Approximate screen-to-thread matching
Turn an image color into nearby Madeira thread options
Upload artwork or use a camera photo, choose a prominent color or sample a precise region, then compare ranked Madeira options. Approximate PMS references are shown separately.
Open the color matcher →- STEP 1
Add the image
Use clean digital artwork when available. For photos, use even, neutral light and avoid glare.
- STEP 2
Choose the useful area
Select an automatic palette color, tap a spot, or drag a rectangle over the color you actually want.
- STEP 3
Review real thread
Compare several nearby options and verify the final choice on a physical Madeira shade card.
How ranking works
The sampled sRGB color is converted to Lab and compared with electronic-card colors using CIEDE2000 (ΔE). A lower value means the screen references are closer under the calculation—not that thread, fabric, lighting, and a monitor will look identical.
About the PMS result
The built-in PMS values are community-maintained screen approximations, not an official Pantone library or conversion. Treat them as searchable language for discussion; use licensed Pantone materials when a contract or approval requires an official standard.
Good matching is a short list, not a false promise
Thread sheen, stitch direction, density, substrate color, lighting, camera processing, and display calibration all change perception. EmbroideryCalc deliberately gives nearby options and quality warnings so the final decision can happen against real thread.