Question on In The Hoop pencil toppers...

[LGR 20]

I am wanting to design a file for pencil toppers, but have not sewn one yet, and have seen conflicting information from people.  Maybe someone can clarify this for me, but as I understand it....  Please correct or clarify this for me?

There would be 3 files, one for a front dieline, one for a back dieline, and the actual design file.  The two dieline files would be the same size - slightly larger than the design. One for the front material, and one for the back material.  The front dieline and design could be sewn all the way around the design, but when you do the back dieline file - you need to leave it open at the bottom for a pencil...

Does that sound about right, or am I all goofed up on this?  Thanks.

[diver361 6,484]

Based on your description, it seems like you need three files to design a pencil topper: a front dieline file, a back dieline file, and an actual design file. The two dieline files would be the same size and slightly larger than the design file. One file would be for the front material and the other for the back material. You can sew the front dieline and design all the way around, but for the back dieline file, you need to leave an opening at the bottom for the pencil.

I hope this clears up any confusion you had about the method for designing pencil topper files.

[Jasondrups 0]

Thanks Phil work fine your suggestion
Andreseloy


ps: still there is an area that i have no good success trying with:
a ctrlb
bhold 4 or 5 key, some advice?

[Frankmut 0]

I know that scale rulers smaller than "N" scale are not produced. So I am looking for someone who can make or direct me to were I can fine a scale ruler for "Z" 1/220 scale and one for 1/350 scale. I have a few models ships in the 1/350 scale I would like to reproduce into the 1/96 scale for R/C power. Thanks mike

[diver361 6,484]

Hi there! You're actually on the right track, and it's great that you're thinking through the structure of your pencil topper files before stitching. Let me break it down and clarify each step for you:

Pencil Topper Embroidery File Breakdown

1. Front Dieline File: Used to create a placement line on stabilizer for the front fabric or vinyl. This dieline defines the exact shape and size, and it should match the back dieline in size.
2. Back Dieline File: Same shape as the front dieline. It’s used to cut the backing fabric or vinyl to match. However, this dieline is not stitched until the end — and you leave the bottom open so the pencil can slide in.
3. Design File (Main Embroidery File):
   • Starts by stitching the front dieline onto the stabilizer.
   • Place and tack down your front fabric.
   • Run the embroidery design (any decorative elements, text, face, etc.).
   • Place the back fabric behind the hoop (use spray adhesive or tape).
   • Final stitch-out tacks down front and back together — but leaves the bottom part unstitched to create an opening for the pencil.

 Important Tips

• Make sure the dielines are slightly larger than the design to allow space for stitching.
• Use a knockdown stitch or a small offset if you're using fluffy or thick materials like felt or vinyl.
• Do a test stitch before selling or gifting — even if you have the dielines perfect, material behavior can vary.

So yes, your understanding is mostly correct — the key detail is making sure the back piece is attached only at the top and sides so there's room for the pencil to slide in.

Good luck with your design! Let us know how your first one turns out.