Choosing first (hopefully last) embroidery only machine..... HELP

 I have read some on line about embroidery machines, but I am admittedly ignorant.

I would like a reasonably priced machine (thousand $ maybe give or take).  What I want to do mainly is stuff for my grand children's clothing and maybe some monogramming.  Preferably one that 'interfaces' with my computer and I can get patterns on line for on line (maybe even free ones??).  Nothing too complicated...

Is that reasonable or are my expectations way off??

thanks for any suggestions...  marky'

Hey Marky,
I have been quilt maker for 10 years now. I purchased a convertible sew/embroidery machine 10 years ago. I wanted to make labels for the quilts I make for friends and family.
I started out with a Babylock/Brother Esante/pacesetter with monochrome screen. then I got a Brother Innov-is 4000d excellent choice based on capability and price point. Excellent machine, I finally got my 6 needle emb/only Babylock EMP6 love it! Get a convertible machine, you can sew and embroider. Clothing is an issue thus the emb/only machine.
for pant legs pockets and sleeves without opening up a seam to do it.

I would absolutely take size into consideration. The least expensive ones are 4x4. My little combo one was $600 and only does 4x4, which seriously limits the designs I can use.  Get out a ruler and draw out a 4x4 square and some of the other common sizes and also take a look at embroidery designs that you like - they will always say what size hoop they are for.  My dogs names are Sammy and Loki and my machine can do LOKI but can't do SAMMY in the large size letters that are built into it.

Erin

I recently purchased my first embroidery machine. After much research, I chose the Brother 780D. I think its a great introductory machine! Very easy to use and comes with a 5"x7" hoop. There are many designs available for it and they are easy to get. It is an embroidery only machine but as I already have a great sewing machine, I didn't feel a combo was necessary at this time. In Canada, Brother is having a sale on their embroidery machines this month, so I got $300 off. Not sure if its the same in the US but its a great deal!

Im selling the Bernina Aurora 450 brand new for a 1100. It does embroidery, see my post if interested.