HOW DOES IT WORK?
STEP #1: DIGITIZE THE IMAGE: Custom embroidery is primarily an automated process that converts a digital image into data which guides the operation of the embroidery machine. For this to happen, the first step is to digitise the image. This may include lettering, a logo or a visual image. Digitising converts the image into stitch data which the embroidery machine can understand. Once digitized this is sent to the embroidery machine.
STEP #2: DIRECT THE MACHINE ON WHAT IT SHOULD DO: The embroidery machine is then instructed which design we are working on. The correct threads are loaded onto the machine and the machine taught where to find each coloured thread. So for example, if the design includes some red and the red thread is on station 12 then the machine has to be taught that when stitching the red areas use station 12.
STEP #3: STABILIZE AND HOOP THE GARMENT: During the embroidery process, the garment is held in a hoop. This is a 2 piece frame which is sandwiched over the garment to keep the fabric secure during the sewing process.
STEP #4: TEST: A test sample is stitched out using the selected design, the required thread and on fabric which closely matches the finished article of clothing. There is a wide range of stabilizing options and different design and fabrics require different stabilizers.
STEP #5 STITCH OUT: When we are happy that the digitised design is correct and loaded on the embroidery machine, the garment is correctly hooped and secured, the correct threads have been selected and the machine taught where to find them, then we start the embroidery onto the finished garments. This may be a run of 5, 10 or 100 items. This is when the industrial embroidery machine earns its keep. Providing the correct maintenance is kept up to date, these machines are designed the work all day every day without missing a beat.
STEP #6 FINISH, PACKAGE, DELIVER: Finally, after each garment is embroidered, the finished work is checked, any loose threads (back and front) are trimmed, and the garment is neatly folded and placed into its respective packaging.
BENEFITS OF EMBROIDERY
OFFERS RICH COLOR: When you want red you want red and when you want green you want green, right? This is what’s nice about embroidery and working with thread versus print. When you choose the color of thread, the finished product will appear as the exact color you chose. You can pick from hundreds of colors.
DURABILITY: Stitched designs are sewn onto the actual garment. Unlike printed garments or heat transfer garments, embroidery could outlast the life of the garment. Printed or heat transfer decorated garments can have pretty good life-cycles. However, at some period of time they will begin to fade or crack, whereas, stitching does not.
OFFERS VARYING LEVELS OF DIMENSION: Printed garments can look absolutely beautiful! Your custom embroidered shirt or custom stitched hat design can achieve a 3D or puff look. Raising the stitched design makes the logo or wording look like it’s jumping out at you. It also feels good when you rub your fingers across puff embroidery. It feels like your logo is a lone emblem that’s been placed onto your cap.
STITCHED OUT EMBROIDERED PATCHES: What if you don’t want an image embroidered onto your shirt? Once you stitch an image onto your jacket, it pretty safe to assume it’s meant to be permanent. If you don’t want to apply a permanent design there is an alternative, “patches.” Embroidered patches can be used as a temporary alternative. For example, your company logo can be embroidered onto a patch. The patches can then be cut out and an adhesive backing can be applied.
PERMANENT NATURAL LOOK: What if you don’t want an image embroidered onto your shirt? Once you stitch an image onto your jacket, it pretty safe to assume it’s meant to be permanent. If you don’t want to apply a permanent design there is an alternative, “patches.” Embroidered patches can be used as a temporary alternative. For example, your company logo can be embroidered onto a patch. The patches can then be cut out and an adhesive backing can be applied.
