Estimating Embroidery Stitch Count in Embroidery  Designs

Accurately estimating the number of stitches that a design WILL BE is not an easy task. Usually it takes years of experience to develop an eye. However there are tools and guides to assist in this process. I have included the standard method below.

The GRID method

Use the rules below and a grid similar to the one below to estimate our designs stitch count.

• 1 solid square inch of embroidery equals approximately 2,000   stitches.

• 1 solid square 1/4 inch of embroidery will equal about 125 stitches.

• No letter should be smaller than 3/16" each letter 1/4" in height equals about 100 stitches.

• Drop shadows in your logo will translate to 200 extra stitches per inch.

• Straight lines under logos typically require 200 extra stitches per inch.

• Fabrics, colors, and artwork detail will affect the amount of stitches.
   

It is important to remember that these stitch-count tips, and the stitch-count grid, provide estimates only. They are a good starting point to arrive at a ballpark count, but the precise figure can only be determined when the actual embroidery of your design is performed.