|
Digitizing
is the process of converting artwork into a stitch file that can
be read by an embroidery machine.
Preparing
Artwork for Embroidery Digitizing
The
first step in digitizing is
editing or
modifying the artwork in a graphics program. Then, the
file is opened in digitizing software where it is used as a
template for creating the stitch file. The digitizer must decide
the sequence of stitches from start to finish which affects how
an embroidered design will "lie" and how long the design will run on the
machine during the embroidery process.
Assigning
Stitch Types/Push and Pull
The digitizer assigns stitch types to each section of the
design based on what stitches will best represent the artwork.
First, an underlay is added to stabilize the fabric, lay
down the nap of the fabric and add density
to the design. There are only three basic stitch types (run,
satin and fill) but there are variations of each of these.
Fill stitches are used to cover large areas, but,
the digitizer must decide what type of fill stitch to use, the
direction and where it should start and stop. A design may
move while being embroidered which will cause some stitches to
shift. This can occur when using bulky fabrics, long
stitches, large areas of thread and a tight bobbin thread.
The digitizer must account for the possible effects of push and
pull on a design and make adjustments to compensate. He/she must also consider
what type of fabric the design will be embroidered on, the
stitching order and set trim commands. Designs that were
digitized for denim won't look as good
when stitched onto polar fleece where the stitches sink into
the fabric.
Embroidery Sew-Out & Design Testing
After a design is digitized to an embroidery format, it is
tested to see how it stitches out. Any imperfections are
fixed and it is tested again. A digitizer is a highly
skilled artist who has honed his/her craft through many years of
experience. While some designs are fairly easy to digitize, those with
fine detail, small text and lots of color changes require more
set-up time. Digitizing is a careful process that requires time
and experience to be performed correctly. The digitizer must
know how the stitches he sees in his embroidery software will
embroider on different fabrics. A well digitized design will
enhance your garment, so it is important to have an embroiderer
who provides quality digitizing.
Here's an example:
 |
 |
|
Original drawing |
Digitized design |
|
