Embroidery
Technical requirements, thread specifications, and process overview for custom embroidery on Work+Shelter products.
Embroidery adds a dimensional, premium finish to your brand by stitching your design directly into the fabric. Our artisans use industrial embroidery machines alongside handcrafted finishing to produce consistent, durable results.
File Specifications
We accept the following file formats for embroidery:
- PDF, DST, or EMB (digitized embroidery files preferred)
- Minimum 300 DPI for raster artwork submitted for digitizing
- Maximum placement width: 11.811 inches (300 mm)
- Running width for all-over embroidery: up to 56 inches
- Minimum 1.5-inch edge clearance from seams or hems
Recommended Format
If you have a vector file (AI, EPS, or SVG), send that instead of a raster image. Vector art digitizes more cleanly and reduces setup costs.
Color & Threading
Embroidery threads are available in viscose and polyester. Viscose gives a silkier sheen for fashion applications; polyester is more colorfast and recommended for items that will be washed frequently.
- Maximum 9 thread colors per design
- Colors are matched to Pantone or thread brand swatch books
- Thread sample books are available for purchase ($40 per book) for precise color selection
Process Overview
- 1Artwork is digitized — converted from a graphic into a stitch file the machine reads
- 2The fabric is hooped to hold it taut and flat during stitching
- 3The machine stitches the design layer by layer
- 4Jump threads are trimmed and backing (batting) is removed or secured
Batting is sometimes used beneath the fabric to add loft and structure to the embroidered area, giving logos a raised, 3D appearance.
Advantages
- Highly durable — outlasts the product lifetime in most cases
- Dimensional texture adds a premium, tactile quality
- Colorfast: does not fade with washing
- Works on a wide range of fabrics — canvas, denim, fleece, woven, and more
- Professional, premium appearance for corporate and gifting programs
Limitations
- Fine details and thin lines below 1.5 mm may not stitch cleanly
- Higher per-unit cost than print methods due to stitch count and setup
- Fabric puckering is a risk on very lightweight or stretchy materials
- Gradient and photorealistic images are not achievable with thread
- Fabrics heavier than 18 oz may present hooping challenges
Design Complexity
For designs with fine lines or small text, our team will advise on minimum size requirements during the artwork approval stage before production begins.
