Stitches

what embroidery/sewing machine under $400 is a better choice? Brother 350 or 270?

My wife is big in crafts and sewing and for her birthday i wanted to get her something she would use. we have small children and i think she'd get a lot of use out of a machine that does both, she makes the kids clothes and a ton of other stuff. our 4 year old is big on the Cars movie (lightning, mater, etc...) but the brother pe350 doesn't allow for disney cards. that leaves the brother 270d, but there aren't that many good reviews on it. any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. thanks

Public Comments

1. Check out www.hsn.com they had a machine for around $ 400.00 the other day that looked Great ;)))
2. I would not get either. If she wants to embroider get a decent machine. Go to a sewing dealer and see what older models they have. I have a 10 year old Viking embroidery machine that is wonderful. Using an embroidery machine and embroidery garments is not easy or something to pick up by yourself. Any dealer is going to give her free lessons on how to use her machine and embroidery unit. This is a must. To embroider garments you must learn about hooping, stabilizers, special thread (you don't use regular thread) for both upper and for the bobbin, special needles. There are a lot of tips and tricks to be learned. It will be very frustrating to try by yourself. Those machine at Wal Mart aren't worth the money. I have made wonderful things with my embroidery machine including a silk Christening gown all embroidered in roses. Velvet Christmas stockings, and tree skirts. I have put my daughter's name on all her back packs. I have also taken many many classes at the dealer and at sewing conventions. I do get a lot of use of out of it, but it takes an investment of time, money and effort