Artwork Rights

Be sure to discuss whether you own the artwork and embroidery files once your samples are complete. Some people assume that if they paid for the work they own it but others believe that the rights to artwork and digitized embroidery files belong to the person who created the file. Work out the details ahead of time such as what files and paperwork will be transfered to you so if your ideas are successful, you can easily move production to another facility.

Production Time

Get an idea of your production time schedule but understand that this is somewhat dependent on the number of design revisions you'll need. If you have a deadline to meet make that known to your embroiderer, but at the same time, give your project plenty of time. The tendency is to be in a hurry and set an unrealistic time frame - avoid this. Also consider when is a good time to work on your designs. Most decorators have slower time periods during the year depending on what type of work they specialize in. An embroiderer who will give you plenty of attention during his slow season probably won't be as helpful during his rush season.

Find The Right Embroiderer

Okay, it’s a week later. Does your logo look fine to you? If it does its time to get a second opinion. Show it to a friend. Does your logo “work” for them too?

After your idea is finalized its time to find an embroiderer. Not every embroiderer does this type of work. Ask potential decorators if they’ve done this work before and if they can show you samples. Also inquire about how revisions will be handled. Is there a charge for each revision or are you allowed some changes before additional cost is incurred?

Get Your Idea On Paper

After you finalize your idea put it on paper so that someone else can visualize what you want. A sketch is best if you’re not familiar with any type of graphics software but you can also discuss your idea in a paragraph. Be descriptive so someone can visualize what you want. Discuss the elements of your design such as the size, colors, shapes and textures. After finishing your design put it away for a day or so to give yourself a chance to reevaluate it with a fresh perspective at a later time. Then review your idea and decide whether it still looks “right” to you. Are changes necessary? If so, make your adjustments and put your work aside again.