[Elizabeth]

I just got the Brother SE400 for Christmas and have been playing around with it. I’m looking to get some software for it so I can do more with it. I have no idea where to begin. I’m not looking to spend a fortune on it because it’s more of a hobby for me. Any suggestions on reasonably priced software? Thanks!

[with love Heidi]

I don’t have an embroidery machine but I am currently saving up for one 🙂
I would check out this forum on pattern review dedicated to machine embroidery, there has recently been discussions about embroidery programs. http://sewing.patternreview.com/SewingDiscussions/forum/25
Here’s a link to some free softwear by Bernina. It should work with the Brother, I can see a Brother machine in the drop down menu in the first picture.https://www.bernina.com/en-AU/Products-AU/BERNINA-products/Software/BERNINA-embroidery-software/ArtLink-Seven
If you are looking for interesting and alternative embroidery designs check out Urban Thread, shttp://www.urbanthreads.com
This is the site the convinced me I would enjoy machine embroidery 🙂

[thejennigirl]

I have the 770. I just google “free appliqués” and “free embroidery” and have found a palethora of free files that way. I save them to my external hard drive, and only put what I am planning to use ASAP on my embroidery file only thumb drive (a regular thumb drive, with no files but embroidery files on it). You just have to make sure the files are PES (I think ART files works too, but don’t quote me on that) in order for them to work with your machine. Also, spray adhesive is your best friend. Iron on interfacing won’t really cut it. I’m still tinkering with mine (got it the end of June), but I learned quickly that you need to make sure you change out your needle regularly, use a quality embroidery thread, make sure your bobbin has enough thread before starting a project, clover fabric clips are especially helpful when embroidering tee shirts, and keep an eye on your project while in process. The instant you walk away, things will go wrong.

Happy monograming!

[juliamom2009]

I have a Brother SE400. I don’t have any software, but I did use a trial version of Sew What Pro when I was doing some monograms. There are a ton of resources online for Sew What Pro.

If you are just doing designs, you generally don’t need software, unless you are going to merge designs or alphabets. Call me an enabler, but the absolute coolest embroidery designs are on Urban Threads (http://www.urbanthreads.com/) – they have great sales all the time, so get their newsletter or stalk their Facebook and Instagram feeds. There’s also a Facebook group for SE400 users if you’re a FB person.

Also, Youtube Brother SE400 for info about stabilizers, etc. You will need cutaway, tearaway, and Tender Touch (to avoid scratchy stitches on clothing) to start with. Or, you can always shoot me a message!

[Reeni]

I am trying to convince myself I don’t need an embroidery machine but the cost of monogrammed uniforms, those designs on Urban Threads, and dd’s upcoming communion (for which I will be making the most beautiful dress I can manage if it kills me) are pulling hard…