General Embroidery Information
Embroidery File Format
Your machine can read embroidery designs that have been created using the BERNINA Embroidery Software and exported as EXP files. When they are exported, a BMP file and an INF file are created alongside the actual embroidery file. The BMP file provides a preview of the embroidery design and the INF file provides the information on the thread colors. If the INF file is missing, the embroidery design cannot be displayed in the correct thread colors and will instead be displayed in default colors. You can set the colors manually in the editing functions.
BERNINA International AG cannot guarantee that embroidery designs that have not been created or converted using the BERNINA Embroidery Software will be correctly read and embroidered.
Design Size
You can enlarge or reduce embroidery designs by up to 20 % in the machine or in the bernette StitchDirect app without any loss of quality.
Upper Thread
Select high-quality embroidery threads for the upper thread, as these have an even thickness and are less prone to breaking. Embroidery created with glossy, fine embroidery thread is particularly beautiful. Thread manufacturers offer a comprehensive range of thread types and colors.
- Polyester with a sheen is durable, break-resistant and colorfast. Polyester with a sheen is suitable for all types of embroidery.
- Rayon is a fine, silk-like fiber with a glossy effect. Rayon is suitable for fine embroidery that is not subject to heavy stress.
- Metallic thread is a glossy thread available in fine to medium thicknesses, and is suitable for special effects in embroidery.
- When using metallic threads, switch off the automatic thread cutter and reduce the embroidery speed and upper thread tension.
- To reduce thread breakage, you can use the thread lubrication unit.
- To prevent the slippery threads from getting caught or breaking, you can place a spool net over the spool.
Bobbin Thread
Special bobbin thread for embroidery is usually only available as black or white thread. If both sides of the embroidery will be visible, you can also use the upper thread in the same color or another normal embroidery thread as the bobbin thread.
- Embroidery bobbin thread is an especially soft and light polyester thread which is suited to be used as bobbin thread. This special bobbin thread ensures a steady thread tension and an optimal intertwining of the upper and bobbin thread.
Stabilizers
Use a stabilizer to stabilize the fabric during stitching. Light weight and knit fabrics are difficult to hoop and tend to deform. A stabilizer prevents the fabric moving or puckering during stitching.
There are various types of stabilizers for various applications.
Stabilizer | Scope of Application | Fabric/Application |
|---|---|---|
Cut-away Stabilizer | Knit fabrics Woven fabrics |
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Tear-away Stabilizer | Woven fabrics |
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Water-soluble Stabilizer | Washable fabrics Projects where there must not be any visible stabilizer residue |
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Topping | Fabrics with a pile or texture |
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Adhesive Stabilizer | Fabrics or projects that cannot be hooped |
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Hydro Stabilizer | For most embroidery applications |
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Iron-on Stabilizer | Iron-on fabrics |
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Embroidery stabilizers can be fixed to the fabric with adhesive spray before being hooped. Starch spray can be used to stiffen the fabric before embroidering.
Embroidery Test
For important projects, it is advisable to test embroider the design on the same or a similar fabric using the same stabilizer, threads and needle.
- An embroidery test enables you to recognize potential errors or difficulties in advance so that you can make appropriate adjustments.
- The embroidery test enables you to check the selected embroidery threads and colors appear on the fabric and adjust as needed.
- The embroidery test enables you to determine the ideal stitch density and apply the correct settings.