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The Apparel Lab
Service · Embroidery

Custom Embroidery

Stitched logos that convey quality and professionalism. Embroidery is the go-to method for polos, hats, jackets, and any garment where you want a premium, textured finish that lasts the life of the garment.

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+ Best For

Where this method shines

  • Polos, button-downs, and dress shirts
  • Hats, beanies, and caps
  • Jackets, vests, and outerwear
  • Workwear and uniforms
  • Corporate apparel programs
  • Logos and text (clean, professional look)
— Not Ideal For

When to consider another method

  • Photographic or highly detailed artwork (too many thread changes)
  • Very large designs (12"+ ), where cost and stiffness increase
  • Thin or lightweight fabrics that can't support stitching
  • Gradients and color fades (thread doesn't blend smoothly)
/ Sec.02Pricing Drivers

What affects your price.

We quote every project individually. These are the variables that move the number.

  • 01Stitch count (the primary cost driver; more complex logos mean more stitches)
  • 02Number of thread colors (each color change adds production time)
  • 03Quantity (per-unit cost drops with volume as digitizing is a one-time fee)
  • 04Garment type (polos, hats, and jackets have different hooping requirements)
  • 05Placement locations (left chest, right chest, back, sleeves, hats)
  • 06Digitizing fee (one-time setup to convert your logo to a stitch file)
/ Sec.03Process

Quote to delivery.

  1. 01Step

    Submit Your Logo

    Send over your logo in the highest quality format you have. Vector files are ideal but not required; digitizing is handled for you.

  2. 02Step

    Review Your Proof

    Your logo is converted into a stitch file optimized for embroidery, and a digital sew-out proof is sent for your approval. Revisions included.

  3. 03Step

    Production

    Your approved design moves into production. Every piece is stitched and quality-checked before it ships.

  4. 04Step

    Shipping & Delivery

    Your order is packed and shipped to your location with tracking. Rush shipping available.

/ Sec.04Lead Times

Turnaround.

After proof approval. Rush always subject to capacity.

TierStandard
7–10 business days after proof approval
TierRush
5–7 business days (subject to availability)
/ Sec.05File Specs

Artwork & files.

  • Vector files (AI, EPS, PDF) produce the best digitizing results
  • High-resolution PNG or JPG (300+ DPI) also accepted
  • Simple, clean logos embroider best; fine details may need simplification
  • Provide thread color preferences or PMS codes
  • First-time logos require a one-time digitizing fee (kept on file for reorders)
/ Sec.06Catalog

Popular products for this method.

  • / 01

    Polos

    The #1 embroidery product. Left chest logos for a professional, uniform look.

  • / 02

    Hats & Caps

    Structured and unstructured caps. Front, side, and back embroidery.

  • / 03

    Jackets & Vests

    Outerwear with chest, back, and sleeve embroidery options.

  • / 04

    Button-Down Shirts

    Dress shirts and oxfords with subtle, professional branding.

  • / 05

    Beanies & Knit Caps

    Cuffed and uncuffed styles. Great for outdoor and winter branding.

  • / 06

    Workwear

    Durable work shirts, jackets, and uniforms with stitched logos.

/ Sec.07FAQ

Common questions.

What is digitizing and why is there a fee?

Digitizing converts your logo from an image file into a stitch file that tells the embroidery machine exactly where to place each stitch. It's a one-time fee, and your file is kept on record for all future orders.

What is the minimum order for embroidery?

The standard minimum is 8 pieces per design. For hat embroidery, minimums may vary by style. Contact us for specifics.

How much does embroidery cost?

Pricing is based on stitch count, thread colors, quantity, and placement. A simple left-chest logo on polos is the most common and cost-effective configuration. Request a quote for exact pricing.

Can you embroider my existing garments?

Yes. Customer-supplied garments are accepted. We'll confirm they're compatible with embroidery before proceeding. A handling fee may apply.

How detailed can the embroidery be?

Embroidery works best for logos, text, and simple icons. Very fine details (thin lines under 1mm, tiny text, gradients) may need to be simplified for clean results.

Will my logo look exactly like the digital file?

Thread has a different texture than ink or pixels, so the look is slightly different by nature; that's part of the appeal. Your digitized file is optimized so it looks its best in thread form.

Can I get different names on each garment?

Yes. Individual names and titles can be added. Send a list of names and which garment each one goes on, and they'll be stitched accordingly.

Do you keep my logo on file for reorders?

Yes. Once digitized, your logo is stored permanently. Reorders skip the digitizing fee and often ship faster.

Ready to start your project?

Free, no-obligation quote, returned quickly.