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Member since 1/22/15
Posts: 3
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Posted on: 1/27/15 1:17 PM ET
Hello, I would like a recommendation for what machine to buy (not new) that can do halfway DECENT lettering and numbers. I have a Brother SQ9050 and the letters are only 1/2" tall and turn out illegible! I need letters which can be at least 1" and legible. Also a machine that doesn't have to use 'embroidery thread, but can use serger thread. Ive got 5 machines and only one does lettering. Thank you in advance.
-- Edited on 1/27/15 at 1:18 PM --
  
Member since 6/4/07
Posts: 800
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Posted on: 1/27/15 4:45 PM ET
It sounds to me like you need an embroidery machine. Most machines have a wide selection of built in lettering. If nothing is satisfactory to your taste, there is always embroidery software you can buy for lettering.

Why do you want to use serger thread? You probably could use it on an embroidery machine, (I have used sewing thread) but it may not give the best results.
  
Member since 6/4/07
Posts: 800
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Posted on: 1/27/15 4:49 PM ET
oops! Double post
-- Edited on 1/27/15 at 4:49 PM --
  
Member since 12/3/06
Posts: 10072
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Posted on: 1/27/15 6:18 PM ET
What Ica said. Polyester machine embroidery thread holds up well. With an embroidery machine you have to use a specific weight machine embroidery bobbin thread.

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OLD CHINESE PROVERB: I HEAR & I FORGET; I SEE & I REMEMBER; I DO & I UNDERSTAND.
  
Member since 2/7/13
Posts: 158
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Posted on: 1/27/15 7:57 PM ET
In reply to EllDlady
As others mention. Best bet is an embroidery machine - the only other way is to lean free motion using an open toe quilting foot. This needs much more expertise than I for one have. I had a Brother embroidery machine that did great lettering but supplies can get costly but worth it if you do a lot of embroidery. Serger thread is very flimsy and easily breakable so I would not think it suitable for embroidery. Another way to make larger letters is to use cut out appliques fabric lettering and then Heat N Bond to adhere to fabric. For extra hold and décor I would do a decorative stitch around them. Worked well for the baby bibs I made. Hope this helps some.
  
Member since 12/10/11
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Posted on: 1/27/15 10:33 PM ET
I would just join the chorus of probably not a good idea to use serger thread for embroidery.
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Mostly Babylock: Ellegante, Crescendo, Evolution, Ovation. Plus a Sailrite LSZ-1
  
Member since 5/14/05
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Posted on: 1/27/15 10:45 PM ET
I agree you will need to use an embroidery machine for letters the size you want. However, I have done embroidery with overlocker/serger thread on one project but the detail wasn't as good as with the fine embroidery thread, but it worked OK for that project as I need something a bit more sturdy than embroidery thread.

In saying that, I did use a prewound bobbin. Whatever thread you choose, do some practice pieces because with thicker thread you will more than likely need to adjust the tension.

Threads (other than embroidery thread) mostly throw off a lot of lint too, so this will need to be cleared on a regular basis.

Not sure if this helps? ;-)
  
Member since 1/22/15
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Posted on: 1/29/15 1:52 PM ET
Thank you everyone. Now to find a recommendation I guess for an embroidery machine without spending and arm and a leg..
Re: serger thread - It fits on my serger and I've been using it as serger and as regular sewing machine thread (on those plastic spindle things that sit to the rear of the machine).
A friend GAVE me over $5000 worth of thread. Her mom bought out a factory in NC (back when everything was made in the USA). her Mom passed away, so my friend gave it to me. They are those big spools of thread. Gorgeous colors, Good quality, so I want to be able to use them. I'm not sure what the thread is called, but the sticker inside says - Perma core. made in USA. 6000 yards.
Is there an embroidery machine that does the different fonts etc that you don't need to mess with hoops and computers and cards? I LOVE the concept of the Brother SQ9050, just put the fabric under the presser foot and away you go, no hassle. But its really you get what you pay for - CHEAP lettering LOL.
  
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