This title provides everything sewing machine users need to know, from the types and formats of embroidery design available, how to get them off the internet and into their machine, how to stabilise fabric, which threads and needles to use, and how to use these designs creatively for beautiful results.

Digitizing Made Easy is for every embroidery machine user and commercial machine embroiderer looking to better understand and utilize digitizing software. The author's time-tested method, demonstrated in 250 step-by-step color photos will help you to better identify the tools of modern digitizing, and the best processes with which to use them. With chapters covering artwork, auto-digitizing, stitch types, mapping and sequencing, underlay and blending, readers will quickly develop a solid foundation with which to explore the endless possibilities of digitizing.

When you use your sewing machine like a pencil to draw or paint with thread, you are entering a wondrous world where almost any effect is possible. This book provides the ideal jargon-free beginners guide for those who want to explore free-machine embroidery. With a collection of creative sewing projects and individual sections for mastering basic techniques, this book guides you, step-by-step, through the basics of free machine embroidery. -Find out if your sewing machine is capable of machine embroidery -Get familiar with your sewing machine and how it works -Discover the essential threads, needles, and fabrics you will need for free-machine embroidery -Learn by doing -Discover how to embellish your appliqué designs -Discover how to write with a needle -Learn how to do free-motion quilting -Learn how to draw pictures with your sewing machine -Learn how to use dissolvable fabrics

“A spectacular encyclopedia of embroidery, sharing valuable techniques passed down through the generations . . . you’ll wonder how you ever worked without it.” —Sew Magazine Enjoy the tranquility of slow stitching with this step-by-step, visual guide to 149 embroidery stitches, motifs, and extras. Go beyond basic color theory–robust color charts take the guesswork out of choosing thread, silk ribbon, buttons, beads, and trims. Then take your embroidery to the next level with luxurious seam treatments and stunning stand-alone designs. Bestselling author Christen Brown’s traditional and contemporary techniques are showcased in a colorful gallery of crazy-quilted projects. “An overview of embroidery stitches and techniques as well as inspiration for embroidery projects . . . She dissects several of her pieces, summarizing the color palette, decorative elements, and stitches used.” —Library Journal

I do not know how long ago embroidery started, but I think through the centuries, women have turned to needlecraft and embroidery for pleasure. My grandmother told us that in her days, the young ladies did not work and was taught to do needlework and embroidery. Although times have changed and the love for embroidery still remains strong, women sadly neglect this art as they do not have time. The sewing machine is a quicker medium for embroidery and decorative stitching. You can make a room look homely, cozy, and beautiful with needlework and embroidery. It can be embroidered tablecloths, runners, cushions, table mats, wall hangings, pictures, bed linen, and many more. All these things can become possible to you by taking each page step by step and practicing the various stitches and methods. To those who are already experienced machinists, sewing machine embroidery will be much easier. Others may find it a little more difficult, but it can be overcome with a lot of practice and perseverance. This type of machine embroidery needs a lot of practice, but once you acquire control of the machine and embroidery hoop, there is no end to the possibilities of the work that can be done. I hope that the sewing machine no longer will be regarded as the machine for sewing hems, mending, curtains, and dressmaking but as the means for enjoyment in producing beautiful machine embroidery for the home and family.

Learn the art of thread painting from Instagram sensation Michelle Staub Cats and dogs seem to always have a paw planted firmly in our hearts. Capture the life in their eyes and the texture of their fur with a unique embroidered pet portrait! Insta-famous artist Michelle Staub puts a modern spin on thread painting with her easy-to-learn approach. Get started with 4 basic embroidery stitches, and follow the detailed tutorials to hone your skills. Capture awe-inspiring details of your pet with lessons in full-color thread painting or go clean with a simple line drawing—the choice is yours. Learn to personalize your art piece with names, dates, and decorative accents. With 20 sample patterns to customize, you can easily recreate any breed! Paint stunningly realistic pet portraits with just a needle and thread Try your hand at two styles—minimal outlines and incredible full-color renderings Make it modern with floral garlands, personalized banners, and crisp lettering Start today with 4 easy stitches and 20 customizable projects