The resources available to learn your software are the same ones you probably used to decide what to purchase, but now that you’re using the software you’ll be looking at them from a different perspective. If you purchased your embroidery software from a dealer, they probably offer classes in using it. This is usually only for larger, more expensive software packages. Face-to-face contact with an instructor is is invaluable, and can quickly increase your confidence in using your software, so if your dealer offers classes, be sure to take advantage of them.
If dealer classes aren’t available for the software you’ve purchased, start with the user guide that comes with your software. Most embroidery software companies have printable manuals on their websites. Software manuals are often large and may get updated frequently, so if you prefer to read from a printed page, print out only the pages you need, not the entire manual. Unfortunately, manuals often just list what each button does, while new users are looking for “how do I do this?” information and become frustrated. Luckily, other learning resources are available in addition to the manuals.
Sometimes seeing how something is done is more helpful than reading about it, so if the manual isn’t helping you to understand your software, videos might. Many embroidery software vendors have video tutorials on their websites. In addition, there are independent instructors who also offer instructional videos for embroidery software, some free and others for a fee. You can watch the free videos to get a feel for the instructor, and purchase others if you enjoy their style or they offer courses in areas you’d like more in-depth instruction on. One of the advantages of videos is that you can follow along in your software. In fact, following along in your software is probably the best way to use videos because you will be using several of your senses at the same time, which will help to cement the information in your brain.
Online chat groups are also a great resource for learning your software. Both Yahoo and Google have groups geared to a wide range of interests, as does Facebook. These groups are often useful sources for information that is not easily found elsewhere. They can also be really helpful when you are in the middle of a project and can’t get the software to do something you know it should do. Many of these groups are hosted by instructors for the software, giving you a sense of the instructor’s style before you anything from them.
Finally, avoid the temptation to go on a never-ending quest for “the best” embroidery software. Manufacturers try to create the best software possible. Despite this, every software package has its quirks and functions which are less than user-friendly. Start by becoming familiar with one embroidery software package. This will help you become familiar with the terms and functions used for most embroidery software packages. Even if you decide that some other software better suits your needs, you’ll be better-equipped to evaluate new software if you’ve thoroughly learned the software you already own.
No matter which embroidery software package you chose, or the method you pick to learn to use it, the key to learning to use your software is starting with small, simple projects and working through all the steps from editing to final stitching. Taking the time to use your software and explore all that it can do will make you familiar with the vocabulary and increase your confidence as an embroiderer, which will go a long way towards allowing you to create the beautiful items you’ve been imagining.