Digitizing
Converting a logo into a stitch file the embroidery machine can read.
Embroidery machines do not understand JPG or vector files. The artwork has to be converted into an embroidery file (.dst, .emb, .pes) that tells the machine the path, direction, density, and color of every single stitch. That conversion is called digitizing.
Digitizing is part art, part science. A skilled digitizer chooses stitch types (satin, fill, run), pull compensation for stretchy fabrics, and underlay stitches that prevent puckering. A bad digitization shows up as a logo that looks lumpy, distorted, or unreadable on the finished garment.
Most embroidery shops charge a one-time digitizing fee of $30–$80 per logo. Once digitized, the file can be reused for unlimited future orders. Always ask for a copy of your digitized file — it belongs to you, and you can take it to any embroidery shop in the world.