Stitch types and settings

Every object has a stitch type and a few settings. They’re in Object properties, in the right panel, split into tabs. The default values work for most designs.

Choose the stitch type

Select the object.
For fills, open the Fills tab; for lines and borders, the Outlines tab.
Choose under Stitch type.

Satin: stitches side by side, glossy. Ideal for lettering and narrow shapes.
Turning satin: the stitch follows the angle lines you set. See Drawing tools.
Tatami: a fill in rows, for large areas.
Running-stitch outline and Triple-run outline: the outline only (triple is bolder).
Satin border, Zigzag border and E-stitch border: border finishes, as on patches and appliqué.
On open shapes: Running stitch, Triple run, Satin (column), Zigzag and E-stitch.

The most used settings

Spacing: distance between fill stitches. Smaller = denser (more stitches); larger = more open.
Angle: stitch direction in satin and tatami.
Length (tatami) and Stitch length (running stitch).
Auto split: splits very long satin stitches so they don’t end up loose.
Auto spacing and Short stitches on curves: make satin more even on curves.

Underlay

The Underlay tab sets the stitches that go under the fill to stabilize the fabric: Center run, Edge run, Zigzag, Double zigzag or Tatami. The Margin pulls the underlay inward so it stays hidden.

Pull compensation

Fabric pulls stitches inward. Pull compensation lengthens each stitch slightly past the outline so the embroidery comes out the right size. Increase it on stretchy fabrics like knits and fleece.

Connectors and ties

Tie-in and Tie-off: tiny stitches that lock the thread at the start and end of the object.
Under For the whole design: the distance above which the machine trims the thread between objects (Trim if the next connector is longer than), the travel stitch length, and the length and number of tie stitches.
Inside a text, touching letters are joined by a hidden running stitch, with no jump or trim.

Tips

Test on a scrap of the same fabric before stitching the final piece, especially when changing spacing and compensation.
When in doubt, go back to the default: the initial settings are tuned for satin lettering.