Felting with BERNINA Embroidery Software

Use Digitize > PunchWork to create felting objects and designs for use with the BERNINA Rotary Hook Punch tool.

In BERNINA V9, a dedicated PunchWork tool allows you to create felting objects and designs for use with the BERNINA Rotary Hook Punch.

PunchWork properties

The object properties for punchwork are similar to appliqué. The digitizing technique is essentially the same. See also Creating closed-object appliqué.

Punchwork consists of the following components, all of which, apart from the punching itself, are optional. Each component is separated in the stitching sequence by a machine stop.

Component		Notes
Placement line		Include a guideline to assist placement of roving.
		Stop: Place roving evenly within placement line.
Cutting line		Include a cutting line to hold down edge of the roving, and mark out the shape.
		Stop: Cut excess roving from around the edges. Change to punch plate and needle.
Needle punching	†	Punch the felting – consists of loose tackdown and stipple stitching. Adjust density as required.
		Stop: Remove cutting line as required. Change back to embroidery plate and needle.
Border stitching		Include a border as desired – default is satin. Blanket stitching is also available. Set border width and stitch spacing.
Offset		Use the slider to offset borders in relation to the placement line. By default, Satin is centered, while Blanket sits inside the placement line. Adjust as required.
† Mandatory

Tip Check fabric settings before you stitch out. If you are stitching details over felting, you may need to select a heavier fabric to compensate. See also Change fabrics.

Design technique

Because you have complete control over the punchwork elements to include in your design, different approaches may be taken. The sample below includes only a placement line and felting.

Once the roving has been punched into position, the border stitching can be applied. In this case, border stitching has been digitized separately as run stitch outlines.

Tip Study the punchwork design included in the designs folder. Try stitching it out to practice the techniques involved. Check your BERNINA machine documentation.