Professional embroidery

Dabbling With Densities

2009-11-24T06:37:00.000-08:00

There are two factors that you want to keep in mind when you are trying to create a naturalistic blending of two or more colors.
In the example above the main color was digitized using a .40 mm or 4 embroidery points space between stitches, on the overlapping colors we increased the space to
.90 mm which decreased the density by more than half. This creates a smoother transition and keeps the combination of densities from getting too dense.
You also want to make sure that you keep all of your stitches as parallel as possible so that the colors will blend together and not appear to be separate shapes or objects.
Blending colors together to increase the three dimensionality of your designs is easy if you just stick to these two factors; density and direction.

Create Your Own custom Fonts

2009-11-18T08:03:00.000-08:00

In addition to creating your own fill patterns and motifs KPD compositions also allows you to create your own custom fonts. you can use an existing true Type font or create your own font from scratch. All you need to do is to save all of your letters (named to correspond to their Character Map name as 1=0031)in a folder called whatever you wish the font to be called. Save them as .lbf format files, then place the folder on your c drive in programs/KPD/fonts/characters.
You can then press shift+ctrl=F and generate the font. Now you are able to use it just as you would any other font in your program.
This is a great way to increase you available font selection at your leisure and all it costs is a little of your time.

Fill Stitches

2009-11-11T07:18:00.000-08:00

As with the other two stitch types, runs and satins, fill stitches may be manipulated very easily to create exciting new textures and effects.
Standard Fill
When you choose fill stitch you will automatically be in standard fill mode, this is the most popular fill style used. It consists of a pattern of parallel running stitches that are alternated in a predetermined pattern based upon the offset of each row of stitches to the preceding row. It is calculated in a similar fashion to laying rows of bricks. This stitch type allows you to change the density and stitch length to vary the look of the fill
Emboss Fill
The emboss fill derives it's pattern from a shape that is essentially embossed into the fill. Wherever the running stitches in the fill intersect with the image transposed onto it the needle will come down and make a stitch, so this fill pattern consists of many different stitch lengths based upon where the image and running stitches meet.
Motif Fill
The motif fill replaces the running stitches in the fill with a digitized design, which can consist of running or satin stitches. This is a great way to add a lacy effect to your designs and at the same time reduce your stitch count.
Please be aware that you can create your own patterns for both the emboss and motif fills so that you can customize them with the texture or even logo you are digitizing.
Fill stitches, of course, are used predominantly to fill large area of stitching in your designs, so why not take advantage of this large portion of your designs, by experimenting with all of the textures and effects that can be achieved by manipulating your fill properties.

Satin Stitches

2009-11-04T10:46:00.001-08:00

Satin stitches are, in my mind, the most versatile of stitch types at an embroidery designer's disposal. They can be one throw across, patterned, or be converted to a contour stitch. The nicest feature of this stitch type is that you can control and manipulate the stitch directions throughout the shape to add more life and movement.
The most impact is achieved with a true single throw satin stitch, as this will reflect the most amount of light and truly stand out against the rest of the stitch types in a designs. Sometimes however the area you need to cover is wider than a single throw will practically reach, so you really have to divide up the stitches, and you have many choices as to how you do that.
Standard pattern
The simplest way to divide up the stitches in your satin column is to apply a pattern, this can include something as simple as a random fill to the more defines corn row pattern. You can also make the stitching in each one of the patterns longer to impart more sheen or shorter to make the pattern more pronounced.
Embossed pattern
If you choose an embossed pattern you can give it a more defined texture, you can even choose your own motif to carve out of the pattern.
Contour
Opting for a contour fill can totally change the entire personality of the stitch. You can transform a silky satin stitch to a very patterned and snaky combination of undulating running stitches.
Whatever you choose be aware that you can apply just about any personality to a simple satin stitch, with the switch of a few property options.

Digitizing Tidbits and Random Thoughts

2009-10-14T07:18:00.001-07:00

We all know that you can choose to digitize a design either automatically, semi-automatically or choose to tackle the design manually, but did you know that there are a lot more decisions, some obvious and some a little more subtle. I figured that I would jot some down, and share them with you.
Here they are in no particular order.

Minimizing the details
You can only put so much detail in a design before it becomes indistinguishable.
Also including too many details will also cause thread breaks and bird nesting, because there is a limit as to how many stitches can be placed in any given area.
To pare down details try tracing the details on tracing paper with a pencil. The width of an unsharpened pencil will roughly equal the width of a bean stitch.
In the very least turn 3-D view on and view it at 1:1 ratio before you sew it out, if the detail looks good you are fairly safe that the design will also. Another thing to look for is short stitches, they are also a source of thread breaks.

Overcoming fabric types,textures and patterns
Use underlay to stabilize the design, always start with an overall running stitch underlay on stretch or slippery fabrics.

To use underlay to flatten the texture of knits such as pique, place a zig zag underlay under satins and a lattice underlay under fills.
Also use lattice underlay under fills when sewing on velvet, corduroy, and fleece.
Use edge walk running stitches under columns when sewing on twill
When sewing on caps, start in the middle and work our way out alternately from side to side. Place your underlay as you digitize each piece.
Overlapping
Always overlap the first color and then place the second color on the dividing line. If you rely on pull compensation to make your stitches overlap you lose control of the exact point where they meet.
Blending
You can either choose to blend colors by using a gradient density or by overlapping fills or satin stitches.
When using either of these methods you want to keep the stitches as close to parallel as possible, so they will blend and not separate.
Lettering for foam
By placing satin stitch at the end of each column, you can be assured that the ends of the column stitches will be perforated and the edges will be hidden.
The few random thoughts were meant to get you to think about why some embroidery problems occur and to help cut them off at the pass.

Auto-digitizing

2009-10-07T11:23:00.000-07:00

You can use autodigitizing either alone or in conjunction with your editing fuctions to create great embroidered designs with no additional effort, if you start with the appropriate artwork.
If you are using bitmap artwork it should ideally be 300 dpi and should be either the smae size or larger than your embroidered design. If you are using vector artwork, the results are even better.
Another advantage you gain when using KPD Compositions is that you can edit your artwork within the autodigitizing wizard, which saves you time and allows you to try out many different variations before finalizing you choice and outputting your design.
Autodigitizing is often dismissed as unprofessional and for beginners only, but there are many situations where autodigitizing is definately the ovoius choice for speed, accuracy and quality.

Embroidery and More

2009-10-01T06:19:00.000-07:00

When we think or talk about embroidery we usually focus in on standard lockstitch embroidery. There are, however, many different types and add-on devices which can help you to enhance, diversify and increase the originality of your embroidery services. Some of them include sequins, chenille, cording and taping, and boring. Some such as sequins and boring are just attachments which you can add to your existing equipment, but the others require the more expensive option of adding new equipment.
Today I am going to focus in on sequins. There are quite a few reasons for considering this simple and dramatic embellishment. It is fairly inexpensive, it dramatically reduces stitch count, it's very eye catching, and it is still a fairly unique offering.
Inexpensive
You can add a sequin attachment to a single head machine for approximately $1,000. to $1,500. A roll of sequins is priced anywhere from $3. to $30. depending on the volume and supplier.
Reduced stitch count
In the two examples above I have digitized a 1.5 x 1.5 inch square of sequins at 446 stitches and a 1.5 x 1.5 inch square of fill stitches at over 6,000 stitches, even when you account for the slower sewing speed it cuts the sewing time by over 90%.
Eye Catching
There is no mistaking the glitter and texture that sequins impart to any product or design, they catch your attention and keep it probably longer than any other embroidery technique.
Unique
The percentage of sequin attachments to embroidery machines in the market is still very low so you won't have to compete very aggressively to garner all of the sequin business in your areas and nationwide for that matter.
We sometimes, especially in economically challenging times, get so involved in keeping our businesses on track with past performance that we forget to look to the present and future for new ideas and potential customers, consider sequins as a way to fill in the lost business and customers with new and unexpected business and profits.

2009-09-17T07:17:00.000-07:00

We all know that we use underlay to attach the base fabric to the backing so that the garment will not move within the hoop during the embroidery process, but did you know that there are a lot more reasons, some obvious and some a little more subtle.
They are:
To overcome fabric textures and patterns
To flatten the fabrics surface
To compensate for a loose top density
To create a 3-D effect

Standard underlay
Used to attach base fabric to backing
.1 to .25 in. column stitches use center run stitch
.25 and up add parallel satin
For fill stitches use lattice underlay

To compensate for patterned fabric surfaces
Edge walk adds structure to satins on fabrics with a surface texture such as twill, pique and birds eye knits, this will serve as a base for the top stitching and keep the stitches from following the grain of the fabric and causing a stepped look.

To flatten the nap of a fabric
Terry, corduroy, velvet and any other fabric with a nap require a cross satin underlay to flatten out fibers before you embroider your design to avoid fibers showing through the stitching
A water or heat soluble topping also helps avoid this problem.

To compensate for a loose density
Leather, sheer fabrics, lame and other delicate fabric can not support a normal density without tearing.

To create a 3-D look
To get coverage without raising your density place an inset satin underlay.
Multiple layers of satin stitch underlays can be used to give your embroidery a more 3-dimensional look
Start with a narrow satin and make each subsequent layer a little wider, usually three layers is sufficient.

You are only going to reap the full benefit of underlay if you first understand why we use underlay and which type is appropriate fr your particular situation.

2009-09-09T05:40:00.000-07:00

We often talk about embroidery software and which icons do what, but in the end, it’s not all about the software, it’s your abilities that make the real difference!
If you have a real understanding of the basics of embroidery you can really make any software program do what you need. It's what you feel most comfortable using that should determine your final choice.
Let's take a look at what those basics are.

Density
It is very easy to take density for granted. When you power up your software, it will automatically choose a density for you. It could be the default density or a density based upon the fabric that you chose at start up of your new design. This is a reat point of departure but there are so many more things you can accomplish with various different densities.
If you are trying to blend two or more colors together you have to take density into consideration, because when you layer colors over colors the density will quickly build up and the reult will be a thick embroidery which will crinkle on the edges and be very uncomfortable to wear.
If you know what color fabric you are going to embroider upon you can reduce the densities of those areas of your design that are the same color as the base fabric.
If th column widths within your design vary dramatically you would need to increase the densities for the wide columns and reduce the densities of the narrow ones.
Overlapping and Pull Compensation
Using the automatic pull compensation settings of your software can solve many of your overlapping problems, however there are situations in which you will find that you need to make some changes manually. Two of the examples are illustrated above, in both the beachball and the star designs. In the example of the star the last small stitches that would have created the points of the star have been removed and replace with a single running stitch place in a perpendicular position to the satin stitches. If the satin stitches were brought to the end they would have been so small that they either would have caused thread breaks or created a hole in the fabric.
In the case of the beachball, if all of the stripes had met at the top of the ball it would have caused a hole or at the least thread breaks in the last couple of stripes. I exaggerated th overlap to keep the blue stripes from placing needl penetrations in the same place and I kept the yellow stripes from meeting at the top so that they would not cause a hole.

Ordering Your Objects

2009-08-28T08:20:00.000-07:00

One aspect of digitizing that is often ignored, especially by beginning digitizers is pathing. Pathing is the mapping out of the stitching order of the various different objects that make up your final digitized design. There are many different reasons for planning out the sewing order in advance, which include the amount of jumps and trims, the overall sewing time, and potential machine risks which can result from a poorly planned design.
Minimising color changes
Every color change that you place in your designs adds time to the overall sewing time of the design. To change from one color to another the machine must first stop and trim and then the head has to slide to the next desired color and then when the machine begins sewing again it first starts slowly to avoid the thread from pulling out of the needle and then it resumes sewing at full speed. So for every extra color change you place in your design you are adding approximately 7 seconds to the overall sewing time, or if you place 10 extra color changes you are adding 70 seconds, and if you run that design 10 times on a six head machine you are adding 60 X 70 seconds or 70 minutes. So you may not think an extra color change here or the matters too much but at the end of a day of production it can have a huge effect.
Trims and jumps
Both trims and jumps also cause the machine to stop and slow down, often times especially if you are relying on auto digitizing to create your designs the frequency these two commands id overlooked, but if you take the time to look at the sewing sequence of your design either before on your computer or while it is sewing out you can easily devise a plan for either reducing their occurrence or eliminating them all together.
Sewing time
Keeping an eye on all of these factors can greatly increase the efficiency of all of your designs.
Production Issues
The last issue that I would like to address is that of wear and tear on your embroidery machine. Trimmers, color change mechanics and jump stitch solenoids are all mechanical parts which with repeated and frequent use can become overheated and as a result fail well before their expected lifespan. If you trim twice with less than 40 stitches between the trims you are not giving the machine a chance to cool down between operations, if you do this constantly you will most definitely damage the machine. so it is important to plan out your design before you begin to digitize. A good example of this is a Field of polka dots with a fill background. If you digitize the fill first and jump and trim from polka dot to polka dote you stand the risk of damaging you trimmers, but if you digitize the polka dots first and place a fill with voids on top of it you can omit the trims entirely.
If you plan out you designs before you digitize them you can save both running time and excess wear and tear on your equipment. Your run time will be quicker and your machine will last longer.

Building Your Customer Base

2009-08-20T07:48:00.000-07:00

A major concern for all business owners is getting and keeping new customers, in our current economic climate it has become pretty much essential.
Website
Just about every business has a website, if you don't you should, but creating and hosting a website are just the first step. You then need to drive traffic to it. Make sure that your website is mentioned in everything that you do. Invoices, business cards, stationary, advertising, press releases and listings all need to include your web address.
Blog
Hosting a blog gives your current and prospective customers a place to go to see what your company is doing and any specials you are offering. Make sure that you include helpful and informative information that is going to be beneficial to your customers, so that they have a reason for returning on a regular basis. if you don't add new material on a daily basis then make sure it is added at the same time every week or month so they get into the habit of checking it at those intervals.
Newsletter
A great way to remind you customers to visit both your website and blog is a weekly newsletter, this will assure that your customers get weekly reminders to either visit your shop, website or to even call you to follow up on specials or new products.
Cold Calling
The most time intensive forms of customer connection is cold calling, but it offers the biggest return for the time invested and it opens up a two way dialog with your customers, which is a great way to make sure you have a good feel for your customers needs.
Specials, new Products and Incentives
While we have all cut our costs and our prices to the bare bones, making sales and discounts close to impossible in many cases, there is always some inventory that we need to move regardless of the price, even if we just break even. Use that product to get customers to contact you, and while you have their attention bring up your new products and embellishment techniques.
Networking
Don't forget to bring your business cards wherever you go, remember everyone needs embroidery or some kind of embellishment at one time or another, use your card to remind them to contact you when they do.
Getting Involved
Get involved with your community schools, businesses, fund raisers, library, fairs and any other social events, these are the places, events, and organizations that use and need personalization.

Embroidery File formats

2009-08-14T07:21:00.001-07:00

KPD Compositions allows to to output your designs in over 32 different file formats, which include both home embroidery and commercial embroidery file types. With all of these formats to choose from there is virtually no customer for which you are unable to produce designs. When shopping for software make sure that you start by listing all of your needs and as you view the many choices out there check off all of the feature on your list one by one.

Fabric Facts

2009-08-10T08:40:00.001-07:00

To understand the impact embroidery is going to have on the products upon which you are placing it, you first need to understand how the various different fabrics affect the designs you are embroidering on them.
Woven Versus Knit
Knits stretch and because of that they require a stable backing and enough underlay to connect the fabric to that backing so that the knit can't move during the embroidery process and in doing so, cause the design to become distorted. Woven fabrics are a lot more forgiving, they only stretch on the bias, so if they are firmly hooped and have a minimum of underlay and a sufficent backing, you should not have to worry about design distortion.
Needles
The size of your needle should relate to the weight of your fabric, a heavy weight fabric such as canvas or denim requires a larger needle. for fine fabrics you want to use a small needle for example, a 65/9 or a 70/10 as a smaller needle will make a smaller hole and do less damage to the fabric.
The point of the needle is chosen by the fabric, ballpoint for knits and sharp for woven fabrics. Ballpoint needles will push the fibers of the knit aside so that they aren't broken in the embroidery process which would cause the knit to run. Sharp needles are best for woven fabrics because they cause the least amount of friction as they pierce the fabric and make the cleanest perferation, helping to keep your lines crisp.
If you are embroidering on a fabric with a texture, whether it is knit or woven underlay is essential for flattening out the fabric so that the embroidery is not lost in the indentations or overemphasized in the raised areas. Fabric with a definite pattern such as twill or pique require a running stich underlay along the edge of the columns to keep them from following the grain of the fabric.
Each fabric has different needs once you understand how to inherent differences of
the array of goods you embroidery you will understand how to overcome them.

Amazing Appliques

2009-07-31T12:13:00.000-07:00

The introduction of appliques to your digitizing projects can reap both creative and practical rewards. The use of appliques can allow you to reduce the stitch count of your designs by as much as 80%. This will, of course, reduce the sewing time by almost as much, once you factor in the extra time necessary to place and tack down the applique or appliques.
Another benefit of using appliques, especially in large designs, is that it can be used to replace large areas of fill stitches, which can tend to make the design area stiff and uncomfortable to wear.
Digitizing
If your software has an automatic applique function (as in KPD Compositions Pro), the following steps will be added for you. First a placement line (running stitch)is digitized and followed by a stop code or color change. This will stop the design so that you can lay down the applique. Next a tack down stitch (either a zig zag or running stitch) is digitized so that the applique will be secured to the base fabric and then the applique is finished off with either a zig zag or satin stitch.
Techniques
There are a few different ways to cut out the appliques, and the choice of technique is based upon the amount of designs in the job order and the frequency that you use appliques in your designs.
Hand-cut
Hand cutting your designs is the most labor intensive and is a practical alternative only for very small jobs or samples or in an emergency when there is no time to send out the fabric to be cut. There are two methods commonly used, template and cutting on the machine. To create a template for your applique, hoop a light cardboard on you machine and sew out the applique placement line on the cardboard. You can then cut along the perforations and use this template to trace out and cut your appliques. You may also choose to cut the appliques in the hoop. To do this, digitize your tack down stitch inside the middle of the finishing satin stitch. Place a square of appliques fabric large enough to cover the entire appliqued area, and stitch it down. The remove the hoop from the machine and use a pair of applique scissors, cut along the outside edge of the applique, then place the hoop back on the machine and resume sewing.
CAD Cut
If you do a lot of applique work you might want to invest in a CAD cutter to use to cut them in-house. You can export a cut file from your software to run the machine and to assure that the applique is going to fit in your design perfectly.
Laser or water-jet cut
If you use appliques infrequently it would probably be best to send your digitized file to an applique cutting facility, the turn around time for this service can be as quick as 24-48 hours.
If your applique are large enough you might want to invest in a laser cutter or a beam laser. The advantage of a beam laser is that it allows you to cut either single or multiple appliques on the embroidery machine, which expedites the entire process.

Embroidering on Knits

2009-07-23T10:35:00.000-07:00

Every type of fabric has its own unique charactoristics, and its own challenges. Knits are no exception, needle type, backing, hooping, thread tension and proper digitizing all need to work together to produce the perfect end result.
Needle
To avoid cutting the fibers of the knit use a ball-point needle, a 75/11 should work well for any weight knit.
Backing
Tear-away backing is always the prefered choice as it is the least labor intensive to remove. however some knits are too delicate and can tear during the embroidery process so you need to turn to a no-show or organza backing which will afford more support without adding more bulk to the garment.
ToppingIf you are embroidering on a knit with a patterned texture such as pique, herringbone, birds-eye or cableknit you probably want to use a topping to flatten out the surface before you embroidery upon it.
Hooping
you do not want to stretch to knit in the hoop (with the exception of Spandex, which should be slightly stretched) you want to maake sure that your backing is tight in the hoop and the knit lies flat on top of it.
Tension
Because knits are less stable than woven fabrics they will cause satin stitches to pull in more and become thinner, especially if your thread tension is too tight. It is important to set your top tension looser than you would for a woven fabric and make sure that you bobbin tension is also loosened to make sure they are working together.
Digitizing
When digitizing for knits underlay and increased pull compensation are very important concerns. Use a lattice underlay under fills to minimise distortion and perpendicular underlay under satins to create a good base for the top stitching.
Embroidering on knits is no more difficult than anything else. If you understand why problems may occur they are much more easily remedied.

Digitizing Tips

2009-07-16T08:12:00.000-07:00

I separated the design above by color to illustrate how you can easily you can create not only the illusion of volume but also the subtle variation from one color to another.
Keep Stitch Directions Consistant
If you are trying to blend different colors together make sure that the stitch directions are parallel this will create a smooth transition from one color to another.
Decrease The Density of Overlapping Colors
Take into consideration the overall density, if you have a density of 60 stitches per inch in each of two overlapping fills or columns, the final density is the total of both or 120 Sttiches per inch, which will create a very dense and hard feeling finished embroidery. however if you reduce the individual densities to 35 stitches per inch you will end up with only 70 stitches per inch and a much more pleasing outcome.
Use a Jagged Edge to overlap Different Colors
Colors blend better if the eges that overlap are irregular. two straight edges will create a more obvious line where they meet than two jagged ones.
Vary Stitch Direction To Define Different Planes
When I tried to differenciate between the outside of the plums and the cut edge of the center, I changed the direction of the stitches and created the two separate planes of the object. The more that you want to differenciate these shapes the more of an angle you want to place the two diffent directions of stitching.
Blending different colors smoothly is easy and can add a lot of depth to your finished embroidery if you just keep these simple steps in mind.

Hooping

2009-07-06T07:42:00.001-07:00

Before you start sewing out you first garment it is usally a good idea to check the size and placement as it relates to the garment you are embroidering on.
KPD Compositions allows you to choose from 20 different garment and home decor items all in a wide range of sizes so that you can "virtually" check your placement before you start hooping them.

Auto-Digitizing

2009-06-29T07:12:00.000-07:00

Automatic digitizing often gets a bad rep, partly because most people that have been digitizing for years know that it can't be all things to all people, and this is true. It can however allow the novice to start digitizing perfectly acceptable designs, while they are learning the more advanced nuances of manually digitizing.
The key to digitizing automatically is to start out with good artwork. If you need to make changes to that artwork you can do this within the auto-digitizing process, before you translate the design into embroidery, or after the design has been converted to embroidery using the shape editor. You can also make adjustments to the automatic density, pull compensation and underlay settings.
Automatic digitizing is a very powerfull tool and one that I encourage you to use, but I also suggest that you preview the resulting design and makev sure there are no adjustments to be made before you sew out your final embroidery.

2009-06-18T07:10:00.001-07:00

Before you start digitizing a design, whether it is automatically, semi-automatically or manually, you can go to the general options menu item in, KPD Compositions, which is located under the tools heading and choose the fabric type that you will be digitizing for. This will set up the proper density, pull comensation and underlay type or types that are most appropriate for this particular design. While this is a time saving device for experienced digitizers, it is a godsend for novices as it pretty much elliminattes the need to understand the relationship between the digitized design and the quality of the finished embroidery. The more you digitize the more you will learn about what settings work for a particular fabric and which don't and you can become more and more involved with the digitizing settings and eventually defining your own unique digitizing style.

2009-06-17T06:42:00.001-07:00

I created the design above by combining 4 different flowers from my "Fabulous Florals" collection with the lettering "WILD" at the top using Fairbanks block and "Flowers" on the bottom using Bellagio script, using Compositions project based embroidery design software. To see how easy this software is to use go to the demo at www.kenparsonsdesigns.com, while you are there you can also view all of the designs in my many collections.

2009-06-17T06:40:00.001-07:00

To view a quick demo go to http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fisoYgZkypY
Ken Parsons Designs Announces KPD Compositions Advanced and Pro Two new products have been added the the KPD line; KPD Compositions Advanced and KPD Compositions Pro, both are fully functioned digitizing, editing and lettering software programs. Among their shared features are: A totally customizable user interface, which will automaticall choose the proper density, pull compensation, and underlay based upon the users fabric choice. The Autodigitizing Wizard, which totally automates the digitizing process while still allowing the user to edit the artwork and finished embroidery design. Templates, both systems come with both a neckline and circle template, which allow the user to place any design on a neckline, collar, cuff or equidistantly placed on a circle. Lettering which allows the user to create lettering on a line, arc, or morph into any shape using the Envelope feature. Create designs directly on the garment, The garment icon allows the user to bring in an actual garment pattern and choose the location or multiple locations for the finished embroidery and actually create the embroidery within that environment. STO, the built-in stitch processor works in the background so that all changes the user makes to a stitch file will not affect its sewing quality. Simple, clean and self-explanatory user interface, which keeps training and the learning curve to a minimum. KPD Compositions Pro adds: A Repeat Template for sewing patches and name tags. 100 Standard Fonts. True type lettering The ability to convert Vector art to embroidery. Advanced stitch editing and more outline editing tools. Automatic applique, Automatic fills with voids, Steil stitch, and Cross stitch fill. Motifs Artwork Tools And much much more. Right Product, Right Price Both KPD Compositions Advanced and Pro are designed to allow both the novice and professional experienced digitizer to create even the most intricate designs with ease and speed. The programs are completely customizable so that you can choose to digitize using Bezier, simple draw and freehand drawing tools. You can also choose if you wish the program to decide where each segment starts and ends and the direction of the stitching, or you can make those choices manually. For beginners KPD Compositions can be used to totally automate the digitizing process, essentially eliminating the learning curve. For the advanced the built in styles, customization of tools and hotkeys, and a built-in Stitch Processor speed up the process and provide a very comfortable and familiar user interface. About Ken Parsons Designs Ken Parsons Designs was established in 2006, and has always been a software and embroidery stock design provider. Our dealers include; Ann the Gran, Embroidery Central, Embroiderydesigns.com, and Metro embroidery threads. Pricing KPD Compositions Advanced List Price: $499. KPD Compositions Pro List Price: $1,199.

2009-06-17T06:39:00.001-07:00

We all have our favorite settings for creating lettering for differnet situations. For small lettering I like to decrease the density to 45 SPI and to add a single perpendicular running stitch as the underlay. For large lettering on a towel I like to use density of 65 SPI and a crosshatch underlay. You get the idea, and I am sure that you all have your own list of perfect combinations of settings that work just right for you. When you are creating your lettering using KPD Compositions you can save an unlimited amount of lettering styles, so that you can quickly and automatically call up the most perfect and personalized settings for the particular type of lettering you need.

What people are saying!

2009-05-21T08:05:00.000-07:00

"I have been digitizing for over 25 years and when I tried Compositions Pro I was blown away, after watching the training video I was able to start digitizing in about five minutes. It is truely remarkable," Lisa Muller
"I have always wanted to learn to digitize and getting the Compositions Pro was just the right ticket for me! My biggest concern, after money, was that it would take me weeks to learn and months before I could do something that I was proud of. It is modestly priced and easy to follow and I did my first simple project within an hour. I am progressing quickly and having fun with it now." Pat, The Avid Embroiderer
"So far from what I have seen, it looks pretty easy to use. ... If you have an understanding of other software like Illustrator, Corel Draw or even Flexisign, it should be relatively easy to pick up. I do have to say that it seems to logically be laid out with tools that make sense. I can't wait to use it more! Thanks for answering my questions."

Edgar Flor
Amazon Design Graphics, Inc.

2009-05-21T08:02:00.000-07:00

Ken Parsons Designs is now offering an upgrade to sequins and chenille for it top of the line digitizing program KPD Compositions Pro. For just $300. more you can add the capability to digitize for either sequins or chenille. These features give the digitizer the ability to tackle any embroidery job that is out there.
Fully functioned, easy to use, and totally user customizable, that is what KPD Compostions is all about. This is the software program every digitizer has been waiting for.

2009-05-07T12:00:00.001-07:00

Ken Parsons Designs Announces KPD Compositions Advanced and Pro Two new products have been added the the KPD line; KPD Compositions Advanced and KPD Compositions Pro, both are fully functioned digitizing, editing and lettering software programs. Among their shared features are: A totally customizable user interface, which will automaticall choose the proper density, pull compensation, and underlay based upon the users fabric choice. The Autodigitizing Wizard, which totally automates the digitizing process while still allowing the user to edit the artwork and finished embroidery design. Templates, both systems come with both a neckline and circle template, which allow the user to place any design on a neckline, collar, cuff or equidistantly placed on a circle. Lettering which allows the user to create lettering on a line, arc, or morph into any shape using the Envelope feature. Create designs directly on the garment, The garment icon allows the user to bring in an actual garment pattern and choose the location or multiple locations for the finished embroidery and actually create the embroidery within that environment. STO, the built-in stitch processor works in the background so that all changes the user makes to a stitch file will not affect its sewing quality. Simple, clean and self-explanatory user interface, which keeps training and the learning curve to a minimum. KPD Compositions Pro adds: A Repeat Template for sewing patches and name tags. 100 Standard Fonts. True type lettering The ability to convert Vector art to embroidery. Advanced stitch editing and more outline editing tools. Automatic applique, Automatic fills with voids, Steil stitch, and Cross stitch fill. Motifs Artwork Tools And much much more. Right Product, Right Price Both KPD Compositions Advanced and Pro are designed to allow both the novice and professional experienced digitizer to create even the most intricate designs with ease and speed. The programs are completely customizable so that you can choose to digitize using Bezier, simple draw and freehand drawing tools. You can also choose if you wish the program to decide where each segment starts and ends and the direction of the stitching, or you can make those choices manually. For beginners KPD Compositions can be used to totally automate the digitizing process, essentially eliminating the learning curve. For the advanced the built in styles, customization of tools and hotkeys, and a built-in Stitch Processor speed up the process and provide a very comfortable and familiar user interface. About Ken Parsons Designs Ken Parsons Designs was established in 2006, and has always been a software and embroidery stock design provider. Our dealers include; Ann the Gran, Embroidery Central, Embroiderydesigns.com, and Metro embroidery threads. Pricing KPD Compositions Advanced List Price: $499. KPD Compositions Pro List Price: $1,199.

Great Custom Digitizing work, Great Pricing

2009-03-18T07:33:00.000-07:00

In- House Digitizing is trusted by more than 200 small businesses monthly, ad-specialty companies and major retailers. Your embroidery machine only produces what it is fed. The quality from your machine starts with the quality of the design that you put in it. We also help you grab the attention of potential customers, and build a successful, lasting relationship with your existing customers

TEST DRIVE THEIR WORK FOR FREE !

Download their 132 FREE stock designs and run them on your machine. Just click here,
FREE DESIGNS or the link to the right. Download the PDF files to see the designs and the colour sequence.

DIGITIZING

PRICING

* Designs that will fit into a 6” circle:
$30 for 2 day delivery
$45 for next day delivery

* Jacket-back designs over 7” round:
$99 for 2 day delivery
$125 for next day delivery

Separate yourself from the rest of the pack ..
Whether you’re new to the embroidery industry, or a veteran embroiderer looking to get the most from your embroidery machines, their digitizing team will help you separate yourself from the rest of the pack by providing you with professionally digitized designs, that run smooth and look great.

http://inhousedigitizing.net/

Laser Engraving and Cutting

2009-03-13T08:34:00.000-07:00

All of the pictures and samples above are courtesy of BITO http://www.bitousa.com/LaserSamples1.htm who was kind enough to provide them to me. I tried to show you just some of the wide range of effects that can be achieved with lasers as well as the different size laser cutters that are available. There is pretty much a laser cutter to serve every need and every budget. You can cut through one layer of fabric or multiple layer of fabric to create multi-color appliques in one operation. You can also adjust the laser to just etch the surface of the fabric or of leather. The designs can be as simple as the combination etching and cutting of the flower design, or as complex as the photo-realistic portrait of the woman's face. The intricate cutwork on the woman's boot panel is illustrative of its unlimited design potential in footwear, handbags, and just about any segment of fashion. If you want to be on the forefront of garment decoration, a laser cutter should be at the top of your wish list.

2009-02-04T09:04:00.000-08:00

Ricoma has just added a new dealer to cover the North and South Carolina, Georgia, Tennessee and Kentucky areas The Company VITAL LINK MACHINE GROUP,INC. is based out of North Carolina and has over 18 YEARS of EXPERIENCE in the sales and support of embroidery and digitizing equipment.They will sell and offer training on NEW RICOMA machines, as well as buying and selling used equipment, in addition they offer supplies and repair of all brands of embroidery equipment. Their staff has over 72 YEARS of combined technical experience in the industry,
Their goal is to assist in the attainment of embroiderer's success and and growth.

Ricoma Heat Presses

2009-01-05T10:41:00.000-08:00

Ricoma TextPro Digital Garment Printer

2009-01-05T10:25:00.000-08:00

Ricoma Laser

2008-12-11T07:25:00.000-08:00

Ricoma's new RL-6030 laser engraving and cutting machine can generate a whole new customer base for your existing embroidery business, or assist you in starting a new and exciting business from scratch. Please contact us at info.ricoma.us or call us at 1888-292-6282 for more details and pricing.

The Nike Dunk Hi Premium with Laser Substraits

2008-12-09T07:01:00.000-08:00

The Nike Dunk Hi Premium with Laser Substraits

Originally used in industries such as car manufacturing, electronics and furniture texturing, laser technology has been a tool in Nike’s shoe design headquarters for years. But it was in 2003 that Nike Designer Mark Smith pioneered the use of lasers for decorating leather, fine-tuning the process to a level that allowed incredibly detailed designs to be burned into Nike products. It wasn’t long before famed footwear like the Cortez, Jordan and AF1 were etched with intricate, tattoo / graffiti graphics, models that are still coveted by sneaker collectors around the world. But laser-etched leather had a design limitation: no matter what the upper’s colorway was, the burned-out designs were always brown, leather’s interior color.

Called a “substrait,” Jesse Leyva’s team wondered if they could change this interior color by changing materials. The solution was found by using synthetic materials. The Nike Sportswear Dunk Premium uses black synthetic material with various colored interiors to achieve this multi-colored substrait effect. Each panel of the shoe contains a different color which, when the top layer is carefully etched away, is revealed in high contrast by the laser. This season, the motif is the octagon—a symbol chosen by Nike’s design team to represent the summer games in Beijing and to honor the power of the number eight in Chinese culture. A byproduct of using synthetics in the Nike Dunk upper is a reduction in the shoe’s overall weight, since leather is heavier by nature than its man-made alternative. Along with a black body that allows the colorful shapes to pop visually, a patent leather swoosh and highly perforated vamp are premium design accents that give the sneaker a stealthy, yet sophisticated air.

Extend The Life of your Machine

2008-10-22T10:52:00.000-07:00

Just like your car, your embroidery machine needs regular maintenance, to assure it is working at its optimum performance level and maximize its lifespan.

Oiling

Embroidery machines run at high speeds and high speeds create friction and heat, proper oiling reduces that friction, and the damage it can cause. There are oiling ports all over your machine and the manual clearly outlines the lubrication intervals for each port. After oiling make sure there is no excess oil, which can stain the products you are embroidery.

Cleaning

Thread creates lint as it is drawn through the needle, dust is in the air, when you combine them with oil, particularly in the hook assembly of your machine, a paste is created which can affect the tension on your bobbin thread and ultimately seize the hook. To avoid this it is necessary to clean the hook assembly area with a brush or canned air at least once a week. Also check your bobbin case to make sure the thread path is clear of this same oily residue.

Lubrication

Thee are areas of your machine which require a heavier lubricant than oil, those areas require greasing, you can find the required schedule in your manual.

Regular Check ups and Maintenance

It is always a good idea to schedule a machine check-up with your technician at least once a year. The technician can determine if there are potential problems with your machine that can be remedied before they develop into larger issues which can interfere with your productivity.

In the long run, the small amount of time it takes to take proper care of your machine will be more than made up by the increased performance and productivity you will ultimately achieve.

Embroidery Essentials

2008-10-22T07:42:00.000-07:00

Accessories might seem to be a fairly dry subject, but threads, needles, and backings are the heart of the embroidery industry; without them there would be no embroidery. They make up what embroiderers create, package and present to their customers. Without these tangibles, all our customers would be presented with are ideas. It is therefore exciting to find and explore the uses of new and unique products, which can either change the personality of the product or ease the production process.

In fashion today, embroidery is big and it is present in every form. There is hand embroidery, chain stitch embroidery, cross stitch and lock stitch embroidery, all equally sharing the spotlight. Along with this new found notoriety has come a more sophisticated appreciation and awareness on the part of the consumer. Buyers see more embroidery on a regular basis than ever before. They also see a myriad of thread types and weights combined with varied densities and stitch types.

In response to this thread manufacturers are developing new thread options not just to feed the needs of embroidery producers, but also those of the newly educated consumers.

Of course, the new look is not created by thread choice alone; it involves fabric choices, embroidery techniques and digitizing innovations. New fabrics often require the development of new needles, backings, toppings and other accessories. They also may require new hooping and alignment guides to facilitate the coordination with the grain of the fabric or its pattern. Sheer fabrics require their own set of digitizing rules and backing considerations. The list goes on and on- each new product, fabric, thread or digitizing technique can produce a domino effect touching every aspect of the embroidery production process.

Corporate Couture

2008-10-15T09:41:00.000-07:00

Mixing embellishment techniques can create spectacular results.

The typical corporate identity goal of the past has morphed into a much more fashion forward statement. While the appeal of logoed garments started out with the goal of creating a unified and consistent corporate identity, companies no longer want that identity to match that of their competitors. Companies are finding it essential to stand out from the pack and for many, multi-media embellishment options have proven to be incredibly successful.

There are many options outside of the techniques discussed in the article such as foiling, direct to substrate printing, embossing, transfers, sublimation and screenprinting, but owing to space constraints, I am concentrating on appliqués, laser cutting and engraving, sequins, soutache, puffy foam and chenille.

Applique
Applique, the addition of a separate piece of fabric to act as a section of your design, is the most popular technique employed in embroidery for many reasons. It is easy, doesn’t require any additional equipment, has a very rich polished look, and it can save you money in the long run by significantly reducing the manufacturers production time. Even though it requires time to lay down the appliqué piece or pieces along with the additional expense of having them pre-cut, these expenses are easily offset by up to an 80% reduction in stitch count. This is also a great alternative because manufacturers who offer this option are readily available.

Laser etching and cutting
The most exciting addition to the world of embroidery in recent years is laser cutting. While lasers have been used to cut appliqués before they are applied to the garment, the new beam lasers actually cut the appliqué on the garment itself during the embroidery process. They can also be adjusted to etch the surface of the fabric to match any artwork or photograph. This opens up the doors for more elaborate and detailed appliqué shapes as well as the addition of etched graphics which can take your logo or design in a much more multi-leveled and textural direction.

Sequins
While sequins might initially seem to be an unlikely fit in the corporate identity world, there are many appropriate applications in conjunction with fundraisers, events and customer giveaways. Sequins add a unique high-end look to caps and bags. A few sequins can spice up a design and because they can take the place of thousands of stitches, reduce its cost. Sequins can also transform to most mundane design into a great attention grabber.

Soutache
Soutache or cording is applied to the embroidered design through the addition of a cording foot. It can be used to create three dimensional lettering or to add dimension and texture to areas of your design or logo you wish to emphasize. It can only be used to create very simple shapes but when paired with standard embroidery you can achieve fine detail and rich texture.

Puffy Foam
Puffy foam is a thin layer of foam that is laid down before the design is stitched out. Designs need to be specifically digitized for this process, as the needle penetrations perforate the foam as the stitches cover it, trapping it under the areas of your design you wish to elevate or raise up above the surface of the design. The remainder of the foam is torn away leaving only the pieces enclosed under the embroidery. This is a great way to make a logo gain prominence with a design. Remember, however any design created with foam can not be dry cleaned as the fluid will melt the styrene foam.

Chenille
Texture has always been the major draw to embroidery, but the traditional textural techniques alone can make your logo all too similar to your competitor. This is where Chenille comes in. Chenille is created using two different stitches; chain and moss. The moss stitch consists of loops of yarn, and the chain stitch is a flat stitch primarily used to make the edges of the moss stitch look neater and more consistent. Chenille has always been a specialized sector of the embroidery industry, which makes it more difficult to find a supplier. Corporations, schools, teams, fashion designers, organizations, fraternities, sororities, clubs, individuals, movie studios, Grand Prix and Motorcross, pop and country music stars, and sporting goods team dealers all use chenille embroidery and the demands are greater than the services available, so if you decide to go this route make sure the manufacturer can fit your needs and time frame.

Money and time Savings
While choosing to combine various embellishment techniques is usually a design decision, the combination of other decoration techniques with traditional embroidery can also make the product more cost effective. Embroidery is the most costly embellishment technique, by replacing portions of your design with less expensive options you can reduce the production cost of the entire process.

When deciding on a multi-media design, you should start by considering your options. Then it is necessary to find an advertising specialty distributor or embroider with a knowledge of the processes and access to the equipment to produce the desired embellishment combination. Last you need to make sure that the cost is justified and fits within your budget. Endless multi-media combinations continue to be increasingly available, so it is easy to choose the combination that works best for you.

Choosing The Right Stitch Type

2008-09-29T11:24:00.000-07:00

Satin stitches take center stage because they reflect the most light (shiniest). Use this stitch type for whatever you want to be most prominent in your design. Running stitches and fill stitches are much duller because they are comprised of small stitches which don’t reflect as much light. To increase the prominence of these stitch types increase their stitch length. When you vary stitch types and the direction of those stitch types within your designs you increase the interest and complexity of the overall design. Embroidery is an art form with texture. We create more textural interest when we vary stitch type and direction. We basically use running stitches for detail work. Satin are used for filling thin areas and borders and for creating focal points in our designs. Fill stitches are used for filling large areas with stitching.When you vary the direction of the stitches in your design you assure that the light will hit the design at different times from different angles, this gives the design a lot of life. You can also use this to create 3-dimensionality in the design. As you change the angle of the stitches you can make the area of the design recede or jut out.By experimenting with the different stitch types and direction you can come to realize what a huge impact this can have on the effectiveness of your embroidery.

A Printing Revolution

2008-09-29T09:48:00.000-07:00

Probably the largest advance in the area of garment decoration in decades, direct to substrate printers, are rapidly increasing the practicality of low volume printing. Now last minute printing orders or small run fill-in orders are no longer a problem. To buyers of promotional products, this technology is a boon for many reasons. The technology essentially eliminates set-up costs, allows for any size order, and gives you the detail and vibrancy of screenprinting while maintaining the hand of the fabric.
While embroidery is the decoration choice for uniforms and corporate image apparel, there are times when either the quantities or costs are a consideration. In the past screenprinting and transfers were the only other alternatives. Now you have a new weapon in your arsenal of low cost product choices.

The Process
Direct to Substrate printers work in much the same way as office ink jet printers. Their main advancement over a traditional ink jet printer is that they allow for the printing of vibrant colors on both Black and White 100% and cotton blend garments. Some fabrics do require pre-treating, and all fabrics require curing to make the image permanent. Direct to Substrate Printing, is exactly that, you print directly onto the item. Unlike other solutions that use inkjet technology, the DTS printers does not print onto a "transfer material" like Iron-On's. The DTS prints your image directly onto your shirt or other object. With Screen Printing, you must first separate the image into "color separations". From these separations you then create screens to which the ink is "pressed through" and onto your garment. After the print process you must clean the screens for reuse, using harsh toxic chemicals. This is time consuming and adds to the expenseThere are a few limitations to screen printing. First, screen printing can only be used on a limited number of items and garments. The DTS’s can print on textiles and non-textiles alike! Screen printing has a limited resolution. On top of that, you must create a screen for every color you use. DTS printers hve an amazing resolution and can print millions of colors. The DTS printers require no screens, little image prep time and prints shirts in seconds.

Cost Consideration
One thing that you might want to take into consideration when planning an order is that the cost for light colors on dark garments is usually higher as the process is more time consuming. The additional cost is due to the additional time it takes to print on dark substrates.

Because there is relatively little set up required to prepare a print, this method can be very cost effective.

Advantages
Another advantage to DTS is that it combines very well with embroidery, Because the process does not affect the hand of the fabric, embroidering on top of it is no problem at all. Because you can print just about anything from photographic detail to bold graphics, DTS allow you to create precision images with unlimited blending of colors which is not possible with embroidery alone. You can then add depth and texture with embroidery on top of the image, to create a focal point. This combination affords both the detail from the DTS printer and texture from the embroidery.
DTG printing can also be combined with screenprinting, which is especially advantageous if you have a design that is constant such as a logo which needs to be combined with different names or titles. The logo can be screenprinted in bulk and the individual names or titles can be added later using the DTS printer.
While DTS printers are not the answer to all of your decoration needs, they certainly offer a very good alternative to screenprinting in situations where screenprinting would be cost prohibitive.

Home Decor

2008-09-17T06:20:00.000-07:00

The new "Do It Yourself" home design industry is flourishing. Businesses such as Home Depot, Lowes, and Builders Square are located in just about every town in the country, and that is where people are shopping, in order to do as much of the work themselves. Saving money and getting creative with our homes is a very popular hobby. for many is relaxing and at the same times allows you to get the exact look you want, in a very economical way.
Embroidery is a perfect tie in to this bureoning industry. Embroidery is all about customization. When we embroider something, we make it unique. This is a particularly desirable concept when we are talking about designing our own private oasis away from the hustle and bustle of daily lives. What better way to design your own environment than by embellishing it with embroidery, which reflects your unique tastes and interests?
Aside from its personalization abilities, it can also be a design tool. Embroidery can be used as a unifying design element to tie a room together. You can use it to add the wallpaper design to the guest towels in a bathroom. It may be used to echo a carpet pattern on a throw pillow or to change the personality of an ordinary item.
For example, take a simple white pillow and add a blue anchor, and it becomes the perfect accesory in the cabin of a yacht or the back deck of a cutty cabin. Add some bold abstract orange daisies and the pillow becomes the perfect accent for a 60's themed Soho studio. If you add heaps of building blocks it becomes the perfect addition to a child's playroom.
The home decor segment of the embroidery industry is not an easy one to break into. You often need the right connections or need to be in the right place at the right time, but if you do it can be very lucrative and create tons of word of mouth business.

Bobbins Up

2008-09-12T07:46:00.000-07:00

As embroiderers, our biggest concern about the appearance of our end product is focused on the top. However, bobbin thread also plays an important role in the embroidery process. If the bobbin thread is too tight, the embroidery ill pull in, causing running stitches to disappear and columns to look too skinny. If the bobbin thread is too loose, you will see it on the top of the embroidery, and that might even be worse. In addition to tension, there are other points to consider, such as the many different bobbin thread choice from which to choose- cotton, cotton poly blends, monofilament polyester and spun polyester.
On top of that, it comes in many different packages, such as cones, and pre-wound bobbins. If that isn't enough, pre-wound bobbins come with or without cardboard sides and magnetic and non-magnetic.
In most cases we don't care what the bobbin looks like as long as the top of the embroidery looks fine. The are, however, times when the back is just as important as the front. When embroidering on director's chairs, for example, there is not really any practical way to hide the back, so it becomes important to make sure the back looks as good as possible. Napkins and Handkerchiefs are two more product where this also applies. One way to make the back look better is to wind your own bobbins using the same thread you are using for the top stitching. This will make the back of you embroidery look much the same as the top. There is also the issue of backing, when the back side of the embroidery is visible you don't want any backing showing. For most woven fabrics you can use a tear-away backing, in which case the excess backing can be torn away after the embroidery is done. There are instances where you don't want the backing to show through the embroidery, in those cases you can use a water or heat soluble backing.
Bobbins Up
Reverse or bobbin embroidery is another process where the bobbin takes center stage. The reverse embroidery technique uses the bobbin thread as the finishing thread. This is usually accomplished using metallic or floss thread in the bobbin case, which you combine with a similarly colored rayon thread in your needle. Since the finished side is the back side, make sure that you hoop the fabric upside down. Your tensions should be set so that the bobbin thread is pulled to the top of side of the fabric. (loose bobbin, tight top thread) This will ensure that the top thread is invisible in the finished embroidery. Because in the case of floss, you are working with heavier thread, your density should be lowered to about 30 stitches per inch. The finished result will look as though the the thread was hand- sewn using a loop stitch from the bottom.
The thread you choose for your bobbin can have a profound effect on your finished product. It can add to the professional look of the design, it can add texture or it can even make up your finished design. These are just some of the options that you have for bringing you bobbin thread to the forefront of your embroidered creations.

Embroidered Patches

2008-09-04T11:13:00.000-07:00

Embroidering on Pre-made patches is much easier than you might have thought. Pre-cut blank patches are readily available. While patches can be purchased with a heat seal backing, they can be more of a challenge to embroider on. The heat seal backing can cause your needles and hook assembly to be gummed up causing tension problems. You can add a heat seal backing or peel and stick backing after you finish embroidering the patch.

You can use the repeat key on you embroidery machine to enter in the dimensions from center to center of your patches in both the X and Y directions. This will make sure that you matches will you uniform and further automate the process.

Patch Frames

Patch Holder Attachments for Embroidery Machines allow for the simultaneous attachment of up to 12 separate patches within the same frame, eliminating the need for constant interruption of labor and increasing the productivity of your workforce.
The patches are held in place by spring loaded frames that hold the patches in place firmly without leaving marks. Patch holders are made to any size, shape and for any machine. This handy product will increase your quality, productivity and profit.

Adhesive Backing

An alternative to patch frames is to use peel and stich adhesive cut-away backing within either your border frame or you largest hoop. Use you copy and repeat function on you machine keyboad as you would with a patch frame. After you run you first set of patches trace the patches on the backing and then carefully cut around the embroidery to remove the patches while keeping the backing in the frame. You now have a patch frame holder which can be used over and over. You might want to slip a piece of tear-away backing underneath and replace it for every run.

There are not many companies out there that offer low volume patch orders, using either of these techniques will allow you to easily take advantage of this luctritive niche market.

Planning Work Flow

2008-09-04T09:44:00.000-07:00

Simple preparation is often all you need to turn a potentially negative situation into a positive one. Every year at this time, we receive last minute orders for personalized embroidered items. To avoid the rush this year, you need to put yourself in the forefront of your prospective customers' minds before they start planning for the gift-giving season.
Review your records and track the business flow from the previous year. Determine which times were the busiest, and plan on hiring extra help during those times. It is important to factor in the training period for new or temporary workers, as they can only begin being productive once they know what they are expected to do.
The best approach to a busy season is to take a proactive stance and control the workflow. One method of doing this is to offer you customers an incentive to order early. A discount for ordering early or an up-charge for last minute orders might be all they need to place their orders early. A catalog is another way to stimulate interest and get you customer thinking about their holiday needs. Another idea for generating orders early is to host a holiday home shopping party. Assemble samples of embroidered holiday related garments to peruse. Remember keep it simple Limit you inventory choices and choice of designs and colors. You want to spend their time ordering, not deciding what to buy.
Of course these are just some ideas for controlling your shop's productivity during a rush season. Throughout the year you will experience both slow and busy periods. If you identify these trends and take action to control them you can keep you shop running smoothly all year. We all think that being busy is a good thing, but if you can stretch that busy season into a slow one you can reduce stress in both slow and busy times.

Adding Texture

2008-07-30T10:30:00.000-07:00

The practice of using puffy foam underneath satin or column sitiches to create a 3-D look to parts of your embroidery has been very popular on and off for the past at least ten years but this method of creating raised areas of your design becomes totally impractical if the garment upon which the embroidery is being placed is to be dry cleaned. The dry cleaning solution wil dissolve the foam and leave you with merely a very, very loose satin stitch. Another method to consider is to first digitize a skinny column stitch in the center of the final column stitch at full density. Then follow that with a slightly wider column stitch on top of that but still inside you final column stitch width and then finally finish that with your finished and top column stitch. Because none of your needle pentrations are in the same place you will not experience thread breaks, and you will end up with a significantly raised column stitch, which can serve as the focal point of your design. For example if you are digitizing a bouquet of roses and you want some of them to appear to more in the foreground use this underlay technique in varying degrees underneath the column stitches that make up those flowers. One row of underlay stitches under the roses you want in the mid-ground and two rows under the ones in the foreground and none under the ones you want to appear in the background. Try it it works. Good luck.

Becoming A Commercial Embroiderer

2008-07-23T07:31:00.000-07:00

The only real difference between commercial embroidery and home embroidery is the fact that commercial embroidery is made to be sold. You may not think that this is a big difference, but it truly is. When you are embroidering as a career, you are creating for someone else and when you are finished, the embroidery is theirs. You can lose minutes, or even hours, of time contemplating the infinite designs, techniques and uses embroidery affords, and this is the fun and exciting aspect of embroidery if you are creating for pure enjoyment. It is the danger if you are trying to make a living. This is the quandary - to put enough of your-self into your work to make it exciting, but not so much that you get lost in it. This is just one of the ongoing creative battles you will have with yourself. The other is to design for your customers and not yourself. There is difference between quality and taste. When you are embroidering for sale you must always create a quality product, but it doesn't necessarily have to be designed to suit your own taste. If you can remember to keep your customer's needs at the forefront of your design decisions, you will stay on the right track. Additionally, a new factor is introduced that is called a profit. If you don't make a profit, you really aren't in business. To ensure a profit you have to make sure that you charge more than the embroidery costs to make. One tactic is to find the right customer. Everything is relative, so a price that is exorbitant to one can be reasonable and fair to another. Take something as simple as an embroidered pillow. As an embroiderer you can offer something uniquely designed to not just coordinate with a room, but to actually act as a design force to tie together disparate portions of the design. This way your custom embroidered accessory becomes an indispensable part of the room as well as being a bargain at any price. Another way to lower costs is to design with cost reduction in mind. You can lower embroidery time by reducing stitch count and by replacing large filled-in areas with applique. You can also reduce design time by incorporating stock designs rather than digitizing your own unique designs for every product. What embroidery can achieve - whether it is enjoyed as a hobby or as a business - is to produce something totally original, essentially from nothing. The only things you need are skill and imagination, and if you posses these two gifts you can satisfy the needs of even the most discriminating customer. Add to this the ability to scale back your projects to fit within a budget and you will corner the market.

2008-07-23T06:49:00.000-07:00

Fashion embroidery requires a very different sensibility than most other types of commercial embroidery. When we create logoed embroidery we are bound by a long list of absolutes. The colors, design and in many cases, even the stitch types are already predetermined for us, and all we have to do is reproduce the design in embroidery. When we create fashion embroidery, however, we usually start with a much less finite point of departure. We might start with a pre-assembled garment in need of a little more personality, or a garment screaming to be monogrammed, or even a bolt of fabric waiting to be transformed into that absolutely perfect and unique outfit. All of these starting points offer many more options and, at the same time, many more decisions. I feel that the most important place to start is with the motivation for using embroidery.
The Embroidered Design
Embroidery can be used to create a focal point on a garment, or it can be used to lend both interest and texture in a much more subtle application. Depending on which of these effects you wish to achieve, your approach will differ. To create a focal point, your color palette would probably be bold and contrast with the base fabric of your garment. If you choose the more subtle approach, your color choices would probably contain different values of the same color family, or a collection of pastels on lighter fabrics, or rich colors on dark fabrics. Another choice to be made is the overall shape of your embroidered design. This step is probably the one that is most often ignored in the design process. Thumbing through a stock design catalog, you will probably notice that many of the available designs are created with overall square, rectangular, round or oval shapes, as this makes it very easy to personalize them by adding lettering. These designs can, however, be difficult to use in fashion embroidery and can give your end product a generic look. Using your editing tools to remove either the border or background of the stock design, thus giving it a much more natural and irregular shape, can often solve this problem. Irregular shapes allow the design to blend more seamlessly with the garment, as opposed to more geometric and regular shapes.
Density
Another underexplored element crucial to successful fashion embroidery is density. When creating garments, especially those made of knits and lighter fabrics, the drape of the fabric is very important. If the stitch density within your embroidered design is too heavy, it can interfere with this drape and ruin the lines of the garment. When working with lighter fabrics, it is often better to rely on underlay to make your stitching more opaque rather than increasing your density.
Picking the right designs, colors, placement and configuration makes embroidery fit as an indispensable and integral design element.

Assessing Your Productivity

2008-07-16T11:02:00.000-07:00

No matter how streamlined your embroidery shop is, there is always room for improvement. Different production methods are worth exploring due to the new and different products and processes that are constantly surfacing. All of them will require different solutions at one time or another. So, as the work we produce becomes more diversified, we need to re-evaluate how we can best use our facilities.When we talk about production, we usually start with machine speed, stitch counts and the amount of shifts necessary to complete a job. We start here because these three aspects are the basics for determining the time frame necessary to complete an order.There are, however, other variables which should be considered in the process. Some of these include shop layout, operator’s workload, even the amount of jumps and color changes in a design, but the list is really endless. Every aspect of your business, no matter how inconsequential it may seem, affects productivity. Therefore, on a regular basis, it is a good idea to sit back and take a fresh look at your embroidery operation. This doesn’t mean it is necessary to make regular changes to your embroidery operation. If, upon close inspection of your plant, you find no changes are needed, that is gratifying too.The important lesson to be learned is the necessity of objectively assessing your current processes. Once you are able to look at everything with fresh eyes, you can logically assess all your practices and eliminate those that are either redundant or have simply become obsolete.

Embroidery Supplies

2008-07-15T12:36:00.000-07:00

The secret of perfect embroidery is based on an attractive design and the right thread colors. True perfection, however involves much more than what is seen on the surface; it also depends upon the optimal combination of fabric, needle, thread and backing, as well as the ideal registration of the embroidery machine. Selecting the right supplies for your next job will be much easier if you have a clear idea of the properties of these essential products.ThreadsThere are a number of first-rate suppliers of embroidery materials around the world. These companies offer a variety of threads made of different fibres, such as Rayon, cotton, wool, polyester, polypropylene, nylon and acrylic. Regardless of your needs--whether your embroidery calls for thread resistant to abrasion, chlorine or even fading--chances are you will find exactly what you need. Rayon thread, one of the most popular, is known for its softness and sheen. It is an ideal choice for embroidering ladies, men's and children's wear, as well as trendy sportswear. But, despite Rayon's qualities, this thread is not suitable for every application. For instance, it is not recommended for blue jeans, basic sportswear or work clothes that undergo industrial laundry conditions or the addition of chlorine to the wash. For these items, polyester thread would be the better choice. If your goal is to achieve an exclusively natural look, cotton and woolen embroidery yarns are an excellent choice. Cotton threads, in particular, are very attractive when used to embellish country dècor or fashion. Woolen threads, on the other hand, have a duller visual aspect that makes them more compatible with wool, knitwear and linens. For those special projects that call for a distinctly different thread, today's digitizers/designers have technology to thank for providing them with an exciting collection of novelty threads, including both metallic and light-reactive threads. With such unique products on the market, the doors to artistic expression are wide open. The one caveat that applies to these threads is that they are not usually chlorine or abrasion-resistant, so if these criteria are of importance, polyester thread should be used instead.

Backings

When creating beautiful embroidery, choosing the right backing is every bit as critical as choosing the right thread. For non-stretch materials, it is possible to use a non-woven backing without coating, while, for stretch materials, a non-woven with coating is preferred. Therefore, non-woven fabrics with coating may always be used, but their handling is more complicated and they are more expensive. It makes good sense to have a selection of white non-woven backings for sheer fabrics and black/anthracite ones for dark fabrics. Although non-woven backings are removed after the embroidery process, there might be remainders on the fabric itself, and this can have an unprofessional effect. If embroidery companies want to avoid the inconvenience of having a huge inventory of different quality non-woven backings, they should purchase non-wovens, as needed, for each order. When trying to determine the appropriate weight of backing to buy, the decisive factor is the fabric on which the non-woven backing is to be used. The rule is simple: The heavier the non-woven, the more suitable it is for heavier materials. While on the subject of backings, another product that deserves mentioning is self-adhesive backing. In addition to providing excellent stability, this product eliminates the need for hooping, making it the perfect backing for certain situations.

Bobbins & Needles

Provided the tension on your machine is correctly regulated, bobbin thread should not appear on the right side of your embroidery. For this reason, it is not a major issue whether you use black or white thread; although, in general, it is recommended that you use a black-coloured bobbin thread for dark colours. Bobbin thread on the cone is less expensive (because someone must wind the bobbins), but, for embroidery purposes, the pre-wound variety is often preferable because its delivery is smoother.
It is common knowledge that better-quality embroidery needles result in greater productivity and a higher quality of embroidery. The embroidery needle system (DB x K5) developed by Organ Needle offers some great advantages compared to the former system (287WK). Benefits include an easier and softer thread passage, less missed stitches and higher strength. Embroidery needles with a medium ball point (SES) have the advantage that not only light fabrics, but also heavy basic fabrics, are pricked softly. Very good embroidery results can be achieved with woven fabrics and knitwear, as well as with thin leather. The needle count, or strength, is determined by the dimension of the long groove and the needle eye. A new development in needles is the DB x K5 Innova Duo system developed by Lammertz Germany with an additional groove on the furrow side, which leads to even better running properties of thethread. The new embroidery needle system is recommended for difficult embroidery designs on difficult materials, especially, when using extremely long satin stitches, or for embroidery designs with high densities.

More Useful Products

Any discussion about embroidery supplies should include temporary adhesive sprays. This useful product is one of the most important aids for embroidering large surfaces, or for using with appliquès or emblems. The decisive criterion for temporary adhesives is, of course, the gluing property. The adhesive strength should last for approximately one day, yet be easy enough to remove after sewing. Furthermore, the glue should not gum up the embroidery needles. Embroiderers looking for a way to make their designs even more expressive will have already explored the use of appliquès. The availability of materials suitable for appliquè is huge. One popular fabric is permanently coated twill, which produces quality monograms and is also suitable for embroidering logos, badges and emblems. There are so many amazing embroidery products in today's market that embroiderers will find it easier than ever to produce truly unique, beautiful embroidery. It's all a question of exploring the wealth of products out there and experimenting with them.

Men's Fashion Embroidery

2008-07-15T09:39:00.000-07:00

Embroidery is everywhere. Blouses, shirts, trousers, skirts, jackets and shoes all sport some type of embroidery. Another exciting trend is the combination of tie-dye and screenprinting with embroidery, which offers a very fresh, new look.Embroidery is popular because it is readily available, but also because designers have found ways of making it look anything but traditional. This has made it not just popular, but on the cutting edge and very desirable.Embroidery is once again hot, especially in the new men’s wear lines. Textures derived from a variety of different threads, tropical patterns, geometrics, hand-driven run and chain stitches are used together or separately to form totally new looks.In examining some of the fashion embroidery shops around the globe, we notice some very obvious facts. Most fashion embroidery is produced flat on either pre-cut pieces or on flat goods, which are cut later. Lasers have been added to many of the production rooms for various purposes: to cut individual pieces, cut designs in garment sections, create decorative borders or etch the surfaces of fabrics.As for the new men’s wear fabrics, we see natural fibres used with both ethnic-inspired and bold graphic designs, but we also see new synthetic fibres in sheer and opaque forms paired with anything from cross-stitch to multi-layered appliquéd fabrics and trims.This is a very exciting time for men’s wear because of the continued rise of the casual and corporate casual sectors. At the forefront of all of this is embroidery. Designer’s needs are fuelling expansion of embroidery shops, which is increasing the size of our overall global industry.

Deduct The Cost Of Your Embroidery Machine

2008-06-02T07:42:00.000-07:00

Introduction
You can elect to recover all or part of the cost of certain qualifying property, up to a limit, by deducting it in the year you place the property in service. This is the section 179 deduction. You can elect the section 179 deduction instead of recovering the cost by taking depreciation deductions.
Estates and trusts cannot elect the section 179 deduction.
This chapter explains what property does and does not qualify for the section 179 deduction, what limits apply to the deduction (including special rules for partnerships and corporations), and how to elect it. It also explains when and how to recapture the deduction.
Useful Items - You may want to see:
Publication
537 Installment Sales
544 Sales and Other Dispositions of Assets
954 Tax Incentives for Distressed Communities
Form (and Instructions)
4562 Depreciation and Amortization
4797 Sales of Business Property
See chapter 6 for information about getting publications and forms.
What Property Qualifies?
Terms you may need to know (see Glossary):
Adjusted basis
Basis
Class life
Structural components
Tangible property
To qualify for the section 179 deduction, your property must meet all the following requirements.
It must be eligible property.
It must be acquired for business use.
It must have been acquired by purchase.
It must not be property described later under What Property Does Not Qualify.
The following discussions provide information about these requirements and exceptions.
Eligible Property

To qualify for the section 179 deduction, your property must be one of the following types of depreciable property.
Tangible personal property.
Other tangible property (except buildings and their structural components) used as:
An integral part of manufacturing, production, or extraction or of furnishing transportation, communications, electricity, gas, water, or sewage disposal services,
A research facility used in connection with any of the activities in (a) above, or
A facility used in connection with any of the activities in (a) for the bulk storage of fungible commodities.
Single purpose agricultural (livestock) or horticultural structures. See chapter 7 of Publication 225 for definitions and information regarding the use requirements that apply to these structures.
Storage facilities (except buildings and their structural components) used in connection with distributing petroleum or any primary product of petroleum.
Off-the-shelf computer software.
Tangible personal property. Tangible personal property is any tangible property that is not real property. It includes the following property.
Machinery and equipment.
Property contained in or attached to a building (other than structural components), such as refrigerators, grocery store counters, office equipment, printing presses, testing equipment, and signs.
Gasoline storage tanks and pumps at retail service stations.
Livestock, including horses, cattle, hogs, sheep, goats, and mink and other furbearing animals.
The treatment of property as tangible personal property for the section 179 deduction is not controlled by its treatment under local law. For example, property may not be tangible personal property for the deduction even if treated so under local law, and some property (such as fixtures) may be tangible personal property for the deduction even if treated as real property under local law.
Off-the-shelf computer software. Off-the-shelf computer software placed in service during the tax year is qualifying property for purposes of the section 179 deduction. This is computer software that is readily available for purchase by the general public, is subject to a nonexclusive license, and has not been substantially modified. It includes any program designed to cause a computer to perform a desired function. However, a database or similar item is not considered computer software unless it is in the public domain and is incidental to the operation of otherwise qualifying software.
Property Acquired for Business Use
To qualify for the section 179 deduction, your property must have been acquired for use in your trade or business. Property you acquire only for the production of income, such as investment property, rental property (if renting property is not your trade or business), and property that produces royalties, does not qualify.

Embroidery Sales Basics

2008-05-21T07:48:00.000-07:00

For many embroiderers, the most daunting task is actually meeting with prospective customers, introducing yourself and your company’s services. However calling on customers is only intimidating if you are not prepared. In order to get ready to hit the ground running you might want to run through the checklist below and make sure that you have done your homework.

Are you a good listener?
Are you prepared to spend as much time listening to needs of your customer as you are prepared to talk to them?
Along with speaking, a great salesperson knows when to stop talking and listen. They never cut someone off while they are talking; you need to identify your customer’s needs before you can satisfy them.

Can you follow their lead?
Salespeople should be naturally inquisitive. As the saying goes “You don’t know until you ask?” The only way to know how best to serve you customer is to identify their needs.

Can you identify a problem?
The service of embroidery is really providing a solution to a problem. Great salespeople are always solving problems. The ability to hone in on what the buyer's problem is and offering a multitude of suggestions that will diminish the odds of losing the sale. Be positive and be creative.

Are you well organized?
By well organized, I mean in terms of you thoughts. Can you break things down into smaller steps and attack them on at a time. The largest of problems can be solved I a series of small simple steps.

Can you motivate yourself to get started?
Often starting the sales process is the most difficult step, from there it is all downhill. Don’t fail before you even begin.

Can you think positive?
Sales is all about attitude. If you start out negative it will become a self-fulfilling prophesy. Stay positive, if you think you are going to make a sale you will.

Can you put yourself in your customer’s shoes?
Try to empathize with you customers, understand the way the think and always respect their viewpoint.

Can you be trusted?
Honesty truly is the best policy. If you don’t know an answer to a question, find out. Don’t wing it, that gives you a fifty percent chance of being wrong. Telling the truth is the best way to illicit your customers trust and confidence.

As an embroider you are the expert, let your customer know that and also let them know that you love what you do. This is the best way to develop a long lasting partnership with all of your customers.

Sash Frame

2008-05-09T05:45:00.000-07:00

When you are embroidering on linens or other flat items you can take advantage of the increased embroidery area afforded by switching to a sash frame also referred to as a border frame. A border frame increases your embroidery area from 15.7" x 17.7" to 16" x 19", which is a substantial increase. If you embroidering on a multi-head machine this device allows you to embroider a continual pattern by alternating the heads. You can sew one half the pattern with every other head and then the other half of the design on the other heads. This essentaily doubles the size of design that you can embroider. This feature is great for fashion embroidery and home decor items such as draperies, linens, slipcovers and valances, where larger continuous designs are often required. To view all of the details of this option go to http://www.ricoma.us/machine2.cfm

Placement Guidelines

2008-05-08T13:43:00.000-07:00

Embroidery Placement Chart

Especially when you are getting started in embroidery, the simplest thing can seem huge if you don't know where to go to find the answer. To help reduce the learning curve in one area I put together this listing of embroidery placement guidelines. These are just guidelines, depending on the various sizes of certain garments you might want to adjust them for extremely large or small sizes.

Aprons Centered on Bib 4” from top

Bath Wrap 2” from top and 2” from front opening

Blankets On a 45 degree angle 10” from corner

Coat lining Either Centered under the pocket
Or the center of the embroidery
Should be 4” from front seam

Child’s Bib Centered top to bottom left to right

Napkin on 45 degree angle 3” from corner

Necktie Centered 2” from bottom

Pillowcase Centered on wide hem

Pillow Sham Centered left to right top to bottom

Sheets Upside down centered 2” below hem

Shirts Tee left chest 8” from shoulder 4” from center

Shirts Polo 8” from shoulder 3.75” from placket

Shirt Polo Sleeve Centered .5” above band

Shirts Dress left chest 8” from shoulder 3.75 from buttonhole

Shirts Dress above pocket .25” above pocket centered

Shirts Dress cuff 1.375” from center towards buttonhole
.25” from hem seam

Shirts Sweat left chest 8” from shoulder 4” from center

Shirt Turtleneck upside down between the center of the
Neck and the left shoulder seam .5” from edge

Shorts Centered between the center of the left leg and side seam
.5” above the hem

Towel Wash cloth 1.5” above hem or 1” above border

Towel Fingertip 1.5” above hem or 1” above border

Towel Hand 2” above hem or 1.5” above border

Towel Bath 4” above hem or 2” above border

Towel Bath Sheet 5” above hem or 3” above border

Towel Golf centered below grommet

Luxurious Linens

2008-05-08T08:12:00.000-07:00

Did you ever smell an aroma or hear a song or even glace at a photograph and find yourself transported to another time and place? Our minds allow us to do this instinctively and uncontrollably. Great designers create this same type of instinctual response with their work. Those who do this well create a hunger for their work in the consumer arena. Many times we talk about the importance of customer service as a means of developing brand loyalty, but the true meat and potatoes of consumer desire is great design. It will always win out in the end.This month we are honing in on the linen market, and linens of any kind are big business right now. It seems, however, that interest is especially strong in luxury linens. This is great for embroiderers because embroidery tops the list of upscale embellishments.While luxury fabrics are important, in an effort to differentiate themselves, many designers are turning to embroidery for that very special touch that sets their designs apart from the competition’s. Embroidery as a process allows the designer to add texture, a unique colour palette and a virtually unlimited amount of patterns. Embroidery can impart traditional or extremely modern design themes, as well as anything in between. It can also be incredibly intricate or the height of simplicity, depending upon the impact or feeling you are trying to impart. Within the area of embroidery you also have optional treatments such as appliqué, cutwork, cording and boring, along with many others, and combinations of techniques to further emphasize the textural aspects of your designs.

Using a border frame to hoop these large items accomplishes three important things: It increases the size of your embroidery field, it make it easier to hopp more accurately, and if you are embroidering on a multi-head machine allows to to embroider a continuous design without re-hooping.

Get your inspiration from everything around you. go shopping in person or on-line, take a look at wallpaper borders and fabrics, start designing and digitizing, and producing, your customers are everywhere and looking for something new and unique. To add an even more special touch leave a space for a monogram to be added later at the point of sale.

Use these designs and techniques as a departure point and take them even further by imprinting them with your own unique style and vision.

The Thread You Use Changes the Laundering Instructions of The Garment

2008-05-07T07:34:00.000-07:00

After you embroider a garment you should remember that the thread that you used has changed the laundering needs of the garment that you have embroidered. I have listed below the instructions for garments which have been embroidered with metallic, polyester and rayon theads.
Metallic Embroidery Threads
Washing Instructions:Embroidered articles or garments should be washed with a neutral detergent in cold or lukewarm water. Immediately after washing, rinse the embroidery in cold water thoroughly.Avoid using chlorine bleach or optical brightening agents or heavy detergents which may cause discoloration.Wash embroideries separately from other laundry and do not crowd them into washing machine. Do not wring out or rub briskly. After washing, dry the embroidery immediately.　Never leave embroidered items soaking in water or folded or piled together when wet. When stain removers are to be used, it is suggested that a small experimental evaluation be conducted in advance to make sure that the stain remover dose not affect colors adversely. Embroidery is dry cleanable with petroleum only.
Ironing Instructions:All embroidered items should always be ironed on the reverse side, at a low temperature setting, and most preferably between two pieces of cloth.
Usage Instructions:It is recommended that thread from the same dye lot is used on symmetrical panels that require all identical colour combination. If no thread of the same dye lot is available, it is advisable to run, for evaluation, threads of different dye lots on a sample piece of material before sewing on a garment.
Storage Instructions:Do not dispose the thread to sunlight or artificial light for extended periods. Keep the thread in a well-ventilated area, avoiding high-temperature and high-humidity conditions under which to stock and work. Never get the thread in direct contact with such materials or goods which　contain sulfide as rubber. Also keep it away from area with airborne contaminations, specially with area with gas stoves which tend to emit sulfur acid gas. Care Instructions for Embroidered Garments with rayon thread.
1. HOME LAUNDERING
All embroidered garments should be washed with a mild detergent Do not use chlorine bleach or optical brightening agents If bleach is required for washing, use non-chlorine bleach in accordance with product instructions Machine wash cold water Delicate wash cycle If color residue appears in water, rinse first in lukewarm water and then cold several times until rinse water becomes clear Remove promptly after wash cycle completion Never leave any piece of embroidered clothing soaking or in water or lying in a pile when wet Upon completion of washing cycle place articles immediately in dryer, use normal setting. (For best results, we recommend preheating the dryer.) Do not wring out the embroidered articles Do not rub stained embroidery 2. DRY CLEANINGEmbroidery may be dry cleaned, however, extreme care should be excercised when dry cleaning. Special care must be taken when dark shades are dry cleaned. Avoid use of pre-spotting agents.
3. INDUSTRIAL LAUNDERINGGarments that are embroidered with Super Strength™ Rayon, Twister Tweed Rayon, or 600 Denier Rayon can be industrially laundered when proper procedures are followed as outlined by the International Fabricare Institute. Please call or fax for details. Embroidery may be dry cleaned, however, extreme care should be excercised when dry cleaning. Special care must be taken when dark shades are dry cleaned. Avoid use of pre-spotting agents.
4. IRONINGEmbroidered fabrics should always be ironed on the reverse side It is recommended to iron embroidery between two pieces of cloth It is not recommended to wet embroidery prior to ironing or to use a steam iron Note: Normally the care label instructions pertain to the garment, not the embroidery. Special care should be taken when laundering embroidered garments.Since the conditions of use, washing, pressing and cleaning, etc. vary in use of yarns and threads, the purchaser should assure himself by preliminary tests that the dye fastness of the yarn or thread is 100% colorfast to crocking or washing under all conditions. Care Instructions for Embroidered Garments withPolyester Threads
1. HOME LAUNDERINGAll embroidered garments should be washed with a mild detergent If bleach is required for washing, a small amount of chlorine bleach can be used. Non-chlorine bleach in accordance with product instructions is preferable Machine wash cold water Delicate wash cycle If color residue appears in water, rinse first in lukewarm water and then cold several times until rinse water becomes clear Remove promptly after wash cycle completion Never leave any piece of embroidered clothing soaking or in water or lying in a pile when wet Do not wring out the embroidered articles Do not rub stained embroidery
2. DRY CLEANINGEmbroidery may be dry cleaned, however, extreme care should be excercised when dry cleaning. Special care must be taken when dark shades are dry cleaned. Avoid use of pre-spotting agents.
3. INDUSTRIAL LAUNDERINGGarments that are embroidered with polyester thread can be industrial laundered when proper procedures are followed as outlined by the International Fabricare Institute. Please call or fax for details. Embroidery may be dry cleaned, however, extreme care should be excercised when dry cleaning. Special care must be taken when dark shades are dry cleaned. Avoid use of pre-spotting agents.
4. IRONINGEmbroidered fabrics should always be ironed on the reverse side It is recommended to iron embroidery between two pieces of cloth It is not recommended to wet embroidery prior to ironing or to use a steam iron Note: Normally the care label instructions pertain to the garment, not the embroidery. Special care should be taken when laundering embroidered garments.Since the conditions of use, washing, pressing and cleaning, etc. vary in use of yarns and threads, the purchaser should assure himself by preliminary tests that the dye fastness of the yarn or thread is 100% colorfast to washing under all conditions.
Care Instructions for Embroidered Garments withMetallic Threads
All embroidered garments should be washed with a mild detergent Note: Normally the care label instructions pertain to the garment, not the embroidery. Special care should be taken when laundering embroidered garments.Since the conditions of use, washing, pressing and cleaning, etc. vary in use of yarns and threads, the purchaser should assure himself by preliminary tests that the dye fastness of the yarn or thread is 100% colorfast to washing under all conditions.

The Basics of Embroidery Design Creation

2008-05-06T08:39:00.000-07:00

When you are converting artwork to embroidery, whether you are using an auto-digitizing program or a more manual method it is really a two step process, whether the two steps are obvious or not.
The first step ( if you're not starting out with a vector image) is the conversion from a bitmap image to a vector image.
The next step is to fill those vectors with different stitch types, densities and angles. There are varying degrees of how automatic or manual you want to make this process, depending upon how much control you wish to maintain over the details of the final outcome.
If you creating a fairly flat logo design, with no textures and you are starting out with clear precise artwork you might choose to use the auto-digitizing method. After this process is complete, if you are not satisfied you can then go back and fine-tune the results by using your editing tools.
If you are starting out with a vector image you can choose to fill in the entire design with stitching or you can choose the individual elements that make up the design and fill them in one by one. The advantage to this method is that you can control which stich types and directions will be employed from the very beginining.
The last choice is to start with a bitmap image and create you objects and then immediately fill them in with stitching. This will allow you to alter their shape, density, stitch type and stitching order as you create your design, while this is the most time intensive, it also gives you the most control.

Applique Appeal

2008-05-05T08:21:00.000-07:00

The incorporation of appliques within a design has always been a great technique for reducing stitch count and embroidery machine run time. However there are times when it is in fashion and others where it popularity wanes a lttle bit. Right now these are quite a few factors that have caused its popularity to soar.
First of all Laser cutters, both independent and beam lasers which work directly on the machine have sped up the process and made it much more automated.
The wide availablity of applique fabrics and cutting services and lower minimums have made apllque easily available to every embroiderer.
The availablily of knowledge of the technique, through magazines, websites and from manufacturers has make the process much less daunting.
There is also the comfort factor. Many customers find appliques designs more comfortable to wear than designs that are solely embroidered.
There is also sophisticated software offerered to automate the digitizing of appliques and to generate cut lines for laser or other cutting machines.
Last, it is in fashion right now so customers are asking for it. So, if you haven't offered applique up to this point now might be the ideal time.

2008-04-21T06:12:00.000-07:00

The auto-trace feature in D.I.S.C. Gold digitizing, editing and lettering program allows you to automatically trace any scanned image and simultaniously reduce the colors necessary to reproduce that image in embroidery. This function frees up you time so that you can focus in on the more creative aspects of embroidery creation, such as density, stitch direction and type.

D.I.S.C. Gold Version 3.2

2008-04-16T06:43:00.000-07:00

Capped Corner

Overlapped Corner

Mitered Corner

Standard Corner

D.I.S.C. Gold Version 3.2 is a full digitizing software that combines Digitizing, Editing, Lettering, Designs Management and many other features in a complete user friendly environment.

it allows you to automatically digitize vector images or to manually digitize your own designs, and has all of the features of all of the major professional digitizing programs at a fraction of the price.

One of those features is a choice of cornering options.

When you are digitizing a column stitch and you have to turn it at an accute angle you can run into a couple of problems. One is a build up of stitches on he inside of the angle, which can cause both thread breaks and actually bore a hole in the garment. The other is extremely long stitches which will look unsightly and also tend to get caught and break. To solve these problems we give you four different cornering options. The four cornering options illustrated above are: standard, mitered, capped and overlapping. While the standard cornering option is usually the preferable choice, you will run into situations where you will need to opt for one of the other choices.

Understanding Embroidery Profitabilty

2008-04-14T12:27:00.000-07:00

Retail / Home Production Cost Analysis

How Much Money Can You Earn With a Ricoma?

While there are other factors which may come into play when you start your business and pick the market niche you wish to serve, below we have outlined the basic formula for calculating you daily embroidery profit.

Number of Heads
Cost
1 2 4 6
1 Day Labor ($9.00/hr. x 8 hours)
$72.00 $72.00 $72.00 $72.00
Average machine cost with software
$12,500 $18,500 $26,500 $35,500
Monthly Payment (60 months @ 10%)
$266 $393 $563 $755
Daily Payment (Monthly payment / 30 Days)
$12.09 $17.86 $25.59 $34.31
Daily Labor + Machine Payment
$84.09 $89.86 $97.59 $106.31

Production
1 2 4 6
Time it takes to sew an average design. (6,000 stitch pattern 3-colors @ 700 stitches per minute) The average corporate logo will be about 3000-5000 stitches. Top machine speed is usually 1200 stitches per minute. Time is allotted for re-loading the garment onto the machine and the extra time it takes for the machine to trim the thread and change colors.
9.6 min 10.1 min 10.6 min 11.1 min

Results
1 2 4 6
Total items produced in one day. (420 minutes (7 hours) divided by time for 1 item)
43.75 83.16 158.48 227.00
Production Cost/Item (One days operation cost divided by items produced, including .04 per item for thread & backing)
$1.96 $1.12 $0.65 $0.50

Retail Pricing
1 2 4 6
Total items produced in one day. (420 minutes (7 hours) divided by time for 1 item)
43.75 83.16 158.48 227.00
Production Cost/Item (One days operation cost divided by items produced, including .04 per item for thread & backing)
$1.96 $1.12 $0.65 $0.50

Retail Pricing
1 2 4 6
Embroidery Profit (6000 stitches x .80 per 1000 x daily production less production cost) Retail pricing will vary depending on location and customer. We took a good average of this criteria and came up with .80 per 1000 stitches.
$124.25 $306.02 $657.69 $976.10

Total Daily Profit
1 2 4 6

HatsCost = $3Retail = $13Profit = $10 + Embroidery.
$554 $1,136 $2,237 $3,246

Polo ShirtsCost = $8Retail = $24Profit = $16 + Embroidery.
$812 $1,634 $3,185 $4,608

JacketsCost = $28Retail = $55Profit = $27 + Embroidery.
$1,285 $2,547 $4,923 $7,105

Note: Above garment profits will be reduced for large orders and/or to compete with other embroiderers.

2008-04-14T12:21:00.000-07:00

Mark these ideas on your calendar today, and all year long you will get a head start on your monthly promotions.

January - White sale, ski equipment, sweaters, turtlenecks, winter wear

February - Washington’s Birthday, Lincoln’s Birthday, Valentine’s Day

March - St. Patrick’s Day, Easter wear, baby items

April - Luggage promotion, canvas tote bags, team uniforms, school fund Raisers.

May - Mother’s Day, robes, aprons

June - Graduation, wedding, Father’s Day (men’s shirt and tie Monogramming)

July - Beach wear, towels, terry robes

August - Back-to-school, totes, backs packs, school jackets, baseball hats

September - School and church fund raisers

October - Halloween

November - Linens for Thanksgiving and the Holidays

December - Time to have customers thinking about Christmas gifts

All Year Long

Corporate Accounts - Product launches, promotional itemsLocal Businesses - Employee work wearSports Teams - Team strips, Baseball caps, Merchandising items

How To Speak Embroiderese

2008-04-03T06:32:00.000-07:00

You have started an embroidery business, your machine has been installed, you have learned the basics of your software, you open your doors and you are ready to go.

However, are you ready to competently explain your offerings? There is sometimes a language barrier when communicating with your customer, in both understanding and using the proper embroidery terms. In an effort to help you jump over this common hurdle we have published a glossary of embroidery terms on our website at http://www.ricoma.us/embroidery_glossary.cfm

So before you rush in and conquer you might want to scan this very helpful list of terms so you can go out swinging fully prepared for any situation.

2008-04-02T07:04:00.000-07:00

Chenille is a specialized sector of the embroidery industry, and as such can be much more profitable than standard embroidery. Corporations, schools, teams, fashion designers, organizations, fraternities, sororities, clubs, individuals, movie studios, Grand Prix and Motorcross, pop and country music stars, and sporting goods team dealers all use chenille embroidery and the demands are greater than the services available. Whether you are an embroiderer who is ready to expand their business or a screenprinter or ad specialty distributor who feels it is time to bring chenille embroidery in-house, we have the perfect model for you. Feel free to visit our website http://www.ricoma.us/ or to contact one of our highly trained salespersons so we may answer any questions regarding our multi-function technology. And again, don’t forget to ask about our special lease programs available now and take advantage of the lowest interest rates in history!!!

FC1201-SQ-6L
This unique multi-function model will give you the ability to create 12 color standard embroidery combined with 6 color chenille at an incredibly affordable price. Sleek design and finish with state of the art features and technology.

Special Multi-function Chenille FC1201-SQ-6L
12 Color standard embroidery
6 color Chenille
Sequin
Flat and Tubular sewing

RiCOMA Spring Sale-A-Bration

2008-03-21T08:14:00.000-07:00

RiCOMA USA is offering huge savings on all of our newly redesigned and engineered embroidery models from now until the end of April 2008. Get the latest technology at the greatest savings ever. Listed below you will find just some of the incredible packages we are offering in this unparalleled sales event. Feel free to visit our website http://www.ricoma.us/ or to contact one of our highly trained salespersons so we may answer any questions regarding our Spring Sale-a-bration. And don’t forget to ask about our special lease programs available now and take advantage of the lowest interest rates in history!!!

RCM1204C
This totally redesigned and engineered machine will give you the ability to maximize production at an affordable price. Sleek new design and finish with state of the art features and technology.

*Spring Sale A Bration Savings Special Price $25,995.00*
RCM1204C
DISC Gold Digitizing Software
Complete set of Hoops
Cap Driver and Cap Frame
5 Year Warranty

RCM1208C
This totally redesigned and engineered machine is lighter and more efficient, with the capacity to work all day and all night.

*Spring Sale-a-bration Savings Special Price $35,995.00*
RCM1208C
DISC Gold Digitizing Software
Complete set of Hoops
Cap Driver and Cap Frame
5 Year Warranty

*Also ask us how to start your own Embroidery Business for under $10,000.00

*Call or email us for more information on our many other Spring Sale-a-bration Specials

Prices are valid as of 03/15/2008 thru 03/31/2008
Write us at info@ricoma.us or visit our website
http://www.ricoma.us/ or call 1-888-292-6282
Copyright © 2008 Ricoma All rights reserved

Add Three-Dimensional Texture

2008-03-20T05:48:00.000-07:00

One of the most desirable aspects of embroidery is its tactile appeal. When you look at an embroidered design, it is almost impossible not to run your fingers across it and appreciate the textural qualities imparted by the thread. To increase this effect we add layers of underlay to emphasize these qualitites. Puffy foam is also used to create a similar appeal.

What is often overlooked is the incredibly quick and easy 3-D looks you can achieve with the addition of cording or soutache to your designs.

When cording is used to create emphasis or a focal point to a standard embroidered design, the result is spectacular. The low stitch count necessary to tack down the cording barely adds to the overall stitch count of the design, but the look and texture that you add is immeasurable. I would suggest that every embroiderer consider this very versatile addition to their embroidery tool arsenal. Cording is not just for fashion anymore.

RiCOMA Easter Special

2008-03-19T07:10:00.000-07:00

Ricoma USA wants to wish you a very happy Easter. We urge you to take advantage of our Easter Savings Sale. From now until the end of April 2008, Ricoma USA is offering huge savings on all our embroidery products. Pleasetake a moment to look at some of the promotions we have to offer. Feel free to visit our website www.ricoma.us <http://www.ricoma.us/> or to contactone of our highly trained salespersons so we may answer any questions regarding our Easter Savings Sale. And don't forget to ask about our special lease programs available now and take advantage of the lowest interest rates in history!!!

RCM1204C

This new look machine will give you the ability to maximize production at anaffordable price. Sleek new design and finish with improved features.

*Easter Savings Special Price $25,995.00*

RCM1204C

DISC Gold Digitizing Software

Complete set of Hoops

Cap Driver and Cap Frame

5 Year Warranty

Sensational Sequins

2008-03-19T05:39:00.000-07:00

When you think about sequins, you might think about runway fashions, costumes, or Vegas showgirls, but modern uses for this time tested embellishment techique have spread in all directions.

What sequins do is, get attention! We now use sequins on caps, T-shirts, sweats and just about anywhere you want to make an impact.

Using sequins in addition to standard embroidery allows you to make the design really stand out from the garment, and isn't that what we are really trying to do with our embroidered designs.

The great thing about sequins is that they can make any design a real standout without adding a lot of stitching and therefore gives you a lot of bang for your buck. If you are thinking about buying your first embroidery machine or adding another head make sure the machine you buy has a sequin attachment, you may not need it today but you will tomorrow. See the sequin attachment above at http://www.ricoma.us/machine1.cfm

2008-03-18T12:14:00.000-07:00

The newly re-designed RCM-1501 PT is not only beautiful, sleek and modern, it is also an efficient, easy to use workhorse.

It has everything you could ever need or want in an embroidery machine. If you are looking to upgrade from a home machine to a commercial machine, buy your first embroidery machine or you want to add another embroidery head to your shop, this is the first machine you should consider. To find out more about this model and all of the others go to www.yamata.com