If you frequent the Forums here at AnnTheGran or any other site, you will often see users asking which software for embroidery is the best.  Some people even attempt to answer that question and some people know that there is no answer for it.

The reasons are (but not limited to):

• It depends on what you want to do
• It depends on what machine you have
• It depends on how much you want to spend (they are all expensive including all software for computers)
• It depends on what level computer user you are
• It depends on what day it is. . . . .
  

If there is one thing clear to me, it is that embroidery is moving at the speed of sound. It changes daily, has new innovations hourly and excitement from newbies (as well as experienced users) are driving the entire craft forward to exciting and new heights. I am so delighted to be a small part of that change. You must be a little pleased as well - after all - look at your first projects and your most recent projects. You will see your advancement in understanding and quality.  That is really terrific!!  Now, compare that to dusting your furniture - do you have the same satisfaction?

Enough said!!!

I do want to get the information together for Catalog Xpress (CX) and AlphaXpress  (AX) in one place for you to bookmark and refer back to from time to time. We cannot remember everything and frankly, I even check back to ascertain information when I work with AlphaXpress (the one I use daily).  Even using it daily, I can forget a shortcut that could save me time.

Recap for Catalog Xpress (Don't forget that there are other freebies and tips in with the CX and AX information):

• Making Notes for your designs. Among the BEST features of CX is the Notes feature. It allows you to keep information regarding changes, issues or anything you may want to keep. I keep things like the place where I purchased the design, the cost of the design and even how many times I have done the design.
• Using Search and what CX does and does not do. Search has a lot of methods for your use, not just by name. It is so useful that you can find a design very quickly. Additionally, many users have a question about where designs are kept on their computer. CX does not "hold" the design, it is data about your designs only. That is also explained in the link called Search.
• When you need to Resize CX is a great help. Your machine software may not be able to do an adjustment of more than a small amount. CX can do resizing, up or down as much as you like. Of course, it also adjusts the stitch count. You just need to be sure you are going to still have your design as you want it to look. That is where a 'discovery sew' can tell you if your design will be successful.
• Format and Converting a format is complex and not taken lightly. I have had some software convert and mistakes can occur. CX is excellent for changing your format. You may get a new machine that does not use your old format or find a design that has to be changed. Make sure you can trust your conversion software.
• Creating your own Colors with CX is quick and very important. You may want to change a rose from red to green to match your color scheme, but seeing is different than imagining. It can be quite interesting to make a change. Furthermore, if the background is dark, like denim, and your pattern is also dark, you may not get the 'WOW' factor you really want. A detail may be lost if the color is not right.
• The feature of Multiple Sorting is possibly not well known but could be the best of the features.  You can place a design in multiple places. For instance, if you have a design with a kitten in a flower bed with a butterfly, you can place it in those three different places and be able to find it three ways.  You don't have to remember what the theme actually is about, it will come to you in multiple ways. And, if you are thinking butterfly but when the kitten comes up with it, you may see that it is even better for your project than the one you originally were considering.  This blog has the Bonus of how to use "Word, Excel, Power Point and other Microsoft applications FREE! 
• I use the Arrange Designs frequently in my business because while I want to use the most appropriate design for a project to sell, I also want to use the one with the least amount of stitches or color changes to minimize my time and effort.  This money savings will make me more profitable. I can also arrange my designs by color - Catalog Xpress automatically does this as it reads the colors so I don't have to plug in the information, it is already there.  Size is another facet that I can use. After all, a large design on a little girl's pinafore just may not be the right one.
• Many software programs can print your designs, but with Catalog Xpress, printing is flexible. You can print any size from a thumbnail to a full page and any where in between.  This makes a great method to have the designs when your PC is not working or if you would like someone to see what you have available. It is portable and easy to manage.
• Combining Catalog Xpress and Alphabet Xpress.  This is really a great way to create a personalized design. With just a touch of a link, you can take your design and add lettering from Alphabet Xpress. This is easier and faster than combining methods. You can see your design and change either the design or lettering with one program.

After giving Catalog Xpress a good look over, I began going over Alphabet Xpress and the great features it has available. Even if you have used Alphabet Xpress for a while, there may just be a tip or two for you to find among these aspects.  Even when software has a good tutorial, I have often found that there are elements hidden here and there that are rarely in books.  I suppose there is no way for a developer to give every instance of what you may use or need. I love to poke around the drop down menus to see what I can use to my advantage. I hope some of these items will help you make the best and highest use of your Alphabet Xpress Software. And, if you don't have it yet, I really do recommend it!

• Buying Fonts is one of the first confusing things that a newbie faces. I know I was so confused on this one that I spent money unnecessarily. Who needs that?  This blog is to help us all understand the differences between monogramming and fonts AND a good font vs. a mediocre font. I discuss how creating words, especially sentences and long writing is really best done with software.  Adding letters one at a time is time consuming and can be a significant problem. One of the great things about AnnTheGran is that they do put these two software programs on sale from time to time.
• This program allows you to REALLY view the stitches.  You can almost see the thread fiber molecules themselves.  You can see how the stitches lay and you can switch to a different font if the stitching is not to your needs for your project.  Some fonts are smoother or more ragged, so this allows you that view before you place one stitch on your fabric.
• Fonts can be customized to your hearts content.  Take a single letter, word or group of words and make them standout in unusual ways. With AX you can take a single letter out of the middle of a word and make it 5 times the size of the rest of the letters. AX will adjust the spacing and you will have a unique project to be proud of.
• Creating a lengthy thought with AX. You can even do something as long as a Paragraph with AX. It does happen that I do hankies for brides and they want to tell someone special just how they feel on their most important day. I created my own messages for brides to their mothers, fathers, father-in-laws and even flower girls. I can change a single word on any of them quickly and easily. Again, one letter at a time would be too time consuming.
• My blog called Leather and Lace is one of my favorites. I don't digitize for a number of reasons, one of which is understanding 'Pull Compensation.' Pull compensation is tricky and a really experienced, knowledgeable digitizer can make a fantastic design. However, some digitizers have had this issue, then when you sew out your project and it is not as you expect, you think that you have done something wrong. Not necessarily so.  Every software that I have seen for creating designs has what is called a "Recipe." That recipe calls for adjustment to the stitching. For more info on this, read the blog. AX, IMHO, does a good job on this issue.
• AX allows you to see stitching and what I call Reverse Engineering. This allows you to see the underlay and how the stitching will be laying. It is great to be able to see a design in its rawest form. You will learn what constitutes a good or bad design. If you are going to put in your time, effort and soul into a project, you want to have the best of the best to create your vision.  AX is a great tool to help you know what you are looking at.

In all honesty, as I was putting this blog together, I had to scan over my own information and guess what- - - my review reinforces my recall of all the options for these two great software programs.  It helps me to remember that there are features I don't use everyday, but can make good use of from time to time. 

If you love embroidery, get the best equipment available to make it a true pride and joy.

These tips can be used for Windows XP and Vista -

Operating systems vary, if in doubt, check with your provider and/or technical support.

 It seems like everyone needs to save time. It is just a fact of life these days.  The following "Control Key" list is to help you do just that.

Software is becoming more uniform.  In many cases, these also work for Macs as well but using a different key. Check with your manual or just test these.

Why use them instead of the mouse or other devise? Well, a mouse can fail or lose the battery power. Sometimes you need to just use the keyboard.

• CTRL+A - Selects the entire document. If you use it for changing a format, it will change all the format, i.e., Bold or Underline would be applied or removed.
• CTRL+B - Applies or removes bold formatting. Use at the start and at the end or select the target and use the CTRL+ B
• CTRL+C - Copies the selected words, sentences, paragraphs, cells or data. It can be copies multiple times and stays until filled with new information.
• CTRL+F Displays the Find dialog box. Then SHIFT+F4 repeats the last Find action.
• CTRL+G Displays the Go To dialog box. You can go to a page or section, line, bookmark, comment or other notated things. F5 also displays this dialog box.
• CTRL+H Displays the Find and Replace dialog box. I use this frequently for updating information such as changing dates or times.
• CTRL+I Applies or removes italic formatting. Same as the Bold.
• CTRL+K Displays the Insert Hyperlink dialog box for new hyperlinks or the Edit Hyperlink dialog box for selected existing hyperlinks. You can use hyperlinks to the Net, another document or a place in your current document.
• CTRL+N Creates a new, blank document.
• CTRL+O Displays the Open dialog box to open or find a file.
• CTRL+P Displays the Print dialog box.
• CTRL+R Changes the paragraph, page or document to right alignment format.
• CTRL+S Saves the active file with its current file name, location, and file format. This is great for when you are busy, just a quick CTRL+S and you have saved your document that fast.
• CTRL+U Applies or removes underlining. Same as Bold.
• CTRL+V Inserts the contents of the Clipboard at the insertion point and replaces any selection. If placed in a space, inserts information; if placed in a highlighted area, replaces the entire highlighted selection. It is only available after you cut or copied an object, text, or cell contents.
• CTRL+W Saves and closes the current document. Yes, in just one step!
• CTRL+X Cuts the selected cells.
• CTRL+Y Repeats the last command or action, if possible. Keep in mind that sometimes you cannot repeat an action for various reasons.
• CTRL+Z Uses the Undo command to reverse the last command or to delete the last entry you typed. If you are working on something and it disappears from the screen, AND before you try anything else, give this a try. I have had emails disappear and gotten them back. (But sometimes, not!) Do you feel lucky??

Have you backed up lately?? (Especially your designs?)  Have you been checking the Rogue Security Software information?  Do these software sound legit??

• WindowsDisk
• WindowsPCProtector
• MemoryOptimizer
• MyDisk
• CheckDisk

ALL OF THEM ARE ROGUE SECURITY SOFTWARE. Check this site as well as my blog about them.

Stay Safe!

I have never been certain why Microsoft does not place a calculator on a computer screen. There are a number of them on the Internet, and I have one that I like for several reasons. For one, I can turn off or on the keyboard. With the keyboard off, I can just use my computer numeers. You can find it here.

When you first saw machine embroidery, it was probably done by a sales person who just pressed a couple of buttons and made magic!  Just like Dorothy, you must be warned not to believe all that you see. The Wizard of Oz can be tricky.  The good news is that you can learn all that trickery, alas at the expense of time and effort - OR by reading the Forum and the excellent blogs offered by AnnTheGran.

As each facet of embroidery is mastered, your projects become more and more professional and beautiful.  Look back at some of your original attempts (I hope you keep them, they can be very educational!!) and see that you have progressed.

Here are my tips (in no particular order):

• Make sure the design fits both your hoop and the project. I have done some items only to find that they were too large or too small for the area.
• Color changes can be exorbitant for a design. Keep in mind that more color changes means more detail and vice versa. But if you have to gather 23 colors, including 8 colors of blue, it can be a problem. For one thing, those blue colors may need to blend but not be too close in color. They may need to be highly contrasting and that could be very difficult.
• Stitch count can cause issues in that a light fabric with a heavy stitch count can be too heavy for the fabric.  It can be too dense and cause what is known as ‘cast iron embroidery.' You have heard your machine sound like it was pounding rather than piecing the fabric. That can be the result of a poorly digitized design or too much stabilizer.
• And here is my favorite -

Take a good look at the underlay and the over-all layout of your stitches. You may find that a design is not as great as you may have hoped. It could be skimpy and have the background fabric appear; or it could be too dense and be a sewing nightmare

Starting in Alphabet Xpress, look at the stitching underlay.

The first design I selected did not even have an underlay. It went directly from the writing (which may or may not have underlay) to the eyes.

I selected a second design that does have an underlay and started (lower left corner) to check the stitching of the words.

And I could see that as I move the indicator, the underlay of the first balloon starts as does the second balloon. I am looking to see that the underlay is light and great for the design. Some underlay will be heavier for various digitizing reasons.

I guess thats another reason why I just love Alphabet Xpress.

And, you may have noticed that Catalog Xpress is offering a super deal this week! Check it out! (You can get two free Morango Design Collections.  That is Collections which are dozens of exceptional designs, not just a design or two.

I am a big fan of free computer software. Some of it is worth free and some of it is quite valuable. One that I like, and have found to be praised by many computer professionals is CCleaner by Piriform.com.  This one has a very nice Pedigree - -

If you are not using this software, you may want to consider it because of its multitude of great features.  It will clean up:

 Not too bad for a freebie!  What I like is something 'hidden' in the Tools group.  It is called Driver Wipe and if you are careful, it will clean up your drive for you. Look at the Drop Down selection and see that you can wipe just the Free Space Only  or  THE ENTIRE DRIVE (All data will be erased).  Make sure  you don't select the second option and you will have a cleaner drive.

You can opt for a single wipe or multiple wipes. I first did a single wipe (overnight) and worked my way up to 35 wipes. I really feel like my pc runs faster now.

One thing about Alpha Xpress that I find to be very sophisticated is that it understands the difference between leather and lace. Stay with me here, I will get there, I promise.

If you digitize, I don't have to explain this to you, but the rest of us are in the dark on these issues. There is an issue with machine embroidery that is called "Push/Pull Compensation."  As I noted in my blog on purchasing magazines and books on embroidery, I have another often used book by John Deer called Digitizing made easy. I don't digitize, but understanding what it takes to digitize can be very helpful.

John describes push/pull (this is only one facet of push/pull) as in the following example (disregard that the stitches are uneven):

As your machine is placing stitches, it is generating a force that can make problems like puckering and/or drawing in. That can make a letter "I" look strange or even  ruin a beautiful embroidery design.

Enter Alpha Xpress to (help to) save the day. Look at the following information and see that there is a software generated difference.

First, we are working in  the "Options" Menu and under 'formats' using the 'recipe' for Silk.

We are going to next explore what "Silk" generates in the 'Properties' area, in the 'Fill' tab:

It is 'suggesting' a .4 density. Remember that the higher the number, the less dense your area will be.  The .4 can be adjusted if you like which would be relative to your design and fill and fabric. I adjust the fill frequently when I am doing lettering for my hankies.  Furthermore, the wider the stitch, the more pull compensation is needed.

Next I am selecting "leather" for my fabric.

The fill had adjusted the density change to .5.  (Satin is the type of stitch here, not the fabric.) 

In his book, John does say that software is unable to adjust the 'push' so the digitizer will need to make that adjustment manually. The computer is great but limited in some areas. Understanding these details will help you when you run into problems.

As Microsoft says, "Unexpected results may result." Which is their way of saying - - - the computer cannot fix it and/or we cannot figure out how to make the computer fix it.

If you have not read my blog on needles, I suggest that you do because there is information that is, IMHO, valuable for understanding embroidery in general.

 You know that WWW stands for World Wide Web. Typing in WWW tells your browser that you are connecting to a Web server.

However, as the Internet and related-technology evolved, prefixes became mostly unnecessary. But we are creatures of habit and many Websites use both WWW and non-WWW addresses.

Today, advances in search sites have made this no further problem. Search sites are now smart enough to know that both addresses have the same content and some sites have forwarding to the preferred spot..

These days, it's a bit redundant to use WWW with a URL. Your browser can figure out what it's connecting to on its own. It's pretty rare, but some sites may still require it. If you have trouble loading a site, try putting the WWW back in. Occasionally, this will fix the issue and route you to the correct site.

Here is a nice Freebie - Virtual Magnifying Glass Portable. It makes your cursor works just like a real magnifying glass. Just point and see. You can also put it on a thumb drive. Then, use it on any Windows or Mac machine. You won't have to strain your eyes again. It is free - find it here: portableapps.com 

Creating a keepsake is always an honor IMHO because it will be something admired and appreciated for a long time to come.

I do create and sell hankies for brides and am always surprised by what they will be asking of me each time.

Recently I had worked on a hankie that had some of the remaining beads from the bride's wedding dress. What a challenge that was!

For ease of working on such projects, give me my Alpha Xpress any time!  This time I am going to go over some of the adjustments I make to end up with a WOW factor for my bride.

When my bride first approaches me with their order, I do have a set of questions for them. These include:

• When is the Wedding Date (do I have a little time?? - not always!)
• Who is the hankie for (I have a nice mother-in-law hankie that is a big hit, but there are others who want a keepsake too)
• We discuss which thought the bride wants for the hankie (you would be surprised at how lengthy some of the thoughts can be. . . )
• We discuss which font is the brides choice (I only give 4 options, there is no need to give her dozens of choices. I use the Annie, Bonance, Darling and Waltz. Those are from very simple to very ornate and work perfectly!) Incidently Darling is the hands down ultra favorite!!!
• We chose what color the bride wants for the thread.

I guide the bride to the destination and prepare to create my project. I keep it as simple as possible for my own sanity.

I begin with selecting the Text feature and filling in my wording.

I selected Precious this time just for fun and it is a more formal and classic look.

If you have never checked the "?" next to the name of the Font, now is a good time to do so. There are the 'pieces' available and suggestions for Heights.

I needed to adjust the line of text so that it did not become 5 miles long. I have done this so often that I know about how many letters will look good on a hankie and I selected the end of the word "gentle" to be the end of the first line. I continue until I have several lines for my project.

 Next, I know that .79 inches (19 mm) will be too large for a hankie. That size would be better for something like a blanket. The Help information indicated it works best at 1" but I am going to use .4" because I will be making further adjustments.

The .4" has reduced the stitches, but experience tells me that I need to adjust more. Additionally, this is 8.75" wide, still too wide for my hankie.

 I returned to Properties and adjusted the width from 100% to 95%. I am careful not to make a large adjustment here because this is a 'squeeze' and I don't want my letters to be too close. I still have another place to adjust. Just stay with me here.

 In Properties, I select the "Fill" tab and have some options to use there. I will stick with the satin stitch since this is for a formal event. However, I could use something more playful if I am making something like a jacket where I might be using something interesting like 'Snake Skin.' I do play with these so I know what to expect if I decide on a project on the 'wild side.'

 Notice that the 'Density' is set at .4. That is an average density and found frequently in embroidery. Look at the pattern, it shows the difference between points.

I adjust my Density to .5 and you see that the points are further apart. That means that there will be fewer stitches. So, that is why a larger number in the density means fewer stitches.

 I adjusted the Density and saved the file.  

As usual, I do a 'Discovery' sew to see exactly what my outcome will be. A 'discovery sew' (aka sew out) is done on a similar scrap of fabric is something necessary to be sure you will not ruin your project which may be on a very expensive fabric or garment.

Alpha Xpress is the best for a lot of writing!!

Some days I cannot find my keys, or my glasses or whatever I really need. Too often, I cannot find a file I need and that presents a lot of problems for me. I am always on a schedule and get frustrated with delays!  This small application is really worth its weight in gold and then some.

Check out FileSeek. With this app you can search for text matches, folders and sub-solders, match 1 or MORE file patterns, exclude 1 or MORE file patterns and filter results by last modified date.  That is one hefty bevy of ways to get your file. I am sure that this was suggested from someone just like me, organized in my own, less than effective manner. 

Oh, yes, it is free, they ask for a donation. If you really like the app, consider giving $5 or more to support these types of things.

I really love Alpha Xpress AND, all of the fonts are on sale, and I really love sales!! In my embroidery business, I use it daily and it saves me so much time that I can really do some creative things rather than do the drudgery of putting things together. This blog is about something that I recently did for a friend and felt like I was really smart for making the wording truly unique.

I could not wait to try out my new fonts, I got two this time - Sweet Tweet and Precious. These are truly all purpose fonts because they are easy to read and don't add any embellishment to the design. I want the embroidery to be the star and the lettering to convey my thoughts. Sometimes I want the font to make a statement such as in an ornate monogram, but not with this type of design.

I downloaded my fonts and installed them.  If you have questions about the installation, check my blog for the instructions. 

I am starting with my Sweet Tweets which is a well defined, well digitized lettering. I was playing with the name itself.

The green square on each letter indicates that that letter can be handled individually. That is where the fun begins. I selected the capital T.  

Using the upper left corner, I enlarged just that letter.

Using the green square again, I moved the T into the position of my choice.

Now I am ready to add my design and I select "Merge Stitch File" from the File Menu. That is the best part of the over all design, I just need to have a design to add, and my creation will be ready to sew out.

I love this little bird, and perched him on the S where he can tweet away.

I am having a lot of fun generating something from my vision, that is what embroidery is all about. I enjoy my craft and get that satisfaction for my creative side. 

Next, I am using the Precious Font. Precious has a little whimsy but still very clean and excellent lines.  For this design, rather than selecting "Text," I selected "Circle."  I have been playing with it, and this is going to be a baby announcement with a lot of precious personality.

The Welcome is going to be my top arc.  I can make this up as I go along, but I had a circle in mind for the over all design.

I created a second arc and put the name in it. I also selected the "Invert" box.

Using the center cross, I move my arcs into a circular position. Since they have a different number of letters, they are not creating a circle just yet.

Next, I am moving my upper letters to create my circle.  I can have it as an oval as well. There are so many options.

Back to my "Merge Stitch File" for my design, a little wiggling her around in the center and - I have a great design.  I could add the birth date,, weight and length to the bottom if I like for a wonderful wall hanging for the nursery.

 Love it!!  On to play more with my Alpha Xpress!!!

BTW - If a few hundred dollars would make a difference in your life, please consider getting my "Embroidery Cost Analysis". My online business is increasing and you can do the same - on or off line.

There are several very nice slideshow programs on the Internet, but I thought that this one was the best.   Most of the freebies are minimal and require that you download their data down to your PC.  As I have noted several times, more and more of the software will be purchased/used/available on the Internet as time goes by.  Enormous program files will make this a necessity, and frankly, it will keep the ‘non-paying clients' to a minimum.  (If I do the work, I expect to be paid fairly and honorably too!)  Additionally, you don't have to worry about a virus or other sneaky thing being added to your PC. 

PhotoShop -

World English Dictionary

Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 10th Edition
2009 © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins
Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009
Cite This Source

is actually now a recognized word in the English language.  Just like Kleenex and Xerox became verbs, so has photoshop  become household words.  It is at http://www.photoshop.com/  After signing up, everything is relatively easy. 

I went into "My Gallery" in "Me" and pressed Upload. 

I created a new album, uploaded some photos and was able to select, add more for photos that were not in that particular folder.  I thought that was really handy.

I completed my upload and I selected a few options for my slideshow.

Next, I created an album for my photos and selected the photos using the ‘shift-click' on the first and last photos.  I dragged that group, which were highlighted with a blue box, into that album. 

Next, I was given the Properties box.  Think of properties as the ‘under-pinnings' of your album, sort of the ‘who, what, where, when, etc.'

Make your selections and press Done.   At the bottom you will see the Slideshow option.

You will select "Midnight" because the plus sign on the upper right of "33 mm slides" and "3D Globe" are only available if you make a purchase of the full software. 

There are a few more options to select.  They are simple, but I really liked the fact that you can use ‘fade' or ‘dissolve' with your photos.

 All you need to do now is decide to whom you will be sending your slideshow.  I choose you!

 See my finished project.

My next tip for Alphabet Xpress is one that I found to be so interesting that I could hardly wait to tell you about it. 

I do hankies for weddings and often the bride will want to have a large amount of text placed on her hankie.   I have to make a decision as to which font to use after the bride has told me what she has in mind.  Generally, it is either italic or not - -

I also want to be able to know how that font really looks, again Alphabet Xpress to the rescue.

Here is one of my hankie monologues.  It is in 3D and has a choppy look.

Notice, this is no small design, it is well over 13,000 stitches! 

Next, I want to see that design in detail.

I am zooming in and see why there is a somewhat choppy look.  Then I go further into the zoom feature.

What a view!!!  It is like looking at the wing of a fly!  I can see the underlay as well as the stitching.

 I chose another stitch to see if it will meet my needs better.

And a third font!  I really know that my design will appear exactly as I am planning.

How terrific is that!

ps:   How would you like to have a new embroidery machine?  Or, is there someone in your life who would love to have an embroidery machine of their own?  Check this out!    

You may ask me, if you already have a machine with all those lovely bells and whistles, why would you want this machine?  Simple, if your baby is in the shop, or you are doing a lot of projects for an upcoming event, a second machine is wonderful.   You do know, of course, that many of us still have a second machine that we do use from time to time?  That is not generally true of most other crafts, but embroiderers want to hang on to their special, older children!

This may be a beginner type of machine, but you can bet that it has a lot of great features.  Just a few are:

• • Computer Connectivity with Update Capabilities - USB Cable
  • 70 built-in embroidery designs, 5 monogramming fonts and 120 frame pattern combinations
  • 67 built-in sewing stitches with 98 stitch functions - Duo, both sewing and embroidery
  • Easy-to-view back-lit, touch screen LCD display - Easy to use
  • On-screen reference guide in 16 languages - Help is at your fingertips
  • Quick-Set™ drop-in bobbin and automatic needle threader
  • Built-in push button thread cutter
  • Large 4” x 4” embroidery area
  • Brightly lit LED work area
  
  Drawing will be held on 11/23, so time is fleeting!  GOOD LUCK!!!

There are many resources for looking for ancestors and relatives online.  www.FamilySearch.org reviews a number of sites, speeds up your search and is free.  Good luck finding those who may be related to you.

You may already own a scanner or just be considering one for your home use.  I am going to cover some of the benefits and some things to watch for as well.

Today, many of our printers already come with a scanner, and if you have one, I hope you are using it. 

There are two types of scanners.  The first is one that only scans.  You can scan a photo or other items that you can keep on your computer.   These are generally scanned to a .bmp or .jpg or a photo.  That essentially means that a document that is all words cannot be manipulated or searched, except for the name.  Old records will be readable, but not editable.   In some cases, such as a document like a marriage license, that is good because you won’t want it to be changed in any way. 

The next type of scanner is one that includes optical-character-recognition (OCR) software.  This converts/recognizes files and makes them editable.  If you have a document that you don’t want to retype, this is great.

Some OCR software will allow for you to save as a PDF document.  Portable Document Format (PDF) is an open standard for document exchange. This file format was created by Adobe Systems in 1993 is used for representing two-dimensional documents in a manner independent of the application software, hardware, and operating system.  This format is very widely used.  Acrobat is great but costs around $300.  (Adobe Reader is the free software.) If you read my blog on Foxit, you have found the finest – FREE – alternative to Acrobat.   

If your software allows for searchable PDF, you want to use this format because it preserves the layout but also allows for you to search for text within the document.

Essentially a searchable PDF has 2 parts; the image and the hidden text layer that is created through OCR.   That makes it the best of both worlds.

Additionally, the help advisors don’t recommend plug-ins that use your printer to create documents.

Use PDF to share a document for which you are responsible.  PDF makes it difficult for changes, and your integrity remains intact.

The bottom line is, read the software information before you buy.

Alphabet Xpress is a program that makes embroidery a LOT more fun!  That is it in a nut shell, it is great! 

What makes a great program even better?  A sale, of course. . . . Alphabet Xpress AND the fonts available for the software are on sale at 40% off the regular price. 

Look at the wonderful lettering that you can get:

Let’s look directly at the Darling Font.  When purchasing fonts, there are two considerations (for fonts used for writing purposes) that I use.   

First, they must be complete.  They need to include all the punctuation marks I am likely to need.  It is surprising how many fonts sell you the ‘bare bones’ and just include a period and comma.   That is insufficient!

Second, they must be very legible.  If you are going to use words like – like or with – you want to be able to see that there is an ‘l’ and an ‘i’ so people can see your word.  You also need to look at the lower case ‘s’ and ‘e’ – they can be difficult to tell apart if not well digitized.

You may also note that this is not an italic design, but the letters will work well together – they will flow like writing.  They will be attached to one another.

After purchase, follow these instructions to load your font.  Keep in mind that computers are programmed to do certain things, and an executable file (.exe) expects to download to the folder you are currently in.  In this case, you have to change the location.  Doing an 'unzip' does allow for this change.

To install the Darling font:

1. Ensure that your Alphabet Xpress software is not currently running. 

2. In the Darling.ZIP file you received, there is a file called Darling 32-bit.exe  (the 64-bit is also included). Double-click on the Darling 32-bit.exe file to start the font installation. 

You will see the WinZip Self-Extractor dialog.  If you don't see the Extractor dialog, return to your .exe file and right click, select "Extract All." 

Since the location is already highlighted, you only need to paste in "C:\Program Files\AnnTheGran\Alphabet Xpress\Fonts" (without the quotes.)  Select Extract and you are done.  Proceed to note #4 below.   

3. Click the Unzip button. This will unzip the necessary font files to the Fonts folder for Alphabet Xpress, which is:

Files\AnnTheGran\Alphabet Xpress\Fonts

4. Start Alphabet Xpress. You are now ready to use the Darling font with your ATG Alphabet Xpress software.

Here is an example of the font.   The top is a font from my machine, and the bottom is the  Darling.   All the Alphabet Xpress fonts are done with the same care.

With these fonts, you only need to select it, and type and you are ready to embroider.   Purchasing a really good font is an investment and at 40% off, this one is less than $17, how can you go wrong?  Unless you need a different format for another reason, this one will be your ‘go to’ font of choice.   

Most Help Desk people will remind you to do certain steps, depending on your computer, to help speed up your PC.  Vista does the Defrag and Check Disk in the background, so you can do those if you like, but it is not likely to make any difference in start-up speed.

It is a fact that getting rid of unused programs can help you speed up the starting of your PC.  However, one must be careful when one decides to ‘disable' a start up program.   Disable does not remove a program, and is generally safe.  However, if you don't know what something actually does, you could create problems for your PC.

So, I am going to show you a simple, effective and less fearful way to cut down the start-up time.

Unless you are a graphics artist or in a similar professional, you don't need a huge number of fonts. This tip will shorten your morning start up time by reducing the number of fonts you load.   

I use Microsoft Word and am consistently working toward using the SkyDrive.  Having tons of fonts does not make sense for me.  I had no idea how many fonts I had and was floored when I saw the number - 642 of them.  How many do I use?  Perhaps a dozen but on a regular basis, even less. 

Here is what I did to eliminate some of the ones I would likely never use:

• At the start menu, select Control Panel
• Select Fonts
• Right Click on the font that I don't recognize/use
• Take a look at that font and decide to keep or toss
• Close the view of the font
• Delete the font

Some of them were ‘groups' such as Bodoni. They were acceptable, so I did not have to check each one.   

The TrueType fonts were embedded and not removable.  However, I had some other font types and they were removable.   You may also find that when you start up some programs, they may upload their fonts again.   Sometimes you cannot win.

I was able to remove 80+ different fonts.  I chose them based on the look - some of them were hard to read for various reasons - and the likelihood of using them. 

What if I had removed a font that I later thought I would use?  I go back to my blog on Free Fonts, and download it from there.

Did it make a difference in my start up speed in the morning?  Well, yes.  It was small, but I thought it was noticeable. 

Sometimes chipping away at getting better speed takes a little from many areas.  This is just one of them.

When I first started to think of doing a blog about Alphabet Xpress, I must say that I thought "hmmm . . . . , what's to say, open software, select a design, select a font, type your words, and save."  That is all there is to it, but I decided to discuss some of the ways to make your project more special with your personal touch.

Newbies (me included) are often confused about the differences between Monograms/Alphabets/fonts. 

Monograms can be Formal, Script, Ornate, Framed and so much more.  They are uppercase lettering only.  Some sites are careful to show monograms separately from lettering for ease and convenience.  

Alphabets are usually singular lettering with both upper and lowercase lettering.   I always caution my clients to be sure they select lettering that includes punctuation appropriate to their needs.  For instance, it is not unusual that some lettering does not include "-" or "/" or other items that may be needed for some projects.  Some don't even include numbers!  Additionally, you must place them one at a time.  That can have lots of repercussions including poorly lined letters among other things. 

Fonts are the way to go for writing in embroidery.  Fonts are almost entirely capable of using most everything on your keyboard.   Using a Font means that you just have to type and everything is done for you.   Alphabet Xpress is just converting what you type into its configuration.

Why anyone would struggle with alphabets when Alphabet Xpress is available is a mystery to me.  The time and frustration savings justify this software over and over again. 

I will go through details in future blogs, but for now, here are the basics:

• In Alphabet Xpress, under File, Select "Merge Stitch File. . "
• Select your design and start the Text process by selecting Text
• Select the placement of your text, it can be moved later
• Type your text and press OK
• You can move using the ‘hand' icon
• You can resize using the ‘arrow' icon
• Repeat if desired
• Select Save, making sure to save to your format
• If your design exceeds the hoop, adjust the hoop or resize the design

 Sew out your masterpiece.

The next Alphabet Xpress blog will be about refining your designs. 

In lieu of digitizing, you can make a suitable design truly your OWN!  Gotta love AlphaX!!

If you have not yet tried Skype, you are missing one of the finest features the Internet has to offer.

Most people know that you can call users worldwide if they have the correct equipment for free.  But did you know that:

• You can send files
• Send Instant Messages (IM)
• Create a conference call with up to 100 users
• Search the Skype database for users worldwide
• Reach people on their landlines and mobiles worldwide (fees apply)
• Skype via TV (extra equipment required)
• Skype via mobile phones, Bluetooth, cordless phones - et al

You will need a computer (PC or Mac) with Internet access.  Dial-up is not recommended due to speed issues.  For best results, use DSL or cable, which is available in many areas.

Also required will be a microphone and headset.  You can get them starting around $20; and going up to as expensive as you like.  Quality of picture and sound will dictate pricing, but for most, the least expensive are just fine.  Many computers come equipped with those features built in. 

You will, of course, need the software program from Skype.   There are some other available, Polycom is one, but Skype has become the leader of the pack. 

The basic service is free - Skype program users to Skype program users; however, other services have equipment and/or time charges.  For instance, Skype to someone who does not have a computer could be free or just a few cents per minutes. 

Since the equipment you use and the various connections and adjustments are numerous, I cannot go into set ups, but there are great help and client services available at their website. 

Note:  No emergency calls with Skype

Skype is not a replacement for your ordinary telephone and can't be used for emergency calling.

1. Keep notes on issues (your input) - Notes
2. Search by the usual information AND by Notes - Search
3. Resize designs - Resize
4. Convert the format  - Conversions
5. Recolor designs and background colors - Recolor
6. Categorize designs in multiple subjects (place a design of girl in garden watching a butterfly in multiple categories)  - Categories
7. Arrange designs in multiple methods (Name, Type, Number of Stitches, Colors, Dimensions) - Arrangements
8. Print the entire catalog of designs in 3D (as small or large as I like) Print Catalog
9. Work with Alpha Xpress to create wonderful projects.

Here is the Catalog Xpress and its integration, Alpha Xpress, Tip #9.  They are truly genius for solving wording and combining designs with wording issues.  Newbies will find these to be very user friendly because they work so much like Microsoft programs, so there is not a steep learning curve. 

I will be going over Alpha Xpress more in future blogs, but here, I am going to give you a quick demonstration of how well these two software programs work together. 

First I selected a design that I wanted to use for a birth announcement.  I do these and marriage, baptismal, confirmation, Bar/Bat Mitzvah and other special occasions in our lives. 

The design is simple, but it could be ornate or fun.  It could be a part of a baby's book, scrapbook or wall hanging keepsake.

If you don't have Alpha Xpress yet, select the "Add Lettering to Your Designs" in the lower left corner.  You can get a 30 day trial to see how you like the easy-to-work-with program.   

Since I already have the software, I selected "Lettering" in the upper right corner.

That single click opens Alphabet Xpress for me, and my design is in the working area.

To begin writing, select "ABC" in the menu bar, and select "Text".

This selection opens the Properties Menu so that you can start writing.  Insert your test in place of "MY TEXT".

Select one of the five available fonts.  I have added "Bonance" therefore I have 6.  I can add many really nice fonts.

I filled in my information and selected "Apply".  It came out way too large, so I made some adjustments to the height.

 After adjusting and saving, this one is ready for my embroidery machine. 

Next time, I will show you the many features available in Alphabet Xpress.  Thanks for reading!

We are all trying to be more ‘green' these days, but some things may remain in your home that you are uncertain about.  Green means more environmentally safe, but I use some items that I really cannot do without.   I want to know exactly what is in those products.  It may just change my mind about using them.   

This site, produced by the U.S. Department of Human & Health Services, http://householdproducts.nlm.nih.gov/ is just what I need for so much information about everything from Automotive Products to Pesticides.   

It does not matter if you have children or pets, we all need to safeguard our health and well being.

With so many schools having financial issues, it is a good thing that there are some places that offer freebies for teachers.  This is not limited to teaching either; you can print these up for your home or office.

This site, http://www.poster-street.com/ gives you some fun and motivating posters.  There are some for just teenagers, businesses and other categories.  You simply print them out.  I was thinking that printing them on photo paper will make them very special.

Here is my next Catalog Xpress tip and it is one of those that I have always appreciated about this software.

I do sell my items online.  However, I occasionally go to craft fairs, fund raisers and the like and that presents issues with showing the available designs. 

1. Keep notes on issues (your input) - Notes
2. Search by the usual information AND by Notes - Search
3. Resize designs - Resize
4. Convert the format  - Conversions
5. Recolor designs and background colors - Recolor
6. Categorize designs in multiple subjects (place a design of girl in garden watching a butterfly in multiple categories)  - Categories
7. Arrange designs in multiple methods (Name, Type, Number of Stitches, Colors, Dimensions) - Arrangements
8. Print the entire catalog of designs in 3D (as small or large as I like)
9. Work with Alpha Xpress to create wonderful projects.

Having designs at your finger tips can be outstanding for many reasons.

Let's say that you are going to be attending a fund raising event and you are participating by offering a nice pillow for an animal lover. 

It is difficult to tell others just how beautiful your designs are and you don't have a photograph of all the designs that you want to offer.  You want your idea to look its best and show off what you are capable of doing. 

Let's open Catalog Xpress and select Baby.  There are 162 items in that folder.

Next, select the File Menu, and Print Catalog.

Next, the software will make a suggestion for printing some pages.  In this case, it shows 4 pages with 6 columns and 9 rows. 

My designs will look something like this when printed.

That is probably good for showing a prospective client the available designs.

What if I want a reference just for me?  I can adjust the number of columns and rows to put it all on one page.  What a time saver for me!!!

Even with a lot of designs, you will be surprised at how well you know your designs from just a small thumbnail size picture.

What if I want to take just some designs that meet specific criteria?  All I have to do is select the ones I want.  Remember that holding down your Ctrl key and using your mouse, click on the ones you want.  You can also select a group by holding your Shift key and click on the first design and the last design.  Go to the File Menu, select Print Catalog and you will see that the option to ‘Print selected' box is available.  Click on that box and change the column and row information to suite your needs. 

Customize to your hearts delight.  It is a great way to keep info on designs. 

If you missed my blog on getting Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint and One Note for free, you better check it out!  If you are considering selling your embroidery - the holidays are coming fast! - you can now get my spreadsheet without purchasing Excel (about $400 by itself).   

We all get excited over a new piece of equipment, either for our computer or for our embroidery.  But we may be stumped as to what to do with the leftover and possibly obsolete equipment.  Here are some ideas, mainly for camera, but also for other equipment.  Don't forget, if all else fails, be sure to donate or dispose of electronics appropriately.  There are toxic things in those items, and a landfill is no place for them.

Best Buy: Trade your camera at any Best Buy store location, or visit BestBuyTradeIn.com and receive a free, printable shipping label. Best Buy offers a cash value or a gift card option that is worth more. If upgrading  your TV or iPod,  the card will help defray the cost.

Casio: You have to purchase a new Casio camera before you can log into their trading web site. You will get a check within a week.

Kodak:  Kodak sends a prepaid shipping label, but you have to purchase a new Kodak to complete the trade-in process. Kodak's site offers a trade-in value estimator along with a program to help you choose a new digital camera.

Olympus: Olympus offers prepaid labels and cash with the purchase of a new Olympus camera. Check out their trade-in site.

Ritz Camera: Ritz trades at the store locations or online. In return for your old gear, you get a gift certificate to the store.

TigerDirect.com: This is an online electronics store that allows you to trade for anything on their site. You get cash or store credit at their site.

Wal-Mart: You can trade in your old electronics on the Wal-Mart Website.  You don't have to create an account until after you get your trade-in value. The rate is competitive and is mailed within a week as a Wal-Mart Visa credit card.

Trading equipment helps everyone.  And, just as a thought, I kept my old laptop as a dedicated embroidery designs location.  Since I have the USB on my BabyLock, I can make a link via a cord available at computer stores.  I also have a wireless router for my Internet access, so I download my designs directly to that machine. 

Here we are already at item #7. Time certainly flies when you are learning so much.  And, for me, the benefits are large because ‘to teach is to learn.'   I really thought I knew Catalog Xpress, but I have learned so many more things along the way.  I hope you have gained new information as well; so, on to arranging designs.

BTW, Catalog and Alpha Xpress is on sale this week, 40% off, take advantage of a really fantastic program and a terrific price.  Write on!

1. Keep notes on issues (your input) - Notes
2. Search by the usual information AND by Notes - Search
3. Resize designs - Resize
4. Convert the format  - Conversions
5. Recolor designs and background colors - Recolor
6. Categorize designs in multiple subjects (place a design of girl in garden watching a butterfly in multiple categories)  - Categories
7. Arrange designs in multiple methods (Name, Type, Number of Stitches, Colors, Dimensions)
8. Print the entire catalog of designs in 3D (as small or large as I like)
9. Work with Alpha Xpress to create wonderful projects.

You probably read between 3 and 5 different blogs about embroidery.  I read everything I can get my hands on, and do spend time not only reading but considering how to take that information one or more steps further.   I read a well known person's blog recently and she said that while we love to look at intricate and detailed designs, we often opt for use of simple, low stitch count projects to actually do our craft.

Gee, I thought I was the only one who does that. . . .  I think there are two reasons (probably more, but these are mine) why.  The first is that I have a limited amount of time and the second is that I have a limited amount of patience. 

Using Catalog Xpress helps me with this one with just three clicks of the mouse.

I select "View" in the Menu Bar, "Arrange Designs" in the Drop Down Menu and then "Stitches" to get my designs automatically arranged from the fewest to the most stitches. 

Some of these are a little bit ‘lean.'  I can check through all the designs, looking for a happy medium.

Here is the most stitch intensive in my ‘baby' group.

At 43,000 stitches, I am going to be working on that bear for many hours.

Another really great item in the Arrange feature is ‘type.'  This is very helpful for someone who has purchased a new machine and possibly the format is different for the new toy.

Of course, "name" is the default, but colors and dimensions are really useful as well.  If there are a high number of colors, that means more of my time for thread changes. 

The "dimensions" will be governed by your project's sewing area.  Sometimes you would love to do a design but find it is not suitable in size. 

Catalog Xpress is a program that will help you keep track of and manage your designs.  What a great asset.

I also just received an email from a friend about my ‘Awareness' ribbons blog.   Interestingly, I was about to do some of those ribbons, and this reminded me about using ribbon inside the ribbon.   Gee, good thing she reminded me, cause I really do miss my mind. . . .  

It seems like it was very recent when we were learning computers, the Internet and cell phones.  I am on my sixth computer and I cannot remember how many cell phones I have had.  Change is inevitable; stand still and you will be run over. 

Sky Drive, a program by Microsoft, is one of the most recent innovations.  It was trailing behind Google Documents and other ‘free' software programs, but since its inception on June 15, 2010, I think it has become a true contender.  (Imagine Microsoft having to ‘contend' with anyone. . . .)

If you have not tried Sky Drive, you owe it to yourself to at least check it out.  Software, the lifeblood of Microsoft and many other companies, is free.  Let me restate that, there is no charge for using the software. 

There is one ‘catch'- - and catch has such a bad name (poor PR no doubt), you can only use it online, you are not using it on your computer. 

That is such good news, I cannot emphasize that enough, and it is good news for these (among others) reasons:

• As software does more and more, it takes more and more memory. Eventually, it just fills up your computer. Further down the line, it will be too memory hungry for any computer.
• There is no charge for the use of the facilities.
• Saving files is really ‘problem proof.' You cannot lose your documents, they will likely never become corrupt. Your hard drive may crash, but your document is safe.
• You don't have to buy anything.
• You can share your document with whomever you choose. You both can work on that document (photos are included in this system) and be in different cities, states, countries, continents - and perhaps someday, worlds.
• They give you 25 GB of free storage for photos (memory hogs) and documents. Imagine never losing another photo!
• Software available is: Word, Excel, PowerPoint and OneNote; everything is password protected through your sign in. Then, you select if others can read, write, delete or change your items.
• Did I mention it is free?

 Well, you get the picture/photo. 

I will walk you through the general process. 

1. You will need to have a Windows profile.  You may already have one.  Hotmail, Messenger or MSN are part of the family of Microsoft Windows applications.  If not, you will need to sign up for one of them.
2. Once you have completed that, you are done!

Go to your program in which you are registered, mine is Hotmail.  You will have a link at the top of the window indicating your Sky Drive "Office" area.  For this exercise, enter using "Your Documents."

Your first time in Office, you will be selecting limits for your profile.

You can also allow permissions and limits down to the document level. 

Let's get in via the Documents link:

And through to My Documents, to begin working (this is my personal preference, you may select a different folder or create one yourself).  Make sure you select Personal until you are ready to work with others and share your documents and/or work:

After selecting My Documents, I can either upload by browsing or create a new document.

Now, if you wanted to purchase my spreadsheet "How Much to Charge" for computing the amount to charge on your embroidery work, you can do so without having to buy Excel!

 Well, the rest is up to you.  You can do so much online and at any computer than has a browser.

Here is the next installment of my tips on Catalog Xpress.  I hope you have found them helpful; I enjoy bringing them to you.  Always try to get the best and highest use of all your programs.  You will be pleasantly surprised at what they will do for you.

BTW, Alpha Xpress is on sale this week, 40% off, take advantage of a really fantastic program and a terrific price.  Write on!

1. Keep notes on issues (your input) - Notes
2. Search by the usual information AND by Notes - Search
3. Resize designs - Resize
4. Convert the format  - Conversions
5. Recolor designs and background colors - Recolor
6. Categorize designs in multiple subjects (place a design of girl in garden watching a butterfly in multiple categories)
7. Arrange designs in multiple methods (Name, Type, Number of Stitches, Colors, Dimensions)
8. Print the entire catalog of designs in 3D (as small or large as I like)
9. Work with Alpha Xpress to create wonderful projects.

As I have mentioned before, I have a large number of designs.  I collect them, enjoy them and sometimes, cannot find them.  This is another super way Catalog Xpress is helpful for me. 

This design has so many items that I might want to consider for a project.  I will look over the pattern and place the ‘data' (remember, Catalog Xpress does not hold the design, it holds the information about the design) in several places.  Let me list a few here, some are obvious, but some may be just a little covert:

• Snow
• Sled
• Fence
• Winter
• Pine tree
• Birds (there are 2)
• Rabbit (do you see it?)

Now, here are some that are more subtle:

• Child (cool on a backpack)
• Seasons (a possible set of 4 designs)
• Animals (general)
• Multiple Sizes (I have this design in 3 sizes)

When I am looking for an idea, because sometimes I get a bit of a ‘block,' I may look for a concept rather than something specific in an image. 

I could have this in 11 different categories, but only have a single design on my computer. 

If you have been online more than 1 week, you probably have a lot of "Favorites" or "Bookmarks" that you have accumulated.  I am a collector of links.  If I think I may be interested in something, but don't have the time at the moment and I create a Favorite.

Because I do this blog, I have a lot of them - that is my story and I am sticking to it!  I did not realize it, but I had nearly 1,000 of them.  Holy Cow!  How did that happen? 

Enter, "Dead Links."  Initially, there were about 120 dead links.  There were also ‘redirected' links where the Webmaster had made sure than there was a new path to an old link.  That occurred mostly where there might be sales involved.  The Dead Links were among smaller sites that would not have had someone to watching to be sure that the link was still of value.

Next, I used the "duplicate" link review.  I got another 90 or so duplicate links. 

Altogether, I got rid of over 20% of my links.  In looking at the names, I was surprised to note that I could identify many of the links by just looking at the names.  A few were of no further interest to me and I was able to delete another 15 or so links. 

I still have too many links, but I do take a little more care of what I link to these days.  After all, there is only so much time left in a day filled with embroidery and other joys of life.

Here is a little bonus tip with this blog.  If you love the photos of family, friends and your life, you can enjoy them even more with this little program.  It is "Jigsaw Puzzle Lite."

It has the options to buy puzzles, but I just use it for my favorite photos.  I can have a few puzzle pieces for the kids or over 300 piece for me to work.

It has 4 corner sections for those who like to work with just a section at a time, and lots of other puzzle players' favorite methods, like arranging or not.

  Let the littlest kids do a puzzle of themselves with 6 pieces, they really love to see themselves on the screen and the puzzle helps them with their mouse skills.

Here is the next installment of my tips on Catalog Xpress.  I hope you have found them helpful, I enjoy bringing them to you.  If you don't use the features of your programs, even if they are free, you are wasting a valuable resource.

1. Keep notes on issues (your input) - Notes
2. Search by the usual information AND by Notes Search
3. Resize designs - Resize
4. Convert the format  Conversions
5. Recolor designs and background colors
6. Categorize designs in multiple subjects (place a design of girl in garden watching a butterfly in multiple categories)
7. Arrange designs in multiple methods (Name, Type, Number of Stitches, Colors, Dimensions)
8. Print the entire catalog of designs in 3D (as small or large as I like)
9. Work with Alpha Xpress to create wonderful projects.

I love to change the colors of a design.  I try to keep in mind that the designer may have a strong background in coloration, or perhaps not. 

I have said it before and I will reiterate it again, a digitizer is only as good as their background - which requires knowledge of so many things, not the least of which is color coordination.  So, in the colors department there are these considerations (you may have others, these are my observations):

• The designer may not be particularly good with selecting colors
• The designer may be wanting to do something whimsical rather than life like or vice versa
• The background you are using is very germane to the colors of your design.  If the design does not pop - I stop!

I have selected a design with many colors; this one has 19 color stops, but only 8 different colors.  The digitizer is layering the colors one upon another to build a more life looking design. 

I seldom use any software to attempt to limit those because it may just ruin the design.  For instance, eyes could disappear or details could end up buried. 

However, since this design has extra color changes, it gives me an excellent opportunity to adjust the colors to suit myself. 

The colors are not, in my opinion, what I might see in a real circus train.  On a white background, it looks great.  But, I am going to place the design on a denim tote, making the colors blend into the fabric.  I want my project to really POP.

So, I use the background changer, found in the "Options" menu.  I change the background to a denim color and the design is no long a bright train for a child's tote.

I reviewed the directions given by the digitizer regarding the colors.  I selected the 8^th, 9^th, 10^th, 11^th and 14^th colors to be changed.

One thing I like about Catalog Xpress is that it identifies the colors by their number.  Some of the others use a ‘color slide' system, which shows where your color is on the spectrum, but if you wanted to return to your original color, you have to ‘figure out' which one it was.  You can check back with the directions, but I want to see colors that are adjacent and how they act with each other.  So, I have the color numbers and sometimes go back to an original for various reasons. 

If I decide on, in this case, a ‘white' platform for the cage, I selected a ‘beige' so that it looks a little weathered and possibly dirty from being on the road.  I like how that looks.

I make more changes in keeping with my recollections of my childhood which includes a red cage with some golden trim.

I think it will pop very well, and I am pleased with my changes.  I feel confident that my project will be great. 

I use Catalog Xpress a lot for coloration, it gives me what I need to do what is in my head.

Drawing and designing is usually limited to those who have talent, I am not included in that group.  However, I did find a method of creating interesting designs that is fun and amusing for me.  I hope you like it too.

Livebrush, is a fun way to create some interesting effects.  If you can draw as well, it is even more appealing.   There is a simple demo at the site.

I think either one of these would be striking when embroidered.  If you have a young couple in your life, I think this type of art may well interest them and combined with embroidery, what a breathtaking heirloom this would make. 

Here is the next episode of “Tips on Using Catalog Xpress.”  You can look at tips number 1, 2, and 3 by selecting the links.

1. Keep notes on issues (your input) - Notes
2. Search by the usual information AND by Notes Search
3. Resize designs - Resize
4. Convert the format
5. Recolor designs
6. Categorize designs in multiple subjects (place a design of girl in garden watching a butterfly in multiple categories)
7. Allow background colors (view your designs against project color)
8. Arrange designs in multiple methods (Name, Type, Number of Stitches, Colors, Dimensions)
9. Print the entire catalog of designs in 3D (as small or large as I like)
10. Work with Alpha Xpress to create wonderful projects.

Converting of formats is a very complex software issue.  Finding a reliable resource is paramount for embroiderers.  Sometimes we cannot find the design we want with the format we need.  Sometimes we might change machines causing formatting nightmares. 

There are a couple of things to remember when converting designs.

• Always keep your old design.
• You can do a single design or a ‘batch’ of designs.

First, we will select the designs to be converted.  We can select one with a simple click or select several, in a row, by clicking on the first design, and pressing and holding the shift key and select the last design.

But what if we want to select design number 3 and design number 99?  We can do that by selecting the first design, and pressing and holding the ctrl key, select the second, third or any design.  All will be selected for conversion.

Right click on any of the highlighted designs and you will see a ‘content sensitive’ help menu.  That goes for most software as well. 

The selection area shows that there may be some Brother or Babylock machines may require a different version. 

I recommend that you select the ‘new directory . . .’ and place the new file in a separate file.  This automatically keeps the original format, and as I noted, I do recommend keeping it for future needs.

You can see that I converted two designs, and they are listed, by format, in the first and second position.

 It is quick and easy.  Catalog Xpress is a very comprehensive embroidery software.