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These parameters apply exclusively to selected Column objects.
This page details the parameters for Column objects within Embird Studio NEXT. It describes three distinct methods for filling columns with stitches: Zig-Zag Sample (Satin stitch), Strips, and Multilayer. The Zig-Zag Sample fill provides extensive customization, including stitch patterns, spacing, underlay, cover stitches, and effects such as random broadening, envelope, and gradients. The Strips fill generates lines along the column edges with adjustable counts and stitch lengths. The Multilayer fill creates raised effects by layering zig-zag stitches with precise control over layer count and offset.
A Column object consists of a start base, two edges, an end base, and optional inner segments.
(A) represents the column starting point, located on the first edge (1). (B) is the end point located on the second edge (2). (C) denotes the start base, while (D) represents the end base. (S) is an optional inner segment; a Column may contain multiple inner segments.
Column objects can be filled with stitches using the following methods:
This fill type is referred to as a satin stitch when a simple zig-zag sample is applied.
Column object filled with zig-zag samples.
Sample refers to the specific zig-zag stitch pattern filling the Column object. Stitch samples vary in stitch count and layout.
The Spacing parameter defines the maximum distance between stitch samples. If the Column object forms an arc, the distance on the inner curve is automatically reduced.
Auto Shortening is a function that reduces the length of certain stitches on the inner side of an arc to prevent excessive stitch density.
The red dots in the illustration indicate stitches that have been automatically shortened within a sharp curve.
The Auto Select Underlay check box allows the user to disable the automatic software determination of the underlay type for the object.
The Center, Edge, and Zig-Zag check boxes enable the selection of specific underlay types. Further details regarding the offset for Edge and Zig-Zag underlays are located in the Parameters - Whole Design chapter.
(A) indicates the object shape, (B) the edge underlay, (C) the zig-zag underlay, and (D) the center underlay.
The Spacing parameter specifies the density of the zig-zag underlay.
The controls in this tab allow you to override global underlay settings that are typically applied to all objects during stitch generation. Refer to the Object's Individual Underlay Parameters chapter for additional information.
Make Cover Stitches allows the user to disable cover stitches. This is useful when only the underlay is required for a design digitized in external software.
Stitch Smoothness in Corners affects the fan-shaped distribution of stitches within corner areas.
Note: A Column can be followed by a Carving object to provide additional stitch texture.
Pull Compensation extends each stitch at the edge of an object to compensate for thread pull on elastic fabrics or sinkage on fleece. Thread pull causes stitches to contract inward, making the finished object narrower than intended.
Max. Random Broadening defines the maximum random extension of column stitches to the side. Parameter #1 applies to the first edge of the column, and #2 applies to the second. This setting creates a "ragged edges" effect.
Envelope shortens specific column stitches to create specialized visual effects. All underlays should be disabled when using the Envelope setting.
Gradient modifies the distance between stitches. The distance gradually transitions from the base spacing value to the spacing value plus the gradient value. The Gradient Type menu provides various gradation schemes.
The parameters on this tab facilitate an object-level control, overriding global tie-up settings. This capability allows for the individual adjustment of securing tie-up stitches for the specific object.
This tab expands functionality beyond simple global defaults by providing:
Strips are stitch paths placed along the column edges.
The Number parameter defines the total count of strips.
The Min. Length and Max. Length parameters define the range for stitch length. Lengths are adjusted automatically to provide a smooth approximation of curved strip sections.
The Multilayer Fill is designed to create 3D volume without the need for manual digitizing of multiple overlapping objects. While standard columns consist of a single cover layer and optional underlays, the multilayer mode automates the stacking process to build height.
The software generates a sequence of zig-zag layers that gradually build vertical relief. This is achieved through two primary controls:
The Multilayer mode is frequently used in conjunction with 3D Embroidery Foam (Puff Foam) to create the extreme relief commonly seen on high-end sports caps.
When using foam, the most important technical requirement is "cutting" the foam with the needle. Standard satin stitches may not be dense enough to cleanly perforate the foam edges. By using Multilayer Fill, the repeated needle penetrations in the same area ensure the foam is sliced cleanly, allowing the excess foam to be pulled away easily after stitching.
When stitching over foam, the density must be significantly higher than standard embroidery, often ranging from 0.1 mm to 0.2 mm. The multiple layers help compress the foam consistently. Without these multiple passes, the foam might "poke through" the stitches or the stitches might sink unevenly into the material.