Computerized Embroidery is an excellent technique to create crisp and detailed artwork on garments, adding both depth and texture to fabrics. This sturdy effect not only looks elegant but also feels comfortable. At Plakads, we specialize in computerized embroidery & have been doing the same for several years this allows us to not only make full use of our capacity of 1000 PCs / Daily but also allows us to provide low MOQ Embroideries of 80-100 pieces per design efficiently.
You can learn more about our embroidery services on our embroidery page. This post is designed to help customers with small embroidery lots (ranging between 80-250 pieces per design) craft their orders clearly and share them with us to ensure seamless understanding and timely deliveries.
While we embrace creativity with "The Sky is the Limit" in terms of design possibilities, for small embroidery orders (80-250 pieces per design), the following limitations apply:
- Maximum Design Width: 10.5 inches (or 11.5 inches in height). Please ensure the size of one embroidery fits within these dimensions.
- Maximum Colors: One design can include up to 8 colors. For simplicity, we recommend 1-6 colors.
- Tech-Pack Support: While our design team is available to support your vision, providing an accurate tech pack and design files ensures timely delivery. Follow the norms described below, and contact your salesperson if you have any questions not addressed here.
- Design Artwork: Submit high-resolution PNG artwork. This ensures the DST file (required for embroidery machines) is created accurately. We do not store or edit your artwork, so accuracy is critical.
How does Plakads tackle Embroideries?
Computerized embroidery is an automated process where the machine handles the embroidery, and manual input is limited to placement and thread color selection. This makes the tech pack and artwork extremely important.
- Our design team checks the tech pack and artwork, working with the sales team to finalize costs and details.
- Artwork is converted into a DST file, the required format for embroidery machines.
- We create a single-piece sample for approval, which is either physically shipped or shared via video call for quick confirmation.
- After approval, the fabric cuttings are embroidered (we embroider on cuttings, not finished pieces).
- The embroidered pieces are stitched and finished as discussed.
What Is a Tech Pack?
A tech pack is like a detailed instruction sheet that tells us exactly how you want your embroidery to look. It includes design specifications, placement, colors, and instructions. Think of it as a blueprint that ensures your order is accurate and consistent.
A tech pack helps avoid misunderstandings and errors by providing a clear guide for the embroidery process. It ensures:
- Designs are placed correctly on garments.
- Colors match your specifications.
- Measurements and quantities are accurate.
How to Create a Tech Pack
Our recommended software for creating & editing tech-packs for embroideries is Canva. However, we also have templates in Adobe Photoshop or Goggle Slides for those who are unable to use Canva. For the Adobe Photoshop or Google Slides version, ask our sales team for the same. You can create a copy of the Canva Tech Pack by clicking the link below:
Below is a detailed section by section overview of the components of the standard embroidery tech-pack. Feel free to ask our sales team in case you have any difficulty in the same. Below is a reference photo of our tech-pack.
Top Section
This section contains summary details about the type of order, garment type, color & design brief. All details in the section are mandatory & do not edit or change the format of anything including the logo placed on the top left corner.
- ID: Used for internal tracking. Do not change or remove, will be filled by our team.
- Garment: Specify the type and material details. You can ask the sales team as to the exact code which needs to be placed here.
- Color: Indicate the garment’s color. Each tech pack is for one type of garment in one color. For example, if you want the same design on a dark blue t-shirt and a black t-shirt, you need two separate tech packs. You can easily duplicate a tech pack in Canva and update it for different colors or details.
- Brief: A short description of the design requirements, like "Front and back embroidery."
Middle Section
This section contains the actual design mock-up & the PNGs which should be embroidered along with their width; placement & other details.
- Left Side: Add a mock-up of the garment. It is best if the mock-up matches the garment’s color. Be specific with the placement; in case you want it to be in a specific place, mention the gap (in inches) with relation to fixed parts of the garment.
- Right Side: Include PNG designs with clear measurements, such as width or height. Please do not mention both height & width; but rather only one
Bottom Section
This section contains optional metadata & crucial order details.
- Notes: Add extra details if needed. Leave blank if there’s nothing more to add, as unnecessary text (information already in display) can lead to confusion.
- Size Distribution: Write the quantities for each size. Make sure the total matches the sum of the size distribution.
- Thread Colors: List up to 8 thread colors for the design. The colour code or the thread number is manually added by our design team, which will contact you and verify the same, you just need to select the closest shade in the box.
How to Share Your Artwork?
Even though the artwork is added on the right side of the tech pack for reference, it is necessary to separately email the sales team the artwork in a high-quality PNG format. This ensures the best results during the embroidery process.
To maintain consistency and make identification easier, please follow this naming convention for your file:
<DesignName><Width:XYin>.PNGBy following the steps outlined above and referring to the example tech pack, you can ensure that your embroidery orders are handled with precision and efficiency. A clear and well-prepared tech pack saves time, avoids misunderstandings, and helps us deliver high-quality results tailored to your needs.
We are here to assist you every step of the way. Should you have any questions or require support, feel free to reach out to our sales team.