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Underlay Thread vs. Knockdown Stitch: Understanding the Differences In Digitizing

When it comes to embroidery digitizing, there are many techniques that can be used to produce high-quality embroidery designs. Two of the most popular techniques are "underlay thread" and "knockdown stitch." While these two techniques may seem similar, they are actually quite different. In this article, we will explore what underlay thread is and how it differs from knockdown stitch. We will also discuss how Eagle Digitizings expertise in various needle techniques can help you achieve high-quality embroidery designs.

What is Underlay Thread?

Underlay thread is a technique used in embroidery digitizing to provide stability to the fabric during the embroidery process. Underlay thread is used to secure the fabric to the stabilizer, which helps prevent the fabric from shifting during the embroidery process. The underlay thread is typically a lighter weight thread that is placed under the main embroidery design.

There are several types of underlay thread, including zigzag underlay, edge run underlay, and fill stitch underlay. Each type of underlay thread provides a different level of stability to the fabric and can be used to achieve different embroidery effects.


What is Knockdown Stitch?

Knockdown stitch is another embroidery digitizing technique used to provide stability to the fabric during the embroidery process. However, unlike underlay thread, knockdown stitch is used to create a solid base for the embroidery design. Knockdown stitch is typically used in designs with large open areas, such as letters or logos.

Knockdown stitch is a dense stitch that covers the entire embroidery area, providing a solid base for the main embroidery design. This base prevents the fabric from shifting during the embroidery process and ensures that the embroidery design remains aligned.

How Underlay Thread Differs from Knockdown Stitch

Underlay thread and knockdown stitch are both used to provide stability to the fabric during the embroidery process. However, the main difference between these two techniques is their purpose. Underlay thread is used to secure the fabric to the stabilizer, while knockdown stitch is used to create a solid base for the main embroidery design.

Another difference between these two techniques is their placement in the embroidery design. Underlay thread is typically placed under the main embroidery design, while knockdown stitch is placed over the entire embroidery area.

Eagle Digitizing's Expertise in Various Needle Techniques

Eagle Digitizing is a leading provider of embroidery digitizing services that specializes in various needle techniques, including underlay thread and knockdown stitch. The company's experienced digitizers have a deep understanding of embroidery digitizing techniques and can create custom designs that meet your specific needs and requirements.


Eagle Digitizing's team of experts can help you determine the best needle techniques for your specific design requirements. The company's communication process ensures that they understand your needs and can provide updates on the progress of your order.

In conclusion, underlay thread and knockdown stitch are both essential embroidery digitizing techniques that provide stability to the fabric during the embroidery process. While these two techniques may seem similar, they serve different purposes and are used in different ways. Eagle Digitizing's expertise in various needle techniques can help you achieve high-quality embroidery designs that meet your specific needs and requirements.