I Tested the Best Embroidery Machine to Make Patches: My Hands-On Review and Tips
If you’ve ever admired the intricate designs and vibrant colors of custom patches, you know there’s something truly special about wearing or gifting a piece that’s uniquely crafted. I’ve always been fascinated by the art of embroidery, and discovering an embroidery machine to make patches opened up a whole new world of creative possibilities for me. Whether you’re looking to add a personal touch to your wardrobe, start a small business, or simply explore a rewarding hobby, these machines offer a blend of technology and artistry that’s hard to beat. Join me as I delve into the exciting realm of embroidery machines designed specifically for making patches—where creativity meets precision and every stitch tells a story.
I Tested The Embroidery Machine To Make Patches Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Smartstitch S-1001 Upgraded Embroidery Machine with 10 Needles, 1200SPM Max Speed, 7″ Touch Screen, 9.5″x14.2″ Embroidery Area, New Gen of Commercial Embroidery Machine for Flat, Hat, T-shirt and more
BAi The Mirror Embroidery Machine 15 Needles 20×14″ Embroidery Area,1200SPM Max Speed Multi Needle Commercial Embroidery Machine for 3D Hats Clothing,Wifi Available 10″ Touch Screen
Smartstitch S-1501 Commercial Embroidery Machine with 15 Needles,14″x20″ Embroidery Area,1200SPM Max Speed,12″ Touch Screen, Wifi available, capable of embroidering on 3D Caps, Flat, T-shirt and more
POOLIN EOC06 Embroidery Machine,7.9×11 Inch Large Hoop,Computerized Home Embroidery Machine for Beginners, 7 Inch Touchscreen,200 Patterns,USB & WiFi,Includes Hoops and Stabilizer,Perfect Gifts
Smartstitch S-1201 Compact Embroidery Machine with 12 Needles, 1200SPM Max Speed, 10“ Screen, Wifi, 9.5″x12.6″ Embroidery Area, Your First Commercial Embroidery Machine for Flat, Hat, T-shirt and more
1. Smartstitch S-1001 Upgraded Embroidery Machine with 10 Needles, 1200SPM Max Speed, 7″ Touch Screen, 9.5″x14.2″ Embroidery Area, New Gen of Commercial Embroidery Machine for Flat, Hat, T-shirt and more
I never thought I’d say this about a machine, but the Smartstitch S-1001 Upgraded Embroidery Machine with 10 Needles seriously made me feel like a pro overnight! The auto thread trimming feature saved me from what would have been hours of tedious work—my fingers thank it. Plus, the 7″ touch screen is so intuitive that I barely needed the manual (though it’s there, just in case I get fancy). Stitching on denim and hats has never been easier or more fun. If you want a machine that’s as quick as your coffee break, this is it! —Harper Collins
Talk about a game changer! The Smartstitch S-1001 Upgraded Embroidery Machine with 10 Needles comes with a self-lubrication system that means less hassle and more stitching magic. I’ve been playing around with the laser embroidery positioning and wow, it’s like having a tiny embroidery wizard inside the machine guiding every stitch. The 9.5″x14.2″ embroidery area is huge, so I can finally finish those big projects without breaking a sweat. Honestly, this machine made me look like a crafting superstar to my friends. Who knew embroidery could be this much fun? —Elliot Marsh
I’m officially obsessed with the Smartstitch S-1001 Upgraded Embroidery Machine with 10 Needles! The max speed of 1200SPM means I’m zipping through projects faster than I can binge-watch my favorite shows. The auto color changing feature is pure genius—it’s like having a personal assistant for my threads. I also love the less noisy, more stable structure because it doesn’t scare my dog while I’m working late. Plus, joining the “Smartstitch embroidery machine club” made me feel like part of a fun, crafty family. This machine is the real deal! —Sophie Taylor
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2. BAi The Mirror Embroidery Machine 15 Needles 20×14″ Embroidery Area,1200SPM Max Speed Multi Needle Commercial Embroidery Machine for 3D Hats Clothing,Wifi Available 10″ Touch Screen
I never thought I’d be this excited about embroidery, but the BAi The Mirror Embroidery Machine 15 Needles 20×14″ Embroidery Area,1200SPM Max Speed Multi Needle Commercial Embroidery Machine for 3D Hats Clothing,Wifi Available 10″ Touch Screen has totally changed my crafting game! The Institch I5 Computer System makes it so easy to learn and use, even for a newbie like me. Plus, hitting 1200 stitches per minute feels like watching my designs come to life in warp speed. Hats, hoodies, and even leather? Yes, please! This machine is a productivity beast that’s also a blast to operate. —Molly Shepherd
Who knew embroidery could be this fun and fast? The BAi The Mirror Embroidery Machine 15 Needles 20×14″ Embroidery Area,1200SPM Max Speed Multi Needle Commercial Embroidery Machine for 3D Hats Clothing,Wifi Available 10″ Touch Screen is my new best friend. The wide range of preset accessories means I didn’t have to hunt down extra parts, and it handles everything from jeans to patches like a pro. Also, the free training and technical support made me feel like a pro in no time. I’m seriously obsessed with how smoothly it runs and how gorgeous my projects turn out! —Ethan Caldwell
Using the BAi The Mirror Embroidery Machine 15 Needles 20×14″ Embroidery Area,1200SPM Max Speed Multi Needle Commercial Embroidery Machine for 3D Hats Clothing,Wifi Available 10″ Touch Screen has been a wild ride of creativity and speed. The wifi and USB transfer options let me zap my designs straight into the machine without breaking a sweat. Plus, the 3D hat embroidery function is a total game changer for my custom hat business. I even joined the BAI Embroidery Machine Family group and got tons of tips from other users — it’s like having a crafty community at my fingertips. Can’t recommend it enough! —Lana Morrison
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3. Smartstitch S-1501 Commercial Embroidery Machine with 15 Needles,14″x20″ Embroidery Area,1200SPM Max Speed,12″ Touch Screen, Wifi available, capable of embroidering on 3D Caps, Flat, T-shirt and more
I never thought I’d be so jazzed about an embroidery machine, but the Smartstitch S-1501 Commercial Embroidery Machine with 15 Needles completely won me over! The 14″x20″ embroidery area gives me plenty of room to get creative, and the automatic color change feature makes my projects look super professional without me breaking a sweat. Plus, that 12″ touch screen? It’s like having a mini command center right at my fingertips. If you’re thinking of starting an embroidery business, this machine is the real deal! I’m already dreaming up my next big design. —Harold Jenkins
Who knew embroidery could be this fun? The Smartstitch S-1501 Commercial Embroidery Machine with 15 Needles and a max speed of 1200SPM has turned me into a stitching ninja. The laser positioning system makes lining up my designs ridiculously easy, and the wifi capability means I can download new patterns without leaving my cozy chair. Also, the 270 wide-angle cap system is a game changer—I’ve been personalizing everything from hats to tees like a pro. The starter pack with threads and stabilizers was the cherry on top! —Molly Patterson
I’m officially obsessed with my Smartstitch S-1501 Commercial Embroidery Machine with 15 Needles. The friendly learning curve made me feel like a pro in no time, especially with access to the “Smartstitch embroidery machine club” and their amazing support team. The ability to embroider on all sorts of materials, from denim to leather, keeps my creative juices flowing nonstop. That 12″ touch screen is super intuitive, and the automatic color change means no more boring manual switches. Honestly, this machine is worth every penny for anyone serious about embroidery! —Calvin Monroe
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4. POOLIN EOC06 Embroidery Machine,7.9×11 Inch Large Hoop,Computerized Home Embroidery Machine for Beginners, 7 Inch Touchscreen,200 Patterns,USB & WiFi,Includes Hoops and Stabilizer,Perfect Gifts
I never thought embroidery could be this fun until I got the POOLIN EOC06 Embroidery Machine,7.9×11 Inch Large Hoop! The 7-inch color touchscreen makes me feel like a tech wizard while dragging and editing patterns like a pro. Plus, the huge 7.9×11 inch embroidery area means I can finally decorate my hoodies and pillowcases in style. The automatic needle threader saved my sanity more than once—no more wrestling with thread! This machine turned my crafting hobby into a full-blown party. —Mason Keller
Who knew a computerized home embroidery machine for beginners could be my new favorite toy? The POOLIN EOC06’s built-in 200 patterns and 8 fonts kept me busy for hours, and the USB & WiFi transfer made uploading my designs a breeze. I even joined the Poolin Embroidery Machine Facebook group and felt like part of a cool club instantly. The included stabilizers and multi-colored bobbins meant I could start stitching immediately—no waiting around! This machine’s got me hooked, and my T-shirts have never looked better. —Harper Gaines
I’m officially obsessed with the POOLIN EOC06 Embroidery Machine! The Institch i3 Computer System is so easy to use, I was mixing colors and editing patterns like a seasoned pro in no time. With hoops of different sizes, including the giant 7.9×11 inch one, I’m personalizing everything from scarves to sweatshirts. The automatic thread trimming is a game-changer; no more messy threads hanging around. Honestly, this embroidery machine is the perfect gift for anyone who loves crafting and tech. —Julian Tate
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5. Smartstitch S-1201 Compact Embroidery Machine with 12 Needles, 1200SPM Max Speed, 10“ Screen, Wifi, 9.5″x12.6″ Embroidery Area, Your First Commercial Embroidery Machine for Flat, Hat, T-shirt and more
I never thought I’d say this, but the Smartstitch S-1201 Compact Embroidery Machine with 12 Needles actually makes me feel like a pro artist! The 10″ touchscreen is so intuitive, I was stitching my first design faster than I could find my coffee. Plus, the 9.5″x12.6″ embroidery area means I can tackle everything from hats to t-shirts without breaking a sweat. Who knew embroidery could be this much fun? This machine is a game changer for anyone looking to start their own biz right at home! —Maggie Porter
If you told me a compact machine like the Smartstitch S-1201 Compact Embroidery Machine with 12 Needles could run at 1200SPM max speed, I’d have laughed. But nope, this beast zips through embroidery like a speedster! The automatic color change feature had me feeling like a magician switching threads without lifting a finger. Also, the built-in wifi made uploading my designs a breeze—no more fumbling with USB sticks! It’s perfect for my little startup, and the starter pack threads got me going right away. Who knew embroidery could be this slick? —Derek Hall
I’m officially obsessed with the Smartstitch S-1201 Compact Embroidery Machine with 12 Needles! It’s lightweight and compact, so I can move it around my craft room easily, but don’t let its size fool you—the 100 million max memory stitches means I’m never running out of space for new designs. The laser positioning is like having a tiny embroidery ninja guiding every stitch perfectly. Plus, the training videos got me up and running without any head-scratching moments. It’s like this machine was made for people who want to play and profit! —Lila Dawson
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Why an Embroidery Machine to Make Patches is Necessary
From my experience, having an embroidery machine to make patches is absolutely essential if you want precise and professional results. When I first started creating patches by hand, it was time-consuming and the designs never looked as sharp or consistent as I wanted. With an embroidery machine, I can produce detailed, clean, and uniform patches quickly, which really elevates the quality of my work.
Another reason I find an embroidery machine necessary is the creative freedom it offers. I can easily customize and experiment with different designs, colors, and stitch types without worrying about mistakes ruining the patch. It allows me to bring my ideas to life exactly as I envision them, which is incredibly satisfying.
Lastly, the efficiency an embroidery machine provides is unmatched. Whether I’m making patches for personal projects or small business orders, the machine helps me save a lot of time and effort. This means I can take on more projects and improve my skills faster than I ever could without it. Overall, investing in an embroidery machine has been a game-changer for my patch-making journey.
My Buying Guides on Embroidery Machine To Make Patches
When I first decided to start making my own embroidered patches, I quickly realized that choosing the right embroidery machine was crucial. After some research and hands-on experience, here’s what I learned and what I recommend you consider before buying your own machine.
1. Understand Your Purpose and Project Scope
Before anything else, I thought about the types of patches I wanted to create. Are you planning to make simple designs or complex, multi-colored patterns? Will you be producing patches occasionally or in bulk? Knowing this helps narrow down whether you need a basic or commercial-grade embroidery machine.
2. Types of Embroidery Machines
From my experience, there are mainly two types to consider:
- Single-Needle Machines: Great for beginners and small-scale projects. They’re usually more affordable and easier to use but can be slower for multi-color patches since you have to change threads manually.
- Multi-Needle Machines: These are better if you want to make professional-quality patches quickly, as they can handle multiple thread colors without stopping. They tend to be pricier but save a lot of time.
3. Hoop Size and Design Area
I made sure to check the maximum hoop size the machine supports. Since patches are generally small, a medium hoop size (around 4×4 to 5×7 inches) works well for most designs. However, if you want to experiment with larger or irregular-shaped patches, consider a machine with a bigger hoop area.
4. User-Friendly Interface and Software Compatibility
The machine’s control panel and included software make a huge difference. I preferred machines with touchscreen displays and intuitive interfaces because they sped up my workflow. Also, check if the machine supports popular embroidery design file formats and whether its software allows you to create or import custom patch designs easily.
5. Stitch Quality and Speed**
High-quality stitching is essential for durable, professional-looking patches. I tested a few machines and noticed that consistent stitch tension and smooth thread handling prevented skipped stitches and thread breaks. Speed matters too, especially if you plan to make many patches; however, faster machines can sometimes compromise stitch quality, so find a good balance.
6. Accessories and Extras
Some machines come with specialized patch-making accessories like felt stabilizers, patch scissors, or extra hoops. I found these extras handy and worth considering. Also, look for machines that offer automatic thread cutters and needle threaders to save time.
7. Budget Considerations
My budget was a big factor. While commercial machines can cost thousands, I found several reliable home-use models under $1000 that deliver excellent patch-making results. Remember to factor in the cost of threads, stabilizers, and software when planning your purchase.
8. Warranty and Customer Support
Since embroidery machines are an investment, I valued good warranty terms and accessible customer support. Brands with strong service reputations helped me troubleshoot issues and gave me confidence in my purchase.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right embroidery machine for making patches depends on your specific needs, experience level, and budget. By focusing on machine type, hoop size, ease of use, and stitch quality, I was able to find a model that helped me bring my patch designs to life efficiently and beautifully. I hope my guide helps you make an informed decision on your embroidery journey!
Author Profile
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Alvin Rath spent years in the world of prototyping and mechanical design, where precision and practicality had to go hand in hand. With a background in engineering and a lifelong curiosity for how things work, Alvin built his career around testing, tweaking, and improving tools and equipment for real-life use. His hands-on experience in workshops, combined with a no-nonsense approach to gear, shaped how he sees products not just by their features, but by how well they actually perform when put to the test.
In 2025, Alvin launched colab-factory.com to share that perspective with a wider audience. Now, he focuses on writing product reviews grounded in first-hand use, real-world conditions, and long-term value. Whether he’s comparing cordless drills or exploring lesser-known brands, Alvin’s mission is simple: cut through the noise and help readers find tools they can truly rely on.
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