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What is Embroidery Digitizing?
Digitizing is a combination of artistic arrangement and computer process that
takes a design, photo, drawing etc. and converts it to an embroidery design. That
design is then programmed into our computerized machines.
Why can't I just send you a bitmap, Word, Photoshop or
similar program file to use?
Our machines read only embroidery programs. These programs direct each
needle and thread entry to produce the desired results. Bitmaps, gifs etc. are a
great starting point. However, in the embroidery process, we have to tell the
machine where to put the thread manually.
If I have seen my company logo elsewhere in embroidery,
can I provide a copy for you to use and avoid the cost of
digitizing?
Most likely, yes. If your design has been embroidered elsewhere, a copy should
be available. This is easily accomplished through transfer of a disk, or a simple
e-mail. Please check with us to guarantee compatibility. You will also have to
provide a release that provides us/you with the legal authority to reproduce any
copyright or trademarked logo.
Who is a Digitizer?
Most digitizers have an embroidery or graphic arts background. The process
however is still more art than science. The results of a design are determined by
the skill of the digitizer. In the hands of an inexperienced digitizer the most
advanced software and hardware can produce poor results. In reality 5 different
digitizers may come up with 5 different interpretations of your logo- based on
their experience. We do all logos inhouse
Why is it so expensive?
Because of complexity of the software and limited need of such software, the
cost for a digitizing program is very costly. The most basic are $5,000+ and
advanced software can easily cost more than $20,000. It takes many months and
even years of training before a digitizer can produce satisfactory designs. There
are software applications that do offer "scan and stitch" but the results are
generally poor. In our experience, there is no "plug and play" method for
embroidery designs that produces satisfactory results.
Does Discount T-Shirts & Embroidery do the digitizing "in
house"?
Yes. We have the experience to execute most designs "in house". For very
intricate designs we will often use outside sources to produce the design you
desire. We use both local and nationally known professionals for any outside
digitizing.
How does it work?
In most cases, it starts with scanning the item or working from a bitmap or other
format. The digitizer of an embroidery design then manipulates the image. A small
design, such as would be used for a hat or chest of a garment, may contain 5000
to 7000 or more individual stitches. The digitizing program helps guide each
needle entry. The program alone however does not do it all, the digitizer must then
apply the stitches in a proper order to avoid "pulling" of the garment. He or she
must also determine the stitch density of the design. This process involves
determining how many stitches are to be applied in a given area of the design.
Too many stitches will tear or distort the fabric, and distort any lettering in the
design. Too few will leave the garment fabric showing through. He or she must
also set the sequence of colors, and the pattern as to how each part of the design
will be applied by the machines to the item being embroidered.
What does it cost?
The cost is based on the complexity of design, number of colors and size. We will
furnish an estimate, based on the complexity of the desired outcome. The general
rule of thumb is $5 per 1000 stitches for general images and $10 per 1000 for
very complex or photo reproductions. Minimum Charge per logo is $40. This is a
one time charge per logo, as long as the logo or size doesn't change you will
never be billed a setup fee again.
What part of process is of most concern in the execution of
the design I want and my expectations?
Lettering/shading and small lines are the most difficult to execute. The
embroidery process is still "needle and thread". The type of definition that can be
had in screen printing or graphic design is impossible with embroidery. We can
make suggestions as to how to make your design "work" in embroidery.
How do I avoid problems with my design?
Bold lines and lettering are much easier to execute; we will work with your design
and offer suggestions for a superior outcome. In addition, the results may vary on
the garment that is run, i.e. a logo design for a hat may not run satisfactorily on
fleece.
Okay, how do we proceed?
We will approximate the cost and ask for a deposit for the digitizing (a firm price
cannot be established until the design is complete). The process takes from 2-5
days. If you prefer, we can at this stage of the process, order the garments you
wish to have embroidered. This will place the product "on site" for when your
design is approved.
Is there a less expensive way than having a design digitized?
Yes. We offer some 10,000 stock designs that we can modify slightly, add
lettering to, or change colors. The fee for using one of these designs is $5 per
logo.
If I use a stock design, does it become my property the same
as if it were digitized?
No. The supplier of the stock design software has copyrighted the designs. We
are allowed to reproduce these designs through our purchase of the software
and a licensing agreement with them. However, we will not provide a lettered
design of yours to anyone without your permission. The design remains the
property of Discount T-Shirts & Embroidery
Can I bring in my own garments for embroidery?
Yes, of course. There is however a $7.00 minimum charge per item. We cannot
however work with some garments due to their construction or material. Heavy
canvas items such as Heavy Work Jackets and Gold Bags may carry an
additional charge due to the difficulty in working with these items. We will be
happy to provide specifics for any items about which you may have questions.
Also we are not responsible for damage to your garments, so please use your
own garments at your own risk.
If I want a design that incorporates a copyright or trademark,
can you do it?
Yes, but only under certain stipulations, i.e. if you own a local franchise and want
to use their logo as part of your design we can do so if the following criteria are
met. We will need in writing a "trademark release" before we can run your
garments. This document allows reproduction of the copyrighted or trademarked
portion of the design on your items. It does not allow us to use the design or any
part of it for anyone other than you or your authorized agent.
