Short answer: for a hoodie, use a medium cutaway stabilizer, a water-soluble topping on fleece, and place a center chest design about 3 to 4 inches below the neckline, above the pocket. Adult center chest designs are usually 8 to 10 inches wide.
Hoodie Placement Guide
| Placement | Typical size | Where |
|---|---|---|
| Left chest | 3 to 4 in wide | 7 to 9 in below shoulder seam |
| Center chest | 8 to 10 in wide | Top about 3 to 4 in below neckline |
| Full back | 10 to 12 in wide | Top about 3 to 5 in below collar |
| Sleeve | 2.5 to 3.5 in wide | Upper sleeve or cuff |
Step by Step
- Mark the center line and the top of the design.
- Hoop medium cutaway with the hoodie, keeping the pocket out of the hoop.
- Add a water-soluble topping on fleece.
- Check the design is straight and centered.
- Stitch, trim the stabilizer and remove the topping.
Tips for Heavy Fabric
- Use a design digitized for fleece, with enough underlay.
- Avoid hooping over seams and the pocket.
- Do not stretch the fabric in the hoop.
- Use a sharp 75/11 or 80/12 needle.
More help: stabilizer guide, size guide and jacket back and center chest digitizing ($12 to $15).
Frequently Asked Questions
Where should a design go on a hoodie?
For a center chest design, the top of the design usually sits about 3 to 4 inches below the neckline, above the front pocket.
What size design fits a hoodie front?
Center chest designs are usually about 8 to 10 inches wide on adult hoodies, depending on the hoop and pocket.
What stabilizer should I use on a hoodie?
A medium-weight cutaway stabilizer, plus a water-soluble topping on fleece.
Can I embroider the hood or sleeve?
Yes. Small designs work on hoods and sleeves, but they are harder to hoop. A sleeve arm or tubular hoop helps.
How much does a large hoodie design cost to digitize?
At Nex Punch, center chest and jacket back designs are $12 to $15.
Need a file? Send your logo or browse our embroidery design shop.
