Parameters - Manual Stitches

These parameters apply exclusively to selected Manual Stitches objects.

The Maximum Length (1) setting determines the longest stitch permitted when the Manual Stitches object is compiled into actual stitches. Any manual stitch exceeding the sum of the Maximum Length and the Minimum Length is automatically divided into one or more stitches of the maximum length, followed by a shorter stitch if necessary. This remaining stitch will never be shorter than the specified Minimum Length (2).

Manual Stitches Object - minimum and maximum stitch

The Manual Stitches are a specific object type where the digitizer maintains absolute control over every needle penetration. Unlike automatic objects - such as Fill or Satin stitches - where the software calculates stitch placement based on density, a Manual Stitch object follows the exact nodes placed by the user.

Manual stitches are primarily utilized for:

Precision paths: Creating specific connections between design elements that must follow a particular path to remain hidden.
Fine details: Digitizing tiny elements, such as a glint in an eye, where automatic stitching may be too bulky.

Even though points are placed manually, the embroidery software must adhere to the physical limitations of the embroidery machine. Most machines cannot execute a single stitch longer than approximately 12.1 mm to 12.7 mm. The parameters function as follows:

Stitch Division: If a manual segment exceeds the Maximum Length, the software automatically divides that segment into smaller, safe intervals.
The Remainder: To prevent thread breaks or "bird's nests," the Minimum Length setting ensures that no resulting stitch is too small for the machine to process effectively.

Tie-Up Stitches

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:

Asymmetric Control: Independent settings for both the tie-in (start) and tie-off (end) stitches.
Enhanced Thread Locking: Options to utilize advanced tie-in stitch patterns (e.g., self-crossing structures) to achieve stronger anchoring in situations where the basic linear knot is inadequate.