What is 3D puff embroidery, and how does it work?
3D puff embroidery is a unique technique that adds a three-dimensional effect to your embroidery design. It uses a foam underlay that’s cut to the shape of the design and added as an extra layer to the fabric. The embroidery machine stitches over the foam piece, raising the design and creating a puffed effect.
3D puff embroidery vs flat embroidery
3D puff embroidery adds a three-dimensional element to the design, while flat embroidery lays the threads flat on the fabric. This technique also requires more space between stitches to add the foam layer, whereas flat embroidery can be more tightly packed.
What are the design file requirements?
Make sure the fonts you use for 3D puff embroidery are clear, bold, and thick. If the design isn’t thick enough, we won’t be able to embroider it. Take into account also the type of font you’re using - calligraphy fonts or thin, complicated fonts won’t work for 3D puff embroidery.
For 3D puff embroidery, the line thickness must be between 0.2" (5 mm) and 0.5" (12.5 mm), with at least 0.05" (1.27 mm) of space between 3D objects.
How to choose 3D puff embroidery for a product?
3D puff embroidery is only available for hats and can be used on your uploaded custom designs.
- Choose a product from our Product catalog.
- Upload your custom design.
- Click 3D Puff under the Color & Design tab.
Note that 3D puff embroidery and flat embroidery cannot be combined in the same print area.
What about digitization?
Like flat embroidery, 3D puff designs also go through digitization. A one-time fee will be incurred for each new design.
If you used the same file for a previous order but would like to use a different technique, the file must be digitized from scratch, and an adjustment fee will apply. This article provides more information on digitization and adjustment fees.
Is 3D puff embroidery more expensive than standard embroidery?
Yes. There are additional materials and steps involved in the process of applying puff stitching, so extra fees apply.
What kind of design files work with 3D puff?
We highly recommend uploading PNG files. For additional information about embroidery guidelines, please refer to our guide on how to create the perfect embroidery file.