Design Custom Embroidery Patch using Inkstitch

Download & Install free software

NOTE: This tutorial assumes that you have completed the Basic Embroidery tutorial. If you have not yet completed that one, please at least read through it before attempting this project.

Before we get started we install both Inkscape and it's extension - Inkstitch.

Inkscape: Make sure to install Inkscape first before install the extension.
- Download & install Inkscape
Inkstitch: After installing Inkscape install the extension
- Download & install Inkstitch

In order for the ink/stitch extension to properly work, you have to use a vector image (svg or eps file). If you are using a png or jpeg you must convert it into to a vector graphic.

option 1: Using an svg file

Step 1

Find an image/ svg file for your patch. When searching for an image type in the name of object svg free.

For example: Rubiks cube svg free

Inkscape & Inkstitch

Step 2

Open Inkscape
Then select open and find the svg you saved previously

Select your file and click open

Step 3

Change the units from px to in (inches).

Adjust the size of your patch using the W and H values (Width and Height) located on the top right.

Option 2: Using a PNG image

Step 1

Open Inkscape
Then select open the png image you would like to use

Step 2

Select the image
Then select Path > Trace Bitmap

Select apply on the bottom right of the screen

Step 3

Change the units from px to in (inches).
Adjust the size of your patch using the W and H values (Width and Height) located on the top right.

Visualizing Embroidery stitch

Step 1

While selecting the image select the Simulator under the Ink/Stitch extension
Select > Extensions > Ink/Stitch > Visualize and Export > Simulator

The Simulator shows the stitch path and colors used in the embroidery job.
If the simulation looks good, move onto the next step to save your embroidery file.

Saving for embroidery

Step 1

Select > File Save As....

Step 2

Change File Type to...

Ink/Stitch Brother Embroidery Format (pes)

Then select save

What's next?

Check out the following guides to learn how to use the embroidery machines

Learn the basics of computerized embroidery using existing designs!

Learn the basics of using the multi needle embroidery machine!

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