StitchFun News
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Wednesday, July 9, 2008

Finding the Good Stuff

Embroiderers frequently want to know why a particular design did not stitch well. Sometimes the problem is with the thread, a dull needle, lint in the bobbin, the choice of stabilizer, or a machine that needs servicing. But most of the time the problem is the design.

A free design from a design exchange may be someone's first attempt at digitizing, or it might be from an established designer who is trying to find new customers. If a site shows only computer-generated graphics instead of actual stitch-outs, those designs may never have been test-stitched. Ask the designer if she has any actual photos or scans. Be leery of any single designer who is too prolific. It takes time to create a well-crafted design. There are exceptions to these rules. A designer may simply prefer the look of computer-generated graphics, or may have family members who help with digitizing.

Before you buy a design, test a free sample from the designer. You will learn what to expect when you buy. If the designer does not offer free samples, ask. Before you stitch that purchased design on a one-of-a-kind garment, test-stitch it on a similar fabric. This takes time and supplies, but could save you from disappointment.

Check the StitchFun Archives Page for the issues from May 23 to May 26 for more tips on how to evaluate a design before you stitch.

You want the "good stuff". Don't waste your time on the rest!

Next issue: water-soluble stabilizers

from Mary Jane Allen of Perfect Little Stitches

Missed an issue of the StitchFun News? Check out the Archives Page.

MOOSE B STITCHIN

HOME OF THE "IN THE HOOP" EMBROIDERY PROJECTS

ZIPPY ORGANIZER 1

Make this handy Organizer
"In the Hoop" NO other
sewing required. Use the
quart size zipper food
storage bags for the
pockets. You can add as
many pockets as you wish.
Lot's of uses for these!
Sewing supplies, purse
organizer, first aide kit,
cosmetics, jewelry,
crayons, craft supplies,
just to name a few.

It is true that some designs can be created
in the blink of an eye. It is also true that it
may take a lot longer to create a masterpiece.
Here is an example of perfection that took
forever to create. Imagine, not one day, not
one week but 4 whole months were needed
to create this little bit of fun, but the end
result was sure worth the wait!!!

 Imagine lace that looks hand made but
takes only a few hours on your machine to
stitch out... That is what I call lace heaven!!!

 The 25% off discount code is still good
for a little while longer: TOYS

This little girl has found a
new way to plant flowers!

The latest release in the
Alphabet Ribbon Collection.
Letters will remain available until
the collection is complete and then
the alphabet will be available
for purchase only.

These embroidered
morning glories look three
dimensional from the light
reflecting off the
embroidery thread.

Actual stitchout shown. Minimal jumps.

Candy Cane Holders

You are invited to join the
StitchFun Forum.
Ask questions about embroidery
techniques or where to find
designs. Share pictures of your
latest project. Embroidery site
owners may place ads. There are
sections for prayers and recipes.

 Enter the July/August Contest.
Everyone who enters is a winner!

StitchFun News
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Perfect Little Stitches.

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Mary Jane Allen is the owner of Perfect Little Stitches and can be contacted at tbearwoman@perfectlittlestitches.com .
Thank you for reading!

Mary Jane
The contents of this newsletter are copyrighted. StitchFun is not a mall and does not sell designs. Please contact the individual designer if you have questions about her designs or special offers.

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