Product Customization·April 21, 2026

Embroidery

Technical requirements, thread specifications, and process overview for custom embroidery on Work+Shelter products.

Embroidery is one of the oldest ways to decorate textiles, but with modern technology, it has evolved into a precise and scalable process. Machine embroidery uses specialized equipment to stitch designs directly into fabric with colored threads. Unlike printing methods that apply ink or dye, embroidery becomes part of the fabric’s texture, creating a raised, dimensional design that’s both durable and timeless.

We use machine embroidery to translate logos, patterns, and custom artwork into sustainable, ethically made products: from organic cotton tote bags to BCI denim pouches and home goods.

File Specifications and Setup

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 & Threads

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. Mixing and matching is available as an option.

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

How Machine Embroidery Works

1
Digitizing the design: Artwork is converted into a stitch file that tells the machine exactly how to sew each part of the design.
2
Hooping the fabric: The fabric is stretched tightly in a hoop to keep it stable during stitching.
3
Stitching the design: The embroidery machine uses multiple needles and threads to sew the design directly into the fabric, following the digital file.
4
Finishing: Extra threads and backing are trimmed, leaving a clean, professional design.Batting is sometimes used beneath the fabric to add loft and structure to the embroidered area, giving logos a raised, 3D appearance.

The Role of Batting in Embroidery

Below is a step-by-step gallery of the women of Work+Shelter preparing a fabric panel with fusing and batting ahead of embroidery and after.

Batting is the soft, cushioned material placed under the embroidery or between layers of fabric (like in a quilt). It’s used to enhance the final product in three main ways:

• Batting gives the stitches a raised, three-dimensional quality, making the embroidered design stand out dramatically. This is essential for techniques like padded embroidery.

• In items like pouches or home goods, batting provides a soft, cushioned premium hand-feel, making the product more substantial.

• While stabilizers are key to preventing puckering, a thick layer of batting helps further by giving the needle and stitches a stronger foundation, leading to a smoother result, especially on heavier materials.

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.

Batting attached to panel for embroidery

Thread cutting after embroidery completion

Teal tote bag with embroidered telephone design

File Specifications and Setup

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 & Threads

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

How Machine Embroidery Works

Digitizing the design: Artwork is converted into a stitch file that tells the machine exactly how to sew each part of the design.

Hooping the fabric: The fabric is stretched tightly in a hoop to keep it stable during stitching.

Stitching the design: The embroidery machine uses multiple needles and threads to sew the design directly into the fabric, following the digital file.

Finishing: Extra threads and backing are trimmed, leaving a clean, professional design.Batting is sometimes used beneath the fabric to add loft and structure to the embroidered area, giving logos a raised, 3D appearance.

The Role of Batting in Embroidery

Below is a step-by-step gallery of the women of Work+Shelter preparing a fabric panel with fusing and batting ahead of embroidery and after.

Batting is the soft, cushioned material placed under the embroidery or between layers of fabric (like in a quilt). It’s used to enhance the final product in three main ways:

• Batting gives the stitches a raised, three-dimensional quality, making the embroidered design stand out dramatically. This is essential for techniques like padded embroidery.

• In items like pouches or home goods, batting provides a soft, cushioned premium hand-feel, making the product more substantial.

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.