How to Import and Combine Artwork into an Existing Design

While the “Open” function is used to start a project from a single file, the Import function is a powerful tool for adding and combining multiple artwork sources into your currently active design. This is the ideal method for creating complex compositions that merge different file types, such as existing embroidery designs, vector or bitmap images, and your own saved DRAWings (.DRAW) projects.

This guide will walk you through the different ways to import artwork into your workspace.

Method 1: Importing Using the “From file” Option

This is the most common method for adding existing digital files to your project.

1. Ensure a Design is Open: You must have a design loaded in the workspace. This can be a new, empty design (File > New) or any project you have previously opened.
2. Locate the “From file” Button: On the standard toolbar, find and click the From file button.![Image placeholder for the ‘From file’ button on the toolbar]
3. Browse and Select Your Artwork: A browse window, similar to the “Open” dialog, will appear. Navigate to the location of your artwork, select the file you wish to import, and click Open. You can select:
   • Embroidery files (e.g., .dst, .pes)
   • Vector artwork files (e.g., .ai, .svg, .cmx)
   • Bitmap image files (e.g., .jpg, .png, .bmp)
   • DRAWings project files (.DRAW)
4. Combine Multiple Sources: The selected artwork will be placed into your current design. You can repeat this process as many times as needed to combine various artwork sources into a single, unified design.

Useful Tip: The “From file” command can also be accessed from the main menu by navigating to File > Import > From file….

Method 2: Importing Directly from a Scanner or Camera

If you have physical artwork you want to use, you can import it directly from a connected TWAIN-compatible device.

1. Navigate to the Import Menu: Go to the main menu and click on File > Import.
2. Select Your Device: From the submenu, choose the option to acquire an image from your connected scanner or camera.
3. Capture the Image: Your device’s software will launch. Follow its on-screen prompts to scan or capture the image. Once complete, the captured image will be imported directly into your DRAWings workspace as a bitmap image.

Important Note on Importing Bitmap Images

Whenever you import a bitmap image (either from a file, scanner, or camera), a dialog box will appear prompting you to select how the software should handle the image (e.g., reduce colors, resize).