How do I know how many thread colors an embroidery design uses?

You can usually find the number of thread colors in the design information or color chart, or see them after loading the design into embroidery software or your machine. Knowing the number of colors helps you prepare the threads you will need before starting the stitch-out.

Check the Design Information

Many embroidery design listings show the number of thread colors along with the design size and stitch count. This is the easiest way to check before downloading or purchasing a design.

Check the Color Chart

The color chart shows the thread colors used in the design and the order in which they are stitched. Count the different color stops to determine how many thread colors are required.

Check Your Embroidery Software

If you already have the design file, embroidery software can usually display the number of colors, color sequence, and other design information.

Check Your Embroidery Machine

Many embroidery machines show the thread colors or color changes after you load a design. The information available depends on your particular machine.

Can I Use My Own Thread Colors?

Yes. The colors shown in a design's color chart are generally a guide. You can often substitute similar colors from the embroidery thread brand you use while keeping the same stitching sequence.

Quick Checklist

  • Product listing: Check the listed number of thread colors.
  • Color chart: See the colors and stitching order.
  • Software: View the color sequence and color count.
  • Machine: Check the information displayed after loading the design.

Best tip: Check the color chart before starting your project and place your threads in stitching order. This makes color changes much easier while the design is stitching.

Source of information: With over 200,000 customers and a private Facebook group with more than 2,000 members, we have heard just about every embroidery question and troubleshooting problem you can imagine. This question has come to us directly from customers by email, through our Facebook page, and in our private Facebook group.

Have another question? See all the answers in our machine embroidery designs FAQ.