How do you digitize a name or lettering for machine embroidery?

What is the difference between a computer font and an embroidery font?

A computer font (TTF or OTF) describes the outline of each letter. An embroidery font describes how to sew each letter: satin columns with direction, sequence and the connections between letters. That is why older software required buying pre-digitized "alphabets", expensive and few in number.

Current software, including Meus Bordados, does the conversion on the fly: you pick any TTF or OTF font (from the library, from your computer or from a file) and the program turns the outline into satin columns along each stroke. The quality depends on the font you choose and the size you use, which is what this article is about.

Which fonts should you choose for embroidered names?

Not every font that looks good on screen looks good in thread. Use these criteria:

• Even stroke width: fonts with similar thickness throughout the letter (sans serifs and "thick brush" scripts) stitch better than high-contrast fonts, where the thin strokes vanish.
• No tiny details: thin serifs, small counters in "e" and "a", and flourishes close up at small sizes.
• Connected letters (scripts): sew with fewer trims because one letter flows into the next. Great for names on towels and baby items.
• Uppercase: readable at smaller sizes than the equivalent lowercase.
• License: fonts that are free for personal use cannot be used on products you sell. Use open-licensed fonts (such as those under the SIL Open Font License) or fonts bought with a commercial license. The Meus Bordados library ships fonts cleared for use.

Tip: Build a set of 6 to 10 tested fonts, stitch the word "Name" at 10, 15 and 25 mm (0.4, 0.6 and 1 in) in each, and keep the sample. Showing a real stitched sample closes the sale and avoids rework.

What is the minimum height for embroidered letters?

In Meus Bordados, Height runs from 3 to 200 mm. But remember: under 5 mm, regular 40-weight thread cannot keep up; the fix is 60-weight thread and a fine needle, which not every machine handles.

Step by step: from the name to the machine file

1. Open the editor, click New and pick the Text tool. Click the canvas and type the name in the Text field. For two lines (first and last name), press Enter.
2. Click the font button and choose: From server (library), Computer fonts (installed fonts; Chrome and Edge only) or TTF/OTF file. See Text and fonts.
3. Set the Height in mm. If the name is too long for the space, reduce Width to 90 or 85 percent instead of lowering the height.
4. Adjust letter Spacing. In satin, letters look bolder than on screen; slightly wider spacing (0.5 to 1 mm) keeps the name readable.
5. Keep the stitch type Satin (by stroke). Only switch to Fill for very large letters or to Running-stitch outline for a "sketched" effect.
6. Pick the thread color from the palette and the machine Hoop, then click Simulate to see the sewing order.
7. Name the design and export as DST, PES or JEF. Also save the .bordado file to reuse later.

Which settings improve embroidered lettering?

Density (stitch spacing)

The editor's default is already calibrated for satin lettering. On terry cloth, increase density slightly (smaller spacing) or use a water-soluble topping so the thread does not sink into the loops.

Underlay

A center running stitch under the column lifts the satin and gives the raised look customers expect. On wide letters, use zigzag underlay.

Pull compensation

Knits, fleece and piqué pull the column inward, so letters come out thinner than on screen. Increase compensation by 0.2 to 0.4 mm on those fabrics. See Stitch types and settings.

Trims between letters

Letters that touch are connected by a hidden running stitch, with no jump or trim. In fonts with separate letters (block fonts), each letter can produce a trim; on a home machine that shows up as loose threads to clip afterwards. Script fonts solve this.

How do you price and sell embroidered names?

Embroidered names are the entry product for most shops: quick, cheap to produce and in constant demand (towels, baby blankets, school uniforms, scrubs, caps). The margin is in the process: a defined font set, a standard height per item type and a simple approval flow (a photo of the simulation by text message, the customer approves, you stitch).

Build a menu with 3 or 4 font options and 2 heights per item, and charge a flat price per name, with an add-on for a second line or a motif. The full math is in How to price custom embroidery.