Machine embroidery: the complete guide to getting started and progressing

Machine embroidery : a creative, precise and accessible technique that is attracting more and more sewing enthusiasts. Whether you are a curious beginner or an experienced seamstress, the embroidery machine opens the doors to textile personalization , with varied machine embroidery designs , intuitive software , and professional results, even at home.

Thanks to a dedicated embroidery machine or a combination machine , it is now possible to create complex embroidery on clothing, accessories, household linens or creative projects, without any particular manual experience. All you need is good equipment, an embroidery file , and a little method to transform a simple fabric into a unique creation.

In this article, we'll guide you through all the essential steps: choosing materials, types of embroidery threads , using stabilizers , selecting embroidery designs , and tips for a perfect finish. You'll know exactly how to get started, progress, and avoid common mistakes .

What is machine embroidery?

Machine embroidery is a computer-assisted textile decoration method that automatically reproduces embroidered designs on a wide range of fabrics. Unlike hand embroidery, it requires no drawing or fine sewing skills: an embroidery machine creates the stitches from a digital file uploaded via USB or software.

Difference with hand embroidery

Hand embroidery relies on manual gesture, slowness, and artisanal expression. It is ideal for artistic or unique projects.
Machine embroidery allows you to repeat a perfectly identical pattern in record time, with clean and solid finishes. It is therefore more suitable for mass customization , the creation of embroidered gifts or the sale of textile objects .

Why choose machine embroidery?

Here are the main advantages of machine embroidery:

• Considerable time saving
• Professional result
• Textile versatility
• Ease of use
• Unlimited creativity

What equipment do you need for machine embroidery?

To get started with machine embroidery , you need the right equipment. In addition to the machine, there are some essential accessories that ensure clean and precise results.

Embroidery machine or combination machine?

• Single embroidery machine : specialized, such as the Janome 550E or MB-7 , ideal for frequent embroidery.
• Combined sewing/embroidery machine : like the Skyline S9 or the Continental M17 , perfect for doing everything on one machine.

These models are available from Verotex .

Threads, needles and stabilizers: how to choose the right ones?

Basic material:

• Polyester embroidery thread (strong, shiny)
• Special machine embroidery needles (Schmetz 75/11 or 90/14)
• Stabilizers (tear-off, water-soluble, iron-on, etc.)
• Suitable embroidery frame
• Precision scissors

How to create or use embroidery designs?

Embroidery designs are at the heart of creation. You can use the ones built into the machine or import your own.

Built-in patterns vs. external files

• Built-in patterns: ready to use
• External files: import via USB or Wi-Fi
• Formats: JEF (Janome) , PES (Brother) , DST (industrial)

Machine embroidery software to know

To create or edit patterns:

• Janome Artistic Digitizer
• Embrilliance
• Ink/Stitch (free)

The steps to successful machine embroidery

Here are the key steps for neat embroidery:

1. Prepare the fabric and stabilizer
2. Fix everything in the frame , well tensioned
3. Choose the pattern , load it onto the machine
4. Install the correct thread and needle
5. Start the embroidery , monitoring the first few minutes
6. Finalize : cut the wires, remove the stabilizer

Bonus: our tips for flawless machine embroidery

Stretch the fabric and stabilizer well

Essential to avoid creases and misalignments.

Adapt the needle to the fabric

• 75/11 : light to medium weight fabric
• 90/14 : thick fabric
  Change it as soon as it gets dull!

Clean and maintain your machine

Clean the bobbin case, claws and dust regularly.

Conclusion

Machine embroidery allows you to transform any textile into a unique piece . By choosing the right machine , good thread , a quality design , and an effective stabilizer, you will quickly achieve professional results.

👉 Explore the selection of Janome embroidery machines and all accessories on Verotex .

Machine Embroidery FAQ

What is the best machine to start with?

The Janome 550E for its simplicity, its embroidery surface and its integrated designs.

Do you need paid embroidery software?

No. Free options like Ink/Stitch are enough to get started.

Can you embroider on all fabrics?

Yes, with the needle and stabilizer adapted to each material.

What is the difference between JEF, PES, DST?

These are pattern formats depending on the brand of your machine (JEF = Janome, PES = Brother, DST = pro).

Does machine embroidery damage fabrics?

Not if you use a new needle , suitable thread and the fabric is well stabilized