Posted: 17 Jun 2016 11:01 AM PDT
Apparel decoration can be tricky, and decorators may sometimes use terms and phrases you don’t really understand. With embroidered apparel, it’s good to understand the basics so you know exactly where your money is going. We covered some basic embroidery terms in a past post (What to Know Before Ordering Embroidered Apparel), but today we’re going to dive into terms more related to your specific type of embroidery decoration.
Embroidery can be as simple or as complex as you wish. There are various techniques your embroiderer can use and different tools to make your design look its best. If you want your branding to stand out, talk to your embroiderer about some of the options below.
Appliqué and Reverse Appliqué: These decoration methods are similar looking, but different in technique. Traditional appliqué is the stitching of one piece of fabric to another to create an image. Reverse appliqué is similar, but instead of adding fabric to a base, the top fabric is cut away to reveal a base fabric in a specific shape.
Applique photo from DesignsByJuJu.com
Thread Types & Colors: One of the benefits of embroidery is the fact that you are almost guaranteed a color match to your logo. Thread is available in hundreds of colors, and it’s fairly easy to match to PMS colors depending on the type of thread you’re using. When you order your promotional apparel, ask about the thread. Be specific in your requests for the decorator. Specialty threads do exist and can give your branded apparel a look that your recipients won’t forget. There is glow in the dark thread, metallic and fire resistant thread just to name a few! Also, consider safety when choosing thread. If you’re decorating something for children or pets, ask about threads made with non-toxic dyes and materials.
Embroidery topping on a towel. Photo from CraftStylish.com
Stabilizer, Backing & Topping: Stitches will sit differently on different types of fabric. Stabilizers, sometimes called “backing” help keep fabric in place for the machine so your fabric doesn’t pucker or pull where it’s stitched. If you have a very thick design, backing also helps maintain structure on the apparel. Some types of fabrics like terry cloth, commonly seen on towels or bathrobes, require a topping. This goes on top of the fabric instead of behind to keep the stitches from sinking into the thick fabric. It ensures that your logo is visible and not hidden.
Embroidered monogram photo from SouthernCharmEmbroidery.com
Monogram: If you’re personalizing apparel as a gift, you might opt for a monogram. A monogram is a style of lettering that displays initials. Most often, monograms include initials for the first, middle and last name of the recipient. Note that the middle letter is generally the initial of the last name. The traditional monogram order is first initial, last initial, middle initial. The last initial (in the center) is usually slightly larger than the other two. Some monograms only include one letter, usually the initial of the last name. Two letter monograms are usually the first and last initial embroidered in that order.
Ready to get started with a promotional apparel order? Contact HALO today!
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