How to start a successful embroidery business in Australia

Starting an embroidery business from home can be a fun and profitable venture. However, navigating the ins and outs of starting a business can be overwhelming. It's important to conduct research and create a solid business plan. This includes assessing your target market, deciding on your niche, how many units you're prepared to create per day/week and then determining your pricing structure.

You'll then need to invest in equipment, materials, and marketing. One of the best ways to succeed in the embroidery business is to offer high-quality, unique products and provide excellent customer service. With hard work and dedication, your embroidery business can thrive in the Australian market.

Yes, multi-needle embroidery machines are a big investment for most. But with the correct planning, equipment and dedication to your small business, it's possible to recoup the cost in no time.

How to choose a multi-needle embroidery machine

When choosing a multi-needle embroidery machine, you’ll need to consider several important factors:

Performance

Consider your goals in terms of production output. Perhaps in 5 years time, you want to be embroidering at least 30 orders per day for your small business. The machine you purchase needs to be able to handle future demand without compromising quality. Different machines have different stitch speeds, displays, needle threaders and other tools to make your life easier. Try to decide which of those align with your goals most.

Cost

The more advanced the features of your embroidery machine, the higher the cost. Our multi-needle embroidery machines range from $8,299 (MB-7) - $18,999 (PR1055X).

Embroidery Area

This is very important. Different machines have different maximum embroidery areas. Once you know what kind of items you’ll be embroidering on, you can then determine which machines will meet your requirements and which ones won’t. For example, someone embroidering on baby clothing likely won’t require as much space as someone embroidering on blankets.

Built-In Patterns and Fonts

Each machine has certain embroidery patterns and monogramming fonts built into it for you to use. More variety generally means more expense.

Number of Needles and Threads

The number of needles a machine has dictates how many colours can be threaded up to use in a design without having to pause your stitching to re-thread the machine. 6 needles means 6 thread colours, 10 needles means 10 thread colours. How many colours will most of your designs require? For example, most logos require multiple colours. However, even if you are using single coloured logo designs, being able to leave your machine threaded up with several of your most popular colours will save you significant time.

Multi-needle embroidery machines we recommend

Benefits of a multi-needle machine

- The free arm makes it possible to embroider more finished items such as socks, sleeves and bags. With additional accessories you can also embroider caps and many more items to suit your business niche. The flexibility of being able to add new accessories and expand your product range as your business grows and changes is reassuring for anyone starting out.

- Having multiple needles means you don't have to pause your stitching to re-thread each time you want to embroider with a different colour. This saves you time at the machine, enabling you to multi-task and be more productive with your time.

- They usually have far higher stitch speeds than single needle embroidery machines.

- A more rigid hooping system than home-style embroidery machines allows them to hold heavier fabrics in place more securely. Specialty hoops for specific garment positions make it easier to hoop for stitching success, even for beginners.

Overall, more professional looking results, on a wider variety of goods and less time required BABYSITTING YOUR MACHINE!

FAQs about multi-needle embroidery machines

What is a multi-needle embroidery machine and how is it different?

Most people start off using a single head, single needle sewing machine with an embroidery module. This can be quite restrictive because every time you want to use a different colour thread to complete your design, you must stop stitching and change the thread. Fewer thread changes = massive amounts of time saved. This is the number one reason people upgrade to multi-needle machines.

Multi-needle embroidery machines are single-purpose (there's no sewing function, they are embroidery only) and built for high-volume production, with speeds of around 1000 stitches per minute. At almost double the speed of a single needle machine, a much higher volume of designs can be completed within a certain time frame. They are also heavier than other home style machines, making them less portable. Usually, they stand alone either on a table or on a stand.

What is a multi-needle embroidery machine used for?

Multi-needle machines can embroider a massive range of materials and items. Some great ideas are: monogramming names onto towels & blankets, adding cute details like flowers and animals onto socks, and putting logos on workwear. The possibilities are endless.

How do you thread a multi-needle embroidery machine?

The process involves firstly placing your threads on a spool holder and then feeding each thread through a series of channels. Every machine is different, but usually there will be guides on your embroidery machine for you to follow with your thread, similar to a sewing machine or overlocker. Once through the guides, the threads will be fed into their respective needle and cut. Use the screen on your machine to adjust your design, assign the colours, and begin stitching.

Are multi-needle embroidery machines worth it?

The perceived complexity of multi-needle machines can be intimidating. You may worry about investing in something you won't be able to use properly. However, the learning process is no different to a sewing machine or overlocker, and really comes down to practice and having the drive to succeed. Consistent use will mean that eventually, threading the machine and using its various functions will come naturally to you. Many people say that once you get the hang of embroidering with the multi-needle, you never go back to a single.

There is currently a huge demand for customized gifts and apparel - everybody wants to own and gift items that are unique. If you price your items correctly and ensure you compensate for materials, set up costs and the time taken to embroider each design, your machine embroidery business could end up being very profitable.