October 8th, 2009 Embroidery Advice – Before You Digitize
I own a website extolling the virtues of embroidery and know a lot of people who use an embroidery machine. I also know that, without exception, they love to embroider. Some even say it seems that the embroidery has taken over their lives as they spend much time in front of your computer. I agree it is rather engaging and fun. This does not sound like you?
Through correspondence very much, I learned that there is something that certainly not all the parties, and that something is scanning. Some digitize their own designs, but most do not. Some do not want or feel the need, some have tried and can not get the hang of it and some are seriously thinking. If you're one of those who are seriously thinking to take the plunge there are some things that I think really should be considered first.
The first thing you think should be the one that really need a scanning software. Scanning software can be very expensive for the expenditure can be justified? Will also be effectively used? This sounds like a strange thing to ask, but be careful. I know I have many software programs that have never used so this concern must be taken seriously. Another point to consider is whether you have the time and resources to invest to learn how to use the software?
It must be remembered that there are other options available, such as hiring someone to do it for you. Most commercial embroiderers and do what gives them more time for embroidery and marketing of their products. The amateur can believe that this is the way to go but just need a digital system from time to time.
There are a number of programs scanning software to choose from. However, all are basically the same that convert images into points of embroidery. The difficulty and the feature is obviously determined by the price. One of the functions that you will see some programs that provide automatic scanning. Although this function, the program may seem useful, rarely be used as graphics to be exceptionally clean to operate at an acceptable level.
If you decide to buy a software to scan, remember you have to learn to blow drawings manually. Each instrument is supplied with the program that must be mastered. Tools to master different types of points between the corners of a point, inside and outside the points and the compensation, among others. Even when this is mastered, it is almost guaranteed that you will need to make changes in the results of imaging.
This article is not intended to discourage the scan, but is trying to make you aware of what is involved. The learning curve is steep and frustrating, but the rewards can be great. And remember, practice makes perfect.