What Is Embroidery Digitizing?


Embroidery digitizing is the process of converting artwork into a stitch file that can be read by an embroidery machine and interpreted as different stitch types.

Embroidery digitizing basic steps

·   Understand required design size, fabric type, artwork and any special requirements

·   Prepare artwork for digitizing

·   Decide how the design will run on an embroidery machine from start to finish

·   Assign embroidery stitch types to specific areas while considering factors such as the fabric type and "push and pull" of the garment

·   Test run the design to see if adjustments to the digitizing are needed

Types of Embroidery

Embroidery can be classified on the basis of the level to which the quality of the base fabric is used in the design and by the placement of the stitches onto the fabric. There are three main categories as follows:

Free or surface embroidery: The designs are applied using decorative stitches on top of the underlying fabric rather than through the fabric.

Examples:

- Crewelwork – The designs are made using wool threads.

- Traditional Japanese and Chinese embroidery

Counted-thread embroidery: In this type, the embroiderer stitches over a predetermined number of threads in the foundation fabric. Mostly, the even-weave fabric is used as a base material such as embroidery canvas, Aida cloth or specially woven cotton and linen fabrics.

Examples:

- Assisi work – The background is filled with cross-stitch and the main motif of the design is left blank with an outline.

- Hard anger embroidery – Designs are made with white thread on white even-weave cloth. It is also called as white work.

- Blockwork

Needlepoint or canvas work: Threads are stitched through the canvas to create a dense pattern that completely covers the base material.

Examples:☺

- Bargello – The motifs are created by vertical stitches combined with the stepping of colors to form geometrical shapes and patterns such as flame zigzag, diamonds, etc.

- Berlin wool work – The designs are executed on the canvas using wool yarn. Traditional Berlin wool work contains many hues and colors that produce seemingly three-dimensional patterns.

Apart from these, there are various other types of embroidery. They reflect our cultural heritage and reflect the techniques and fabrics that were available in different regions at different times. Jacobean embroidery, cutwork, Chikankari, Phulkari, Zardozi, Kashidakari are some more techniques that have inspired generations of designers over the years.

 

Machine Embroidery Classifications

Machine embroidery can be classified into two categories based on machines and their functionalities:

- Free-motion machine embroidery: Designs are created using a simple zigzag sewing machine.

- Computerized machine embroidery: This uses computer-controlled machines that are specifically engineered for embroidery. E.g. applique and 3d puff embroidery.

Presently, most of the commercial embroidery work is done using embroidery digitizing software and computerized machines. One of its popular use is customized embroidery, in which the business logos and monograms are embroidered on all sorts of apparel.