We normally advise clients against embroidering onto t-shirts. The stitches pull the thin cotton inward where the needle enters and as a result it can often pucker or distort the logo or crest.
However, it is not an impossible task and this month Wilcom, an embroidery digitising software manufacturer, have a good article for embroiderers explaining how it can be achieved if the following factors are just right:
- Digitising – how the original design is converted into a stitch pattern. Indigo use very experienced, UK based, digitisers as skimping on this essential part of the embroidery process can result on poor results.
- Underlay and Backing – prevents the design from shifting and stops the fabric from moving or strecthing.
- Framing – using a small frame is best.
- Speed – a slow speed gives more control.
For those of you in the embroidery trade who are interested in reading the whole article it can be found at: How to embroider onto t-shirts
Often clients need military embroidery onto t-shirts for tours or expeditions, so Indigo recommend the use of the Gildan Ultra Cotton t-shirt which is heavier than most t-shirts and has the advantage of being available in over 50 colours.