What is Digitizing?

This is a question I get asked quite a bit and understandably many people do not know much about it. Digitizing is the art of converting a logo or design into a data format that embroidery machines understand. It is a popular misconception that since embroidery machines are computerized that all the embroiderer has to do is scan an image and the computer will do the rest. Unfortunately, it's not like "Weird Science" where you simply input images and PRESTO, there it is! Unlike screen printing, what you see on paper or screen is not what you will always get. Every detail of the design needs to be traced by the digitizer and then the correct type of stitching needs to be applied in order to create beautiful embroidery. Some digitizers are better than others which explains why the same logo can come out looking entirely different.

Here are a few key things to know to make sure your design will be digitized at its best:

1) Provide the digitizer/embroiderer a high resolution image of your design. Vector files such as Adobe Illustrator and eps files work the best but a high resolution jpeg (300 dpi) will work just fine too. Remember (GIGO, Garbage In, Garbage Out). If you provide a low quality design, it is highly likely you will end up with low quality embroidery.

2) Let the embroiderer know what you plan to embroider and what size you want it to be. A jacket back logo vs. a left chest logo will need to be digitized differently. The type of material the logo will be embroidered on will also determine how the design will be digitized.

3) The digitizing fee is based on complexity.

4) Digitizing requires specialized software and is not something anyone can do using Photoshop. A Digitized file is very different from a Digital file.

5) Once you have your design digitized, you can use the file over and over without paying the digitizing fee again unless major edits are required.

Hopefully, this bit of information provides some clarification and gives you a greater appreciation of the art of digitizing. Happy stitching!