What Is Embroidery Digitizing and How Can You Select the Right Fabric for Your Design?

Embroidery machines have revolutionised the world of embroidery. But have you ever given it a thought that how these embroidery machines work? Well, there’s process behind it which is called the embroidery digitizing. In this process, the entire artwork is transformed into digital file which the embroidery machines use to stitch designs onto the fabric. The type of fabric used can impact the entire outcome of an embroidered project. In other words, it is important to choose the right fabric for embroidery digitizing.

When selecting fabric for an embroidery project, consider the following factors to achieve the best results:

For detailed designs, you must choose any stable fabric like cotton or linen that are capable of holding the stitches well and at the same time, if the design is simple or large then opt for fabrics like velvet or terry cloth that can be used to add texture and uniqueness.

While stretchy fabrics (e.g., spandex blends) require additional stabilization to keep the embroidery intact; use cutaway or no-show mesh stabilizers, non-stretch fabrics (e.g., denim or canvas) offer natural stability but may still need a lightweight stabilizer for best results.

For items that will be washed frequently, choose durable fabrics like polyester blends and ensure the stabilizer is wash-away or tear-away

Besides the fabric, you must also ensure that you are using the appropriate stabilizer as it can make a significant difference in the embroidery quality. Also, test the fabric and stabilizer combination before starting the final project.

If you are someone for whom sustainability is a priority, there are options of eco-friendly fabrics. These fabrics include organic cotton, hemp, and bamboo fabrics which are produced without harmful chemicals. Recycled fabrics made from post-consumer waste also help reduce environmental impact.

Embroidery comes in various styles, each with specific fabric preferences. For instance, traditional styles like cross-stitch often work best on even-weave fabrics, while free-form or contemporary embroidery can benefit from more organic and textured materials. When selecting a fabric, consider the style you want to achieve and choose materials that complement the technique and aesthetic of your embroidery.  

So, these are some of the points that you can keep in mind for choosing the right fabric for embroidery digitizing. We hope that this blog was informative and helped you gain a better understanding of how fabric choices can impact your embroidery outcomes. Happy stitching!