Compiled Embroidery Skill Articles

Stitch Length
The length of a stitch will vary depending on the stitch type, but there are a few general rules that are determined by the equipment
being used. Most equipment today will have a maximum stitch length of 12mm. To travel longer distances, the use of a
jump stitch or needle up would be required. This does not mean that a 12mm satin stitch is a good idea. Most stitches should
be kept at 6mm or less. Longer stitches are not as stable and are more likely to be snagged. In addition, they will cause wear
and tear on your embroidery equipment. It is possible to digitize a satin stitch at 10mm wide but to ensure smooth sewing, the
use of jump stitches is necessary. Most digi systems have an automatic setting of 7mm, which is industry standard. This
means the 10mm satin stitch actually has a jump in between each stitch which ensures smoother sewing.
Minimum stitch length should also be considered. Although your equipment may be able to create stitches that are less than
1mm, the stitch will not form well. The needle and thread need to move far enough away from the last stitch to make a new
needle penetration. If the distance is shorter than 1mm, the needle and thread may simply sew into the same hole, causing
most of the embroidery to end up behind the material. You will also find that if the stitch is too short, the underlay may poke
out of the top stitching.
Here are some guidelines to consider concerning stitch length:
- Keep all stitches longer than 1mm
- Set jump stitch for 7mm
- Try to keep all satin stitches no longer than 6-10mm
- Use a stitch length of 3-6mm for tatami stitches
- Use 2-3mm for underlay stitch length
- Use 1.5-2.5mm for run stitches or detail.
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