Brother SE-270D Computerized Sewing Machine

This is my first embroidery sewing machine [$209.00]. It is easy to use machine once the directions are read. Purchase good polyester embroidery threads otherwise thread breaks often.
Various web sites will allow you to download free embroidery design patterns, but you must buy a Brother PED-Basic software, hardware, and rewritable memory card [$129.73]. I have an HP computer with Windows xp and USB ports to download free Inet embroidery designs and write designs to memory card [in .pes format]. Memory card is of odd type/shape used primarily in embroidery sewing machines.
The SE270D is limited to only embroider a maximum sized design of 4"x4" even if you use the 5"x7" hoop. If you buy a larger hoop, you still are limited to 4"x4" or smaller designs. The advantage of a larger hoop is that you do not have to remove hoop as often since you can adjust design position within hoop with the SE270D sewing machine.
The SE270D can embroider alphabets capitals & small in two fonts. To put blank space between words arrow over to the underscore alphabet; to put a second, third, etc line, use the adjust location on-screen.
If you embroider on stretchy-knit material, you need to purchase a "stiffener" backing. If you embroider on hand towels, use a water-soluable stiffener. If you embroider on non-stretch fabric, the "stiffener" is not necessary.
I love this sewing machine. Cost is affordable. It was intimidating at first. Be patient. It does work. I love the built-in Micky Mouse designs.
It is advantageous to purchase extra bobbins and white polyester bobbin threads. Winding bobbins on SE270D is easy and fast. I use rubber bands on thread spools to prevent unraveling of thread.