Machine Embroidery Basics

Sewing machine embroidery with inbuilt decorative stitches

All combination embroidery/sewing machines are capable of freehand embroidery, quilting and appliqué, with most being capable of producing a selection of decorative machine and embroidery stitches. These simple functions can be combined to achieve pleasing results.

Sewing machine technology has evolved, with most top-of-the range machines now capable of large hoop embroidery designs along with digitising and software that interfaces with some machines, able to access the internet and literally millions of stitch combinations. These design features allow the creative embroiderer unlimited possibilities for designs.

Design software

Many of the latest embroidery machines allow the machine’s hard drive to be updated and upgraded with improvements and additional functions via the internet, to keep the sewing machine aligned with the latest techniques, functions and creative possibilities. An update is free to fix minor bugs or small features in the machine, and an upgrade is a major add-on to the machine that will incur a charge from the sewing machine company.

Machine embroidery with inbuilt decorative stitches

There are many ways to embroider by machine. The following explanations categorise the main techniques:

Appliqué: Applying one piece of fabric onto another and securing the edges with decorative embroidery stitches or satin stitch.

Achieving a free-moving type of stitching using a straight, zigzag stitch or decorative stitch. The feed dogs are lowered and a freehand, clear-view embroidery foot is attached. When this foot is lowered it sits slightly above the fabric, rather than on it, allowing the fabric to be guided by hand rather than the feed dogs. The fabric