Tips For Small Lettering
Tips For Small Lettering
Making small lettering look good is one of the most challenging aspects of embroidery design. Pulse software users can simply select one of the many small lettering embroidery fonts (one size only stitch fonts), like Miniato 4mm or Staccato 7mm. These fonts are ideal since they are specifically designed to handle the problems associated with small lettering. Use the following tips to improve the quality of any small lettering.
Machine Settings:
Approximate speed of 400 stitches per minute or less.
Needle Size:
Use the smallest needle possible: 65/9 sharp or a 70/10 sharp.
Thread:
Use a lighter weight thread such as 50-weight cotton or 60-weight rayon.
Hoop:
Use the smallest hoop that will fit the design properly.
Other Pointers:
When selecting a normal embroidery font, remember the following: Serif and most monogram fonts should not be sewn below the recommended minimum height in order to avoid tiny short stitches. For example, the narrow shape of the serif should not be less than 1.2 mm. Script fonts are difficult due to the short stitching in the curved areas so they can not be reduced as much as block fonts. Avoid using Fill Box justification. This will distort the letters from their original punched shape. At larger heights, this is okay, but for small lettering this could result in columns that are much too narrow. True Type Fonts are excellent for sewing at large sizes but are unlikely to sew well at small sizes.
Backing:
Use extra backing. Add a heavy piece of tear away to make the letters look cleaner.
Spray Adhesive:
Use spray adhesive to secure the backing to thin fabrics.
Water-Soluble Film:
If possible, use water-soluble film. However, be sure to remove it with steam. If you remove it with water, it is more likely to get stuck inside the letters.