Backing Up Designs

Most copyrights allow you to make a back-up copy of a design. Back-ups protect you in case of a hard drive failure (which usually happens without warning) or in case your original copy becomes corrupt. You'll be glad you have a back-up if you ever accidentally delete or unintentionally copy over the original design.

Many embroiderers copy designs to CD. Use your CD software to copy the files. Write the date on the CD with a permanent marker. Store the CD and list in a safe place -- either in a fireproof safe, or in an off-site location (if your computer is at home, store back-up CDs in your office, a neighbor's house, a safety deposit box or the trunk of your car). If CDs are stored off-site, you might want duplicate copies for easy access should anything happen to the original files.

You can also copy your entire folder of embroidery designs to an external drive. You can schedule automatic back-ups at night if you keep your computer and external drive turned on while you sleep. Use the software that comes with the drive.

Your ISP may provide web space that you can use to store back-up copies. Check with your provider to learn how to upload designs for safe-keeping.

How often you back-up is up to you, usually once a month, or anytime you make a major purchase. Most designers are gracious enough to email you replacement files. If you ask a designer for replacements, be sure to tell her your format and approximately when you purchased and under what name and email address.

Next issue: 3-D designs

from Mary Jane Allen of Perfect Little Stitches

This pattern from Heart N Sole contains a caboose or covered wagon. The
performing bears and horse are stitched in the hoop. Even their clothing is included.

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