The Position setting is always to be found in applique designs – otherwise they would not be applique. The position of the fabric is sewn down, and then the applique is applied. Using this information we can do some additional things in the software:
1.) Generate a fabric simulation. The fabric is simulated using the chosen color of the object. You can change this setting, and the color itself ‘live’ in the window to preview the results. When you find a suitable setting, you can click ‘OK’.
2.) The position is usually a simple enough set of stitches to be processed into output for an automatic cutting machine. These machines will take a file and use that to cut the fabric. Having cut the applique beforehand makes the embroidery process much more rewarding.
The software analyzes the shapes created by the Position stitches and then creates a simpler output for the cutters, and saves it to their file. .FCM for Brother Scan ‘n Cut and the .studio Silhouette products, along with .SVG and .PLT files can be saved. Nearly every cutter can make use of one or more of these formats.
Save the cut file and send it to your machine according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Generally speaking, applique steps are;
1.) Set the colors as needed.
2.) Save the cut file.
3.) Save the design file (working and stitch)
4.) Cut the applique.
5.) Embroider the design.
Alternately, you can still use the image in a print process, and pre-cut the applique by hand. There are a lot of options!