Do you have an embroidery machine on your Christmas list this year? If so, they are a considerable investment, so you want to be sure to get the one that is right for you. Here are the top five things you should consider before choosing.

1.    Research, research, research.

Each manufacturer has a website with plenty of information to read and download. Check out the forum here at AnntheGran.com. It has plenty of tips and offers help to users of Brother machines.

Things like design cards and magic boxes are old school. USB hook up direct to the computer is essential. What kind of warranty do you get? Can you resize designs on the machine or do you need a separate computer software program?

Are you buying a machine for business or pleasure? Production machines are quite different than those built for home use. Can you get service locally, or do you have to ship the machine to the factory for repairs?

2.    Don’t buy one without trying one.

This is one item that you do not want somebody else to pick without your input. Once you do the research, try out a machine yourself. Check at your local quilt shop; dealers have models on display. Ask around among your sewing friends. Most are more than happy to show you what they have, what they wished they had, and what they know.

3.    What is the best brand of embroidery machine to buy?

These days they are all relatively good. Obviously, some embroidery machines have more options than others and prices vary accordingly. Just like with vehicles or pets, everyone has their preference. Bottom line, decide on a budget and buy the most options available for the money.

4.    Choose a machine you can grow into.

Be sure you have room to grow. Hoops are getting bigger every year, so you do not want to be limited by only one or two standard hoop sizes. Often, the throat width (space between the needle and machine) dictates how much real estate you can hoop.

What kinds of accessories are available? Different presser feet, quilting capability, even cutwork tools are considerations.

5.    Make sure you can get help when you need it.

It doesn’t matter how wonderful your new machine is if you can’t use it. Whether it is from a friend, dealer, or forum, be sure you have resources you can easily access for help in using your machine.

What advice do you have for anyone buying a new embroidery machine?

Debbie SewBlest

OK, gals, mark your calendars today – April 3rd and 4th – less than 9 weeks away. It’s time to get together and re-energize our passion for embroidery at the first annual AnnTheGran Community Circle retreat. I love sunny Orlando and we’ll spend two whole days exploring innovative techniques, inspirational tips and the latest and greatest in the world of embroidery.

Now, here’s the plan:

On Thursday:

- To kick off the fun, we’ll all gather for a continental breakfast and coffee. I’ll tell you some of my stories. We’ll have some laughs and rev up for the day.
- Then it’s off to morning seminars. Of course you’ll see me and I’ve invited embroidery expert and educator, Eileen Roche, to share her knowledge and inspiration with you as well.
- At lunchtime you’re on your own. You can visit the area restaurants and then do a little shopping in our AnnTheGran travelling store.
- Afternoon seminars will be packed with more project ideas, and “how-to” techniques and tips to take back home.
- Then we’re planning a dinner and evening of more fun with Eileen and myself.


On Friday

- We’ll do breakfast again, I'll walk you through my new site and, if you're not afraid of cracking the lens on your camera, you can have a photo taken with me if you like
- We’ll share more enthusiastic morning seminars with Eileen and me.
- Lunch same as on Thursday.
- Then we’ll wrap it up with more information packed seminars.

Now, here are a few of the details:

-You get to attend all the seminars and breakfast with me both days for only $129.00.
-And you won’t want to miss a great dinner and an evening with Eileen and me – Your choice whether or not to attend, but a great bargain for $30.00
-While at the retreat you’ll get a stuffed goodie bag including samples of some of our products, but in addition a one year membership to Ann’s Club worth $60.00 and AnnTheGran Essentials Embroidery Design CD valued at $199.
- When you register you’ll be entered into a drawing for some fantastic prizes.


More on how to register, how to get your hotel room (if you need one), and details on the seminars will be coming your way very very soon. But remember to put a big X on your calendar for April 3rd and 4th now and make plans to join us. We’ve got lots of new ideas, creative techniques and innovative embroidery processes to share.



Hope to see you in Orlando!



Best Wishes,



Ann