Machine embroidery
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Machine embroidery is the practice of using a sewing machine to create stitch patterns, and so to embroider set motifs or personal designs on to cloth. All sweatshirts with stitched motifs use the process of machine embroidery. This is done by lifting the top tension foot of the machine, although sewing machines can come equipped with specific embroidery feet. It is also possible to purchase specific embroidery machines which can follow computerised design patterns, and re-create them on the backing cloth.
In order to get a quality finish on machine embroidery project the fabric must be held in tension in the same way that hand embroidery is. A Hoop is the most simple method and some machines even come with hoops provided. In order to allow the free movement of the fabric over the dog teeth (the teeth that move the fabric back as you are carrying out normal straight stitching), the dog teeth must be disengaged. This allows the embroiderer to make tiny circular movements and stops the machine forcing you to make linear stitches.
It can be used in a myriad of ways and altering the tension of the thread as it runs through the machine can have a variety of effects, as can altering the weight of one or other of the threads. It is often better to uses a heavier thread in the bobbin, as the needle tends to designate how thick the top thread can be. There are no rules in machine embroidery and thus anything can be put through the machine providing it won't break the machine!!
Machine embroidery can be used in a variety of ways. Individual artwork can be created, and the machine stitches manipulated to form a variety of styles, or it can simply be used to take the place of traditional handicrafted monogram.
To become a skilled machine embroiderer takes practice and time. There are often many courses or evening classes available to aid competence, and allow people to enjoy using their sewing machines in this unique way.