Embroidery Digitizing 101

New to embroidery digitizing? This guide explains how artwork becomes stitches, what file types you’ll encounter, and why the digitizing process is key to clean, professional embroidery.

What Is Embroidery Digitizing?

Embroidery digitizing is the process of converting artwork like a company logo into stitches that an embroidery machine can read. This is done using specialized software to assign stitch types, direction, density, and color sequence. The result is a machine-ready file such as DST, PES, or EMB.

Why It’s More Than Just “Saving a File”

Digitizing is an art form. It requires understanding how thread and fabric interact. A well-digitized design ensures smooth outlines, proper density, and minimal thread breaks. Poor digitizing can cause puckering, uneven fill, or thread jams.

  • Proper underlay and density create stability
  • Correct stitch direction enhances shine and flow
  • Push-pull compensation keeps outlines aligned
  • Layering order affects overall stitch quality

Common File Types You’ll Encounter

  • EMB – Editable master file (Wilcom / Hatch)
  • OFM – Editable Melco format
  • DST – Universal machine format for Tajima machines
  • PES – Common for Brother and Babylock machines
  • EXP, JEF, VP3 – Other machine formats

Digitizing Workflow Overview

  1. Import your artwork (preferably vector)
  2. Assign stitch types (satin, fill, run)
  3. Set underlay, density, and pull compensation
  4. Define color order and trimming points
  5. Export to machine formats (DST, PES, etc.)

Pro Tip: Always save your editable EMB or OFM file before exporting stitch only formats. This allows you to make changes later without re-digitizing from scratch.

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