Impressions - April 2022 - 35

If you need a large quantity, like 10,000 or more patches,
look for a supplier who has the experience and equipment.
Commonly Asked Questions
The two most frequently asked questions usually involve how much
you can order and how fast it can be delivered. The answers to these
questions usually can be found by visiting a reputable supplier's website.
Be aware of the trade-offs when you focus on price as the most
important criterion for choosing a supplier. Of course, the lowest
prices will come from offshore vendors or domestic brokers who use
offshore companies. Make sure they can meet your deadline and -
if you don't have a history with them - trust them to make it on
time. This may be especially critical when shortages are affecting all
companies globally.
Another downside will be fewer options and less flexibility. If you
want anything out of the norm, you may find they're not equipped to
handle it. You also may find language barriers and difficulty getting
a response to a phone call or email. Also, fill-ins or rush orders aren't
likely to happen.
Price and turnaround time aren't the only two factors you should
consider when choosing a patch supplier. You should investigate whether
the company specializes in emblem manufacturing or is an embroidery
house that does it occasionally, with direct embroidery as a core
strength. Logically, you'll receive better quality and quicker service
from a company that produces patches as its main service. It also will
be better equipped to handle special requests, rush orders, greater customization
and larger quantities.
An embroidered-patch minimum typically starts at 25 pieces. In
addition to the per-patch cost, expect to pay for art setup and a preproduction
sample. Also, be prepared to pay an additional charge for
a design with more than six colors, metallic thread or a non-stocked,
custom thread color. It's customary for your supplier to email you with
a digital preproduction sample for approval.
Regarding Referrals
If you request referrals, ask the following
questions:
1. Do you manufacture your own products,
or are you an agent or broker?
2. Do you have certifications such as the
Fai Labor Association (FLA) or International
Organization for Standardization
(ISO)?
3. Are materials eco-friendly and safe?
Evaluating Quality
Investigate whether prospective suppliers have done designs in the
past that are similar to what your artwork looks like. If you request a
sample based off your art, the first step is seeing how well the original
art was replicated. Notice how the supplier handled small details in
the design and if any layering was used. For example, were there too
many or too few stitches to get the desired effect?
Also, inspect the emblem's trim and finish. Stitching should be even
and consistent, with no loose threads, skipped stitches or looping. All
design elements should be in registration with nothing crooked or
off-center.
Inspection at the end of a run should be done by an expert who
APRIL 2022
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Impressions - April 2022

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