I have the Brother ULT with the largest hoop being 6x10. I bought an adjustable hoop to get the length of the embroidery long enough. This hoop was expensive but when one section of what the machine will stitch out finishes, you don't have to rehoop & TRY to line the design back up. The hoop slides in the frame work for a new section of hooped fabric to enter the sewing field. You can buy the smocking designs for the look of hand smocking just like you buy other designs.

You have to buy a machine to do it all, you can't get one to just do the one thing you have in mind. I suggest used from a dealer who has tradins where people realized that needed more than they bought. You can get more for your money with used.