Mapping a redwork design. I just read with interest the post regarding jump stitches and using running stitches to avoid them. Do any of you awesome digitizers have any tips on the best way or system you use to map a redwork design with the fewest jumps? All I can think of is to print a copy of the picture, then just sit down and randomly try different paths. Thanks Carol

just a beginner beginner in digitizineg and a quick shot, if you can machine quilt in a contious line it will help to map a design too.

1 comment

by carolgm23 21 Apr 2012

I haven't machine quilted anything but that certainly makes sense. Will get a sample continuous line piece and practice. Hugs, Carol

Printing a copy is an excellent way of mapping, not just for redwork designs.
But lets stay with redwork.
Trace a line with a pencil as long as you can make it, then pick a new colour and do the same till you've got the lot covered with the minimum of lines. see picture for an example. I started at 1 and then went clockwise.
How to digitise depends on the software you are using.
In 3D, 4D and 5D you have to digitise the first line, then make running stitches to the next one and so on. It takes some puzzling and trying to avoid doubling to many already digitised lines.
You can change the order afterwards but it's a bit tricky when you want a double run.
Or you can use the semi-automatic digitising (Quick Trace) but that needs a lot of adjusting afterwards and I don't like the results.

For a single run using Embird you do it in the same way. A double run is quite easy - you digitise the lines and the software calculates the optimal path.

1 images:[1]

2 comments

by carolgm23 21 Apr 2012

Thanks mops (I think it's Martine??). That is kinda what I try to do. I use Thred, so you know my limits. I tried Stitch Era, but the language in it is so different, I had a hard time wrapping my brain around the terms. I do not like the auto digitize either, it made a mess. Hugs, Carol

by carolgm23 21 Apr 2012

digitizing either. Hugs, Carol

I'm only a beginner, but I have managed to minimise the jumps by hiding a line of running stitches directly under the redwork line to help me get to other parts of the design. You do have to have a good think about the order to stitch the various elemnts though! I don't think I've explained that very well - hope an expert comes along soon.

1 comment

by carolgm23 21 Apr 2012

Sue, you may be a beginner, but your works shout out "master digitizer"! I can only dream of being so good. Hugs, Carol