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All Hints & Tips




ARCHIVE IT!

Don't just back up, archive!  Everyone knows we should make a back up copy of all our design files but remember if you have a fire or flood that destroys your computer and your "back up" is in the same place it will be gone too.  Store your back up online or in another location such as an office, safe deposit box, or family member's home.
Hint By: Krisann

TOO MUCH STABILIZER?

Did you know it is possible to use too much stabilizer?  Use only the recommended amount for your project, usually no more than two sheets.  If you feel you need more try using a fusible interfacing instead or try starching the fabric lightly before hooping.
Hint By: Krisann

GRIP THE WSS

When stitching free standing lace items, make sure your hoop has enough grip to hold the wss firmly.  Rather than using more than two layers of wss, use scraps along the edges or fold over the sides to make the edges thicker giving the hoop more to hold.

Hint By: Krisann

MARK IT!

When you use a new spool of thread use a "Sharpie" marker to write the color number (or name) ON the spool so you have the exact info when it is time to re-order.  If you have a lot of spools that are already in use, mark them as you use them - hopefully before the sticker falls off.  ;-)
Hint By: Krisann

ORGANIZATION

Download new designs directly into the folder(s) where you would like to keep them instead of a catchall folder.  It will save you a lot of time in the long run and help keep duplicates to a minimum.  Find a free set of empty folders online by doing a Google search for "Embroidery design folders".
Hint By: Krisann

NEEDLES

For the best quality stitch outs use the proper needle size for the material and thread you are using and change your needle after every ten hours of sewing time or more often if you start having stitch problems.
Hint By: Krisann

STABILIZATION

Stabilizer is one of the most important parts of stitching out an embroidery design.  If your stitch out doesn't look like it should, you just might be using the wrong type of stabilizer.  Two simple ways to tell are if there are lots of wrinkles around the design and if the outline doesn't line up.  The stretchier the fabric the more stable stabilizer you need.
Hint By: Krisann

SPRING CLEANING

Spring is a great time for cleaning.  Take your machine in for your yearly tune up in March or April to avoid the "holiday" rush in September.
Hint By: Krisann

UGLY COLORS

Have you purchased a thread set that has colors you would never use for an actual design?  Use them for your test stitch outs and save the "good" colors for the actual designs.
Hint By: Krisann

SHOPPING LIST

When you're running low on a particular thread color write the number, brand, and color name in a small notebook then when you are ready to re-order you will know exactly what you need.
Hint By: Krisann


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