Patch and applique digitizing
Patches and applique need their own kind of digitizing. A patch file has to plan the border, the fill and the backing together; an applique file needs placement, tack-down and cover stitches in the right order. We digitize both so they sew cleanly the first time.
Patch digitizing and applique digitizing need more than a standard embroidery file. We digitize embroidered patches, badges and emblems with clean merrow-ready or satin borders, and applique designs with accurate placement and tack-down lines.
| Price | Quoted per design — send your artwork for a price |
| What you get | A machine-ready file with every step sequenced |
| File formats | DST, PES, EXP, JEF, VP3 and more |
| Proof | You approve a stitch-out preview |
| Delivery | By email — nothing to ship |
Patch digitizing
- Full-coverage fills with density set so the patch stays flat and stiff
- Satin borders, or a cut line for merrowed and laser-cut edges
- Fine detail sized for the patch — embroidered patches hold about 5 mm lettering
- Badges, emblems, name tapes and morale patches
- Files for cutting machines on heat-cut borders, on request
Applique digitizing
- Placement line — shows where the fabric goes
- Tack-down stitch — holds the fabric in place
- Trim — the excess fabric is cut away
- Cover stitch — a satin or decorative border seals the edge
Applique uses less thread than a full fill, so large designs sew faster and feel lighter. It is common on letterman jackets, team uniforms, baby items and tackle twill numbers. We also make finished tackle twill and applique patches.
Lettering and monograms
Names, monograms and custom lettering are digitized from fonts suited to thread, with column widths and spacing set for the size. For individual name patches, see name patches.
Custom patch digitizing and badge embroidery digitizing
Patch embroidery digitizing starts from the border. A satin border needs the right width and density to seal a hot-cut edge, while a merrowed patch needs a clean edge run for the overlock. Inside the border, we set fill direction and density so the patch stays flat and does not curl. Custom patch digitizing, badge embroidery digitizing and emblem digitizing all follow these rules.
Applique embroidery files
An applique embroidery design sews in three stages: a placement line, a tack-down stitch and a finishing satin edge. We digitize each stage as a separate colour stop so your machine pauses at the right moment to place and trim the fabric. Applique embroidery designs work well for large letters, team names and children’s designs, where a big fill would be heavy and slow.
- Applique letters and numbers for sportswear
- Applique stitch files with trim lines
- Embroidered patch designs with applique centres
- Twill and felt applique for jackets and bags
Monogram and lettering digitizing
Monogram embroidery digitizing, name embroidery files and custom embroidery lettering are digitized letter by letter so small text stays sharp. Font digitizing for embroidery lets you reuse a brand or team font, and embroidery alphabet designs can be supplied for repeated personalisation.
Common questions
Do I need digitizing if you make my patches?
No. When we make your patches, digitizing is included. This service is for people sewing patches or applique on their own machines.
Can you digitize for chenille?
Chenille needs a chain-stitch machine and specialist files. Ask us — or let us make chenille patches for you.
Can you match an existing patch?
Yes, from a clear photo, if the design is yours to reproduce.
What’s the difference between applique and a patch?
Applique is sewn directly onto the garment with a fabric piece. A patch is made separately on its own backing and then attached.
Can you digitize a patch with a merrowed border?
Yes. We set up the file so the merrow edge can be added after the patch is cut.
Get a free quote
Send us your artwork or existing file, the finished size, what it will be sewn on and your machine format. Choose “Embroidery digitizing” as the product and we will come back with a price. If you cannot attach artwork here, email it to hello@sewwhatembroiderydesigns.com.