Adding Text
The Text tool lets you add lettering to your design using a variety of fonts.
Using the Text Tool
- Select the Text tool (press T or click it in the toolbar)
- The text editor dialog opens
- Type your text, choose a font and settings, then click Add to Pattern
The text is placed on a new layer, allowing you to move, resize, or edit it independently.
Font Sources
The font browser offers five tabs:
| Tab | Source |
|---|---|
| Stitch Fonts | Custom bitmap fonts designed specifically for stitching (.salfont files) |
| Google Fonts | Over 1,000 fonts from Google Fonts (downloaded on first use) |
| Local Fonts | Fonts installed on your computer (Windows and macOS only) |
| Favorites | Fonts you have marked with a heart for quick access |
| Recent | The last 20 fonts you have used |
Stitch Fonts
Stitch fonts (.salfont files) are specially designed for needlepoint and cross-stitch. They are pixel-perfect at specific sizes, ensuring clean, readable letters on the grid. You can import additional stitch fonts using the import button.
System and Google Fonts
System and Google fonts are converted to stitch patterns on the fly. The results depend on the font style and stitch height — some fonts render better than others at small sizes.
Text Settings
Stitch Height
Controls the height of the text in stitches. Use the slider or type a number. For stitch fonts, a dropdown shows the available sizes with the best rendering.
Boldness (Thickness)
Available for system and Google fonts. A slider from 0% to 100% controls how thick the letter strokes are. The default is 50%.
Smoothness
Available for system and Google fonts. A slider from 0% to 100% controls curve rendering quality. Higher values produce smoother curves but may add extra stitches.
Orientation
| Option | Description |
|---|---|
| Horizontal | Normal left-to-right text (default) |
| Vertical Down | Text reads from top to bottom |
| Vertical Up | Text reads from bottom to top |
| Stacked | One letter per row, stacked vertically |
Alignment
Choose Left, Center, or Right alignment for multi-line text.
Color
Select a color from your palette for the text. If your palette is empty, black is added automatically.
Editing Existing Text
Text layers are marked with a T badge in the Layers panel. Click the Edit button on a text layer to reopen the text editor with the original settings, allowing you to make changes without starting over.