Embroidery Guide
Professional embroidery for workwear, polos, caps and premium branded apparel. Durable, sophisticated, and wash-resistant.
What is Embroidery?
Embroidery is the art of stitching your logo directly onto fabric using coloured threads. It's one of the most professional and prestigious branding methods, giving garments a premium, quality feel that screams attention to detail.
For workwear, corporate uniforms, and premium merchandise, embroidery is the gold standard.
How It Works
- Digitisation: Your artwork is converted into a stitch file
- Hooping: The garment is secured in an embroidery hoop
- Machine stitching: Computer-controlled needles stitch the design
- Finishing: Backing is trimmed and quality checked
The digitisation process is crucial - a skilled digitiser will translate your logo into a stitch pattern that captures detail while ensuring durability.
Best For
- Workwear & uniforms: Corporate polos, shirts, jackets
- Premium look: Executive gifts and high-end merchandise
- Durability: Items that need to withstand repeated washing
- Professional image: Customer-facing staff, hospitality
- Sports teams: Club logos on teamwear
Advantages
- Premium, professional appearance
- Extremely durable - outlasts the garment
- 3D texture adds visual interest
- No fading or peeling over time
- Works on almost any fabric
Considerations
- One-off digitisation cost (typically £25-40)
- Not suitable for very intricate designs
- Gradients and photos cannot be reproduced
- Higher cost per unit than screen print
Stitch Count & Sizing
Embroidery is priced by stitch count, which relates to logo complexity and size:
- Small logos (e.g., left chest): 5,000-8,000 stitches typical
- Medium logos (e.g., back panel): 10,000-20,000 stitches
- Large designs: 20,000+ stitches (costs increase)
Maximum embroidery area depends on the garment, but left chest badges are typically 90mm x 60mm maximum.
Ideal Products
- Polo Shirts - The embroidery classic
- Jackets & Fleeces - Corporate outerwear
- Caps & Beanies - 3D puff embroidery available
- Workwear - Professional uniforms
- Towels - Hotel and sports branding
Thread Colours
We stock over 400 thread colours matching the Madeira colour chart. We can closely match Pantone colours for brand consistency. Thread colours are selected during digitisation.
Care Instructions
Embroidered items are highly durable, but for best results:
- Machine wash at 40°C or below
- Turn garments inside out before washing
- Do not iron directly on embroidery
- Tumble dry on low heat if needed
Ready to get started?
Our team can help you choose the right branding method and prepare your artwork.
Related Guides
Screen Printing Guide
Everything you need to know about screen printing for promotional products. Best for large quantities, bold designs, and durable results.
Digital Printing (DTG) Guide
Direct to garment printing for photo-quality, full-colour designs on clothing. Ideal for small runs and complex artwork.
Pad Printing Guide
Precision printing for promotional items like pens, keyrings, and corporate gifts. Perfect for curved and irregular surfaces.