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Programmable Stitch Patterns and Memory

Programmable Stitch Patterns

In my shop, programmable stitch patterns are the feature that splits basic machines from advanced ones. The machine stores the stitch data in memory. It recreates the pattern through the motor control system.

How Stitch Patterns Are Stored

Each stitch in a pattern uses four parts:
  • Stitch width (mm): How far the needle moves left-right
  • Stitch length (mm): How far the fabric feeds per stitch
  • Tension setting: The thread tension for that stitch
  • Needle position: Left, center, or right
I see the stitch computer read these parts from memory. It sends signals to two stepper motors. One moves the needle. One moves the fabric feed.

Memory Sizes

MachinePattern MemoryStitch StorageCPU
Janome Skyline S9200 built-in60 user-programmable16-bit
Brother Innov-is V3300 built-in70 user-programmable32-bit ARM
Juki HZL-F600225 built-in50 user-programmable16-bit

Buttonhole Types

TypeHow It WorksAccuracy
1-step sensorMachine measures button, sews both sidesBest results
4-stepYou sew each side by handGood, needs work
8-stepOlder, more work by handFair, takes time
The 1-step sensor buttonhole uses an optical sensor. It measures the button as you put it in. The control board finds the buttonhole length. It sews both sides with bar tacks.

Creating Custom Patterns

  1. Pick the custom pattern mode on the machine.
  2. Set the stitch width for the first stitch.
  3. Set the stitch length.
  4. Save the stitch in memory spot 1.
  5. Repeat for each stitch in the pattern.
  6. Name the pattern if the machine lets you name it.
If the machine has USB import, you can make patterns on a computer. Then upload them. The Brother Innov-is V3 supports PES and DST formats. The Sewing Machine Automation Guide covers all automation features including pattern programming. Can I Use Any Sewing Machine Needle? 130/705H vs 1 Reference: Brother Sewing Machine Repair Guide · Needle Systems Guide