This is a very common question that arises on many embroidery designs. There are a number of reasons as to why an outline may be off including;

• the problem being in the digitizing of the design (ie it is too dense, there is no underlay);
• problems with the machine settings (tension too tight causing increased pull); or
• the fabric has not been adequately stabilized.

If you are using a reputable and experienced digitizers design, the design in question will have been tested to ensure the outlines and components are properly in place and the underlying issue often is insufficient stabilization. I have included a section below as to some common stabilization techniques to help improve the performance of your stitch out.

Some common things to check when your outlines are off are:

• change or add stabilizer to your fabric (see Stabilizer Tips for recommendations);
• replace your needle with a new one;
• check hooping – incorrect hooping can cause outlines to be off. For example, if your hooping is too loose, the fabric can move during stitching leading to objects and outlines not falling in their proper place. If the hooping is too tight, when the fabric is removed, the fabric might pucker;
• reduce your tension on your machine to that recommended for machine embroidery (refer to your machine manual for further information); and
• reduce your embroidery sewing speed to ensure precise placement of stitches.

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