Digitization

What is Digitization for Embroidery

Digitizing for Embroidery is a multi-step process requiring the involvement of several computer applications as well as experienced technicians. It begins with a piece of art. This can include hand-drawn as well as existing electronic files. The process of digitizing has several goals on the way to a beautiful reproduction. Among those are:

Review for preparation, Editing, Pathing, Thread Selection, Stitch types and a Stitch file.

 All artwork is reviewed before beginning embroidery. This step, performed by an embroidery specialist, will determine if the art is ready for digitizing as-is or if it will require editing in order to deliver excellent results.

Is Editing of My Artwork Required when Digitizing 

In some cases, Editing parts of the artwork must be done to prepare for embroidery: Small text may need to be enlarged; Fine details may need to be made heavier or eliminated. Upon completion of any edits to graphics, the file is reviewed in a Stitch application.

Pathing is essentially the map we produce which determines the order in which stitching occurs. Done correctly, Pathing will produce an efficient run-time (maintaining cost) and ensure quality by avoiding areas where stitching could be too dense (causing lumps) or too sparse (causing gaps). Proper Pathing allows for good coverage as well as the desired amount of flexibility. Part of the final output of Pathing is a Stitch File. This file takes the stitching order into account and determines the direction of the stitch as well as the Stitch type. Unlike hand-embroidery, production embroidery uses 3 Stitch types: Run, Satin and Fill. There are variations on each of these and the Pathing file determines the direction of stitch as well as start and stop points.

Thread color and type is selected by our in-house design staff. The goal is to provide the closest possible reproduction of original designs.

In some cases, before an embroidered piece is put into production, the customer will receive a sample, referred to as a Sew-out. This sample may be applied to an actual piece of apparel but is more commonly applied to a small piece of fabric. Once a design and Sew-out are approved, multiple pieces will be produced at once. Minor variations are expected.

Depending on factors like, stitch density, and fabric being embroidered, Push and Pull must be taken into account. While embroidery is in-progress, fabrics can flex. At Rankin Textile Printing, our designers take these factors into account and adjust accordingly.

Regardless of the route needed to achieve your desired results, an experienced Rankin Textile Specialist will be here to help you every step of the way.