I am interested in learning how to digitize. What are the best programs. Is there certain things we should look for.

Most of the better programs have free trials. I would buy the program from a dealer that offers classes/lessons. Even if you get a tutorial it is not the same thing. Many of the programs cost well over a thousand dollars so 'try before you buy' is a wise idea. I would try a basic program first... most people buy a program that's way more complicated than they will ever need. Look at www.DesignersGallerySoftware.com Gallery, for free trials of Masterworks2 and MW lite, www.Embird.com for a free trial of that program. www.Sophiesew.com has a free program to try to!
Beware online sellers that tell you that their version does not require a security key unlike the originals... these are hacked/stolen programs! ONLY buy NEW from an authorized dealer... A copy from someone who is not a dealer or a used copy of a program will get NO support from the mfr either. If you are in doubt call the company that made the software and they will help you.

Purplex, you can choose between one that goes with your brand of machine (like 4D for Pfaff/Husqvarna Viking, PEdesign for Brother and so on) or a general one like Embird. Brother has a trial download for, I think, a month. And there are others that offer the same service. As Shirlene said: go back through the Q&As, takes time but gives lots of information. Good luck.

perplex, how new are you to embroidery work? Have you had lots of time to sample different digitizers work and stitch them out so that you know what happens with all those stitches? If so, then you could try different digitizing software as a trial and get the one that fits your needs - don't jump at the first program - investagate - ask those that are making a living - if they would share something with you - read in the past Q&A area - there are lots of answers to this same question. Keep your eyes and ears open. Have fun. *4U

I have Embird digitizing software & I'm learning fast. Have not had any lessons but purchased a book from same people I got software from Secrets of Embroidery. The book is Step by Step Guide by Carolyn Keber & is easy to follow & understand. I do not know anything 'bout other digi software but I know there is more out there.

3 comments

by simplyrosie 14 Apr 2008

Hi lbrow. How do you like the book? Is it CLEARLY written so one can learn to digitize manually? I don't like images that have black outlines... that's why I'm a fan of most of the CUTE designs as well as Embroidery Library. xoxo

by lbrow 14 Apr 2008

Rosie the book is extremly clear if I can understand it anyone can. I purchased the book for $99. on sale I think it normally sells for about $119. I chose to have it sent to me, but you can choose to download it for less cost but it has 421 pages & I was afraid I might lose it if I did it that way some xs my printer gets beligerent on me. lol & I lose pages. Wish u were near me I'd be glad to let you look at mine

by simplyrosie 14 Apr 2008

The store where I bought my machine keeps telling me to NOT purchase Embird...but I cannot afford to buy something around 1-2K! My husband is in school full-time, and basically I support us all right now for another 16 more months. Frustrating... I'm still leaning towards Embird (for cost factors mostly). Thanks for the info! ;-)