Bernina 440QE owner's manual: 58 Trouble shooting

58 Trouble shooting

Trouble shooting

In most cases you will be able to identify and remedy faults by checking the following.

Check whether:

• the upper and lower threads are threaded correctly
• the needle is inserted correctly with the flat side to the back
• the needle size is correct – check the needle/thread table on p. 18
• the needle tip and shaft are undamaged
• the sewing computer is clean – brush out any thread lint
• the hook race is clean
• any threads are trapped between the tension discs or under the bobbin case spring

\begin{tabular}{p{0.22\textwidth} p{0.33\textwidth} p{0.40\textwidth}} \textbf{Fault} & \textbf{Cause} & \textbf{Repair} \ Uneven stitch formation & Upper thread too tight/too slack \newline Lower thread too tight/too slack \newline Poor quality needle \newline Needle inserted incorrectly \newline Poor quality thread \newline Needle/thread combination is incorrect \newline Incorrectly threaded & Reduce/increase upper thread tension \newline Reduce/increase lower thread tension \newline Use a needle with flat side of the shank to the back \newline The flat side of the shank must be to the back \newline Use quality threads (Isacord, Mettler, Gütermann) \newline Match the needle to the thread size \newline Check upper thread threading path/lower thread threading path \ Skipped stitches & Incorrect needle system \newline Needle bent or blunt \newline Poor quality needle \newline Needle inserted incorrectly \newline Incorrect needle point & Use needle system 130/705 H \newline Use good quality needles \newline Use new, good quality needles (BERNINA). \newline Insert needle as far as it will go \newline Match the needle type to the fabric \ Upper thread breaks & Upper thread tension too tight \newline Incorrectly threaded \newline Poor quality or old thread \newline Stitch plate or hook tip damaged & Reduce upper thread tension \newline Check upper thread threading path \newline Use good quality thread \newline Have the sewing-/embroidery computer checked by a dealer \ Lower thread breaks & Lower thread tension too tight \newline Stitch hole in the stitch plate has been damaged \newline Needle blunt or bent & Reduce lower thread tension \newline Have the sewing-/embroidery computer checked by a dealer \newline Use a new needle \ Needle breaks & Needle not correctly inserted \newline Fabric was pulled \newline Fabric was pulled when thick material used \newline Poor quality thread, unevenly wound or knotted & Tighten the needle clamp screw \newline Do not pull the fabric during sewing \newline Use the correct presser foot for thick material (e.g. Jeans foot No. 8) \newline Use height compensating tool when sewing over a thick seam \newline Use quality thread \ Sewing computer fails to run or runs slowly & Plug not properly inserted \newline Sewing computer is not running at room temperature \newline Sewing computer is not switched on & Insert plug properly \newline Use sewing computer at room temperature \newline Switch sewing computer on (to «I») \ Embroidery process is interrupted or can not be started & e.g. upper thread broken, feed-dog not lowered etc. \newline Embroidery software or EC on PC can not be installed & Follow the animated recommendations in the display \newline Ask your BERNINA dealer \ Thread is caught in the area of the take-up lever & Upper thread breaks & If the lower thread breaks and the thread is trapped in the area of the take-up lever, proceed as follows: \newline * power switch to «0» (off) \newline * remove the screw on the head frame with the angular Torx key \newline * pull head frame to the left \newline * remove remnants of thread \newline * attach head frame and tighten screw \ \end{tabular}

Embroidery

Details of the embroidery module

1. Embroidery surface
2. Embroidery arm
3. Embroidery hoop connection
4. Accessory box
5. Connecting lug right
6. Connecting lug center

Front view

7. Sewing computer connecting cable
8. Cable holder

Back view

The side view (handwheel) of the sewing and embroidery computer with the cable connections are shown on page 9 of the sewing computer instruction manual.

60 Standard accessories

Standard accessories

Large oval embroidery hoop (145x255mm) Template for embroidery hoop

Embroidery presser foot No. 26

Embroidery needle range

Net for upper thread spools – pull over upper thread spool for even spooling

Embroidery software BERNINA / mouse pad

USB connecting cable for PC embroidery software

Carrying bag

Optional accessories 61

Optional accessories

Small embroidery hoop (72x50mm) (for normal use and free arm embroide- ry). Blue template for normal use Red template for free arm embroidery

Medium embroidery hoop (100x130mm) Template for medium embroidery hoop

Mega-Hoop (150x400mm) Template to Mega-Hoop

Adapter for free arm embroidery

Straight stitch plate 450

Straight stitch plate 430 / 440 QE

BERNINA Multiplespoolholder

BERNINA Embroidery software

Suitcase system for sewing computer and embroidery module

BERNINA embroidery cards / Mini Box plus or Magic Box plus

BERNINA border embroidery software

Refer to the Accessories catalogue for more information on sewing, embroidery and quilting accessories or www.bernina.com

62 Optional accessories

Connecting the adapter for free arm embroidery

The adapter is used for embroidering tubular items (sleeves, trousers, infant items, socks, etc.) on the free arm of the sewing computer.

Attaching the adapter to the sewing computer

• push the adapter behind the free arm towards the sewing computer so that the connecting lugs engage in the base plate of the sewing computer

Attaching the module to the adapter

• place the module on the adapter with the front edge of the module as close as possible to the L-shaped guide on the adapter
• push the module towards the guide from the left until the connecting lugs engage in the base plate of the adapter

Removing the adapter

• remove the module from the adapter
• the rear right corner of the adapter is designed to be used as a grip
• hold the adapter with this grip and remove from the base plate of the sewing computer

Free arm embroidery hoop

• the small, oval embroidery hoop is specially designed for free arm embroidery

Only the small hoop can be used for free arm embroidery.

Attaching the module

Attaching the module

• place the module on the sewing computer behind the free arm
• push the module from the left towards the sewing computer so that the connecting lugs engage in the base plate
• Unplug foot control

Releasing the cable

• the cable connects the module to the sewing computer
• pull the cable out of the holder on the back of the module

Connecting the cable

• plug with flat side to the front
• insert the plug into the socket on the right hand side of the sewing computer

Releasing the cable

• pull out the plug

Storing the cable on the module

• insert the cable into both cable holders
• press cable gently to secure

Removing the module

• grip the back right corner to lift the module and remove to the left

When connecting the embroidery module, attention must be paid that all items are on a flat and even surface!

Always separate the module and sewing computer for transportation. Never transport them attached.

64 Pre

Preparing for embroidery 65

Hooping the fabric

Centering

• determine the center of the fabric to be embroidered
• mark with a fabric marker or chalk

Using the embroidery hoop

• loosen the screw(s)
• remove the inner hoop
• the arrows on both hoops should match
• the arrows on the large, medium and Mega-Hoop are in the centre on the front, and the arrows on the small hoop on the right

Embroidery template

• there is a template for each embroidery hoop
• the embroidery surface is marked in 3/8" (1cm) squares
• the center and corners are marked with holes for transferring marks to fabric
• place the template in the inner hoop so that the word BERNINA is at the front (by the arrows) and can be read
• the template will engage automatically in the inner hoop
• there are finger holes for removing the template from the small and medium hoops, and special attachment clips for the large hoop template

Hooping the fabric

• place fabric on top of the outer hoop
• place the marked center point in the center of the template on inner hoop
• match the arrows of inner and outer hoops
• place inner hoop on top of fabric and outer hoop and press into place, loosening screws to accommodate fabric. Tighten screws
• remove template

Embroidery stabilizers

Tear-away stabilizers

• similar to interfacing; tears like paper
• one or more layers can be used
• available in different weights
• for more stability, apply to the wrong side of the fabric with temporary spray adhesive before hooping
• carefully tear away excess stabilizer from the back of the embroidery after stitching
• stabilizer will remain under larger embroidered areas

Application:

• for all wovens and non-stretchables

Iron-on interfacing

• must be preshrunk by soaking in warm water
• this is pressed (fused) to the wrong side of the fabric
• iron-on interfacings are available in a variety of weights and should be selected to suit the fabric being used
• removable iron-on interfacing is also available

Application:

• to provide body and shape for fabrics onto which motifs will be placed
• use in conjunction with appropriate stabilizer

When using paper backed adhesive stabilizer make sure that there is no adhesive residue on needle, stitch plate and hook area.

Cut-away stabilizers

• one or more layers can be used
• available in light- and heavyweight
• for more stability, apply to the wrong side of the fabric with temporary spray adhesive before hooping
• carefully cut away from the back of the embroidery after stitching
• stabilizer will remain under larger embroidered areas

Application:

• for all stretchable fabrics

Paper backed adhesive stabilizer

• place stabilizer in hoop, paper side up
• use a pointed object (e.g. scissors) to score the paper and remove it to reveal the self-adhesive surface
• position the piece of fabric to be embroidered on the stabilizer

Application:

• intended for delicate fabrics such as jersey or silk, or hard to hoop fabrics such as velvets
• for pieces, sections and materials that can not be hooped

Spray adhesive

• do not use spray adhesive near or directly at embroidery computer
• use spray to stick stabilizer to wrong side of fabric for more stability
• sparingly use spray adhesive and spray form a distance of 25-30cm to stabilizer
• place fabric and sprayed stabilizer flat on each other and press together

Application:

• on stretchable fabrics and knits to prevent distortion
• appliqué: exact securing of appliqués for embroidery
• smooth fabrics: to prevent shifting
• cutwork: to fix cut-out pieces on stabilizers, e. g. pockets on trousers, collars etc.
• for fabrics that easily crush or otherwise be marked by hooping: use spray adhesive on the stabilizer, hoop the stabilizer, then fix the sections to be embroidered onto the stabilizer

Spray starch for additional stiffening

• spray starch is ideal for stiffening fine, soft or loosely woven fabrics
• spray the area to be embroidered, let dry or press gently with a warm iron
• always use an additional stabilizer such as water soluble stabilizer on the wrong side of the fabric

Application:

• ideal for fine, loosely woven fabrics, e.g. batiste, fine linen, etc.

Important embroidery information 67

Water soluble stabilizer for fabric with a pile and lace embroidery

• water soluble stabilizer looks like plastic wrap
• dissolve stabilizer in warm water when embroidery is complete
• water soluble stabilizers are ideal protection for fabrics with a thick or looped pile such as toweling. It also prevents the embroidery threads from sinking into the fabric or the fabric threads from poking out between the stitching
• place on top of toweling and high nap fabrics backed by appropriate stabilizer for fabric and motif
• use spray adhesive to fix stabilizer if necessary
• for fabric with a pile, reinforce with additional, suitable stabilizer on the wrong side if necessary
• for lace embroidery place one or two layers of water soluble stabilizer in hoop (as the motif is not embroidered on any fabric, only the thread embroidered motif is left)
• after dissolving lay the motif down flat and let dry
• water soluble stabilizer can also be removed by gently tearing it away when used as a topping on non-washable fabrics like velvet

Application:

• ideal for toweling, velvet, bouclé knits, etc.
• ideal for fine, sheer fabrics such as organdy, batiste, etc.
• recommended for use as a stabilizer with low stitch count motifs
• use heavier water soluble stabilizer to stitch lace motifs

I mportant embroidery information

Choosing an embroidery motif

• simple motifs with a low stitch count are suitable for embroidery on fine fabric
• large-scale, densely embroidered motifs (e.g. with multiple color and embroidery direction changes) are suitable for medium- and heavyweight fabrics

Embroidery test

• always stitch an embroidery test on a sample fabric. Adjust color, thread quality, needle, stitch density, tension, etc. to suit the motif if necessary
• for the test use the same fabric and stabilizer that you will use on the project

Scaling/Sizing motifs

• motifs can be scaled/sized with the BERNINA embroidery software on the PC
• extensive scaling up or down of motifs may lead to unsatisfactory results

68 Important embroidery information

Different stitch types

Underlay stitches

• underlay stitches are the foundation of a motif and are used to stabilize the base fabric and hold it in shape. They also prevent the covering stitches of the motif from sinking into the knit or the nap of the fabric

Satin stitch

• the needle moves left to right and viceversa. The result is a very dense, covering zig-zag stitching to fill the shape
• satin stitching fills are ideal for narrow and small shapes. Satin stitching is, however, not suitable for larger areas, since wide stitches are too loose and do not cover the fabric properly. In addition there is the danger that with too long stitches the threads could catch on something which would damage the embroidery

Step stitch

• a fill stitch with stitches of specified length sewn in rows used primarily to fill large areas quickly

Fancy-fill stitches

• to give areas a special effect
• stitches that create a motif with an area to be filled

Outline stitches

• usually straight or satin stitches
• used to define a specific area or areas
• examples are: straight stitch, double run, triple run, satin

Jump stitches

• long stitches that skip over fabric after one part of the motif finishes and the next begins
• before and after the jump stitch securing stitches are sewn
• jump stitches are trimmed before the next color starts to embroider

Important embroidery information 69

Embroidery threads

One of the most important elements in successful embroidery is the quality of the thread. We strongly recommend that you purchase thread from a reputable BERNINA dealer in order to avoid irregularities, thread breakage, etc. which so often occur with poor quality threads.

Embroidery is particularly effective if you use glossy rayon or polyester embroidery threads as upper threads. They are available in a wide range of colors for beautiful embroidery.

Polyester threads Polyester with a brilliant sheen is a hard wearing colorfast thread and has a high tensile strength. It is suitable for all types of embroidery, especially children's clothing and items which will be washed often or subject to much wear and tear.

When sewing with metallic threads, we recommend the use of the vertical spool pin and the supplementary thread guide (optional accessory).

Rayon threads Rayon is a soft viscose fiber with a brilliant sheen and suitable for fine, delicate embroidery, or items that will not receive excessive wear and tear.

It is recommended to use a 130/705H Metafil needle and to reduce the speed.

Metallic wrapped polyester thread Metallic thread is a light- to mediumweight thread suitable for special effects in embroidery.

Embroidery needle

• correct size thread must correspond with correct size needle
• replace needle regularly

Bobbin threads

Bobbin-Fil (special bobbin thread) Bobbin-Fil is an especially soft and light polyester thread suitable for bobbin thread. This special bobbin thread ensures a steady thread tension and an optimal intertwining of the upper and bobbin thread. The thread produces even stitching on both, the right and wrong side of the fabric.

Use white bobbin thread or match color with fabric.

Darning and embroidery thread Fine mercerized cotton thread suitable for embroidery (Mettler 60 weight suggested), which is embroidered on cotton fabric.

70 Requirements / Embroidery software

Requirements for embroidery operations

BERNINA applies the widely used USB technology to their Sewing/Embroidery systems. In order to avoid undesirable interaction between BERNINA's individual USB devices and other USB devices, BERNINA recommends taking the following precautions:

• Avoid turning the aurora Sewing/ Embroidery System or other USB devices on and off in short intervals.
• When using an embroidery software with dongle, do not unplug the dongle while the software is running!
• During the embroidery stitch out process, do not unplug the USB cable.
• Before turning off the aurora Sewing/ Embroidery System, always close the embroidery software and then unplug the USB cable.
• If you intend to use a USB HUB device or other USB devices, BERNINA recommends using the USB Standard of Version 2.
• BERNINA recommends closing all running computer programs while embroidering wiht the embroidery software / EC on PC programs.

System requirements of your PC

Minimum requirements Pentium 3 CPU, 800 MHz or higher Windows XP Prof. and Home Service Pack 2 256MB RAM, 2 USB ports, 500MB available space 8GB Hard Disk Memory, 16 Bit True Color Graphic Card

Recommended requirements Pentium 4 CPU, or higher Windows XP Prof. and Home Service Pack 2 Windows Vista 512 MB RAM or higher, 2 USB ports, 20GB Hard Disk Memory, 750MB available space, 32GB or higher True Color Graphic Card

The «aurora» embroidery system is operated by the BERNINA embroidery software PC embroidery software and directly on the personal computer by the EC on PC software.*

• the term PC basically applies to PC and laptop

When the aurora Sewing/ Embroidery System is in the embroidery mode, the foot control must be unplugged.

To avoid errors with embroidery via personal computer no virus scanner must be activated.

If the aurora 430 / 440 QE / 450 is connected to the computer via a USB hub, the system can cause difficulties when turning off the aurora 430 / 440 QE / 450 with running embroidery software (depending on the PC configuration). These difficulties are easily remedied by rebooting the PC. Stitching in the already started motif can be resumed at the last stitch with the function «Embroidery sequence control» and «Saved embroidery position» (see page 76).

BERNINA embroidery software

BERNINA embroidery software The software is necessary to open and edit (rotate, scale etc.) embroidery designs. Refer to enclosed CD-ROM for user instructions.

BERNINA EC on PC software (Embroidery Control on Personal Computer) The PC software EC on PC will be installed automatically with embroidery software. Motifs can be positioned and embroidered with this software.

Embroidery software 71

Turning on the sewing and embroidery computer

• power switch on «I» (on)
• connect the USB connection cable to the personal computer and the designated connection on the right side of the sewing computer (1)

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ArtDesign

Starting embroidery software

• double-click on the embroidery software icon on your Windows desktop or select Start / Program / embroidery software

Important It is strongly recommended to save all relevant changes of the design before starting the stitchout process.

Opening motifs

• click on the «Open» icon in the toolbar
• the "Open" menu will open. Select your files
• open the desired motif with a double-click and work on it if required

Starting to embroider

• first, REMOVE the HOOP
• click on the icon «Write to Machine» (1)
• activate the aurora models field in the opened window
• press «OK» (3)
• the software EC on PC will be started:
  • after a few seconds the embroidery module icon appears in the display of the embroidery computer
  • embroidery foot No. 26 will be displayed
  • the embroidery module arm moves: the embroidery module is being calibrated
• attach hoop
• the needle position must now match the hoop centre (use hoop template). If not, realign the hoop (see p. 77).

72 Software EC on PC

Embroidery process - EC on PC

PC display

Motif

• the motif is displayed in color
• the smallest possible hoop for the selected motif is displayed
• the needle position (marked by a fine green cross) is at the start point of the first color

Displays on the PC

Connection between PC and embroidery computer

• during data transfer, the connection between PC and embroidery computer is checked
• if the connection is interrupted, a notification in red appears
• place the cursor on the red element (without a mouse click)
• an animation will start showing the user that all cable connections have to be checked

Embroidery requirements

• program checks whether:
  • the presser foot is raised (for calibration)
  • the feed dog is lowered
  • the needle is in the highest position (so that the embroidery arm can move)
  • the presser foot is lowered (for the embroidery process)
• each element which is not in the correct position will be highlighted in orange on the display

Example:

• place the cursor on the orange element (without a mouse click)
• an animation will be started showing how the element is positioned in the correct location
• here the presser foot should be raised

Software EC on PC 73

Motif size

• display of the motif name, width and height in mm

Embroidery time and stitch count

• display in minutes of the total embroidery time of the motif selected
• display of the total stitch count of the motif selected

Color summary

• each color of the motif is represented as a spool in the original color
• for more than four colors scroll through further colors with the now visible right scroll arrow

Color information / Color selection

• place the cursor on the desired color; the spool will be enlarged and the following information will be displayed:
  • thread brand / color number
  • position of the current color / total number of all colors
  • embroidery time of this color
  • total stitch count of this color
• click on the desired color
• the active color will be highlighted in color in the embroidery motif
• the embroidery hoop will move to the start point of the color selected
• double-click on a color = the embroidery process can be started directly with this color (see also «Changing embroidery color sequence manually», page 76)

• scrolling forward though colors can be done with «F3» on the computer keyboard
• click on arrow = return to Color summary

Embroidery progress

• colors already embroidered are indicated by an empty vertical spool
• the remaining total embroidery time as well as the embroidery time of the active color will be displayed

If the embroidery process is started now, always the first color is stitched.

If the embroidery sequence of the color should be changed, you must double-click on the corresponding color or select the «Embroidery sequence control» - see page 76.

74 Software EC on PC

Start-Stop icon on the PC display

• is gray (inactive) if the calibration was not successful
• is blue if starting the embroidery process is possible
• click with the mouse on the icon
• the embroidery hoop will move and the hoop will be checked
• if the hoop is missing or a wrong one was attached, this will be illustrated to the user in an animation
• mouse-click on the animation, and the starting screen reappears
• during the transfer of the data from the PC to the embroidery module an hour glass is visible in the display of the embroidery computer
• as soon as the blinking Start-Stop icon is displayed, the embroidery computer is ready to embroider

• the process is confirmed and the animation closed

• the process is interrupted and the previous screen appears

• the arrow (in place of the Start-/Stop symbol) indicates that a mouse-click will take you back to the starting screen
• if the necessary requirements for the starting are met, the animation tells you that the embroidery computer is now ready to start the embroidery process by pressing the Start-/Stop button
• the embroidery process can only be stopped by pressing the Start-/Stop button on the embroidery computer

Embroidery hoop

• the recommended embroidery hoop will be highlighted on the display
• the attached embroidery hoop will be marked with a green bar
• non selectable embroidery hoops will be indicated by a «No Parking» icon
• the embroidery hoop size will be displayed in mm

EC on PC - Functions 75

Functions on the display

Show grid

1. a large cursor - a blue cross - indicates the hoop center. In addition to the blue cross, there is a green cross for the centre of Mega-Hoop position 1 and a red cross for the centre of Mega-Hoop position 3
2. the grid is now visible, the motif can be positioned better
3. the grid and the cursor are switched off

Zoom (4 levels)

• display of the motif will be enlarged by one level with each mouse click
• the fifth click will bring you back to the starting position
• user defined viewing:
  • place the cursor on the visible arrows without clicking
  • the embroidery motif is moved horizontally or vertically
• press the ctrl button simultaneously to move the motif faster

Position hoop

1. the hoop will be moved until the needle is exactly in the center of the motif
2. the hoop will be moved until the needle is exactly in the center of the hoop, a blue point will appear in the middle of the icon
3. the hoop will be moved until the needle is exactly on the beginning of the selected color

• this procedure can also be done with «F2» on the computer keyboard

shows that the icon has several functions. These can be activated by clicking on them again.

Positioning of motif within the hoop

• this option is available when the positioning mode is active
• place the cursor on the motif (within the blue hoop)
• the cursor becomes a small hand
• left-click and drag the motif to the desired position
• release mouse button and drop the motif in place
• if the motif is positioned outside the embroidery area the color of the frame changes from blue to red
• for better positioning activate the grid if required

Note: If the Start-/Stop button is clicked on when a motif is highlighted with a red frame, the embroidery process will not start because the motif can not be embroidered in the selected position. Move the embroidery motif first until the frame changes from red to blue.

Accurate positioning of motif in the hoop

• click on the icon with the cursor and the positioning mode will be activated
• it can also be activated with «F4» on the computer keyboard
• by clicking on the directional arrow(s) move the motif within the embroidery hoop to the desired position in small steps

• with the four arrows on the keyboard the motif can be positioned exactly
• the embroidery motif moves by 0.2mm each time the key is pressed
• if the «Ctrl» key is pressed as well, the motif moves by 2mm

Single/Multi color motif

• if the icon is inactive, the colors will be embroidered individually, which is standard
• if the icon is active, the complete motif will be embroidered in one color without stopping
• the embroidery motif and the color information will be displayed in one color

76 EC on PC - Functions

Checking the hoop type (e.g. after hoop change)

• place the cursor on the embroidery arm
• the embroidery arm becomes blue
• by clicking on the embroidery arm the hoop will move and the attached hoop will be shown on the display

Move hoop

• the embroidery hoop will be highlighted in blue when the cursor is in the hoop
• click the mouse to move the hoop to the selected place. It moves virtually on screen and physically on the embroidery module
• the cursor indicates the needle position

Check motif size

• check if the position of the motif and the position of the fabric match
• the corners of the frame are shown by circles
• by clicking on the circles clockwise in turn the motif stitching area is read and checked with 4 steps
• the corners can also be selected with «F5», «F6», «F7» and «F8»
• with the Mega-Hoop, use F5 to F8 to travel to the corners. Move the hoop between the upper and lower corners

Embroidery sequence control / Changing embroidery color sequence manually

1. embroidery sequence control
   • the embroidery motif can be read stitch by stitch with the arrow keys
   • if the «Ctrl»- key is pressed in addition, the steps will be increased to min. 10 stitches
   • with «Page up = forward» or «Page down = backward» the steps will be increased to 100 stitches
   • click on the symbol again: the hoop returns to the first stitch in the motif
2. embroidery process interruption in case of thread breakage / thread end
   • clicking on the icon will return the embroidery hoop to the last stitch before thread breakage

Colors skipped in the sequence will be displayed as already embroidered colors by an empty vertical spool. However they can still be selected by clicking on the icon again. If the last color is not embroidered at the end, a green check appears on the Start-Stop icon after completion of the color. By clicking with the cursor on the green check, it disappears and additional colors can be embroidered.

• before re-starting go back a few stitches with the arrow keys if necessary

3. embroidery sequence selectable as desired
   • select function
   • click on desired thread spool

Saved embroidery position

• is only visible when the embroidery sequence control is active and the embroidery process has already started for the current motif

Resuming embroidery after interruption due to power failure:

• switch on PC and embroidery computer
• start embroidery software and EC on PC, see p. 71
• click on «Embroidery sequence control»
• clicking on the «Arrow» icon visible next to it will return the embroidery hoop to the last stitch
• before re-starting go back a few stitches manually if necessary

EC on PC - Functions 77

Moving the hoop for threading upper and bobbin thread

• the hoop can be moved in case it interferes when threading the needle (e.g. when rethreading after thread break or color change)

Position 1:

• mouse-click the symbol or press «F9»
• the hoop moves to the centre, so that the needle is in the hoop centre
• rethread upper thread

Position 2:

• raise presser foot
• mouse-click the symbol again or press «F9»
• the hoop travels to the far left position
• the bobbin can now be replaced or refilled
• click on the Start-/Stop or the hoop moving function symbol or press F9 to move the hoop back to its previous position to resume the stitching
• press the Start-/Stop button to continue embroidering

The embroidery module must be calibrated before the initial application.

Checking if needle and hoop centre match (only with oval hoop)

• this becomes necessary if the actual hoop centre does not match the hoop centre as displayed in the screen
• hoop adjustment has to be done only once as it is valid for all embroidery hoops
• place the template in the hoop
• press «F12» button
• select the oval attached hoop
• place the center of the template with the arrow keys exactly underneath the needle
• press the «shift» key (keep depressed)
• click with the mouse on the now visible icon (next to the «Position hoop» icon)
• the adjustment will be saved

Connection error If the connection is interrupted during the embroidery process the PC and the cable become red.

Provided that the USB cable is correctly plugged in and the connection is not re-established automatically (PC and cable gray), take the following steps:

• close the EC on PC application by clicking on «close» or by «Alt F4»
• check all cables
• switch off sewing and embroidery computer and switch it on again
• disconnect USB cable and plug it in again
• switch PC off and on again
• re-start EC on PC by clicking on «Write to Machine»
• click on «Saved embroidery position» (see Saved embroidery position, page 76)

78 Starting to embroider

Attaching the embroidery hoop

Attaching the embroidery hoop

• raise needle and embroidery presser foot
• hold the hoop with the right side of the fabric up and the attaching mechanism to the left
• pass the hoop under the embroidery presser foot
• squeeze the ends of the attaching mechanism on the side of the hoop
• position the center points of the hoop (small attachment clamps) over the bracket of the embroidery arm
• push the hoop down until it engages
• release the attaching mechanism of the hoop

Removing the hoop

• press both ends on the hoop attaching mechanism towards each other
• pull up to remove the hoop

Starting to embroider

Starting to embroider with the Start-Stop button on head frame

• lower the presser foot
• keep the Start-/Stop button pressed
• the embroidery computer will sew approx. 7 stitches and stop automatically
• raise the presser foot
• cut the thread tail at the beginning of motif
• lower the presser foot
• press the Start-/Stop button to resume the stitching

Interrupting embroidery

• press the Start-/Stop button during embroidering
• the embroidery computer will stop immediately
• the animation that appears can shift when activated
• some of the functions can now be selected again, or press the blue return arrow to return to the starting screen

Completing the color

• lower the presser foot again
• press the Start-/Stop button again
• the embroidery computer embroiders all the sections in the activated color
• the embroidery computer stops automatically when complete

Changing color

• the embroidery computer is automatically ready to embroider the next color
• change color of the upper thread accordingly
• embroider with the new color

Cutting thread ends after embroidery

• raise the presser foot
• remove the embroidery hoop from the embroidery arm
• cut threads and any connecting threads close to the motif
• take care that the bobbin thread is not cut too closely to the stitch plate when removing the embroidery hoop. This prevents tangling when starting again

Mega-Hoop 79

Mega-Hoop (special accessory)

Open or create motif

• open a motif (refer to page 71 on how to open a motif)
• the «Mega-Hoop» file contains Mega-Hoop-compatible stock designs. Select one and edit it if wished
• or create your own Mega-Hoop designs

Starting the embroidery process

• refer to page 71 on how to start embroidering

Repositioning the Mega-Hoop

• an animated symbol appears when it is time to reposition the hoop
• raise the presser foot
• press the front push button on the hoop and move the hoop to the indicated position

Repositioning the Mega-Hoop into Position 1:

• carefully move the hoop until it engages into position 1 (top)

Position 2:

• pull or push the hoop until it engages into position 2 (centre)

Position 3:

• carefully move the hoop until it engages into position 3 (bottom)

Checking the hoop position

• click the tick in the animated symbol or press the Start-/Stop button on the embroidery computer to complete the repositioning of the hoop
• the hoop moves = the hoop position is being checked
• press the Start-/Stop symbol in the display to continue the embroidery

Removing the Mega-Hoop

• move the hoop into position 2
• press the two push buttons at the hoop coupling together and lift hoop out

Upper thread After repositioning the hoop, the upper thread must be tightened by rewinding the spool a little by hand.

Embroidering borders

A border can either consist of several small motifs or long sequenced designs. With continuous designs, the end point of one sequence very often is also the starting point of the next sequence. EC on PC will help you to easily find the exact joining position, even if the fabric needs rehooping.

Preparation: With border embroidery, a line along the border is usually marked on the fabric. Use the template to hoop the fabric, matching the marked line with one of the vertical lines on the template.

Embroidering:

• start embroidery software
• open the design
• the start of the design is marked with a circle and

the end with a cross

• mark the starting point of the design on the fabric as required
• click the «Write to Machine» symbol to start EC on PC

80 Mega-Hoop

Moving the hoop

• click the area within the hoop to move the hoop - on-screen and physically - to the selected place. The new needle position (green cross) is displayed (clicked place = needle position) use the arrow keys to position the hoop: move it until the needle is exactly on the selected point

Positioning the motif:

• click on the zoom symbol until the motif can be easily viewed in the screen
• click «Move motif» symbol
• move the motif until the green cross (needle position) and the motif starting point (circle) match (see p. 75)

use the arrow keys on the keypad to accurately position the motif

Note: If the starting and end point of a motif are in the centre, they can be redefined in embroidery software (refer to user instructions p. 259)

Summary stitches aurora 430 81

Summary stitches

aurora 430

1 - 28 Practical stitches

1. Straight stitch
2. Zig-zag
3. Vari-overlock
4. Running stitch
5. Securing stitch
6. Triple straight and triple zig-zag
7. Blindstitch
8. Double overlock
9. Super stretch stitch
10. Standard buttonhole
11. Narrow buttonhole
12. Stretch buttonhole
13. Keyhole buttonhole
14. Straight stitch buttonhole
15. Hand-look buttonhole
16. Button sew-on program
17. Straight stitch eyelet
18. Darning program
19. Basting stitch
20. Reinforced overlock
21. Gathering stitch
22. Jersey stitch
23. Honeycomb stitch
24. Universal stitch
25. Sewn-out zig-zag
26. Lycra stitch
27. Stretch stitch
28. Knit overlock

29 - 44 / 66 - 150 Decorative stitches

45 - 65 Quilt stitches

82 Summary stitches aurora 440 QE

aurora 440 QE

1 - 31 Practical stitches

1 Straight stitch 2 Zig-zag 3 Vari-overlock 4 Running stitch 5 Securing stitch 6 Triple straight and triple zig-zag 7 Blindstitch 8 Double overlock 9 Super stretch stitch 10 Standard buttonhole 11 Narrow buttonhole 12 Stretch buttonhole 13 Round buttonhole 14 Keyhole buttonhole 15 Straight stitch buttonhole 16 Hand-look buttonhole 17 Button sew-on program 18 Narrow zig-zag eyelet 19 Straight stitch eyelet 20 Darning program 21 Basting stitch 22 Gathering stitch 23 Stretch overlock 24 Jersey stitch 25 Honeycomb stitch 26 Universal stitch 27 Sewn-out zig-zag 28 Lycra stitch 29 Stretch stitch 30 Reinforced overlock 31 Knit overlock

32 - 63 Quilt stitches

64 - 180 Decorative stitches

Summary stitches aurora 450 83

aurora 450

1 - 33 Practical stitches

1. Straight stitch
2. Zig-zag
3. Vari-overlock
4. Running stitch
5. Securing stitch
6. Triple straight and triple zig-zag
7. Blindstitch
8. Double overlock
9. Super stretch stitch
10. Standard buttonhole
11. Narrow buttonhole
12. Stretch buttonhole
13. Round buttonhole
14. Round buttonhole with a square end
15. Keyhole buttonhole
16. Keyhole buttonhole with a tapered end
17. Heirloom buttonhole
18. Straight stitch buttonhole
19. Button sew-on program
20. Zig-zag eyelet
21. Straight stitch eyelet
22. Darning program
23. Large fly stitch
24. Basting stitch
25. Gathering stitch
26. Stretch overlock
27. Jersey stitch
28. Honeycomb stitch
29. Universal stitch
30. Sewn-out zig-zag
31. Lycra stitch
32. Stretch stitch
33. Reinforced overlock

34 - 60 / 74 - 163 Decorative stitches

61 - 73 Quilt stitches

84 Index

Index

A Accessories Box 6 Embroidery 60-62 Sewing 5-7 Software 70 Adapter 62 Altering stitches Buttonholes 48 Decorative stitches 43 Display 23 Stitch length 24 Stitch width 24 Automatic buttonhole Automatic buttonhole foot with slide 3A 5 Programming buttonholes 55

B Balance Buttonholes 51 In Memory 29 Practical and decorative stitches 22 Basting stitch 42 Blind hem Presser foot 5 Sewing 42 Bobbin winder pre-tension 9 BSR Activating BSR function 45 Beeper 46 Deactivating 47 Free motion quilting 46 Functions 46 Sewing 47 Buttonholes 4-step standard 53 5-step keyhole 53 Automatic buttonhole 54-55 Automatic buttonhole foot with slide 3A 5 Balance 51 Buttonhole in long term memory 54 Corded buttonholes 49-50 Feeding aid/compensation plate 5 Information 48 Interfacings and stabilizers 49 Keyhole buttonhole 55 Manual buttonhole 52-53 Overview 52 Overview and brief descriptions 30-32 Programming the length of buttonholes 55 Standard buttonhole 55 Stretch buttonhole 55 Thread tension 48 Button sew-on program 56

C Carrying bag 6 Carrying handle 8 CFL sewing light 11 Cleaning 57 Combining stitch patterns Correcting in Memory 29 Overview of contents 26 Practical and decorative stitches 26 Corded buttonholes 49-50 Cover Thread take-up cover 9

D Darning 36-37 Details Embroidery module 59 Sewing-/embroidery computer 8, 9

E EC on PC Display on PC 72-74 Embroidery functions 75-77 Interrupted connection 77 System requirements 70 Edge-stitching 35 Embroidery (EC on PC) Display on PC 72-74 Embroidery presser foot 64 Embroidery stabilizers 66-67 Free-arm embroidery 62 Needles 19 Optional accessories 61-62 Preparing 64 Stabilizers 66-67 Stitch types 68 Thread tension 64 Threads 69 Trouble shooting 58 Embroidery designs Functions 75-77 Opening a design 71 Selecting 71 Single- or multicolored motifs 75 Zoom 75 Embroidery module Attaching/removing 63 Attaching/removing hoops 78 Details 59 Suitcase system (optional accessory) 61 Embroidery process Embroidery progress 73 Hour glass 74 Starting 78 Embroidery software 61, 70-71 Embroidery stabilizers 66 Embroidery template 65

F Fabric Centering 65 Hooping the fabric 65 Needle and thread 18 Failures EC on PC 72, 77 Trouble shooting 58 Feed-dog Position 20 Raised / lowered 20 Foam pads 5 Foot control 10 Connecting 10 Needle up/down 10 Fonts 28 Free Hand System presser foot lifter 11 Functions 24-25 Alphabets, numbers 25 Balance 24 Clear 24 Memory 24 Mirror image 24 Needle positions 24 Needle stop up/down 24 Pattern begin 24 Pattern end, Pattern repeat 25 Pound key 25 Reverse sewing 25 Securing 24 Speed control 24 Start-Stop 25 Stitch length 24 Stitch pattern 25 Stitch width 24

G Grid (guiding lines) 75

H Hand-look quilt stitch 44 Handwheel 9 Height compensating plates 5, 21 Heirloom buttonhole 32 Hoops Attaching/removing 78 Display 74 Hooping 65 Hooping the fabric 65 Mega-Hoop 79-80 Move hoop function 76 Optional accessories 61 Positioning 76 Selecting 74 Template 65

L Lens set 7 List of contents 3 Long time Memory 54 Lower thread Accessories 5 Embroidery bobbin case 64 Inserting the bobbin 15 Removing the bobbin case 16 Winding the bobbin 15 Lubricating 57

M Maintenance (cleaning, lubricating, servicing) 57 Memory Correcting in Memory 29 Display 23

Index 85

Leaving Memory 29 Programming alphabets 28 Programming practical and decorative stitches 26 Samples 27

Mirror image Display 23 Mirror image (left/right) function button 24

N Needle Changing the needle 16 Embroidery 60, 64 Holder 8 Information 18, 19 Needle stop up/down 24 Needle summary 19 Needle up/down 24 Setting the needle position 8, 24 Threading 14 Twin and triple needle 13

Needle system 18

O Optional accessories Embroidery 61-62 Sewing 7

Overlock Application 39-40 Overlock foot 5 Stitch patterns 30-33, 81-83

Outline stitch 68

Overview Display 23 Embroidery module 59 Function buttons 24-25 Sewing-/embroidery computer 8-9 Stitch patterns 30-32, 81-83

P Patchwork Patchwork foot 5

Power cable Connection 10

Power switch 10

Practical stitches Basting stitch 42 Blind hem 42 Darning program 36 Edge-stitching 35 Flat joining seam 40 Manual darning 37 Overlock seams 39-40 Overview 83 Patchwork 41 Securing program 36 Stitch selection 29 Straight stitch 34 Triple straight stitch 34 Zig-zag stitch 38 Zipper 41

Presser foot Display 23 BSR 5, 45 Changing the presser foot 17 Presser foot pressure 22 Standard accessories 5

Q Quilting Free-motion quilting 44 Quilting stitches 44 Quilting with BSR 45 Stipple quilting 44

R Reinforced overlock 32

Running stitch Practical stitch 30 Presser foot 5

S Satin stitch 68

Safety instructions 2

Save, Memory 26-29 Alphabets 28 Correcting in Memory 29 Deleting in Memory 29 Function buttons 24-25 Numbers 28 Opening in Memory 26 Programming 26-28 Samples 27 Temporary altered stitch memory 33

Screen Display 23 Cleaning 57

Seam guide (presser foot) 5, 35

Seam guide on slide-on table 11

Settings Balance 22 Presser foot pressure 22 Thread tension 17

Setting up the sewing-/embroidery computer Embroidery module 63-67 Sewing computer 10-17

Sewing Accessories 5-7 Function buttons 24-25 Letters (Alphabets) 25, 28 Reverse sewing 25 Sewing corners 21 Sewing stitch combinations 26-28 Sewing with BSR 45 Special characters 25 Using compensating plates 21

Sewing light (CFL light) 11

Sewing-on elastic 38

Sewing speed Foot control 10 Speed control 24

Slide-on table 11

Spool discs 5

Spool pin Horizontal spool pin 12 Supplementary spool pin 13, 14

Stabilizer 49

Stitch patterns Display 23 Overview 81-83 Selecting 29

Stitch plate Attaching/removing 20 Cleaning 57 Optional accessories 7, 61

T Thread Embroidery related 69 Information 18

Threading Lower thread 15, 64 Twin and tripple needle 13 Upper thread 12, 64

Thread cutter 9, 14, 15, 16

Thread guide 8

Thread take-up 8 Thread take-up cover 8

Thread tension Buttonholes 48 Embroidery 64 Tension adjusting wheel 9 Tension disc 13 Upper thread 17

Trouble shooting 58

Triple straight stitch 34

Twin and triple needle Threading a twin/triple needle 13

U Underlay stitch 68

Upper thread Threading 12, 64 Upper thread tension 17, 64

V Vari-Overlock 39

W Winding the bobbin 15

Z Zig-zag stitch 38

Zipper 41

09/10 EN 032 907 52 04

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