Based on some questions I have answered lately, I thought it would be wise to
post some answers at the list so others can benefit from them too.

1) Embroidery Magic 2 allows you to saved files in two formats. First, any tme
you create lettering or a new design in your program, ALWAYS use File-Save to
save the file in ppl format. This is not a stitch file. You cannot send it to
your machine to be stitched. Instead, it maintains the original settings you
selected for the original portions of the design. These include stitch length,
density, size, shape, underlay, etc. Even if you import a design from another
source and add lettering to it, use File-Save to save the ppl format. This is
the file you would use to adjust settings later if that is needed. Even though
I have been using EM2 since it was first released in 2003, I still save designs
in ppl format first. And yes, I do it EVERY time.

2) If you are creating a new design, save it after every color or major
section. You never know when your computer might automatically shut down.
Saving it often prevents you from losing your work.

3) After you have saved a design as a ppl file using File-Save, save it again
using File-Save As. This saves the file in dst format. It also automatically
saves the color information as a pei file. You cannot open that file. But the
next time you open the design in EM2, it will open in the colors you used to
create it. The dst file is the stitch file but it does not allow you to do a
lot of editing.

4) This one is important so make note of it: Use the vertical color bar as a
sequence bar. Color #1 should be the first color in the design. Color #2
should be the second color in the design. If you import a design that has 5
colors and you want to add lettering to it, select color #6 before you start
creating the lettering. Your lettering is also part of the sequence and should
be created with the NEXT number after the design.

And this one is important too. Use this list as a source for information. You
will find lessons in the files area. And there are many people here who are
very willing to help you learn more about using EM2. It is easy to get
frustrated with ANY digitizing program. But asking questions is a good way to
learn more. And when you ask a question, others learn too. So please ask!

Aunty M
www.auntymdesigns.com