so I need a tutorial that will teach me quickly how to digitize those crosses. Besides - her tutorial goes in depth, but doesn't really teach you to digitize from clipart unless I missed something. Most importantly - which format do I buy when I'm buying clipart? Then is it just a matter of using the trace tool? I know it can auto-digitize and that it may not produce the best results, but I've got to start somewhere. I get myself into Embird and then I get stuck because I can't figure out how to do something as simple as draw a straight line. AAAAHHHHHH!

Mops has given you very good pointers :-)
I prefer to use bmp format.. but this is purly
because embird works with both formats but I have other software that only used bmp format.
If I like the designs I may also download in eps format again because I have other software that works with eps format..
Embird is very vesatile so rather then downloading every format choose which format you are more likey to use.
Big hugs from London
Maria xx

I would not start with autodigitising before you have done the manual work - that way you have acquired an eye for auto's weaknesses and can remedy it - and only very very simple forms will be satisfactory.
For simple lessons go to clipartopolis - link below - you will find a number of easy tutorials, start with the first one and you'll know how to import an image (jpg I always use) and start digitising. Have fun.