Frequently Asked Questions (and attempts to answer them):

The program stops working, or the AVG Virus checker reports a problem with pixeLoom - what do I do now?

An incompatability has come up with some anti-virus programs that prevents pixeLoom from running, with an error message that reports it was not installed properly. They detect the signature of a trojan horse in the pxLmUpgr.exe file, but be assured that it is a false positive. If you run into this, please let me know <sue @ pixeLoom.com> so I can get you an upgraded version.

How do I insert or delete ends or picks?

Position the cursor in the threading or treadling where you want to start inserting or deleting threads, then press the Insert or Delete key (holding down for repeated affect).

Can I maintain a palette of colors to work with for new drafts?

Absolutely. Once you have a palette filled in, select Color->Set Default Palette from the menu. Now all new drafts will have this palette of color swatches as a starting point. Remember, you can always import a palette from another WIF file with Color->Import->Color Palette.

How do I draw in a motif or profile draft?

Use the fabric analysis mode, which is set from Drawdown->Fabric Analysis. When in this mode, the Pencil tool can be used to draw on the grid in the drawdown portion of the draft--the threading, treadling and tieup will be filled in accordingly. Be sure to turn off this mode by toggling the menu selection (note the check mark next to Drawdown->Fabric Analysis) when you're done.

Its usually a good idea to leave plenty of space around your design (to avoid having to insert threads and picks at the origin). Then when its complete, use the Selection tool (the box on the toolbar) in the drawdown window to crop the draft down to just the portion you want to keep.

How do I repeat a color pattern?

The paint bucket can be used to drop in a solid, alternating, or double alternating color. For other color schemes, use the paint brush or pencil tool to fill in one or two repeats in the colorbar. Now you can copy and paste in the colorbar in the same way as in the threading or treadling grids. Just use the selection tool to define the portion of the colorbar that you want to copy, then use either the stamp tool or the Copy and Paste functions from the Edit menu (shortcuts Ctrl+C and Ctrl+V) and a floating window will popup that you'll be able to place anywhere else in that colorbar.

I've purchased the program, but it still seems to have an expiration date.

Once you enter your registration key from the back of the CD case (or from your email receipt), your serial number will show up properly and you won't be running the temporary version that will expire.

When you start up the program and get the "There are xx days left on this temporary key. Do you have a registration key to enter?" message, press Yes. Then enter the Name and Key exactly as provided to you ('0's can be entered either as numbers or letters).