Flat Rate Digitizing vs Pay Per 1000 Stitches: Which Is Right for You?

Flat rate digitizing is pretty easy to get your head around. You pay one price for your design, and that’s it, no matter how many stitches it ends up needing. Could be 5,000 stitches or 50,000, doesn’t matter, the cost doesn’t change. A lot of embroidery digitizing services start their flat rates around $12, depending on who you’re working with and how complex your design is. True Digitizing is one of them. We provide a flat rate per design, no matter how complex your design is and how many stitches it contains.   

What is Pay Per 1000 Stitches?

Pay per 1000 stitches is a variable pricing model. You’re charged based on the stitch count of your design, usually at a rate of $1 to $3 per thousand stitches. A simple logo with 8,000 stitches might cost $12, while a detailed jacket back with 40,000 stitches could run you $80 or more. The more ground you cover, the higher the bill.

Pros and Cons of Flat Rate Digitizing

Pros:

• Predictable Costs: You know exactly what you’re paying upfront, making budgeting a breeze.

• Great for Complex Designs: If your project has a high stitch count, flat rates can save you money compared to per-stitch pricing.

• Simplicity: No need to estimate stitch counts or haggle over details. Just one price and done.

Cons:

• Overpaying for Simple Designs: A small, low-stitch logo might cost more than it would under a per-stitch model.

• Limited Flexibility: Some providers design size or complexity under flat rates, so check the fine print.

Pros and Cons of Pay Per 1000 Stitches

Pros

• Fair for Small Projects: Low-stitch designs come out cheaper, which is perfect for basic logos or monograms.

• Scalable Pricing: You only pay for what you use, so it feels tailored to your design.

• Industry Standard: Many digitizers use this model, giving you more options to shop around.

Cons

• Cost Creep: Intricate designs with high stitch counts can get pricey fast.

• Uncertainty: Without a stitch count estimate upfront, you might be in for a surprise when the order arrives.

Check out this blog post: What makes online embroidery digitizing services the best choice?

Embroidery Digitizing & Vector Art Services

At True Digitizing, we provide fast turnaround, guaranteed quality, and the facility to preview your design before making payment. We make sure you receive the exact thing that you require. We are devoted to providing our best every single time. So, what are you waiting for now? Call True Digitizing today and experience the quality and service

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Comparison Between Flat Rate Digitizing vs Pay Per 1000 Stitches

So, which one’s better? Let’s look at a side-by-side comparison using real-world examples (data reflects common pricing trends as of March 24, 2025):

If you’re digitizing a detailed jacket back or a large design, flat rate wins for cost savings. For small chest logos or quick projects, pay per 1000 stitches often comes out ahead.

Factors That Affect Your Choice

• Design Complexity: More details mean more stitches. Flat rates shine here.

• Volume: Ordering multiple designs? Some services offer flat-rate discounts for multiple projects.

• Turnaround Time: Rush orders often add $5-$10, regardless of the pricing model.

• Your Budget: Tight on cash? Pay per 1000 might stretch your money further for simpler work.

How Does Pricing Impact Embroidery Digitizing Services?

Embroidery digitizing services aren’t just about cost. They’re about value. Flat rates often signal a provider’s confidence in handling any design, while pay per 1000 stitches appeal to those who want precision pricing. In 2025, the industry is trending toward flexibility, with many companies offering both options to cater to diverse needs.

Choosing the Best Option for Your Embroidery Business

If you’re running a small business or freelancing, think about your projects. I’ve seen beginners stick to pay per 1000 stitches because their early designs like names or basic logos stay under 10,000 stitches. As they grow into larger, more intricate work, flat rates become a lifesaver. Test both with a small order to see what fits your workflow.