Profile of Melinda W. Dement
Melinda entered the field of monogramming and embroidery in 1980 with B&G Lieberman of Charlotte, NC. Sales, installation, training, and servicing of the Meistergram equipment and H-Square engraving systems was the beginning of the journey into the "world of embroidery".
After taking a couple of years to acquire a degree in Commercial Graphics, Melinda joined Macpherson Monogram in Greensboro, NC. There she was responsible for the team who created and supported "Style Paks" – the lettering and designs for the Barudan embroidery machines. Working with Barudan software specialists on R & D for future software products was also an intrical part of the work that she enjoyed.
In 1992, Melinda chose to be an "at-home/single parent" to her teenage daughter. DataMotif, Inc. was a digitizing firm specializing in applique programs largely for the University book store market.
1995 found a new partner in Life and business – and in spring of '96, Melinda and Jacques were married. Jacques, being an artist as well, learned the language of embroidery quite readily. The couples' talents combined opened a new world of possibilities.
1998 with the "Empty Nest" situation behind her, Melinda felt compelled to re-enter the public arena. She is now working with Compucon. From Dallas, Texas, she is training and supporting the Compucon line of digitizing software . This has been a fun way to share her love and excitement of this sophisticated technology combined with artistic endeavor. "The technology just keeps improving and our imaginations keep expanding", says Melinda. She can invision being the "Grandma Moses" of the embroidery world.
The types of digitizing equipment that Melinda has used are:
Barudan's BEAT; M-7000; LMPS; and BP-340; DataStitch' Stitchitizer; Melco's EDS-III
And Compucon's full line of digitizing and editing software.
Personal statement; "It is an honor to be sharing knowledge with those in this fascinating field of Embroidery. Much of the skills and tips of digitizers and embroiders have been acquired by the "Trial and Error" method due to the pioneering phase of the industry. How many times have I heard in conversation, "Oh, how I wish that there had been more teachers and materials as I was trying to learn!"
"This era of "Virtual Technology" is an incredible educational tool. Our intention is to aid you in learning some of the techniques and formulas of the trade. We believe that you will gain information that will help you to be productive and profitable in your chosen endeavor. We trust that you will honor the "One-Student-Per-ID#, and copy written course materials. Feel free to tell Friends and Neighbors about courses at Embroidery University!."