Stitch Count Estimation

Commercial embroidery digitizers often need to determine an approximate stitch count before beginning a project, as the pricing for custom digitizing services is frequently based on the final stitch count of the design.

When the artwork provided is a clear raster image or photograph, Studio enables a rapid stitch count estimation via the Trace tool.

The method involves using the Trace tool to auto-vectorize a rough "probe" design with a few clicks. By generating stitches for these objects, you can use the resulting total as a reliable estimate.

1. Import the Raster Image

Import the raster artwork into Studio as you would for a standard digitizing project. You may scale the artwork to its actual dimensions now, or resize the traced vector objects later. Accurate estimation requires working with the design at its intended final size.

To resize the raster image, use the Edit Image window, accessible via Main Menu > Image > Tools > Edit Image Window.

2. Trace the Design

Select the Trace tool (represented by the magic wand icon) to identify individual artwork areas and convert them into stitch-filled objects. Repeat this process until all primary areas are covered.

The Trace tool is located in the Tool Box panel.

Traced vector objects filled with stitches

Trace tool icon

Select from the available tracing styles - such as plain fill or column - to trace areas using the same logic you would apply during actual digitizing.

Note: It is not necessary to create a perfect design with intricate details; the goal is solely to obtain a quantitative estimate.

Note: When tracing a background fill that sits beneath small lettering or other fine details, use the Ignore Openings setting to create a solid, compact fill.

Traced vector objects filled with stitches. Objects (A) and (B) are traced as plain fills using the 'Ignore Openings' option. Objects (C) and (D) are traced as columns.

3. Set the Final Dimensions

If the image was not resized prior to tracing, resize the vector objects now. Failure to use the correct scale will result in an inaccurate stitch count.

4. Generate Stitches

Select all objects and generate the stitches.

The total stitch count for the selected design is displayed in the Studio status bar. This figure serves as the estimated stitch count.

Ensure objects are selected (1). The total stitch count of the selection is visible in the status bar (2).

Note: Where appropriate, the Auto Outliner tool can be used to add a double-layered stitch outline to objects, further increasing the accuracy of the estimation.