Local Threads' Embroidery Secrets
Where can I find Embroidery near me? That a common question? We hope that after reading this interview with our specialists, you will understand the distinction between excellent and ordinary embroidery services in Columbus, Ohio.
Before we start the interview...
Anyone can go buy a machine and get a bunch of thread. But that doesn't mean they will be a master at embroidery. It comes with time and experience, and that's what separates Local Threads in Columbus Ohio. Because we have two people on our team with 55 years of expertise, it is no surprise that our service is second to none.
Our embroidery specialists have shared some of the most important things that they know if you wish to have embroidery that will endure a lifetime.
What is the reason somebody would use embroidery?
Embroidery is forever. Once you embroider it, it never changes the colors and never fades. It doesn't break down, it doesn't fall apart in any shape or form. When you screen print you are lucky if the logo makes its 10 to 15 years that logo starts to break down. With embroidery that does not happen. It's going to be a constant because it's a thread. It's a 3-D image of your company or school logo on a product that is never going to change.
Top things people get embroidered?
Polos, sweatshirts. jackets, and hats.
What is the difference between embroidery and screen print?
There are two significant distinctions: Embroidered custom clothing will resist fading for all time, and it gives your business a three-dimensional, professional appearance. Both have their place and that's why we're here to assist you. We can aid you in determining where to take your custom apparel with our expertise.
What is the difference between one embroidery company and another?
The people who are doing it. Anybody can run a machine. There are four important things you need to know:
- How to properly hoop
- The different types of fabrics
- The machines different speeds
- The different types of thread
For example: At Local Threads we have two embroidery experts, one with 30 years of experience and one with 25 years experience. That's very unusual, especially in this industry. You might have somebody who works there a year or two years and then leaves. We have been constantly making sure that the product is done correctly for decades.
There is an art to fine embroidery. We strive to make sure every piece is every order is the best it can be.
How can an order go bad?
There are a few reasons an embroidery order may not turn out properly. First, if the logo is not properly digitized it won’t turn out on the product. Next, if you don’t use the proper backing or if you don’t line up your backing precisely it can lead to an uneven design. An example of this is when you have a dress shirt with a nice embroidered logo. We always make sure we discuss with the client what kind of backing we should use on this. We need to know do you want something that's thick that you can physically see in the back after we cut it out or do you want a no-show?
These are the small details that set us apart from others. We spend the time making sure the quality is correct so you don’t have to.
What happens if you run the machine too fast?
It will pucker or it will fall apart. It might also get what’s called a “bird's nest,” whereby you'll just have a bunch of thread and the needle will tear your shirt apart. It requires that you take your time and do it right.
Let's get into Digitizing...
Digitizing is setting up and taking your logo through the stitch. We need to see each color and each section set up. Then the machine knows how to run that logo.
It’s important to know someone who can properly digitize. A hat, jacket and shirt will all need to be digitized differently even if it’s the same logo.
It’s important to remember Embroidery is a 3-D image, meaning it is needle and thread. It is not screened onto your shirts, caps, and jackets. It's three-dimensional. It's a thread going on top of something else. That's what makes it look so unique.
What is hooping? How does it work?
It's all the same premise but when you're hooping something it means you're getting the garment and putting a round portion of the bottom on the top, so you're almost turning your shirt or a hat into a smooth, flat surface. It makes the surface tight and simple.
There are different sizes of different hoops depending on how big the garment is. For example, for a left chest design typically you're looking at four inches wide. Whereas the width on a hat can be four and a half inches. We have seen some designs as much as 11 inches in width. It can vary a lot.
Finally, Let's talk about colors...
There are hundreds of different colors of threads. Sometimes the customer wants a particular color and it might just be a shade off of one blue to another. We are here to help them sort through their options and match it up perfectly.
Thank you to our team of experts for taking time out of their day to speak with us and if you made it this far we thank you!
We are Local Threads - A Family Owned Business in Columbus, OH that takes pride in our process and service. Contact us today to learn how we can help you with your custom apparel.