I've only been embroidering for a few years, but early on decided I wanted to create my own designs using my own artwork. My machine came with IQ Designer that does quite a bit including being able to scan in designs, but I wanted even more control so bought Floriani's Total Control U. I also bought Sketch to Stitch which is software that will convert line drawings to embroidery. I have a lot of pencil drawings that I'm going to convert so I can stitch them out.