Machine Embroidery History

• Early embroidery machines used paper tape with holes punched in it. The punched tape was interpreted by the machine, and the design was stitched. Creating a design for an embroidery machine became known as "punching."
  
  

Auto-Punch Software

• One class of digitizing software is auto-punch. Some home embroidery machines include an auto-punch program, and there are several auto-punch programs available for home or commercial embroiderers. These programs are relatively easy to use, but tend to give lower-quality results. Basically, the user clicks an area of the image and the software automatically fills that area with stitches. The user has some control over the output, but fine-tuning the design is impossible.
  
  

Manual-Punch Software

• True digitizing software is more expensive and harder to learn than auto-punch, but the results are more professional. The user is able to specify the underlay, overlay, fill stitches, the needle path and all the details of the design. This type of digitizing is an art form unto itself.
  
  

The Digitizing Process

• Whether you use auto-punch software or manual digitizing software, you begin with an image three to four times the size of the finished design. Ideally, the digitizer will consider the fabric the design will be stitched on and the type of thread to be used. The design is mapped out and stitches assigned to each section. A test stitch-out needs to be done to identify any problem areas and modifications made to the design.
  
  

Technical Requirements for Digitizing

• Each digitizing program has its own technical requirements, but as a general rule, digitizing requires a powerful computer. You'll need a good processor and lots of RAM for the software to run smoothly. A large monitor will also make the process easier.