How to Convert Bitmap Images into PhotoStitch Embroidery Designs

The PhotoStitch feature allows you to convert raster (bitmap) images—such as photographs—into embroidery designs automatically. The software analyzes the image gradients and creates layers of satin bars to replicate the visual look of the photo with stitches.

This guide will walk you through importing an image, resizing it for your hoop, and adjusting the stitch properties for the best result.

Step 1: Import the Bitmap Image

1. Open DRAWings PRO XII.
2. Locate the “From file” icon on the standard toolbar.
3. Browse your computer for the bitmap image (JPG, PNG, BMP, etc.) you wish to convert and click Open.

Step 2: Configure Import Settings

Once you select a file, a dialog box will appear displaying the image and various handling options.

1. Select the Open as PhotoStitch option from the available choices.
2. Crop the Image (Optional):
   • Use the handles on the outer edges of the preview to crop in.
   • Alternatively, click and drag directly on the preview area to draw a selection box around the specific area you want to stitch.
   • Note: Use the circle icon to reset the selection if you make a mistake.

Step 3: Resize and Resolution

Before finalizing the import, ensure the design fits your embroidery hoop.

1. Locate the Resolution section at the bottom of the dialog.
2. Adjust the Width, Height, or DPI. Changing one value automatically updates the others to maintain aspect ratio.
   • Pro Tip: If your image exceeds the default “Backdrop size limit” (29.5cm / 11.6 inches), the software will automatically reduce the resolution to fit this limit. Ensure you scale the image down to fit your specific machine hoop size here.

Step 4: Choose Color Mode (Monochrome vs. CMYK)

Once imported, the software generates the stitches. You can choose between two primary distinct looks.

Option A: Monochrome (Default) The design is created using a single thread color.

• Change Color: Click a color on the Used Colors bar to change the thread color.
• Negative Image: In the properties tab, check Negative. This inverts the fill area (light areas become dark and vice versa), which is useful for stitching on dark fabrics.

Option B: CMYK (Full Color)

1. Uncheck the Monochrome box in the properties.
2. The software will generate four layers of colored satin bars (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, and Black) to mimic the full color spectrum of the original photo.
   • Note: When using this mode, you cannot manually change the thread colors, as they are required to blend correctly to form the image.

Step 5: Fine-Tune Stitch Properties

To improve the clarity or artistic look of the PhotoStitch, you can adjust the following settings in the Properties panel:

1. Satin Bar Width:
   • Lower Values: Creates more stitches. The result looks closer to the original image but increases stitch count significantly.
   • Higher Values: Reduces stitch count. However, setting this too high may cause the image to look distorted or lose detail.
2. Density: Adjusts how tightly the satin bars are stitched.
3. Gamma: Type a value to adjust the gamma correction. Depending on the exposure of your original photo, adjusting this can enhance contrast and detail visibility.

Alternative Conversion Styles

While this guide focuses on PhotoStitch, the software offers other patented tools for bitmap conversion:

• Cross-stitch: Converts the bitmap into a cross-stitch pattern.
• PaintStitch: Creates a design that mimics a brush painting.
• Sketch: Converts the image into a charcoal sketch style embroidery.