Where Can I Find Instructions for Machine Embroidery on Knit Sweaters?
Conducting broad Internet searches for delicate machine embroidery projects usually produces an array of incomplete instructions. A narrow search for embroidery on knit sweaters generally produces specific project geared for knitted yarn. Project instructions must include preparation directions such as stabilizer sheet information, machine hooping guidelines as well as alternate embroidery techniques to ensure the knitted sweater is not distorted or stretched during the embroidery process. Certain projects also include embroidery machine models geared for digitizing machines as well as older model versions. Books as well as the on-line embroidery community generally have helpful tips and downloadable patterns.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Conduct an Internet search and look for "machine embroidery instructions on knitted sweaters." Conduct a second search by including your embroidery machine model. View several sites prior to attempting a project and make sure preparation details and directions are included with the instructions.
-
2
Review on-line embroidery and knitting blogs which often include step-by-step photos and instructions along with helpful tips. Message boards and comments are generally filled with additional tips as well as specific problems and solutions experienced by community members during projects.
-
-
3
Visit your local library or bookstore and search for books geared for machine embroidery on delicate textures and materials. For instance, dense or high stitch count embroideries spread knitted yarns causing the stitches to disappear into the knitted pattern. Pre-construction tips generally indicate the information is geared for delicate knit garment embroidery. For example, tips such as pre-washing and line drying the knitted garment to naturally shrink the yarn prior to embroidery are geared for delicate textures.
-
4
Review books or on-line sources including stabilizer sheet guidelines and application instructions. Bear in mind, knitted yarns are loosely constructed and these sheets support and ensure the knitted surface is taut during the embroidery process. It is applied at the back side of the knitted piece. A water soluble stabilizer is also often applied at the top of the knitted surface, referred to as the topper. This process ensures the embroidery does not shift. The topper also makes certain the stitches are visible on top of the knitted yarn by preventing the yarn from spreading. Guidelines also include alternatives, like implementing a poly-mesh for the back side of the embroidery ensuring a soft and flexible backing.
-
5
Review several instructions offering different embroidery methods such as the floating technique. This procedure prevents fabric distortion, which occurs when loosely knitted or woven textures are mounted onto the top and bottom embroidery hoop frames. The floating technique is executed by spraying embroidery adhesive onto the stabilizer to secure it in place. The top frame is used as the guide during embroidery and the bottom frame is not used for mounting the texture. This process prevents the yarns from distorting, stretching or pulling apart.
-
6
Choose instructions with preparation details such as basting the outer edges of the stabilized knitted yarn with your embroidery machine. A loose basting stitch ensures the knitted yarn and stabilizer sheets are locked in place during the embroidery process.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Download on-line instructions for a project test. Generally a small section of the project pattern is provided to test the procedure and embroidery stitches on a similar knitted yarn scrap or old sweater prior to applying the embroidery on your project sweater.
References
- Photo Credit Mimi Haddon/Photodisc/Getty Images
