Creative Machine Embroidery Summer 2021

Dear Readers, With this issue, we’re celebrating 20 years of machine embroidery magic! With the release of the first stand-alone issue of Creative Machine Embroidery back in 2001, we couldn’t have guessed what was in store for us and this community: the awe-inspiring technology advances, the highly specialized products that would be imagined and created, the artistry and talent that would be fostered, the many independent businesses that would flourish. What a span of years to witness, especially through the lens of machine embroidery. And now, to celebrate! In this issue, we’ve gathered a few of our favorite things for you: • our favorite reader tips from 20 years of incredible advice shared (page 6) • must-know techniques for stabilizer, placement, tools and more to make your machine embroidery successful…

WRAP RECYCLE Recycle a plastic wrap or foil container, using is as a tear-away stabilizer storage and cutting tool. DeeDee L., email DENSE DESIGNS If tear-away stabilizer falls off the project during stitching because the design is too dense, rehoop the project with a cut-away stabilizer. Jackie N., email HOOP STATION Store hoops and rulers in a vertical desk organizer or vertical napkin holder. Jackie T., Facebook WRAP STAR Cut flexible tubing into sections and slice down one side to store bobbins and keep them dust-free. Dana D., Facebook PEANUT PERFECTION When using metallic threads, place a packing peanut at the beginning of the threading on your machine to straighten the thread and avoid curls. Lara T., Facebook FINAL TOUCH When making magnets, key chains or other small in-the-hoop projects…

1. We all have been in that position when someone picks up our fabric scissors to cut paper or open a package. In addition to labeling your scissors, share your reverence for your fabric scissors with this great enamel Fabric Only Pin designed by Bearface Design from Spoon and Spindle. This is the perfect gift for a sewist and avid pin collector to adhere to a jacket or bag. ($10.00 CAD ($7.75); spoolandspindle.ca) 2. After all the work of stitching and embroidering a garment or project, a custom label is the perfect finishing touch. We love these Sew-In Labels from Sew to Grow that come in a multi pack filled with seven different and unique designs sayings including “My Size,” “I Rock this Frock” and “Perfectly Imperfect”. These labels are…

SYSTEM The needle system is denoted on the package by a series of numbers/ letters (A). There are many needle systems for commercial machines, but most home machines use the 130/705H system. Check your machine manual for the needle system that your machine uses. The needle system number is listed on all needle packages, regardless of the needle type or use. The needle system number may be followed by a dash and another letter. That letter refers to the needle type, such as 130/705H-J for Jeans or 130/705H-E for Embroidery. SIZE The needle shaft size is denoted by a set of two numbers, such as 80/12, on the package. The first number is the European metric number, and the second number is its American equivalent. The larger the number, the…

Consider the following guidelines when deciding how often to change a needle: • In general, change the needle for every four to six hours of embroidery time. Change needles more often if embroidering heavyweight fabrics. • Change the needle any time the threads in the design appear less than desirable. • Change the needle before embroidering on lightweight or sheer fabric. A burred needle could damage the delicate fabric. • If you experience thread breakage or fraying, first try rethreading the needle. If the thread breaks again, change the needle. • If thread loops appear on the fabric right side, change the needle. • Change the needle immediately if you hear any unusual or popping sounds.…

Sheers encompass a variety of transparent or semi-opaque fabrics and fibers, such as pure silk chiffon, polyester organza and nylon tulle. Some sheers are available with beautiful iridescent or metallic finishes. While most sheers are suitable for embroidery, the stiffer varieties are the easiest to work with. Sheers are ideal for making eveningwear, elegant daywear, bridal wear, dance costumes and special occasion garments. Soft sheers, such as silk chiffon, are used for blouses or flowing dresses. Stiff sheers, such as organza, are ideal for overlays and look nice with coordinating or contrasting satins and silks. Use organza when making corsages and appliqués. Use tulle when making bridal veils or overlays for bodices. As a general rule, choose loose, simple styles with minimal seams. For fitted garments, use sheers as overlays…