Inkstitch

About

Ink/Stitch is an open-source machine embroidery design platform based on Inkscape. It aims to be a full-fledged, cross-platform digitizing platform built entirely on free, open-source software, and it is meant to be approachable for hobbyists while still offering the power professional digitizers need. The website describes it as cross-platform rather than specific to one operating system.

Features include numerous stitch types and variants, from manual stitch placement to sophisticated types such as tartan patterns. A lettering system comes with a long list of ready-to-use fonts, and users can add text directly with the keyboard. Tools are available to optimize stitch path routing, and output files can be exported in many formats, including for self-made embroidery machines.

Support resources include a user manual covering installation, Inkscape customization for embroidery, and every tool and feature. There are also a stitch library, a font library with design samples, and tutorials and sample files covering appliqué, free-standing lace, fringe, push/pull compensation, satin edges, and stitch path optimization. A community offers help through a chat channel and discussion board, and people can contribute by reporting bugs, writing tutorials, providing sample files, helping with documentation or translations, or programming.