Unlike ink, which sits on top of fabric, embroidery pushes physical thread through the garment. This creates a premium, 3D look that lasts forever—but it also comes with rules.
1. The "Digitizing" Process
We can't just send a JPEG to an embroidery machine. Your logo must be manually recreated in specialized software, mapping out every single needle hit. This process is called Digitizing.
This is a one-time fee. Once digitized, we keep your file on hand forever for reorders.
2. The "Small Text" Limit
This is the #1 issue we see. Thread has a physical thickness. If your text is smaller than 0.25 inches tall, the needle holes will actually cut the fabric, creating a hole instead of a letter.
The Fix:
- Simplify your logo for hats/polos.
- Remove taglines or sub-text.
- Focus on the icon.
3. Hats vs. Flats
"Can I use the same file for my polo shirt and my baseball cap?"
Usually, no. Digitzing for a flat shirt (polos, hoodies) is done "center-out." Digitizing for a hat (which is curved and sewn on a rotating cylinder) requires a completely different pathing sequence to prevent the fabric from bunching up.
💡 Design Tip: 3D Puff
Want that raised, major-league look? Ask for 3D Puff Embroidery. We place a layer of foam under the stitching. Note: This only works on simple, bold shapes. Fine lines cannot be puffed!