One of the most common questions we receive at NoDak Threads is:
“Can I bring my own item for embroidery?”
In most cases, the answer is yes.
Many customers already own the jacket, hoodie, hat, bag, blanket, or work shirt they want personalized. Others have a favorite brand or style they prefer and would like custom embroidery added to it.
We’re happy to evaluate customer-supplied items and determine whether they’re a good candidate for embroidery.
Why Customers Bring Their Own Items
There are many reasons someone may choose to provide their own garment.
Some customers:
- Already own the item
- Have a favorite brand or style
- Need embroidery added to company-issued apparel
- Want to personalize a gift
- Have a sentimental item they’d like customized
- Need matching embroidery added to existing apparel
Customer-supplied garments are often a great option when you already have exactly what you want.
Common Items We Embroider
Many customer-provided items work very well for embroidery, including:
- Jackets
- Hoodies
- Polo shirts
- Work shirts
- Hats and caps
- Tote bags
- Backpacks
- Blankets
- Aprons
- Uniforms
If you’re unsure whether an item can be embroidered, simply bring it in and we’ll take a look.
Some Items Require Special Handling
Not all garments are constructed the same way.
Certain items may require additional preparation or have limitations on placement.
Examples include:
- Jacket linings
- Heavy insulated coats
- Small pockets
- Sleeves with limited access
- Finished pant legs
- Thick seams or layered materials
In some situations, seams may need to be opened and re-stitched to access the embroidery location properly.
We’ll discuss any special considerations before beginning production.
Understanding Customer-Supplied Garment Risks
While we take every reasonable precaution to protect your items, embroidery involves needles, thread, stabilizers, heat, and machinery.
Because we did not manufacture the garment and replacement items may not always be available, customer-supplied garments are embroidered at the customer’s risk.
This is standard practice throughout the embroidery industry.
We inspect items before production and communicate any concerns we identify.
Sometimes Purchasing Through NoDak Threads Makes Sense
There are situations where ordering garments through NoDak Threads may be the better option.
Benefits can include:
- Consistent sizing
- Matching garment colors
- Verified embroidery compatibility
- Simplified ordering
- Coordinated decoration across multiple items
We’ll help determine which option makes the most sense for your project.
Local Service and Personal Attention
As a locally owned business in Jamestown, North Dakota, we enjoy working directly with customers to find the best solution for their needs.
Whether you’re bringing in a single jacket or outfitting an entire team, we’ll take the time to review your project and answer your questions.
Have an Item You’d Like Personalized?
Bring it by and let’s take a look.
We’ll evaluate the garment, discuss placement options, review your artwork, and recommend the best approach for achieving a professional result.
Ready to start your project?
Whether you need custom embroidery, heat transfer, UV printing, laser engraving, or help bringing an idea to life, NoDak Threads is here to help.
Located in Jamestown, North Dakota, we specialize in quality custom products, friendly service, and projects of all sizes.
Contact us today to discuss your next project.