Starting an embroidery business is one of the most rewarding and creative ways to generate income, whether it's a side hustle or a full-time gig. But like any new venture, the learning curve can be steep. If I could go back and give myself some advice before diving in, here are 5 things I wish I knew that would have saved time, money, and stress.

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1. Not All Machines Are Created Equal — Don’t Let the Brand Name Fool You

One of the biggest mistakes beginners make is overpaying for a machine simply because it carries a popular brand name. Many major embroidery brands charge a premium due to overhead, marketing, and dealer markups, not because their machines are necessarily better.

Here’s what I wish I knew:
👉 The initial cost doesn’t determine long-term success, training and support do.

You can get a high-quality commercial-grade machine at a fraction of the price with the same or better specs, but if that machine doesn’t come with real training and ongoing support, you’re setting yourself up to fail.

I’ve seen countless beginners go with big-name machines, max out their financing, and then stall out when problems arise or when they realize they don’t know how to fully operate their equipment.

💡 Look for value, not just price. A brand like BAi through PrintDirect US offers top-tier embroidery machines  includes unlimited training, and backs it with U.S.-based tech support. That’s what truly matters when you're running a business, not a fancy nameplate.

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2. Digitizing Is Everything

Your machine is only as good as the files you feed it. Early on, I underestimated the importance of quality digitizing. Not all files downloaded from the internet will stitch well. Learning to digitize, or working with a trusted partner, can dramatically improve the quality of your work and reduce errors like thread breaks or poor alignment.

Some software options are easier to use than others, but the key is to understand how stitches translate to real fabric. And never be afraid to invest in high-quality digitizing, it pays for itself in time saved and satisfied customers.

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3. Know Your Pricing Strategy Upfront

One of the biggest rookie mistakes? Undervaluing your time and skills. It’s easy to fall into the trap of pricing too low just to land orders. But you’ll burn out fast. Build your pricing around:

• Stitch count or time

• Material cost

• Setup time

• Machine wear and tear

And don’t forget to account for overhead, taxes, marketing, and shipping. Pricing smart helps you attract the right kind of customers, the ones who value quality and are willing to pay for it.

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4. Start Simple, Then Expand

When you're excited, it’s easy to say “yes” to every custom request, aprons, hats, baby blankets, jackets, you name it. But trying to do it all too soon can lead to frustration, poor results, or burnout.

Instead, master one product type first (like caps or polos). Learn the ins and outs of materials, thread tension, hooping, and customer expectations. Once you build a system that works, you can confidently expand into other product lines.

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5. Marketing Is Half the Battle

You could be the best embroiderer in town, but if no one knows you exist, it won’t matter. I wish I had started marketing sooner and more consistently. Social media, a simple website, and posting customer testimonials go a long way.

🧠 Bonus tip: Post videos of your machine in action. Nothing builds trust and curiosity like seeing a design stitched live, it’s mesmerizing and makes your work feel premium.

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Final Thoughts

Embroidery can be a creative, flexible, and highly profitable business, but only if you treat it like a real business from day one. Avoid these beginner pitfalls and you’ll be ahead of the game. Focus on support, education, and consistency, and your embroidery business will be stitching up success in no time.

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🚀 Ready to start strong?
At PrintDirect US, we’re here to help you succeed with:

• Affordable, high-quality commercial machines

• Unlimited training

• U.S.-based support that has your back

• No middleman markup

Visit printdirectus.com or call us at 786-866-9793 to speak with our team. Your business deserves the best start possible!