Transferring the Designs onto Embroidery Cards

• Designs, motifs and fonts prepared for embroidery are transferred from embroidery editing software programs onto embroidery cards. The artwork is formatted to specific embroidery stitch file formats, like .DST, .ART, .HUS or .PES files. The stitch file format is determined by the type of stitch file the embroidery machine reads.
  
  

Writing Stitch Files onto Embroidery Cards

• A separate piece of hardware, referred to as a reader/writer box, is used to write the stitch file format directly onto an embroidery card. This box is connected directly into the personal computer's USB port with a cable. The embroidery editing program formats the design into a stitch file, read by the box and then written directly onto the card. Certain universal reader/writer boxes have separate software to convert stitch formats. The formatted card is then inserted into the embroidery machine's card slot to read and stitch out the design.
  
  

Reusable Embroidery Cards

• Design motifs or patterns saved in separate computer files are erasable on reusable embroidery cards. Designs are written directly over existing files. The same card is used multiple times, saving money. Bear in mind, once another design is written over an existing stitch file, it is permanently erased.
  
  

Pre-Made Embroidery Cards

• Patterns, design motifs and fonts are available as pre-made stitch files. These cards contain a variety of different embroidery patterns by category. For instance, fonts are available as alphabet cards with different styles, like Renaissance inspired fonts and sizes. Style borders, emblems, frames and initials are formatted for stitching. Embroiderers also use these card types for monogramming. These cards have specific requirements, like maximum stitch counts per minute; and specific embroidery hoop area requirements, like 4 by 6 inches or 5 by 7 inches.
  
  

Quilts, Linen and Lace Embroidery Cards

• You can personalize gifts and embellish home decor items or garments with pre-made embroidery cards. Quilters can use pre-made quilt design cards which contain patterns formatted for quilting box panels. Linens like towels, napkins and tablecloths can also be embellished with vintage motifs, specific scenes, and lace patterns. Holiday inspired cards are used to personalize or customize items for gifts.