Fly with Embird

A set of 6 tutorials focused on making cutting files for your designs in Embird Editor. Requires a minimum of Embird 2018 to complete the series. Embird 2020 or newer is even better as there have been significant improvements to the interface and the results you get. I recommend upgrading to the latest version if you plan on using the techniques from this tutorial on a frequent basis. Studio is required for Part 6. You can follow along in trial mode, but you won't be able to save anything. Working files are included.

Upon purchase, you will be presented with a download page with a link to download a zipped file with the Guide pdf file and all files used in class. You will also be sent an email with the link. This class file link expires in 7 days so please download it ASAP.

In the On the Cutting Edge Guide (in the zipped file) you will find a link and a password to the tutorial Showcase page. The video showcase link NEVER expires. There are also instructions for viewing the videos online and for downloading them to your computer. Keep this file in a safe place so you can always get to the videos. If you lose it, just email me for a new copy.

Part 1. The basics of making a cutting file from a single fabric design. We work with an in-the-hoop design to learn what is needed to make a good cutting file and how to find it in the design. The saving process is introduced.
Part 2. The process of finding the right outline for the cutting file is continued as we work with two different applique designs. Alternative methods for handling differences in other designs are shown.
Part 3. One of the differences often encountered in an applique design is an outline with a zigzag stitch. These just don't make great cutting files. But with Effect (introduced in Embird 2018), you can create a brand new outline. If using Embird 2018/2019, please read the included Guide carefully for special instructions for setting Editor up to make outlines before doing Parts 3-5.
Part 4. Have you wanted to make an in-the-hoop design from one of your favorite embroidery design? I show you how to turn a cute flamingo embroidery design into a marine vinyl tag - complete with a tab and grommet. A 130x180mm (5x7") hoop is required to stitch out the finished design.
Part 5. We take the flamingo design from Part 4 and turn it into a patch with satin stitch border.
Part 6. We move into Embird Studio to see how to make cutting files from designs you have digitized there. Includes an explanation of why Editor works better for designs purchased elsewhere.

A preface to the Embird Manager series, this set of 7 video tutorials sets the stage for a detailed learning experience. Set in "showcase" format, all 7 videos are available on one web page. It is suggested to watch sessions 1-3 in order. The other 4 videos could be watched in any order. Each video runs 10-12 minutes. No Vimeo account or password needed. Embird 2021 on Windows 10 used for tutorials. Works best for Embird 2016 and newer. A beginner "must-have". If using an older version than 2016, see the Manager 101 free video toward the bottom of the main page.

1. Intro to Manager - Basic introduction to the important areas of the Manager screen.
2. Customizing Manager - Changing visible attributes of available panels; making right panel text larger.
3. Setting up Manager - How to navigate folders using the Right Panel; setting Filters; changing inches to millimeters; showing date next to files.
4. Why Does It? - How to show/hide a few of the things that show up in Manager. Main Hint, Hints, Commands, Back-up Password, 1:1 sizing, and how to calibrate your display to view true size.
5. Driving Manager - Accessing your design storage drives. Floppies, USB sticks, CD drives, network drives, and an intro to cloud drives.
6. The Cloud - Accessing cloud drives in Embird. Introduction to Embird File Commander.
7. Embird File Commander - A comprehensive guide for using this “hidden” part of Manager for browsing and manipulating design files.

Download the companion Intro to Manager Guide in PDF format. It has links and descriptions to all 7 videos, instructions for viewing the videos in the showcase format, and other helpful information.

Two instruction PDF files together in one download. Installing Embird helps you get Embird downloaded then installed (or uninstalled and reinstalled) with fewer headaches. Includes troubleshooting steps for Iconizer as well. Before Updating is a must if you have marked threads or created custom thread catalogs. Often, those files are deleted during a reinstall or update/upgrade. It will help you locate the necessary files and get them copied somewhere safe so you don't lose all your hard work.

Recorded from live class, February 13, 2014. Beginner level.

Editor basics every beginner needs to know. A good refresher course for those who have been using Editor for a long time too. You just never know what tricks Peggy might have up her sleeve. Learn to open, merge, separate, copy, paste, rotate, change stitch order just to mention a few. While the tutorial was recorded using Embird 2013, the basics haven't changed. Video lasts 1.25 hours.

Upon purchase, you will be given a link to download the class packet through both a download page and an email. This is not the link to the video, but to a zipped file with instructions and files for use with the class. This link expires in 7 days, so download it quick. Open the ReadMeFirst pdf file in the zipped file. It will have the link to the video and the password that is needed. The links to the video do NOT expire. As with all my products, email me if you need an extension on the download time.

Recorded from live class, April 29, 2014.

More on using Embird Editor. What is density? Adjusting density in purchased designs. Why strange things happen to the stitch count when resizing. How to change fill pattern and satin stitch width in purchased designs. How and when to use pull compensation. User should be familiar with basic Editor functions. The video lasts approximately 1.5 hours.

Upon purchase, you will be given a link to download the class packet through both a download page and an email. This is not the link to the video, but to a zipped file with instructions and files for use with the class. This link expires in 7 days, so download it quick. Open the ReadMeFirst pdf file in the zipped file. It will have the link to the video and the password that is needed. The links to the video do NOT expire. As with all my products, email me if you need an extension on the download time.

Recorded from live class, March 22, 2016.

I love answering questions on my Yahoo and Facebook groups but sometimes the answers would be so much easier to understand if I could show you how it is done in real time. Discussions include separating by color, separating using the Stitch List, separating with Sew Simulator, adjusting width of satin stitch columns, deleting/inserting stitches, differences between Color Sort and Smart Color Sort, and using a Workspace file. The video lasts 1.25 hours.

Upon purchase, you will be given a link to download the class packet through both a download page and an email. This is not the link to the video, but to a zipped file with instructions and files for use with the class. This link expires in 7 days, so download it quick. Open the ReadMeFirst pdf file in the zipped file. It will have the link to the video and the password that is needed. The links to the video do NOT expire. As with all my products, email me if you need an extension on the download time.

Embird 2018 opened up a whole new world with its new Effects features. Originally intended to allow you to add fabric flattening (knockdown) stitches in Editor, it now offers many creative and "sort-of" digitizing abilities without owning Studio. The tutorial includes 3 sessions covering Effects along with Fabric Flattening Stitches, Fill Closed Contours, Stitch Closed Contour, and Basting Stitches - and lots, lots more.

Note: A few changes have been made since Effects were introduced. If using Embird 2020 and later it is no longer necessary to start Font Engine before creating your new fill/outline. You can skip that part and move on the the rest of the lesson. You will now see a new dialog box offering you a choice of Fill; Outline; or Fill/Outline on all of the features where it would be relevant. Just choose the one that is right for you.

The price includes access to all 3 sessions. You may watch online or download to watch as many times as you like. Requires Embird 2018 build 10.34 or newer. Some knowledge on how to use basic Editor.

Upon purchase, you will be given a link to download the class packet through both a download page and an email. This is not the link to the video, but to a zipped file with instructions and files for use with the class. This link expires in 7 days, so download it quick. Open the ReadMeFirst pdf file in the zipped file. It will have the link to the video and the password that is needed. The links to the video do NOT expire. As with all my products, email me if you need an extension on the download time.

You can’t do much in Embird Editor without knowing how to separate the pieces. Designs differ and will require different techniques to reach the desired goal. Degrees of Separation walks you through the available tools. You’ll learn when and how to use Separate by Color, the Stitch List, the Freehand Selection tool, the Sewing Simulator and the Guidelines. Each easy exercise builds skills and while simple when viewed alone, the techniques learned are the exact ones needed from the easy replacement of text through the most complicated splitting of a design for multi-hooping. Designed for beginners just learning to use the program and for those who may want to review techniques. All class designs included so you can go through step-by-step. Applicable to all but the oldest versions of Embird.

The price includes unlimited access to each of the 5 videos. You will also be able to view a bonus video on how to improve stitchability on split fills. That's more than 2.75 hours of instruction! All videos may be viewed online or downloaded and saved to your computer. All class files are included so you can work along step by step. Requirements Embird Editor 2006-2018. Some knowledge on how to use basic Editor.

Upon purchase, you will be given a link to download the class packet through both a download page and an email. This is not the link to the video, but to a zipped file with instructions and files for use with the class. This link expires in 7 days, so download it quick. Open the ReadMeFirst pdf file in the zipped file. It will have the link to the video and the password that is needed. The links to the video do NOT expire. As with all my products, email me if you need an extension on the download time.

Recorded from live class, March 20, 2014.

Embird's Font Engine plug-in allows you to add lettering to your embroidery designs. You can get decent results with the default settings, but you can get better results with a little know-how. The goal of this class is to help you get the best satin stitch lettering possible. We'll discuss some of the pitfalls of auto-digitized lettering including what to watch out for when stitching small lettering. You do not need to own Font Engine to get something out of this class.

Font Engine installs with basic Embird and you can do this class in the trial version. You will be limited to using the characters ABCabc, but those will work for this class. Beginner level. The class lasts approximately 1.5 hours.

Upon purchase, you will be given a link to download the class packet through both a download page and an email. This is not the link to the video, but to a zipped file with instructions and files for use with the class. This link expires in 7 days, so download it quick. Open the ReadMeFirst pdf file in the zipped file. It will have the link to the video and the password that is needed. The links to the video do NOT expire. As with all my products, email me if you need an extension on the download time.

Recorded from live class, June 24, 2014.

If you own Embird 2013 (or newer) and its Font Engine plug-in, then you have the Ready Made Alphabet text plug-in. It allows you to take all of those design fonts you buy from your favorite designers. You know, the ones that you now have to use Open and Merge to bring into Editor and then position manually. This new plug-in allows you to TYPE in your text and it positions it for you. In this video, you'll learn how to set up your alphabets to make them so much easier to use. Beginner level. The class lasts approximately 1.5 hours.

Upon purchase, you will be given a link to download the class packet through both a download page and an email. This is not the link to the video, but to a zipped file with instructions and files for use with the class. This link expires in 7 days, so download it quick. Open the ReadMeFirst pdf file in the zipped file. It will have the link to the video and the password that is needed. The links to the video do NOT expire. As with all my products, email me if you need an extension on the download time.

You do not need Studio to create interesting, intertwined monograms. You can do it using basic Editor and ready-made alphabets from your favorite designers, Embird Alphabets, and/or Font Engine.

All you need for this class is Embird Editor. You can even use it in trial mode. You do not need to own any Embird Alphabet or Font Engine. Everything you need is included in your class packet.

I highly recommend my Editor 101 video tutorial if you are not familiar with the basics of using Editor. It will help you become more comfortable with the program and make this video easier to follow. If you prefer written tutorials, try my Country Adventures tutorials which also cover Editor basics.

Upon purchase, you will be given a link to download the class packet through both a download page and an email. This is not the link to the video, but to a zipped file with instructions and files for use with the class. This link expires in 7 days, so download it quick. Open the ReadMeFirst pdf file in the zipped file. It will have the link to the video and the password that is needed. The links to the video do NOT expire. As with all my products, email me if you need an extension on the download time.

Recorded from live class, July 22, 2015. There is a newer version of this tutorial! See On the Cutting Edge if using Embird 2018 or newer.

Many of us have purchased electronic cutters like the Cameo Silhouette or Brother ScanNCut in hopes of easily cutting the fabric for purchased applique designs. Up until Embird 2015 build 10.14 this wasn't so easy. But now it can take only a few button clicks to create that SVG or FCM file needed by our cutting software. It comes in at the perfect size too - no more fussing around to get the perfect piece of applique fabric. But now and then the applique design may need a little work to make it work perfectly. In this class we'll work through the steps of creating the SVG/FCM file from a simple one fabric applique and then a three fabric applique. Design files included with class are from Fly With Embird Seminars.

This class requires at least Embird 2015 build 10.14. Embird 2019 greatly improved the quality of the SVG and FCM files it generates. It is definitely worth upgrading to the latest version if you are serious about using your embroidery files to make cutting files. You will need to know how to open and merge files in Editor. It will be helpful to have some knowledge on how to separate color stops and how to use the Sew Simulator. Class is split into 3 videos, each lasting approximately 30 minutes.

Upon purchase, you will be given a link to download the class packet through both a download page and an email. This is not the link to the video, but to a zipped file with instructions and files for use with the class. This link expires in 7 days, so download it quick. Open the ReadMeFirst pdf file in the zipped file. It will have the link to the video and the password that is needed. The links to the video do NOT expire. As with all my products, email me if you need an extension on the download time.

A classic tour of the Embird Manager program. Works best for Embird 2015 and older. For Embird 2016 and newer, watch the new Intro to Manager series instead. Embird 2013 on Windows 10 used for tutorials.

Embird runs best if you install and run it as an administrator. This video will show you how to set up the program to run as Administrator a single time or all the time.

Can you say "No More Dongles"? The Viking Designer 1 requires a special menu structure. Embird can create a disk that follows the rules. I walk you through the various stages of creating the disk for the Designer 1. I also include a tip that may put your Designer 1 back into embroidery mode if it hasn't been able to read your floppies since updating to Windows 10.