Embroidery Supplies You Need to Get Started: A Beginner's Guide

As a beginner diving into the world of machine embroidery, the prospect of buying supplies and equipment can be daunting. But fear not! With a little guidance, you'll soon be on your way to creating beautiful embroidered designs. In this article, we'll discuss the embroidery supplies you need to get started.

High-Quality Embroidery Supplies

The first rule of thumb when starting with machine embroidery is to look for high-quality supplies from a reputable supplier. Although it may be tempting to opt for cheaper alternatives, doing so can cause more problems and cost you more money in the long run. Look for supplies that are specifically geared towards machine embroidery and buy from a supplier that offers good support after your purchase.

An Embroidery Machine

To start, you'll need an embroidery machine. Most beginners start with a single needle home machine from a reputable brand like Brother, Baby Lock, or Viking. When purchasing your first machine, consider the size of the design you want to embroider. Many entry-level machines are limited in the size of the design they can stitch out, so try to look for an embroidery machine with a minimum of a 5" x 7" sewing field.

Stabilizer, the Foundation of Embroidery

Embroidery stabilizer, also known as backing, provides the stabilization you need to embroider garments, especially stretchy ones. There are two main categories of embroidery backings, cut away and tear away. Cut away backing is more stable and tear away can be used on items that you will easily see the back of to give it a neater appearance, such as towels and linens. Look for different weights, types, and sizes of stabilizer in both precut sheets and on rolls, and consider purchasing backing swatch cards to see and feel the different types of embroidery backings offered.

Embroidery Thread

Using a high-quality thread, like Madeira, will ensure that your machine stitches correctly and trouble-free. Madeira thread is available in both polyester and rayon, but if you are just starting out and do not have a preference, we recommend poly. Look for a physical color card with your first order, which will contain the actual thread swatches on the card, and refer to this every time you purchase thread. Thread comes in both smaller 1,100 yd sizes and large 5,500 yd sizes. You will get about 200,000 stitches out of the small size and 1,000,000 stitches out of the cones. If you plan to use the larger cones with home machines, you may need to buy an external thread stand.

Bobbins, the Bottom Thread

There are three common sizes of bobbins available for embroidery machines. From smallest to largest, they are Style L, Class 15 (Style A), & Jumbo M. Most home machines use either a Style L or Class 15. Most commercial machines use a Style L. Consult your user manual or ask your machine manufacturer if you are unsure. Pre-wound bobbins save time and are much easier to use than bobbins you wind at home.

Scissors

There are many different types of specialty scissors used in machine embroidery, but at the bare minimum, you'll need a good pair of general use scissors to cut stabilizer and a pair of thread snips. Look for high-quality scissors and only use them for their intended purpose.

Practice Continuously

The final advice we have for you is to practice continuously. Nobody became an expert embroiderer overnight. While just learning, go through your closet and pick out all different types of old clothes you no longer wear. Take one good design and start embroidering all over your clothing using different stabilizers and techniques to 

find what works best for you. Also, don’t be afraid to ask questions. Join a Facebook group like Machine Embroidery Help and you will have thousands of instant embroidery friends eager to help you.

In conclusion, getting started with machine embroidery may seem overwhelming at first, but with the right supplies and equipment, you'll be well on your way to creating beautiful designs. Remember to invest in high-quality supplies, consider the size of the design you want to embroider when purchasing your machine, and practice continuously. With time and effort, you'll be able to master this exciting hobby and create stunning embroidered pieces to be proud of.

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