Need advice- what machine?

[megganmarie]

Hi, I'm Meggan.  I just joined the group and I'm looking for some help...

Over the past 4 yrs, I've been spending god-only-knows how much money buying my DD appliqued and embroidered clothing, bags, blankets, etc.  It just dawned on me... Why not get my own machine and learn to do it myself?  What machine would you suggest for a beginner?  I would prefer one that can hook up to my laptop.  Also- are all embroidery machines capable of doing appliques?  What supplies will I need to buy to start out?

Any and all suggestions, advice, and bits of information would be appreciated. 

[lmeyer7716]

i suggest finding an All Brands (www.allbrands.com) or somewhere that sells embroidery machines around you and going talk to them.  they are usually really helpful.  i don't know much.  just have a cheap embroidery/sewing combo.  i know even my cheap machine can do appliques so i would think any of them can.