Text Along a Curve
Curved Text Placement for Necklines
If you're curious about how to align and stitch letters along a curved neckline, the information below will walk you through it step by step!
Free Neckline Helper Files (Optional but Helpful)
You can download free Neckline Helper designs in multiple sizes—available in BX, PES, DST, and other embroidery formats:
How to download this free machine embroidery design?
Click the button below and a ZIP folder will automatically save to your Downloads. Don’t forget to unzip it before using.
Using the BX Neckline in Embrilliance
If you're working in Embrilliance and using BX files:
- Open the BX file from your download.
- Type any letter from A to H. Each letter corresponds to a different curve size—the larger the letter, the bigger the arc.
This is a quick way to match the neckline curve to your garment.
Creating Curved Text in Software
Most embroidery programs—like Hatch, Embird, Floriani, and Embrilliance—support curved text alignment.
Watch how it’s done:
How to Manually Stitch Letters Along a Curve
If you want to manually place letters on a curved neckline, here’s the full process:
Step 1: Use the Curve Helper Line
- In your design set, find the half-circle curve file.
- Import your letters and arrange them along this curve inside your software.
Step 2: Stitch the Curve Helper Line
- Hoop a piece of tear-away stabilizer.
- Stitch only the curve to create a visual guide.
- Make sure your letters in the software line up just under the stitched curve.
Step 3: Position and Stitch the Garment
- Lay the shirt or item flat, aligning its neckline to the stitched curve line.
- Pin or tape it in place to avoid shifting.
- Stitch the aligned letters for a perfectly curved finish.
Want to See It in Action?
Watch how this looks when stitched onto actual garments:
