Faqs - embellisher

Questions regarding embellisher.
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Q. Ok. I have just purchased my Baby Lock Embellisher. Where do I start?
Q. Is the Embellisher used for decorative work only?
Q. Should embellishing be done from the right side or the wrong side?
Q. How do I change the needles?
Q. How often do I need to change the needles?
Q. Is it possible to create 3 dimensional pieces with the Embellisher?
Q. Do I have to use all seven needles?
Q. I'm breaking needles! I'm not using fabrics that are too thick, what am I doing wrong?
Q. Is it safe to wash embellished pieces?
Q. How can I stabilize lightweight fabrics for embellishing?
Q. I want to embellish several layers of fabric, but I'm concerned that it will break my needles. Is there a way around this?
Q. I want to embellish the edges of fine fabric. Is this possible?

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Q. Ok. I have just purchased my Baby Lock Embellisher. Where do I start?
A. The Baby Lock Embellisher comes with a project book which will give you some ideas on the types of projects you can create with your machine. There are also several groups at http://groups.yahoo.com dedicated to Embellisher questions, answers and inspirations. You can join the Baby Lock Mailing List to receive newsletters which will keep you informed on upcoming events, news, information and tips. The Embellisher is a machine which brings out unlimited creativity. Why not just have a play and see what you can create?
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Q. Is the Embellisher used for decorative work only?
A. The Embellisher can also be used to tack applique` in place. It is also very useful in hemming crochet and knit work garments, as it gives a completely invisible and secure hem.
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Q. Should embellishing be done from the right side or the wrong side?
A. Embellishing can be done from both sides of your work. If you embellish from the right/top side you will be able to create a strong, clearly defined image. If you embellish from the wrong side you will be able to create a softer, blurred image. This is also an excellent way to achieve a shadow effect.
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Q. How do I change the needles?
A. Unlike some other machines, you do not need to replace the entire needle shank when a needle breaks. The Embellisher comes with two alan key screwdrivers for changing needles. Insert the larger screwdriver at the red marking to loosen the entire needle shank. Remove the needle shank from the Embellisher and use the smaller screwdriver to loosen and remove the needle(s) you wish to change. Replace with new needle and tighten into position with small screwdriver. Then simply replace the needle shank with the red marking facing the front (towards you).
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Q. How often do I need to change the needles?
A. You will only need to change a needle if it breaks. Needles do not wear out, so there is no need to change a needle after a long period of use.
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Q. Is it possible to create 3 dimensional pieces with the Embellisher?
A. It certainly is. 3 dimensional objects such as flowers, leaves, bowls and jewellery have been created with the Embellisher. As well as this, you can bring landscape pieces to life by adding 3 dimensional elements such as trees and clouds. Experiment with your creations and push the boundaries of your imagination.
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Q. Do I have to use all seven needles?
A. Having seven needles means that you can cover a large area quickly. If you are working with delicate designs, you may not need or want to use all seven needles. Follow instructions given on removing needles and work with three, or five. It is completely up to you.
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Q. I'm breaking needles! I'm not using fabrics that are too thick, what am I doing wrong?
A. There are two potential reasons for this. The first is that the fabric is flapping under the needles as you are embellishing. You can easily fix this problem by lowering the safety guide. The second reason that needles may break has to do with pulling the fabric through while embellishing. When you pull at a piece that is being embellished, the needles are forced to bend and subsequently break. The needles need to remain in a straight position while embellishing, so beware of pulling fabric while embellishing.
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Q. Is it safe to wash embellished pieces?
A. The process of hand washing or machine washing embellished pieces will cause certain fibres to tangle and fuse together making the piece even more durable. Therefore many of your embellished pieces will be quite safe to machine wash. Another option for clothing is to make embellished trims removable for gentle hand wash. When hand washing, it is best to roll the piece in a towel to absorb the water, rather than wringing. Embellished garments can often be hung to dry, however heavier items should be dried flat. Not all types of embellishments will withstand washing, however not all types of embellishments need washing. Always test your embellishments for durability and use your own judgement. If a piece is very delicate and begins to detach with a gentle pull, it is not safe for washing.
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Q. How can I stabilize lightweight fabrics for embellishing?
A. Use a solid base with little to no stretch such as linen, denim or wool flannel. If you want to embellish with a lightweight fabric as the base, use a water soluble stabiliser such as Vilene. Yet another technique to try is using a hoop to keep the fabric taut as you embellish.
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Q. I want to embellish several layers of fabric, but I'm concerned that it will break my needles. Is there a way around this?
A. If you are concerned that your piece may be too thick to embellish, you can test it by turning the hand wheel toward you carefully. If the needles will not go through, your piece is too thick to embellish. Sometimes, thick areas of your work can be softened by turning the hand wheel repeatedly over the area. You will feel less resistance against the needles. Embellish carefully over the area that you have been softening.
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Q. I want to embellish the edges of fine fabric. Is this possible?
A. The Baby Lock Embellisher needle plate has seven separate holes. This means that it is possible to embellish even the edges of fine fabrics like organza and chiffons. Remember to hold the fabric taut to avoid flapping.