Embroidery Digitizing FAQ
Straight answers to the questions we hear most — pricing, turnaround, file formats, and how digitizing actually works. Still stuck? Get in touch and we'll help.
What is embroidery digitizing?
Embroidery digitizing is the process of converting a logo or piece of artwork into a stitch file — a set of instructions that tells an embroidery machine exactly where to place every stitch, in what direction, and in what order. It is not an automatic conversion; a skilled digitizer decides stitch types, underlay, density, and sequencing so the design stitches cleanly on real fabric.
How much does embroidery digitizing cost?
Our digitizing starts at $1.00 per 1,000 stitches, with a $6 minimum per design and no setup fees. A small left-chest logo is usually $6 to $10. Prices depend mainly on stitch count and complexity. See our full pricing guide for a detailed breakdown.
How long does digitizing take?
Standard turnaround is 24 hours. Because our team works around the clock, most orders are ready sooner, and rush options are available when you need a file the same day.
What file formats do you deliver?
Every order includes DST as standard, plus PES, EXP, JEF, VP3, XXX, HUS and any other machine format you need — free. Just tell us your machine and we deliver the right format.
Can you convert a PNG or JPG to a DST embroidery file?
A PNG or JPG is a picture made of pixels, not stitches, so it cannot be auto-converted — it has to be digitized. We turn your PNG, JPG, PDF or vector file into a clean DST (and any other format) from $1 per 1,000 stitches. If you already have an embroidery file in another format, our free file converter changes it instantly.
What do you need from me to digitize my logo?
Just send the best version of your artwork you have — a vector file, PNG, JPG, PDF, or even a photo — along with the finished size, the fabric or garment, and your thread colors if you have them. The cleaner the artwork, the sharper the result, but we can work from almost anything.
Do you offer free revisions?
Yes. If the file needs adjustment after a test sew, we revise it free. We want the design to stitch right on your machine, not just look right on screen.
Will my small text and fine details stitch clearly?
That depends on the size. Below about a quarter inch, satin text and thin lines get hard to hold. We check legibility before delivery and, if a detail will not hold at your size, we tell you before we build it rather than after.
Can you match my exact brand colors?
Yes. We match your brand colors to standard thread charts (Madeira, Isacord and others) so every run is consistent with your branding.
Do you keep my files or artwork?
Your artwork and files are used only to complete your order. We do not sell your data, share your files, or use them for any other purpose. Our free file converter processes files without storing them on our servers.
What is the difference between digitizing and auto-digitizing?
Auto-digitizing is software guessing at stitches from an image; on a real logo it produces gaps, thread breaks, blurred text, and puckering. Manual digitizing is a person building the file with the right stitch decisions for the design and fabric. It costs a little more up front and saves far more in wasted blanks and reworks.
Do you work with shops in the USA and UK?
Yes. We work with embroidery shops, screen printers, and decorators across the US and UK, with pricing in USD and turnaround that fits both time zones. See our USA and UK service pages for details.
Still have a question?
Send us your logo or your question and we'll give you a straight answer and a free quote — no pressure.