Oh boy. Did I ever make some whoopsies when I first started out! I dove in feet first without really understanding the concept of digitizing or machine embroidery, i.e. how things are stitched out, tension, sequencing etc etc etc and I could warn you to avoid doing that but, if I am honest, it’s probably more constructive if I tell what actually worked for me.
1. Start Simple. Hatch is very well organised to help the beginner enter and grow in skill levels. Both in terms of the four software options and also the way in which the toolboxes are presented on screen. By starting where you feel most comfortable, even if it is right at the very beginning, you have the chance to grow through a series of smaller achievements.
2. Read the online User Guide. Did I just hear a collective sigh of disappointment? Ha-ha! I don’t mean read the whole thing in one sitting! I just mean, if you are doing a new thing, read that bit BEFORE you do it. Hatch has it’s whole user manual online, along with a whole load of other learning resources so, grab your smart-phone or tablet, sit down with a cuppa and a biscuit and just take a look at the bit about what you are about to do. This will give you what you need, when you need it. Again, it’s all about hitting those mini-milestones.
3. Reach Out. Hatch has it’s own online community and there are also many independently run groups on the usual social media places so YOU ARE NOT ALONE! There is nothing more annoying than trying to achieve something but not being able to process the “right way” in your head. Thanks to the connected world that we now live in you can reach out and use the heads of many other folk who have likely done what you are trying to do, or can at least nudge you in the right direction for help.