Embroidery Pattern Design – Hatch by Wilcom

Course Overview

The aim of this course is to prepare participants to independently design embroidery patterns from scratch in Hatch by Wilcom, using methods that are technically sound, aesthetically pleasing, and optimized for production.

This training is designed as an intensive workshop introducing conscious embroidery pattern design (digitizing). Participants will learn not only how to use the software but, more importantly, the logic behind creating an embroidery project: from graphic analysis and selecting stitch types and technical parameters to optimizing the file for real-world production. The program has been structured so that upon completion, participants understand the relationships between fabric type, pattern construction, stitch selection, and the final outcome on the embroidery machine.

A key aspect of the course is shifting away from viewing embroidery as an automatic graphic conversion. Participants learn to make design decisions based on manufacturing technology, material properties, and quality requirements. As a result, they are able to prepare patterns that are clearer, more stable, and economically efficient to produce.

Course Objectives

• Understanding the principles of embroidery pattern design and the differences between graphics and computerized embroidery
• Developing skills to prepare graphics and analyze projects before digitization
• Mastering conscious selection of stitch types, directions, underlays, and technical parameters
• Ability to adapt projects to the specific fabric type and technological limitations
• Preparing participants to independently create and optimize patterns for production

Who is this course for?

• Individuals starting their journey with computerized embroidery
• Embroidery machine owners who want to design their own patterns
• Individuals wanting to enter the embroidery industry
• Staff from small workshops and factories who wish to understand design technology from a practical perspective

Prerequisites

• Basic computer skills in a Windows environment
• Motivation for workshop-based work and performing practical exercises
• Basic knowledge of computerized embroidery or embroidery machine operation is welcome but not mandatory

Training Methods

• Short lectures with trainer commentary
• Demonstrations using real-world project examples
• Practical exercises in the software
• Error analysis and discussion regarding the technical correctness of projects
• Final assignment verifying understanding of the design process

Trainer Experience

The trainer has over 20 years of professional experience in computerized embroidery technology and embroidery pattern design. Their career began in 2001 as an embroiderer at a large production facility, where they gained practical experience in production processes and embroidery technology. In 2002, they started self-teaching embroidery pattern design using Wilcom software. Through intensive practice and numerous projects, they quickly established partnerships for pattern design work, which they continued for many years.

Since 2004, they have been conducting training in computerized embroidery technology and embroidery pattern design, specializing in Wilcom software. To date, they have delivered over 300 trainings and presentations for individual clients and companies. They are also the founder of Poland's first portal dedicated to computerized embroidery, serving as a platform for sharing industry knowledge and experience. In 2015, they received the prestigious Authorized Training Partner certificate from Wilcom, confirming high training competencies and alignment with international standards.

Learning Outcomes

• Analyze input graphics for feasibility of computerized embroidery.
• Select appropriate stitch types, directions, and stitching order based on element shape and desired effect.
• Set basic technical parameters considering the material type.
• Create a simple embroidery pattern from scratch in Hatch by Wilcom.
• Optimize the embroidery file for production and reduce common execution errors.

Verification Criteria

• Identifies elements requiring simplification; can divide a project into embroidery objects; evaluates which details are technically feasible.
• Correctly identifies the application of satin stitch, tatami (fill stitch), and special stitches; justifies the choice of stitch direction and stitching sequence.
• Adjusts density, stitch length, compensation, and underlay for sample materials; identifies typical embroidery distortion phenomena.
• Independently prepares a project based on graphics; builds layers and embroidery elements according to technological logic.
• Reduces unnecessary jumps and trims; organizes element order; prepares a project that is more efficient in terms of time and quality.

Validation Methods

• Observation of work during exercises, discussion of design decisions, and checking questions.
• Practical task in the software, project evaluation by the trainer using a checklist.
• Workshop exercise, case study analysis, and summary discussion.
• Final assignment completed independently during the training.
• Review of the final project, checklist, and trainer feedback.

MODULE 1: Fundamentals of Computerized Embroidery Design

• What is embroidery pattern design (digitizing)
• Difference between graphics and embroidery
• Why embroidery is not an automatic conversion
• Project stages: mapping stitches onto graphics, assigning technical parameters, project optimization

MODULE 2: Preparing Graphics for Embroidery

• Which graphics are suitable for embroidery
• Simplification and project analysis
• Dividing into embroidery elements
• Matching details to technological capabilities
• Preparing the file for digitization

MODULE 3: Physics of Embroidery and Material Behavior

• How material affects embroidery
• Phenomena: puckering, pushing, stitch sinking
• The role of stabilizers
• Impact of thread and needle tension
• How to predict the final effect already at the design stage

MODULE 4: Principles of Embroidery Pattern Design

• Working with layers
• Order of stitching elements
• Stitch directions and their significance
• Building pattern clarity
• Avoiding beginner errors

MODULE 5: Types of Embroidery Stitches

• Satin stitch
• Fill stitch (tatami)
• Decorative and special stitches
• Application of stitches depending on the project element
• Choosing stitch type based on size and shape

MODULE 6: Stitch Placement Methods

• Stitching directions
• Dividing objects into smaller sections
• Working with outlines and fills
• Building embroidery aesthetics
• Conscious design instead of automation

MODULE 7: Stitch Parameters and Material Matching

• Stitch density
• Stitch length
• Fabric compensation
• Underlays
• Settings for different materials (e.g., knit, fleece, cotton)

MODULE 8: Embroidery Project Optimization

• Reducing stitching time
• Reducing jumps and thread trims
• Correct element order
• Minimizing errors during embroidery
• Preparing the project for mass production