DIGITIZING

The embroidery process begins with an idea or a piece of artwork. That artwork then has to be “digitized” which is the specialized process of converting two-dimensional artwork into stitches or thread. The digitizing computer software will allow numerous machines to embroider (stitch) the logo/design repetitively onto the various garments. Our files are converted from JPEG, PDF’s, PNG, to our machine file “DST”. The embroidery digitizing is normally a one-time process. It requires relatively clean artwork as a starting point.

GOING TO PRODUCTION

While the digitizing process automates the machine stitching, much of the process continues to be hands on. Before the sewing can begin, specific thread colors must be loaded by hand into the machines. A spool of thread for each color for each sewing head must be loaded. The machine itself is programmed by the operator to sew the design in a particular color sequence and a particular sewing speed. The garments must then be “hooped” individually, again by hand, and then loaded into the machine. Once the design has completed sewing, the garment is taken off the machine, un-hooped, and then sent to the next step in the production process.

SELECTING THE GARMENT | APPAREL TO BE EMBROIDERED

Selecting the type of garment/apparel material is an important consideration when embroidering. A T-shirt for example will likely have fewer stitches than denim given that the fabric is not as heavy and will not hold as many stitches. Polyester fleece, on the other hand, (and the ‘underlay’ stitches that you don’t see on the finished product) will likely have different stitches. Fleece has ‘loft’, meaning that it’s relatively thick and springy. Underlay stitching is required to ‘squash’ down the fleece where satin stitches will be placed otherwise stitches may be ‘lost’ in the springy fleece (and not be seen). Often you may use one logo on many different types of fabrics. However, to ensure the best presentation, we appreciate and recommend working with us in advance when selecting the garment and fabric type that will be embroidered.