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ffokazak · May 12th, 2008

Hey guys!

I am excited to be looking at getting into embroidery.

I have found a source who has a Toyota 830 machine.
She also may have another becoming available.

My Question, It would cost twice as much, but would having two machines be a smart choice?

If you could start with one machine or two, which would you do?

Thanks!

tfalk · May 12th, 2008

I started with 1 machine for about 6 months. It quickly became apparent that we needed a second machine when the original machine went in the shop for 6 days and I had orders waiting....

I can spend more time down in the shop running 1 machine or use both machines and have some time left over to do other things...

ftembroidery · May 12th, 2008

You're "looking at getting into embroidery". It sounds like you don't "actually" have a business or an established customer base. Do you know what TYPE of embroidery you'll be doing? There's those that do the nice little touches that add a little "sparkle" or "pizazz" to a piece, there's those that do corporate logo/work identity wear, and there's others.

There's different software programs for digitizing the design or artwork into something that will sew and (hopefully) look good.

There's the expense of buying and having in stock cones of thread, backing (stabilizer), hoops, hat drivers & hoops, etc.

With more sewing heads (in your case 2 instead of only 1) you can put out more product in less time (in your case you can double your output by having 2 heads) and make twice as much money.

If you plan on this as only a hobby that you do for family and friends when someone has a baby or something like that, it'll be a very big investment of money with virtually no return. If you look at it like a BUSINESS, then you have to BE in business. Don't just be an embroiderer that HAPPENS to be in business, be a BUSINESSPERSON that happens to be an embroiderer.

ffokazak · May 12th, 2008

Whoa!

Thanks for the help,

I am already running a very successful contract screenprinting shop, and a streetwear clothing company that I sell to stores.
I don't think it will be a problem to integrate these machines into my business.

So yeah, I am already in business!

Thanks

Oh and your saying two heads would be good?
hahaha

ftembroidery · May 12th, 2008

Andrew, YES. 2 heads would be better than 1. We're on the opposite end of your situation. Been commercial embroiderers for about 12 years, and only been screen printing for about 4+.

ffokazak · May 12th, 2008

Ahhhh,

Yeah no worries about selling this service to my clients, I have outsourced a ton in the last few years.

Never really thought about it as a way to make money, but I guess its possible.

I am more excited to create my clothing lines with this new capabilities.

I've said it once and I will say it again, If I never had to print anyone else's shirts I would be happy. {I would still print but my own designs instead!}

Thanks for the help!

vctradingcubao · May 13th, 2008

2 heads or 2 machines with the same brand would also be very ideal; you can interchange spare parts, etc.

robby · May 13th, 2008

2 machines can be really helpful but if you do mostly bulk orders I recommend you to get 1 machine but with more heads, because it can really save your setup time, etc.
On contrary, if you do more designs in small quantities, 2 single head machines is a better choice.