COMMON THREAD--PERSONALIZATION Embroidery, engraving, etching, screen-printing, heat transfers--what common thread do these processes share?

They add value and uniqueness to the items they embellish. In the promotions world they add what we call "personalization." Although not essential to survival, these processes help us address a need that is part and parcel to being human--the need to express our creativity, individuality and identity. This need has been around since the first caveman chiseled his markings on a rock wall. It explains why the "bells and whistles" of business promotion we call personalization (the backbone of the industry) is in growing demand and destined to be around as long as there are businesses to promote apparel embroidery
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EMBROIDERY PLAYS A LEADING ROLE Embroidery plays a leading role in business apparel personalization. It presents a three-dimensional, upscale look with high perceived value that enhances the overall impression of a logo or design. Alternatives, such as screen printing, simply do not offer the same sense of style and quality.

At Fast Embroidery Tapes, we have noticed a trend toward more complex and involved designs. We understand our customers' need to "put their best foot forward" and do all we can to maintain the integrity of a logo or design. However, embroidery must interpret a design with thread, and we would like to make a few suggestions to help you take full advantage of this art form within its limitations apparel embroidery
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To save time, frustration and potential embarrassment, know your product (in this case fabric and thread) and understand the embroidery process. Review a design before you tell your customer that it can be embroidered "as is." Be prepared to make suggestions. A design may need to be modified for the embroidery process, but with a little knowledge you can help them create a finished product that not only meets but exceeds their expectations.

TEXT SIZE Letter size is an important consideration when creating a design for the embroidery process. Script or serif fonts are not advisable for small text. For best results, use capitalized letters in a sans serif font such as Arial. The minimum letter heights listed below are for sans serif, block letters, sewn in a satin stitch apparel embroidery.