PHC files to Art and Stitch Motif files

 If you missed the first post of this series and want to learn more about PHC files, check the BLOG archive to the right of this post.  

Or CLICK HERE to learn more about the newest feature in Version 6 of Art and Stitch PLUS

Once I found a PHC file from my sewing machine that will work, here's the process I used to create and save as a NEW (decorative) motif fill for quilting.

Open the Art and Stitch program and OPEN the selected PHC file as you would normally open a stitch file.   Be sure to check that CONVERT TO OUTLINES box.

Once the design opens to the Workspace, Rt. click on the top horizontal ruler and select Snap to Guidelines.  Use the RESHAPE tool to select the design.

We only need one repeat.  Drag down a dotted alignment bar from the upper ruler and locate it over the Start/Stop points.  You'll need to keep those points on the same horizontal plane for perfect sewing alignment.  Find the STOP of one repeat on the horizontal plane and right-click your mouse and select SPLIT LINE as shown below.

Once you have isolated the one repeat, you can delete the remaining portion by selecting and press the DELETE key or CTRL+X.

Next select the STITCH EDIT button right below the RESHAPE tool button.

Another tool bar will appear under the top horizontal tool bar. 

Left-Click, Hold and Drag a box around the new design to select.

Your view should change to something like this.

From the TOOLS tab, select MOTIF PATTERN EDITOR> SAVE MOTIF PATTERN.

 

A new widow will appear with a preview of your repeated design.  If you need to make changes, click CANCEL.  If you are happy, click SAVE.

Give your file a NEW name and click SAVE.  I start all my new motifs with the initials "KK" so I know they are mine.  Identify yours with your own personal identifier.

Open a new file workspace.  Draw a shape for a fill and or a line / curve to apply the new MOTIF.

From the PROPERTIES panel to the right of the Workspace, select your new MOTIF and click APPLY.  All of YOUR new motifs will be highlighted PURPLE.

To apply to a line or curve, select and click LINE SEW TYPE : MOTIF button.

To change MOTIF size, enter a larger or smaller number in PATTERN SIZE in the PROPERTIES PANEL and click APPLY.

SAVE your work as an ANS (working file) format.  This new motif can be used for your next beautiful quilting OR embroidery project.  HAVE FUN!!

Were you able to locate a PHC file on your sewing machine that works?  Tell us below in the COMMENTS.

If not, would you like to learn how to create your own motif?  We'll talk next time!

See you soon!

Happy Quilting!

KK

If you missed the first post of this series, check the BLOG archive to the right of this post.  

Or CLICK HERE to learn more about the newest feature in Version 6 of Art and Stitch PLUS.