If you digitize your own designs, chances are your objectives are similar to ours. You want a good looking design that has a minimum of color changes and trims, has the proper density for the intended fabric, has the least amount of stitches possible, and sews out efficiently.
No matter what digitizing software you use, there should be at least some control over stitch length. Settling for the program default isn’t always the best choice. By varying your stitch length you may be able to achieve your desired results in a more efficient manner.
Increasing stitch length in large fill areas can eliminate a substantial number of stitches. Reducing the number of stitches reduces the number of needle penetrations. This is not only good for the garment, but it helps reduce normal push/pull effects. Your designs will also take less time to sew out.
Longer stitch lengths can also provide better coverage. Short stitches tend to get pulled down into the garment resulting in increased show through of the fabric. Longer stitches lay on top for a greater distance reducing show through.
On the other side of the coin, there are times when shorter stitches may be in order. An example might be when working with color blending or shading. In this case you may want shorter stitches on your top layer to allow them to sink further down into the bottom layer. The results will be a nice smooth blend of colors.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with stitch lengths. You’ll be pleasantly surprised at how something so simple can make so much difference.
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