17.WildCard

This week, I have to try something new. I decided to explore embroidery with the Brother Embroidery Machine.

Programs that I Used:

• Inkscape + Ink/Stitch

Embroidery Options in Ink/Stitch

To install the extension"ink /stitch" i had to go to this page.

1. Basic Stitches
   • Fill Stitch: For filled shapes; ideal for large areas.
   • Running Stitch: For lines.
     • Solid line = zigzag stitch.
     • Dashed line = straight running stitch.
   • Satin Stitch: Best for curves and smooth edges.
     • Convert from a line via:
       Extensions > Ink/Stitch > Satin Tools > Convert Line to Satin
2. Embroidered Lettering
   • Use built-in fonts:
     Extensions > Ink/Stitch > Lettering
   • Supports multiline text, font selection, and scaling.

How to Create an Embroidery File with Ink/Stitch

1. Set Up Your Document
   • Go to File > Document Properties.
   • Set your canvas size to match your embroidery hoop (The machine will only embroider the part you configure).
2. Create a Vector Design
   • Draw your design using Inkscape tools (shapes, paths, text).
   • Fill the areas you want to embroider with color.
   • Use strokes (lines) for running or satin stitches.

   You can also import an image and convert it into a vector. Here's an example:

   

   For this task ,I used a logo that I made in Week 2:

   

   logo design

3. Assign Stitches

   Depending on your design, use different stitch types that i explained before

4. Embroidered Lettering
   • Use built-in fonts via:
     Extensions > Ink/Stitch > Lettering
   • Supports multi-line text, font selection, and scaling.
3. Parametrize the Design
   • Select all objects or parts of your design.
   • Go to:
     Extensions > Ink/Stitch > Params
   • you can adjust stitch settings (length, angle, fill type, etc.).
   • Click Apply and Quit.
4. Add Extra Features (Optional)
   1. Push/Pull Compensation
      • Prevents distortion caused by fabric tension:
        • Overlap filled areas.
        • Or adjust parameters:
          • Expand for fill stitches
          • Pull Compensation for satin stitches (e.g., 0.5 mm per side)
   2. Thread Trim (Cut Thread)

      Avoids floating threads between distant design parts:

      1. Select the object or segment.
      2. Go to:
         Extensions > Ink/Stitch > Commands > Insert Stop Command
      3. Choose Thread Trim.
      4. Click Apply and Quit.
   3. Color Sorting
      • Reduces thread color changes.
      • Group objects by color.
      • Use:
        Layer > Layers and Objects
      • Reorder sewing sequence:
        Extensions > Ink/Stitch > Edit > Re-stack objects in order of selection
5. Preview Options
   • Stitch Simulator:
     Extensions > Ink/Stitch > Visualize and Export > Simulator
   • View a realistic preview of your design.
6. Save the File
   • First, save as SVG to keep it editable.
   • Then, save a copy in your embroidery machine's format.
     For Brother machines, use the .PES format.

• Machine model: ND1850L

1. Check the Thread

Make sure you have enough thread. If not, you will need to fill the bobbin.

2. Winding the Bobbin (Lower Thread)

To fill the bobbin:

• Follow the arrows on the machine (they show the correct path).
• Place the thread spool on top.
• Wrap the thread around the guides as shown.
• Push the bobbin to the right until it clicks.
• Press the orange button to start winding.
• The machine stops automatically when the bobbin is full.

3. Insert the Bobbin

• Open the bottom compartment.
• Place the filled bobbin inside.
• Follow the diagram near the bobbin case to guide the thread correctly.

4. Thread the Upper Thread

• Place the main spool of thread on top.
• Follow the threading path (numbers 1–6).
• Use the automatic needle threader (press the lever or button).

5. Hoop the Fabric

1. Place stabilizer behind your fabric.
2. Position the fabric and stabilizer over the inner hoop.
3. Place the outer hoop on top and press down evenly.
4. Attach the hoop to the machine until it clicks into place.

6. Insert the USB and Load the File

1. Insert your USB stick into the machine.
2. Make sure your file is saved in .PES format.
3. On the screen, go to the USB icon and open your file.
4. Tap on the design you want to embroider.

7. Position and Adjust the Design

• Once the design appears on the screen:
  1. You can move it using the arrow buttons.
  2. You can resize or rotate it if needed.
  3. Make sure it fits inside the hoop area shown on screen.
• Use the preview function to check that everything looks correct.

8. Start Embroidering

1. Double-check that the fabric is tight, the thread is loaded, and the hoop is attached.
2. Press the Start button.
3. The machine will stop automatically when a thread color change is needed.
4. When the embroidery is ready, the machine will stop.

Files

• Inskape File

I enjoyed trying this machine and explored some of the possibilities using Inkscape. I look forward to using it in future projects.