Before I even start the actual machine embroidered quilt project from the Craftsy class of the same name, I had to get the design files instructor Eileen provides from my computer to my Janome 350 embroidery machine.
Within the course materials, all the necessary embroidery files are provided for most models of machines in both a large and small file, depending on the hoop size capability of each machine. I saved the appropriate .jef files to my computer and unzipped the contents. I copied the files to a USB stick and then inserted the stick into the USB port on my 350e. It took me a few tries to figure out why I couldn't access the files (which I had verified were actually ON the USB stick). The files needed to be saved in a My Designs folder automatically created by my embroidery machine. Once I was able to move the files into that folder, I could retrieve them onto my design screen.
I hooped up some scrap fabric and nervously hit the start button. Sure enough, the machine took over and began stitching out the feathers and stipple stitches! I didn't bother changing thread colour or creating an actual quilt sandwich but I think the design came out as it should. I only have a maximum embroidery hoop size of 5x7" so my quilt will be smaller than the one demonstrated in the class. I think the stitches look good and I'm excited to proceed with the actual steps to complete the quilt. I'm just waiting for my embroidery thread to arrive and I'll get going.
Here's the overall view of this particular part of the design...I must say, it is totally cool to sit back and watch the machine stitch out the pattern, especially something as intricate as feathers and stipples!
this looks wonderful...there's no turning back now!
Posted by: Patsy Thompson | January 17, 2013 at 11:51 PM