machine embroidery digitizing services

[Auryn]

I apologize if this isn't the right place.
I was hoping that with the vast amounts of knowledge here someone could provide a reference.
I need to get some graphics digitized so I can make them in my embroidery machine.
I could learn the process myself- I have the software- but not the available time at the moment.

There are tons of websites online that offer it
but I would prefer to use someone trusted and reliable.

thanks for obliging me 

[Merlin the Elder]

What kind of format would it require? I have some things I'd like to have done of that nature, and would rather give any business to my friends and acquaintances out here. Does it need to just be vector graphics, or do those machines use a proprietary format?

[Auryn]

Each machine uses a different format
Afterall they can't make it easy.

I would need mine in PES format for my Brother machine

As far as the image file, I would think a vector would be the easiest thing but Im not sure

[Dinobabe]

I have the software to do it and have used it many times.  Depending on the image it can be VERY time consuming.  I usually import as a .bmp then I can export as just about anything.  I'm sure that any professional company has much better software than the home user, but I like the idea of having control over my image and being able to do any image I want, regardless.

Auryn, would you mind posting 1 or 2 of the graphics?

[Auryn]

Not at all Dinobabe- as soon as I get home

Let me ask you, since it seems like you've done it at home before.
Do you have any guidelines you can point me to or tutorials for digitizing??
My biggest issue is the enter and exit point and also the color switching

[Dinobabe]

I always default the center for the start point.  That way I know the machine is reading the hoop correctly (whole other issue! lol).  I let the software decide the exit point.  My software came with a tutorial.  It sucked.  I learned by lots of trial and error (and cussing ).  Sometimes when I do colors I pick really contrasting ones for the design and then just put in whatever thread color I want.  When physically switching the thread make sure you don't push on the fabric in the hoop so you don't stretch it out of place.  When doing a large design (or multiple) of one color have another bobbin ready to go so you don't have to unthread the machine to wind a bobbin.  Saves a lot of time.  If you have any other questions let me know!

What machine/software do you have?

[Auryn]

I have a brother SE400- so far its been wonderful
as long as I don't use Sulky crappy embroidery thread- I am a fan of Gutermann thread

I have done about 45 designs so far - bought online- with no problem- but I need to do some new personal designs

Software wise I have PE design - its ok but nothing fantastic.

[Dinobabe]

I have the Singer Futura with the Autopunch software.  A bit of a learning curve but otherwise I love it.

I recently did 28 shirts with a cannon logo (that I designed) for my Civil War Battery.  Turned out great!