You’ve decided to step up your fashion game with custom embroidery. Great choice! But before you start, choosing the right clothing items for your embroidery projects is essential. A well-chosen garment can make your design stand out, while a poor choice can lead to disappointment. We’ve compiled a list of four tips for choosing the right clothing for embroidery to make the process hassle-free.
Consider the Fabric’s Weight and Stability
Embroidery is an art form that requires a strong foundation. Consider the fabric’s weight and stability when choosing clothing to embroider. Delicate, lightweight materials like silk or chiffon might not hold up well under the pressure of an embroidery machine, leading to puckering or tears. Instead, opt for sturdy textiles such as cotton, denim, or twill that can handle the added weight of the stitches and provide a stable environment for your embroidery.
Keep the Design and Apparel Compatibility in Mind
Not all designs look great on every type of clothing, so it’s important to select garments that will complement your embroidery project. For example, small and intricate designs might become lost on fluffy fleece jackets, while larger, bold patterns may overpower a basic t-shirt. While there are no hard and fast rules for design and apparel compatibility, it’s best to consider the overall aesthetic and balance of your final product. Ask for a sample embroidery on the fabric before committing to a larger project if you’re unsure your design will work well with a particular garment.
Account for Shrinkage in Sizing and Placement
Shrinkage is one key aspect to consider when purchasing clothing for embroidery. Many fabrics, especially natural fibers like cotton, can shrink during the washing and drying process. Either pre-wash your garments before embroidering them or choose items made from shrink-resistant materials like polyester to avoid this issue. Additionally, keep potential shrinkage in mind when determining the placement of your design, as it may shift or distort after laundering.
Read Garment Care Instructions
Before investing time and resources into your embroidery project, be sure to carefully read the garment’s care instructions. Some materials require delicate handling, while others can withstand aggressive cleaning methods. Knowing how to properly care for your embroidered items will help preserve the quality of your work.
You can create beautiful and long-lasting custom pieces that will make a statement using these four tips for choosing the right clothing for embroidery.
Consider partnering with a reputable company like Extreme Screen Prints to bring your vision to life on custom embroidery shirts. Our experienced team will work with you to choose the perfect apparel and create high-quality embroidery that will exceed your expectations. Don’t settle for mediocre results—we’ll help you stand out with top-notch embroidery.
