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FREEHAND MACHINE EMBROIDERY FAQS by Alison
Frequently Asked Questions
SILK DYES/PAINTS
I always use Deka Silk Paints as the base of the compositions and for painted detail such as sky

SILK
I use 8mm Habutai white silk, this is medium weight, even weave smooth silk

SEWING MACHINES
I am often asked for advice on sewing machines. Unfortunately I am not an expert on the machine you own so its best to read your manual.

I always use and recommend a Bernina, the one I use in my studio was made in 1965, the one I demonstrate with is a Bernina 1020, it is 25 years old.

I also have a Bernina 1008, it is their current most basic model which is perfect for free-hand machine embroidery. For more information about their machines go to the links page and click on Bernina Sewing Machines.

Buying secondhand is always an option online or a local dealer.

As long as it is an electric sewing machine, you dont need a computerised model. Preferably with an extension table to support the hoop and a removable bobbin case so the bobbin tension can easily be altered. A stitch width control dial easier to control than push button controls and the feed dogs will need to be lowered.

I have always worked without a presser foot but some people and machines are happier with a darning foot.

Hopefully all the answers are here...
if not try here