Brother PE-DESIGN PLUS User Manual

Page 1

PERSONAL EMBROIDERY DESIGN SOFTWARE SYSTEM

Operation Manual

Please visit us at http://solutions.brother.com where you can get product support and answers to frequently asked questions (FAQs).

Page 2

IMPORTANT INFORMATION: REGULATIONS

Federal Communications Commissions (FCC) Declaration of Conformity

(For USA Only)

Responsible Party: Brother International Corporation

100 Somerset Corporate Boulevard Bridgewater, NJ 08807-0911 USA

declares that the product

Product Name: Brother USB Writer Model Number: PE-Design

complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:

– Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna. – Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver. – Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help. – Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the manufacturer or local sales

distributor could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.

Canadian Department of Communications Compliance Statement

(For Canada Only)

This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.

Radio Interference

(Other than USA and Canada)

This machine complies with EN55022 (CISPR Publication 22) /Class B.

Page 3

Read the following before opening the CD-ROM package

Thank you for purchasing this software. Before opening the CD-ROM package for this software, carefully read the following Product Agreement, which has been provided for this product. Use this software only if you agree to the terms of this agreement. By opening the CD-ROM package, you agree to the conditions of its use. This product cannot be returned after it has been opened.

Product Agreement

1) General terms This is an agreement between you (the end-user) and our company for this product.

2) Use of this product You may install and use this product on only one computer.

3) Limitations on duplications You may not duplicate this product, except for backup purposes.

4) Limitations on modifications You may not modify or disassemble this product in any way.

5) Limitations on transfer This software may not be transferred to or used in any other way by a third party.

6) Warranty We accept no responsibility for your choice or use of this product or for any damages that may arise

out of its use.

7) Others This product is protected by copyright laws.

Portions of this product were created using technology from Softfoundry International Pte. Ltd.

■ Opening the Operation Manual (PDF format)

This manual is provided in a PDF format on the enclosed CD-ROM. The Operation Manual is also installed during software installation.

Click All Programs, then PE-DESIGN PLUS, then Operation Manual.

Otherwise, with PE-DESIGN PLUS, click , then Operation Manual. With PES-Writer, click Help, then Operation Manual.

b Memo:

• Adobe® Reader® is required for viewing and printing the PDF version of the Operation Manual

• If Adobe Systems Incorporated Web site (http://www.adobe.com/).

• The procedures in this manual are written for use in Windows® 7. If this software is used on an operating system other than Windows® 7, the procedures and appearance of the windows may differ slightly.

Reader® is not on your computer, it must be installed. It can be downloaded from the Adobe

Page 4

Congratulations on choosing our product!

Thank you very much for purchasing our product. To obtain the best performance from this unit and to ensure safe and correct operation, please read this Operation Manual carefully, and then keep it in a safe place together with your warranty.

Please read before using this product

For designing beautiful embroidery designs

• This system allows you to create a wide variety of embroidery designs and supports a wider range of sewing attribute settings (thread density, sewing pitch, etc.). However, the final result will depend on your particular sewing machine model. We recommend that you make a trial sewing sample with your sewing data before sewing on the final material.

For safe operation

• Avoid dropping a needle, a piece of wire or other metallic objects into the unit or into the card slot.

• Do not store anything on the unit.

For a longer service life

• When storing the unit, avoid direct sunlight and high humidity locations. Do not store the unit close to a heater, iron or other hot objects.

• Do not spill water or other liquids on the unit or cards.

• Do not drop or hit the unit.

For repairs or adjustments

• In the event that a malfunction occurs or adjustment is required, please consult your nearest service center.

Notice

This Operation Manual does not explain how to use your computer under Windows®. Please refer to the Windows

manuals.

Windows® is a registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation. Other product names mentioned in the Operation Manual may be trademarks of registered trademarks of their respective companies and are hereby acknowledged.

Important

Using this unit for unauthorized copying of material from embroidery cards, newspapers and magazines for commercial purpose is an infringement of copyrights which is punishable by law.

Caution

The software included with this product is protected by copyright laws. This software can be used or copied only in accordance with the copyright laws.

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS

This product is intended for household use.

For additional product information and updates, visit our web site at: http://www.brother.com/ or http://solutions.brother.com/

Page 5

Table of Contents

Before Use........................................4

Before Use ............................................... 4

Introduction................................................... 4

Installation.....................................................5

Creating Embroidery Patterns......10

Getting Started ...................................... 10

Starting Up Application...............................10

Creating Embroidery Patterns From Photos

(Photo Stitch 1)...........................................11

Saving.........................................................18

Exiting Application ......................................19

Image To Stitch ..................................... 21

Photo Stitch 2 .............................................21

Auto Punch ................................................. 24

Cross Stitch ................................................27

Common dialog boxes................................30

Entering Text ......................................... 32

Entering Text ..............................................32

Advanced Operations for Entering Text......35

Arranging Embroidery Designs ...37

Supplement....................................61

Understanding Windows ......................61

PE-DESIGN PLUS Window ........................61

Menus .........................................................65

Tips and Techniques............................. 67

Sewing Direction.........................................67

Sewing Order ..............................................67

Sewing Wide Areas.....................................67

Reference ............................................... 68

Sewing Attributes ........................................68

Font List ......................................................70

PES-Writer.............................................. 72

Writing Multiple Embroidery Files to an

Original Card...............................................72

Troubleshooting .................................... 75

Index ...............................................76

Arranging Embroidery Designs........... 37

Editing Embroidery Designs .......................37

Checking Embroidery Patterns................... 40

Applying Sewing Attributes to Lines and

Regions.......................................................45

Opening/Importing Embroidery Designs..... 48

Transferring Embroidery Designs to

Machines ....................................................52

Printing........................................................54

Specifying the Design Page Size and

Color ...........................................................56

Changing Application Settings.................... 57

Page 6

Before Use

Introduction

Package Contents

Check that the following items are included. If anything is missing or damaged, contact your authorized dealer or Brother Customer Service.

USB Card Writer Module CD-ROM Original card Operation Manual

Contains the software

and Operation Manual (PDF format).

a LED indicator

This indicator lights up when the unit is turned on, and flashes when the USB Card Writer Module is communicating with the computer.

b Card slot

Insert an original card/embroidery card here.

c USB connector

Connect to the computer.

a Note:

• The only original cards that can be used with this USB Card Writer Module are those like the one enclosed or optional original cards of the same type.

• Never remove an original card or unplug the USB cable while this indicator is flashing.

b Memo:

• Since power is supplied to the USB Card Writer Module through the USB connection to the computer, there is no power supply cable or power switch.

• Be sure to keep original cards away from high humidity, direct sunlight, static electricity and strong shocks. Furthermore, do not bend the cards.

Optional Supply

Additional blank original cards can be purchased through an authorized dealer.

Original card

Page 7

Before Use

Installation

Please Read Before Installation

Before Use

● Before beginning the installation, check that the computer meets the system requirements.

● In order to install the software on Windows

account with administrator privileges. For details on logging on to the computer using an account with

administrator privileges, refer to the Windows

● The installation procedure is described for Windows operating systems may be slightly different.

● If the installation is canceled before it is completed or if the procedure is not performed as described, the software will not be installed correctly.

● Do not remove the CD-ROM from the CD-ROM drive of the computer while the installation is being performed. Remove the CD-ROM after the installation is completed.

● Before turning on the computer, be sure to disconnect the USB Card Writer Module.

Operating System, you must log on to the computer using an

manual.

7. The procedure and dialog boxes for other

System Requirements

Before installing the software on your computer, make sure that the computer meets the following minimum PC requirements.

Computer IBM-PC or compatible computer Operating system Processor 1GHz or higher

Memory 512MB (1GB or more is recommended.) Hard disk free space 200MB Monitor XGA (1024 x 768), 16-bit color or higher Port 1 available USB

Printer

CD-ROM drive Required for installation Internet access Required for update

Windows

A graphic printer that is supported by your system (if you wish to print your images)

XP, Windows Vista®, Windows® 7 (32 or 64 bit)

a Note:

• Power is supplied to the USB Card Writer Module through the USB connection. Connect the USB Card Writer Module to a USB connector on the computer or to a self-powered USB hub that can supply enough power to the Card Writer Module. If the Card Writer Module is not connected in this way, it may not operate correctly.

• This product may not operate correctly with some computers and USB expansion cards.

Page 8

Before Use

Installing the Software

This section describes how to install the application software.

a Note:

• If the installation is interrupted or not performed as described, the software will not be installed correctly.

• Before turning on the computer, be sure that the USB Card Writer Module is DISCONNECTED.

• In order to install the software, you must log on to the computer using an account with administrator privileges. If you are not logged on with the Administrator account, the password for the Administrator account (Administrators) may be requested with Windows Type in the password to continue the procedure.

■ Windows® XP users only

 After a short while, the language selection

dialog box for InstallShield Wizard automatically appears. Continue with step

4. on page 7.

b Memo:

If the installer does not automatically start up:

1) Click the Start button.

2) Click Run.

 The Run dialog box appears.

3) Type in the full path to the installer, and then click OK to start up the installer. For example: F:\setup.exe (where "F:" is the name of the CD-ROM drive)

■ For Windows® 7 or Windows

Vista

users:

 After a short while, the AutoPlay dialog

box automatically appears.

1. Insert the enclosed CD-ROM into the

computer's CD-ROM drive.

b Memo:

If the

AutoPlay

start up:

1) Click the Start button.

2) Click All Programs Run.

 The Run dialog box appears.

3) Type in the full path to the installer, and then click OK to start up the installer. For example: F:\setup.exe (where “F:” is the name of the CD-ROM drive)

Dialog does not automatically



Accessories 

Page 9

Before Use

2. Click Run setup.exe.

 The User Account Control dialog box appears.

3. Click Yes.

 After a short while, the following dialog

box automatically appears.

4. Select the desired language, and then click

OK.

 The InstallShield Wizard starts up, and

the first dialog box appears.

5. Click Next to continue with the installation.

6. Check the installation location, and then click

Next.

b Memo:

To install the application into a different folder:

1) Click Change.

2) In the Change Current Destination Folder dialog box that appeared, select the drive and folder. (If necessary, type in the name of a new folder.)

3) Click OK.

 The Destination Folder dialog box of

the InstallShield Wizard shows the selected folder.

4) Click Next to install the application into the selected folder.

 A dialog box appears, allowing you to

select the folder where the software will be installed.

 A dialog box appears, indicating that

preparations for installation are finished.

7. Click Install to install the application.

 When the installation is completed, the

following dialog box appears.

Page 10

Before Use

8. Click Finish to complete the installation of the

software.

a Note:

This procedure also automatically installs the card writer driver. The card writer may now be connected to your computer. Make sure that PE-DESIGN PLUS starts up correctly.

Checking for the Latest Version of the Program

Click in PE-DESIGN PLUS, then Check for Updates.

The software is checked to determine whether or not it is the latest version.

If the message shown below appears, the latest version of the software is being used.

If the message shown below appears, the latest version of the software is not being used. Click Yes, and then download the latest version of the software from the Web site.

b Memo:

If the dialog box calling for restarting the computer appears, it is necessary to restart the computer.

a Note:

• This feature cannot be used if the computer is not connected to the Internet.

• It may not be possible to check for the latest version if a firewall is turned on. Turn off the firewall, and then try performing the operation again.

• Administrator privileges are required.

b Memo:

If the

Always check for most recent version

at startup

is checked at startup to determine whether or not it is the latest version.

check box is selected, the software

Page 11

Before Use

Technical Support

Contact Technical Support if you have a problem. Please check the company web site (http://www.brother.com/) to find the technical Support in your area. To view the FAQ and information for software updates, visit the Brother Solutions Center at (http://solutions.brother.com/).

a Note:

Before contacting web site:

1) Please have your Windows® Operating System updated to the most current version.

2) The make and model number of the computer that you are using as well as

the Windows version.

3) Information about any error messages that appear. This information will help expedite your questions more quickly.

4) Please check and update the software to the latest version.

Operating System

Uninstallation

1. Click the button in the task bar, and then

click Control Panel.

2. In the Control Panel window, select

Programs and Features.

3. In the Programs and Features window,

select this software, and then click Uninstall.

b Memo:

• The uninstallation procedure is described for Windows

• For Windows then Control Panel. Double-click Add or Remove Programs. Select this software, and then click Remove.

7 and Windows Vista®.

XP, click the Start button,

Online Registration

If you wish to be contacted about upgrades and provided with important information such as future product developments and improvements, you can register your product online by following a simple registration procedure.

Click Online Registration on the menu of PEDESIGN PLUS to start up the installed Web browser and open the online registration page on our Web

site.

http://www.brother.com/registration/

b Memo:

Online registration may not be available in some areas.

Page 12

Creating Embroidery Patterns

(1) (2) (3)

(4)

(5)

Getting Started

Starting Up Application

Starting up PE-DESIGN PLUS

Click , then All Programs, then PE-DESIGN PLUS, and then click PE-DESIGN PLUS.

About the Top Wizard

When PE-DESIGN PLUS starts up, the following wizard appears.

(1) New

Click this button to begin creating a new pattern.

(2) Open PES

Click this button to open embroidery data (.pes).

“Opening a PE-DESIGN PLUS file” on

page 48

(3) Image To Stitch

Click this button to start the wizard for creating an embroidery pattern from an image.

“Using the Photo Stitch 1 function to

create an embroidery pattern from an image” on page 11

(4) Most Recently Used Files

Click the name of a file from the list, and then click Open.

(5) Always show Wizard at Startup

Select this check box to start up the wizard each time PE-DESIGN PLUS is started up.

Page 13

Creating Embroidery Patterns

Creating Embroidery Patterns From Photos (Photo Stitch 1)

The sample file for this tutorial can be found at the following location.

Documents (My Documents)\PE-DESIGN PLUS\Tutorial

Step 1 Using the Photo Stitch 1 function to create an embroidery pattern from an image

Step 2 Changing color of the circle

Step 3 Adding text and setting character spacing

Step 4 Transforming the text

Step 5 Importing and rotating an embroidery pattern

Step 6

Step 1

Using the Photo Stitch 1 function to create an embroidery pattern from an image

Now, we will open the image of the girl and convert it to an embroidery pattern.

Transferring embroidery patterns to embroidery machines

• Transferring the design to an original card

• Transferring data to embroidery machines via a USB media

2. Import the file girl2-face.bmp.

Select the file

Documents (My Documents)\PE-DESIGN PLUS\Tutorial

girl2-face

.bmp

in the folder

1. Click 1 in the Top Wizard.

b Memo:

Image file formats

Images in the following formats can be imported.

• Windows bitmap (.bmp)

• Exif (.tif, .jpg)

• Portable Network Graphics (.png)

• GIF (.gif)

Page 14

Creating Embroidery Patterns

1 2

Embroidery pattern size

b Memo:

Creating beautiful photo embroidery

• The following types of photos are not appropriate for creating embroidery patterns.

• Photos where the subject is small, such as in photos of gatherings

• Photos where the subject appears dark, such as photos taken in a room or taken with backlighting

• An image with a width and height between 300 and 500 dots is suitable.

3. Click 1, then 2, then 3.

“Image To Stitch Wizard” on page 30

4. Click 1 to select the circle mask, and then click

Next.

5. Adjust the size and position of the image.

1 indicates the Design Page.

• Move the pointer over a handle, and then,

while holding down the key and the left mouse button, drag the mouse to reduce the size of the image.

• Drag the image to adjust its output location.

Shift

b Memo:

• The size of the embroidery pattern appears in the lower left corner of the dialog box. The user can change the size freely with this display.

• For best results, change the size of the embroidery pattern to the sizes listed below.

• Face only: 100 × 100 mm

• Head and shoulders: 130 × 180 mm

“Select Mask dialog box” on page 30

“Set Output Size dialog box” on page 31

and “Gray Balance / Set Output Size dialog box” on page 31

6. Check the preview of the area to be converted

then click Next.

7. Click Select from Candidates.

“Photo Stitch 1 Parameters dialog box” on

page 19

Page 15

Creating Embroidery Patterns

8. Select one of the candidates (1) and click OK.

 This preview changes to the selected

image.

9. Select the Add mask outline check box,

check the preview image, and then click Finish.

Step 2 Changing color of the

circle

1. In the Sewing Order pane, move the scroll bar

until circle pattern (1) appears, and then click it.

2. Click 1 in the Color tab to change the color of

the circle.

 Stitches are automatically input.

b Memo:

If the created embroidery pattern contains colors that you do not wish to emphasize (for example, grays in the face), change the sewing order in the that the undesirable color is sewn before all other colors.

Sewing Order

“Checking and Editing the Sewing Order” on page 43.

pane so

Page 16

Creating Embroidery Patterns

1 2

Step 3 Adding text and setting

character spacing

1. Click , then .

2. Click below the girl in the Design Page.

 A vertical dashed line will appear on the

Design Page.

3. From the keyboard, type in “Andrea”.

7. Click the Text Attributes tab, and then set

Character Spacing (1) to 3.0 mm.

Specify the setting by clicking the selector and typing in the value, or by clicking or

4. Press the key.

 The text is entered.

Enter

5. Click the text to select it.

6. Click the Color tab, and then click 1 to change

the color of the font.

Step 4 Transforming the text

1. Click the text to select it, select the Transform

check box (1), and then click 2.

Page 17

Creating Embroidery Patterns

2. Move the pointer over , or , and

then, while holding down the left mouse button, drag the mouse to adjust the size, position or curve of the text.

: Adjusts the text size.

: Moves the text along the circle.

: Adjusts the radius of the circle.

“Transforming text” on page 33

3. To adjust the positions of the embroidery

patterns, click the pattern, and then position the pointer over the pattern. When the shape

of the pointer changes to , hold down the left mouse button and drag the pattern to the desired location.

“Editing Embroidery Designs” on page 37

Step 5 Importing and rotating an

embroidery pattern

Now, we will import the embroidery pattern for the rose.

2. From the Category selector, select Floral.

3. Move the pointer over the rose, and then,

while holding down the left mouse button, drag the mouse to import the pattern into the Design Page, as shown in the illustration.

“Importing embroidery designs” on

page 49

4. Click in the Import dialog box to close it.

1. Click , then ,

then .

Page 18

Creating Embroidery Patterns

5. Move the pointer over the rotation handle (1),

and then, while holding down the left mouse button, drag the mouse to adjust the angle of the pattern.

Step 6

Transferring embroidery patterns to embroidery machines

You can sew a pattern transferred to your sewing machine by writing it to media.

There are many methods to transfer data; however, the procedures for two of these methods are described below.

• Writing to an original card (☞p. 16)

Data can be transferred to embroidery machines compatible with original cards.

• Transferring data to embroidery machines via a

USB media (☞p. 17)

Data can be transferred to embroidery machines equipped with a USB-B connector.

■ Transferring the design to an

original card

Insert an original card into the USB Card Writer Module.

a Note:

When imported stitch patterns are enlarged or reduced, the embroidering quality may be reduced.

“Slightly Enlarging/Reducing

Stitch Patterns” on page 38.

2. Click , then ,

then .

Page 19

Creating Embroidery Patterns

3. Click OK.

a Note:

• When writing to an original card that already contains data, all data on the card will be deleted.

• Before using an original card, check that the designs on the card are no longer needed.

“From an embroidery card” on

page 50

• If you wish to keep the designs, store them on a hard disk or other storage media.

4. When the writing is finished, the following

message appears. Click OK.

■ Transferring data to embroidery

machines via a USB media

1. Plug the USB media into the computer.

2. Click , then ,

then , then .

 Data transfer begins.

3. When the transferring is finished, the following

message appears. Click OK.

a Note:

Precautions for using the Card Writer Module/original cards

• The original card is inserted correctly when you hear it snap into place.

• Never remove an original card or unplug the USB cable while the LED indicator is flashing.

“Transferring to a machine by using an

original card” on page 52. For details on saving embroidery patterns, refer to “Saving” on page 18.

5. Insert the original card into the card slot of the

sewing machine.

4. After an embroidery pattern is transferred,

remove the USB media from the computer.

5. Insert the USB media into the USB port on the

machine.

b Memo:

For details on using the embroidery machine, refer to the Operation Manual included with it.

Page 20

Creating Embroidery Patterns

Saving

Overwriting

Click 1, then 2.

b Memo:

If no file name has been specified or if the file cannot be found, the appears.

Save As

dialog box

2. Select the drive and the folder, and then type

in the file name.

3. Click Save to save the data.

 The new file name appears in the title bar

of the PE-DESIGN PLUS window.

Exporting

The data shown in the Design Page can be exported as a file of a different format (.dst, .hus, .exp, .pcs, .vip, .sew, .jef, .csd, .xxx, and .shv).

Saving with a new name

1. Click 1, then 2.

1. Click 1, then 2

Page 21

Creating Embroidery Patterns

(3)

(4)

(1) (2)

(3)

(4)

(1)

(2)

2. Select the drive and the folder, and then type

in the file name.

3. Select a format (.dst, .hus, .exp, .pcs, .vip,

.sew, .jef, .csd, .xxx, or .shv) that the file will be exported as.

a Note:

Some patterns imported from embroidery cards cannot be exported.

Creating Embroidery Patterns

Photo Stitch 1 Parameters dialog box

With Color, Sepia or Gray:

With Mono:

“Specifying the number of jumps in

embroidery design of the DST format” on page 60.

Exiting Application

Click 1, then 2.

More detailed settings can be selected from the Parameters dialog box of Stitch Wizard.

Specify the desired settings under Sewing Option (1) and Color Option (2), and then click Update Preview (3) to preview the effects of the specified settings. Click Finish (4) to convert the image to an embroidery pattern.

Page 22

Creating Embroidery Patterns

(1) Sewing Option

Selecting a setting closer to Fine

Detail

Run Pitch

Sew Page Color (Available only with Color, Sepia and Gray)

Conversion Priority

Image Type

Add mask outline

creates more details in the pattern and increases the number of stitches. (The stitches will be overlapping.)

When the value is lowered, the sewing pitch (stitch length) will be shortened, resulting in finer stitching.

If this check box is cleared, the parts of the pattern that are the same color as the Design Page will not be sewn. If it is selected, those parts will be sewn.

To give priority to creating a pattern as close to the original photograph, select Stitch Quality.

To give priority to reducing the number of jump stitches, select Jump Stitch Reduction.

If Photo is selected, the thread colors will be mixed together, which will result in a more natural look.

If Cartoon is selected, the thread colors will not be mixed together, which will result in a more simply colored look.

Select Photo for image data from a photograph, etc. Select Cartoon for image data from an illustration, etc.

If this check box is selected, line data is created from the mask outline.

(2) Color Option

Color/Sepia/Gray

Auto Select

Manual Select

Thread Chart

Max. Number of Colors

Mono

Change Color

Select this check box to automatically select the thread colors.

Appears when the Auto Select check box is cleared. Click this button to open the Manual Select dialog box.

Selects the thread chart for selecting the thread color with the Auto Select function.

Sets the number of colors selected by the Auto Select function.

Click this button to display the Thread Color dialog box, where the thread colors can be changed.

“Memo:” on page 20

Color/Sepia/Gray/Mono

The top slider is used to adjust the

Brightness / Contrast

Select from Candidates

Update Preview

brightness. The bottom slider is used to adjust the contrast.

Variations of the image with different degrees of brightness and contrast are displayed. Click one of the variations, and then click OK to apply the settings.

Update the previewed image after settings have been changed.

on page 12.

b Memo:

About the

• From this dialog box, the thread color to be used with Photo Stitch 1 can be selected manually.

• To move the color selected in the to the

• To delete the color selected in the

Color List

• The thread colors in the

Color List

the brightest. This order is the sewing order and cannot be changed.

Manual Select

Use Color List

, click

Remove

dialog box

Add

Color List

are listed, in order, starting from

Color List

Use

and

Use

Page 23

Creating Embroidery Patterns

Image To Stitch

Photo Stitch 2

We will create an embroidery pattern with Photo Stitch 2 in a method different than that used with Photo Stitch 1.

Step 1 Starting the Photo Stitch 2 wizard

Step 2 Importing photo data into PE-DESIGN PLUS

Step 3 Applying an image mask and adjusting its size and position

Step 4 Changing the sewing angle

Step 1 Starting the Photo Stitch 2

wizard

Click , then , then .

Step 2

Importing photo data into PEDESIGN PLUS

Double-click the

PE-DESIGN PLUS\Tutorial folder to open it.

Documents (My Documents

b Memo:

When this application is installed, the

PE-DESIGN PLUS Documents (My Documents)

2. Select the file girl2-face.bmp, and then click

Open, or double-click the file's icon.

folder is installed in the

folder.

Page 24

Creating Embroidery Patterns

Step 3 Applying an image mask

and adjusting its size and position

1. Click 1 to select the circle mask.

Drag handle 2 to adjust the size of the mask, and drag the mask to adjust its position.

Click Next.

“Select Mask dialog box” on page 30

2. Click Next.

Step 4

Changing the sewing angle

1. In the Direction box, type “45”.

2. Click Update Preview.

3. Click Finish.

From this dialog box, the size and position of the image can be adjusted. For this example, we will simply continue to the next step.

“Gray Balance / Set Output Size dialog

box” on page 31

Page 25

Creating Embroidery Patterns

(3)

(4)

(1) (2)(1)

(3)

(4)

(1) (2)

■ Photo Stitch 2 Parameters dialog

box

With Color:

With Mono:

(1) Sewing Option

Line interval

(2) Color Option

Color

Thread Chart

Color Set

Thread Colors Used

Change Color

Mono

Change Color

Color/Mono

Brightness / Contrast

Update Preview

You can select the brand of thread to use with the Color Set function.

If Auto Select is selected, the most appropriate four colors will automatically be selected. Selecting a different option specifies the four colors used when creating the embroidery pattern. The color choices are: cyan (C), magenta (M), yellow (Y), black (K), red (R), green (G) and blue (B). Select one of the following combinations that contains the colors most used in the image. Color combinations: CMYK, RGBK, CRYK, BMYK

Displays the four selected thread colors.

Under Thread Colors Used, click a color. Then, click Change Color to display the Thread Color dialog box. Select the new color and click OK. The selected thread color will be applied to the image shown in the preview box.

Click on the Change Color button to open the Thread Color dialog box if you wish to change the color of the photo stitching. Select the color and click to make the color change.

The top slider is used to adjust the brightness. The bottom slider is used to adjust the contrast.

Updates the previewed image after settings have been changed.

Max. Density

Direction

Add mask outline

Lower value Higher value

0° 45° 90°

If this check box is selected, line data is created from the mask outline.

Page 26

Creating Embroidery Patterns

Auto Punch

In this section, we are going to use the Auto Punch function to automatically create an embroidery pattern from an image.

Step 1 Starting the Auto Punch wizard

Step 2 Importing image data into PE-DESIGN PLUS

Step 3 Applying an image mask and adjusting its size and position

Step 4 Creating a border from the mask outline and converting to an embroidery pattern

Step 1 Starting the Auto Punch

wizard

Click , then .

Step 2 Importing image data into

PE-DESIGN PLUS

Select the Tutorial folder, and then select penguin.bmp as the image.

“Importing photo data into PE-DESIGN

PLUS” on page 21

b Memo:

• Images with few and distinct colors work best with Auto Punch.

• Various clip art images can be found in the ClipArt folder (in the folder where PE-DESIGN was installed) at: C:\Program Files (Program Files (x86)) \Brother\PE-DESIGN PLUS\ClipArt

Step 3 Applying an image mask

and adjusting its size and position

1. Click 1 to select the circle mask.

Drag handle 2 to adjust the size of the mask, and drag the mask to adjust its position. Click Next.

The mask outline selected here can be used as line data (border) in Step 4.

“Select Mask dialog box” on page 30.

b Memo:

Page 27

Creating Embroidery Patterns

(1)

(5)

(4)

(9)

(7) (8)

(6)

(2)

(3)

(10)

These areas will not be sewn.

2. 1 indicates the Design Page.

Drag the image to adjust its output location and size. Click Next.

“Set Output Size dialog box” on page 31

Step 4

Creating a border from the mask outline and converting to an embroidery pattern

Select the Add mask outline check box, check the preview image, and then click Finish.

■ Auto Punch Parameters dialog

box

(1) Result View

The resulting analyzed image appears in the image preview box on the Result View tab. To display the original image, click the Original View tab.

(2) Omit Region Colors/Omit Line Colors

In the Omit Region Colors list and Omit Line Colors list, click the colors to select whether or not they will be sewn. You can select whether or not areas will be sewn by selecting their colors. Colors that are crossed out are set to not be sewn.

b Memo:

• To select whether or not a part of the image is to be sewn, click in the preview box on the

Result View Region Colors

• Areas filled with a crosshatch pattern on the

Result View

In addition, lines that appear as dotted lines will not be sewn.

(3) Zoom

tab, or click in the

and

Omit Line Colors

tab will not be sewn.

Omit

lists.

Page 28

Creating Embroidery Patterns

(4) Create Lines

Click this button to display the Select Regions dialog box, where the areas to be converted to lines can be selected.

Click the areas to be converted to lines, and then click OK.

(5) Thread Chart

Select the thread chart to be used.

(6) Add mask outline

If this check box is selected, line data is created from the mask outline.

(7) Noise reduction

Sets the level of noise (distortions) that is removed from the imported image.

(8) Segmentation sensitivity

Sets the sensitivity for the image analysis.

(9) Max. Number of Colors

Sets the number of colors used.

(10)Retry

To view the results of the changes, click this button.

Page 29

Creating Embroidery Patterns

Cross Stitch

Cross Stitch embroidery patterns can be created from images.

Step 1 Starting the Cross Stitch wizard

Step 2 Importing image data into PE-DESIGN PLUS

Step 1 Starting the Cross Stitch

wizard

1. Click , then , then .

Step 2 Importing image data into

PE-DESIGN PLUS

Select the Tutorial folder, and then select tulip.bmp as the image.

“Importing photo data into PE-DESIGN

PLUS” on page 21

2. Click Next.

From this dialog box, an image mask can be applied and its size can be adjusted. For this example, we will simply continue to the next step.

“Select Mask dialog box” on page 30

3. Click Next.

b Memo:

Various clip art images can be found in the ClipArt folder (in the folder where PE-DESIGN was installed) at: C:\Program Files (Program Files (x86)) \Brother\PE-DESIGN PLUS\ClipArt

From this dialog box, the size and position of the image can be adjusted. For this example, we will simply continue to the next step.

“Set Output Size dialog box” on page 31

Page 30

Creating Embroidery Patterns

(1)

(3) (2)

(4)

(5)

(6)

(8)

(7)

These areas will not be sewn.

4. Click Next.

In this dialog box, the cross size and the number of colors can be specified. For this example, we will use the default settings.

5. Click Finish.

■ Cross Stitch Parameters dialog

box

(1) Result View

Areas that will not be converted to crossstitching are shown with a crosshatch pattern.

(2) Omit Colors

In the Omit Colors list, click the colors to select whether or not they will be sewn.

b Memo:

• To select whether or not a part of the image is to be sewn, click in the preview box on the

Result View

list.

• Areas filled with a crosshatch pattern on the

Result View

tab, or click in the

tab will not be sewn.

Omit Colors

In this dialog box, stitches can be added, deleted or edited, and colors and the number of times each stitch is sewn can be specified. For this example, we will use the default settings.

(3) Zoom

(4) Cross size

Sets the size of the pattern.

(5) Thread Chart

You can select the brand of thread to use in the created cross stitch pattern.

(6) Max. Number of Colors

Sets the number of colors used in the created pattern.

(7) Retry

To view the results of the changes, click this button.

(8) Next

Continues to the next step (Edit Cross Stitch dialog box).

Page 31

Creating Embroidery Patterns

(6)

(7)

(2)

(3)

(4)(1)

(5)

■ Edit Cross Stitch dialog box

Click a button in (1) to select the type of stitch, select a thread color in (2), and then click or drag in (3) to edit the stitches.

(1) Selecting stitches

Selecting stitches to be added/deleted

(cross-stitches): Specifies a cross-

stitch inside a box.

(backstitches): Specifies a back stitch

inside ( or ) or on the edge (

or ) of a box.

(3) Editing area

 For cross-stitches

Clicking a box: Adds one stitch.

 For backstitches

Clicking an edge of a box: Adds one stitch at the edge.

Clicking a diagonal line in a box: Adds one stitch on the diagonal.

 For both cross-stitches and backstitches

Dragging the pointer: Adds consecutive stitches. Right-clicking/dragging with the right mouse button held down: Deletes one stitch/deletes consecutive stitches.

(4) Zoom

(5) Display Template

To display the imported image, click Display Template.

(6) Add mask outline

If this check box is selected, line data is created from the mask outline.

(7) Cross Stitch Times/Backstitch Times

For the number of times each stitch is to be sewn, select Single, Double or Triple.

(2) Color Option

To change the color, click Change Color to display the Thread Color dialog box, and then click the desired color. To select the color to be used for a stitch,

click , and then click the stitch to be sewn with that color.

a Note:

Stitch Parameters

stitches have been edited, the edited stitches are reset to their previous arrangement.

is clicked to return to the

dialog box after the

Cross

Page 32

Creating Embroidery Patterns

(1)

(4)

(5)

(2)

(3)

Common dialog boxes

■ Image To Stitch Wizard

When a conversion method is selected, a dialog box for selecting an image appears.

■ Select Mask dialog box

The Select Mask dialog box appears no matter which conversion method was selected.

(1) Drag the handles to adjust the shape of

the mask. Drag the mask to adjust its position.

a Note:

With a small original image, it may not be possible to reduce the size of the mask.

(2) Mask shapes

The image will be masked with the selected shape.

b Memo:

If is

moved and deleted to create a mask with the desired shape. To add points, click the outline of the mask. To move a point, select the point, and then drag it. To delete points, select the point, and

the

selected, points can be entered,

n press the key

Delete

Page 33

Creating Embroidery Patterns

Embroidery pattern size

(1)

Embroidery pattern size

(3) If Auto Generate was clicked, is

selected and an outline of mask was automatically detected from the image.

The Auto Generate button is available only with images that have a light-colored background, like in this photo.

(4) Zoom

(5) Clicking the Image Tune button displays

an Image Tune dialog box. Settings for Sharpness, Brightness and Contrast can be selected with the sliders.

■ Set Output Size dialog box

If Color, Sepia or Gray was selected for Photo Stitch 1, Photo Stitch 2 or Cross Stitch, or if Auto Punch was selected:

The following dialog box appears.

Adjust the position and size of the image, and then click Next to continue to the next step.

• Drag the image to the desired position.

• Drag the handle to adjust the image to the desired size.

b Memo:

Click

Fit to Page

size of the Design Page.

to adjust the image to the

■ Gray Balance / Set Output Size

dialog box

If Mono was selected for Photo Stitch 1 or Photo Stitch 2:

The following dialog box appears.

(6) To exit the Stitch Wizard, close the Select

Mask dialog box. To select a different image, click Cancel, and then repeat the procedure, starting by selecting a conversion method.

Adjust the position and size of the image and the gray balance, and then click Next to continue to the next step.

• Drag the image to the desired position.

• Drag the handle to adjust the image to the desired size.

• Drag the slider (1) to adjust the gray balance.

Page 34

Entering Text

The entered text appears.

(1)

Entering Text

This section describes the procedures for entering text and arranging it in the Transform style with a fan shape.

The sample file for this tutorial can be found at the following location.

Documents (My Documents)\PE-DESIGN PLUS\Tutorial

Step 1 Entering Text

Step 2 Transforming text

Step 3 Specifying character spacing

Step 1 Entering Text

1. Click , then .

2. Click in the Design page.

 A vertical dashed line will appear on the

Design Page for typing directly on-screen.

3. From the keyboard, type in “ABCD”.

b Memo:

• Text can also be entered by clicking characters in the character table (1) in the

Text Attributes

useful if you have to enter accented characters that are not available on your keyboard.

• Hold down the key and press the

Enter

key to enter a new line of text.

Hide List

• Click While it is hidden, click the character table.

tab. This is particularly

Ctrl

to hide the character table.

Show List

to display

a Note:

If the entered character is not available with the selected font or if the character cannot be converted to an embroidery pattern, the character appears as in the Design Page. If this occurs, enter a different character.

Page 35

Creating Embroidery Patterns

1 2

4. Press the key. The text appears in the

Design Page.

Enter

b Memo:

The character font, size, color and sew type can be changed.

“Setting text attributes” on

page 35 and “Embroidery attributes for text” on page 36

Step 2

1. Click the text to select it.

Transforming text

3. Drag , and to transform the text.

Adjusts the text size.

:Moves the text along the circle.

2. Select the Transform check box (1), and then

click 2.

Page 36

Creating Embroidery Patterns

:Adjusts the radius of the circle.

Step 3 Specifying character

spacing

Sets the spacing between all characters.

1. Click the text to select it.

2. Change the Character Spacing (1).

Specify the setting by clicking the selector and typing in the value, or by clicking or

0.0 mm

2.0 mm

b Memo:

• Character Spacing is always applied to the entire text pattern.

• To return to the default setting, click .

Text Attributes

• If the click the

Text Attributes

click

View

tab is not displayed,

tab in the Ribbon, and then

Page 37

Creating Embroidery Patterns

Advanced Operations for Entering Text

Editing entered text

1. First, select the Select tool.

Click , then .

2. Click a single text pattern to select it.

3. Click the Text Attributes tab (1).

If the Text Attributes tab is not displayed, click the View tab in the Ribbon, and then click Text Attributes. And then click in the text field (2).

Setting text attributes

Text attributes can be specified with the Font selector and Text Size selector in the Text Attributes pane.

b Memo:

Click

Text Attributes

Attributes

not displayed, click the and then click

pane. If the

■ Font

Click in the Font selector, and then click the desired font.

tab to display the

Text Attributes

View

tab in the Ribbon,

Text Attributes

Text

tab is

Memo of “Font List” on page 70

4. Edit the text as needed.

Press the key or click the Design Page.

Enter

■ Text size

Click in the Text Size selector. Type the desired

height and press the key, or click the desired value.

Enter

Page 38

Creating Embroidery Patterns

Embroidery attributes for text

When text is selected, settings can be specified for the following.

The Color pane allows you to set the thread color.

“Color” on page 47

The Sewing Attributes pane allows you to set the embroidery attributes.

“Sew type” on page 45

Page 39

Arranging Embroidery Designs

Arranging Embroidery De signs

Rotation handle

Handles

Shift

Arranging Embroidery Designs

Editing Embroidery Designs

■ Selecting all embroidery patterns

Selecting patterns

1. First, select the Select tool.

Click , then .

2. Click the pattern.

Click , then , then .

b Memo:

All patterns can also be selected by pressing

the shortcut keys + .

Ctrl A

Moving patterns

b Memo:

The status bar shows the dimensions (width and height) of the pattern.

3. To select an additional pattern, hold down the

Ctrl

key and click the other pattern.

b Memo:

• You can also select patterns by dragging the pointer across the pattern.

• Press the key to select the next pattern in the order that they were created.

• If multiple patterns are selected, a pattern can be deselected by holding down the

Ctrl

Tab

key while clicking the pattern.

■ Moving manually

Drag the selected pattern(s) to the desired location.

b Memo:

• To move the pattern horizontally or vertically, hold down the key while

dragging it.

• Pressing the arrow keys moves the selected pattern.

■ Moving embroidery patterns to

the center

Select the pattern(s), and then click ,

then .

Page 40

Arranging Embroidery Designs

Handles

Shift

1. The shape of pointer changes to

2. Rotate

Rotation handle

Scaling patterns

1. Select the pattern(s).

2. Drag the handle to adjust the selected

pattern(s) to the desired size.

a Note:

Some patterns imported from embroidery cards cannot be scaled.

b Memo:

• If the key is held down while a handle is dragged, the pattern is enlarged

or reduced from the center of the pattern.

• As you drag the handle, the current size is displayed on the status bar.

a Note:

Greatly Enlarging/Reducing Stitch Patterns

Ctrl

If the key is held down while the stitch pattern is enlarged or reduced, the thread

density and needle drop point pattern are maintained. However, if the original thread density and needle drop point pattern in the stitch pattern are not uniform, the thread density and needle drop point pattern may not be maintained, even by using this method. Enlarge/reduce the pattern while checking the preview. Do not use this method when only slightly enlarging/reducing the stitch pattern.

Rotating patterns

a Note:

Slightly Enlarging/Reducing Stitch Patterns

When stitch patterns are slightly enlarged or reduced, stitches become thicker or thinner without the number of stitches changing. In other words, greatly enlarging or reducing the pattern changes the quality of the embroidery since the thread density is adjusted. Use this method when only slightly enlarging/reducing the stitch pattern.

1. Select the pattern(s).

2. Drag the rotation handle.

b Memo:

To rotate the pattern in 15° increments, hold down the key while dragging the

handle.

Shift

Page 41

Arranging Embroidery Designs

Flipping patterns horizontally or vertically

Select the pattern(s), and then click ,

then .

Grouping/Ungrouping embroidery patterns

■ Grouping patterns

Select several patterns, right-click them, and then select Group in the pop-up menu that appears.

a Note:

Some patterns imported from embroidery cards cannot be flipped.

■ Ungrouping patterns

Select a grouped embroidery pattern, right-click it, and then select Ungroup in the pop-up menu that appears.

Page 42

Arranging Embroidery Designs

Checking Embroidery Patterns

Zooming

Click , then , then 1.

: Zooms In

: Zooms Out

: Zooms to Actual Size

: Fit selected objects to window

: Fit Design Page to window

Using the Pan tool

The part of the work area that is displayed can easily be changed by using the Pan tool.

Click , then , then drug to 1.

b Memo:

• Zooming is also possible by dragging the Zoom slider in the status bar or clicking the Zoom ratio.

“PE-DESIGN PLUS Window” on

page 61

• While zooming in or out, right-click to reverse the zooming operation.

Page 43

Arranging Embroidery Designs

(1)

(3)

(2)

Changing the display of the embroidery design

Click , then .

■ Solid View

b Memo:

Changing realistic view settings

1. Click , then ,

then .

2. If necessary, specify settings for

Thread Width (1), Contrast (2) and Brightness (3), then click Apply (OK).

■ Stitch View

You can display a stitch view of it in order to see how the stitching is connected.

■ Realistic View

You can display a realistic view of it in order to see how the design will appear once it is sewn.

Page 44

Arranging Embroidery Designs

(1) (4) (5)(2)

(6)

(7)

(3)

(8)

Checking the stitching with the Stitch Simulator

1. Click 1, then 2.

2. Click the buttons to view a simulation of the stitching.

(1) Starts the stitching simulation. During

stitching simulation, this button changes

to , which can be clicked to temporarily stop the simulation.

(2) Stops the simulation and returns to the

previous display.

(3) The slider shows the current location in

the simulation. In addition, the slider can be moved to change the position in the simulation.

: Returns to the beginning of stitching

and stops the simulation.

: Advances to the end of stitching and

stops the simulation.

(4) Drag the slider to adjust the simulation

stitching speed.

(5) Select this check box to automatically

scroll the simulation of the pattern when it is too large to be fully displayed.

(6) Click to hide the bottom section of the

Stitch Simulator. Click to display it again.

(7) Shows the number of the current stitch/

total number of stitches.

: Reverses the simulation by the indicated number of stitches.

: Advances the simulation by the indicated number of stitches.

(8) Shows the number of the color being

drawn/total number of colors used.

: Returns to the beginning of stitching for the current or previous thread color.

: Advances to the beginning of stitching for the next color.

b Memo:

• The Zoom tools and Pan tool can be used while a simulation is being viewed. If any other command is selected, the simulation stops.

• If a value is entered at (7) or (8), the simulation is reversed/advanced to the indicated location.

a Note:

• If a pattern was selected when the stitching simulation was started, only the selected pattern is drawn in the simulation.

• The

Auto Scroll

available in Realistic View.

check box is not

Page 45

Arranging Embroidery Designs

Blue line

Marching line

■ Selecting a pattern

Checking and Editing the Sewing Order

Click , then .

:Click to enlarge each pattern to fill its frame.

:Click to display in one frame all

patterns of the same color that will be sewn together.

b Memo:

When multiple same color patterns are combined into one

frame, appears to the left of that frame.

Click to display the combined same color patterns in separate frames.

appears under the first frame, and each frame is displayed with a subnumber following the first, to indicate its

sewing order within the patterns of the same color.

Click to recombine all of the same color patterns back into one frame.

1. Click a frame containing the pattern in the

Sewing Order pane.

b Memo:

• To select multiple patterns, hold down the

Ctrl

or key while clicking the

Shift

frames for the desired patterns. In addition, multiple frames can be selected by dragging the pointer over them.

2. Click at the top of the Sewing Order pane

to select the pattern in the Design Page corresponding to the frame selected in the Sewing Order pane. The pattern can also be selected by double-clicking its frame in the Sewing Order pane.

Page 46

Arranging Embroidery Designs

■ Editing the sewing order

The sewing order can be changed by selecting the frame containing the pattern, then dragging the frame to the new location. A red line appears, indicating the position where the frame is being moved.

An alternative method for moving the frames is by clicking the buttons at the top of the Sewing Order pane.

:Click to move the selected

pattern to the beginning of the sewing order.

:Click to move the selected

pattern ahead one position in the sewing order.

:Click to move the selected

pattern back one position in the sewing order.

:Click to move the selected

pattern to the end of the sewing order.

a Note:

Check the stitching after changing the sewing order to be sure that overlapping patterns will not be sewn in the wrong order.

2. Click the desired color in the Color pane.

“Color” on page 47.

■ Changing sewing attributes

1. Select one or more frames in the Sewing

Order pane, and then click the Sewing Attributes tab. If the Sewing Attributes tab is

not displayed, click View tab in the Ribbon, then Sewing Attributes.

2. Change the sewing attributes and sew type.

“Sew type” on page 45 and “Specifying

sewing attributes” on page 46

■ Changing colors

1. Select one or more frames in the Sewing

Order pane, and then click at the top of the Sewing Order pane.

 The Color pane appears in front of the

other panes.

Page 47

Arranging Embroidery Designs

Line sew Line sew type

Region sew

Region sew type

Applying Sewing Attributes to Lines and Regions

Setting the sew type

The Sewing Attributes pane allows you to set the embroidery attributes.

Line sewing on: Line sewing off:

b Memo:

The following embroidery patterns have an outline and inside region. Sewing for this line and region can be turned on or off, and their thread colors and sewing attributes can be specified.

• Patterns imported from the “Shapes”

category of Design Library

• Individual patterns of an ungrouped

pattern created with the Auto Punch function

■ Line sew

Click the Sewing Attributes tab. If the Sewing Attributes tab is not displayed, click the View tab in the Ribbon, and then click Sewing Attributes.

Region sew

Region sewing on: Region sewing off:

■ Sew type

switches on/off line sewing, switches on/

off region sewing.

b Memo:

When line sewing or region sewing is switched off, it is not sewn (and the color or sew type cannot be selected).

On: The Line sew type/Region sew type

selector are displayed.

Off: The Line sew type/Region sew type

selector are not displayed.

Use these to set the sew type for outlines, inside regions, and text patterns.

Click in a sew type selector, and then click the desired sew type.

 The available settings that appear differ

depending on the object that is selected.

Object type

Text None

Shapes

Line sew type

“Line sew / Region sew” on page 45 and “Specifying sewing attributes” on page 46

settings

Zigzag,

Running

Region sew type

settings

Satin,

Fill,

Prog. Fill

(programmable fill)

Satin,

Fill,

Prog. Fill

(programmable fill)

Page 48

Arranging Embroidery Designs

Adjust with slider.

(2)

(1)

Specifying sewing attributes

1. Select an embroidery pattern or the Text tool.

2. Click the Sewing Attributes tab.

Changing the pattern of programmable fill stitch

1. Select an embroidery pattern.

2. Display the Sewing Attributes pane.

3. From the Region sew type selector, select

Prog. Fill Stitch.

4. Click 1 below Programmable fill in the

Region sew section.

5. Click the fill stitch pattern, and then click OK.

(1) Click to return to the default setting.

(2) Hint view

With each change in the settings, a preview of the stitching can be checked here.

b Memo:

The sewing attributes displayed in the dialog box depend on the selected sew type.

3. Change the sewing attributes displayed under

Line sew or Region sew.

 The settings are applied to the

embroidery pattern each time the settings are changed.

For details on the different sewing

attributes and settings, refer to “Line sewing attributes” on page 68 and “Region sewing attributes” on page 69.

 The pattern is applied to the inside

regions of the embroidery pattern.

Page 49

Arranging Embroidery Designs

(4)

(5)

(2)

(3)

(1)

(4)

(5)

(2)

(3)

(6)

(7)

(8)

(9)

(3) From the list of thread colors, select the

Setting the thread color

The Color pane allows you to set the thread color.

■ Color

Click the Color tab. If the Color tab is not displayed, click the View tab in the Ribbon, and then click Color Palette.

• Palette mode

•List mode

■ Special colors

desired color.

(4) Click to switch the mode.

(5) Displays all thread colors being used in

the embroidery design. When an embroidery pattern is selected, a frame appears around the colors used in that pattern. The same thread colors can be specified by selecting them here.

(6) NOT DEFINED: If you want to be able to

manually select the color for a monochrome pattern, you can select NOT

DEFINED.

Colors for creating appliqués:

You can create appliqués using the following three special colors.

(7) APPLIQUE MATERIAL: marks the

outline of the region to cut from the appliqué material.

(8) APPLIQUE POSITION: marks the

position on the backing material where the appliqué must be sewn.

(9) APPLIQUE: sews the appliqué on the

backing material.

(1) Select the type of stitching (Line, Region)

whose color is being selected.

Line: Line color Region: Region color

(2) From the Thread Chart selector, select a

thread brand or your user thread chart.

Page 50

Arranging Embroidery Designs

1 2

Opening/Importing Embroidery Designs

Creating a new embroidery design

Click 1, then 2.

b Memo:

The size of the Design Page can be changed.

“Specifying the Design Page Size

and Color” on page 56

Opening a PE-DESIGN PLUS file

1. Click 1, then 2.

b Memo:

• To view the data in the selected folder as thumbnails in the

Browse

To see a more detailed design, select a file, and then click

• To open the displayed file, click

• If no files are listed, there are no .pes files in the selected folder. Select a folder containing a .pes file.

• If the selected file is in a format other than the .pes format, the message “Unexpected file format” appears in the

Browse

Preview

dialog box, click

Open

Preview

box.

2. Select the drive, the folder and the file, and

then click Open, or double-click the file's icon.

b Memo:

A file can be opened in any of the following ways.

• Drag the embroidery design from file Windows Explorer into the PE-DESIGN PLUS window.

• Double-click the embroidery design file in Windows Explorer.

Page 51

Arranging Embroidery Designs

Indicates the path to the currently selected folder.

b Memo:

Multiple files can be opened in PE-DESIGN PLUS. In addition, data can be copied and pasted between files that are open at the same time.

a Note:

If a .pes file created with PE-DESIGN NEXT or earlier is opened with this software, the message “This file will be imported into a new Design Page.” appears before the embroidery design is displayed on the new Design Page.

Importing embroidery designs

■ From Design Library

1. Click , then ,

then .

3. Select the file icon for the design to be

imported, and then click Import, or double click the file icon.

b Memo:

• The design can be imported by dragging its file icon from the Design Page.

• Multiple files cannot be selected to be imported at the same time.

• With the buttons at the top of the dialog box, change the location from where the file is to be imported.

4. Click to close it.

■ From a folder

1. Click , then ,

then .

Import

dialog box to the

Import

2. From the Category selector, select a category

to display the corresponding embroidery data.

2. Click .

Page 52

Arranging Embroidery Designs

3. Select a folder, and then click OK.

4. From the File Type box, select a file name

extension to display the corresponding embroidery data.

5. Select the file icon, and then click Import.

The file is imported.

a Note:

When importing designs from other vendors, be sure to choose a design that will fit in the Design Page.

■ From an embroidery card

1. Insert an embroidery card into the USB Card

Writer Module.

Refer to “Transferring to a machine by

using an original card” on page 52

2. Click , then ,

then .

 After the card has been read, the

embroidery designs on the card are displayed.

b Memo:

Since .dst files do not contain thread color information, the colors of an imported .dst file may not appear as expected. You can change the thread colors by using functions in the

Sewing Order

“Specifying the number of jumps in

embroidery design of the DST format” on page 60.

pane.

“Changing colors” on page 44

3. Select the file icon, and then click Import.

The file is imported.

a Note:

Due to copyright issues, some embroidery cards cannot be used with this function.

Page 53

Arranging Embroidery Designs

Checking embroidery

design information

Click 1, then 2.

Arranging Embroidery Designs

You can enter comments and information about the pattern to a saved .pes file.

b Memo:

• You can select and check the properties of individual patterns within the embroidery design by selecting the pattern before opening this dialog box. In this case, clearing the

Object(s)

box to display properties for all patterns in the Design Page.

• To display the colors as the machine’s preset color names, select the

Color

Show about selected

check box switches the dialog

with Basic

check box.

Page 54

Arranging Embroidery Designs

Transferring Embroidery Designs to Machines

The procedures for transferring the created embroidery pattern to an embroidery machine differ depending on your embroidery machine model. For details, refer to the Operation Manual provided with your embroidery machine.

Transferring to a machine by using an original card

Designs can be transferred to an embroidery machine equipped with a card slot.

a Note:

• Be sure that the hoop size of the design does not exceed the hoop that will be used on the embroidering machine.

• When writing to an original card that already contains data, all data on the card will be deleted. Before writing to a card, save all necessary data to a hard disk or other media, and check that no necessary data remains on the card.

“From an embroidery card” on

page 50

For details on writing multiple embroidery

designs, refer to “Writing Multiple Embroidery Files to an Original Card” on page 72.

2. Click , then ,

then .

3. When the following message appears, click

OK.

 Data transfer begins. The following

message appears while the data is being transferred.

1. Insert an original card into the USB Card

Writer Module.

4. After the data has been transferred, the

following message appears, indicating that the transfer is finished. Click OK.

Page 55

Arranging Embroidery Designs

Transferring to a machine by using USB media

Designs can be transferred to an embroidery machine compatible with the USB Host function.

1. Plug the USB media into the computer.

2. Click , then ,

then , then .

 Data transfer begins.

a Note:

If there is already a file with the same name at the destination, the following dialog box appears. Select whether to overwrite the existing file, to stop copying or to copy the file using a different name.

Transferring directly to a machine’s memory

Designs can be transferred to embroidery machines that can be connected to a computer using a USB cable.

1. Connect the embroidery machine to the

computer.

2. Click , then ,

then , then .

 Data transfer begins.

After the data has been transferred, the message “Finished outputting data.” appears, indicating that the transfer is finished. Click OK.

b Memo:

• For details on transferring designs with this method, refer to the Operation Manual provided with your embroidery machine.

• If multiple machines are connected, specify where the data is to be transferred in the area shown below.

Arranging Embroidery Designs

3. After the data has been transferred, the

message “Finished outputting data.” appears, indicating that the transfer is finished. Click OK, and then remove the USB media.

b Memo:

If multiple USB media are connected, specify where the data is to be transferred in the area shown below.

Page 56

Arranging Embroidery Designs

(3)

(4)

(5)

(2)

(1)

Printing

Specifying print settings

Before printing, you may need to change the print settings for the embroidery design files.

1. Click 1, then 2, then 3.

2. Specify the print settings.

(1) Specify the paper size.

(2) Specify the paper orientation.

(3) Print type

Actual Size:

Select this option to print the design at actual size and the sewing information (dimensions of the embroidery pattern, sewing color order, stitch count and hoop position) on separate pages.

Reduced Size:

Select this option to print a reduced image together with all of the abovementioned information on a single page.

(4) Print option

Print sewing area box & center axes:

Select this option to print black lines to indicate the sewing area and the center axes for the data. (This setting is only available when Actual Size is selected.)

Print template grid:

Select this check box to print green lines to represent the grid printed on the embroidery sheet included with the hoop.

Divide embroidery image into 2 pages:

Select this check box to print at actual size and on A4- or Letter-size paper a design that is larger than the paper size by dividing it in two and printing each half on different pages. (This setting is only available when

Actual size is selected in the Print Setup dialog box and when the Design

Page is set to the larger hoop sizes. This setting is not available if a User Hoop size is selected.)

With this split printing feature, /

or / is printed in the lower-right corner of the paper to indicate which

half is printed.

(5) Stitch image

Normal:

Select this option to print the design as lines and dots.

Realistic:

Select this option to print a realistic image of the design. To change the settings of the realistic image, click Attributes.

“Changing realistic view settings” on

page 41

3. Click OK.

“Changing the display of the embroidery

design” on page 41.

Page 57

Arranging Embroidery Designs

Checking a print image

You can preview the contents of the Design Page before printing.

1. Click 1, then 2, then 3.

Printing

You can print the Design Page together with its sewing information.

1. Click 1, then 2, then 3.

2. Select the necessary settings.

b Memo:

The print image can also be displayed by clicking dialog box.

Print Preview

in the

Print Setup

3. Click OK to begin printing.

4. Follow the instructions for the printer to finish

printing.

Page 58

Arranging Embroidery Designs

(5)

(1)

(4)

(3)

(6)

(2)

(1)

(4)

(5)

(6) (3)

(2)

Specifying the Design Page Size and Color

The color and size of the Design Page can be changed. You can select a Design Page size according to the size of hoop that you will be using with your embroidery machine.

1. Click , then .

2. Specify the settings for the Design Page, and

then click OK.

(1) Hoop Size:

Select the desired hoop size from the selector.

(2) Rotate 90 Degrees:

Select this check box to arrange the pattern in a Design Page rotated 90°.

(3) Page:

Select the desired color for the Design Page.

(4) Background:

Select the desired color for the work area.

(5) Default:

To return to the default settings, click this button.

(6) Edit User Hoop:

Click this button to display the User Hoop Settings dialog box, where a user hoop size can be added. The added user hoop size appears at the bottom of the list.

User Hoop Setting

(1) Width, Height:

Type in the size of the hoop to be added.

(2) Comment:

If text was entered in this box, that text appears beside the size.

(3) Add Hoop:

Click this button to add the hoop size.

(4) User Hoop List:

The added hoop size appears in the list. Select a hoop size in this list to change the display order or to delete it.

(5) Up, Down:

Click these buttons to move the selected hoop size up or down in the display order.

(6) Delete Hoop:

Click this button to delete the selected hoop size.

a Note:

• A User Hoop cannot rotate 90°.

• Do not create a Custom Hoop larger than the embroidery hoop that can be used with your machine.

a Note:

Do not select a hoop size larger than the embroidery hoop that can be used with your machine.

Page 59

Arranging Embroidery Designs

Changing Application Settings

Changing the grid settings

A grid of dotted lines or solid lines can be displayed or hidden, and the spacing for the grid can be adjusted.

System unit

Click / to switch the measurement units between millimeters and inches.

1. Click .

2. Specify the grid settings.

b Memo:

The system units can also be changed with the following operation.

Click 1, then 2.

Show Grid: Select this check box to display the grid.

Snap to Grid: Select this check box to align patterns with the grid.

Interval: Specify the grid spacing.

b Memo:

The snap feature works whether or not the grid is displayed.

System Unit

Click desired measurement units (

, and then select the

inch

Page 60

Arranging Embroidery Designs

(11)

(10)

(1)

(7)

(8)

(9)

(2) (3) (4)

(5) (6)

Editing user thread color lists

If you have a list of thread colors that are frequently used, they can be saved in a user thread chart.

1. Click , then .

■ Creating a new thread chart

1. Click New Chart (1).

2. Type in the name of the chart, and then click

OK.

b Memo:

A saved chart can be selected from the

Thread Chart

selector.

User

2. A user thread chart can be saved, edited or

deleted.

 The operations that can be performed are

described below.

■ Deleting a chart

1. From the User Thread Chart selector (7),

select the chart.

2. Click Delete Chart (2).

3. If a message appears, click Yes.

■ Editing a chart

1. From the User Thread Chart selector (7),

select the chart.

2. Continue with the appropriate procedure. To

save the changes, click OK.

■ Adding items from a thread chart

1. From the Thread Chart selector (9), select the

brand of thread.

2. From the list (10), click the thread colors.

b Memo:

To add multiple items, hold down the

Ctrl

or keys while selecting thread colors.

Shift

3. Click (11).

 The selected items are added to the list in

the user thread chart (8).

Page 61

Arranging Embroidery Designs

(A)

■ Adding a new item

1. Click New Item (4).

2. To create a new color, click Mix.

3. Specify the color, and then click OK to add the

specified color to the Edit Thread dialog box.

■ Editing an item

An item registered in the list for a user thread chart can be edited to change the color or thread number.

1. From the list for the user thread chart (8),

select the item to be edited, and then click Edit Item (6).

2. Edit the item details in the same way as

adding a new item.

b Memo:

As with newly added items, an asterisk (*) appears in front of the index number of edited items.

b Memo:

The color cannot be changed if the slider (A) is moved to the top of the scale.

4. If necessary, type in the code, brand and

description into the appropriate boxes.

b Memo:

Only numbers can be entered for the code.

5. Click OK to add the new item to the user

thread chart (8).

b Memo:

An asterisk (*) appears in front of the index number for items created or edited by the user.

■ Deleting items

1. From the list for the user thread chart (8),

select the item to be deleted.

2. Click Delete Item (5) to delete the item from

the user thread chart.

Page 62

Arranging Embroidery Designs

■ Changing the order of items

1. From the list for the user thread chart (8),

select the item to be moved.

Specifying the number of jumps in embroidery design of the DST format

2. Click Up or Down (3) to change the order of

the item.

a Note:

Thread colors in embroidery patterns created with this application may appear differently on the embroidery machine, depending on the model used.

1. Embroidery machines without a function for displaying thread colors The specified thread color information cannot be displayed at all.

2. Embroidery machines with a function for displaying thread colors Of the thread color information specified in the embroidery pattern, only the thread color names are displayed on the machine. However, the names that are displayed are limited to the machine's preset thread color names. Therefore, the machine displays the names of its preset thread colors that are closest to the colors specified in the embroidery pattern.

3. Embroidery machines with a thread color index Some machines can display the thread information specified with this application. However, for thread colors that have been edited or added by the user (thread colors with an asterisk (*) at the left side), only the thread number is displayed.

b Memo:

The edited user thread chart can also be used on a different computer. Simply copy

chart2.btc C:\Program Files (Program Files (x86))\Brother\PE-DESIGN PLUS\Color

the original computer to the same path on the destination computer.

from

Color

folder at the

With the DST format, you can specify whether or not the jump stitches are trimmed according to the number of jump codes. Since the number of codes differ depending on the embroidery machine being used.

Display the Options dialog box.

“Customizing Quick Access Toolbar/

Shortcut keys” on page 63

Select DST Settings (1), specify the number of jumps, and then click OK.

To specify a setting for importing, enter a value beside DST Import Setting (2). To specify a setting for exporting, enter a value beside DST Export Setting (3).

DST Import Setting

If the number of consecutive jumps in the DST file is less than the number of jumps specified here, those consecutive jumps will be replaced with a stitch. If the number of consecutive jumps in the DST file is greater than or equal to the number of jumps specified here, those jumps will be replaced with a jump stitch where the thread is trimmed.

DST Export Setting

When .pes files are output, jump stitches with thread trimming are replaced with more consecutive jump codes than the specified number of jumps.

Page 63

Supplement

1 2

Understanding Windows

PE-DESIGN PLUS Window

1 Application button

Click to display a menu containing commands for file operations, such as New, Save and Print.

2Ribbon

Click a tab at the top to display the corresponding commands. Refer to the name below each group when selecting the desired command. Clicking a

command with the mark displays a menu containing a choice of commands.

3 Quick Access Toolbar

This contains the most frequently used commands. Since this toolbar is always displayed, regardless of the Ribbon tab that is selected, adding your most often used commands makes them easily accessible.

4 Option button

Click this button to specify settings for the Design Page and user thread chart.

5 Help button

Click this button to display the Operation Manual and view information about the software.

“Customizing Quick Access Toolbar/ Shortcut keys” on page 63

6 Sewing Order pane

This pane shows the sewing order. Click the buttons at the top of the pane to change the sewing order or thread color.

7 Color/Sewing Attributes/Text Attributes pane

This pane combines tabs for specifying thread colors, sewing attributes and text attributes. Click a tab to display the available parameters.

8 Stitch Simulator pane

The Stitch Simulator shows how the pattern will be sewn by the machine and how the stitching will appear.

9 Design Page

The actual part of the work area that can be saved and sewn.

10 Work area

11 Status bar

This displays the size of the embroidery data, the number of stitches or a description of the selected command.

12 Zoom

This displays the current magnification ratio. Click to specify a value for the magnification ratio. Drag the slider to change the magnification ratio.

Page 64

Supplement

(A) (B)

(A)

b Memo:

• Panes 6, 7 and 8 can be displayed or hidden from the

View

tab. In addition, these panes can be displayed as separate dialog boxes (

Floating

(

Docking

• Position the pointer over a command to display a ScreenTip, which provides a description of the command and indicates its shortcut key.

Show/Hide

) or attached to the main window ).

Example: With (A) selected and a check mark beside (B)

group in the

■ Quick Access Toolbar commands

Customizing the window

■ Quick Access Toolbar/Ribbon

A menu appears when 1 in the Quick Access Toolbar is clicked.

Click (A) to move the Quick Access Toolbar below the Ribbon. To return it to its original position, display the menu as described above, and then click Show Above the Ribbon.

If a check mark appears beside (B), the Ribbon is minimized. When a tab is clicked, the Ribbon appears. After a command is selected, the Ribbon is minimized again. To restore it to its original display, clear the check mark.

The first time this application is started up, the following commands appear in the Quick Access Toolbar (A).

: Wizard : Solid View

: New

: Open : Realistic View

: Save : Undo

: Zoom : Redo

Click 1, then 2 to switch between displaying and hiding each command. When the check mark is cleared, the command is hidden. Alternatively, changes to the Quick Access Toolbar can be specified in the Options dialog box and all applied at the same time.

“Customizing Quick Access Toolbar/

Shortcut keys” on page 63

: Stitch View

Page 65

Supplement

■ Color/Sewing Attributes/Text

Attributes pane, Sewing Order pane and Stitch Simulator pane

Floating

Each tab or the entire pane can be undocked to become a dialog box that can be moved around the screen.

• Double-click the title bar of the pane, or tab.

• Right-click the pane or tab, and then click

Floating.

• Drag a tab out of the pane.

Docking

Each pane can be docked back to the window.

• Double-click the title bar.

• Right-click the pane, and then click

Docking.

• Drag the title bar to the location where the pane will be docked.

Hide

When a tab or a pane is no longer needed, it can be hidden.

• Click in the upper-right corner of the dialog box.

• Right-click the tab or dialog box, and then click Hide.

• To hide the tab, click View tab in the Ribbon, and then click the name in the View tab. To display the tab again, perform the same operation.

Auto Hide

When a pane is temporarily not needed, it can be moved to the side bar, then displayed by clicking it or positioning the pointer over it. The pane is automatically hidden again when it is no longer being used, for example, when you click anywhere outside of the pane.

• Right-click the tab or the title bar of the pane, and then click Auto Hide.

• In the upper-right corner of the pane, click

To cancel Auto Hide, right-click the title bar, and then click

Auto Hide

, or simply click in the title bar.

■ Using access keys

When the key is pressed, a KeyTip (label showing the letter of the access key) appears on each command. On the keyboard, press the key corresponding to the command that you wish to use.

To stop using the access keys and hide the KeyTips, press the key.

Alt

Customizing Quick Access Toolbar/Shortcut keys

1. Click 1, then 2 to display the Options dialog

box.

b Memo:

The

Options

using either of the following methods.

• Click at the right end of the Quick Access Toolbar, and then click

Commands

• Click window, and then click

dialog box can also be displayed

Option

in the upper-right corner of the

Options

b Memo:

The Stitch Simulator pane cannot be temporarily hidden (Auto Hide).

Page 66

Supplement

(1)

(2)

(3)

(4)

(5)

(6)

(7)

(A)

(8)

(1)

(4)

(5)

(6)

(3)

(2)

■ Quick Access Toolbar

1. Click Customize.

2. Repeat the following operations until the

desired commands are displayed.

(1) Choose commands from: selector

Select a command category.

(2) Commands: list

Select the command to be added.

(3) Add button

Selected command is added. The command appears in (A).

(4) Remove button

Selected command is removed. The command is removed from (A).

(5)

Select an icon in (A), and then click the buttons at to move it to the desired position.

(6) Reset button

Reverting to the default commands.

Settings for the following can also be specified from this dialog box.

(7) Show Quick Access Toolbar Below the

Ribbon

Select where the Quick Access Toolbar is displayed. Select the check box to display the Quick Access Toolbar below the Ribbon.

(8) Keyboard shortcuts

Click Customize to customize shortcut keys.

3. After the settings have been specified, click

OK to apply them.

“Shortcut keys” on page 64

■ Shortcut keys

1. Click Customize, then Customize (8).

2. In the Categories list, select a command

category. Then, in the Commands list, select the command whose shortcut keys are to be specified.

 The default shortcut keys appear in the

Current Keys box (1).

3. Use the keyboard to record the new shortcut

keys in the Press new shortcut key (2) box, and then click Assign (4). The new shortcut keys appear in the Current Keys box (1).

 Usage information about the entered key

combination appears. If the key combination has already been assigned to another command, the name of that command appears at (3).

To remove the default or specified shortcut keys, select the shortcut keys in (1), and then click Remove (5).

To revert to the default settings, click Reset All (6).

4. Repeat steps 2 and 3 until the desired shortcut

keys have been specified for the commands, and then click Close.

5. Click OK in the Options dialog box.

Page 67

Supplement

Menus

(1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7)

Application button menu

Supplement

Menu Reference

New

Open

Save

Save As

Design Property

Wizard

Export File

Options

Exit

p. 48

p. 18

p. 51

p. 54

p. 10

p. 18

p. 57, p. 60, p. 63

p. 19

Ribbon menu tabs

■ Home tab

No. Menu Reference No. Menu Reference

Select

Zoom

(1)

Pan

Photo Stitch 1

Photo Stitch 2

(2)

Auto Punch

Cross Stitch

Te xt

(3)

Import Patterns

p. 37

p. 40

p. 11, p. 19

p. 21

p. 24

p. 27

p. 32 (6)

p. 49 (7)

Flip Vertically/Horizontally

(4)

Move to Center

Cut

Copy

Paste

(5)

Duplicate

Delete

Design Page Settings

Send

p. 39

p. 37

—

p. 56

p. 52

Page 68

Supplement

(1)

(2)

(3)

■ View tab

No. Menu Reference No. Menu Reference

Solid View

Stitch View

(1)

Realistic View

Sewing Order

Stitch Simulator

(2)

Sewing Attributes

p. 41

p. 43

p. 42

p. 46

(2)

(3)

Text Attributes

Color Palette

Show Grid

Snap to Grid

Grid Interval

p. 32, p. 35

p. 47

p. 57

Page 69

Supplement

Tips and Techniques

This software allows you to create a wide variety of embroidery patterns and supports wider ranges for the setting of the sewing attributes (thread density, sewing pitch, etc.). However, the final result also depends on your particular embroidery machine model. We recommend that you make a trial sewing sample with your sewing data before sewing on the final material. Remember to sew your trial sample on the same type of fabric as your final material and to use the same needle and the same machine embroidery thread.

Sewing Direction

In order to limit pulling or puckering, select a stitch direction perpendicular to the larger edge of the area.

Pulling or puckering more likely to occur Pulling or puckering less likely to occur

Sewing Order

After creating an embroidery pattern made of several different parts, be sure to check the sewing order and correct it if necessary.

The default sewing order is the order in which the elements are drawn.

Be careful when changing the sewing order since overlapping areas may be incorrectly positioned.

Sewing Wide Areas

• For best sewing results, set Under sewing to On when sewing wide regions.

For more details, refer to “Under sewing” on page 69.

• Changing the Sewing Direction setting prevents pulling-in or puckering of the stitching.

• When embroidering, use stabilizer material specifically for embroidering. Always use stabilizer material when embroidering lightweight or stretch fabrics, otherwise the needle may bend or break, the stitching may pull and pucker, or the pattern may become misaligned.

• When satin stitching is sewn in a wide area, the stitched area may shrink after sewing, depending on the material and the type of thread used. If this happens, switch to this alternate method: Select the fill stitch and use stabilizer material on the reverse side of the fabric.

Pattern After sewing

Page 70

Reference

Sewing Attributes

The sewing attributes for each sew type are first set to their default settings; however, by changing the settings of the sewing attributes, you can create custom stitching.

For more details, refer to “Line sewing attributes” on page 68 and “Region sewing attributes” on

page 69.

Line sew types

Zigzag Stitch Running Stitch

■ Line sewing attributes

The available attributes differ depending on the selected sew type.

Zigzag stitch

Sets underlay stitching on or off. To specify underlay stitching, select the check box.

Under sewing

Zigzag width

Density

Running stitch

Run pitch Specify the length of one stitch.

Run time(s) Specify the number of times the outline is sewn.

Off On

Narrow Wide

Coarse Fine

Short Long

1 time 5 times

Page 71

Supplement

Region sew types

Satin Stitch Fill Stitch Programmable Fill Stitch

■ Region sewing attributes

The available attributes differ depending on the selected sew type.

Satin stitch/Fill stitch/Programmable fill stitch

Sets underlay stitching on or off. To specify underlay stitching, select the check box.

Off On

Under sewing

With text patterns

With other patterns (Shapes)

Coarse Fine

Density

Direction

This cannot be specified for text patterns. Constant: Sews at a fixed angle.

Drag or select a value to specify the angle.

Variable: Automatically varies the sewing direction according to the shape of the region.

Constant Variable

Programmable fill stitch

Programmable fill

Click the pattern display box to display the Browse dialog box. Select the desired pattern from the list of patterns that appears.

Notes on programmable fill stitches

In some case of the sew type and pattern directions setting of a programmable fill stitch, lines will not be sewn. Use the Realistic View to view exactly how the stitch pattern will be sewn. To get an even better view, make test samples of different settings.

Examples of programmable fill stitching:

Example 1 Stitch direction: 45° (default)

Example 2 Stitch direction: 90°

Example 3 Stitch direction: 0°

Page 72

Supplement

Font List

Te xt

001

002

003

004

005

013

014

015

016

017

018

006

007

008

009

010

011

019

020

021

022

023

024

025

026

027

012

028

Page 73

Supplement

Te xt

029

030

031

032

033

Supplement

034

035

b Memo:

Uppercase letters of the English alphabet

Lowercase letters of the English alphabet

Numerals

Punctuation marks, brackets and other symbols

Uppercase and lowercase accented letters

Page 74

PES-Writer

Writing Multiple Embroidery Files to an Original Card

Starting up PES-Writer

Click , then All Programs, then PE-DESIGN PLUS, and then click PES-Writer.

Write to card

You can save multiple .pes or .pen files to an original card at the same time.

b Memo:

About .pen files

• .pen files, like .pes files, can be written to original cards.

• .pen files are copyright-protected embroidery data and can only be used with the compatible embroidery machine.

• Some features may not be available, for example, the embroidery cannot be previewed.

• These files can be purchased through the embroidery data sales site "iBroidery.com Download Center". (US only)

a Note:

• The original card is inserted correctly when you hear it snap into place.

• It is not necessary to turn off the computer when original cards are inserted or removed from the USB Card Writer Module.

2. From the Hoop size selector (1), select the

appropriate size of embroidery hoop.

b Memo:

• Do not select a hoop size larger than the embroidery hoop that can be used with your embroidery machine. Otherwise, the created original card will not work correctly with the embroidery machine.

• Make sure to select a hoop size that is the same or larger than the largest hoop size of the files you want to write to the card, otherwise the pattern cannot be written to

a card and “ ” appears.

3. Click 1, and then select the folder where the

desired pattern files (.pes or .pen) are saved, and then click OK.

1. Insert an original card into the USB Card

Writer Module.

“Transferring to a machine by using an

original card” on page 52

 The available pattern list displays the

image of the embroidery pattern files.

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Supplement

(1) (2)

(3)

(4)

4. Select an embroidery pattern from the

available patterns list (1), and then click 2 to add the pattern to the selected patterns list (3). After all embroidery patterns to be written are added to the selected patterns list, click 4.

• To deselect a file, click the white area around the pattern.

• To remove the embroidery pattern selected

in the selected patterns list, click

 The patterns are written to an original

card in the order that they are listed after all data already on the card is erased. After the patterns are written to the original card, the card containing the patterns can be used with the embroidery machine.

a Note:

• Since original cards are erased completely before patterns are written to it, it is useful to keep a copy with the contents of each card that comes with the software so that you can easily recover the files that were on the card.

“From an embroidery card” on

page 50

• To check the contents of the original card, open the Browse dialog box, and

then click , which appears at the top of the list in the Browse window. The

patterns saved on the inserted card appear in the available patterns list.

• Do not remove the card or unplug the USB cable while patterns are being written to the card (while the LED indicator is flashing).

■ Operation screen

(1) Icon size button

Switch between the large and small display size of the embroidery pattern images shown in the lists.

(2) Properties button

Display the information (size, number of stitches, and colors) for the pattern selected in either list. (This button is available only if a single pattern is selected.)

(3) Preview button

Display a realistic image of the pattern selected in either list. (This button is available only if a single pattern is selected.)

Card capacity indicator

(4)

hows the capacity of the patterns selected in the selected patterns list. The space used by patterns in the selected patterns list appears in blue.

The space used by the files selected in the available patterns list appears in light blue.

If several files exceed the available space, the progress bar appears in red.

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Supplement

Exiting application

Click in the upper-right corner of the window, or click File then Exit from the menu bar.

Selecting system units

1. Click Option, then Select System Unit from

the menu bar.

2. Select the appropriate units (mm or inch) and

then click OK.

Help menu

■ Operation Manual

Displays the Operation Manual.

Click Help, then Operation Manual from the menu bar.

■ About PES-Writer

Displays version and copyright information.

Click Help, then About PES-Writer from the menu bar.

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Supplement

Troubleshooting

If a problem occurs, click Customer Support on the menu of PE-DESIGN PLUS to visit the following Web site, where you can find causes and solutions to various problems and answers to frequently asked questions.

If you have a problem, check the following solutions. If the solutions suggested do not correct the problem, contact your authorized dealer or Brother Customer Service.

Problem Estimated Cause Solution Page

An operation not described in the installation procedure was performed. (For example, Cancel was

The software is not installed correctly.

The message “No card writer module is connected. Please connect card writer module.” appeared.

When trying to upgrade from an older version, the message “Cannot connect to the Internet.” or “The server could not be connected to. Wait a while, and then try connecting again.” appeared and the USB Card Writer Module could not be upgraded.

The USB Card Writer Module does not operate correctly.

clicked or the CD-ROM was removed before the procedure was completed.)

The installer does not automatically start up.

The driver for the USB Card Writer Module is not installed correctly.

The computer with the USB Card Writer Module connected to its USB port could not establish a connection to the Internet.

Not enough power is being supplied.

Follow the instructions as the software installs to correctly install the software.

Refer to the memo on page 6 of the Operation Manual, “If the installer does not automatically start up”.

When the USB connector is correctly plugged into the USB port, the installer for the driver of the USB Card Writer Module starts up.

To upgrade the USB Card Writer Module, the computer with the Card Writer Module connected to its USB port must connect to the Internet. If firewall software is being used, it must be temporarily disabled during the upgrade. If a connection to the Internet cannot be established, contact your authorized dealer.

Connect the USB Card Writer Module to a USB port on the computer or to a self-powered USB hub that can supply enough power to the Card Writer Module.

If the operation described at the left does not correct the problem, go to the Web site mentioned under “Technical Support”. (Refer to page 9.)

Page 78

Index

access key .................................................................. 63

Application button ....................................................... 61

Appliqué ...................................................................... 47

Auto Hide .................................................................... 63

Auto Punch ................................................................. 24

Auto Scroll .................................................................. 42

Back Stitch .................................................................. 29

Border Line ..................................................... 20, 23, 29

Card slot ....................................................................... 4

Card Writer ........................................................... 16, 52

CD-ROM ....................................................................... 5

centering ..................................................................... 37

Change Color ........................................................ 20, 23

checking

stitching .............................................................. 42

Color ........................................................................... 47

Color Option .......................................................... 20, 23

Color pane .................................................................. 61

combining

pattern colors ...................................................... 43

Computer ...................................................................... 5

Cross Stitch function ............................................. 27, 28

Design Page Settings ........................................... 56, 57

Design Page size .................................................. 56, 57

Design Property .......................................................... 51

Docking ....................................................................... 63

DST format ................................................................. 60

grid .............................................................................. 57

grouping embroidery patterns ..................................... 39

Hard disk free space ..................................................... 5

Help button ................................................................. 61

Hide ............................................................................ 63

Hint View ..................................................................... 46

Image to Stitch Wizard ................................................ 30

Image Tune ................................................................. 31

Image Type ................................................................. 20

importing

embroidery patterns ............................................ 49

Installing

Software ............................................................... 6

LED ............................................................................... 4

Line Interval ................................................................ 23

Line sew button ........................................................... 45

Line sew type selector ................................................ 45

line sewing attributes .................................................. 68

Manual Select ............................................................. 20

Max. Density ............................................................... 23

Max. Number of Colors ................................... 20, 26, 28

measurement units ..................................................... 57

Memory ......................................................................... 5

Monitor .......................................................................... 5

Edit User Thread Chart ............................................... 58

editing

sewing order ....................................................... 44

thread color charts .............................................. 58

thread colors ....................................................... 59

Embroidery attributes for text ...................................... 36

embroidery patterns

adding comments ............................................... 51

centering ............................................................. 37

exporting ............................................................. 18

from images ........................................................ 21

grouping .............................................................. 39

information .......................................................... 51

exporting embroidery patterns .................................... 18

fill stitch ....................................................................... 69

Floating ....................................................................... 63

Font List ...................................................................... 70

Font selector ............................................................... 35

New ............................................................................. 48

NOT DEFINED ........................................................... 47

number of jumps ......................................................... 60

Online Registration ....................................................... 9

opening

.pes file ............................................................... 48

new Design Page ............................................... 48

PE-DESIGN PLUS file ........................................ 48

Operating system .......................................................... 5

Option button .............................................................. 61

Options ....................................................................... 65

Page 79

Index

.pen files ...................................................................... 72

.pes files ...................................................................... 72

Pan .............................................................................. 40

pattern information ......................................................51

adding comments ................................................ 51

Photo Stitch 1 ........................................................ 11, 19

Photo Stitch 2 .............................................................. 21

Port ............................................................................... 5

previewing ................................................................... 41

Printer ........................................................................... 5

printing

embroidery patterns ............................................ 55

preview ................................................................ 55

settings ................................................................ 54

Processor ...................................................................... 5

Programmable fill stitch ............................................... 69

Property ...................................................................... 51

Quick Access Toolbar ..................................... 61, 62, 63

Realistic View .............................................................. 41

settings ................................................................ 41

Redo ........................................................................... 62

Region sew button ......................................................45

Registration ................................................................... 9

Ribbon ......................................................................... 61

Run Pitch ....................................................................20

running stitch ............................................................... 68

Technical Support ......................................................... 9

Text Attribute pane ...................................................... 61

Text Attribute Setting ..................................................35

Text Size selector ....................................................... 35

Thread Chart ......................................................... 20, 23

Thread Colors Used .................................................... 23

Transferring ........................................................... 16, 52

Under sewing ........................................................ 68, 69

Undo ........................................................................... 62

uninstallating ................................................................. 9

units of measure .........................................................57

USB cable ............................................................. 17, 53

USB media .................................................................. 53

USB port ....................................................................... 5

user thread color list .................................................... 58

Window ....................................................................... 61

Write to Card ................................................... 16, 52, 72

zigzag stitch ................................................................ 68

Zoom ........................................................................... 40

Zoom ratio ................................................................... 61

satin stitch ................................................................... 69

saving .......................................................................... 18

Scaling patterns ..........................................................38

Select from Candidates ............................................... 20

selecting

all embroidery patterns .......................................37

colors ............................................................ 20, 23

patterns ............................................................... 37

Sew Page Color .......................................................... 20

Sew type selector ........................................................ 45

Sewing Attribute pane ................................................. 61

sewing attributes

setting ................................................................. 46

sewing direction

programmable fill stitch ....................................... 69

Sewing Option ....................................................... 20, 23

sewing order

editing ................................................................. 44

Sewing Order pane ..................................................... 61

Shortcut keys ..............................................................64

Solid View ...................................................................41

Special colors .............................................................. 47

Status bar .................................................................... 61

Stitch Simulator ..................................................... 42, 61

Stitch View ..................................................................41

System Requirements ................................................... 5

Page 80

XF0606-001

English

Printed in China

Brother PE-DESIGN PLUS User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual