People ask me, “What’s the best way to learn my software?” My answer is always, “Use it!” You can read, watch videos and go to classes but until you start using your software as often as possible (ideally everyday!), you really won’t be comfortable. You just have to get in there and do it!
If you don’t know where to begin, start with the free monthly projects that are available through the My Inspiration Today screen. When you open your software, click on the Free Monthly Projects icon on the opening screen. 
You’ll arrive at the Inspired by Dime website.
Scroll down the page to view the download link. Click on the link to download the project.
Once downloaded, you’ll find two PDF files in the folder – instructions for preparing the design in the software and the other for embroidering/sewing the project.
Tamara Evans, Inspiration Consultant, has created these projects just for you. She openly shares her wealth of knowledge in each project. You’ll find quick steps to efficiently edit the designs, secrets to controlling the stitches in the software plus methods of good practice to cut down on errors.
The software lessons in all of these projects are designed to help you learn how to use the software’s features. Even if you’re not tempted to stitch the project – take the time to work the software lesson. What you learn can be applied to any project you would like to stitch. And before you know it – you’ll be comfortable with the icons and features.
10 COMMENTS
Lynette Chang
9 years agoWhat software are you talking about? I have 6D and want to learn it. Is this for it?
Lynette Chang in Australia
eileenroche
9 years ago AUTHORHi Lynette – the software I’m referring to is Perfect Embroidery Pro by DIME. It’s only available in the US at this time – at bricks and mortar dealers.
Dottie C
9 years agoThis has always been my biggest problem!! I never seem to have time to get down there and play with the software. Then, when I need to use it, I’m in the dark. This IS the best advice, I just wish I could use it. It may be a good New Years Eve resolution for me.
Cathy E
9 years agoLynette;
Do you have Pfaff (6D)??? I think Eileen’s using Brother. Pretty sure that software is a bit different. And, the Pfaff software doesn’t have the icon Eileen is referencing. Of course, I’m still attempting to use the 5D version of Pfaff, so, I could be wrong on the icon thing.
Cathy E.
eileenroche
9 years ago AUTHORCathy, I’m using DIME’s brand of software – Perfect Embroidery Pro, available at Inspiration dealers across the country.
Shea
9 years agoI’ve got 6D and have just barely scratched the surface. Dottie, I do the same thing – it seems I never have time to really get in there and learn all the different features which leaves me in the dark too when I need to use it. It’s a good New Year’s resolution – I will do the same! Heck, I paid enough for it, might as well learn how to do more than a couple of things with it!
Carolyn
9 years agoI have 5D Extra. I agree that the only way to “learn” is to play with it by doing projects. I still haven’t done a split project… I haven’t gotten up the nerve!! I love the software program, and will continue to update it.
Clem
9 years agoI think that is all of our problem. We learn the software by taking classes, then do not have enough time to practice. I have PEDesign, the latest version. I learned how to use the initial program because I was a very very very beginner. Then I quit using it for a very long time because of various things going on in my life. I am now back at it, have upgraded because I have a new machine, and can’t remember much of what I learned. Now that the holidays are almost over for the time being, I am going to try and jump in and re-learn…. One thing I have noticed ( I am sure others know this too) I practice on things for me, that way when mistakes are made no one knows but me. When I wear my mistakes, no one still notices. I think we are too self critical. Just sayin’ 😉
vickie
9 years agoLadies it dose not matter what programme we use to digitize with they all seem to do the same. I have tried PEDesign, Generations and now I am using Creative Drawings. I have been digitizing for about 4 years. And now I am teaching ladies how to use their programs. I tell them that if they spend 1 hour per day using their software their skills will improve, and to make a PLAY folder to keep their digitizing designs in so that they know where to find them in class. We all make mistakes and it is part of the learning process. ladies enjoy your digitizing programes
Vickie
Darwin Australia
Beth R
9 years agoI love having the free monthly projects to learn from. (And the free part makes them even better!)