Embroidery is a technique used to place designs on fabrics utilizing a needle and thread. Today many embroidery shops use machines that are faster producing very similar results. When choosing a shop, there are several considerations discussed below.

ONLINE OR IN PERSON

The first consideration involves the decision to use an online company or go local. There are many high-quality sites on the internet. Of course, you would need to investigate them before deciding on one. The advantage of local is simple. You walk into the shop and meet the owners and workers in person. You can explain what you need, and they can let you know all the details.

It really is what makes you feel comfortable. More and more people are choosing to do business on the internet, and this is one area where it can be done. Remember most online sites have a physical presence.

QUALITY

This should be the first consideration. You want a quality job. If it is a one-time purchase of an item as a gift, or if you are buying bulk for a company, quality matters. Ask to see examples of the firm’s work. Look on the internet for customer reviews.

TIME

You have a small window of time to get your embroidering finished. You need to be assured your order will be done on time. Get a firm commitment as to the turnaround time. Make sure you have a day or two leeway in the event something unexpected happens.

SELECTION

This refers to items such as T-shirts. You need to find out what the shop offers, and how the selection meets your needs. Also, find out if the company will allow you to provide your item or items for embroidering.

COST

Price ties in with quality. If the quality of the embroidery is identical or fairly close, then most people will choose the lower cost. However, if there is a difference, a person must decide whether the higher price is justified.

There is always a balancing act between price and quality. It all depends on the purpose of the embroidery. If it is a single item gift to a special person, then quality overrules price. A large order for shirts for corporate employees might mean choosing a lower price.

DESIGN

There are three choices for design. One is to provide your own design which might be a corporate one that identifies your company. The second option is clip art provided by the embroidery shop. The last choice is to use an artist employed by the shop, assuming they have one. If that is your preference, you need to look for a shop that employs a talented artist who can draw a design to meet your requirements.

The above list gives you some direction when looking for an embroidery shop. It is not all-inclusive, but the list provides direction.