Special Techniques and Effects
A drop shadow or three-dimensional effect uses a second copy of a character behind itself. The example shown here is from the Brush Block 2C UC 20-30 font included with mySewnet™ Embroidery.
To create a drop-shadow effect, digitize the shadow first, then the main character on top. The distance that the shadow is offset should be consistent for each character.
Only digitize the parts of the shadow that will show, plus enough overlap to make sure the shadow does not separate from its character.
Alternatively, create a drop-shadow effect using mySewnet™ Embroidery. For a large offset where the shadow is close to separating from the top text, it is possible to place two copies of the same text in mySewnet™ Embroidery, as shown here.
Techniques to emphasize the drop shadow include use of color, fill angle and running stitch outlines.
A light color at the front and a dark color at the back will give the strongest effect.
If the characters are digitized with fill areas, use the stitch angles to exaggerate the effect. For instance, put horizontal or vertical stitches at the front of the character, and then apply an angle to the stitches at the back. Do not use Universal Properties on the font, so as to allow control over the fill angles.
After placing satin or fill areas, use running stitch to outline the shapes to enhance the 3D appearance. Alternatively, create the characters entirely as outlines using running, double or triple stitch.