Embroidery is the process of creating a design with needlework, but don't let the quaint sound of that fool you. In this age of technology the embroidery process is all computerized. There is still a lot of personal handiwork involved but, as you will see, computers aid us in this process.

When a design comes to the embroidery department it needs to be input into the computer. This can be done by using a scanner to scan existing artwork. If the artwork is already in the computer, it can be transferred via disk or email. The image that is put into the computer is used as a template for the digitizer.

Digitizing is the process of converting the image into a stitched version. The computer is used to create a roadmap for the embroidery machine which, when followed, results in a stitched design. Digitizing is one of the most important aspects of embroidery. An improperly digitized design can result in inefficient production & poor quality. A finished design may go through many editing stages before it is considered complete, after accomplishing this task an accurate sample can be prepared to show the customer for approval. Samples are run on a single head machine. When the samples approved the job is ready to be produced. This can be done on a 6 head or 12 head machine depending on the type and number of garments for the job. These machines allow you to run 6 or 12 pieces with the same design at the same time.

The production process begins with transferring the digitized design to the embroidery machine computer. The machine operator must then tie on the proper thread colors for the job. They must check the garments in to be sure they are all there and correct. They must hoop the garments using backing to stabilize the fabric. One garment is then run to check for proper placement, design & colors. If everything is correct it's time to let the machines fly. While the design is running the operator continues to hoop garments so the machine can be reloaded as soon as it is finished. This continues until all the garments are complete.

The garments are then taken to post production where the backing is removed, loose threads are trimmed and hoop marks are steamed away. You now have a finished product that is boxed up & ready to be delivered or shipped to you the customer.