How to Monogram a Double Middle Name
Monogrammed items make a great gift for grown ups, kids and new babies alike! Learn the correct way to monogram with 2 middle names to ensure your gift is correct.
As someone who grew up in Georgia, there aren’t many things quite as undeniably Southern as monograms and double names. The number of times I’ve heard people remark “that’s such a Southern thing” after spying a monogrammed tote or cap would make you laugh. In their defense, we do find lots of creative ways to incorporate them!
While a traditional first, middle and last name is relatively straightforward to monogram, what about double names? As a double middle name gal myself, I quickly discovered this is something a lot of people struggle with.
A monogrammed item is a beautiful keepsake for so many life moments. So many beautiful baby gifts can be customized with a monogram, and I have countless friends who love dressing their little girls in monogrammed smocked dresses and jumpers. A new monogram can also be a thoughtful wedding gift for a bride, with her new last name or hyphenated last name, or as a new couple’s monogram (incorporating different last names with both of their initials).
Note: Some links may be affiliate links. That means I may make a commission if you use my links to purchase, at no extra added cost to you! I only recommend products that I personally love and believe in. Full disclaimer here.
How to Monogram with Double Names
If you’re lost on how to incorporate double names in monogramming and getting around the four-letter issue, you’re in luck! I’ve had quite a bit of practice in this area, and would love to help you find the right monogram combination.
For the purposes of this article, I’ll be using my own initials: S, M, L and A.
Block Arrangement
The most common way to monogram four letters is by using the “block” monogram. In this style, all four letters are in a row in order: SMLA, or “First,” “Middle,” “Middle,” “Last.”
This is usually recommended to be done in a straightforward, unembellished font, as cursive or fancy script makes the letters hard to read.
Diamond Arrangement
Another approach for monogramming four letters is by using a diamond shape. In this style, the first initial of the first name is at the top, the first initial of the last name is at the bottom, and on the right and left sides of the diamond are the first and second middle names in that order. The first name and last name initials are larger than the middle initials.
From clockwise, starting at the top, this would S (first initial), M (middle initial), A (last name initial) and L (middle initial).
Stacked Arrangement
The stacked arrangement is another good option for a monogram with 2 middle names. With this tyle, the first letter of the last name is largest, with the remaining initials “stacked” in a small size next to it.
Go with Just One Letter
The simplest option is to have a monogram with only a single initial, usually the first letter of your last name. For me, that would be a big “A” on a towel or tote.
If your last name is short enough, you could also have your entire last name monogrammed.
Circle Arrangements
A more modern way to monogram four letters is to arrange them in a shape, like a circle. Using this technique, you can incorporate the “stacked” approach, as well as a diamond arrangement.
Drop a Letter
I’ve never been a fan of dropping a letter for a quick fix, as I feel like my entire name is important. However, that’s absolutely personal preference!
Many people with a double middle name or four names opt to drop one to have a three-initial monogram.
What About Hyphens?
Some double names include a hyphen, like “Mary-Elizabeth,” or for those who choose to hyphenate their maiden and married names.
The monogram community is divided on whether or not to include hyphens in monograms. I personally feel it looks choppy and takes away from the actual monogram design. However, if including the hyphen is important to you, the block style monogram is considered the best option for this.
It’s also important to mention that there are many “double names” that don’t include a space to make them separate words, like “AnnaLise.” In this case, only the first letter is in the monogram, as her entire first name is AnnaLise. Instead of four letters, this would be a traditional three letter monogram.
Monogram Gift Ideas
For a Baby Shower
Monograms can go on so many personalized gifts, including tote bags, favor tags, clothing, towels and more. Here are a few options for gift givers to consider for a four-letter monogram for a baby.
For a Wedding or Bridal Shower
When it comes to monogram designs and gifts for a bride or married couple, you’ll want to first be sure on the new married monogram your friend is using for her personal monogram. For a couples gift, many times the traditional format is most common: large last name first initial, with the man’s first name on the left and the wife’s first name initial on the right.
Here are some household items and other gifts you can add a family monogram or full married name to.
Final Thoughts on Monogramming Two Middle Names
I hope this article helped you as you search for your favorite way to monogram a double middle name. One last thing to be sure you consider is how large the item you’re monogramming is. Smaller items, like tumblers, look great with just a single letter. Pullovers and totes have room for more initials.
When in doubt, reach out to a local monogram shop for help with fonts, monogram style options and sizing. You might need to try multiple options to find the perfect way to monogram a double name. In the end, it comes down to a matter of personal preference and your personal spin.
If you found this article helpful, please help others find it by sharing the image below or pinning to Pinterest!
