Frequently asked questions

Do you charge a set-up fee?

No. The design, size and order quantity determine the price. The more you get, the cheaper it is. A repeat price will apply for future orders.

Is a single colour logo cheaper than a multicolour logo?

No. Our prices are based on the design, size and stitches, not the colours used.

Is embroidery more expensive than screenprinting?

There is a perception that embroidery will be more expensive than screenprinting, but that's not always the case. It's best to email through your logo, and we'll give you a quote.

Do you do screenprinting as well?

No, we don't do screenprinting. However, we work with a local screen printer so that we can be your one-stop-shop for all your uniform needs.

Is there a minimum order?

No. We will do one item for you if that's all you need.

What type of file do you need?

We can work from any high-resolution file (except photoshop files). Don't reduce the file to the size you'd like the embroidery to be, as this reduces the quality of the image. Our digitiser will reduce it to the correct size when they're creating the embroidery design.

What is a digitiser?

A digitiser is an embroidery designer. They take your design, import it into our specialist software and create the embroidery design.

I already have a design; why do you need to redesign it?

We need to redesign it in a format that our embroidery machines will understand. Just like a hand embroiderer, our digitiser needs to tell the computer/machine where to put each stitch, what colour to use, the density of stitches and so on. It's a very complex job and takes years of training to master.

Do you do your own digitising?

Yes! We have one of the most talented digitisers in New Zealand working for us.

How do we choose the right colour?

You can call into our office, and we'll show you our range of colours, or you can supply your Pantone colours, and we will match it to our threads.

What is a Pantone number?

When we talk about Pantone numbers, we are referring to the Pantone Matching System. There is a universal book of over a thousand colours used all over the world. It helps designers and embroiderers like us identify and match colours.

What's the smallest size lettering you can embroider?

Minimum font size depends on the style of the font. Ideally, letters should be about 5-6mm high to ensure you can read the font; however, a plain block can go down as small as 3mm. Anything smaller than that is hard to read.

How long does it take?

We aim to have your order ready within ten working days.

What if I need it sooner?

We understand that sometimes you have a last-minute job, or you just completely forgot. If you have an event or special occasion that you need work done for, give us a call, and we'll see what we can do for you.

What about garments? Do you supply those as well?

Absolutely! You can choose from our extensive range of clothing. Find our suppliers and catalogues here.

Can I get sample garments to try on?

Yes, we encourage it. We have a wide range of clothing we can supply, and our showroom can't fit it all in. We help you work out the size you'll need and order it for you to try on.

Is the clothing you supply true to size?

Yes and no. In New Zealand, there are no regulations to say sizes have to be specific measurements. We always recommend trying on the garment. We can exchange it if it's the wrong fit, but items can't be returned after embroidery.

Can I supply my own clothing?

Yes, of course. We have found that there are some fabrics from companies like Torpedo 7 and Kathmandu that tear during embroidery. As the needle penetrates the material, it pulls the cloth. If we think there is a risk of this happening, we will let you know, and we'll do one item to test it out before completing the rest of the order.

Have you really been around since 1878?

Yes! We are very proud to be one of the oldest businesses in Palmerston North, if not New Zealand and still run by the original Robert family.