| FAQs’ for model CE-100 and CE-200
1.
Is there a more extensive manual for the Futura™?
2. I am not able
to install the drivers for my Futura.
3. How do I install AutoPunch, HyperFont,
PhotoStitch or Auto Cross-Stitch?
4. What needles should I use with my futura
?
5. What bobbins can I use in the futura
?
6. What do the “thread break”, “flashing
lights”, “beeping sound” or “88” error messages mean
?
7. What is the correct
start-up procedure when using the embroidery feature
of your futura machine ?
8. I have the Futura™ software open, but
I have no toolbar.
9. When trying to use my small hoop, I
get the following error message.
10. Can I change the settings on my screen
to read inches instead of centimeters?
11. Why am I not able to access any of
the tools on the toolbar?
12. The hoop is so hard to get under the
foot. Is there an easier way to do this ?
13. I can’t get my hoop to tighten up.
The screw won’t hold any more.
14. How do I
wind a bobbin when my embroidery unit is attached ?
15. What formats
will my futura software recognize ?
16. How do I
save a design that I have created or downloaded?
17. What does
the “Optimize for Speed” actually do to a design when
selected?
18. Can I change
the density of Built-In Lettering?
19. How do I
Use Advanced Spacing in the Text Part of the Futura?
20. How do I
create Monograms using built-in Fonts?
21. When using
my Futura™ software, will the density of a design be
adjusted when I resize my design?
22. Sometimes
when I resize a design it is not dense enough. What
am I doing wrong ?
23. When resizing
designs, it seems that recalculation of stitch density
depends on from where the design came. Is this true?
24. How do I
mirror image a design ?
25. How can I
make a template to position my design? When I print
the design, there is no hoop or other reference point.
26. My needle
thread broke. How do I back up to cover the broken stitch
area.
27. Is there
a way to view all the designs that I have on my hard
drive? I would like to have a preview of all design
no matter what the format.
28. When I click
on embroidery anthology, nothing happens.
29.Why does a
design sometimes split up into very small segments?
One color block can end up ‘divided’ into several blocks.
30. I downloaded
a design from the Internet, why will the design not
open?
31. How do I
unzip a design that I have downloaded?
32. When I’m
creating lettering, can I resize individual letters?
33. Is there
a way to increase the density of the keyboard lettering?
34. How do I
insert a stop between a design and lettering?
35. Can Part
of a Design Be Deleted?
36. I’m trying
to bring two designs into the same hoop at one time
and I don’t seem to be able to.
37. How do I
sew out 2 imported designs?
38. How do I
get to AutoPunch.
39. I don’t understand
all the steps when I’m using my AutoPunch feature. Is
there more information available that will explain the
choices?
40. Can I AutoPunch
TrueType Fonts?
41. Can AutoPunch
be used to digitize any picture, clipart or photo?
42. What does
Step- 4 Color Reduction actually do when AutoPunch-ing?
43. Why do some
of the designs that I digitized with autopunch turn
out better than others ?
44. Why do the
letters that I digitize in AutoPunch turn out poorly?
FAQs’ for model CE-150, CE-250 and CE-350
1.
Is there a more extensive manual for the Futura™?
2. I am not able
to install the drivers for my Futura.
3. How do I install AutoPunch, HyperFont,
PhotoStitch or Auto Cross-Stitch?
4. What needles should I use with my futura
?
5. What bobbins can I use in the futura
?
6. What do the “thread break”, “flashing
lights”, “beeping sound” or “88” error messages mean
?
7. What is the correct
start-up procedure when using the embroidery feature
of your futura machine ?
8. I have the Futura™ software open, but
I have no toolbar.
9. When trying to use my small hoop, I
get the following error message.
10. Can I change the settings on my screen
to read inches instead of centimeters?
11. Why am I not able to access any of
the tools on the toolbar?
12. The hoop is so hard to get under the
foot. Is there an easier way to do this ?
13. I can’t get my hoop to tighten up.
The screw won’t hold any more.
14. What Formats will My Futura recognize?
15. How do I
save a design that I have created or downloaded?
16. What does
the “Optimize for Speed” actually do to a design when
selected?
17. Can I change the density of built-in lettering?
18. How do I
Use Advanced Spacing in the Text Part of the Futura?
19. How do I
create Monograms using built-in Fonts?
20. When using
my Futura™ software, will the density of a design be
adjusted when I resize my design?
21. Sometimes
when I resize a design it is not dense enough. What
am I doing wrong ?
22. When resizing
designs, it seems that recalculation of stitch density
depends on from where the design came. Is this true?
23. How do I mirror a design in my CE-150/250//350?
24. How can I
make a template to position my design? When I print
the design, there is no hoop or other reference point.
25. My needle
thread broke. How do I back up to cover the broken stitch
area.
26. Is there
a way to view all the designs that I have on my hard
drive? I would like to have a preview of all design
no matter what the format.
27. I downloaded
a design from the Internet, why will the design not
open?
28. How do I
unzip a design that I have downloaded?
29. When I’m
creating lettering, can I resize individual letters?
30. How do I
insert a stop between a design and lettering?
31. Can part of a design be deleted?
32. I'm trying to bring 2 designs into the same hoop at one time and I don't seem to be able to.
33. How do I
sew out 2 imported designs?
34. How do I
get to AutoPunch.
35. I don’t understand
all the steps when I’m using my AutoPunch feature. Is
there more information available that will explain the
choices?
36. Can I AutoPunch
TrueType Fonts?
37. Can AutoPunch
be used to digitize any picture, clipart or photo?
38. What does
Step- 4 Color Reduction actually do when AutoPunch-ing?
39. Why do some
of the designs that I digitized with autopunch turn
out better than others ?
40. Why do the
letters that I digitize in AutoPunch turn out poorly?
41. Is there a way to sew all the same colors at one time after I have pasted in several patterns?
42. Can I change the fill type of any imported design when using Advanced Editing?
1.
Is there a more extensive manual for the Futura™?
Yes. With the basic Futura™
CD in the D drive, open up Windows Explore, by right
clicking on the START button on the bottom tool bar.
Left click on the drive and the contents of the CD will
appear on the right side of the screen. Among the folders
listed will be the Manual. Double left click on the
icon. The manual is 92 pages and explains in detail
all of the programs functions.
2.
I am not able to install the drivers for my Futura.
To install the CLEM driver you
will need to right click on My Computer. MAKE SURE THAT
YOU HAVE THE BASE FUTURA CD IN THE TRAY when starting
this process.
Then left click on Properties.
From the Properties Dialog box select Hardware > Device
Manager
In the Device Manager will be
a list of devices on your computer. You will need to
look for JUNGO. There should be a yellow question mark
near this.
Double left click on the question
mark and it should open up the Add New Hardware Wizard
or Update Drivers. Just follow the prompts and answer
the questions. It will probably ask if you want to reinstall
the Drivers. Click yes.
3.
How do I install AutoPunch, HyperFont, PhotoStitch or
Auto Cross-Stitch?
There are now several versions
of the basic Futura software and AutoPunch available
on the market. The most current is version 1.0.0.2.
To determine what version of either software you have,
you will find this information around the inside rim
of the CD at approximately 4 o'clock. Before loading
any of the Options into your computer, check the version
and then follow the steps below. The following steps
will update your software so that you will now have
the latest 1.0.0.2 version of the basic program and
all options.
To load base software
1.0.0.0 with AutoPunch 1.0.0.0 or base software 1.0.0.1
with Autopunch 1.0.0.1
- You must use bobbin part number 085128. This bobbin
is specifically designed for the Futura CE-100 and
CE-200.
- Load Base software (have machine set-up for embroidery
with USB connected to both machine and computer –
machine turned OFF)
- Turn on Futura machine and double left click on
Futura icon to open program
- Close program and turn off the machine
- Install Autopunch and leave the CD in the tray
- Download appropriate update for Windows Version
from the Futura-Support.com updates and save to desktop
- Double left click on the desktop download icon to
install update
- Turn on Futura machine and double left click on
Futura icon to open program
- Type in the Access code from Autopunch jewel case
and then left click on the check mark to open program
To load base software
1.0.0.0 with AutoPunch 1.0.0.1 or base software 1.0.0.1
with Autopunch 1.0.0.0
- Load Base software (have machine set-up for embroidery
with USB connected to both machine and computer -
machine turned OFF)
- Turn on Futura machine and double left click on
Futura icon to open program
- Close program and turn off the machine
- Install Autopunch and leave the CD in the tray
- Download appropriate update for Windows Version
from the Futura-Support.com updates and save to desktop
- Double left click on the desktop download icon to
install update
- Turn on Futura machine and double left click on
Futura icon to open program
- Type in the Access code from Autopunch jewel case
and then left click on the check mark to open program
To load base software
1.0.0.0 or 1.0.0.1 with Autopunch 1.0.0.2
- Load Base software (have machine set-up for embroidery
with USB connected to both machine and computer- machine
turned OFF)
- Turn on Futura machine and double left click on
Futura icon to open program
- Close software and turn off machine
- Download appropriate update for Windows Version
from the Futura-Support.com updates and save to desktop
- Double left click on the desktop download icon
to install update
- Install Autopunch using Installation Wizard – leave
CD in tray
- Turn on Futura machine and double left click to
open program
- Type in Access Code from Autopunch jewel case and
then left click on check mark to open program
To load base software
1.0.0.2 with Autopunch 1.0.0.0 or 1.0.0.1
- Load Base software (have machine set-up for embroidery
with USB connected to both machine and computer- machine
turned OFF)
- Turn on Futura machine and double left click on
Futura icon to open program
- Close program and turn off machine
- Place Autopunch CD in tray but CANCEL Installation
Wizard
- Download appropriate update for Windows Version
from the Futura-Support.com updates and save to desktop
- Double left click on the desktop download icon
to install update
- Turn on Futura Machine and double left click to
open the program
- Type in Access Code from Autopunch jewel case and
then left click on check mark to open program
To load base software
1.0.0.1 with Autopunch 1.0.0.1 with Hyperfont 1.0.0.2
or Photo Stitch 1.0.0.2
- Load Base software (have the machine set-up for
embroidery with USB connected to both machine and
computer – machine turned OFF)
- Turn on Futura machine and double left click on
Futura icon to open program
- Close program and then turn off the machine
- Install the Autopunch program and leave the CD
in the tray
- Turn on Futura machine and double left click on
Futura icon to open program
- Type in the Access code from Autopunch jewel case
and then left click on the check mark to open program*
- Close program and then turn off the machine
- Download appropriate update for Windows version
from the Futura-Support.com updates and save to desktop
- Double left click on the desktop icon to install
update
- Turn on Futura machine and double left click on
Futura icon to open program
- Close program and then turn off the machine
- Install HyperFont program – leave CD in tray
- Turn on Futura machine and double left click to
open program
- Type in Access Code from HyperFont jewel case and
then left click on check mark to open program*
- Close program and then turn off the machine
- Install PhotoStitch program – leave CD in tray
- Turn on Futura machine and double left click to
open program
- Type in Access Code from PhotoStitch jewel case
and then left click on check mark to open program*
* Must open the program
after installing each Option with CD in tray and type
in Access Code before installing next Option.
To load base software
1.0.0.2 and adding all Options - Hyperfont 1.0.0.2,
PhotoStitch 1.0.0.2, Autopunch 1.0.0.2 and Cross Stitch
1.0.0.1
- Install Base software (have machine set-up for embroidery
with USB connected to both the machine and computer-
machine turned OFF)
- Turn on Futura machine and double left click on
Futura icon to open program
- Close program and then turn off machine
- Install Autopunch program and leave the CD in the
tray
- Turn on Futura machine and double left click on
Futura icon to open program
- Type in Access Code from AutoPunch jewel case and
then left click on check mark*
- Close program and turn off machine
- Install Hyperfont program and leave the CD in the
tray
- Turn on Futura machine and double left click on
Futura icon to open program
- Type in Access Code from HyperFont jewel case and
then click on check mark*
- Close Program and turn off machine
- Install Photo Stitch program and leave the CD in
the tray
- Turn on Futura machine and double left click on
Futura icon to open program
- Type in Access Code from PhotoStitch jewel case
and then left click on check mark*
- Close program and turn off machine.
- Install Auto Cross Stitch program and leave CD
in tray
- Download appropriate update for Windows version
from the Futura-Support.com updates (Fut_sp2_Options.exe)
and save to desktop
- Double left click on the desktop download icon
to install
- Turn on Futura machine and double left click on
Futura icon to open program
- Type in Access Code from Auto Cross Stitch jewel
case and then left click on check mark*
* Must open the program
after installing each Option with CD in tray and type
in Access Code before installing next Option.
4.
What needles should I use with my futura ?
- You can use a variety of needles, but we recommend
needle type CHROMIUM 2000 or 2001.
- These Chromium needles are designed to stand up
to hours of embroidery. They also result in better
quality embroidery.
- Style 2000 is for woven fabrics like cotton, linen
and silk. Style 2001 is for knits, stretch and other
man-made fabrics.
- Chromium needles are available in sizes 11 and 14.
- You may also use type 2020 for woven fabric or type
2045 for knits. Use size 11 or 14 for embroidery.
5.
What bobbins can I use in the futura ?
- You must use bobbin part number 085128. This bobbin
is specifically designed for the Futura CE-100 and
CE-200.
- Do not use standard class 15 bobbins.
- Do not use metal bobbins.
- Pre-wound bobbins are not recommended, as they cause
tension problems and will result in poor quality embroidery.
6.
What do the “thread break”, “flashing lights”, “beeping
sound” or “88” error messages mean ?
All of the above signify that
the upper tension path is not threaded correctly. Check
that the transparent thread path located at the top
of the machine is threaded correctly.
Hold thread in both hands and
slip under transparent thread guide. While holding the
thread securely, pull the thread towards you and then
slip it back and forth like you were flossing. You should
hear or feel two clicks as the thread slips past the
thread guides.
7.
What is the correct start-up procedure when using the
embroidery feature of your futura machine ?
The following steps must be
followed for proper start-up protocol. If these steps
are not followed precisely, you will get a “Transmission
Pending” error message.
Boot up your computer, but do
not open the Futura software. Next attach the embroidery
unit to your sewing machine and connect the USB cable
between your computer and sewing machine
- Turn on your sewing machine by
setting the Power/Light switch to ( l ). Make sure
the needle has been moved to the highest position
by turning the Handwheel towards you.
- Attach the hoop that you plan to
work with to your embroidery unit.
- Double click on the Futura Icon
on your desktop, to open up the Futura Software.
- You are now ready to select and
transmit a design to your machine
IMPORTANT: If you have embroidered
using the small hoop, and you are now ready to use your
large hoop. Turn off your machine, close the Futura
software and then turn OFF your computer. Wait one minute,
turn on your computer and then follow steps 1 through
4.
8.
I have the Futura™ software open, but I have no toolbar.
Uninstall the Futura™ software
and then re-install.
9.
When trying to use my small hoop, I get the following
error message.
FUTURA machines report
the hoop attached to the computer only one time - when
the FUTURA program is started. If there is no hoop attached,
the program will assume that the large hoop is mounted.
So, if a user decides to use a different hoop than the
one the machine has detected, it is necessary to change
the program's setting before embroidering (see below
procedure, Step 4).
However, there is a correct
procedure/sequence to set up the FUTURA machines for
embroidery. Preparing to embroider out of sequence will
cause the computer to display the above Error Message
if the small hoop is used:
The proper way to set up for
embroidery on the FUTURA machines is as follows:
- Turn the
FUTURA machine on, without the hoop attached.
- Attach the hoop that you intend
to use.
- Now open the FUTURA program.
The system detects which hoop is on the machine.
- If the Large Hoop is on the FUTURA,
but it is desired to change to the Small Hoop, remove
the Large Hoop and replace with Small Hoop. However,
before selecting a design, it is necessary to go to
the Main Menu and select Tools>Select Hoop, then choose
Small Hoop. (The same is true for moving from Small
Hoop to Large Hoop, once the program has been opened).
However, changing back and forth between hoop sizes
can cause FUTURA to get 'confused'. It is recommended
to use the procedure described in Steps 1 through
3.
Note:
If the FUTURA machine is turned on with the small hoop
already attached, the Start Button on the sewing machine
will flash red. It will not be possible to proceed unless
the machine is turned off, the hoop removed, and then
the above steps followed in correct sequence.
10.
Can I change the settings on my screen to read inches
instead of centimeters?
Click on "Tools" on your toolbar.
Click on "System Parameters"
Under Unit System you have the
option to select the Metric or English system.
11.
Why am I not able to access any of the tools on the
toolbar?
This will usually result when
you are in the Text portion of your software. Simply
left click on the "T" to return to the main program
and all of the tools should now be accessible.
Once you turn off the Text you
should be able to access your Tools under Design.
12.
The hoop is so hard to get under the foot. Is there
an easier way to do this ?
Raise the presser foot and the
needle. Place the hoop behind the foot and bring it
forward. This will tilt the foot up and allow the hoop
to slide more easily into position. Hold the hoop securely
in position and tighten hoop-mounting screws with a
screwdriver.
13.
I can’t get my hoop to tighten up. The screw won’t hold
any more.
On page seventy of the Futura™
manual it does show to tighten the screw with a screwdriver,
but this not advisable. Usually just tightening the
screw by hand is tight enough to hold the fabric in
the frame. Repeated over tightening of the screw will
eventually cause damage by either stripping the screw
or cracking the hoop.
14.
How do I wind a bobbin when my embroidery unit is attached
?
- In order to wind a bobbin you must transmit a design
to the machine, as well as send a block to your sewing
machine.
- If no design has been transmitted and no block of
color sent, the bobbin winder will not work.
- Replace the embroidery thread on your spool pin
with bobbinfil thread, wind the thread around the
thread guide located over the transparent threading
path on the top of your machine and then slip the
end of the thread through the opening in the bobbin
from the inside to the outside.
- Place the bobbin on the bobbin winder shaft and
push the shaft towards the right.
- Hold the thread end securely above the bobbin, and
then press the green operation switch on the front
panel of your machine to begin winding. (The foot
control is inoperable with the embroidery unit attached).
- Allow the bobbin to turn several (10 to 12) times
and then stop the machine by touching the red operation
switch on the front panel of your machine. Cut the
thread at the top of the bobbin as close to the bobbin
as possible. Continue to wind the bobbin.
- The bobbin will stop turning when it is full. Push
shaft to the left, clip the thread and remove the
bobbin from the shaft.
- Remove the hoop from the machine, (DO NOT REMOVE
YOUR FABRIC FROM THE HOOP), replace the empty bobbin
and then re-insert the hoop.
- If your design moved forward a stitch or two when
you picked up the bobbin thread, you can use the backstitch
operation switch on the front of your machine to move
back to your original position.
15.
What formats will my futura software recognize ?
- When downloading designs from websites, off a floppy
disk or CD, the Futura will recognize AND AUTOMATICALLY
CONVERT the following formats.
- FHE
- CHE
- XXX
- PSW
- PEC
- PES
- HUS
- SEW
- EXP
- DST
- PCS
|
 |
16.
How do I save a design that I have created or downloaded?
From the toolbar left click on file, and then from the drop-down menu select "Save Design As".
Next left click on the drop down menu arrow and choose the location where you want to save your design.
Create a new folder to hold any designs that you will be saving.
Right click on the "New Folder" and then select "Rename", then enter the name you wish to give this folder.
Under File name, type the name
of the file or design and select the format that the
design will be saved in (.FHE).
17.
What does the “Optimize for Speed” actually do to a
design when selected?
 |
When
a design is “Optimized,” the program cleans up the
extra stitches that occur naturally when an area
is filled with stitches. This reduces the stitch
count and crisps up the design, shortening the sewing
time. |
18.
Can I change the density of Built-In Lettering?
To add density to built-in lettering
use the following directions. This process will work
both with the built-in fonts and the ones created using
Hyperfont.
Create the lettering as usual.
Then save the letters in a format other than the .fhe
or .che file. Close the screen.
Re-open the new design:
When opening the saved file
please note the stitch count of this file. Next left
click on DESIGN > Change Size on the horizontal tool
bar. (You can add more then the 12% shown in this illustration.)
We find it easier to do this by percent. Left click
on the % box.
Size up the design. With the
Stitch Processor activated this will add more stitches
to the design. Then press OK.
The lettering will now have
12% more stitches.
Next left click on Design >
Change Size and size the lettering back to the original
size. But this time DESELECT the Stitch Processor by
left clicking on the box.
Left click on OK. The design
should retain the additional 12% of stitches, but be
back to the original lettering size.
19.
How do I Use Advanced Spacing in the Text Part of the
Futura?
Type in the desired text in
the lettering portion of your software. You can also
use this technique with the HyperFont lettering software.
Right click in a blank area
of the screen. Then, left click on ADVANCED SPACING.
There are 2 areas where you may want to add space, either
between lines or between letters. We will look at spacing
between lines first.
Type in the new value and then
press the Enter key on the keyboard and then click okay
to see the change. These values appear as metric. You
may need to experiment to achieve the desired spacing.
The illustration below used 150.00 then ENTER and okay
to move the lines apart.
Spacing between individual letters
is referred to as "Kerning". You will type in values
only between the letters that need to be moved apart.
In the above illustration you might want more space
between the "n" and "g" in Singer and also in Sewing.
Only the first letter combination
has been adjusted to .10 so that you may compare the
difference with the kerning adjustment. You can see
how the spacing is more pleasing.
Once you have edited in the
desired spacing. Left click on OK and then apply the
stitches.
20.
How do I create Monograms using built-in Fonts?
Whether using HyperFont or your
choice of the two built-in fonts, you can create a monogram
in the Futura software. This can be either 2 or 3 letters.
Apply the stitches. Next de-select the Text tool to
return to the main screen. Now add your grid lines by
left clicking on VIEW on the horizontal tool bar and
select Show Grid:
In the TOOLS menu on the horizontal
tool bar, you can set the grid size. (we suggest ½"
or ¼")
Left click on the individual
letters to highlight and resize them independently.
You can also move and position each letter as desired
by left clicking in the center of the box around the
letter.
Don't forget that you can italicize
the letters too, for another style.
Pull the diamond at the bottom left corner toward the left to italicize the letters to the desired slant.
Apply the stitches, left click
on the "T" to return to the main program so you can
edit the letters into the desired shape for the monogram.
Don't forget to use the grid lines to aid in placing
the letters.
Left click on individual letters
to highlight them, then move and position them into
desired shape of monogram as previously described.
21.
When using my Futura™ software, will the density of
a design be adjusted when I resize my design?
 |
When
sizing designs in the Futura™ software you can resize
designs from the Library in the hoop on screen and
keep the design integrity. All other formats should
be changed in the DESIGN/CHANGE SIZE menu in order
to change the stitch count. |
22.
Sometimes when I resize a design it is not dense enough.
What am I doing wrong ?
The Futura™
software will recalculate the stitch of an imported
design when sizing, but only when using the DESIGN>CHANGE
SIZE option. It does have a limitation of re-sizing
up to 149% and down sizing to 51% and while still being
able to re-calculate the stitches correctly.
If these parameters are exceeded
the stitch processor is not accurate.
It is possible to use the stitch
processor option, found in the Change Size Pop-Up screen
to correct the density of an imported design. If the
design isn’t dense enough, deselect the stitch processor
and size the design down 2-3%. The opposite would be
true of a design that was too dense. Simply size it
up 2-3% with the processor turned off.
23.
When resizing designs, it seems that recalculation of
stitch density depends on from where the design came.
Is this true?
When importing a design from
an outside source, the designs can be resized using
the Change Size dialog box. To change the design proportionately,
first click a ‘check’ in the box above the Padlock icon.
This will convert the dimensions from working in actual
measurements, to working in percentages. Simply type
in the amount of change in either the X or Y dimension
box. Click OK, and the design will change size and will
recalculate the density. When clicking and dragging
around an imported design to change size, it is possible
to change size proportionately by clicking and dragging
either the upper left or lower right corner. However,
even though the design has changed size, it does not
(using this method of resizing) recalculate the density.When
using designs from the Futura™ Library, it is possible
to resize in either method above, and the design density
will recalculate.
24.
How do I mirror image a design ?
- Select your design, but do not apply the stitches.
- Activate the number lock on your keyboard.
- For laptop computers, touch the J key while holding
down the function key; it should have a number 1 on
it. This will flip the design.
- For desktop computers, hold down the control key
and touch the number 1 on the numeric keypad on the
right side of your keyboard. This will flip the design.
- Right click and then click on apply stitches.
- De-activate the number lock on your computer.
- Go to your toolbar and select “Design”.
- Click on “Change Size”.
- Click on rotate sign on the left. (Counterclockwise
rotation).
- Enter 180 in the white box and then click on OK.
25.
How can I make a template to position my design? When
I print the design, there is no hoop or other reference
point.
Pull up the design and center
in the hoop on screen. Left click on the lettering tool.
In the text box type a period. Insert a color change
by left clicking on the color box on the horizontal
tool bar; choose another color from the palette. Now
move the text box off the design toward the top of the
hoop. Left click on “Stitch It.”
 |
Now return
to the main screen (deselect lettering by left clicking
on it). Select the period to move and position the
period just inside the sewing field aligning it
with the “0” on the top ruler. |
 |
Insert a color
stop by left clicking on the color box on the top
tool bar and selecting another color. Now go back
into the lettering portion of the program and repeat
the above steps, but this time place the period
at the side of the hoop on the “0” on the ruler.
When you have placed periods on all four sides,
print the design. The periods will show on the printout.
You can now use this to make a template for placement.
Select the Show Grid option from the View menu on
the horizontal tool bar for ease in placement of
periods. (The Grid will not print.) |
26.
My needle thread broke. How do I back up to cover the
broken stitch area.
On the front of the machine,
just above the Start button (red/green light) is the
Return Arrow button. In embroidery mode, this will back
up stitches while depressed. The Needle Down button
(sewing mode) will forward a stitch at a time when depressed.
27.
Is there a way to view all the designs that I have on
my hard drive? I would like to have a preview of all
design no matter what the format.
 |
Use
the DESIGN BROWSER located under FILE on the horizontal
tool bar. Not only can you view the design, but
also when you select it you can see the color blocks,
size and stitch count. |
28.
When I click on embroidery anthology, nothing happens.
The “Embroidery Anthology” selection
on the drop down menu under “File”, on your Futura toolbar,
is CURRENTLY UNAVAILABLE.
This selection has been included
with the intention of making additional embroidery designs
available in the future.
As soon as information is available
on this feature, a notice will appear on this website.
29.Why
does a design sometimes split up into very small segments?
One color block can end up ‘divided’ into several blocks.
The machine has a certain limit
of stitches that it can accept. So what most probably
happens is that these are big blocks that after exceeding
the limit are cut, leaving a certain number of stitches
(could possibly be only a few) as a separate block.
30.
I downloaded a design from the Internet, why will the
design not open?
The file may not have been unzipped.
If you do not have a unzipping program, you can download
here
it for free.
31.
How do I unzip a design that I have downloaded?
Select the file to download:
Example shown uses one of the free designs from our
website www.singerco.com
Select the format that you want, PSW or XXX.
Then choose OPEN instead of SAVE:
This will open the design directly into the extraction program on your computer.
Your program may vary from the
one shown, but they all work similarly. Then choose
extract or unzip. Make sure to select "ALL FILES" and
then choose the destination. You can make a separate
folder for the design at this time if desired.
Make sure to note where you
are unzipping the design. Then when you open the embroidery
software you will go to OPEN and locate this folder
and be able to see and open the design.
This procedure is much easier
than choosing to Save the design and then trying to
locate the design, and find the extraction program.
32.
When I’m creating lettering, can I resize individual
letters?
 |
You
can resize individual letters after you have brought
them into the hoop and exited the text window. Left
click, drag a box around the desired letter, and
size accordingly. Because the letters are built-in,
the letter will keep the appropriate density. |
33.
Is there a way to increase the density of the keyboard
lettering?
The density is set to a standard
value of 4/10th of mm, which is usually the standard
density used for Lettering. The value is not editable.
34.
How do I insert a stop between a design and lettering?
 |
To
insert a stop, just left click on the color block
on the Horizontal tool bar before adding the lettering. |
35.
Can Part of a Design Be Deleted?
Yes, left click and drag a box around the desired area to select it. This will highlight the section.
You can hold down the CONTROL key and repeat to select additional blocks.
Then press the DELETE key on your computer keyboard and the highlighted areas will delete.
36.
I’m trying to bring two designs into the same hoop at
one time and I don’t seem to be able to.
 |
You
cannot import more than one design into the hoop
unless it is from the built-in Library designs.
It is possible to add a Library design or Lettering
to a pre-digitized design during layout. |
37.
How do I sew out 2 imported designs?
Open design 1(A). Under "Tools"
set the grid size to ½" and then in the "View" menu,
select "Show/Hide Grid". On the top tool bar click on
Open design 2 (B). Under "Tools" set the grid size to
½", and then in the "View" menu, select "Show/Hide Grid"
to place grid on screen. On the top tool bar click on
Then on the top tool bar under Windows select the "Tile"
option.
You can then adjust and move
the design into perfect position, going back and forth
between Windows. Right click on the screen and then
"Select Design to Move."
Left click on the design and
move to desired position. Then right click and select
"Apply".
You will now be able to embroider
multiple designs in a single hoop without repositioning
the hoop.
To see the design full screen,
left click on the left side of the top tool bar on the
Minimize/Optimize button.
38.
How do I get to AutoPunch.
Open Futura™ software. Go to
create and click on AutoPunch on the drop down menu.
39.
I don’t understand all the steps when I’m using my AutoPunch
feature. Is there more information available that will
explain the choices?
Yes. There is a very informative
10-page manual located on the AutoPunch CD. To access
the manual return the CD to the drive and go into Window
Explore and find the AutoPunch CD. You will find a file
named “Manual,” just double left click on the icon and
it will open the .PDF file.
40.
Can I AutoPunch TrueType Fonts?
AutoPunch is not suitable for
digitizing TrueType Fonts. There is however an optional
program that you may purchase called "HyperFont". This
software is designed specifically to digitize the TrueType
fonts that are available on your computer.
41.
Can AutoPunch be used to digitize any picture, clipart
or photo?
 |
While
the software will read various formats, not all
images are suitable for AutoPunch. AutoPunch digitizes
by color change. Clear, simple images will give
the best results. AutoPunch is not suitable for
use with photos. (There will be a PhotoStitch option
for release at a later date.) |
42.
What does Step- 4 Color Reduction actually do when AutoPunch-ing?
 |
Color
Reduction cleans up and simplifies an image by reducing
the number of colors in an image. You can either
allow the program to decide the colors or manually
select the colors. |
43.
Why do some of the designs that I digitized with autopunch
turn out better than others ?
Notice when you choose the image
that there are many different formats. Autopunch gives
the best result when using vector type images, such
as .wmf. The software must be able to recognize a color
(block) of information. A “. bmp” can be made of millions
of colors making it impractical for use.
Clipart falls into two basic categories,
Vector Art and Bitmapped Art.
The software is capable of vectorizing
the “.bmp” image, but it may loose detail, depending
on the image. It is essential to understand about the
type of artwork or image used with AutoPunch.
Vector Art is a clean
“graphic” blocks of color – by simple definition. Some
common formats - .wmf and .emf are two formats that
the Auto Punch software can read
Bitmapped Art is
the type of “format” that is typically saved when scanning.
The computer sees millions of colors to create the “realistic”
type of image. Even a 3-color design that we see as
simple has billions of pixels. Common formats recognized
by the software: .bmp, .jpg, .tif, .pcx, .pcd, .tga,
and .psd.
Tips for Auto Punch:
- Scan art with a “high resolution” (200-300 DPI).
- Scan at 3-6 times larger than the intended output.
- Lines that are too narrow to properly sew out are
eliminated by the software when it cleans up the artwork.
44.
Why do the letters that I digitize in AutoPunch turn
out poorly?
AutoPunch will read imported
clipart files. It will not in most instances do an adequate
job of digitizing lettering created in Word. If you
save it in a high resolution and size up the design
before you try to digitize it you can have better results.
The most successful results will be obtained when you
use our software called "HyperFont" to digitize letters.
Step 1)
In the Wizard you definitely
need to look at the design during the color reduction
step.
Step 2) Reduce the colors in
the image.
Step 3) These are the results
after reducing the colors down from 5 to 2.
Here is the finished product.
45.
Is there a way to sew all the same colors at one time after I have pasted in several patterns?
With the CE-150/250/350 you can sort the color blocks together in the Object List. Left click on the color block you wish to move and then right click. In the Pop-Up menu you can type-in the new location number.
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Select Reorder in the Pop-Up menu. Then left click on “To Position”. Type in the new sewing order.
Repeat until you have grouped all the same colors together.
Another method is to simply drag to the desired sewing order. |
Click and Drag Method.
Left click on the block you want to move. Then simply hold in the left mouse button and drag to the new location.
You also can select multiple blocks and move them at the same time. Left click on the first block then hold in the Control Key and left click on the next block, repeat as necessary. Then left click on the group and hold in the left mouse button while dragging to the new location.
46. Can I change the fill type of any imported design when using Advanced Editing?
When working with an imported file type you will need to Convert Stitches to Block in order to change the Embroidery Settings.
Left click on the Edit Outline tool on the top tool bar and select the desired block. Now right click to bring up the Pop-Up menu.
 |
In the Pop-Up menu select Embroidery Settings. You can now change the Settings – density, stitch direction, underlay etc. Or select the Stitch Type tab and change the fill pattern. Remember to use the scroll button to see all the choices of pattern. If you select the Pattern Step –click on the Catalog button to see these fancy fills. After each change has been selected it will be necessary to click on the Apply button before moving on to select another change. |
In the Settings Tab you can use Manual Setting and change the density, stitch angle, apply underlay, add outlines and change the color of the outline of the block to be different from the highlighted block. Remember to left click on Apply after each modification or the change will not be applied. Or you can choose to use PreSet and choose the fabric type you are going to sew out the design on and the software will select the proper parameters for you. |
 |
47.
What Formats Will My Futura recognize?
The CE-150, CE-250 and CE-350 will read the following formats:
FHE, CHE, PSW, XXX, DST, EXP, PEC, PES, PCS, HUS, VIP, SHV, SEW, and JEF
This information is located in the OPEN DESIGN dialog box under the File Type drop down menu.
48.
Can I change the density of built-in lettering?
In the CE-150/250/350 you can adjust the letter density while you are still in wire-frames. On the top tool bar you will select the Embroidery Properties icon.
In the Pop-Up menu you can select the density and type in a new value. Lower numbers will make the stitches denser or closer together. Higher numbers will make the letter less dense.
In the Properties box you can add Fill Underlay and Edgewalk Underlay.
The software has the option of adding a Running Stitch or Satin Stitch outline to letters. The density of the Satin Stitch outline can be adjusted by typing in a different value in the field. A left click on the RGB button will open a palette where the color of the outline can be changed to create a two color design.
49.
How Do I Mirror A Design in My CE-150/250/350?
You can mirror a design in all three programs. After you have the pattern on screen, right click, then left click on “Select Design To Move”. This will highlight the pattern. Now right click again and you will now be able to left click on “Flip” this will open a side bar that gives you the option to flip or mirror, vertical or horizontal.
50.
Can part of a design be deleted?
The CE-150/250/350 software has the ability delete a complete color block or just a part of a design.
To delete a color completely:
In the Object List left click to highlight the color block to be deleted.
After selecting the block, move the mouse back into the canvas area and right click. In the Pop-Up menu left click on delete.
To delete only a block not the entire color using Advanced Editing see steps below:
If you are using an imported file you will first need to Convert Stitches to Block.
 |
Left click on Design –
Then left click on Convert Stitches to Block in the drop down menu. |
After Converting to Block you will be able to left click on one of the orange tulips. Because its now in block it will be necessary to hold down the Control key on the keyboard and then continue to left click on all the desired blocks in the tulip to select the pattern. Right click and then left click on delete.
51. I'm trying to bring two designs into the same hoop at one time and I don’t seem to be able to.
With the Futura CE-150/250/350 you can merge imported designs by opening the second design through the File > Paste Design menu
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Using this feature will open any additional patterns into the previously opened canvas. |
Open the first design as usual. File > Open or use the tool bar shortcut icon. Then when opening the next pattern left click on File > Paste Design. This function can be repeated as many times as desired.
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