Embroidery digitizing! Didn’t hear this word before and have no idea what things are involved in it? Well, you don’t have to worry about it as we got you covered with this detailed blog. It will have all the essential things you should know about embroidery digitizing and also when you are planning to get the service for your needs.
What Is Embroidery Digitizing?
Let’s start the discussion with the meaning and a good understanding about the embroidery digitizing. In easy words, it is a process in which the expert embroidery digitizer converts the artwork in a digital file with the help of software that enables the machine to know the path of the needle. You must know that the entire process is not fully automatic and it is more like an art form which has to be done correctly to get the desired results. Most of the embroidery machines have their own software that let them handle the function by reading the digitized file.
Different File Types To Know!
When you are about to get the embroidery digitizing, you have to be aware of the file type that you will need depending on the machine you are going to use for the work:
.exp: It is the embroidery file format for the Melco embroidery machines used for commercial purposes.
.dst: The preferred format for the Tajima embroidery machines for commercial use.
.jef: Janome embroidery machines for commercial purposes use this format.
.dsb: Barudan commercial machines utilize this file format.
.tap: Happy commercial embroidery machines use this embroidery file format.
.kwk: This embroidery file format is used by Brother commercial embroidery machines.
Basic Steps To Be Aware
When getting the embroidery digitizing from a professional company, you also need to have a know-how about the process. The basic steps involved in the step are:
Step 1
Uploading of the logo or design is done into the digitizing software.
Step 2
Setting the size of embroidery design
Step 3
Selection of the stitch type depending on the work.
Step 4
Selection of the stitch direction
Step 5
Choosing the thread colors of your embroidery
Step 6
Lastly, the transferring of the file into the embroidery machine.
Getting a better understanding about the design is very crucial. The placement, complexity, and size of the artwork should be considered in the process. Skilled digitizer will be considering the fabric vs thread point. It is essential to give embroidery stitch type for the specific areas by keeping the factors like type of fabric along with the push and pull of the garment. You must know that the directions and variables will be affecting the stitching outcomes, so it is essential to handle the job with good care.
Different Stitch Types
There are different stitch types which are part of the process to get the different textures, looks, and more. Every stitch type has a maximum stitch length that should be kept in mind. You also have to consider the push and pull along with the fabric type of the garment when you are about to select the stitch type.
The three common stitch types of machine embroidery are as follows:
Straight Stitch
It is a foundational stitch where the repetition of straight lines is done for creating the pattern. To get the thick lines, you have to repeat the straight stitch multiple times. Don’t forget that straight stitches are not only for the straight line, they can also be used by the curved shapes as well.
Satin Stitch
If there is a work that involves text embroidery, then satin stitch is the right choice. The longer length of the satin stitch will provide a shiny look that will be ideal for lettering. The max length of the stitch for the satin stitches will be 12.1mm.
Fill Stitch
It is also called a ceding stitch or tatami stitch. It is used for filling in the patterns as you can guess from the name. These stitches are using the alternating lines for giving a woven look to the embroidery. Note that 4mm is the maximum stitch length for this type of stitch.
How To Get Embroidery Digitizing?
Searching for a way to get the embroidery digitizing service from the best company? You can do the following things for the best selection:
1- Shortlist a few companies that are offering the relevant service you need.
2- Check out their work on their website or social media pages to get the designs or sample work they have done for their clients in the past.
3- Do read out the customer feedback on their websites or social media pages to get an idea about their work quality.
4- Inquire about customer support.
5- Compare the prices of two or three companies to make the final decision.
Hopefully, now you will have a broader idea about the various things that are part and you must have a basic knowledge about embroidery digitizing.