Louise,
I too have many designs I keep on usb flash drives and can't pass up their designs when they go on sale. I'm going to have to re-arrange my folders again, rename them. Don't know if I'll do it by the day I ordered them or by group. Emblibrary right now has a cute clothesline that says "Autumn" and it is free and couldn't pass it up. Its the only site I go to and now with the Christmas Club going on its tempting to accrue the points so that one can gain a gift certificate. But I love their designs and always look forward to the new ones every Tuesday. K its been a while. Hope you are doing well!

Thanks, Louise. I am going slightly insane with the deadline for filing insurance claims coming up fast and furious. We were going to rebuild and have jumped through many hoops and spent tons of money just to get ready to tear the house down ... but I'm now sort of thinking that we might just sell the land and get out. Adding to the fun ... my husband has been diagnosed with an aortic aneurysm and is scheduled for surgery on October 7th.

I received an email from Ann the Gran and there was a link to information on how to organize embroidery designs. Thought others might find it interesting as well.

Link: http://community.annthegran.com/blog....mppG81rh.dpbs

I have had a machine for several years and used it rarely. If I am embroidering a Bible verse, what do I use for the colon between chapter and verse?
I have a Brother Innovis 4000D.

I have the same machine. I'll check tomorrow to see if I can help

Scratch that. Machine had to go to the "hospital" today and won't be back till, hopefully, next week. If you still need the answer then, let me know

Question about Embird software: I have loaded the trial version, but it seems to be so limited that it's impossible to really tell how it's going to work. For those of you who have Embird, did you do the trial version first, and if so, did you have issues?

UNLESS I am doing something wrong, which is entirely possible, even likely, there seem to be only a handful of image files I can access. I can't open any of the files I already have on my computer. And worst of all, I can't upload a user's manual unless I have a registered copy. The text tutorials on the website are not helping much since I can't access most of what they are talking about. I would really like to try this out before I spend the money for the full version.

any babylock ellageo's out there?...i have one that is several years old with very low stitch count...i feel guilty about it sitting in the closet...it took the wind out of me on how complicated it was...so i thought i would get it out of the dark...i would like to do some line stitching alternate blocks for quilt tops..maybe celtic...i have some .pes designs and some beautiful threads, but feel overwhelmed with it...i know it takes practice but i gave up....help, please?...monica in tx

Hoping someone can help - I have a BL Unity and getting the tension right is killing me. I stitched a pattern - got through the first 30,000 stitches just fine. all of a sudden I start getting bobbin thread on the top. I changed the needle, increased the tension, no go. Decreased the tension, no go. Suggestions???

So, I went to the Floriani show yesterday and I had so much fun. They had a new person this year, Kathi and she was the funniest and there is no way anyone could have ever fallen asleep in her class. I was doing really well. I knew I wouldn't be buying software because I have the 5D pro and with and my machine still having payments made, no new ones coming. Then I saw the new quilting software and would and did want to buy it so badly. Was very tempted especially after they got my credit approved to shop. But, there was something that I really wanted and I wanted to limit myself, so I used a little self control. Brother has a new scanner out and you can take any design, drawing and scan it into the machine, put a piece of fabric on the mat run it thru the scanner and out comes your cut design; how awesome is that. I'm thinking, how much time it'll save me when I'm doing the happy daisey quilt. Then this morning I'm watching Sewing with Nancy Z and they are doing 30 min doll clothes and I look at the pieces they've cut out, those will fit into my scanner, another time saving feature. It doesn't come out until Oct but the savings was great. I did also buy some stabilizer and a kit for their newest thread, 60 weight, which is great when doing intriqute designs or small fonts, it keeps them looking like they should. I still really want the quilting software but I will wait and also checkout Vikings. The thing that I do like about Brothers is that there is never an upgrade fee and no dongle to worry about. Now I have a credit card for Brother (Tidewater sew n vac) and Viking (Bella's) so I'm set to go. The next two things that I want to get once my machine is paid off is a regular machine to carry to classes since my daughter took off (approved by me) with my Kenmore and the other is a 10 or higher needle machine. The newest one now has the scanner and camera feature on them. Imagine what they'll have next yr when they come around again and my machines are paid off.

It was great that the designs this yr was different from the ones last yr and so was the thread even though the spools were smaller this yr. I had a good time and learned lots and can't wait for my scanner/cutter that comes with classes. Yeah.

I know what you mean about having fun at the Floriani Event, the lady
who did our seminar was from TN and her name was Alette, she had us
all in stitches ("pun intended").

A week later I went to the dealer where I buy my machines for the
"unveiling" of the new machines coming out in 2014, the new Brother
Quattro Trilogy, the new Viking, Juki Air-threading Serger (I WANT that)
and the new Brother Scan n Cut.

I wanted ALL the new machines, and I was so envious of a few of the
ladies at that unveiling show who just pulled out their check books and
wrote checks for the new machines. One lady purchased OVER $85,000
worth of machines, (including a 6 & 10 needle Brother). I just had to
walk away and not purchase any new machines at least not until I can
get a full time job again that pays decent.

I am interested in purchasing a software program too. Have not downloaded Embird yet, because I want to have time to see if I like it. I do understand that you need different plug ins for different things. I am also looking into Embrilliance. I just want to be able to use an existing file and add lettering etc., or combine some existing files. I was told the software program (Embrilliance) will do that. I don't want a full digitizing program. I am interested what the Embird owners have to say. QUOTE=Scraplady;6292705]Question about Embird software: I have loaded the trial version, but it seems to be so limited that it's impossible to really tell how it's going to work. For those of you who have Embird, did you do the trial version first, and if so, did you have issues?

UNLESS I am doing something wrong, which is entirely possible, even likely, there seem to be only a handful of image files I can access. I can't open any of the files I already have on my computer. And worst of all, I can't upload a user's manual unless I have a registered copy. The text tutorials on the website are not helping much since I can't access most of what they are talking about. I would really like to try this out before I spend the money for the full version.[/QUOTE]

I have Brother ULT s and they are almost identical to your machine...lge color screen, cards and floppies. I'd be happy to walk you thru using your embroidering. I've had mine since 2002, 2003-- and been emb'ing since early 90's. if you want to pm me, we can work thru emails and pix if you like.

I just bought a used Pfaff 7570 and I'm looking for ideas for incorporating the small pictures this machine does into a quilt. Any ideas?

The last time I saw this it was not a tension issue, but rather a teeny tiny piece of thread in the bobbin area. We had to take the casing out to find the culprit. The other thing is, if you have a little tension thingy on the side of the bobbin casing, sometimes they can get a piece of lint stuck in there and it messes up everything. I would suggest taking the bobbin assembly area apart and clean out everything. Jane

Are you using prewound bobbins? My new Babylock Spirit which is the same as your machine says that prewound bobbins may have more wax on the thread and that you need to run a piece of paper under the bobbin hook on the bobbin case to clean it. PM me if you would like me to send you an email with that part of my instructions.

Is the pfaff 2170 at all like the pfaff 7570?? Mine will only use 2 hoops . . .I think 80 mm and 120 mm. Does a beautiful job embroidering, but everything is a small version.

I'm back!!! Had a great time on vacation and missed my embroidery machine! Glad to hear that some of you went tp the Floriani seminar. I'm not slated till Oct. but am looking forward to it. Ok gots to go my MS is acting up on ,y fingers having a hard time typing :(

[ATTACH=CONFIG]436972[/ATTACH]This is just an experiment. I have not been able to get pictures to upload, so am trying to do so by attachment and am seeing if it will work. Anyway if it does go thru, here is a picture of a quilt I did. I embroidered the blocks on the machine and pieced the rest. This is a gift for my nephew and his new wife.

Finally it worked.

That is just beautiful!!!!!!

Almond that is just gorgeous!

Beautiful quilt!

What a great idea to share ideas about Embroidery! I have a babylock Ellageo Plus which I need to learn how to use more. I've been really stumped to know how to incorporate embroidery with my love of quilting. This will be so helpful to read all that you gals are doing!

almond, love your red and white embroidered quilt, really like the way you set it together. :thumbup:

Threads for EM
 

I have been looking and looking at EM for sometime now, but have to get to a dealer to see one in action. But my head is just swimming with all the options out there. Am looking for a machine that is the best bang for the buck. But also am looking at all the expense afterwards. Like the threads, my question and advice from all the ladies and gents, is what type of threads are you most happy with and give you the best look. I know there is a big difference in threads, and also do you need to buy the prewound bobbins, are they special or something that I am missing. Hopefully will be getting a machine before snow flys. So excited just looking to see what is out there. I have a real good sewing machine that I am really happy with a Jamone 6500, so I am leaning towards just a EM.

I am new to machine embroidery also GrandmaJeanne, I just purchased the Janome 350e...it is awesome very user friendly as far as the other costs related I was recommended to Isacord polyester thread which is very reasonably priced. As in anything the start up costs can be expensive at first but once your supplies are established it's not that bad. A spool of 1000 meters goes a long ways when u think of all the colors that are in one design. Good luck on your quest

I love my Babylock Ellageo Plus. No problems. But I must say that if I knew then what I know now about the expense of good thread, designs, software and the zillion choices of stabilizers, I dont think I would go there. I have a great Janome 6600 and have tons of quilting projects to keep me busy forever. Its a fun toy, but...

I have the Viking Designer 1 and the Viking Ruby Deluxe. I use the D1 for sewing and am learning to use the Ruby Deluxe for embroidery. I've only had it 2 weeks! It has 5D Embroidery Software with upgrade to 6 next month...

I am a Baby Lock girl. My first embroidery machine was the Ellure Plus then went to the Ellageo (upgraded to the plus) and a few months ago I bought the embroidery only Spirit. All are great and the more you spend, the more the perks. I use the Ellageo to sew on and can embroidery at the same time using the Spirit. The Baby Lock and Brother machines use the pes format. Designs are readily available. I use Madeira and Sulky thread primarily. Sulky is on sale frequently. Takes lots of colors and that is what makes the thread such an expense. I also buy inexpensive tear away stabilizer on ebay and it lasts a long time. I buy the specialty ones at the sewing machine store but use the inexpensive on 75% of all projects. I don't use prewound bobbins.

I think the dealer is about the most important when deciding on any machine - sewing, embroidery, quilting. My dealer was wonderful but have lost lots of the better employees through the years so now it is just okay.

Anxious to see which machine you choose. Good luck!

SingerSewer so glad to hear the Spirit is working great for you! I too am a Babylock girl. Though I must say that with almost every embroidery machine I've had it has a mind of its own when it comes to thread. When I had the Ellure plus it loved the Sulky but not Madeira even after playing with the tension. Now with the Spirit It o nly likes the Sulky and Floriani threads. I agree I only purchase the Sulky when its on sale at Joanns but the Floriani threads are so gorgeous in color and sheen. I get a spool for $4.20 ea at my lqs since I bought my sewing machine the Melody from them. I'm also going to the Floriani Sewing & Quilting Seminar next month. And as for the stabilizer I used a different kinds except for the washable one. I use Floriani or the one from Joanns which is great and much cheaper :)

thanks that makes it easier

My daughter bought a BL Spirit about a month ago and is loving it. It's her first "sewing" machine!

The Spirit is an embroidery only machine. Has no sewing functions

There are so many great options in the market place for embroidery machines. I would decide on a general price point and keep that info in your head. Just ask about the MSRP price. Dont get caught up in the selling step of "price" until you are sure of what you want to purchase. That is the LAST step in your buying decision. You WILL adjust that figure because you should look at the range of models, features, price points, etc. And you will likely adjust that price point higher after you get a real idea of the cost to purchase.

Keep a file of of brochures, notes, etc with you when shopping. My head just spun when I was shopping for my machine in 2006 or whenever it was. I went from a 599$ brother Disney entry level s/e from Walmart choosing A Janome 9700 for $2200 . I was shocked too but until you shop, compare, you really dont have an idea of where you might end up.

do your homework "online" AFTER you visit the dealers. Why? Because then you have an idea of which models interested you, the brand(s), the features and functions, the MSRP (it is not the final price you will pay, it is a general benchmark for the price range you are able/willing to pay). As you compare models online...each brands website gives you a comparison tool for you do a side by side option comparison. Very helpful esp. By now you have the "price" to keep in mind and you will compare the models in that price point.

once you have narrowed your choice to purchase to one Model, then you start negotiating with the Dealer on the price. be prepared to purchase once you get to a price that you are happy with and can afford, being realistic and likely compromising. I woul pd check out the sewing machine reviews and the " pricepaid" that is usually given in the review. You use this i fo as a guide taking into account what Year that review was written. At least it is some info to consider. You really dont know what promo pricing, options or accessories might have been thrown in just by the info shared.

what I learned from the experience of shopping for my s/e machine was that I got caught up in the number of built-in designs...never have used them to this day but, the newer machines may include nicer lettering built in. I discovered that I will never stitch out a design that takes longer than an hour. My Giga hoop has never been used. 80$ wasted thinking that it would be nice to have! A lot of TOL machines come with a huge hoop now. But, not important to me.

I have been happy with my choice but I am looking to upgrade to a machine with the newer bells and whistles such as USB connectivity, color screen, on screen editing, etc. So the cycle begins for me. I have 100's of $$ in embroidery thread begging to be used up. That is another conversation....the embroidery supplies are expensive. Buy thread as you need it for a project. I found that the colors included in those "thread chests" were never colors I actually used.

sorry this is long.

good luck!
sandy

Wow! Absolutely gorgeous.

Threads for EM
I have now owned a Ruby and now a Viking Diamond Deluxe. I buy what ever I want and my machines have both had no problems. Every once in a while, I might have to set the spool on the table or change the needle or slow it down but that is rare. I figured that for what I paid for my machines it should take what ever I want it too and its worked out great. I use Robinson-Anton, floriani, Sulky, Jenny Haskins, Prencia, Coats n Clark, etc and have no problems. I don't do prewound bobbins but know lots who do. I just have lots of spares and try to match the thread type on the spool with whats in the bobbin, that's my only rule. I do love my machine and all that it does and just starting to get into digitizing, very slowly. I just did the quilt A Duck says Quack by Smith Street Designs where it is a combo of piecing and emb and it turned out great. I can't wait to back it and quilt it. If I can keep it away from my DGD long enough, she loves the emb animals that have textured fabric on them. I'm making her a book with the same designs for Christmas along with a cheap version of an AG Doll and lots of clothes. She's only two so I'm not willing to pay too much for the doll, especially when I just got my 12th grand child and 13 is due in Oct and my 3rd great grandchild is due in April. Got to make those dollars stretch. I buy a few at a time trying to get different shades in what ever color I buy because that's one thing that I've learned, almost every design uses different shades of the same color to highlight the design. Good luck and enjoy.

Exactly right! Now that she has caught the embroidery bug, I'm hoping that she will soon start making projects that require a regular sewing machine instead of just embroidering pre-made items. :-) I should clarify that as someone who has never used any type of sewing machine that she has found the Spirit to be very user-friendly.

Thanks, to all that responded to my question. But I am considering all that was said, but that too, I am sort of afraid when I do get into the store I will see that the price I want to give, and the machine that I want, won't even come close. But yes, some of the options on these machines I don't feel, I probably will never use. Will consider that, also. I never heard of the BL Spirit, will look into that one also. Laura, you did say it was user-friendly, right. That's a must for me----

QuiltyLouise, I know I could spend a fortune on these things but remind myself of the priorities, right now is fixing my house so I've hesitant to buy too much. Some of those people buying those high ticket items, especially when its that much is either for teaching or reselling. My LQS buys slightly used machines at the conventions and then sells them at her shop, she saves a lot and so do customers and when I got mine I got all the things a new one would have given me but saved over 5000 on a new one. I really loved the Brother cutter/scanner. I can see lots of uses for it so I'll be on pins and needles until it gets here and I can take classes to get the best benefits out of it. That was my biggest splurge so I did pretty well and its 12 mos no interest, plus I got the newest Floriani thread for monogramming so that's another bonus. I try to reward myself every once in a while, I do nothing else but go to work, watch my grand kids on my days off and constantly clean my house due to kids and dogs so this is my only vice, at least its only bad for my wallet but very good for my health because it calms me down and lets me forget about the rest of the crap in my life. One day I'll make money from it, I hope. I did make money from sewing this yr but not embroidering but it all adds up. Now if it would add up to more, I'd be really happy. I want a 10 needle machine after my Diamond Deluxe, my Brother Scanner/cutter and my software is paid off. By then, my house will also be paid off and it'll be alot sweeter.