Embroidery Machine
General Information
The Berea Makerspace has two embroidery machines available for member use. Both machines can be found inside the Clean Room near the sewing area. These machines combine advanced technology with user-friendly features for all skill levels.
If you have any issues with this equipment, the slack channels associated with this space include: #general, #shop-sewing, and #shop-embroidery.
Available Machines
| Machine | Key Features | Status | Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brother Dream Machine 2 Innov-ís XV8550D |
|
Operational | Machine Page |
| Brother PE-550D |
|
Operational | Machine Page |
Orientation and Access
Use of either embroidery machine requires authorization by an approved instructor. Visit the Embroidery Machine page for details on upcoming workshops and training sessions.
Training Note: While the Dream Machine 2 and PE-550D have different feature sets, their basic operation is similar enough that training on the Dream Machine 2 covers the fundamentals needed for both machines.
Basic Embroidery Workflow
This general workflow applies to both machines. See individual machine pages for specific instructions.
1. Design Selection
- Choose a built-in design or import your own via USB
- Position and resize the design on the virtual hoop using the touchscreen
- For the Dream Machine 2, you can also use the InnovEye 2 camera to scan drawings or position designs
2. Machine Setup
- Select the correct hoop for your design size (4"x4" for PE-550D; various sizes up to 9.5"x14" for Dream Machine 2)
- Hoop your fabric with appropriate stabilizer
- Attach the hoop to the machine
- Attach embroidery foot "W+" (Dream Machine 2) or appropriate foot
3. Threading
- Thread the machine following the numbered path
- Ensure proper tension for both upper thread and bobbin
- Use the automatic needle threader when available
4. Test Run
- Perform a test stitch on scrap fabric
- Check tension and adjust if needed
- Verify design placement
5. Start Embroidering
- Press the start/stop button
- Monitor the first few stitches
- Watch for thread breaks or tension issues
6. Finishing
- Remove the hoop carefully
- Cut excess threads
- Remove stabilizer according to project needs
Software and Design
Supported File Formats
Both machines support common embroidery formats:
- PES (Brother's native format)
- DST, EXP, JEF, PEC, PED, SEW, and more
Design Transfer Methods
- USB Drive - Works with both machines
- Wi-Fi - Dream Machine 2 only (wireless transfer with optional software)
- Cloud Connectivity - Dream Machine 2 only
- Built-in Camera - Dream Machine 2 only (scan drawings and illustrations)
Software Recommendations
- Brother PE-Design - Professional digitizing software
- InkStitch (Inkscape plugin) - Free open-source digitizing option
- Embrilliance - Third-party design software
Needles, Thread, and Stabilizers
These items are considered consumables. Basic supplies may be available during orientation, but you should plan to provide your own for ongoing projects.
Needles
Both machines use standard home sewing machine needles (130/705H system). For embroidery, needle size 75/11 is recommended for most projects. Use 90/14 for heavyweight fabrics or stabilizers.
| Needle Type | Best For |
|---|---|
| Embroidery (75/11, 90/14) | Machine embroidery, has a slightly rounded tip |
| Ball Point (75/11, 90/14) | Knits and stretch fabrics, embroidering patterns with short jump stitches |
| Universal (75/11, 90/14) | General sewing, woven fabrics |
| Metallic (80/12) | Metallic threads |
| Topstitch (90/14) | Heavy fabrics, multiple layers |
Important: Change your needle regularly - every 8-10 hours of sewing or after every major project. A bent or dull needle can cause skipped stitches or thread breaks.
Thread Recommendations
- Use high-quality embroidery thread for best results
- Popular brands: Isacord, Madeira, Robison-Anton, Brother
- For bobbin work (Dream Machine 2), use No.5 or finer hand embroidery thread or flexible woven ribbon
Stabilizers
Proper stabilization is critical for good embroidery results:
- Cut-Away - Best for knits and unstable fabrics
- Tear-Away - Good for stable wovens
- Wash-Away - For freestanding lace and projects where no stabilizer should remain
- Heat-Away - Dissolves with heat from an iron
General Troubleshooting
These solutions apply to both machines. For machine-specific issues, refer to the individual machine pages.
Thread breaks frequently
- Re-thread the machine carefully (upper thread may be incorrectly threaded)
- Check needle for burrs or damage - replace if needed
- Verify tension settings are appropriate
- Check for lint buildup in tension discs or thread path
- Ensure bobbin is correctly installed
Design doesn't stitch correctly
- Verify hoop size matches design size
- Check that fabric is hooped tightly without distortion
- Ensure stabilizer is appropriate for fabric type
- Re-import the design file
Bobbin thread shows on top
- Upper tension is too tight - decrease tension setting
- Bobbin is incorrectly threaded - reinsert bobbin
- Bobbin thread may be incorrectly wound
Machine makes unusual noises
- STOP IMMEDIATELY and investigate
- Check for thread tangles in the bobbin area
- Ensure needle is properly inserted and not bent
- Look for lint buildup in moving parts
- Clean the race area
Fabric puckers during embroidery
- Stabilizer may be insufficient for fabric type
- Hoop tension may be too loose
- Thread tension may need adjustment
Maintenance
After Each Use
- Remove bobbin and clean bobbin case area with included brush
- Wipe down machine exterior
- Cover machine when not in use
Regular Maintenance
- Oil as directed in manual (specific points only) - Note: This machine should not be oiled by the user except as specified
- Change needles regularly
- Have machine professionally serviced annually
- Clean the race frequently to prevent lint buildup
- Clean the cutter in the bobbin case area if thread is not cutting cleanly
Cleaning
- Use the included brush and cleaning tools
- Never use compressed air - it forces lint deeper into mechanisms
- Keep screens clean with the included LCD cleaning cloth
- Do not use organic solvents or detergents on the machine casing