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

โœ… 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.

โœ… 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:

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

โœ… What Embroidery Cannot Do Well

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

 

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

โœ… 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.

โœ… Best Logo Sizes

Typical embroidery sizes:

  • 5cmโ€“8cm small chest logo
  • 10cm ร— 10cm standard chest logo
  • 12โ€“15cm larger chest logo

Larger designs increase stitch count and cost.

โœ… Stitch Count Cost-Saving Tips

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

โœ… Colour Recommendations

Embroidery uses thread.
For best results:

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

โœ… What Happens If Your Artwork Isn’t Ready?

If your logo artwork file isn’t ready:
โœ… send what you have
โœ… we’ll advise if it can be digitised
โœ… we may recommend simplification
โœ… 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)
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