How to Format Monogram Designs

Monograms - we have such a love affair with these classic designs. And a question we are asked often is how to properly format a monogram design when using 2, 3 or 4 letters.

Today we are going to look at how to set up your monograms so that you can quickly make designs that correctly display your name(s).

How to Properly Format Monogram Designs

Monograms are very popular! And I don't foresee them ever going out of style. They are used in traditional & modern design and add a personalized touch to gifts, clothing, home decor & more. There are 12 monogram sets in the So Fontsy Monogram Starter Bundle and I have been using them to personalize EVERYTHING 🙌The best part...they are only 83 cents a set!!

Alright, let's set the record straight on how to use monograms to bring your projects to a whole new level!

SINGLE PERSON TRADITIONAL 3 LETTER MONOGRAM

This is the standard monogram. It's used for one person with first, middle & last initials. Our example here features the apple monogram, which is part of the So Fontsy Monogram Starter Bundle.
Here is how you set it up:

First Initial * Last Initial (Larger than the others) * Middle Initial

SINGLE PERSON MODERN 3 LETTER MONOGRAM

This modern monogram uses 3 initials for one person. All initials are the same size and in the following order:

First Initial * Middle Initial * Last Initial

SINGLE PERSON 2 LETTER MONOGRAM

This simple monogram uses 2 initials for one person. No middle name is used for this one. All initials are the same size and in the following order:

First Initial * Last Initial

SINGLE PERSON 4 LETTER MONOGRAM

This monogram is for one person who has 2 middle names. All initials are the same size and you set it up this way:

First Initial * Middle Initial * Middle Initial * Last Initial

MARRIED PERSON WITH HYPHENATED LAST NAME 4 LETTER MONOGRAM

This monogram is for a married individual with a hyphenated last name. The proper way to set up this monogram is:

First Initial * Maiden Initial * Married Initial * Middle Initial

(Both Last Initials are Larger)

MARRIED WITH 2 FIRST NAMES & HYPHENATED LAST NAME 4 LETTER MONOGRAM

Don't let this monogram scare you! It is for an individual with 2 first names, such as Ann Marie or Bobbie Jo, and a hyphenated last name. You stack the 2 first names together on the left, use a larger married initial, and a smaller maiden initial.

First 2 Initial Stacked * Married Last Initial (Larger) * Maiden Last Initial

MARRIED COUPLE TRADITIONAL 3 LETTER MONOGRAM

The traditional married couple monogram is set up this way:

Her First Initial * Last Initial (Larger) * His First Initial

MARRIED COUPLE DIFFERENT LAST NAMES 4 LETTER MONOGRAM

This monogram uses a couple's initials with different last names. To properly format this monogram, set it up like this:

Her First Initial * Her Last Initial * His Last Initial * His First Initial

We hope this gives you a general guideline in how to properly format 2, 3, and 4 letter monogram designs. These monograms are commonly used by individuals & couples.

Modern monograms have more variations and you can put your own twist on your own designs. No matter what your format: ALL monograms bring a classic style to your project! 

It's time to start personalizing all the things and a perfect way to begin is by using the So Fontsy Monogram Starter Bundle.

Note: This post may contain affiliate links. By clicking on them and purchasing products through my links, I receive a small commission. That's what helps fund Silhouette School so I can keep buying new Silhouette-related products to show you how to get the most out of your machine!

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