In this video, we show how to verify that a called-up design will fit within the selected hoop before sewing. This step helps catch problems such as loading the wrong design or choosing the wrong hoop for the job. After the design has already been called in and the hoop has been centered, we press the sub-work button and cursor down to either design trace or optimized trace.
We first demonstrate design trace by selecting number two and pressing the set button. The display indicates that we should watch needle number one and press the start button, allowing us to observe the needle's relationship to the hoop. We then compare that to optimized trace, which is more accurate because it calculates the actual perimeter X and Y coordinates of the design rather than forming a simple square box. After selecting optimized trace and allowing the machine to calculate, we return to the trace function, press the end button, and then start the trace while again watching needle number one.
We also show how optimized trace can help when aligning a design to a specific area on a garment, such as above a pocket. If the raised presser foot makes it difficult to judge placement, we can push down on the thread guide until it clicks to lock the presser foot down, but only after we have already confirmed that the design fits. When we run optimized trace again, it appears instantly because the machine does not need to recalculate the points, and we can clearly see the design's relationship to the garment area.
Once the fit has been confirmed, we exit the trace feature by pressing the previous button and raise the presser foot by selecting a different needle number. We then fix the thread, place it back into the holding spring, go into work information, check the speed setting, and start the machine when ready.
To make design tracing and fit checks easier, compare your setup with the right hoops and hoopers.