Embroidery works best when the design is clear and not overly intricate. Complex details can get lost or appear muddled, while simpler designs maintain their impact and clarity on fabric. Use this guide to assess design suitability for embroidery projects. Please note that our expert team checks every order to ensure your design is optimal for your chosen process.
Designs that may be too complex:
- Excessive Detail:
Designs with many fine lines, small lettering, or intricate patterns.
Example: Detailed gradients, photographic images, or designs with intricate lace-like details. - High Complexity with Overlapping Elements:
Elements that overlap or are layered closely together, making it difficult for the embroidery machine to separate stitches. - Tiny or Delicate Elements:
Designs with elements that are too small to capture clearly in thread.
Real-World Example:
This example image, has fine lines, shading and complexity that wouldn’t work well as an embroidery, as a lot of this detail would be lost. To retain the detail, this would need to be printed, or simplified for embroidery.
Designs that are acceptable for embroidery:
- Bold and Simple Shapes:
Designs that rely on clear, thick lines and uncomplicated shapes. - Minimal Detailing:
Limited details that are easy to replicate in stitches. This includes logos or icons with few colors and simple forms. - Good Contrast:
Designs with high contrast between elements that translate well into thread without losing definition.
Real-World Example:
This image displays a design with bold lines and simple shapes. The limited detail makes it ideal for embroidery, ensuring clear and crisp stitch reproduction.
Tips for adjusting complex designs to simplify them
- Simplify Details:
Reduce the number of small elements. Aim for clarity over intricacy. - Increase Element Size:
Ensure no text or intricate design elements are less than 0.6cm-0.8cm (6-8mm) in height (text any smaller will not be clear/legible). Enlarge fine details where possible, so they stand out when stitched. - Limit Colors:
Fewer colors can help maintain definition and reduce the risk of muddled stitching. - Consult with Your Embroidery Specialist:
When in doubt, show the design to our embroidery experts who can provide advice on adjustments to optimise the design for thread and fabric.
Need more support?
When selecting or designing an image for embroidery, simplicity is key. Bold lines, clear shapes, and limited details ensure that the final product is both visually appealing and effectively reproduced on fabric. Use the above criteria and examples as a quick reference guide to decide if a design is suitable for your embroidery projects.
For further assistance or more detailed guidance, feel free to reach out to our support team.