So, you’ve got Hatch Embroidery Software on your computer and you’re ready to start digitizing. Amazing! But then, you open the program and see terms like satin stitch, fill stitch, and motif run, and suddenly you’re overwhelmed.
Don’t worry—you’re not alone.
Pro Tip: If you ever want a break or need something professionally digitized, Digitizing Buddy has your back. They’ll convert your designs into clean, stitch-perfect embroidery files for you—especially useful when you’re on a deadline or still learning the ropes with Hatch.
This guide will break down the different stitch types in Hatch Embroidery Software, how and when to use them, and tips for getting the best results.
What Are Stitch Types in Embroidery Software?
Stitch types are like brushes in digital painting—each one creates a different look and function. In Hatch, you’ll find a variety of stitches, each with specific purposes for creating texture, direction, emphasis, or efficiency.
Choosing the right stitch type is key to:
- A clean and professional look
- Efficient machine running
- Durability and wearability
- Preventing puckering or thread breaks
Let’s explore each type in Hatch Embroidery.
1. Satin Stitch (a.k.a. Column Stitch)
What It Is:
A smooth, shiny stitch type used to cover narrow to medium-width shapes. Think of it as a tight zig-zag that lays side by side.
When to Use:
- Text and lettering (under 10mm height)
- Borders and outlines
- Appliqué edges
- Decorative accents
Best For:
- Monograms
- Small logos
- Banners or patches
Avoid If:
- The shape is too wide (over 8–10mm) — it can lead to loops or snagging.
2. Tatami Stitch (a.k.a. Fill Stitch)
What It Is:
A series of rows that fill large shapes with an even texture. Looks more matte and is less shiny than satin.
When to Use:
- Large filled areas (like backgrounds or big logos)
- Text bigger than 10mm
- Detailed artwork with wide coverage
Best For:
- Jacket backs
- Quilt blocks
- Cartoon-style art
Tips:
- You can change stitch angles, density, and underlay for better results.
- Try blending multiple colors for gradient effects!
3. Running Stitch
What It Is:
A simple line stitch that moves from point A to B with small individual stitches.
When to Use:
- Outlining
- Redwork and sketch-style designs
- Connecting stitch elements (like walk stitches between objects)
- Detail lines or subtle textures
Best For:
- Thin outlines on text or shapes
- Lightweight fabrics
- Placement lines in appliqué
Watch Out:
Too short = thread breaks
Too long = loops or snagging
4. Triple Run Stitch
What It Is:
A version of the running stitch, but it stitches forward, backward, and forward again for thicker lines and durability.
When to Use:
- More visible outlines
- Stitching on stretchy fabric
- Text under 5mm
Best For:
- Redwork designs
- Quilting stitches
- Bold outlines
5. Motif Run & Motif Fill
What It Is:
These stitch types use pre-designed decorative patterns (motifs) instead of basic straight lines or fills.
When to Use:
- Borders and frames
- Decorative fills in simple shapes
- Personal projects like home décor
Best For:
- Creative embellishments
- Kids’ designs
- Adding texture without density
Hatch Tip: You can customize or even create your own motif styles in Hatch!
6. Embossed Fill
What It Is:
A decorative fill with embossed patterns (like diamonds, stars, or waves) on top of the base fill stitching.
When to Use:
- Quilting
- Background textures
- Tone-on-tone designs
Best For:
- Pillows, table runners, and wall art
- Large background areas that need interest
- High-end or boutique-style embroidery
7. Stipple Fill
What It Is:
A wandering, random-looking stitch pattern often used in quilting or as a background fill.
When to Use:
- Quilts
- Backgrounds behind main elements
- Free-motion style effects
Fun Fact: Looks like hand-done quilting stitches, but totally machine-generated.
8. Backstitch and Stem Stitch (Advanced Decorative Stitches)
What It Is:
Used mainly in decorative digitizing, these stitches emulate traditional hand embroidery effects.
When to Use:
- Faux-hand embroidery
- Floral stems
- Vintage-style designs
Available under Artwork-to-Stitch conversions in Hatch.
How to Choose the Right Stitch Type in Hatch
When you’re designing in Hatch, picking the right stitch type is all about:
| Design Area | Best Stitch Type |
| Small text (under 10mm) | Satin |
| Large filled areas | Tatami |
| Thin lines | Running or Triple Run |
| Outlines | Triple Run or Satin |
| Decorative touches | Motif or Embossed Fill |
| Quilting/backgrounds | Stipple Fill or Embossed Fill |
Always test your design on similar fabric before committing to the final stitch-out.
Customizing Stitches in Hatch
One of the best things about Hatch? You can edit almost everything about a stitch type.
Adjust stitch angle
Change density
Choose underlay types
Edit stitch pathing
Mix different types in one object
Add trims, tie-ins, and tie-offs
Pro Tip: Use Hatch’s Object Properties panel to explore settings and preview changes instantly.
Tips for Better Stitch Results in Hatch
- Use auto-digitizing to start, but tweak manually for cleaner results
- Always consider fabric type when choosing density
- Use underlay stitches to prevent puckering or distortion
- Match stitch type to shape size—don’t use satin on huge areas
- Preview in TrueView to check your design before exporting
Exporting Your Design to Your Embroidery Machine
Once your design is complete:
- Go to File > Export Machine File
- Select the correct file format (e.g., .PES for Brother, .DST for industrial machines)
- Save to USB or transfer directly to your machine
Not sure which format to choose? Check your machine’s manual—or just ask Digitizing Buddy. They support all major formats and even offer file conversions.
When to Use a Digitizing Service Instead
Even with all the power of Hatch, sometimes it’s faster (and safer) to outsource. Here’s when:
- You’re working with complex logos or artwork
- It’s for a paying client or large production
- You don’t have time to test or tweak
- You want a perfect stitch file to learn from
Digitizing Buddy offers expert-level digitizing with fast turnaround, clean paths, and file formats for all embroidery machines.
Final Thoughts: Stitch with Confidence in Hatch
Learning the ins and outs of stitch types in Hatch Embroidery Software gives you the freedom to create polished, professional-quality designs that stitch out beautifully. Whether you’re digitizing for fun, gifts, or business, mastering stitches like satin, tatami, and triple run gives you full control over the look and feel of your embroidery.
