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What is Machine Embroidery?

Machine embroidery, also known as digital embroidery, is an automated embroidery technique. It requires a specific machine called an “embroidery machine” Unlike a traditional sewing machine, the embroidery machine is designed to create intricate patterns from digital files. Some machines even combine sewing and embroidery functions.

The principle is simple: the fabric is stretched into a hoop, and the machine moves this hoop to form the design, while the needle performs straight stitches.

The Embroidery Machine

There are different types of embroidery machines: domestic, semi-professional , and professional . This article focuses on domestic embroidery machines. If you are considering purchasing an embroidery machine, you will need to choose between two main types of machines:

• Combined machines, which allow both sewing and embroidery.
• Machines exclusively dedicated to embroidery.

In all cases, the embroidery technique remains the same: the machine performs straight stitches, while a mechanism moves the hoop to stitch the pattern on the fabric.

How Do Embroidery Files Work?

Embroidery patterns are stored in specific digital files (e.g. : .vp3, .pes, .dst, etc.). These files provide precise instructions to the machine, including:

• The movements of the hoop,
• Thread changes for each colors,
• The stops required, for example, to cut fabric in the case of appliqué.

These files can be transferred to the machine via:

• A USB stick,
• A Wi-Fi connection (for recent models),
• Other storage devices.

Some semi-professional machines have multiple needles , allowing you to pre-thread threads for each color of the pattern. This significantly reduces manual intervention and speeds up the process, especially for designs with many different colors.

Embroidery Machine Designs

You can purchase embroidery machine patterns from specialized websites or marketplaces like Etsy. These platforms offer a huge selection to suit all tastes. If you’re looking for colorful and original designs, check out my shop Filafaire!
Each embroidery machine brand uses its own file format. This is generally not an issue since creators often provide pattern formats compatible with the most common embroidery machines.

Create Your Own Designs!

If you have a specific idea in mind, you can also create your own patterns. Here are the main steps:

1. Draw your design on paper or directly in a vector format using software like Inkscape (free software).
2. Next, if your drawing is on paper, scan it and convert it into a vector format using Inkscape, for example.
3. Then, you need to convert your vector drawing into an embroidery file. For this, use software such as Ink/Stitch (a free extension for Inkscape), Embird (paid), or software provided by your machine’s manufacturer to convert your design into an embroidery file.
4. Define the settings: stitch types (linear or fill), colors, density, stitch length, etc.
5. To minimize thread cuts and needle jumps, you will need to optimize the order of the various parts of the embroidery design.

Creating your own patterns takes some practice and patience, but it is a very rewarding activity for thread art enthusiasts.

Threads for Machine Embroidery

Machine embroidery uses two types of threads:

• The top thread, which forms the visible design on the fabric’s surface
• The bobbin thread, thinner, located under the fabric

The Top Thread

The top thread comes in various materials and textures. Once you master the basics with classic embroidery thread, you can experiment with special embroidery threads such as:

• Metallic threads,
• Wooly threads,
• Matte threads, etc.

The Bobbin Thread

To avoid bulk under the fabric, the bobbin thread used in digital embroidery is very thin. It is usually available in white or black. However, it is also possible to use embroidery thread as bobbin thread. If you choose to do this, adjust the tension and perform tests to ensure a good result.

The Stabilizer for Machine Embroidery

The fabric undergoes significant tension during embroidery. A stabilizer is therefore essential to prevent distortion and misalignment of the embroidered design. This stabilizer, placed under the fabric in the hoop, must be suitable for the type of fabric and design. In some cases, it may also be necessary to add a stabilizer on top of the fabric.

The Hoops for Embroidery Machines

The embroidery hoop is a key element, as it moves to form the design. Basic domestic machines often support frames of up to 10 cm x 10 cm. More advanced models allow the use of larger hoops.
If you plan to create large embroideries, choose a machine capable of handling frames of sufficient size. This will prevent you from being limited too quickly in your projects.

What Materials Can Be Embroidered?

Almost all textiles can be embroidered:

• Woven fabrics,
• Knit fabrics,
• Faux leather, etc.

The key is to choose a stabilizer and needle suited to the material.

Special Machine Embroidery Techniques

Machine embroidery offers a wealth of creative possibilities and adapts traditional hand embroidery techniques, such as:

• Free Standing Lace (FSL),
• Appliqué, where pieces of fabric replace parts of the embroidery,
• In The Hoop (ITH), where the entire project is done within the frame, including sewing and embroidery,
• Yarn Couching,
• Cutwork (or “Richelieu” embroidery), where the fabric is cut between embroidered parts.

These techniques allow you to experiment with various embroidery styles, customize your creations, and let your imagination run wild.

Embroidery Machine Settings

Before starting an embroidery, make sure to correctly set up your machine:

1. Top thread tension : start by following your machine’s instructions and testing a reliable design. Then make adjustments if necessary.
2. Use of a stabilizer : choose the right type to ensure impeccable results.

Conclusion

Machine embroidery reinvents an ancient craft and offers endless possibilities for thread art enthusiasts. If you want to try this technique before investing, look into sewing classes, FabLabs, or other associations near you: some provide embroidery machines for use. I hope this article has inspired you to give machine embroidery a try. If you love nature-inspired illustrations, visit my machine embroidery designs shop!