Creative Machine Embroidery Spring 2021

Dear Readers, Oh, spring… that time when the weather starts warming, the daffodils and tulips start peeking up their heads and we start planning embroidery for a whole new season. By the time this issue comes out, I am more than ready to move away from snowy motifs to pastel colors and pretty florals… and this issue is full of just those. Confession time: I love bee motifs. So it’s easy to guess that I’m a huge fan of the Honeycomb Handbag. Combining yellow and black linen with colorblocking and contrasting embroidery, this bag checks all of my style boxes. It’s definitely on my to-make list for this season. And while we’re on the subject of bags, check out the spectacular Peekaboo Lace Tote on page 24. Made by embroidering…

STABLE SMARTS Utilize a hanger that features an open end as storage for stabilizer rolls. Missy L., Facebook SIMPLE SQUARES Use a 6” square or a 9” square from coordinating fabrics when stitching out sample designs. Use the sample squares for a funky patchwork quilt. Becky H., Facebook FLEECE FLOP I recently embroidered on red fleece, and to my dismay, the fabric stained the bed of my machine red. I tried various types of cleaners to no avail. I almost gave up, but then I tried using a Mr. Clean Magic eraser. With a lot of elbow grease, the red stain practically disappeared. Emily F, email BOBBIN BIND When stitching out large projects, pre-wind multiple bobbins so you don’t have to stop embroidering if the bobbin runs out. Christine S.,…

1. Wouldn't you just love to see what your embroidery design would look like on your fabric before you stitch it out? You can on the Baby Lock Solaris 2 Sewing and Embroidery Machine with its new revolutionary IQ Visionary™ Technology. If you’ve struggled with placement, the built-in projector displays a vibrant full color projection of your design stitches for precise positioning and provides the confidence to press start on the machine. This machine also includes amazing additional features like a camera-detecting buttonhole foot, large 13” workspace, and 861 built-in decorative stitches. (See dealer for pricing; babylock.com) 2. There is no better time than now to embrace powerful women throughout history. Instead of hanging a photograph of an inspiring icon on your wall, make it yourself — and with these…

IN A BIND Create a binder to file design information sheets for easy visual reference. Having every design in your collection at your fingertips makes it easier to find designs when you’re ready to begin embroidering. • Most designs, whether purchased on a USB drive, a CD-ROM or as a digital download, come with a printed information sheet. This sheet includes a thread chart, sewing information and design images rendered at full size. This information sheet may also include the name of the collection, the digitizer (if applicable) and the company that sells the designs. Store each information sheet in a protective sleeve in a binder (A). • Review the various information sheets to determine how to categorize your designs. Organize them using a system that makes sense to you.…

If not already listed on the information sheet, add the embroidery collection name and number. Find category inspiration on your favorite embroidery design websites. See how they organize their designs to help you determine how to organize yours. Extract all ZIP files before storing in a folder. In Windows, right-click the file and select “Extract All,” and then follow the prompts to save the files. On a Mac, double-click the zipped file; the uncompressed files will open in the original zipped file location.…

Select vinyl that has a sturdy backing to support embroidery designs. Vinyl is available in a variety of weights, making it suitable for both fashion and home décor items. Oilcloth is similar to vinyl and has a shiny surface. Both vinyl and oilcloth are waterproof, stain-resistant and ideal for projects that require easy cleaning. USES Use vinyl when making table runners, place mats, picnic and toiletry bags, bibs, seat covers or aprons. Vinyl doesn’t have a lot of give, so use it for nonconforming garments, such as vests or skirts. Vinyl is also suitable for bags or belts and as trim for fashion garments. SEWING TIPS Vinyl fabric damages easily due to needle penetrations. Use a size 75/11 needle and a medium to long stitch length. Substitute weights or tape…