FAQ

A custom order is a collaborative process between the artist and patron. First, read the entire "Customs" section to familiarize yourself with that process and to get an idea of time and associated costs. Then drop me a line through the Contact form at the bottom of every page, or send me an email: elise@fineworkcustoms.com

There is up front time and cost associated with every project. The deposit covers those expenditures.

No. The custom order process starts off as a conversation. Once we have agreed upon the project and price, you have approved final artwork and paid the deposit, a lot of work has already happened and supplies have been ordered. Please be sure to carefully consider every step of the process. Deposits are non-refundable.

All patches are stitched on scrim felt (20% wool, 80% rayon/cotton) using Madeira Burmilana thread (50% wool, 50% acrylic).

I wouldn't advise it. Because of the high wool content, and general nature of embroidery, the least amount of washing done (or ideally, none), the better! So choose which garment you wish to adhere your patch to wisely and understand that every wash will change the look and nature of the patch.

No. Patches are stitched on scrim felt. Unlike the thin, soft craft felt sold at hobby stores, scrim felt is stiff, dense, and heavy-duty enough to be able to withstand being stabbed by a thick, hooked needle thousands of times. Patches are meant to be securely stitched to garments with a sewing machine straight stitch. If you do not have a sewing machine, a local tailor would be able to. Patches can be hand stitched, but I wouldn't advise it unless you are confident in your level of skill and patience and own a thimble. Use button and craft thread and a sturdy, sharp needle. I have had varying degrees of success with iron-on adhesive sheets. They work best with smaller patches and I would be happy to provide a cut amount to fit your patch. Just ask! I have also had success with fabric glue. I personally use Aleene's Fabric Fusion, which is permanent, flexible, and clear. It can be purchased at most craft stores or on Amazon.

I use two different types of Madeira thread: Burmilana and BurmilanaCo. Burmilana is a blend of 50% natural wool and 50% acrylic for durability. Its thick, soft texture produces a hand-embroidered look. It is Oeko-Tex® certified to be free from harmful substances. There are 146 colors to choose from. I primarily use this thread to stitch jackets and outerwear. BurmilanaCo is a blend of 50% natural cotton and 50% acrylic for durability. It is very soft and cool due to the high cotton content. It is Oeko-Tex® certified to be free from harmful substances. There are 72 colors to choose from. I primarily use this thread to stitch shirts and dresses.

Garments embroidered with Burmilana (50% wool, 50% acrylic) thread: Because of the high wool content, at-home laundering is not recommended, therefore I primarily use this thread to stitch onto garments that do not require frequent washings, such as jackets and outerwear. Understand that every wash will change the look and nature of the embroidery. Washing instructions for Madeira Burmilana thread from the manufacturer: Articles embroidered with Burmilana are best washed at 40C. Choose the delicate cycle and use special wool detergents. Do not use any detergent containing bleaching agents such as peroxide, chlorine, or optical brighteners as discoloration may result. Air dry flat. Iron from the reverse side only or place between cloth. Garments embroidered with BurmilanaCo (50% cotton, 50% acrylic) thread: Primarily shirts, dresses, tunics, etc. Most of these garments have been pre-washed and dried. Please read individual item listings as they will contain fiber content information. These items should be safe for regular washing if you follow the thread manufacturer’s direction. Washing instructions for Madeira BurmilanaCo thread from the manufacturer: Articles embroidered with BurmilanaCo are best washed cold. Choose the normal cycle. Do not use any detergent containing bleaching agents such as peroxide, chlorine, or optical brighteners as discoloration may result. Iron flat.

Maybe? Madeira Burmilana comes in 146 colors. Madeira BurmilanaCo comes in 72 colors. Madeira offers a Pantone Color Match on their website: https://www.madeirausa.com/pantone-color-match/

You can ask, and we can talk about it, but probably not. Unlike computer automated zig-zag embroidery which can basically run unattended, chainstitch embroidery is all done by me, by hand, one at a time. Each patch takes the same amount of completely devoted attention and time. If you are a very cool maker, artist, builder, fabricator, designer, fashion label, etc., and you would like to bulk order some custom patches or embroidered garments that you intend to resell in your own website or shop, and this partnership would expand my reach, let's talk.

All sales are final. Please read product descriptions and carefully look at all the photos provided. Ask any questions you might have prior to purchase. If an item arrives damaged from transit, please contact me immediately: elise@fineworkcustoms.com