[sudo-discuss] embroidery machine

[Jake]

people have been using the embroidery machine lately.  you might notice a 
piece of fabric on it with practice runs on it, and a black piece with 
SUDOROOM in green thread.

the machine works perfectly.  if you want to learn how to use it, I can 
show you anytime i'm there, including every tuesday evening starting at 
7pm.

For now you need to use a stencil to get lettering. (although you can 
certainly try to freehand stuff)  There are a couple of sets of letters 
you can set up to spell out your name or whatever.

you could also take a thin piece of wood and carve a design into it, and 
use it as a stencil.  You could also (easily) 3D print a stencil with the 
design of your choice on it.  There is probably also a way to use the 
laser engraver to make a stencil, although the groove in the stencil 
should be a bit wider than the laser beam.  Probably the right settings 
and the right wood would produce a good stencil after a single pass.

Also, the embroidery machine can be used as a sewing machine, in which you 
can move the fabric in any direction (not just in a straight line).
The catch being that you have to move it yourself and it won't guide you 
or help you keep a pace.

The hardest part is controlling the speed using the pedal.. It's like a 
clutch on a sports car, it takes some getting used to.  Let me know if you 
want a lesson.

-jake