Lana_CIf you’re ordering custom embroidered shirts or hats with your logo, one of the biggest factors in pricing is stitch count. Unlike screen printing, which is priced by the number of ink colors, embroidery pricing is based on how many stitches it takes to sew your design.
Understanding stitch count helps set expectations, avoid surprises, and make smarter design decisions before production begins.
How Custom Embroidery Works
Every embroidered design starts as a digital file that tells the embroidery machine exactly where to place each stitch. This file controls needle movements, stitch direction, stitch type, and thread color for every element of the design.
The process of converting artwork into this stitch-by-stitch file is called digitizing. Proper digitizing is critical. A well-digitized design stitches cleanly, holds its shape, and looks professional once sewn onto the garment.
What Is Stitch Count?
Stitch count is the total number of stitches required to embroider a specific design at a specific size. More detail, larger dimensions, and dense fills all increase stitch count.
Stitch count is calculated after the design is digitized and converted into a format the embroidery machine can read. Until that step happens, stitch count can only be estimated.
How Stitch Count Affects Pricing
Embroidery pricing is directly tied to stitch count because stitches determine production time and material usage.
Most embroidered apparel prices include a base stitch count, typically around 8,000 stitches. Once your design exceeds that amount, additional stitches increase the cost.
Higher stitch counts mean:
- Longer machine run time
- More thread usage
- Increased labor and wear on equipment
If your design exceeds the included stitch count, you’ll always be notified before production so you can approve any additional cost.
Estimating Your Design’s Stitch Count
While not exact, you can get a rough estimate using your logo’s dimensions.
A common estimation method:
- Measure the width and height of your logo in inches
- Multiply width × height × 2,000
Example:
- Logo size: 3 inches wide × 2 inches tall
- 3 × 2 = 6
- 6 × 2,000 = approximately 12,000 stitches
This method often overestimates, which can be helpful when budgeting.
Pros and Cons of Estimating Stitch Count
Benefits
- Fast and simple
- Helps with early budget planning
- Overestimation reduces surprise costs
Limitations
- Not fully accurate
- Does not account for stitch types or density
- Final count can only be confirmed after digitizing
Why Design Choices Matter
Small design adjustments can significantly reduce stitch count. Simplifying fills, reducing tiny details, and choosing clean linework can lower costs while improving readability, especially on hats and polos where embroidery areas are smaller.
If cost control matters, it’s often better to focus on clarity rather than complexity.
Final Takeaway
Stitch count is the foundation of embroidery pricing. Knowing how it’s calculated and what affects it allows you to design smarter, budget more accurately, and avoid unexpected costs.
If you’re ever unsure, your embroidery team can review your logo and help guide size and design choices before production begins.