0422 442 029
Home
>
Custom Embroidery
>
EMBROIDERY ARTWORK GUIDELINES

Embroidery Artwork Guidelines (File Requirements + Stitch Count Tips)

Embroidery uses thread stitches, not ink. That means your logo must be prepared differently than printed artwork.

This page explains:
✅ best file formats
✅ minimum text and detail rules
✅ what embroidery can and cannot stitch
✅ how to reduce stitch count (lower cost)
✅ digitising requirements

✅ Best File Formats for Embroidery

Preferred formats:

  • EMB
  • DST

 

Other formats accepted:

  • PNG
  • JPG

 

However, PNG and JPG files may require artwork cleanup before digitising. Extra charges apply to get these converted to the stitch count required.

✅ How Embroidery Digitising Works

Digitising converts your logo into a stitch file. This file tells the embroidery machine:

  • Stitch direction
  • Stitch density
  • Thread changes
  • Fill patterns

Digitising is usually:

  • ✅ A one-time cost per logo
  • ✅ Required for new designs
  • ✅ Reused for future reorders (unless the artwork changes)

✅ What Embroidery Cannot Do Well

Embroidery is not suited to:
❌ photos
❌ gradients
❌ tiny text
❌ ultra-fine line work
❌ shading and transparency

 

If your logo contains these above, we may recommend:
✅ simplifying your artwork
✅ using DTF or DTG instead

✅ Minimum Text & Detail Guidelines

For best results:

  • Avoid text smaller than 5mm tall
  • Avoid ultra-thin lines (below 1mm)
  • Simplify small icons or details

Embroidery needs stitch width space to hold shape.

✅ Best Logo Sizes

Typical embroidery sizes:

  • 5cm–8cm small chest logo
  • 10cm × 10cm standard chest logo
  • 12–15cm larger chest logo

Larger designs increase stitch count and cost.

✅ Stitch Count Cost-Saving Tips

To reduce cost:
✅ keep logo size around 10cm × 10cm
✅ avoid complex fills and tiny details
✅ limit colours where possible
✅ avoid large back embroidery
✅ use one position only

✅ Colour Recommendations

Embroidery uses thread.
For best results:

  • Stick to brand colours where possible
  • Note thread colours may be matched to the closest available

✅ What Happens If Your Artwork Isn’t Ready?

If your logo artwork file isn’t ready:
✅ send what you have
✅ we’ll advise if it can be digitised
✅ we may recommend simplification
✅ we can provide file cleanup if needed at a small extra charge

Useful links

  • embroidery.md
  • embroidery-pricing.md
  • how-to-order-embroidery.md
  • printing-methods.md
  • dtf-printing.md (for full colour alternative)
Search
Your cart is empty
Search

Select Currency

{CC} - {CN}
Cancel