Embroidery Information Embroidered Printed Workwear and Clothing in Lancaster by JE Embroidery

Whats the process of embroidering garments we keep being asked so we have decided to list it all below for you its not just picking a garment putting it on a machine alot of work goes on in the background.

1. Design Creation:

Software: The first step is creating or choosing the design you want to embroider. This is typically done using digitising software (e.g., Melco's DesignShop software or other compatible embroidery design software). The design must be converted into an embroidery format, which includes information about thread colours, stitch types, stitch count, and the precise path for the needle to follow.
File Format: The design is saved in a format compatible with the Melco XTS machine (usually .EMB or .DST).

2. Preparing the Garment:

Choosing the Garment: Once the design is ready, the next step is to choose the garment to be embroidered. The Melco XTS machine can embroider on a wide range of materials, such as T-shirts, caps, jackets, and bags.
Stabilising the Fabric: To prevent distortion of the fabric, you’ll need to stabilise it. A stabiliser (a type of fabric backing material) is used to provide support to the garment during embroidery. The type of stabiliser (tear-away, cut-away, or water-soluble) depends on the fabric being used.
Hooping: The garment is then placed in an embroidery hoop. This hoop holds the fabric in place during the embroidery process. The hoop is securely tightened so that the fabric is taut, preventing any shifting or puckering.

3. Setting Up the Melco XTS Machine:

Loading the Design: The digitised embroidery design is loaded onto the Melco XTS machine either via USB, network connection, or directly from a computer. The design is selected and transferred to the machine’s interface.
Threading the Machine: The Melco XTS is an automatic multi-needle embroidery machine, so you need to load the appropriate threads into each needle (typically 6-16 threads, depending on the machine model). The machine can handle multiple thread colours, and each needle corresponds to a different colour in the design.
Setting Machine Parameters: The machine operator sets specific parameters for the design, such as stitch density, thread tension, speed, and the sequence in which colours will be embroidered.

4. Embroidering the Design:

Start the Machine: Once everything is set up, the operator starts the machine. The Melco XTS uses a multi-needle system, where the machine automatically switches between threads as it progresses through the design.
Embroidery Process: The machine moves the needle up and down through the fabric, stitching out the design layer by layer. The threads are embroidered in a sequence based on the colours specified in the design.
- Stitch Types: Depending on the design, the machine can perform various types of stitches such as satin stitch, fill stitch, outline stitch, run stitch, and more.
- Speed and Precision: The Melco XTS machine is known for its high speed and precision, which means it can complete large or intricate designs efficiently. The machine can embroider at speeds of up to 1000-1200 stitches per minute, depending on the complexity of the design.
Threading and Tension Adjustments: The machine automatically adjusts the tension of the threads during the embroidery process to ensure consistent stitching. The operator may need to make minor adjustments, particularly if there are issues with the thread or fabric.

5. Finishing the Embroidery:

Removing the Hoop: After the embroidery is complete, the garment is removed from the hoop.
Trimming Excess Thread: Any excess threads (known as jump threads) are carefully trimmed to ensure a clean finish. The operator checks the embroidery to ensure that all stitches are intact and that the design is as intended.

6. Post-Embroidery Process:

Removing the Stabiliser: If a tear-away stabiliser was used, it is carefully removed from the garment. For cut-away stabilisers, some material may remain, but it is designed to stay within the fabric to provide long-term support.
Pressing: In some cases, the embroidered garment may be pressed or steamed to ensure that the fabric is smooth and the stitches are well-defined. This step also helps eliminate any creases from the hooping process.

7. Quality Check:

Inspection: A final inspection is carried out to ensure the embroidery is flawless, with no loose threads, skipped stitches, or other imperfections. The design should be properly aligned and crisp.

8. Finished Product:

Once the embroidery is complete, the garment is ready for delivery or use. The finished product features a high-quality embroidered design that is durable and professionally stitched.

Summary of the Process:

This method of embroidery is widely used for creating high-quality, durable designs on garments such as corporate uniforms, sportswear, personalised items, and more. The Melco XTS machine is particularly valued for its ability to handle high volumes of work with precision, as well as its multi-needle capability, which allows for fast and efficient embroidery.