Washing Instructions
Turn garments inside out before washing to protect the embroidered design from friction and snagging. Use cold or lukewarm water (70°F or below) to prevent thread colors from bleeding or fading. Select a gentle or delicate cycle on your washing machine, or hand wash for particularly delicate pieces. Use mild, phosphate-free detergent and avoid bleach or fabric softeners, which can damage threads and cause discoloration.
Drying Guidelines
Air dry embroidered items when possible by laying them flat on a clean towel or hanging them away from direct sunlight. If using a dryer, choose a low heat setting and remove items while slightly damp to prevent excessive shrinkage and thread damage. Never wring out embroidered garments, as this can distort both the fabric and the stitching.
Ironing and Pressing
Always iron embroidered garments from the reverse side to protect the raised threads. Place a clean cloth or pressing cloth between the iron and the embroidery if you must iron from the front. Use a low to medium heat setting appropriate for the base fabric, and avoid pressing directly on metallic threads, which can melt or lose their luster. For raised embroidery designs, consider using a thick towel underneath to preserve the dimensional quality of the stitches.
Storage Recommendations
Store embroidered items in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent fading. Hang garments on padded hangers to maintain shape, or fold carefully with acid-free tissue paper between folds to prevent creasing on the embroidery. Keep items in breathable garment bags rather than plastic, which can trap moisture and cause mildew.
Special Care for Appliqué Embroidery
Appliqué pieces require extra attention since they involve additional fabric layers that may have different care requirements than the base garment. Check the edges of appliqué pieces regularly for lifting or fraying, and address any loose areas promptly to prevent further damage. When washing, be particularly gentle around appliqué edges where stitching may be more vulnerable to snagging.
For items with raw-edge appliqué, expect some fraying as part of the design's character, but trim any excessive loose threads carefully with sharp scissors. Fusible appliqué may require lower washing temperatures to maintain the adhesive bond between layers. If an appliqué piece begins to lift, avoid pulling on it – instead, consult a professional for repair or carefully re-secure with matching thread.
When ironing appliquéd items, be aware that different fabrics in the appliqué may require different heat settings. Always use the lowest effective temperature and work from the reverse side when possible. For dimensional or padded appliqué, avoid pressing flat – instead, use steam from a distance to refresh the fabric without crushing the design.
Maintaining Your Investment
The longevity and beauty of your embroidered garments depend on following proper care instructions. As custom embroidered pieces require specific handling, we encourage customers to review and follow all care guidelines provided. Please note that damage resulting from improper washing, drying, ironing, or storage falls outside our standard warranty coverage, and we cannot offer refunds or replacements for items affected by incorrect care practices.
Repair Services Available
We understand that accidents happen, and we're here to help when possible. If your embroidered item has experienced damage, we may be able to repair or restore it for an additional fee. Repair services are assessed on a case-by-case basis, depending on the extent and type of damage. Common repairs include re-securing loose threads, reinforcing appliqué edges, and addressing minor thread breaks. Please contact us with photos of the damaged area for a repair quote.
Ensuring Long-Term Quality
Your embroidered pieces are crafted with quality materials and professional techniques designed to last for years with proper care. By following the care instructions provided, you'll protect your investment and keep your embroidered items looking their best. When in doubt about care methods, we recommend professional cleaning or reaching out to us for guidance before proceeding. Remember that preventative care is always more effective and economical than repair or replacement.
When to Seek Professional Care
Consider professional cleaning for garments with extensive embroidery coverage, vintage or heirloom pieces, items with metallic threads or delicate materials like silk, or any embroidered formal wear such as wedding dresses or ceremonial garments. If you notice any significant damage to the embroidery, consult a textile restoration specialist rather than attempting repairs yourself.