STITCHING GUIDELINES
When digitizing any file, keep these few basics in mind:
- The minimum safe size for a column stitch is 1.0mm. As you gain experience, you will be able to reduce the minimum to about .8mm and still end up with a satisfactory column.
- The maximum safe size for a column stitch is 8.0mm to 10.0mm.
- Anything less than .6mm (.25″) is considered small lettering.
- Create a design with the fewest trims/color changes to maximize machine efficiency.
- Start with larger areas and work toward smaller areas.
- On difficult fabrics, it may be necessary to break up a design into a series of sections to ensure proper registration.
- For hats, work from the center out and, when possible, from the bottom up.
DIGITIZING TOOLS & STITCH TYPES
There are four main stitch types in embroidery: Manual, run, satin/column/steil, and fill.
Manual stitching is very random, and stitches are only placed where you click to enter points.
A run stitch is a series of stitches traveling in a linear form.
A satin stitch is column stitching. It is generally used for small shapes, borders, regular size lettering, etc.
A fill stitch is a series of run stitches formed together to fill a larger shape. Fills can be solid areas or have sections voided out.
Learn how to create a custom embroidery fill here.
