solution for enthusiastic hobbyists. Its 193 built-in embroidery designs and 103 sewing stitches provide a wide array of creative options, although the extensive setup and heavier weight could pose challenges for smaller spaces or those new to embroidery. The 3.7″ LCD touchscreen remains easy to navigate, and the machine’s compatibility with iBroidery and wireless LAN adds convenience, especially for users who prefer app-based design management. This model suits those looking for a complete, ready-to-go package, even if it demands a slightly steeper learning curve and more storage space.
Pros:- Large 5″ x 7″ embroidery area perfect for applique projects
- Includes extensive accessories like multiple threads and embroidery frames
- Touchscreen interface facilitates quick design edits
- Wireless LAN and iBroidery compatibility enhance design options
Cons:- Setup can be complex and intimidating for beginners
- Heavier and bulkier, requiring more storage space
- Higher price point compared to basic models
Best for: Beginners or hobbyists seeking a full accessory bundle and seamless integration of sewing and embroidery functions.
Not ideal for: Users with limited workspace or those who prefer lightweight, portable machines for occasional use.
- Embroidery Area:5″ x 7″
- Built-in Embroidery Designs:193
- Built-in Sewing Stitches:103
- Display:3.7″ LCD color touchscreen
- Wireless LAN:Yes
- iBroidery Compatibility:Yes
- Included Threads:80 embroidery, 50 sewing
- Accessories:Multiple feet, bobbins, embroidery frame
Bottom line: This machine is best for dedicated hobbyists who want a complete, feature-rich embroidery and sewing combo with all the accessories included, despite its heavier build and setup complexity.
How We Picked
The products in this roundup were selected based on their embroidery area size, design library, ease of use, build quality, and value for money. We prioritized machines with features tailored to applique projects, such as large hoops and specialized stitch options. Connectivity options and included accessories also played a role, ensuring users can start working on designs immediately. The ranking reflects a balance between performance, versatility, and affordability, helping both hobbyists and more advanced sewists find suitable options.Factors to Consider When Choosing Best Embroidery Machine For Applique Projects
Choosing the right embroidery machine for applique projects involves understanding key features that influence usability and creative potential. Beyond basic specifications, it’s important to consider how the machine fits your skill level, project scope, and budget. The following factors will help clarify what to look for when selecting a machine tailored to applique work.Embroidery Area Size
A larger embroidery area allows for bigger or more intricate applique designs without re-hooping. Machines with at least a 5″ x 7″ hoop provide more flexibility, but smaller hoops can be adequate for simpler or smaller projects. Consider your typical project size and whether you prefer to re-hoop frequently or work in one seamless session.
Design Library and Customization
A rich set of built-in designs can jumpstart your projects, especially if they include applique-specific patterns. Additionally, the ability to import custom designs via USB or Wi-Fi can expand your creative options. Be wary of machines with limited design options if you plan to do frequent or complex applique work.
Ease of Use and Learning Curve
Intuitive interfaces, touchscreens, and guided tutorials help reduce the learning curve, making it easier to focus on your applique work rather than troubleshooting. Advanced features like automatic thread cutting or positioning can streamline workflows but might complicate the user experience for absolute beginners.
Connectivity and Software
Wireless connectivity allows for seamless design transfers and updates, saving time. However, it can introduce additional setup steps or compatibility issues. Consider whether you prefer USB-based transfers for simplicity or Wi-Fi for convenience, especially if you plan to access online design libraries.
Build Quality and Accessories
Durability and quality construction ensure your machine lasts through frequent projects. Included accessories like multiple hoops, stabilizers, and embroidery threads add value and convenience. Investing in a well-built machine with comprehensive accessories can reduce ongoing costs and frustrations.
Budget and Long-Term Value
Higher-priced machines often offer more features and larger hoops, but they may not be necessary for casual hobbyists. Conversely, affordable models might lack key features needed for more complex applique. Balance upfront costs with potential long-term benefits to select a machine that grows with your skills and projects.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I do complex applique designs on a smaller embroidery area machine?
Yes, smaller embroidery areas can handle complex applique designs, especially if they are segmented or designed to fit within smaller hoops. Many patterns are optimized for smaller hoops, and re-hooping can be manageable for experienced users. However, for larger, more intricate designs without frequent re-hooping, a machine with a bigger embroidery area simplifies the process and saves time.
Is Wi-Fi connectivity necessary for an embroidery machine focused on applique?
Wi-Fi connectivity is not essential but offers significant convenience by enabling quick design transfers and access to online pattern libraries. If you prefer a straightforward setup, a USB-only machine can suffice, especially if you already have a collection of designs stored locally. Connectivity features become more valuable as your embroidery library grows or if you want to update designs frequently.
What features should I prioritize if I am a beginner?
Beginners should look for machines with intuitive interfaces, guided tutorials, and automatic features like thread cutting and needle positioning. A smaller embroidery area can be less intimidating, and a comprehensive accessory set helps start projects right away. Choosing a model with good customer support and easy-to-understand instructions is equally important for building confidence and skills.
Are combo sewing and embroidery machines worth it for applique projects?
Combo machines offer versatility, allowing you to sew and embroider in one device, which can be a cost-effective choice for hobbyists. They are ideal if you want to combine applique with sewing finishes or quilting. However, they tend to be more complex and heavier, potentially making them less suitable for those primarily interested in embroidery, especially if space or portability is a concern.
How much should I expect to spend for a machine capable of professional-quality applique?
Professional-quality machines with large embroidery areas, extensive design libraries, and advanced features typically start around $1,000 and can go much higher. For serious hobbyists or small business owners, investing more provides better durability, more design options, and faster embroidery speeds. For casual users, models in the $300-$700 range may suffice, but they might lack some advanced features needed for intricate applique work.
Conclusion
For those just starting out or working on small projects, a compact, user-friendly model like the Brother PE900 offers excellent value. If you want a versatile machine that handles both sewing and embroidery with a large workspace, the Brother SE2000 is a strong choice. For dedicated applique enthusiasts seeking maximum design flexibility and size, the Brother PE900 remains the best overall pick due to its expansive hoop and rich feature set. Budget-conscious buyers should consider models with fewer bells and whistles but reliable performance, while advanced users aiming for professional results might prefer higher-end options with extensive features and larger hoops. Ultimately, your choice depends on your project scope, skill level, and how much you’re willing to invest.
