Tools required:

Tools required:

The My Stitch Monitor App allows you to check the progress, thread colors, and duration of your embroidery projects, and receive notifications when the machine stops or needs your attention.

To download and install the app, visit the Google Play Store or the Apple App Store on your device. Brother My Stitch Monitor is a handy tool for embroiderers who want to keep an eye on their machines and enjoy their creativity.

Compatible Machines

In this article, we will show you how to use each pen holder and what kind of pens you can use with them. Whether you want to use the standard pen holder, the universal pen holder, the small barrel pen holder, or the calligraphy pen holder, you will find the right tool for your creative project.

Pen Holder

The Pen Holder comes standard with selected Brother ScanNCut machines and has been designed to work specifically with Brother’s range of ScanNCut pens, including the Colour Pen Set and Erasable Pen Set.

The Colour Pen Set contains permanent ink pens suitable for drawing and tracing on paper, while the Erasable Pens are ideal for drawing seam allowances or creating temporary markings on fabric.

Compatible Pens

• Brother ScanNCut Colour Pen Set
• Brother ScanNCut Erasable Pen Set

Incompatible Pens

• All other pen types are not compatible.

How to use the Pen Holder

1. Open the Pen Holder, locate the release button on the back, and push it gently to open the top part.
   
2. Remove the cap from the desired ScanNCut pen and insert it into the pen holder  with the tip of the pen inserted first.
   
3. Ensure the pen is fully inserted with the tip visible at the front.
   
4. Close the Pen Holder by gently  pressing the top part of the pen holder down until it clicks into place.
   
5. Turn off the ScanNCut machine, remove the blade holder, insert the pen holder into the carriage, and lock it in place.
6. Turn on the ScanNCut machine and proceed with drawing. Adjust pen pressure according to your material. Refer to your manual.

Universal Pen Holder

The universal pen holder is an optional accessory that allows you to use various cylindrical pens and writing instruments with your ScanNCut machine.

You can use your favourite felt-tip pens, markers and more to add a personal touch to your projects.

The Universal Pen Holder can hold pens with a diameter between 9.6mm and 11.4mm, and with a minimum length of 70mm. Pens need to have a smooth and even thickness in the area that is shaded grey in the image below. (Areas 1 and 2 shown in the image don't need to be the same thickness).

Compatible Pen Examples

• Pilot Frixion Colour Erasable Markers
• Tombow Dual Brush Pens
• Pentel Energel (retractable and lid style)
• Uniball Signo Retractable
• Pilot Pop'lol Gel Pens
• Pigma Micron Pens
• Sakura Gelly Roll
• Pilot Lettering Pen
• Faber-Castell PITT Artist Pen

Incompatible Pen Examples

• Brother ScanNCut Colour Pen Set
• Brother ScanNCut Erasable Pen Set
• Crayons
• Pencils
• Fountain Pens
• Faber Castell Grip Finepen
• Zebra Mildliner
• Paper Mate Flair Medium
• Staedtler Triplus Fineliner
• Sharpie Fine Point
• Uniball Signo
• Pens with an extruding part such as a clip, may not fit in the pen holder.
• Small Barrel Pens (refer to the small barrel pen holder)

How to use the Universal Pen Holder

Small Barrel Pen Holder

The Small Barrel Pen Holder is an optional accessory that allows you to use smaller cylindrical pens and writing instruments with your ScanNCut machine. It is very similar to the universal pen holder but has been designed to be used with pens that have a smaller diameter, enabling you to use your favourite gel pens, fine liners, and more to create colourful and detailed projects.

The Small Barrel Pen Holder can hold pens with a diameter between 7.8mm and 9.6mm, and a minimum length of 70mm. Pens need to have a smooth and even thickness in the area that is shaded grey in the image below. (Areas 1 and 2 shown in the image don't need to be the same thickness).

Compatible Pen Examples

• Pilot Frixion Fineliner Erasable Pens
• Heat Transfer Markers
• Sakura Gelly Roll
• Pilot Lettering Pen
• Pigma Micron Pens
• Staedtler Pigment Liner 1.0

Incompatible Pen Examples

• Brother ScanNCut Colour Pen Set
• Brother ScanNCut Erasable Pen Set
• Crayons
• Pencils
• Fountain Pens
• Uniball Signo
• Faber-Castell PITT Artist Pen
• Pens with an extruding part such as a clip, may not fit in the pen holder.

How to use the Small Barrel Pen Holder

The process of using the small barrel pen holder is the same as the universal pen holder.

Calligraphy Pen Holder

The calligraphy pen holder comes included in the Calligraphy Kit for ScanNCut SDX, available as an optional accessory to allow you to incorporate calligraphy and intricate writing styles with your ScanNCut machine.

The Calligraphy Kit for ScanNCut SDX does include 3 calligraphy pens to get you started with other Calligraphy Pen Sets available in a variety of colours. You can also try using other calligraphy markers in the calligraphy pen holder, provided they have either a 2mm or a 3.5mm tip.

Compatible Pen Examples

• Calligraphy Basic Pen Set
• Calligraphy Essential Pen Set
• Calligraphy Tropical Pen Set
• Other selected 2mm or 3.5mm tipped calligraphy marker pens.

Incompatible Pens

• All other pen types are not compatible.

How to use the Calligraphy Pen Holder

(The setting for the pen tip angle differs depending on the calligraphy font and pen tip size that will be used. Please refer to manual for more information)

In conclusion, the range of pen holders available for the Brother ScanNCut each holds a distinct place in your craft room, offering unique features and capabilities.

Ultimately, the pen holder you choose will be influenced by the type of pen you wish to use and the specific demands of your projects.

Helpful Tools:

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Patchwork/Quilting Rulers:

In this article, we've curated a list of our 10 favourite Google Fonts that are perfect for vinyl cutting machines. From sleek and modern to playful and elegant, these fonts are sure to elevate your projects to new heights. Once you have found the font for you, simply follow our instructions on how to install Google Fonts into Brother's CanvasWorkspace to enhance your creative projects.

Berkshire Swash

Berkshire Swash brings a touch of vintage elegance to your vinyl creations. Its decorative swashes add flair to any project.

Download font →

Featured Project: Milk Bottle Herb Tags

Do you love gardening and want a creative way to label your herbs? Turn old milk bottles into cute and unique herb tags with a cutting machine like the ScanNcut or Cricut, and some adhesive vinyl. You will reuse items that could have been trash, and make your garden more stylish!
Learn More

Luckiest Guy

This bold and eye-catching font adds a lively and playful touch to your vinyl creations. Its bold, rounded letters make it a standout choice for attention-grabbing designs.

Download font →

Saira Stencil One

Saira Stencil One brings a bold and impactful look to your vinyl cutting projects. Its stencil-inspired design is perfect for creating strong, attention-grabbing lettering.

Download font →

Lobster

Lobster is a versatile font for projects that demand bold, eye-catching text. Its unique curves and thickness make a statement in any design.

Download font →

Featured Project: Personalised Aprons

Discover the art of personalised crafting with our personalised aprons project! Elevate your kitchen style and create unique, one-of-a-kind aprons that reflect your personality or make for heartfelt gifts.
Learn More

Pacifico

Pacifico adds a casual and friendly vibe to your vinyl projects. Perfect for personalising items or creating designs with a laid-back, handcrafted feel.

Download font →

M PLUS Rounded 1c

M PLUS Rounded 1c offers a modern and rounded design, making it suitable for contemporary vinyl cutting projects. Its simplicity and clarity make it versatile.

Download font →

Featured Project: Alphabet Fridge Magnets

Transform your outdated calendar fridge magnets into awesome alphabet magnets with the help of your cutting machine! This fun and easy DIY project lets you craft colourful and quirky letters that will brighten up your fridge, locker, or any other magnetic surface.
Learn More

Playfair Display

For those seeking a touch of sophistication, Playfair Display's timeless serifs bring an element of elegance, making it suitable for formal or upscale projects.

Download font →

Oleo Script

Oleo Script adds a touch of warmth and expressiveness to your vinyl projects. Its handwritten style is perfect for creating personalised and heartfelt designs.

Download font →

Bubblegum Sans

Bubblegum Sans combines playfulness with a modern touch, making it an excellent choice for lively and contemporary vinyl designs.

Download font →

Truculenta

This elegant and versatile script brings an air of sophistication to your vinyl projects with its graceful script. Ideal for adding an quirky touch to personalised items.

Download font →

Choosing the right font is a crucial step in ensuring your vinyl cutting projects stand out. The Google Fonts mentioned above offer a diverse range of styles, catering to various preferences and design needs. Experiment with these fonts to add a unique and personalised touch to your creations, making your vinyl cutting endeavours truly exceptional. Now you are ready to go ahead and install the Google Fonts into Brother's CanvasWorkspace to enhance your creative projects.

With just a few tools, we teach you how to make a variety of useful craft products. Use your washaway scraps to make goop, also known as starch, which can be used to stiffen fabric and shape fabric into unique forms. Washaway scraps can also be sewn together to make large pieces of washaway for your projects in the hoop. Or, you can also use your loose thread scraps in combination with washaway scraps and free motion quilting to make your own thread fabric. Learn how you can turn your washaway offcuts into beautiful and useful creations.

Tools required:

• Washaway offcuts
• Embroidery Hoop
• 1 x glass jar (large)
• 1 x glass jar (medium)
• Warm water
• Fabric (that requires starch/stiffening)
• Coat hanger
• Sewing machine

In this video, Rachael shows you how to use those thread leftovers to create your own unique fabric that you can use for other projects. It's a great way to repurpose scraps and reduce waste, while also making something new and creative. Using a variety of thread scraps in all different colours and an array of products like tulle, washaway, and more, we demonstrate how simple it is to turn those remnants into something fabulous! Watch the video below and get inspired to try it yourself!

Tools required:

• A bobbin wound with water-soluble thread
• Thread remnants
• Hemingworth thread
• A bobbin wound with matching thread
• Warm water with a dash of dishwashing liquid
• Bowl
• Towel

Whether you prefer the flexibility of the web interface or the powerful features of the desktop app, understanding the distinctions will help you choose the right CanvasWorkspace version for your artistic endeavors. Explore this article to find out which option suits your crafting needs best.

Let's take a deeper dive into the differences between the two:

To get started, we'll be using the cupcake design available in our FREE SVG pack 1. This design will serve as the perfect artwork for showcasing your newfound layering skills. It is also important to understand that not all SVGs can be split into different colours, this is due to the way the designer of the SVG has saved it and is often intentional to stop people altering the file. We will cover how to check to see if the SVG has layers during this tutorial which is an indication that it can be split into multiple colours. Learn how to access your downloads from your Echidna account.

Let's get started. Firstly we want to open a new project in the desktop version of CanvasWorkspace. Find out the difference between the desktop and web version of CanvasWorkspace.

Then we want to import the cupcake SVG. Do this by clicking on the SVG symbol located in the left menu and select the desired SVG from your computer.

The SVG will now be placed in the top left corner of the project artboard.

Next we want to check that the design does have layers, meaning it is possible for us to split it into different colours. Do this by clicking on the layers icon on the right side of the screen.

If you see multiple layers then this means that it is possible to create this particular design with multiple colours. If you only see one layer then unfortunately that design cannot be split into different colours.

Our cupcake design has 5 layers, which means we can create this design so that it is split into 5 different colours. To achieve this we essentially want to duplicate the design 5 times and add registration marks to ensure that the multiple layers of vinyl will align perfectly to create the whole image again.

Let’s start by highlighting the whole design and moving it 1” down and 1” to the right to make room for our registration marks. Do this by clicking using your mouse in the top left corner and dragging your mouse over the design to the bottom right. Once the design is highlighted click anywhere within the design and drag it using your mouse or move it using the arrow keys on your keyboard.

We now need to add a couple of small shapes to the design as our registration marks. We prefer to use triangles as there are 3 points to line up which means you are less likely to get the direction of your layers mixed up than say if you were using a circle. To add a triangle click on the shapes icon from the left menu.

Scroll down and find the triangle shape and click on it to place it on the project artboard.

Next, we want to make the triangle smaller by clicking on the bottom right node and dragging it towards the top left.

Duplicate the shape by selecting the triangle and either right click and copy and then right click and paste or Ctrl+C and Ctrl+V on your keyboard. We will duplicate 3 times so that we end up with 4 triangles for this particular design. You will find the more you get used to this process the more comfortable you will be using less triangles.

Position the triangles in each corner of the design making sure they sit outside of the design area.

Before splitting our design we are going to assign the colour to each element of our design to match the colour of the vinyl we intend to cut. This will make it easier for us to identify the different layers. Simply click on each shape and select the colour via the paint bucket icon in the top menu.

Highlight all layers, right click and group the layers together.

Duplicate the grouped layers 5 times as we will be having 5 different colours. Again you can do this by either right clicking and selecting copy and then right clicking and selecting paste or Ctrl+C and Ctrl+V on your keyboard.

Spread these out across the artboard. The grouped layers should not overlap.

We now want to go through each grouped object and delete the excess element so each grouped object only contains one unique colour. To do this, right click on the first grouped item and click ungroup.

The objects in this group will now be ungrouped.

Delete the excess objects so in this case we want to delete the pink, green, blue and grey layers so that only the yellow star remains.

Repeat this for all grouped objects until they all only have the single colour object remaining.

If you wish, you can change the colour of the registration marks to match the colour of the shape and regroup each section. Remember to select all objects, right click and group.

Now we are ready to take the design to the machine for cutting. Save it as an .FCM file and put it on a USB to insert into your machine or send it via Wi-Fi (SDX models).

Place 5 pieces of vinyl in your chosen colours onto your standard machine mat, making sure it is large enough for the required design. Ensure the media is stuck to the mat the correct way up, using a brayer/roller may be helpful.

Load the .FCM file you created in CanvasWorkspace. If you have a Brother ScanNCut do a quick scan of your mat to make sure each grouped object is positioned correctly on top of the right coloured vinyl.

Adjust your machine settings to be suitable for cutting vinyl. For ScanNCut users you will need to enable the half cut option.

Tip: We suggest doing a test cut to ensure you have your settings correct for the medium you are using. Cutting a small hole in the corner of your mat is a lot less upsetting than cutting a large design straight through your mat.

Proceed with cutting the design. Once the cutting is complete, unload the mat from the machine and gently peel the vinyl sheets off.

Starting from one corner of the vinyl and peel back the coloured layer away from the backing sheet. This is also known as weeding. Continue weeding all of the designs until you are left with the object and the 4 registration triangles on each backing sheet.

To start we want to set aside the back layer of the design. Note: This particular design doesn't have a back as no layer touches or overlaps so instead we are going to start at the bottom shape and work our way up.

Bring the second shape from the bottom into view and cut a piece of transfer tape large enough to cover your design. Peel off the grid side of the transfer tape and place the transfer tape over the cut-out vinyl ensuring all the vinyl is covered. Gently rub the transfer tape whilst on the vinyl. A scraper can be helpful when doing this.

Flip the vinyl over and gently start peeling off the sticker backing. The sticker should lift off with the tape. If not, lay the tape down again and press firmly again. You want your design to stick to the tape so you may need to give it a rub as you go.

This then exposes the adhesive side of the sticker of the transfer tape. Place the revealed design on top of the bottom layer of vinyl lining up the 2 triangles. In this case we have lined up the bottom 2 triangles but you can line up any 2 triangles.

Give the design a rub with the vinyl scraper to help the adhesive of the transfer tape stick.

Gently peel back the transfer tape to reveal the 2 layers of vinyl perfectly lined up.

Using the same piece of transfer tape, repeat the same steps with the remaining colours, making sure to order them from back first to the front last until you have your completed design.

Trim the corners with the registration triangles off so that these are not transferred to your final medium.

Place the transfer tape over the cut-out vinyl ensuring all the vinyl is covered. Gently rub the transfer paper whilst on the vinyl. Flip over the design and gently start peeling off the sticker backing. The sticker should lift off with the tape. If not, lay the tape down again and press firmly again. You want your design to stick to the tape so you may need to give it a rub as you go.

This then exposes the adhesive side of the sticker. Quickly move the sticker to the desired surface and place where desired. Press over the sticker very firmly to force the adhesive to tack.

The sticker’s own adhesive is much stronger than the masking tape or transfer paper, so once the sticker is applied the tape can be peeled away to reveal the applied sticker.

And you're done, you have successfully layered adhesive vinyl.

Choosing the correct bobbin style and type is very important as using the wrong one can cause damage to your machine. This article is meant as a general guide to the three most common bobbin styles. As always, it’s best to refer to your machine manual or manufacturer for information pertaining to your specific machine. Alternatively, you can call us with your machine model and we can help.

The three most common bobbin sizes in the home and domestic sewing industry are:

• A Style
• L Style
• M Style

The bobbin’s style is determined by its dimensions (height and diameter). In some cases, these dimensions are also represented by a letter, which is where we get names like A Style, L Style, and M Style.

What is the difference between A, L, and M Style bobbins?

• A style bobbins are most commonly used in domestic machines, and are also called “Class 15” and “SA156”. Many modern drop-in bobbin machines take A Style bobbins and they are also used in a wide range of home sewing machines with a push-in style bobbin case.
• L style bobbins are the smallest of the three, and are commonly used in commercial machines such as multi-needle embroidery machines and many industrial straight stitch sewing machines.
• M style bobbins are the largest of the three, and are commonly used in long-arm quilting machines. This bobbin holds nearly double the amount of thread of an L Style bobbin.

Now that you know all about bobbin styles, let's go over Bobbin Types

Bobbin “type” here refers to what the bobbin is made out of, like plastic or metal. Choosing the right bobbin type is as important as finding the right bobbin style. For example, most front-loading industrial machines are compatible with magnetic and sideless bobbins.

It is best practice to use the same bobbin type that came with your machine, unless otherwise specified by the manufacturer. This means that if your machine came with plastic bobbins, you should use plastic bobbins. You may find the right bobbin style (A style, L style, M Style) in plastic, metal, etc, but that doesn’t mean they’re interchangeable! You may also find that even if your machine does accept multiple bobbin types, your machine may not like them all equally. It’s a good idea to pay close attention to your machine to get a feel for when it’s not liking something or working as best as it can be.

Some bobbin types include:

Plastic bobbins: the sides and the centre coil are made of plastic. Clear plastic makes it easier to see the colour of your thread and is generally cheaper than purchasing metal alternatives. We don’t recommend re-using plastic pre-wound bobbins as they are designed for single use and are not generally suitable for rewinding.

Magnetic-sided bobbins: the sides of the bobbin are fitted with magnets, which helps create consistent tension and consistent thread delivery. Magnetic sides also help prevent bobbin over-spin, which is when the bobbin continues to rotate after you’ve stopped stitching. Not to mention, they won’t fall out of your bobbin case! They’re compatible with most commercial-style embroidery machines.

Sideless bobbins: bobbins that are the centre coil only, with no flat sides encasing the thread. They’re very light, which reduces the risk of over-spin, and are compatible with most commercial-style embroidery machines. There may be a little more thread on them due to the fact that there are no sides.

You can listen to Gary talk about the difference between magnetic and sideless bobbins here →

Now, choosing the right bobbin for your machine is easy!

Your machine should come with bobbins. If you’re not sure how to identify what style they are, try taking a look at your machine’s guidebook or user manual. It may mention either the style or the dimensions.

Alternatively, you can always compare your bobbins to bobbins in-store, where you can also ask an expert who can help you identify the style. You can also contact us online or over the phone and let us know your machine brand and model, and we’ll help you. 

Using your bobbins

Once you know which bobbin your machine takes, follow the directions on your machine to insert your bobbin, and away you go! If you’re a sewist, you can wind your own bobbins with your sewing thread of choice. Just remember to always use a quality brand bobbin fill thread, and try matching it to the colour of your needle thread for consistency.

If you’re an embroiderer, you also have the option of purchasing pre-wound bobbins. Pre-wound bobbins are excellent because they save you time and are more likely to be evenly wound.

If you’re having issues between bobbin changes, tension may be the cause. Watch our video on checking your bobbin tension →

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