[getY]

Hi I'm starting a small business that sells handmade drawstring bags (initially). I'd like to embroider a "stick figure" and have the ability to customize names. We're deciding between outsourcing or purchasing a machine. So far, the best outsourcing price we've found is $7 from a home business, other prices were $14/$15 per bag.

I also found 2 very old embroidery machine for sell and wondering if that might be a good way to go as well.
1. Brothers LE2-B861
2. Consew #104 Chain Stitch

From reading the post I'm guessing my number one problem would be a repair guy and parts. both machines are under $500. Would you recommend the machines for a beginner? Or has anyone had any experience with them?

Thank you in advance for any assistance.

 

[drdoct]

I don't think they're 'embroidery' machines in the way we know embroidery machines now. I'd say they date back to manual embroidery machines. I would stay away from unless you want a sewing machine that will do a wide satin stitch. I say, start with the $7 a bag and see how you do. Starting off in embroidery is a very expensive undertaking. Buying the machine is the easiest.

I've got an old brother 416a but it runs great. I've seen it's brother the 415 for as low as $1000 on craigslist, but these are usually snatched up quickly. A regular price for something that will actually sew is $3,000 +. Don't forget that you'll also need either digitizing services or software and know how.

That $7 is looking pretty good now eh? ;-)

 

[dianacol11]

probably do it for $5.00 - dianacol@BigPlanet.com

 

[getY]

Thank you so much for the information. I kept looking at the picture of the machine and tried to figure out how it would embroider anything. The $7 is really looking good. The advice helps clear my head and lets me focus on getting my business started. As we grow I'll revisit purchasing a machine.

 

[dianacol11]

we could probably do the embroidery for $5.00 -- let me know thanks and good luck